The Turks are believed to be seriously disturbed about their
position in Yemen. Sana has fallen, and the leaders of insurrection speak of claiming autonomy for Yemen, subject to the payment of that portion of its revenue which reaches Constantinople. Large reinforcements are ordered, but it is said the Asiatic recruits will not face the Arabs, while the European regiments suffer terribly from the climate. The Divan, nevertheless, will fight hard for Yemen, for if it is detached from their Empire Mecca may revolt, and then the claim of the Sultan to the Khalifate may be attacked by the greatest Mohammedan Doctors. No explanation is offered of the new discontent of the Arabs, who, however, have always been more or less impatient under the Turkish yoke, and who are probably plundered for the benefit of a depleted Treasury. Three things stir an Arab to resistance,—an insult to the Faith, a wound to his honour, and a new demand for a payment in cash.
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