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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 77174 ***
+                          LIFE OF ABDEL KADER.
+
+[Illustration]
+
+
+                                  THE
+                          LIFE OF ABDEL KADER,
+                   Ex-Sultan of the Arabs of Algeria;
+
+              WRITTEN FROM HIS OWN DICTATION, AND COMPILED
+                     FROM OTHER AUTHENTIC SOURCES.
+
+                                   BY
+                           COLONEL CHURCHILL,
+     AUTHOR OF “TEN YEARS’ RESIDENCE IN MOUNT LEBANON,” “DRUZES AND
+               MARONITES UNDER TURKISH RULE,” ETC., ETC.
+
+                                LONDON:
+                   CHAPMAN AND HALL, 193, PICCADILLY.
+                                 1867.
+
+
+                                LONDON:
+                       VIRTUE AND CO., PRINTERS,
+                               CITY ROAD.
+
+
+
+
+                              DEDICATION.
+
+                               * * * * *
+
+
+                                   TO
+                             NAPOLEON III.,
+                         EMPEROR OF THE FRENCH.
+
+
+SIRE,
+
+    OTHERS may claim for themselves the glorious privilege of recording
+the courage, the sagacity, and the skill with which you wield the
+destinies of Imperial France.
+
+I have claimed, and am proud to have procured at your hands, the humbler
+but scarcely less glorious privilege of dedicating to you a work which,
+while it celebrates the great actions, and portrays the magnanimous
+character of one of the most remarkable men whom the Arab race has ever
+produced, records at the same time, though feebly and inadequately, the
+loftiness of principle, the chivalry of sentiment, and the sensitive
+jealousy of French honour which induced you to release him,
+spontaneously and unconditionally, from treacherous detention on French
+soil.
+
+That act was a worthy inauguration of your splendid reign. That act
+alone would suffice to give it imperishable lustre.
+
+                                                CHARLES HENRY CHURCHILL.
+
+
+
+
+                                PREFACE.
+
+                               * * * * *
+
+
+If I should unfortunately be mistaken in the belief and expectation that
+some interest may yet be excited in the public mind by a narrative of
+the deeds and exploits of the illustrious Arab whose extraordinary
+career I have selected as my theme, I shall willingly impute my
+disappointment, not to any want of judgment and discrimination on the
+part of the reading public, but to my own involuntary and sincere
+enthusiasm for all that is grand, ennobling, and romantic.
+
+That these characteristics attach largely, and in their most inspiring
+and soul-stirring sense, to the life I here depict, the following pages
+amply corroborate.
+
+Having thus exhibited the feeling which induced me to approach a
+subject, to me fraught with peculiar and almost irresistible
+attractions, I proceed to state the circumstances under which my present
+work was commenced and matured.
+
+I was at Constantinople in the month of September, 1853. Abdel Kader was
+living, an exile, at Broussa. To have been within such an easy distance
+of one who had for so many years been invested in my mind with all the
+attributes of heroic greatness, without gratifying myself with a sight
+of his person, would have been doing treason to my warmest and most
+deeply cherished feelings.
+
+I went accordingly and saw him. The acquaintance thus formed has been,
+through a course of wholly unexpected events, gradually cemented into
+permanent and unalterable friendship. In 1855 he came to Syria, his
+place of exile having been changed from Broussa to Damascus. On his way
+to the latter, from Beyrout, he passed a short time with me in the
+Lebanon.
+
+Our long conversations turned almost exclusively on his proceedings in
+Algeria—his campaigns, his mode of administration, his plans of reform,
+and his principles of government. He expatiated on all these topics not
+only without reserve, but with exuberance. The stirring recital,
+delivered at times in a tone of martial energy and enthusiasm, at others
+with an air of melancholy which touchingly told of glowing hopes cruelly
+frustrated, of lofty and patriotic inspirations rudely crushed, was more
+than simply interesting and exciting. It had the grandeur and sublimity
+of a tragic epos.
+
+What, I thought to myself, shall all this wealth of incident, these
+marvels of adventure, these varieties of good, and great, and glorious
+deeds be suffered to become “alms for oblivion,”[1] without even a
+feeble attempt at rescue? Shall no one ever have an opportunity afforded
+him of being urged to greater self-discipline, to the attainment of more
+mental hardihood, to the practice of more severe abnegation, by having
+placed before him the record of a life marked and distinguished by such
+absorbing devotion to a sense of duty, such fixity and concentration of
+purpose, such unflinching and indomitable perseverance?
+
+Filled with these reflections, I one morning asked Abdel Kader if he had
+never kept any written memorial of the transactions in which he had been
+engaged. He smiled, and said, “I was far too much and constantly
+occupied for that. I did my duty. That was quite occupation enough for
+me.” “But,” I added, “if I were to endeavour to draw up an account of
+your various doings, would you assist me?” “With the greatest pleasure,”
+was his reply; “I will gladly answer any questions you may wish to put
+me.” That day I resolved to write the biography of Abdel Kader.
+
+I resided at Damascus during the winter of 1859-60, expressly for the
+purpose of carrying my resolution into effect. Abdel Kader, though a
+perfect miser of his time, courteously consented to give me an audience
+of one hour every day. The mine was before me. I had to extract the ore.
+I laboured at it for five months. Some French works assisted me in my
+course of inquiry, such as “Annales Algériennes,” by M. Pellissier de
+Reynaud; “Histoire de la Conquête d’Alger,” by M. Alfred Nottement, and
+others of less note. At a later period I also profited by a publication
+more exclusively devoted to my subject, entitled “Abdel Kader, sa vie
+Politique et Militaire,” by M. Bellemare.
+
+Abdel Kader was most ample in his remarks and commentaries on these
+authors. He thus supplied me with many useful rectifications, as well as
+a vast amount of valuable and important original information from
+himself.
+
+Little did I contemplate, on leaving Damascus in the spring of 1860,
+that another chapter was so soon about to be added to his strange and
+eventful history; or that his glorious star, apparently for ever set,
+was destined shortly to burst forth again with meteoric splendour. Of
+his magnanimous and exemplary conduct during the fearful massacre of the
+Christians in that city, through the shameless and heartless complicity
+of the Turkish authorities, I obtained the most extensive and correct
+details from eye-witnesses.
+
+Such, then, were my materials. It remained for me to compile and embody
+them. I have done so. With all diffidence and humility I invite my
+readers to pronounce their verdict on the performance.
+
+
+
+
+                               CONTENTS.
+
+                               * * * * *
+
+
+                                         PAGE.
+
+  CHAPTER I.—1807-1828                      1
+
+  CHAPTER II.—1830-1832                    14
+
+  CHAPTER III.—1833                        30
+
+  CHAPTER IV.—1833                         43
+
+  CHAPTER V.—1834                          57
+
+  CHAPTER VI.—1835                         72
+
+  CHAPTER VII.—1836                        84
+
+  CHAPTER VIII.—1837                       97
+
+  CHAPTER IX.—1838                        109
+
+  CHAPTER X.—1838                         122
+
+  CHAPTER XI.—1838-1839                   139
+
+  CHAPTER XII.—1839                       153
+
+  CHAPTER XIII.—1839                      167
+
+  CHAPTER XIV.—1839-1840                  181
+
+  CHAPTER XV.—1841-1842                   194
+
+  CHAPTER XVI.—1841-1842                  206
+
+  CHAPTER XVII.—1843                      219
+
+  CHAPTER XVIII.—1844-1845                231
+
+  CHAPTER XIX.—1845-1847                  245
+
+  CHAPTER XX.—1847                        259
+
+  CHAPTER XXI.—1847-1848                  271
+
+  CHAPTER XXII.—1848-1853                 287
+
+  CHAPTER XXIII.—1853-1860                301
+
+  CHAPTER XXIV—1860-1864                  319
+
+
+
+
+                  LETTER OF ABDEL KADER TO THE AUTHOR.
+
+                               * * * * *
+
+                             [TRANSLATION.]
+
+                        PRAISE BE TO GOD ALONE!
+
+To the amiable, the honourable, the all-accomplished and virtuous
+Colonel Churchill.
+
+After offering you our salutations, and inquiring after your noble
+pleasure, we have to acknowledge your valued letter, showing your high
+regard for us.
+
+May God recompense you with His highest rewards, and make your portion
+exceedingly rich and full in everlasting felicity.
+
+We have now to state that we were hindered from replying to you sooner
+by an illness, which prevented us even for several days from going to
+the house of prayer. But now it is the most imperative of our imperative
+duties to thank you, in reply, for your great kindness. We never cease
+inquiring about all that may concern, or be connected with your
+Excellency; and we pray God to smooth and prosper our affairs in common,
+and to establish us in all rectitude and good works. With best wishes
+for your peace and happiness,
+
+                                           ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN.
+
+_1 Jumadi_, 1273.
+
+_25th December_, 1856.
+
+
+
+
+                          LIFE OF ABDEL KADER.
+
+                               * * * * *
+
+                               CHAPTER I.
+
+                               1807-1828.
+
+
+Abdel Kader Nusr-ed-deen, fourth son of Abdel Kader Mehi-ed-deen, was
+born in the month of May, 1807, at the paternal _ketna_, or family
+village, on the banks of the river Hammam. This locality lies in the
+district of Eghrees, appertaining to the province of Oran, in Algeria.
+
+From his infancy Abdel Kader was the especial object of his father’s
+fondest affections. Even when at the breast, the doting parent would
+constantly insist on taking the child in his arms; and he reluctantly
+permitted anyone but himself to do the duties of a nurse. Some secret
+and undefined impulse, as it seemed, impelled him to devote more than
+ordinary care and attention to the child, whose future career was to be
+so indelibly and gloriously associated with his country’s weal.
+
+The physical constitution of the boy early exhibited a robust
+development; whilst, by a strange contrast, his disposition displayed a
+great natural timidity. The term “frightened at a shadow,” might have
+been taken in its most literal sense in his case. In after years, and
+when in the pride and vigour of manhood, he shone forth as the bravest
+of the brave—ever foremost to lead the charge, or cover the retreat—his
+father would often rally him on his boyish frailty, and wonder at the
+extraordinary contrast.
+
+The mental powers of the boy were more than usually precocious. At the
+age of five he could read and write; at twelve he was a Taleb, or an
+approved proficient in the Koran, the Hadeeth (traditional sayings of
+the prophet Mohammed), and all the most esteemed religious expositions.
+Two years later he attained the highly-prized distinction of being a
+Hafiz, or one who knows the entire Koran by heart. In this position he
+had a class in the family mosque, where he explained the most difficult
+and recondite passages of the commentators. The extent of his youthful
+ambition was to be a great Marabout, like his father, whom he loved and
+regarded with an enthusiasm amounting to adoration.
+
+In his seventeenth year the youth was conspicuous amongst his associates
+for his remarkable strength and agility. The perfect symmetry and
+compactness of his figure—his height being about five feet six
+inches—his bony make, his broad, deep chest, all betokened a frame
+formed for untiring activity, and capable of enduring the utmost
+fatigue.
+
+As an equestrian, none approached him. Not only was he a graceful rider,
+but his marvellous superiority in all those feats of horsemanship which
+require the nicest eye, the steadiest hand, and the greatest efforts of
+muscular power, was the theme of all who knew him. Touching his horse’s
+shoulder with his breast, he would place one hand on its back, and vault
+over to the other side; or, putting the animal to its full speed, he
+would disengage his feet from the stirrups, stand up in the saddle, and
+fire at a mark with the utmost precision. Under his light and skilful
+touch, his well-trained Arab would kneel down, or walk for yards on his
+hind legs, its fore ones pawing the air, or spring and jump like a
+gazelle.
+
+But it was on the race-course that the youth more particularly shone.
+That exciting pastime, into which the Algerian nobles enter with a
+passion not exceeded by our most devoted amateurs of the turf, was his
+peculiar element. Mounted on a jet-black steed—a colour he especially
+affected, as generally accompanied by superior equine qualities, and as
+throwing into relief the whiteness of his burnous—he was the cynosure of
+every eye.
+
+His apparel was plain and simple. His arms alone displayed ornament. His
+long Tunisian musket was inlaid with silver; his pistols were encrusted
+with mother-of-pearl and coral; and his Damascus blade encased in a
+sheath of silver gilt. These brilliant appurtenances, combined with the
+partial gifts which Nature had lavished on his person, threw an
+inexpressible charm around his appearance.
+
+His countenance, of the purest classic mould, was singularly attractive
+from its expressive and yet almost feminine beauty. His nose—middling-
+sized and delicately shaped—a pleasing mean between the Grecian and the
+Roman type; his lips, finely chiseled and slightly compressed, bespoke
+dignified reserve and firmness of purpose; while large, lustrous hazel
+eyes beamed from beneath a massive forehead of marble whiteness with
+subdued and melancholy softness, or flashed with the rays of genius and
+intelligence.
+
+Once the race engaged, his whole hearing and demeanour exhibited the
+most perfect coolness and self-possession. Distancing his numerous
+competitors, he would often reach the goal alone, amidst shouts of
+applause, clapping of hands, and the exhilarating shouts of hundreds of
+female voices bursting out into the _zulagheel_—that shrill and piercing
+cry of joy and welcome amongst the Arabs, which is so cheering to the
+triumphant warrior.
+
+Thus, when at a later period of his life he performed those marvellous
+courses which astonished and confounded his enemies—never sleeping for
+weeks together under cover, and rarely ungirdling his sword—it was truly
+said of him that “his saddle was his throne.”
+
+In Algeria, the nobility is divided into two distinct classes—the
+Marabouts and the Djouads. The former derive their position from
+religion; the other from the sword. These respective representatives of
+moral influence and physical strength regard each other with mutual
+scorn and jealousy. The Djouads accuse the Marabouts of ill-disguised
+ambition, and of a greedy covetousness after wealth and power, veiled
+under the specious pretext that every fresh acquisition they make was
+solely for the service of religion. The Marabouts taunt the Djouads with
+their violence, licentiousness, and love of rapine.
