Facsimile · p. 371
The Italian occupation forces suppressed Mahdist factions when necessary. Local news spread, inciting woe and ruin, and warning the influential factions against opposing the leader of that policy, threatening them with immediate destruction if they persisted in this defiance. Among those who woke up that morning was Talha, the owner of a French newspaper called "Le Postif," who vehemently attacked the policy of the "Akhbar" (News) faction, intensifying his criticism and insults until they were forced to remain silent. They requested that Minister Toubar Pasha arrest the man. News arrived that the French Minister of Political Affairs had sent a message, threatening to sever all relations with the government if it did not take action regarding the owner of "Le Postif." Minister Toubar Pasha was torn, like a ram caught between two sacrifices, unsure whether to appease the "Akhbar" faction or sever relations with France. Seeing that the latter would be ruinous, he ordered the newspaper to be closed. The newspaper was sent to Alexandria, and all relations with the government were severed, without waiting for the opinion of their political leader. This matter caused great consternation, and people spoke of nothing else but the French and their actions. Some said that if France had shown such resolve and determination when its ships were at the gates of Alexandria, things might have turned out differently. But today, their leaders and negotiators are experiencing the humiliation and disgrace of the present day. Others said this was the reward for their divisions, which have led them to their current state of oppression and deception. Retribution comes from the Almighty. The debate intensified as the Minister of Political Affairs in Alexandria, the French Minister of Policy, Toubar Pasha, and the "Akhbar" faction argued, claiming they were caught in the flames of sedition. They sought to mediate between the two adversaries and reconcile them, as if they had no stake in the matter. The debate continued for a long time, while news arrived daily in Cairo of various developments. It so happened that during this time, some French warships arrived in Alexandria, causing a stir and excitement among the French. They learned of the contempt shown by some senior officers and military commanders, who were their associates. They were informed of the ongoing disputes and supported them, conveying the news to the warships. The officers observed the open hostility and anger, leading people to believe that war was imminent at the gates of Cairo. They were in this state when news arrived that an agreement had been reached between the French and Minister Toubar Pasha. The newspaper "Le Postif" would resume publication, and Minister Toubar Pasha would visit the French Consul's residence in Alexandria with a ceremonial dress, apologizing for what had happened. The Consul then moved from Alexandria to Cairo. The security of the warships and some senior officers was ensured. On the third day after their return, he visited them in ceremonial dress, which pleased them. Then, volumes of official documents were presented.