And therefore, it seems to me, we
should avail ourselves of this favorable moment when they are
awaiting foreign aid. They must be overwhelmed, never to rise
again."
"How wise your words, highness! Overwhelmed they must be for all
time, in order that you alone may rule, and that the sultan at
Stamboul may look with admiration upon him who has restored to the
old rulers of Egypt the power of former days. This great work is
reserved for you, Cousrouf Pacha, and your most obedient and devoted
servant, Mohammed Ali, will consider himself highly honored, if
permitted to aid you in this great cause."
"I count on you," replied the pacha, inclining his head graciously.
"I know your devotion and zeal in my service, and therefore do I
advise with you in all my plans, and speak to you as to my other
self. To proceed: The Mameluke beys who applied to England and
France also addressed a letter to me at the same time. In this
letter they request me to conclude with them an armistice of five
months' duration, in order that they may address themselves to the
sultan at Constantinople, to settle, with the assistance of the
English and French ambassadors there, the terms of a final treaty of
peace. What do you think our answer to the demand of these Mameluke
beys should be, Mohammed? Shall we consent to this armistice? Give
me your views without reserve. What is your opinion?"
"I think, highness, that it would be folly to grant this armistice.
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