+
+The Djied devotes himself entirely to the chase. He delights in all the
+bracing recreations which call forth skill and courage. His pride is to
+excel in falconry, in hunting the gazelle, the ostrich, the panther, and
+the wild boar. These violent pursuits, the thrilling excitement of which
+calls forth all the energies of body and mind, prepare him for the more
+serious encounters of war. The chase is the school for the razzia.
+
+Abdel Kader, although he certainly never contemplated the possibility of
+ever being engaged in a razzia, and altogether repudiated such a mode of
+warfare (based as it generally was on the mere love of plunder), as
+equally contrary to his principles and his inclination, yet engaged
+ardently in field sports. His favourite diversion was to hunt the wild
+boar. Carefully avoiding the ostentatious display of the Djouads, as
+they sallied forth with their long train of adherents, their falcons,
+and their greyhounds, he privately mounted his horse, and taking only
+two or three domestics, plunged into the depths of the forest. On his
+return from his sporting excursions, he betook himself to his studies
+with renewed ardour.
+
+It is not surprising that one so highly gifted by nature, and so earnest
+in the task of self-culture and improvement, should have gradually
+obtained a considerable ascendancy over all around him. Abdel Kader,
+indeed, already shared the unbounded respect, confidence, and affection
+which the Arabs of Oran had so long extended to his father. The latter,
+overjoyed to see his fondest hopes thus realised, could not perform a
+duty, or enjoy a social pleasure, without the presence of his favourite
+son. In his public audiences, his plans and projects, his lesser
+journeyings, or his more distant visits to the Turkish beys in the town,
+and the Arab tribes in the Tell or Sahara, Abdel Kader was his unfailing
+confidant and companion.
+
+According to Moslem usage, and the law of the Koran, Abdel Kader married
+young. “Marry young,” says the Prophet, “marriage subdues the man’s look
+and regulates the maiden’s conduct.” At that period of life when the
+passions first agitate the breast, Abdel Kader was, in an especial
+manner, the object of his father’s solicitude. Faithful and trustworthy
+servants accompanied him wherever he went. He was never allowed to be
+alone. Temptations were thus avoided which might have endangered the
+purity of his morals. At the age of fifteen he married his cousin, Leila
+Heira, who was alike remarkable for her beauty and her moral
+attractions.
+
+The time at length arrived when Mehi-ed-deen, now in his fiftieth year,
+felt it his duty to perform a pilgrimage to Mecca. Large preparations
+were made for the solemn event. Many were the entreaties on the part of
+his sons and retainers to be allowed the boon of sharing the dangers and
+the honours of the journey. None could endure the thought of being left
+behind. Mehi-ed-deen, embarrassed by such applications, declared his
+intention of going alone. The next day an exception was made in favour
+of Abdel Kader. All, though with mournful hearts, were obliged to submit
+to the final mandate; and father and son left the ketna, in October,
+1823.
+
+The rumour of Mehi-ed-deen’s movement soon spread through the province
+of Oran. Suddenly, a sympathetic impulse seemed to inspire the Arabs in
+all directions. All remembered they had a pilgrimage to perform. “To
+Mecca, to Mecca!” resounded on every side. Parties were made, mules
+procured, tents prepared.
+
+On his first day’s halt, Mehi-ed-deen saw his place of encampment
+invaded by hundreds of Arabs claiming the privilege of joining him on
+his pious errand. On the second day they increased to thousands. On the
+fourth, a sea of tents surged around him. Gentle remonstrance and stern
+refusal were equally unavailing. Mehi-ed-deen was their Marabout, their
+chief, their saint, and doubly blessed would those be who under such
+auspices should kiss the Holy Shrine. On the sixth evening the vast
+pilgrimage had assembled on the banks of the Ejdowia, in the valley of
+the Cheliff.
+
+At dead of night a Turkish horseman rode up at full gallop, and
+dismounted at the tent of Mehi-ed-deen. He was the bearer of a dispatch
+from Hussein Bey, the governor of Oran. The missive was hastily opened
+by Abdel Kader, and found to contain a courteous summons to his father
+to repair to that seat of government. Before daybreak Mehi-ed-deen had
+finished his arrangements for a return to Oran, in obedience to his
+chief’s commands.
+
+Great was the consternation which seized the Arabs when the news of this
+unexpected summons got abroad; not only were all their hopes damped and
+frustrated, but their liveliest fears were awakened for their beloved
+leader. Numbers thronged around him. Some clung to his person, others
+seized his horse; others again flung themselves despairingly across the
+horse’s path—all entreating and imploring him not to heed the message.
+To all these ardent demonstrations of attachment Mehi-ed-deen, with that
+sense of loyalty which never forsook him, calmly replied, “My children,
+it is my duty to obey, and I go, though it cost me my head.”
+
+Having thus spoken, and bidden the friends around him farewell, he took
+his course with Abdel Kader to the spot to which he was summoned.
+
+The reception given them by Hussein Bey was apparently frank and
+cordial. Addressing himself to Mehi-ed-deen, he said, “You know, my
+friend, how high you stand in my favour and esteem. Deeply has it
+grieved me to hear the malicious reports which have been spread about
+you. Your enemies are numerous. I dreaded lest you should fall into the
+hands of the Dey of Algiers, whose territory you have just entered in a
+way which, I know, has excited his suspicions. I sent for you, to save
+you from impending danger. My heart was filled with anxiety on your
+account.”
+
+“And it was to save you anxiety,” mildly and sarcastically replied Mehi-
+ed-deen, “that I obeyed your summons.”
+
+There is no doubt, in fact, that Hussein Bey was himself actuated by
+those very feelings of jealousy and suspicion which he had described as
+peculiar to his colleague at Algiers. The strange and unusual gathering
+of the Arabs around Mehi-ed-deen had alarmed him. He knew and hated the
+great Marabout’s popularity. He dreaded lest it might one day raise him
+into the position of a rival power. Any overt acts of hostility against
+the man he feared, he was well aware, were dangerous, if not fruitless.
+But now he had succeeded, under the garb of friendship, in getting this
+very man into his power. His subsequent proceedings soon revealed his
+real intentions. Scarcely had Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader gone to their
+lodgings ere a Turkish guard was placed over them. Wherever they went
+they were escorted by soldiers. Soldiers entered with them into the
+houses of their friends. Soldiers stood by them in the mosque. They were
+prisoners of state.
+
+This irksome position of things continued with unabated rigour for two
+years. Mehi-ed-deen never made a remonstrance. Profiting by their forced
+seclusion, he and Abdel Kader ardently pursued their favourite studies.
+They awaited with stoic resignation the issue of their tyrant’s caprice.
+At last Hussein Bey, awakened to the folly of his fears, sent for Mehi-
+ed-deen and gave him permission to resume his pilgrimage.
+
+Resolving not to return to the ketna, even to bid adieu once more to his
+family, lest such steps should produce a similar manifestation to that
+which had previously caused them so much embarrassment, Mehi-ed-deen and
+Abdel Kader left Oran with the greatest privacy, in November, 1825.
+Passing through Medea and Constantine, they reached Tunis, where they
+joined a company of 2,000 pilgrims who were awaiting a favourable
+occasion to proceed by sea to Alexandria. The whole party shortly
+afterwards embarked in a vessel bound for that port. But they were
+overtaken by a violent storm, and were obliged to put back. A more
+prosperous result attended their next essay; and after beating about for
+a fortnight they reached their destination.
+
+After stopping a few days at Alexandria, Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader
+went on to Cairo, and pitched their tents near the town. Here for the
+first and only time Abdel Kader saw Mohammed Ali. Little did the
+youthful pilgrim imagine, while gazing on that successful soldier, that
+he himself was already destined to outrival him, before many more years
+had past, in military prowess, in administrative ability, and in deeds
+of wide-world renown.
+
+The usual route to Mecca, by Suez and Djedda, was performed without any
+incident worthy of notice. Having performed their devotions at the
+Caaba, Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader separated from their companions and
+went to Damascus. In that city they remained for some months. They there
+made the acquaintance of the principal Ulemahs, and spent most of their
+time in the great mosque, engaged in religious readings.
+
+They now set out on another pilgrimage, scarcely less sacred in their
+eyes than the one to Mecca,—that to the tomb of the famous Abdel Kader
+il Djellali, the patron saint of Algeria. They reached Bagdad in thirty
+days, by the Palmyra route. Belonging as they did to a family well known
+for the costly presents which many of its members had laid upon the
+sacred tomb, they received a most hospitable reception from the cadi of
+the city, Mohammed il Zachariah, who was himself a descendant of the
+great saint. Mehi-ed-deen contributed a bag full of gold. To doubt the
+miraculous powers of Abdel Kader il Djellali would have been as great a
+sin in the eyes of the Marabout as to have doubted the apostolic
+mission.
+
+His father Mustapha had thrice performed the pilgrimage to Bagdad, and
+had at each time been favoured with peculiar manifestations. Once when
+returning, and while yet eight days from Damascus, he got separated from
+the caravan and lost his way. Bewildered and benighted, he found himself
+alone in the desert. Suddenly a negro appeared by his side, and offered
+to conduct him to the city. At break of day he saw the minarets. The
+muezzin’s call to prayer struck upon his ears. In a few hours, time and
+space had been annihilated.
+
+At another time, when at Cairo, he was desirous of buying a book, but he
+had no money for the purchase. A stranger all at once advanced towards
+him, placed some coins in his hand, and disappeared. Such, according to
+the belief of Mehi-ed-deen, were the rewards of a firm and unshaken
+faith in Abdel Kader il Djellali.
+
+This Moslem saint flourished in the twelfth century. There are cenotaphs
+to his memory all over the East. In Algeria the operations of the
+physical world are believed to be under his control. No journey is ever
+undertaken without prayers for his protection; none are terminated
+without a festival in his honour. The Arabs attribute the success and
+good fortune of Abdel Kader to the patronage of his mighty namesake. But
+whenever Abdel Kader was questioned as to his own belief in such a
+superstition, he invariably replied, with finger pointed up to heaven,
+“My trust was in God alone.”
+
+Many stories have been circulated about mysterious indications given to
+Abdel Kader, while at Bagdad, of his future greatness. They are all
+without foundation. It is true Mehi-ed-deen had a dream. An angelic
+being appeared to him, and putting a key into his hand, told him to
+hasten back to Oran. On demanding what he was to do with the key, the
+spirit replied to him, “God will direct you.” The dream made an
+impression at the time on the two pilgrims, for it was noted down, and
+long remembered; but it only excited curiosity, without fostering
+delusion.
+
+After spending three months at Bagdad, father and son returned to Mecca.
+Their funds were exhausted. For the remainder of their journey, they
+depended on the resources of their fellow-travellers, pilgrims like
+themselves, who were going back to Algeria. They took the land route the
+entire way, and reached home early in 1828, after an absence of more
+than two years.
+
+Great were the rejoicings which celebrated their safe arrival at the
+ketna. The first and most prominent in the round of festivities was a
+great banquet in honour of Abdel Kader il Djellali. Fifteen oxen and
+eighty sheep were sacrificed. Guests of every rank and class hourly
+arrived from all parts, spontaneously and uninvited. Some were superbly
+mounted and splendidly attired, followed by trains of slaves and
+domestics; others of the middle classes came riding on mules and
+donkeys, whilst hundreds of the lower orders kept pouring in, eagerly
+anticipating the princely fare of their revered Marabout.
+
+Mehi-ed-deen, whose hospitality was proverbial, would hear of no limits
+to this costly profusion; and thus week after week rolled on, and still
+fresh guests were perpetually arriving to swell the general tide of
+festivity. Nor was it till nearly all the Arabs of the province of Oran,
+and numerous deputations from the tribes of the Sahara, had paid their
+tribute of homage and congratulation to the respected chief of the
+Hashem, that the Wady Hammam resumed its wonted aspect of quiet and
+repose.
+
+Abdel Kader was now once more a peaceful dweller at the paternal ketna.
+He made a vow of religious seclusion. No visions of human greatness rose
+before him. No worldly aspirations agitated his breast. He scorned the
+allurements of ambition. His whole time was given up to close and
+unremitting study. No cloistered monk ever shunned more carefully all
+contact with his fellow-men. From sunrise to sunset he rarely left his
+room. His only interruptions were his meals and the sacred intervals of
+prayer.
+
+The works of Plato, Pythagoras, Aristotle, treatises by the most famous
+authors of the Arabian Caliphates, on ancient and modern history,
+philosophy, philology, astronomy, geography, and even works on medicine,
+were eagerly perused by the enthusiastic student. His library
+accumulated. The master-spirits were around him. He would not have
+exchanged his communion with them for all the thrones in the universe.
+But a change was about to come.
+
+The mysterious power which regulates the human will, and makes every
+mortal career subservient to its all-wise, all-comprehensive and
+resistless fiat, was exercising its invisible influence. Abdel Kader had
+renounced the world. He was ere long to appear one of its foremost
+actors. He hated battle—yet was he soon to shine mightiest in the
+battle’s front.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER II.
+
+                               1830-1832.
+
+
+The taking of Algiers by the French in 1830 did not at first inspire the
+Arabs with any unusual feelings of dread or anxiety. The Franks had
+often descended on their coasts, and even occupied some of their
+maritime towns. The standards of Spain and England had waved
+triumphantly on the ramparts of Oran and Tangiers. Bona and Algiers had
+been compelled at different times to yield a sullen deference to the
+requirements of European civilisation; but the military occupation and
+the political pressure had alike ceased. Thus the Arabs had never as yet
+seen any reason to regard a hostile incursion on their soil, by the
+Franks, as pregnant with danger to their national existence.
