The thing was done, however, and with that philosophy of resignation to a fact in which no nation can rival his own, he muttered his polite congratulations on the event, and declared that the dearest wish of his heart was now accomplished.
‘We had half begun to believe you had abandoned us, Mr. Atlee,’ said he. ‘When England commits her interests to inferior men, she usually means to imply that they are worth nothing better. I am rejoiced to see that we are, at last, awakened from this delusion. With his Excellency Lord Danesbury here, we shall be soon once more where we have been.’
‘Your fleet is in effective condition, well armed, and well disciplined?’
‘All, all,’ smiled the Pasha.
‘The army reformed, the artillery supplied with the most efficient guns, and officers of European services encouraged to join your staff?’
‘All.’
‘Wise economies in your financial matters, close supervision in the collection of the revenue, and searching inquiries where abuses exist?’
‘All.’
‘Especial care that the administration of justice should be beyond even the malevolence of distrust, that men of station and influence should be clear-handed and honourable, not a taint of unfairness to attach to them?’
‘Be it all so,’ ejaculated the Pasha blandly.