The Mamelukes would avail themselves of this interval to recruit
their ranks, and would secretly import slaves. They are cunning, and
many resources are open to them. They would make warriors of these
slaves in five months, and they would then be the first to
recommence the war!"
Cousrouf remained silent for a time. "You are a good general in the
field, and a good adviser in the cabinet. I rejoice in your
possession!" said he, with his most gracious manner. "Just as you
think and say, have I determined, and I have informed these insolent
beys that I will not grant them a respite of five months, nor of
five weeks; no, not of five days. I, moreover, informed them that if
they so ardently desired to have peace, and to enjoy peace, they
should submit, and come to Cairo, and live here as Osman Bey Hassan
does, who has hitherto also been a Mameluke chieftain. Further, I
told them that I was ready to treat with them, and, in order to be
rid of this continuous plundering and robbing, I offered to assign
them the province of Esneh, in Upper Egypt, where they might indulge
their propensities to their hearts' content. They, however, in their
insolence, demanded that I should give them the whole province of
Girgeh in addition. This I refused. And now, I think, we have had
attempts enough at peace-making. I will draw the sword again, and my
armies shall take the field against these insolent rebels.
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