+
+The proceedings of the French, however, in Algeria, soon convinced them
+that the presence of these invaders was no ordinary visitation. General
+Bourmont, indeed, from the outset, declared in a public proclamation,
+that France took possession, not only of the town of Algiers, but of the
+whole Regency. This announcement, closely followed as it was by the
+exile of the Dey, the removal of every trace and vestige of Turkish
+power, the deportation of the Turkish population, the issuing of laws
+and ordinances in the name of the King of the French, the enlarging and
+beautifying of the town of Algiers, the seizure of all the towns along
+the coast, and the advances of military reconnaissance towards the
+Atlas, revealed designs which neither the Arabs of the actual
+generation, nor their ancestors, had ever been called upon to
+counteract.
+
+Before the French began to move beyond the walls of Algiers, the
+disposition of the Arabs towards them had been apparently friendly.
+Provisions had been brought in abundantly. Some of their chiefs had made
+overtures of submission. The Bey of Tittery had even accepted French
+investiture. So promising, indeed, was the aspect of affairs, that the
+French fancied they were about to be hailed as deliverers, and
+considered that the Arabs, overjoyed at being emancipated from the hated
+Turkish yoke, would thankfully accept French domination. The first
+movement of the French into the interior rapidly dispelled this pleasing
+illusion.
+
+An expedition, commanded by the French general in person, to Blidah, a
+town situated at the foot of the Lower Atlas (July 24th, 1830), at once
+revealed the rising feeling of the Arabs. Lulled into security by the
+apparent heartiness of their reception among the inhabitants of Blidah,
+the leading men of which town came out to meet them, the French threw
+off their knapsacks, and wandered joyously amidst its delicious gardens.
+Suddenly, bands of Arabs and Kabyles rushed down upon them from the
+mountains above, and with wild cries commenced a vigorous attack. The
+French rapidly collected, bravely held their ground, and the next day
+retreated in good order to Algiers.
+
+The Arabs took this temporary advantage as an earnest of future
+successes. From that moment, the spirit of defiance and resistance
+assumed a decided form. The Marabouts, leading and directing the
+national mind, proclaimed the Djehad, or Holy War. The Bey of Tittery,
+anxious to atone for his recent defection, wrote to Bourmont, fixing the
+day when at the head of 20,000 men, he would drive him and his Frenchmen
+into the sea.
+
+On the other hand, French garrisons were quietly being stationed in all
+the seaport towns. At Oran, Hussein Bey became anxious to be delivered
+from a position which had become dangerous to his person. He was closely
+blockaded by the Arabs, burning to revenge themselves on his tyranny.
+His Turkish militia was utterly powerless for his defence. The Arabs in
+Turkish employ, the _Maghzen_, as they were called, were flying before
+the tribes so long oppressed, who now considered that their hour of
+retaliation was come.
+
+In this dilemma, Hussein, unwilling to fly, and yet unable to hold his
+post, determined on adopting a course which, though humiliating to his
+pride, was dictated by the sternest necessity. He sent for Mehi-ed-deen,
+and craved his protection. Mehi-ed-deen, astonished at such an
+application, and fearing to compromise himself with his own countrymen
+by a hasty consent, asked leave to return home to consult the Hashems.
+
+On his arrival at the ketna, he assembled a family council, and called
+on each member to give his opinion on the subject. The prevailing
+opinion was to the effect that it would be ungenerous to refuse the
+Bey’s request. It was true, as was on every hand admitted, that the
+injuries done by him to their beloved chief had been wanton and
+malicious; but it was urged, that it would be a stain upon Arab
+character to refuse an asylum to the fallen.
+
+Abdel Kader spoke. He begged the indulgence of his relatives, and
+particularly of his father, if he ventured to differ from them. In the
+state of anarchy which now existed in the province of Oran, he argued,
+it was by no means certain that they could protect the Bey from the
+effects of the universal feelings of hatred and indignation which
+prevailed against him. Whatever steps they might take, the Bey would
+still run the risk of being insulted, assaulted, perhaps murdered. Who
+could avert an outburst of popular fury, or be answerable for its
+consequences? In such an event, how great would be the disgrace of those
+who had given him a safe-conduct, and had been unable to make it
+respected!
+
+“Another and equally important reason,” pursued Abdel Kader, “militates
+against the reception of the Bey in our ketna. An asylum given by our
+family to that detested representative of Turkish tyranny, would be
+looked upon by the Arabs as a kind of tacit forgetfulness of all his
+past conduct. Consequently we should make to ourselves enemies of all
+the tribes to whom the Bey is obnoxious; in other words, of all the
+Arabs of Oran.”
+
+Mehi-ed-deen at once declared himself a convert to his son’s reasoning;
+and in this step he was shortly followed by every member of the council.
+A messenger was sent to inform the Bey that his request could not be
+granted, as Mehi-ed-deen would not become responsible for his safety. On
+the 4th of January, 1831, General Damremont entered the port of Oran.
+The Bey at once surrendered, and he was allowed to embark for
+Alexandria.
+
+The disorder and anarchy which had already broken out in the interior
+was now constantly on the increase. The Mohammedans of the sea-coast
+towns, who had fled from the French, were roaming about the country with
+their families in terror and despair. The Arabs waylaid them, and robbed
+them without mercy. Mehi-ed-deen, who had hitherto been a passive
+observer of events, felt that the time had now arrived for action. By
+his orders Abdel Kader and his brothers, with effective escorts, scoured
+the plains in all directions, protecting the unfortunate fugitives,
+rescuing many from the hands of the marauders, and conducting all to
+places of safety.
+
+But whatever good Mehi-ed-deen effected by this humane and timely
+interposition, it was evident that a far more potent arm than his was
+requisite to establish anything like a semblance of order and
+government. Not only on the plains, but in the towns, strife and
+contention were raging unchecked. Party feuds, which had been long
+suspended, broke out afresh with redoubled acrimony. The Arabs were
+everywhere giving the reins to their innate propensities for unbridled
+licence and lawlessness.
+
+Long and anxious were the consultations held by the Marabouts on this
+frightful state of affairs. At length, with one accord, they determined
+to go to Mehi-ed-deen for counsel. Mehi-ed-deen thus appealed to,
+addressed the applicants for his advice in the following terms:—
+
+“For many months, as you all know, I have been trying to preserve some
+degree of order amidst the general confusion which prevails; but my
+utmost endeavours have only been able to rescue a few of the weak and
+unprotected from the brutality of violent men.
+
+“The tyranny of the Turks cramped and crushed our energies; but the
+present state of things, if allowed to continue, will destroy them
+utterly. The bonds of society are dissolved. Every man’s hand is raised
+against his neighbour. Our people, given up to their vile passions, are
+daily outraging the laws of God and man. At the same time, the evils
+which menace us from without are not less formidable than those which
+consume us from within. Shall we call in the French? Impossible. To
+submit to them, much more to invite them, would be to betray our duty to
+our God, our country, and our faith.
+
+“Yet the French are a warlike nation, strong in numbers, abounding in
+riches, and burning with a love of conquest. And what have we to oppose
+to them? Tribes at variance with each other; designing and rapacious
+chiefs striving for personal aggrandisement; a commonalty which has
+thrown off all restraint, some enriching themselves by plunder, others
+precariously holding their own. The parties are too unequal. With such
+materials, to imagine even a successful struggle with the infidel would
+be folly, to attempt it, madness.
+
+“No. The French king, powerful as he is, can only be effectually opposed
+by a king like himself at the head of a well-regulated state, disposing
+of a well-filled treasury, commanding a disciplined army. Nor need we go
+far to find such a one. The Sultan of Morocco already sympathises with
+us. He must know full well that the external danger which threatens us
+may ultimately menace him. His presence amongst us will at once
+encourage and embolden the good, and awe the wicked. Order will be
+enforced. Fighting under him, we shall march to assured victory; for his
+standards are the standards of God and the Prophet.”
+
+A few days afterwards, an embassy, comprising ten of the most
+influential Marabouts and Sheiks, with an escort of fifty horsemen, and
+mules laden with presents, took its departure for Fez. Sultan Abderahman
+received the embassy with every appearance of cordiality, and promised
+to consider its demands. Six months elapsed without any reply. At last
+the Arab chiefs were sent for. Movements in the palace, and the
+assemblage of the troops, showed that the petition of the Arabs of
+Algeria had been granted. In six weeks, the Sultan’s son Ali, at the
+head of 5,000 cavalry and two parks of artillery, established his
+headquarters at Tlemsen, in the province of Oran.
+
+Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader, with all the chiefs of the Hashem, chiefs
+from the Beni Mejaher, the Beni Amer, and other tribes, hastened to pay
+their homage to the son and representative of their new Sultan. His
+authority was speedily recognised in all parts of the regency. The
+_khotba_, or public prayer for the Mohammedan Sultan, was pronounced in
+all the mosques for the Sultan of Morocco. Everything conspired to
+confirm the belief that Algeria had peaceably passed under the Moorish
+sceptre. But the French Government, seasonably apprised of these newly-
+formed relations between the Arabs and the Sultan Abderahman, at once
+sent the latter an ultimatum of immediate withdrawal from Algeria, or
+war.
+
+Abderahman, compelled to choose one or other of these alternatives, and
+being totally unprepared to commence hostilities, immediately sent
+orders to his son to return. In a few days, although the Moors had been
+warmly welcomed, even in the provinces of Tittery and Constantine, not
+one was to be seen in the whole country. The Marabouts and chiefs now
+resolved to offer the dignity of Sultan to Mehi-ed-deen, and went in a
+body for that purpose to the ketna. He modestly declined the offer; but
+at the same time he recommended a second appeal to Morocco.
+
+Another embassy was accordingly sent to Fez, to implore the Moorish
+Sultan to lend his name, at least, if he could not give material aid and
+assistance, to the movement which was being made in his favour. Unable
+to act overtly, yet hoping to profit by events, Abderahman so far
+complied with their request, that he sent a confidential agent to
+Mascara. This clandestine proceeding, however, produced no effect. The
+Arabs scorned a power which dared not openly display itself; and in a
+short time the Moorish agent was withdrawn.
+
+Again all eyes were turned to Mehi-ed-deen. Again the Arabs entreated
+him to be their Sultan. “No,” he replied. “I am not adequate to perform
+the duties of such a post; but what religion imposes upon me, that will
+I do. I will go with you to the Djehad.” The Arabs had for some time
+been making approaches to Oran, now strongly occupied by the French.
+Abdel Kader had taken the field, and his father served under him.
+
+The Arabs had recently been attacking Fort Philip, a strong citadel to
+the south of the town. Abdel Kader had both proposed and superintended
+the operation. Conspicuous in a scarlet burnous, he led on a mixed body
+of cavalry and infantry to the very walls of the fort. Ordering the
+latter to descend into the ditch and keep up a constant fire on the
+ramparts, he placed the former in such a position as to be ready to
+resist any sortie which might be made from the place. The fire of shot
+and shell which the French opened on the Arabs was such as might have
+staggered the best disciplined troops. But Abdel Kader, careering to and
+fro, and cheering his comrades by his voice and gestures, kept them
+together, and taught them to despise the tremendous missiles which were
+so wont to fill them with terror and amazement.
+
+Word was sent him that the Arabs he had placed in the ditch had expended
+their ammunition, and that no one would expose himself to supply them.
+“Cowards!” he exclaimed, “give me the cartridges.” Wrapping them up in
+the folds of his burnous, he dashed singly across the plain, rode up to
+the fort, threw them into the ditch, and urging his men to be firm and
+go on with their work, returned, to the surprise of all, without being
+touched.
+
+On this and many similar occasions of peril and enterprise, in which he
+fleshed his maiden sword, Abdel Kader’s courage and bravery drew forth
+not only praises, but rapturous admiration. The Arabs began to look with
+superstitious reverence on one, who as with a charmed life, rode
+fearlessly and harmlessly wherever danger menaced; now breaking through
+the line of the enemy’s skirmishers; now charging up to a square, and
+sweeping the bayonets with his sabre; now standing unmoved and pointing
+contemptuously at the cannon balls as they whizzed by his head, or at
+the shells as they exploded at his feet.
+
+Nevertheless, however confident the Arabs might feel in their young
+chief, however they might acknowledge that in him a master-spirit had
+arisen to conduct them in their struggle against the infidels, they felt
+that this desultory mode of attack was not war. They saw full well that
+without a responsible head to organise, to raise revenues by regular
+imposts, to husband resources, and to form and carry out a clearly
+defined plan of campaign, all their efforts would be abortive, all their
+sacrifices useless. At a grand meeting held at Mascara, these topics
+were earnestly discussed.
+
+Mehi-ed-deen, who was enjoying a short repose at the ketna, was invited
+to attend. Scarcely had he arrived and dismounted, when an excited
+throng surrounded him. A tumult of voices was raised. On all sides he
+was thus apostrophised,—“How long, O Mehi-ed-deen, are we to be left
+without a leader? How long will you remain a callous spectator of our
+distractions; you, whose name alone would suffice to rally all hearts,
+to encourage the desponding, to curb the malignant, to give strength and
+cohesion to the common cause? Already many of our bravest have fallen
+off in weariness and disgust. Who, they say, is to repair our losses, to
+replace our horses killed, our arms broken and useless? You, O Mehi-ed-
+deen, are answerable for all this.” Then, placing their swords at his
+breast, the chiefs exclaimed:—“Choose between being our Sultan or
+instant death.”
+
+Mehi-ed-deen, violently agitated, but still preserving his presence of
+mind, demanded to be heard. “You all know,” he said, “that I am a man of
+peace, devoting myself to the worship of God. The task of ruling
+involves the use of brute force and the shedding of blood. But since you
+insist on my being your Sultan, I consent; and abdicate in favour of my
+son, Abdel Kader.”
+
+This sudden and unexpected solution of the question was received with
+loud acclamations of approval. The name of Abdel Kader was repeated with
+enthusiasm. The character, the personal appearance, the manly bearing,
+the tried gallantry of the favourite son of Mehi-ed-deen, became the
+general topic of discourse. A horseman was forthwith despatched to bring
+him from the ketna.
