The week has been full of rumours, statements, and denials
about Egypt. The rumours and statements, which are strongly affirmed by correspondents of the Times, and are evidently believed in Vienna, all tend to this—that the British and French Governments are alarmed at the position in Egypt, apprehend- ing either a military revolt, or a direct assertion of authority by the Sultan. Communications have, therefore, passed between the Governments as to concerted action in the event of certain contingencies, and the idea of a joint occupation has so far ad- vanced that the possibility of landing Indian troops and French marines has been discussed. The existence of negotiations is semi-officially denied, as, of course, it would be, until the danger had actually occurred ; but on a careful study of all the reports, we see reason to fear that the plan of joint occupation is by no means off the cards. We have explained elsewhere the reasons for dreading it, and need only add here that Tewfik, who is a Turk, is obviously inclined to play into the Sultan's hands. The fate of the Shereef of Mecca has probably struck him.
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