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One point to which I have alluded in former despatches is an important one. The present Arab movement has been given a religious character by the fact of a Christian army being opposed to it. In all documents which have been found, whether letters or proclamations, the most persuasive arguments used to stir up the people were bearing on this point. The defeat of the ill-fated expedition under Hicks Pasha was the first real start of Mohammed Achmet's successes; and, though General Gordon had an extraordinary influence with the Soudanese, yet the fact of his being a Christian added strength to the so-called Mahdi's cause. What was originally merely a rebellion against an unpopular Government became a religious war; the longer the forces opposed to the Soudanese remain composed of Christians, the longer the Emirs who govern the Soudan will be able to appeal to the religious feelings of the people.
It appears, therefore, advisable to substitute by degrees a purely Mahommedan power to contend with this movement, thereby weakening the power of appeal to religious feelings.
It is, therefore, with this object in view that beg to submit for your considera- tion the proposals made by Djawdat Bey, as a means by which a solution of the question may be found.
In considering Djawdat Bey's proposals, General Stephenson is of opinion that the consequences of a reverse would be a considerable addition of guns, arms, and ammunition to the enemy. On the other hand, Djawdat is very confident of success, and considers that the fact of the reoccupation of Dongola would decrease the enemy's power to such an extent as to render improbable any chance of a reverse. Generals Stephenson and Grenfell consider that these possible disadvantages are outweighed by the probable advantages which would be gained by Egypt.
In the event of Djawdat Bey suffering a defeat, the number of guns and armis, and the amount of ammunition the enemy would gain, would not be of very great importance; for, at the present moment, in Khartoum and the Soudan the number of guns, &c., that the enemy possess is enormous, and such an addition as Djawdat Bey's force would provide would be unimportant.
I have alluded to the question of responsibility, and given the opinions of Generals Stephenson and Grenfell on the subject; this is a point which must be very carefully considered, and most clearly defined.
I do not propose to enter into the details of the force which Djawdat Bey proposes to raise, except to point out that he requires no assistance from English officers; that he names his own officers, who were mostly formerly employed in the Soudan; and that the rank and file present no difficulties in raising. The Egyptian contingent is the most difficult point; for General Grenfell would be adverse to giving him men from the army; such a proceeding would involve responsibility on the Govern- ment. But a call might be made for volunteers, and by offering a high rate of pay, and fixing the term of service, the requisite number of Egyptians might be raised.
In the opinion of the best authorities, it is of paramount importance to re- establish the Mahommedan influence in Upper Egypt. If our intentions wero to remain permanently in the country, the question would be easily dealt with. But as our occupation is temporary, some steps should be taken which will permit of our eventual withdrawal without causing danger and anxiety to Egypt.
A gradual replacement of English troops by natives, and a re-establishment of a Government in Dongola by such means as I herewith submit to you, are the surest and quickest means whereby the peace and security of the Egyptian frontier can bo obtained.
I have, &c.
(Signed)
E. J. M. STUART WORTLEY.
Inclosure 2 in No. 4.
Proposal of Djawdat Bey, ex-Vakeel of the Mudiriate of Dongola.
1. TO raise a force of 2,500 blacks and 1,500 Egyptians.
2. 1,000 Turkish Bashi-Bazouks and blacks for Camel Corps.
3. 1 (9 c. m.) Krupp guns and 8 mountain guns-7-pounders.
4. 4 Gardner guns.
5. 2 armed steamers.
6. Railway to be extended to Mograkeh, native labour to be furnished from the province.
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