+
+Early on the next morning, November 21st, 1832, Abdel Kader entered
+Mascara. All the streets and avenues leading to the town were thronged.
+Men, women, and children vied with each other in joyful demonstrations
+of welcome to their future Sultan. Ushered into the large court where
+the council was assembled, Abdel Kader was informed of all that had
+passed. Calm, self-collected, and unelated, he simply said, “It is my
+duty to obey the commands of my father.” A burst of applause followed
+this simple avowal of filial obedience and patriotic devotion.
+
+Placed in an antique chair of state, which had formerly belonged to some
+Spanish grandee, and which had been dragged forth from its musty recess
+for the occasion, the young Sultan, of twenty-five years of age,
+received the allegiance of the nobles and chiefs congregated around him.
+Loud shouts of “Long life and victory to our Sultan, Abdel Kader!” burst
+from the whole assembly. They were caught up and reiterated by the
+people from without, and thus heralded the inauguration of an Arabian
+Caliphate.
+
+In the afternoon Abdel Kader went to the Mosque, which was already
+crowded to suffocation. After performing his devotions, he stood up. A
+Koran was put into his hands. He read and expounded. By degrees his
+countenance became more animated, his voice more resonant, his manner
+more impressive, and his action more emphatic, as, leaving the language
+of disquisition, he passed to more noble and exalted themes.
+
+Not for minutes, but for hours, and until the sun had sunk below the
+horizon, did the soldier orator pour forth one continued stream of
+burning and impassioned eloquence. He expatiated, in heart-rending
+tones, on the sins, the iniquities, the crimes, the horrors which
+polluted the land. In vivid terms he depicted Heaven’s judgments
+overtaking a godless and vice-abandoned people; and now, again, he
+conjured up before the minds of his audience, in characters of flame,
+the appalling picture of their country ravaged by the infidel, their
+domestic hearths violated, their temples desecrated.
+
+The sensation of wonder and astonishment which had at first filled the
+breasts of his hearers, now rapidly changed into conscience-stricken
+feelings of shame, contrition, and remorse. But when, with outstretched
+arm and lightning glance, he called on his countrymen, in words which
+glowed with the fire of inspiration, to stand boldly forward in the
+sacred cause of God and the Prophet, to rally round the standard of the
+“Djehad,” and to emulate the glorious martyrs of the true faith; and
+then painted in vivid colours the liberated spirits of the slain
+entering the blissful mansions, they sprang to their feet, they shook
+their spears, they clashed their swords, they wept aloud, and with
+frantic cries yelled out, “Il Djehad! Il Djehad!”
+
+Exulting in his prowess, again and again did the consummate artist
+strike the chord, whose vibrations had thrilled every heart and
+enkindled every soul, and, as the frenzied voices rose louder and louder
+around him, his voice yet surged above them all. Gathering fresh impulse
+from the responsive acclamations of his hearers, he swayed to and fro.
+He smote his breast. Big drops of sweat suffused his brow. His eyes
+glistened and flashed. He flung his hands aloft, as though appealing to
+celestial witnesses. At last, so crushing and overpowering became his
+excitement, that Reason might have succumbed, had not Nature, by a
+copious flood of tears, relieved the fearful tension.
+
+The next day (November 22nd, 1832) Abdel Kader proceeded in state to the
+valley of Ersibia, ten minutes’ distance from Mascara. Ten thousand Arab
+cavalry were there in waiting to receive and welcome their newly-elected
+sovereign. They were arranged, according to their tribes, in one
+continuous crescent, around a splendid tent, which had been erected in
+the centre of the plain. The entire population of Mascara occupied the
+intervening ground.
+
+Just as the sun’s slanting rays peered over the heights of Djebel
+Nusmut, lighting up this scene as if by magic brightness, the shrill
+cries of the women, the shouts of the men, and incessant crashes of
+musketry, announced the approach of the royal cavalcade. First came a
+chosen band, escorting the standard of the Djehad. Then followed the
+chiefs of the Beni Amer, the Beni Mejaher, the Beni Yacoub, the Beni
+Abbas, on their high-mettled steeds, with their brilliant equipments,
+and well-burnished arms. Now appeared Abdel Kader—a plain, unornamented,
+red burnous flung over his shoulders, riding his favourite black
+charger. The chiefs of the Beni Hashem, his own tribe, brought up the
+rear of the splendid _cortège_.
+
+Passing on, as quickly as the crowd would permit—for some thronged round
+to kiss his hand, some the hem of his burnous, others even his horse’s
+feet—Abdel Kader reached the tent and dismounted. For some minutes he
+was lost to view. At length Mehi-ed-deen came forth, leading him by the
+hand, in order to present him to the people. “Behold the Sultan
+announced by prophecy!” he exclaimed. “Behold the son of Zohra! Obey him
+as you would have obeyed me. God protect the Sultan!” “Our lives, our
+properties, all that we have, are his!” shouted the people. “We will
+obey no law but that of our Sultan Abdel Kader.”
+
+“I, in my turn,” replied Abdel Kader, “will know no law but the Koran.
+By the precepts of the Koran, and the Koran alone, will I be guided. If
+my own brother forfeits his life by the Koran, he shall die.”
+
+Amidst the acclamations which saluted this short but pregnant speech,
+Abdel Kader vaulted into his saddle, and, followed by all his chiefs,
+swept at full speed along the Arab lines. At intervals he reined up,
+briefly ejaculating, “Il Djehad! Il Djehad! Liberty and independence are
+only in the Djehad. Paradise is in the shade of sabres. Rally round the
+standard of the Djehad!”
+
+The banners waved, the drums and trumpets sent forth their martial
+sounds, and the mighty mass, breaking ground, circled round their Sultan
+in successive squadrons, and then escorted him back to Mascara. After
+snatching a hasty meal, Abdel Kader shut himself up in a small room,
+and, summoning his secretaries, dictated the following proclamation:—
+
+“Praise be to God alone, and blessings and salutation from on high on
+him,[2] after whom there is no prophet.
+
+“To (such and such a tribe), and in particular to its nobles, sheiks,
+notables, and alemahs.
+
+“May God enlighten you, guide and direct your counsels, and give success
+to your deeds and actions. The citizens of the districts, Mascara, the
+Eastern and Western Gharees, and their neighbours and allies, the Beni
+Sokrân, El Borgiés, the Beni Abbas, the Yacoubiés, the Beni Amer, the
+Beni Mejaher, and others, have agreed unanimously to appoint me, and
+have accordingly appointed me, to the government of our country;
+pledging themselves to obey me in success and in distress, in prosperity
+and in adversity; and to consecrate their persons, their sons, and their
+properties to the great and holy cause.
+
+“We have, therefore, assumed this important charge (though with extreme
+reluctance), hoping it may be the means of uniting the great body of
+Moslems, of preventing dissensions amongst them, of affording general
+security to all dwellers in the land, of checking all acts of
+lawlessness on the part of the disorderly against the well-disposed, and
+of driving back and overcoming the enemy who has invaded our country
+with a view of placing their yoke upon our necks.
+
+“As a condition of our acceptance, we have imposed on those who have
+delegated to us the supreme power, the duty of always conforming, in all
+their actions, to the holy precepts and teaching of the book of God, and
+of administrating justice in their various spheres, according to the law
+of the Prophet; loyally and impartially, to the strong and the weak, the
+noble and the respectable. This condition has been accepted by them.
+
+“We hereby invite you to be partakers in this pledge, or compact,
+between ourselves and them. Hasten, therefore, to make manifest your
+allegiance and obedience; and may God prosper you in this world and in
+the world to come. My great object is to reform, and to do good as much
+as in me lies. My trust is in God; and from Him, and Him only, I expect
+reward and success.
+
+“By order of the Defender of Religion, our sovereign lord, the Prince of
+the Faithful, Abdel Kader-ibn-Mehi-ed-deen. May God give him the
+victory. Amen. Dated from Mascara, November 22, 1832.”
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER III.
+
+                                 1833.
+
+
+The appeal thus made by Abdel Kader was variously entertained by the
+different tribes to which it was addressed. The religious party was
+inclined to give its strenuous support to one who summoned them to fight
+for the faith. The men of worldly views and individual ambition looked
+with jealousy on such an assumption of sovereignty. Chiefs, who even
+under the Turkish rule had struggled to maintain an independent
+existence, felt little disposed to accept the mandates of a compeer,
+whose claims to an extended sway were in their eyes no better than their
+own.
+
+Even in the province of Oran, the imposing circumstances under which
+Abdel Kader had been installed, had excited party feelings rather than
+disarmed them. Sidi-il-Aribi, a powerful chieftain, whose influence was
+supreme over the tribe of the Flittas, in the valley of the Cheliff,
+spoke of the new power with undisguised contempt. El Ghomari, chief of
+the Beni Engad, held sternly aloof. Noona, who affected to hold Tlemsen
+for the Sultan of Morocco, felt it beneath him to give his adhesion.
+Mustapha-ibn-Ismail, an old and experienced warrior, grown grey in the
+Turkish service as leader of the _Maghzen_, scornfully disdained to kiss
+the hands, as he expressed it, of a beardless boy.
+
+As a contrast to these selfish views and circumscribed ambitions, Abdel
+Kader presented to his countrymen the one simple and majestic idea of an
+Arab nationality. Little as it might be at first comprehended and
+appreciated by a race accustomed for centuries to bow their necks to a
+foreign yoke, and in whom all principles of patriotism had long been
+extinguished, he trusted that amongst the hundreds of tribes which
+occupied Algeria there would be some, at least, in whom it would awake a
+responsive echo.
+
+On the other hand, though not a fanatic himself, Abdel Kader well knew
+the latent fires of fanaticism which slumber in every Moslem breast.
+What love of country would not effect, zeal for religion might surely
+accomplish. He determined, consequently, to make this latter feeling the
+key-stone to the mighty superstructure his genius alone had dared to
+imagine. In this unity of design consisted the grandeur of the drama he
+proposed to exhibit to the civilised world.
+
+He now issued invitations for a general rendezvous of forces at Mascara,
+in the spring of 1833. Many important tribes from the Tell and the
+Sahara responded cordially to the summons. Of the _Maghzen_ tribes, who
+had been so long the instruments of the Turks for the enslavement and
+oppression of their brethren, some sent evasive, some insulting answers.
+Anarchy was better suited to their sordid dispositions. They were ready,
+if occasion presented itself, to offer their mercenary swords to the
+French.
+
+On the day appointed—May 18th, 1833—an imposing array of 8,000 cavalry
+and 1,000 infantry assembled on the plains of Ersibia. Abdel Kader’s own
+standard, a large white flag, with an open hand in the centre, was
+unfurled before the multitude with great pomp and ceremony. After riding
+through the ranks, and apostrophising the assemblage in a few short,
+trenchant sentences, which caused the blood to thrill through their
+veins, he led them off to take the field in the direction of Oran.
+
+On this expedition he inaugurated that system, so conspicuous alike for
+its simplicity and its regularity, which he afterwards maintained under
+all changes and vicissitudes throughout his whole career. His tent was
+large and commodious, and displayed hangings adorned with red, blue,
+yellow, and green crescents. A woollen curtain divided it into two
+compartments. The largest of these was the _menzoul_, or general
+reception-room, open to all comers, and in which he heard appeals and
+administered justice. The smaller he used as his bedroom and library;
+and here he spent more time in reading than in sleeping.
+
+On alighting at the end of the day’s march, which was generally over by
+mid-day, he dismissed all his attendants, and retired into the strictest
+privacy, scrupulously devoting an hour to prayer. He then went into the
+_menzoul_, where his principal officers and secretaries were in waiting
+to receive him. The movements of the enemy and his own plans were now
+discussed, or orders and dispatches were dictated by himself. On these
+occasions he frequently supported his commands by appropriate quotations
+from the Koran. His ordinary military council consisted of four chiefs,
+a kehié, and his treasurer; but other chiefs were called in, if thought
+advisable. He listened to the suggestions of all with the greatest
+patience and urbanity.
+
+At sunset, Abdel Kader stood at the door of his tent, and preached. None
+were compelled to attend; but none, if possible, absented themselves
+from these discourses. Thence, as from a central source of light and
+heat, all daily received that warmth of warlike and religious zeal which
+glowed within their breasts. For Abdel Kader pre-eminently possessed the
+art of attracting the love and admiration of his followers; and he
+wielded with an almost magical power that talisman which is the gift, as
+it is the sign, of noble and exalted natures.
+
+For some weeks previous to Abdel Kader’s present advance on Oran, the
+Hashem Gharabas, his family tribe, had been engaged in a series of
+encounters with the French, under General Boyers. This general had
+lately been replaced by General Desmichels; and Abdel Kader came up just
+in time to assist his allies in resisting a vigorous attack made on them
+by the latter. Dividing his force into two portions, he sent one to fall
+on the enemy’s left flank, whilst, at the head of the other, he marched
+directly up to a fort which the French general had erected at a place
+called Figuier. The defence of this fort was supported by a battalion of
+infantry, a squadron of Chasseurs d’Afrique, and two pieces of
+artillery.
+
+On approaching the fort, the Arab infantry wavered. Abdel Kader at once
+sprang from his horse, and taking the lead on foot, attempted an
+escalade. Twice repulsed in his endeavours to take the fort, he
+remounted, and drawing off his men, rejoined his cavalry in the plain.
+There the French were utterly unable to resist the onset made upon them.
+Their lines of skirmishers were swept away, their squares broken. The
+engagement was prolonged till night, when Desmichels retreated under
+cover of the fire from his artillery. For some days there was a
+suspension of hostilities.
