“Charles Napier.”
“To the Emir Bechir Cassim.”
The Grand Prince sent no answer, but a few days after, his surgeon came on board, and gave me to understand that as soon as the Turkish troops landed the Emir would declare for the Sultan; the Emir Bechir Cassim sent a favourable reply, but wavered till he could see what turn affairs were likely to take.
Copy of a letter received from the Emir
Bechir Cassim.
“August 14, 1840.
“After the customary compliments to his Excellency Commodore Napier.
“I have had the honour to receive your commands, and I have to pray to the Almighty to preserve to eternity your Government and your Excellency.
“I have had the honour to receive the Proclamation you were pleased to send me, containing the decision of the four great Powers, to which I readily submit. I am prepared to render instantly all the services that may be required of me, while I consider the opportunity afforded me as a peculiar favour from God. I am waiting only for supreme orders to commence immediately acting accordingly with diligence, when I will also follow all your commands. I hope to be able to prove to you the sincerity of my declarations. You have forwarded to us your Proclamation through Mr. Wood; we will follow your instructions thereon.
“I have requested the bearer of the present to express to you my sentiments verbally, and I hope that, with your assistance, we shall obtain peace, tranquillity, and liberty.