I admit that Muslims lead and cooperate when the matter moves from words to action. Secondly, I am confident in Europe's strength and capability to prevent this movement materially, even if it is incapable of doing so spiritually. The Islamic Caliphate also has other meanings beyond its original one, but they are not without a connection. These meanings, in relation to what we are discussing, are the general meaning to which we have already referred.

Firstly, in Egypt, it is proposed for the Sultan to promote his objectives. This meaning indicates the entry of a new element into Egypt's political situation. The Egyptian national movement was directed against the Turks until recently, as the Arab revolt was originally against Turkey and the Turks. Now, I hear that the leaders of the national movement say that they do not intend to strengthen the ties of dependence between Turkey and Egypt, but rather to preserve the Sultan's sovereignty over Egypt. However, their statement differs significantly from what they were saying very recently, so much so that one cannot help but suspect that their latter statement only occurred to them after they learned that if they distanced themselves from the Turkish relationship, they would bring closer those who are far away and those who are with them. But it is not fair to confine the national struggle to the words of a few irresponsible individuals who do not bear its consequences. If we assume that the latter statement is the true opinion of the national struggle, then we must point out that the Sultan's sovereignty over Egypt is not inherent in it, as far as we know, nor is it likely to be affected, as long as all those concerned with the decree—which is an agreement between two parties, as is clear—do not act outside the scope of their rights. The Khedivate of Egypt has reached its current importance and status because of the fear of violating the sanctity of the decree and the official limitations connected to it, which are confined to the Egyptian territory.

Secondly, the Islamic Caliphate necessarily entails strengthening dependence. As for the religious aspect, many of its supporters advocate for it out of genuine religious fervor, while others wish, if possible, to distinguish between political and religious issues, and also between religion and nationality. This is either because their concern for religion has diminished to the point where they are almost indifferent to it, or because their aims are political, or because they seek opportunities to benefit from it, or because they have followed modern views on the necessity of moderation in religion, as is hoped. But if these are their desires and objectives, then I have no doubt that they will not be able to implement them, because if they do not convince the general Muslim populace of their intentions, they are among the Muslims.