+
+Abdel Kader, impatient of inaction, proceeded one night with a hundred
+picked horsemen, and placed himself in ambush in a copse, a short
+distance from Oran, through which the French were accustomed to send
+their reliefs of cavalry to the outposts. At the ordinary hour, a
+squadron of Chasseurs made their appearance. Abdel Kader led on the
+charge, routed and dispersed them, slaying several, and taking thirty
+prisoners. One Chasseur made a thrust at him with his spear. The weapon
+passed under his left arm. He held it firmly between his left arm and
+side as in a vice, and with a swing of his sabre cut off the Frenchman’s
+head.
+
+In the _mêlée_ his cousin Achmet was shot down. Abdel Kader was by the
+side of his wounded relative in a moment. After stanching the blood and
+binding up his wound, he placed the sufferer before him on his horse,
+and carried him out of reach of danger. Shortly afterwards, seeing that
+the French were not disposed again to measure their swords with his, he
+drew off his whole force, and returned to Mascara.
+
+Abdel Kader had conducted this movement more with the intention of
+trying his men, and of inspiring them with confidence, than with the
+hopes of achieving any permanent result. He felt that the jealousies and
+rivalries which environed him could only be dispersed by the tumult of
+battle; and that all internal difficulties would vanish before success.
+His reception at Mascara fully confirmed this impression. Many chiefs
+who had hitherto withheld their allegiance, were there awaiting him.
+Hadj-ibn-Isa, a celebrated Marabout, alone brought with him deputations
+from twenty tribes in the Sahara.
+
+Abdel Kader, deeply impressed with the necessity of absolute union
+amongst his countrymen, to enable him to complete their common
+independence, now determined on smiting with the sword all who
+questioned or attempted to resist his power. Sidi-il-Aribi had been
+collecting forces, which, as he never hesitated to declare, were to be
+directed against the aspiring son of Mehi-ed-deen.
+
+Abdel Kader paid him an unexpected visit at the head of 5,000 men,
+announcing his approach by discharges of musketry and shouts of triumph.
+His rival was completely taken by surprise; and the defence he attempted
+was quickly paralysed. Tents were knocked over, prisoners made, flocks
+carried off. It was only by sending a written engagement of submission,
+and sending his son as a hostage to his conqueror, that the old chief
+obtained forgiveness of the past, and security for the future.
+
+On continuing his course through the vast valley of the Cheliff and the
+adjoining regions, Abdel Kader received the adhesion of several
+important tribes. He even advanced as far as the Ouarensis, a difficult
+mountain range, inhabited by fierce Kabyles. These stern republicans,
+secure in their fastnesses, and indifferent as to the doings of the
+outer world, were accustomed to scorn all authority. Uncertain as to
+their attitude, Abdel Kader refrained from pushing his expedition
+further. At a later period these very tribes obeyed him like children.
+
+Where no great feudal influences prevailed, the authority of Abdel Kader
+was promptly and even thankfully accepted. The small provincial towns at
+once opened their gates to him. His occupation of Arzew, situated two
+leagues from the port of that name, was marked by a circumstance which
+gave rise to reports reflecting both erroneously and injuriously on his
+character for humanity.
+
+He had issued the most stringent orders that no communications should be
+opened with the French. In direct violation of this order, Sidi Achmet-
+ibn-il-Taher, the Cadi of that town, had supplied the French with cattle
+and forage, and, what was considered a far graver crime, had even sold
+them horses. Abdel Kader had often written to him, warning him of the
+consequences of his conduct, and menacing him with exemplary punishment
+if he persisted in his proceedings. The Cadi, unable to give up the
+profit he was making by his transactions, and calculating on French
+protection, persevered. Abdel Kader one day suddenly dashed into the
+town. The Cadi was seized, loaded with chains, and conveyed to the
+prison at Mascara.
+
+Giving strict injunctions that nothing was for the present to be done to
+the delinquent, he rode off to the Beni Amers on matters which detained
+him several days. His private intentions were to allow the Cadi to
+ransom his life (justly forfeited by the law of the Koran) for 5,000
+francs. On his return to Mascara he found, to his surprise, that the
+Cadi had been put to death. Mehi-ed-deen had had him tried. He had been
+condemned to capital punishment, and the sentence had been carried into
+immediate execution. His eyes had been put out. The responsibility of
+this latter act of brutality, which was the spontaneous suggestion of
+one of the executioners, has been spitefully thrown by some on Abdel
+Kader.
+
+Fully comprehending that mere successes in the field would not be
+sufficient to consolidate his dominion, Abdel Kader now sought to place
+his sovereignty on a more solid basis, by holding places of strength,
+erecting arsenals, and establishing stores and magazines. With this view
+he attacked Tlemsen, about seventy miles to the south-west of Oran. This
+town is situated on an eminence at the foot of steep and lofty
+mountains. Its walls are remarkable for their thickness and solidity,
+and it had frequently withstood sieges.
+
+The mainspring of Abdel Kader’s strength at this epoch lay in the Beni
+Amers and the Hashems. Taking strong detachments from these tribes, he
+approached the town. Its population was divided into two parties, Turks
+and Kolouglis. The latter (descendants of Turkish and Arab parents)
+occupied the citadel. The Arabs were commanded by Noona, who has been
+already mentioned. Abdel Kader summoned the latter to surrender. He
+refused. The resistance which he offered was, however, quickly overcome;
+for while Abdel Kader assaulted him on one side, the Kolouglis opened
+fire on him from the citadel.
+
+When the town of Tlemsen was won, Abdel Kader treated its inhabitants
+with the greatest consideration. He had hoped that the Kolouglis would
+acknowledge him. But, secure in their stronghold, they rejected all his
+overtures. They consented, however, to maintain with him a friendly
+intercourse. Having no artillery wherewith to reduce them, he accepted
+the compromise, and installing one of his lieutenants as governor of the
+town, returned to Mascara.
+
+On the road he received tidings of his father’s death. Mehi-ed-deen had
+lived long enough to see his favourite son embarked in that career which
+he fondly hoped would be the prelude to his country’s freedom and
+independence. The bereaved son was deeply afflicted by the loss of a
+parent who had from his infancy lavished on him all the endearments of
+love and affection, who had always treated him as a bosom friend and
+companion, and to whose influence he in truth owed his high position.
+But, so far from having time to indulge in the temporary retirement from
+public affairs which his grief demanded, he was barely able to follow
+his father’s remains to the grave.
+
+Desmichels had just taken Arzew and Mostaganem. Abdel Kader had thus not
+a moment to lose. It was imperative on him to make every endeavour to
+nullify this extension of French dominion in the province of Oran. On
+the 2nd of August, 1833, he was under the walls of Mostaganem, and led
+an assault against it. Desmichels, leaving the garrison to defend
+itself, immediately returned to Oran. He hoped that the presence of
+Abdel Kader at Mostaganem would leave him free to carry out successfully
+an incursion he had long contemplated.
+
+On the 5th of August, the day after his arrival in Oran, consequently,
+he sent a force of 3,000 cavalry and infantry and three field-pieces to
+attack the Douairs and Zmelas, two tribes who were doing the French
+irreparable injury by the activity with which they were enforcing the
+blockade established by Abdel Kader. On the 6th, at daybreak, the column
+came upon the Arab encampments. The artillery opened, the infantry moved
+on at the double, the cavalry charged.
+
+The Arabs, surprised, bewildered and stupefied, made but a straggling
+and ineffectual defence. Finally they decamped, leaving their herds and
+their flocks, and many women and children, in the enemy’s hands.
+Suddenly their retrograde movement appeared, to the astonishment of the
+French, to be stopped; their numbers, as if by enchantment, to be
+increased; their attitude to have become offensive. Abdel Kader had
+arrived.
+
+Divining his adversary’s intention in leaving Mostaganem, he had ceased
+to superintend the siege in person, and had rushed to the point more
+directly menaced. He came up at the critical moment. It cost him little
+to turn the tide of battle. The French infantry beat a rapid retreat,
+some in hastily-formed squares, some in broken file; the cavalry
+maintained a flying flight; the artillery alone did good service.
+Anticipating an easy conquest, the French had not brought provisions.
+They were now driven from their spoil. The pangs of hunger and thirst
+assailed them. The scorching sun blazed over their heads. The Arabs
+presently enveloped them on all sides.
+
+“Fire the plains!” cried Abdel Kader. Instantly hundreds of horsemen
+galloped off, and lighted the dry herbs and brushwood extending behind
+the French rear. The unfortunate soldiery, retarded in their march by
+the wounded, whom they nobly refused to abandon, had to tread on burning
+cinders and wade through sheets of flame. Human nature sank beneath the
+trial. Many flung away their arms. Some were suffocated; others, in
+their despair, threw themselves frantically on the ground, eager to part
+with their lives, of which the Arab yataghans soon relieved them.
+
+Desmichels had been apprised by some fugitives of the disasters which
+had befallen the expedition. The whole garrison of Oran was promptly
+turned out to rush to the rescue. The troops barely reached the ground
+in time to save their comrades from utter annihilation.
+
+Abdel Kader, in the full flush of victory, returned without delay to
+hasten on the siege of Mostaganem. It is difficult to say whether most
+admiration should be bestowed on the boldness of his design, or on the
+courage and perseverance which so nearly accomplished it. Abdel Kader
+had no siege artillery; he possessed only infantry and cavalry. The
+infantry had already made themselves masters of the suburbs, and were
+attacking one of the forts close to the sea. A French brig galled them
+with its fire. The Arabs stripped, swam off, holding their muskets over
+their heads, and attempted to board it. They were driven off; but the
+fearless audacity thus displayed shows how much may be achieved by Arabs
+when commanded and inspired by a spirited leader. Abdel Kader had
+commenced sapping. The sap reached the foot of the walls. An explosion
+effected a breach. The order for a general assault was given. The Arabs,
+led on and animated by the voice and example of their Sultan, rolled on
+like a mighty wave, and like a wave, dashed and receded. The French,
+lining the tops of the wall on either side, poured in such a flanking
+fire on the assailants, that after a desperate struggle they were hurled
+back in confusion. Abdel Kader, finding his last resource exhausted,
+raised the siege and returned to Mascara.
+
+Though Abdel Kader had already done sufficient to justify and secure the
+confidence of his immediate companions in arms, and (despite the
+jealousies of certain chiefs) to centre on himself the hopes and good
+wishes of all the tribes within the province of Oran, yet the force of
+circumstances had compelled some of the latter, however anxious to rally
+round his standard, to submit to the invaders.
+
+The Douairs and Zmelas, constantly exposed, by their vicinity, to the
+incursions of the French, had suffered losses which the pardonable
+instincts of nature had induced them to repair by an apparently friendly
+accommodation with an enemy whom they inwardly detested. Strangers to
+that spirit of self-abnegation which true patriotism requires, they had
+consented to purchase a momentary tranquillity by accepting French
+protection. By a treaty with Desmichels they had established themselves
+under the French flag, in the valley of Miserghin, three leagues distant
+from Oran.
+
+The lofty policy of Abdel Kader could ill brook such a glaring violation
+of the clear and unequivocal injunctions of the Koran. That sacred
+volume neither countenanced nor admitted the principle of expediency. To
+conquer or to die, sword in hand, for the Faith, was its uncompromising
+and inexorable dogma. Zealous interpreter and dauntless defender of that
+soul-inspiring mandate in all its heroic greatness, Abdel Kader made it
+his imperative duty to uphold it with ceaseless and untiring vigilance,
+and to visit its slightest infraction with unsparing rigour.
+
+Independently of this superior and all-sufficient consideration, he well
+foresaw that if vicinity to the enemy was to be made the pretext for
+submission, and hardship and suffering the signal for treason, the views
+which he entertained for the working out of the salvation of his country
+would speedily be dissolved, his plans for its regeneration become
+illusory, and his utmost efforts for their realisation abortive. He knew
+that the edifice he was so laboriously erecting, thus breached at its
+very base, would crumble away like a rope of sand.
+
+He considered, consequently, that to condone, to overlook, or to excuse
+such weakness, whatever the plea advanced, would be tantamount to
+abandoning the trust which had been solemnly committed into his hands,
+and the task which he had sworn to accomplish. The alternative presented
+to him might be ungracious, it might be painful; but, calm and unshaken
+in the purity of his conscience, firm and confiding in the goodness of
+his cause, he accepted it.
+
+Whilst maintaining a bold front to the enemy, it might become incumbent
+on him so to act as to become an object of terror rather than of love,
+to hundreds, perhaps thousands, of his own countrymen. His severity
+might be called oppression, his exactions and punishments might be
+stigmatised as tyranny. But at whatever cost to the sufferers, at
+whatever detriment to his own popularity, he determined to make it
+understood and felt throughout the tribes, as a policy indispensable to
+the common welfare, that in him alone was vested the prerogatives of
+making peace, or signing conditions; he resolved, therefore, to impress
+on the minds of all the tribes, that if any accepted terms from the
+French on their own account, their last and heaviest account would be
+with him. The Douairs and Zmelas in due time experienced this correcting
+discipline.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IV.
+
+                                 1833.
+
+
+The enthusiasm excited in France by the taking of Algiers was of short
+duration. A revolution had overthrown the dynasty of the elder branch of
+the House of Bourbon, under whose auspices the conquest had been
+achieved. The dark cloud of hatred and execration which enveloped the
+departed tyranny, threw its ominous shadow over the glories of that
+brilliant feat of arms.
+
+Willingness to abandon the fruits of a triumph obtained under such
+circumstances became the prevalent feeling. In the French Chambers a
+large party denounced the contemplated occupation of Algeria as costly
+and useless. Some suggested that the sea-coast towns should be held, not
+so much with views of aggrandisement, as from a desire of saving the
+national honour.
+
+None understood, and few troubled themselves to investigate, the nature
+of the country which was the subject of debate. All knew that Algeria
+was a nest of pirates, that the governors were barbarous Turks, and that
+the government were degraded Arabs. But what was the condition of the
+interior, what were the manners, customs, and social characteristics of
+the people, what kind of government would best replace the one which had
+been overthrown, what system of administration should be adopted, no one
+attempted duly to consider. On all these points the ignorance and
+indifference was complete.
