View PDF version of this page

her from absolute dissolution, and the Protectorate of-Asia Minor was a step of political audacity in hea favour that surprised the world. This extraordinary] offer of material aid has been met by the same want] of confidence that has marked the decline of thé Turkish Empire ; the only extra interference in Asia Minor has been the appointment of a few additional British consuls. These gentlemen will report long lists of abuses, and the general mal-administration of the Turkish officials ; they will be hatêli accordingly,! and being absolutely powerless for good, they willv simply keep the Foreign Office informed of what was?J thoroughly well known before. Remonstrances upon*: our part will be made to the Porte, who will deny the accuracy of the consular reports, and ultimately* a special commission will be sent out, which will prove their correctness ; the Porte will again promise' amendment, but will not sanction the appointment of British officials. In this old-fashioned course, so thoroughly understood by all who have any knowledge1 of Turkey, the affairs of Asia Minor will be conducted, until revolution shall bring Russia upon the scene at the most favourable opportunity ; and England, who has been thwarted by the Power she has endeavoured to save, will, by the terms of the Convention, be compelled to appear in arms as the defender of the remnant of the Turkish Empire. Common sense would suggest the absolute necessity of special and clearly defined conditions in concluding an alliance with Turkey which may at any moment demand our military interference. If we are bound to assist by force of arms in the. defence of Asia Minor, it is equally necessary that Turkey should be bound to qualify herself for resistance to an attack

View PDF version of this page