Just as we are going to press, we receive the
news that Arabi has made overtures for peace, and proposes retir- ing to a Syrian monastery, with his full rank and pay, and similar conditions for nine of his colleagues. The news is not officially confirmed, but the Government believe that there is some foundation for it. If it be true, it probably means that the Court at Constantinople is frightened at our preparations, and has inspired Arabi—more or less their tool throughout—with this determination, hoping to hold him in reserve for future operations of a like kind. Of course, what has been done cannot be passed over in this easy manner. Arabi and his army should surrender at discretion, nor would it be right to pass over the ringleaders without severe punishment. The- Court at Constantinople must not be allowed to play at pleasure -with such very dangerous tools as these,
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