+
+Fluctuating in its plans, and unwilling to release its grasp, the French
+ministry, at an early period, reduced its army in Algeria to 10,000 men.
+For a long time afterwards, all its measures were marked by weakness and
+indecision. In the space of six years, no less than ten governor-
+generals were sent over to experimentalise on new theories of
+legislation. The thread of official experience was constantly broken by
+the arrival of successive neophytes in the art of governing. Each new
+actor appeared on the stage with his peculiar crotchets, which he
+crudely endeavoured to carry into execution.
+
+In the autumn of 1830, Marshal Clausel, the Governor-General, proposed
+to entrust the provinces of Oran and Tittery to princes of the family of
+the Bey of Tunis, on the condition of their becoming vassals of France.
+He gave Oran, accordingly, to Prince Sidi Achmet, for an annual tribute
+of one million francs. The prince, uncertain as to his reception by the
+Arabs of that province, prudently sent before him a deputy, named Heir-
+ed-deen, to feel the way. This functionary, on his arrival, found the
+city nearly deserted, and the magazines void of provisions.
+
+Nevertheless, he proceeded to feel his ground. He issued a proclamation
+to the Arabs, giving them the most flattering assurances of his future
+intentions. They were told that the French had not the slightest desire
+to interfere with their established usages and customs; that they would
+confine themselves to the occupation of the sea-coast towns; and that
+the tribes in the interior should be governed by native chiefs of their
+own selection. Some Arab sheiks, seduced by these promises, came in, and
+received pelisses, and other marks of honour. They returned to their
+tribes, but to become objects of ridicule. The plan proved utterly
+abortive. It neither awakened hopes, nor dispelled fears. After a few
+weeks, the agent of the prince withdrew.
+
+To the immense advantages which accrued to him from the fluctuations and
+failures which embarrassed the councils of the French government, Abdel
+Kader was daily adding those solid results which arose from his own
+energy and courage. The fruits of the impulse which he had imparted to
+his countrymen were becoming more apparent. Confidence, if not victory,
+followed everywhere in his train. The Arab character was developing
+long-concealed virtues from its inmost depths. Patience, constancy,
+perseverance, concentration of purpose, and a spirit of union, had all
+been summoned to the surface under the presiding genius of Abdel Kader.
+
+His principal care was to get rid of all the causes likely to endanger
+the common weal, or to disturb his general line of action. The edict
+which he had issued, forbidding all commercial transactions with the
+French, had borne heavily on some of the tribes, who had long been
+accustomed to trade with the towns now in French possession. The fruits
+of a traffic exercised from generation to generation, and the enormous
+profits actually reaped, were advantages not easily foregone. But, by
+the influence of certain Marabouts, who, by the order of Abdel Kader,
+were moving constantly amongst them, more patriotic feelings were made
+to prevail. The Arabs ceased to frequent the French markets.
+
+The system of blockade enforced by Abdel Kader had a telling effect on
+the French garrisons. They depended almost entirely on the Arabs for the
+necessaries of life. The sea brought them little or nothing, and only at
+rare intervals. Hence the nervous anxiety, leading to acts of violence,
+with which, like birds of prey, they scented and pounced upon their food
+in the interior. Whilst Desmichels was revolving in his mind in what
+manner he could, without lowering his dignity, bring about negotiations
+with Abdel Kader, and relieve him from his pressing wants and
+necessities, there occurred an event which opened the door to a
+transaction.
+
+Towards the end of October, 1833, an Arab, named Kudoor, of the Borgia
+tribe, came to Arzew and sold some cattle. On his departure he asked the
+French commanding officer to give him an escort, as he dreaded the
+Sultan’s scouts, whom he knew to be on the look-out. An escort of four
+horsemen was given him. At the distance of about a league from the town
+the escort was attacked by a large force of Arabs. One man was killed;
+the three others were taken prisoners and carried to Mascara.
+
+Desmichels, only too happy to have a plausible pretext for writing to
+Abdel Kader, now addressed him the following letter:—
+
+“I do not hesitate to make the first advances to you. My position,
+strictly speaking, does not allow me to do so, but humanity compels me.
+I reclaim the liberty of those Frenchmen who, while engaged in escorting
+an Arab, fell into an ambuscade. I cannot suppose that you will make
+their release dependent on conditions, since, when by the fate of war
+some of the Zmelas and Gharabas were not long since brought in to me, as
+prisoners, I at once sent them back to their tribes, without any
+stipulation, and treated them, moreover, with the greatest kindness.
+
+“If, therefore, you wish to be considered a great man, I hope you will
+not be behind me in generosity, and that you will immediately release
+the Frenchmen who are now in your power.”
+
+Abdel Kader returned the following reply:—
+
+“I have received the letter, in which you express your hope that the
+prisoners to whom you allude will be liberated. I understand its
+contents. You tell me that, notwithstanding your position, you have
+consented to make me the first advances. It was your duty to do so,
+according to the rules of war. Between enemies, each has his turn: one
+day the chances are for you, another for me. The mill turns for both,
+and always crushing new victims.
+
+“As for myself, when you have taken prisoners, I never troubled you with
+reclamations in their behalf. I was pained, as a man, for their unhappy
+fate; but, as a Mussulman, I looked upon their death, if it occurred, as
+a new life. You tell me that your Frenchmen were employed to protect an
+Arab. That is no reason with me. Protectors and protected were alike my
+enemies; and all Arabs who are found with you are bad believers,
+ignorant of their duty.
+
+“You boast that you gratuitously liberated some of the Gharabas and
+Zmelas. That is true. But you surprised men who were living under your
+protection, and who were actually supplying your own markets. Your
+troops robbed them of all they had. If, instead of falling on those who
+were doing you a service, you had advanced beyond your lines; if you had
+attacked men who were anxiously waiting for you, such as the Beni Amers
+and the Hashems, then you might, with justice, talk of your generosity,
+had you taken prisoners from them, and set them free.
+
+“Then you would have deserved the praises you claim for yourself for
+having pillaged the Zmelas, and setting about the report that I had
+fallen into your hands. When you march two days beyond the walls of Oran
+I hope we shall behold each other; and then it will be seen which of us
+will remain master of the field.”
+
+This haughty challenge would, under other circumstances, have aroused in
+the breast of the French general the loftiest feelings of chivalry. The
+drums would have been beat, the trumpets sounded, the standards
+fluttered, and the Arab champion would have been swiftly summoned to the
+test. Desmichels retorted by again attacking and plundering the Douairs
+and Zmelas. Abdel Kader was amongst the Beni Amers when he heard of the
+incursion.
+
+He was instantly at the head of 5,000 cavalry, and rushed to the rescue.
+With slackened reins and thundering hoofs, the Arab horse traversed a
+distance of fifty miles in less than three hours. Not more than one-half
+of the men, on his arrival, were fit for duty. But with these troops
+Abdel Kader charged. The French, utterly confounded by this unexpected
+apparition, hastily retreated, abandoning the women and children, whom
+they had taken with them, as hostages. Fresh troops come up to their
+relief, with more pieces of artillery; but, despite the galling fire to
+which he was exposed, Abdel Kader followed up the enemy, and hovered
+round them, to the very outskirts of Oran.
+
+On his return to the Arab encampment he ordered the Douairs and Zmelas
+to prepare for immediate departure from a spot where temptations to
+transgress his edict were constantly held out to them, and where they
+were as continually exposed to vile and cruel assaults. He marched them
+off, with all their flocks and herds, and located them on a large plain
+behind Tlemsen.
+
+Desmichels, paralysed by the boldness and ubiquity of his redoubtable
+foe, and finding his resources failing, his supplies cut off, and famine
+ready to swoop down on his men, saw no alternative before him but
+evacuation or peace. In this dire necessity he thus appealed to Abdel
+Kader:—
+
+“You will never find me deaf to any sentiments of generosity, and if it
+would be convenient to you to grant me an interview, I am quite ready to
+consent, in the hope that we may be able, by the most sacred and solemn
+treaties, to stop the effusion of blood between two peoples destined by
+Providence to live under the same dominion.”
+
+Abdel Kader seeing his adversary in the attitude of a suppliant,
+affected indifference. He left the letter unanswered. At the same time
+he employed a Jew, named Mordecai Amar, his agent at Oran, to pacify the
+French general with excuses, if any complaint were made as to his
+silence, and to suggest the advisability of more explicit and
+categorical propositions. After a month had transpired, Desmichels
+penned a third dispatch:—
+
+“Not having received any answer to the letter I lately wrote to you, I
+prefer supposing that it has never reached you, to imagining that you
+have not chosen to give it your attention.”
+
+The general terminated his reasonings by imploring for peace as
+follows:—“If you wish to maintain the exalted position to which
+circumstances have raised you, in my opinion you could not do better
+than accept my invitation, in order that the tribes may devote
+themselves to the cultivation of their lands, and enjoy the fruits and
+the blessings of peace, under the shadow of treaties binding us firmly
+together.”
+
+The young and victorious Sultan, with this document in his hand, could
+now show his subjects that the enemy had been the first to crave for a
+suspension of hostilities. There was no occasion for any further delay,
+and he sent the following answer:—
+
+“I have received your letter, and fully understand its contents. It
+gives me great satisfaction to find that your sentiments agree with
+mine. I feel quite assured of your loyal intentions; and you may feel
+assured that any engagements into which we may enter shall be faithfully
+observed on my part. I send you two superior officers of my army—Miloud
+ibn Arasch and Ould Mahmoud. They will confer, outside Oran, with
+Mordecai Amar, and will make known to him any proposition. If you accept
+them, you can send him on to me, and then we will draw up a treaty,
+which shall obliterate the hatred and enmity now severing us from each
+other, and replace them by an indissoluble friendship. You may count
+upon me, for I have never been unfaithful to my word.”
+
+The proposed interview took place February 4, 1834. The Jew Amar was
+accompanied by the whole of the French staff. A long discussion ensued
+on various propositions made by Desmichels. The Sultan’s agent, Ibn
+Arasch, then left, saying he would report what had passed to his master,
+and return. He took with him a paper containing a draft of the
+propositions, but without the general’s signature.
+
+On the 25th, Ibn Arasch returned to Oran, bearing this draft, approved
+and sealed by Abdel Kader, with another paper, containing the
+propositions of Abdel Kader. He was instructed not to deliver the former
+until the latter had been signed and sealed by Desmichels. Abdel Kader
+conceived that these documents, mutually exchanged, would constitute the
+Treaty. Their substance was as follows:—
+
+                   CONDITIONS OF GENERAL DESMICHELS.
+
+“1. Hostilities shall cease between the French and the Arabs from this
+day.
+
+“2. The religion and usages of the Mussulmans shall be respected.
+
+“3. French prisoners shall be given up.
+
+“4. The markets shall be free.
+
+“5. Every French deserter shall be given up by the Arabs.
+
+“6. Every Christian travelling in the interior shall be furnished with a
+passport sealed with the seal of Abdel Kader’s consul, and that of the
+General.”
+
+                 CONDITIONS OF THE SULTAN ABDEL KADER.
+
+“1. The Arabs shall be at liberty to buy and sell powder, arms, sulphur;
+in a word, everything necessary for war.
+
+“2. The commerce of the port of Arzew shall be under the jurisdiction of
+the Prince of the Faithful. No cargoes shall be shipped except in that
+port. Mostaganem and Oran shall merely receive such articles of
+merchandise as are necessary for the wants of their inhabitants. To this
+there shall be no opposition. Those who wish to ship goods must repair
+to Arzew.
+
+“3. The General shall give us up all deserters in chains. He shall not
+harbour criminals. The general commanding at Algiers shall have no power
+over Arabs who may come to him with the consent of their chiefs.
+
+“4. No Mussulman shall be prevented returning home when he wishes.”
+
+
+To the paper containing these conditions of Abdel Kader, Desmichels, who
+dreaded nothing so much as the breaking off of the negotiation, at once
+affixed his seal and signature. The former naturally thought that, by
+virtue of the 2nd Article, he had secured a monopoly of commerce.
+
+On the 26th February, 1834, Desmichels proposed to Ibn Arasch, that a
+homogeneous treaty should be drawn up, embodying the substance of both
+documents, but stating the French conditions more at large. Ibn Arasch
+made no difficulty, never conceiving for a moment that such a document
+could be intended to abrogate the conditions already conceded to his
+master, in the paper which had just been signed and sealed by the
+general. Hence arose the “Treaty of Desmichels,” which afterwards gave
+rise to so many difficulties and complications.
+
+           TREATY OF GENERAL DESMICHELS, _February_ 26, 1834.
+
+“The General commanding the French troops in the town of Oran, and the
+Prince of the Faithful, Sidi-il-Hadj Abdel Kader-ibn-Mehi-ed-deen, have
+decided on the following conditions:—
+
+“Art. 1.—Hostilities shall cease between the French and the Arabs from
+this day. The General commanding the French troops and the Emir Abdel
+Kader will neglect nothing to maintain that union and friendship which
+ought to exist between two peoples, destined by God to live under the
+same dominion. To this end, representatives on the part of the Emir
+shall reside at Oran, Mostaganem, and Arzew; and, to prevent collisions
+between the French and the Arabs, French officers shall reside at
+Mascara.
+
+“Art. 2.—The religion and usages of the Arabs shall be respected.
+
+“Art. 3.—All prisoners shall be immediately given up, both on one side
+and the other.
+
+“Art. 4.—Freedom of commerce shall be complete and entire.
+
+“Art. 5.—Military men belonging to the French army, who desert their
+colours, shall be brought back by the Arabs. In like manner, all Arab
+malefactors, who, to avoid punishment, fly from their tribes and seek
+refuge with the French, shall be immediately seized and delivered over
+to the Emir’s representative, in the three maritime towns occupied by
+the French.
