The text of the letter addressed by the Sultan to
the Viceroy of Egypt has been published. It bears date the 3rd August. It is a dignified but most severe reprimand from a sovereign to his vassal. The Viceroy is reminded that " with the exception of a few privileges established in her favour, Egypt differs in nothing from other provinces of the Empire ;" that he has no right to open direct negotiations with other powers ; that his assumptions can no longer be tolerated ; and that his invitations to the Sovereigns to witness the opening of the Suez Canal are wanting in considera- tion for them and respect for his own master. He is further for- bidden to buy ironclads and munitions of war, reminded that his troops were withdrawn from Crete just when they were wanted there, censured for imposing such incalculable burdens on the pre- sent and future of Egypt, informed that he is a subject, advised that luxury follows civilization but does not produce it, and warned that if he does not amend his ways the Sultan will enforce the stipulations of the finnan of 1841. The Viceroy, it is said, is aware that he had gone too far, and has replied in the most con- ciliatory tone. He is wise. Among the many prerogatives of the Caliphate, the right to pass a secret sentence of death is not the least valued or effective.
