Egyptian Sudan 4 Egyptian Sudan and English Policy In 1881, the Mahdist call arose in Sudan and the Urabi Revolution in Egypt at the same time, as if they were timed. English policy had a visible hand in both. The English were lying in wait for Egypt, waiting for opportunities, if not creating them. It was an old plan they had devised since Napoleon landed in Egypt and threatened India in 1797. From that day on, the English developed the concept of the "Emperor's route of communication." After expelling Napoleon and repudiating the Treaty of Amiens (1802) between them and France, which stipulated that Egypt's status remain unchanged, they attempted to seize Egypt (1807). Their intention was for Muhammad Ali to be supported by the French so that the matter would be in his hands in Egypt when they realized the English intentions and their inability to resist them. After expelling the English, the French continued to support Muhammad Ali and organize his rule until he defeated Turkey and extended Egyptian rule to the Taurus Mountains, forming a vast empire of Egypt, Syria, and Sudan. But the English were lying in wait for him, inciting the powers against Egypt and considering the "victor as vanquished," keeping Egypt a Turkish province. Then they made Abbas I a mute instrument in their hands, making the route to India the heart of Egypt, ensuring the transfer of mail from Alexandria to Suez, and for that purpose, they built a paved road, reduced schools, and relinquished many privileges. Had his reign been longer, he would have returned Egypt, under their guidance, to a Turkish province. When Said Pasha took over and Ferdinand de Lesseps obtained from him the concession to dig the Suez Canal, the English supported him until they were unable to resist, so they set their sights on owning the canal. Said's slogan was "Egypt for the Egyptians," and he strengthened the nationalist movement by entrusting him with the country's affairs. English policy found no way to him.