"It is to see if arrangements can be made so as to prevent war," I replied.
"But we do not want to go to war with any one," said the Mudir. "Russia wishes to go to war with us."
"Why is the Conference not held at St. Petersburg?" asked another of the visitors.
"Because Russia is strong and we are weak—the other powers are afraid of Russia," said the Cadi.
"Do Englishmen like Russia?" inquired the Mudir.
"Some do, and some do not," I replied.
"Do you?"
"I like the people, but do not like the government."
"Why?"
"Because it is a despotic form of government, and in my opinion all despotisms are bad."