I90 THE STORY OF THE KHEDIVATE.

words, the experiment, whether successful or otherwise, gained time, and to gain time is the main object of every insolvent from a crowned head to a petty tradesman. Whether this explanation is correct or not, it is certain that after his Highness had accepted the idea, he used every effort to create an impression that he was fully resolved to carry it into execution.

On the 28th of August he wrote a letter to Nubar Pasha, which, I fancy, was previously revised by the person to whom it was addressed, offering him the Presidency of the responsible Ministry. This letter contains the following passage, which indicates clearly the view that the Khedive entertained, or, at all events, wished the public to believe he entertained, as to the attributes of the new system of government he proposed to establish.

" Instead of absolute personal rule, the principle on which the existing government of Egypt is based, I wish to have a personal rule which will direct the general course of public affairs, but which will be counterbalanced by a council of ministers. In one word, L wish henceforth to rule with and by my council of ministers. In order to carry out this idea, I consider that for the execution of the reforms I have already announced, the members of the Ministry must be jointly and severally responsible for one another. This point is essential. The council of ministers will discuss in common all important measures affecting the country. The opinion of the majority will determine the opinion of the minority. All ministerial decisions will therefore be taken by the vote of the majority of the Ministry, and by giving my approval I shall sanction in consequence the opinions which have carried the day (in my council). Each minister, therefore, will have to carry into