I know of one means that I
have often thought of."
"Name it, my friend!"
"It is dangerous."
"Name it, nevertheless. No matter about the danger, provided I raise
money."
"Well, then," said Mohammed, deliberately, "it seems unjust to me
that our people should bear the burden of taxation alone! Why should
not a tax be imposed on the Franks and Levantines also?"
"On the foreigner?" said Bardissi, with a start. "That has never
been done, that I am aware of."
"Then let it be done now for the first time. They have been allowed
to accumulate wealth here, without bearing any of the burdens of
government."
"You are right: it should be done. My defterdar shall take the
necessary steps at once. The Levantines and Franks shall be made to
pay this very day, and your soldiers shall have the money."
Bardissi hastily departed to give the necessary instructions.
Mohammed Ali returned slowly to his house, a complacent smile on his
countenance. "Only continue in your present course, and you will
soon fall into the pit I have dug for you and yours. Proceed! Your
new tax will create quite a sensation!"
He was right. The new tax did create a sensation.
Bardissi's officials flew from house to house, levying a
contribution of five hundred sequins from each Frank and Levantine.
Their demands were met everywhere with violent opposition, and
caused general dismay.
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