After a few days of reflection, the Porte informed the Russian ambassador that Turkey had decided not to make any changes in her navy for the present.
Between them, Austria and Russia have succeeded in crushing the Sultan's ambition for the present.
These are, however, not all of Abdul Hamid's troubles.
Crete, which he had begun to regard as his rightful property, has once more become a thorn in his side.
Confident of his power, he has been assuming a haughty tone with the Greek ambassador sent to settle the treaty, and insisted that he accept the terms as they were without venturing on any changes. He has also kept his soldiers in Crete, and sent a Turk as governor of the island despite the protests of the Powers.
He has, in fact, been doing pretty much as he pleased, believing that Europe was afraid of him, and that he was master of the situation.
Now the Powers have combined to teach him the difference. They have joined together, and in round terms bidden him obey them or take the consequences.
You remember that home rule was promised to Crete, and that (after the peace negotiations were signed) the Sultan announced that he would see about the reforms later.