+
+“Art. 6.—Every European, having occasion to travel in the interior,
+shall be furnished with a passport countersigned by the representatives
+of the Emir, and approved by the General in command, in order that they
+may find assistance and protection throughout the province.”
+
+
+These conditions, written in parallel columns of Arab and French, were
+signed and sealed by both parties. Nothing is said in this treaty of a
+monopoly of commerce. But Abdel Kader had his bond, and was content.
+Desmichels, proud of what he considered a diplomatic triumph, hastened
+to send the grateful tidings of a peace to the French ministry, and
+allowed himself to indulge in the following strain:—
+
+“I have to announce to you the _submission_ of the province of Oran, the
+most considerable and warlike of the regency. This great event is the
+result of the advantages which have been obtained by the troops of my
+division.”
+
+Abdel Kader might well repose on his laurels. He had compelled his enemy
+to sue for peace; he had made his own terms; he paid no tribute; his
+territory was not limited; the French general had acknowledged his
+independence by offering him the power to appoint and receive consuls.
+The French were to load at one port alone, and were to submit to his
+tariff.
+
+In virtue of the monopoly secured to him by his own terms, Abdel Kader
+now issued orders, prohibiting the Arabs from selling corn, or barley,
+or agricultural produce, of any kind whatever, to Christians, whether
+native or foreign. His agents were declared to be the sole authorised
+buyers and sellers, and by them the prices in the markets were to be
+fixed.
+
+The French merchants at Arzew complained loudly to Desmichels of the
+restriction. Abdel Kader appealed to his bond. Desmichels affected to
+ignore it. He adhered to his homogeneous treaty, in which commerce was
+declared free. Abdel Kader agreed to the test, but contended that though
+the market _places_ (or _sook_) were free, he had the sole right of
+supplying them.
+
+One of the French merchants, acting upon the view of the question, as
+put forward by the French general, bought a large quantity of corn and
+barley from an Arab of the tribe of Hamian. The agent of Abdel Kader
+went over and seized it. The merchant complained to the French local
+authorities, but he was told that no interference could be tolerated
+with the regulations of the Emir.
+
+Desmichels, embarrassed with fresh complaints, and pressed for
+explanation by General Voirol, the governor-general, to whom all this
+misunderstanding was utterly incomprehensible, adopted a middle course.
+He declared that the authorisation given to the Emir to make a monopoly
+of grain, extended only to the grain raised on his own private property.
+Abdel Kader ridiculed the subterfuge. He knew nothing of the exclusive
+interpretation which Desmichels chose to put upon his treaty; he only
+knew that he had the General’s seal and signature to a document granting
+him a monopoly; and this monopoly he was determined to enact. The French
+were not in a position to dispute his verdict; and he carried his point.
+
+Abdel Kader, free at length from external molestation, devoted his
+earnest attention to the internal affairs of his kingdom. Difficulties
+and trials were yet before him. Jealousy of his successes on the part of
+some, envy at the eminence he had attained on the part of others,
+insinuations malevolently propagated by his rivals, and readily
+entertained by the fanatical party, that he had betrayed the sacred
+cause by making peace with the infidels—all combined, as disturbing
+elements, to affect, more or less, the stability of his government.
+
+But his retort was ready. To the taunting demand, “Where is now the
+leader of the Djehad—where the lofty tone which breathed nothing but
+battle and defiance, and invoked death rather than submission?” he
+replied by calmly pointing to the French garrisons, confined to the
+walls on which their cannon was planted; to the plains freed from
+infidel marauders; to the cities unmolested by Frank invaders; and, more
+than all, to a treaty, dictated at his sword’s point, which now, for the
+first time in the lapse of ages, gave good warranty for hopes of Arab
+freedom, and which promised to be the basis of Arab independence.
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER V.
+
+                                 1834.
+
+
+Abdel Kader now entered on the task of organisation. He trusted but
+little to the pacific professions of the French, and looked on the
+present cessation of hostilities merely as an armed truce. He resolved,
+consequently, to make use of the breathing time thus afforded, in
+maturing his plans, husbanding his resources, and preparing for future
+battles. Declaring the Djehad to be only suspended, not abandoned, he
+issued his usual edict for the collection of the war-tribute, consisting
+of the _ashur_, or tenth of all agricultural produce, and the _zekka_,
+or tax on cattle.
+
+To his astonishment, the most faithful of all his tribes, his most
+zealous adherents, the very men who had been the guardians and
+supporters of his nascent power, and by whose aid he had been enabled to
+inflict his most deadly blows, refused obedience. The Beni Amers
+asserted that cessation of impost was, in their eyes, the legitimate
+consequence of cessation of war.
+
+Abdel Kader hesitated not a moment. The Beni Amers must be attacked.
+Writing to Mustapha-ibn-Ismail at Tlemsen, he ordered him to prepare the
+Douairs and Zmelas for instant action. That old and wily leader of the
+Turkish _Maghzen_, desiring nothing better than to have an opportunity
+of falling on his old and mortal enemies, and rejoicing in the prospect
+of plunder, joyfully accepted the summons, and boastfully enlarged on
+the loyalty of his tribes. An unexpected incident turned the tide of
+events.
+
+As Abdel Kader was preaching one Friday, as was his wont, in the mosque
+of Mascara, his eye lighted on some of the Beni Amer Sheiks. Suddenly
+turning the stream of his eloquence, he thus apostrophised them:—“Were
+not you, O Beni Amers, the first to call me to the post I now hold? Were
+not you the first to implore me to establish a regular government, which
+should inspire the good with confidence, and the wicked with terror?
+
+“Did you not solemnly pledge your lives, your properties, and all that
+you held most dear and sacred, to assist and strengthen me in the
+arduous task? And will you be the first to abandon the common cause, the
+first, by your example, to countenance and encourage conspiracies
+against the very government you invoked? How can any government be
+carried on without taxes, how maintained without the cordial union and
+support of all?
+
+“Think you that the smallest coin of the tribute which I demand, will
+ever be appropriated to my personal or family expenses? You all know
+that my paternal property suffices for my own needs. What I demand is
+what the law of the Prophet renders it imperative on you, as good
+Mussulmans, to give; and in my hands, I solemnly swear, it will be held
+as a sacred trust, for the triumph of the faith!”
+
+Moved by this frank appeal, the Beni Amer Sheiks demanded a conference.
+The throng pressed around them. All ranks and ages joined their
+entreaties to effect an accommodation. Thus surrounded, the Sheiks
+advanced towards their young Sultan, and kissed his hand. In the name of
+their tribe, they promised to pay the tribute. Orders were forthwith
+despatched to Mustapha to suspend his march on the Beni Amers.
+
+Three days afterwards, a horseman came riding in at full speed, to say
+that Mustapha had, notwithstanding, commenced an attack. Abdel Kader,
+hastily gathering together such horsemen as were within reach, galloped
+off to the scene of action.
+
+On arriving, he sent word to Mustapha to withdraw. On his refusal to
+obey the order, Abdel Kader advanced to charge his recalcitrant chief. A
+few only of the Beni Amers followed. After a desperate skirmish, Abdel
+Kader had the mortification to see his men dispersed, and flying before
+superior numbers. A handful of men alone remained to rally round his
+person. Animated by the example of their chief, they fought with
+desperation. Nearly all were killed, or dismounted. At last, after
+performing prodigies of valour, Abdel Kader, his burnous riddled with
+bullets, and his horse covered with wounds, cut his way through the
+hostile ranks which closed him in, and galloped back to Mascara. He
+reached it late at night—alone.
+
+Abdel Kader defeated by the Arabs! The news spread like wildfire. In an
+instant all slumbering rivalries were aroused. Sidi-il-Aribi raised the
+standard of revolt. El Gomari, and the Beni Engad, prepared to join Sidi
+Hamadi, the Governor of Tlemsen, who entered into correspondence with
+Mustapha.
+
+The tidings of these defections, so far from oppressing the soul of
+Abdel Kader with despondency, only nerved him with fresh vigour. The
+Hashem Gharabas, the Mejahers, the Beni Abbas, were staunch. The Beni
+Amers had confirmed the adhesion given in by their Sheiks, at Mascara.
+He could wield a force of 15,000 cavalry. With a large proportion of
+these he at once took the field.
+
+Mustapha had led off the Douairs and Zmelas to their old campaigning
+ground near Oran, in the hopes of propitiating the French, and getting
+their support. To his disgust, he was warned by the latter of the
+consequences which would ensue if he persisted in rebelling against
+Abdel Kader, the ally of France.
+
+Desmichels had found out by bitter experience, the impossibility of
+conquering the province of Oran, with such forces as his government had
+placed at his disposal. The plan of raising up a native power to supply
+this deficiency, and to assist in extending the French dominions, either
+as vassals or allies, seemed to him to afford the easiest method for
+escaping from a serious dilemma. He was dazzled by the great and
+commanding qualities displayed by Abdel Kader, and always took a
+pleasure in extolling his heroism, his prowess, and even his
+generalship. He seemed almost to envy and covet his glory.
+
+Desmichels was known to have frequently declared that he would make the
+young Arab Emir all powerful, from the frontiers of Morocco to the
+frontiers of Tunis. No doubt this declaration was made with the mental
+reserve that the gallant chief should only be so as the vassal of
+France. Abdel Kader, fully understanding the profitable tendency to
+himself of this exuberant admiration, cared not to dispel an illusion
+which marvellously promoted his own designs. He was secretly bent,
+however, on preserving a perfectly independent position, and on
+confining his allies to their counting-houses on the sea-coast.
+
+Mustapha having been thus kept in check, Abdel Kader fell with his whole
+force upon Sidi-il-Aribi, enveloped him in a crushing defeat, and took
+him prisoner. At the same time he inflicted on the rebellious tribes a
+signal chastisement, and collected all the arrears of tribute. Flushed
+by this victory, he now sought out Mustapha. He met him on the plains of
+Mahraz, July 13, 1834. The battle between the hostile chiefs raged for
+some hours with alternate success. At last, both sides, worn out with
+fatigue, and fainting with the heat, drew breath.
+
+Abdel Kader seized the moment to send some Marabouts through the enemy’s
+ranks, to offer terms. Mustapha, fearing an attack from the French, who
+had advanced as far as the camp of Miserghin, and were in observation,
+was nothing loath to listen to any propositions which might relieve him
+from his perilous situation. Though declining a personal meeting with
+Abdel Kader, he sent him his charger in token of reconciliation.
+
+Abdel Kader now marched upon Tlemsen. His appearance before that town,
+with all the prestige of victory, at once annihilated the intrigues of
+which that place had been the focus. His faithless lieutenant, Sidi
+Hamadi, was seized and imprisoned, but afterwards generously pardoned,
+although not allowed to retain his post. This was conferred on Noona,
+who after his late defeat had fled to Morocco, and had returned, bearing
+letters of recommendation from the Moorish Sultan.
+
+Abdel Kader entered Mascara in triumph. Two events had occurred during
+his absence, which materially aided him. El Gomari, chief of the Beni
+Engad, had been tried before a tribunal, and shot; and Sidi-il-Aribi had
+died in prison. Freed from these rivals, and unimpeded by internal
+faction, he was again at liberty to carry out his measures of general
+administration.
+
+The province of Oran was divided into two great districts, and placed
+under khalifas, or lieutenants. That of the east, subdivided into seven
+agalicks, and having Mascara as the seat of government, was placed under
+the command of the Sultan’s brother-in-law, Mustapha-ibn-Tamy. That of
+the west, with Tlemsen for its capital, was entrusted to Bou Hamadi.
+Every tribe was held responsible for the peace and good order of its
+locality. Weekly reports were required, as to the amount of cattle,
+beasts of burden, and horses fit for service in each agalick. A Cadi,
+appointed by the Sultan, and paid out of the public treasury, was sent
+to each of the tribes, to administer justice.
+
+A body of regulars was raised, consisting both of cavalry and infantry.
+The latter were drilled and instructed by French non-commissioned
+officers, who had been allowed to offer their services for that purpose.
+Cannon-foundries, powder-mills, and manufactories of small arms, were
+established and superintended by European artisans. The Arabs wondered
+at these strange and novel proceedings. They felt that a new order of
+things had suddenly fallen on them.
+
+This, together with the vigilance with which crimes were detected, and
+the certainty and severity of its punishment, soon had its effect on the
+community. The entire province, which eighteen months previously had
+been a prey to every kind of anarchy and confusion, now enjoyed the most
+thorough tranquillity. So complete was the feeling of security which
+existed in all parts, that, to use the favourite Arab illustration of
+the perfection of good government, “A girl might have travelled the
+length and breadth of the land with a casket of diamonds on her head,
+without fear of molestation.”
+
+Abdel Kader’s fame had now spread through Algeria. It was generally
+felt, that a man had arisen who had not only shown himself capable of
+preserving order within, but who, by his skill and daring, had succeeded
+in imposing conditions on the infidels from without. The eyes of all the
+well-disposed naturally turned towards one who had achieved such signal
+results.
+
+The inhabitants of Medea and Miliana, the principal towns in the
+province of Tittery, sent deputations to Abdel Kader, begging him to do
+for their province what he had already done for the province of Oran.
+Had he been free to act on his own inspirations, forty-eight hours would
+not have elapsed before he had been on the march in compliance with
+their request. The invitation was not only flattering to his pride, as
+showing the influence his name exercised over parties utterly unknown to
+him, but offered—what in his eyes was its strongest inducement—a further
+opening for the prosecution of the great object he had in view, the
+establishment of a widely-extended Arab nationality.
+
+The Treaty of Desmichels in no way precluded him from entering Tittery;
+for that treaty had not confined him within any prescribed limits. Still
+he was not disposed to undertake the enterprise without first
+ascertaining how such a step would be viewed by the French authorities.
