July 14, 1840.
“I observe with pain and regret that a general conflagration began in the mountains a few hours after the march of the troops from this place. Without at all entering into the question of whether the inhabitants of Lebanon are right or wrong in rising in favour of the Sultan, I do not conceive that the generals of the Pacha of Egypt can be justified in carrying on the war against them in the barbarous manner I now see in operation.
“I write to you, Sir, as an Egyptian admiral, and the officer holding the highest office now in Beyrout, to request you will immediately communicate to his Highness Abbas Pacha the horror I feel at witnessing such acts of useless barbarity, which must lead to the destruction of thousands of women and children, who can take no part in the insurrection.
“His Highness Abbas Pacha may rest assured that the five great Powers of Europe, who are now treating the Eastern question, will not view with satisfaction the manner he has adopted of putting down the insurrection.
“I have the honour to remain,
“Your obedient servant,
“Charles Napier.”
“To the Rear-Admiral
Commanding the Egyptian squadron at Beyrout.”
Souliman’s Reply, translated from the Arabic.