Evening star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 1878-04-27
The measure adopted by Lord Reaconsfield

The measure adopted by Lord BeacOnsfeld
OF drawing troops from India for European
service, has caused a sensation which is con-
Siderably increased by the mystery connected
with the destination of these forces. Accord
ing to one surmise they go for the present to
Egypt. The question of the control of this
nation can never be matter of Indifference
10 England. Whoever possesses it can pre-
vent or render difficult the communication of
all other nations with India. Egypt, though it
rejOices in an admirable climate, a fertile soil
and a numerous, gentle and dOcile people,
seems to be under ban il is, as of Old 1.-THE
house of bondage" Though it has obtained
quasi independence of the Sultan at Constan-
tinOple, it is ruled by deSpOtic prince, who In
in his turn is governed by a foreign commits
sion and foreign judicial tribunal. Though
European jealousieS have insured the nations
existence they have consumed its substance.
England, France, Italy and Russia take
lively interest in the manner of conducting its
affairs, and commissions composed of their
representatives are we'll paid by the Khedive
to limit his power and pass upon his actions.
Before the battle of Sedan. France was most
influential with the vicerOys; since then, the
star of England has arisen Though the debt
with which the nation is Saddled is
large, Egypt'S resources are so great, the
exports being twice the imports in value. that
it could readily meet its liabilities if the people
were independent or under the protection of
q single power. The future of the nation is
higl ly uncertain-it is ObScured in deeper than
Egg 'pti N darkness. The decision of her des-
tiny re IS largely with England. That nation
wishes the freedom of the SueZ canal for her
own vessels and blockade of all other vessels
in time of war. To effect this she must con-
troll Egypt. The territory in question might
De SelZed and held as the price of her consent
10 the treaty OF San StefanO. But this step
would mOrtally offend France whose interests
are largely affected by the fate of Egypt and
would, in all probability, when France has
recovered her strength. result in hostile col
IlslOn between the two nations. Events have
been bringing England and France in init
mate relations as opposed to Russia and Ger
many; and unless il shall be found to BE- N Gees
Sary, England is unwilling TO make an enemy
OF well disposed and powerful friend
JOINT occupation with France would be con
trary to the recent French policy of absolute
non intervention. and would be liable to other
objections from the English standpoint The
plan OF making Egypt independent is open to
the criticism that she cannot be made indie
pendent She would fall into some ones hands
perhaps RuSsia'S, and England shudderS at
the Thought. Matters cannot be permitted to
remain as they are, for the Sultan rules Egypt,
and the Car of Russia rules the Sultan
Viewed in any light the question proposed
Tor England's decision is pulling one.
Whether or not the proposed movement of
Indian troops indicates that a conclusion in
this matter has been reached. the time cannot
be long delayed when the Egyptian will know
his master.