Every one is wondering whether these bold words of Mr. Gladstone will have an effect on the situation.
The so-called Concert of the Powers does not seem to exist any longer. The six powers are divided among themselves. Great Britain and Italy hold together in not wanting harsh measures used with Greece; Germany and Russia think force ought to be used, and France and Austria are undecided.
Some of the foreign papers are saying that it is quite impossible for the Powers ever to come to an understanding.
Some people are thinking that Mr. Gladstone's letter has already had an effect, for a private telegram from Paris states that the Sultan of Turkey has sent word to the Powers that he is willing to let King George of Greece occupy the island of Crete, and govern it, provided that he pays tribute for it.
This is so exactly Mr. Gladstone's suggestion, that, if the report is true, the Sultan would seem to have been influenced by him.
Mr. Gladstone in his letter showed clearly how such an arrangement would be of benefit to all concerned, and spoke of the island of Cyprus as an example. Cyprus was once under the rule of Turkey, but is now governed by the Queen of England, and pays a tribute to Turkey.
It is to be hoped that this telegram is true, but we must remember that it is only news, and not history, and therefore we must be quite prepared to have it contradicted next week.
The blockade of Crete is now complete. No ships are allowed to enter the ports that bring supplies to the Cretans or Greeks.
But the Greeks are not submitting tamely to the blockade.
There are two forts that guard the entrance to Canea, and both of them are being vigorously besieged by the insurgents, with the intention of establishing a blockade of Canea on the landward side, and so keeping the troops of the Powers enclosed where they can do little harm.