29 SEPTEMBER 1877, Page 15

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.

THE CONFEDERATES AND THE TURKS.

[TO TRH EDITOR OF TILE "SPROTATOR.1

Sin„—I see that in your last number you call attention to the curious parallel which exists between the sentiments of a certain class in reference to the Eastern War, and those which the same class used to express with regard to the Civil War in America. It is odd that this should have been, as far as I know, little noticed. The parallel may indeed be carried on through almost the smallest details. Then, as now, we heard that slavery was merely a pre- text for Northern aggression ; that the negro was quite as badly treated at the North as at the South ; that slavery was all he was fit for ; and, most sentimental ground of all for sympathy, that the Southern slaveowner was "such a gentleman." Moreover, would not the success of the "Federal Government imperil British interests ?" Was it not well known that Canada was the real object of the Northern politicians?

It would of course be a monstrous thing to suggest the least comparison between such men as Robert E. Lee or Thomas Jefferson Jackson and the Pashas who hang their own doctors, and speak of the slaughter of their own wounded as a possible contingency ; but after bearing some of the talk that is going about now, one may safely say that the admiration which "society" felt for the Confederate leaders was evoked far more by the badness of the cause for which they fought, than by the heroism which they showed in fighting for it.—I am, Sir, &c., A. J. B.