An attack on the town depended entirely on a movement in the Turkish camp, but they either had not spirit or inclination to throw up their caps and declare for the Sultan; or it is possible the soldiers were kept in ignorance of the proclamation, for though we remained three days in our position no movement took place. I threatened to commence hostilities should the Turkish troops be moved, but in the night they were gradually withdrawn by a gate we could not see, and mingled with the Egyptians.
Towards dark, as I suspected, the removal of the stores from the castles and water side began, and I sent an officer to remonstrate and threaten, and it was with much difficulty I refrained from putting my veto on the proceedings, through the medium of a few 32lb. shot; this could easily have been done; but was it justifiable? I thought not—and most unwillingly made up my mind, unless a fair opportunity offered, to allow the twenty days to expire.
No. 1.
“Sir,
“Great Britain, Austria, Russia and Prussia, have decided that Syria is to be restored to the Sultan. I notify this to you for your guidance. I demand that the Turkish troops be put under my protection, and that the arms be restored to the inhabitants of Mount Lebanon. I am unwilling to shed blood, or destroy the property of the inhabitants of Beyrout, therefore I caution you not to provoke hostilities; you must see, by the position I have taken up, that the town is at my mercy, therefore if you are the cause of uselessly shedding blood the responsibility must rest on your head. Any attempt to move the Turkish troops from their present position will be the signal for hostilities.
“I am, Sir, &c.,
“Chas. Napier.”
“His Excellency Mahmoud Bey, Governor of Beyrout.”
No. 2.
“Sir,