18 THE DOWNFALL OF THE DERVISHES

divination by Urim and Thummim, and by

cups, of which we read, was almost cer-

tainly based on this ancient practice; and

at a still later period St. Paul compares our imperfect conceptions of what lies beyond things temporal to the perplexing images which can be “‘seen through a mirror in a

riddle” (8 éodmrpov éy aiviypart), Mr. Lane’s delightful book, Zhe Modern Egyptians, con-

tains an account of the ink-gazing which is

still carried on by young boys.

I should like to add to these remarks on Egyptian magic a most curious account which

I had first-hand from an official who was high

in the favour of the late Khedive, Tewfik

Pacha. During the critical weeks which immediately preceded the bombardment of

Alexandria, my informant was suddenly sum- moned to an immediate audience with His

Highness. Several matters of vital import- ance were discussed between the Khedive

and his Minister, and the latter went home pledged to the utmost secrecy with respect

to what he had learnt. Soon after entering

his house, his wife mentioned to him that

during the course of the afternoon she had