It is quite clear that observers in Constantinople expect a
Mussulman movement for the deposition of the Sultan. The Mussulman populace everywhere is furiously irritated, it is believed that the garrison shares the excitement, and respect- able Mussulmans are giving way to one of those impulses of free speech which in Asia mean that armed revolt is very near at hand. The idea seems to be that the Sultan's timidity, with its consequences, espionage and cruelty, has worn out Mussulman patience, and that he may be seized or assas- sinated by persons who will proclaim a younger brother. Some of the reporters even talk about a change of dynasty, but since Ibrahim of Egypt died there has been no great Turk who has fixed the eyes of the Mussulman world. We think, on the evidence, that the deposition or death of the Sultan is more than probable, but that the deposition of the House is scarcely within the range of calculation. Ifahmond the Terrible crushed a successful rebellion single- handed and in civil dress, simply by executing a brother or uncle, and riding out among the angry Janissaries, "last of the race of Othman," and the superstitious feeling which cowed the soldiers then will influence them now. The native capitalists, who know what is passing, are selling all things ; and to judge by the symptoms alone, there should be stirring news before the month ends. On the other hand, Abdul Hamid is one of the keenest of mankind, and may have a strong servant in reserve. Suppose, in his despair, be declares war on Great Britain ? We should not have many friends.