+Contenting himself, therefore, for the present, with replying to the
+deputations, that he required time to consider their demands, he
+proceeded to fathom the thoughts of Count D’Erlon, the new Governor-
+General, on the momentous topic. The recent arrival of that personage
+gave him an opportunity of broaching the delicate question without
+appearing to make it a special subject of negotiation.
+
+Under the garb of a letter of felicitation to the general on his
+appointment, the following feeler was adroitly put forward:—“The Kaid,
+Miloud ibn Arasch, will give you every particular about us. I have
+instructed him to ascertain your views as to the best manner of
+establishing tranquillity in all the districts, whether maritime or in
+the interior, along the coasts between Algiers and Oran, and in the
+plains and the mountains, from Tlemsen and Mascara, _up to Medea and
+Miliana_.”
+
+Count D’Erlon had come to assume the arduous and responsible duties
+which now devolved upon him, without any clear instructions, and without
+any additional force. The French government, still uncertain as to its
+European relations, had neither money nor troops to spare for the
+prosecution of an Algerian war on a great scale. A vague idea possessed
+it that Abdel Kader was the ladder by which the French were to scale the
+heights of the Atlas. To keep on good terms with this influential chief
+was, consequently, at this period, a cardinal point of French policy.
+
+Accordingly, the reply of Count D’Erlon to Abdel Kader consisted of
+vague generalities, and Was altogether couched in such terms, that the
+latter had every ground to believe no measures would be taken to oppose
+his proposed step if he only had the boldness to take it. Still he felt
+the necessity of having his actual rights confirmed by the new Governor-
+General before assuming new ones; and to this end he sent the document
+containing his own terms, which had been duly signed and sealed by
+Desmichels, as above related, to the Count, for his perusal.
+
+D’Erlon, to whom even the existence of such a document was unknown, as
+it had never been notified to the French Government, was thunder-struck.
+Here was a French general, who had taken upon himself to sign a secret
+treaty, giving solid and exclusive advantages to an enemy whose
+hostility had not been disarmed, and whose friendship was doubtful. His
+representations to the French ministry relative to this extraordinary
+procedure were such, that they were speedily followed by the recall of
+Desmichels from Oran.
+
+At the same time he thus gave his opinion to Abdel Kader on the
+subject:—“I would wish you to observe, that General Desmichels had no
+power or jurisdiction, except in the province of Oran, and that he could
+in nowise make any stipulations as regards any other part of the
+regency. Even by giving the widest interpretation to the Treaty made
+between you and him, in February, 1834, you can have no pretensions
+beyond the province of Oran, limited as it has been by the sovereign
+power of France.
+
+“My desire for the present is, that you should not cross the lower
+Cheliff, towards the east. If you govern the territory you now possess
+according to Mohammedan laws, and with strict justice, we shall be
+friends; but we cannot allow you to enter the province of Tittery. What
+passes there is my concern. I am not at war with its inhabitants; I have
+no fixed project of making establishments at Blidah and Bouffarick, but
+whenever I think it for the interest of France to do so, I shall allow
+no one to embarrass me.”
+
+Abdel Kader paused for the present before such an interdict. Besides,
+disturbances amongst the Flittas, in the valley of the Cheliff, excited
+against him by the sons of Sidi-il-Aribi, called for his immediate
+presence in that direction.
+
+While engaged in appeasing these troubles, he was surprised by the
+information that a certain Hadj Mousa, a shereef from the Sahara, had
+entered Medea, and had been warmly received by a large portion of the
+population. After waiting for a time to see what steps would be taken by
+the French Governor-General, and finding that no opposition to the
+assumptions of this adventurer was offered on the part of Count D’Erlon,
+Abdel Kader determined to exercise full liberty of action. If a shereef
+from the desert might snatch a province, why not he? Fortune is the
+friend of the bold, and the world is for him who will seize it. He
+dashed across the Cheliff, and marched on Medea, followed by all the
+cavalry contingents of Oran, two battalions of regular infantry, and
+four pieces of cannon. Cæsar had crossed the Rubicon.
+
+Hadj Mousa came out to meet him, prophesying that God would give him the
+victory, and that the cannon of Abdel Kader would not go off. Abdel
+Kader replied that if, indeed, his cannon did not go off, he would
+acknowledge a divine interposition, and withdraw. The battle was gained,
+and the prophet and pretender was completely defeated. Abdel Kader took
+possession, amidst general exultation, of the province of Tittery, and
+appointed Khalifas at Medea and Miliana.
+
+General Trezel, who had replaced Desmichels at Oran, proposed to reply
+to this movement of Abdel Kader by seizing Mascara. D’Erlon temporised.
+He was neither authorised nor prepared to commence hostilities. He even
+condescended to treat with Abdel Kader in the very town he had occupied
+in direct violation of his prohibition. Captain St. Hippolyte was sent
+to him, bearer of the following draft of a treaty:—
+
+1. Acknowledgment of the sovereignty of France.
+
+2. Precise definition of the power of the Emir, which is to be exercised
+in the province of Oran alone, bounded on the east by the Cheliff, from
+its mouth to its confluence with the Wady Riou, and by the river of that
+name up to Godjidah.
+
+3. Right of French and all Europeans to travel in the province of Oran.
+
+4. Entire freedom of commerce in the interior.
+
+5. Engagement on the part of the Emir not to export, except in ports
+occupied by the French.
+
+6. Tribute to be paid by Abdel Kader, and hostages to be given by him.
+The tribute to be considered a mark of his acknowledgment of French
+sovereignty.
+
+A treaty which thus abrogated, by a stroke of the pen, all the rights
+and privileges his own good sword had obtained, might apparently have
+been regarded by Abdel Kader as an insult or a defiance. But, in
+reality, it was the result of his own diplomacy. He had learned to
+appreciate the value and importance of the power to make treaties. He
+knew that this power implied an independent position, whether for
+proposing or accepting terms. Already a French general had, by treaty,
+acknowledged and confirmed his right to an independent sway, had saluted
+him as Emir, and Prince of the Faithful, or Sultan.
+
+Negotiations once opened with the new Governor-General might lead to
+similar concessions. What the nature of the propositions, presented to
+him in the first instance, might be, was to him a matter of supreme
+indifference. What he wanted, and what he earnestly urged his agent at
+Algiers to obtain from D’Erlon, was a treaty. He trusted to the chapter
+of accidents to mould any fresh negotiation to his own wishes.
+
+The employment of well-paid spies introduced him into the most secret
+councils of the French authorities. Able and crafty agents, accredited
+to the responsible heads of the French administration, in its various
+centres of action, were made the means of promoting his views and
+advancing his interests. These agents were instructed to gain the
+confidence of all important personages; to be always about them on some
+pretence or other; to be constantly extolling their master’s merits; and
+enlarging on his talents for administration; to speak loudly of his
+extraordinary influence in the country; and, finally, to insinuate the
+immense advantages which would accrue to France by having such a pioneer
+in the path of conquest.
+
+A Jew, of the name of Durand, had performed all these functions, at
+Algiers, with rare ability. He had easily contrived to get the ear of
+D’Erlon. He was consulted by him in all affairs of moment connected with
+the internal government of the regency. He had gradually impressed him
+with a favourable opinion of his master; and he succeeded, finally, in
+drawing him into the current of credulous expectation with regard to the
+conduct of Abdel Kader, which had carried away more than one of his
+predecessors. In the meantime, he had wormed out of him the foregoing
+treaty, and was commissioned to accompany the bearer of it to Medea.
+
+There, though the treaty met with very little ceremony or attention, the
+bearer of the treaty received the most striking marks of friendship and
+hospitality. A grand review was held; and the French envoy gazed with
+dubious admiration on the nucleus of an Arab army. He was invited to
+accompany the Sultan on a tour of inspection about to be made through
+the provinces of Tittery and Oran. The offer was accepted; and Captain
+St. Hippolyte and the Jew Durand figured conspicuously in the royal
+suite.
+
+Abdel Kader made the most of his time. Purposely going into those
+districts which had recently shown symptoms of disaffection, or were
+wavering in their allegiance to him, he secretly enjoyed the impression
+made on the tribes by the French uniform. What, they thought, must be
+the power of a chief who had made the infidels his vassals, and who
+could, no doubt, at any moment summon their armies to march to the
+support of his throne? Any resistance to such a potentate would be mere
+madness. Unqualified submission was their best and only alternative.
+
+On reaching Mascara, fresh tokens of politeness and cordiality awaited
+the distinguished guests. On the third day after their arrival, Abdel
+Kader put his own treaty into their hands. It was to this effect:—
+
+1. The provinces which are under the dominion of the Prince of the
+Faithful, and which are in submission, shall remain dependent on him. In
+like manner the country which the Governor-General actually holds shall
+remain under his dominion.
+
+2. Whenever the Emir shall think fit to appoint or to remove the
+Governors of Medea and Miliana, he will inform the Governor-General,
+that he may take note of the fact; and also make those functionaries the
+medium of any dispatch or communication he may have to convey to him.
+
+3. Freedom of commerce for all. The Arabs shall be respected in the
+markets by the French, and the French by the Arabs, in all the provinces
+under the dominion of the Emir.
+
+4. The Prince of the Faithful shall buy at Algiers, through his agent,
+everything he requires in the shape of mortars, muskets, powder, and
+sulphur.
+
+5. The Emir shall give up to the French all deserters; and the Governor-
+General will act similarly towards the Emir.
+
+6. If the Emir projects a tour towards Constantine or elsewhere, he will
+inform the Governor-General of his intention and of his motive for doing
+so.
+
+A treaty so ridiculously contrasting with the one sent for his
+acceptance by the French Governor-General, and which, so far from
+limiting his power, proposed to allow him to leap at one bound, from the
+gates of Oran to those of Constantine, and to make the French themselves
+the complaisant approvers of this encroachment, was certainly one which
+the Prince of the Faithful never expected to see accepted.
+
+Perfectly comprehending, however, the exaggerated importance attached to
+his friendship and support by the French Government, and relying on the
+efficacy of those secret influences he had hitherto so successfully
+employed, Abdel Kader was not without hopes that by a strenuous and even
+overstrained assumption of right, and a bold avowal of design, dimly
+suggestive of reserved strength, he might at all events procure such a
+treaty as should enhance the advantages he actually possessed,
+strengthen his position, enlarge his sphere of action, and still further
+dispel the clouds which yet obscured the brilliant vista of glory lying
+before him.
+
+Up to this time he had succeeded in almost all he had undertaken. His
+faith in his mission, always strong and unshaken, now possessed his mind
+with the strength of a religious conviction. By inspiring all around him
+with a like confidence and belief, this faith became to him an
+instrument of power. His past success was accepted as a sure omen of
+future triumphs. A French officer, about this time, advised him, out of
+honest sympathy and regard, not to be presumptuously confident. “What!”
+replied Abdel Kader, “it is but three years since I was simply one of my
+father’s five sons, and obliged to mount and equip myself from the
+enemy’s spoils. You see what I am now; and you tell me not to have
+confidence in myself!”
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VI.
+
+                                 1835.
+
+
+Count D’Erlon visited Oran in the month of June, 1835. Abdel Kader wrote
+to compliment him on his arrival, and anxiously awaited overtures. The
+Governor-General was desirous of inviting him to a personal interview.
+Trezel firmly and successfully pointed out the impolicy of such a step.
+He maintained that, so far from Abdel Kader being willing to see, much
+more to aid in, the extension of French dominion in Algeria, he was, in
+fact, adroitly making the French Government the instrument for his own
+exaltation, and that to enter into closer relations with him would be
+tantamount to an approval of his late conduct.
+
+Such, indeed, was the indignation of that uncompromising soldier at the
+facility with which Abdel Kader was achieving his own ends at the
+expense, as he conceived, of French honour, and to the great scandal of
+French common sense and discrimination, that he had more than once been
+tempted to march against him on his own responsibility. D’Erlon, on the
+contrary, strongly impressed by this time with the importance and
+necessity of Abdel Kader’s support, would not hear of any steps being
+taken that might possibly lead to a rupture; and on returning to
+Algiers, ordered Trezel carefully to cultivate his friendship and
+alliance.
+
+Such, however, in a short time, became the state of affairs in the
+province of Oran, that Trezel had only before him the choice of two
+courses—either to submit to Abdel Kader’s dictation, and await his
+sovereign pleasure in all things connected with the interior, or to
+place himself in such a position as to be enabled to act independently.
+
+The Douairs and Zmelas had resumed a friendly intercourse with the
+French. Abdel Kader threatened to take them back forcibly to Tlemsen.
+Those tribes, rather than abandon their crops and be deprived of a
+profitable traffic, at once demanded French protection. Trezel granted
+their request; and, hearing that Abdel Kader’s officers were engaged in
+harassing them with forcible measures—seizing their cattle and carrying
+off some of their Sheiks—he sent a brigade to their camping ground near
+Miserghin. On the 16th June, 1835, a treaty, containing eleven articles,
+was signed by both parties, in which the Douairs and Zmelas were
+declared French subjects.
+
+Abdel Kader was still desirous to avert hostilities, and even so anxious
+to avoid any pretext which might lead to them, that he had issued strict
+orders that no Arab was, under any circumstances, to fire on a Frenchman
+except in self-defence. He therefore simply wrote to Trezel, strongly
+protesting against a step which he looked on as a glaring infraction of
+the treaty of Desmichels, by which the French engaged not to harbour
+refugees from the tribes, and to send back Arab deserters.
+
+Trezel answered him that he was quite willing to abide by that treaty;
+but argued that the word “deserter” applied only to individuals, and
+could never have been intended to extend to whole tribes who preferred
+French rule to his. Viewing the sense of the treaty in that light, he
+said, he could never deprive the Douairs and Zmelas of the rights they
+had obtained.
+
+This notification drew from Abdel Kader the following letter:—
+
+“You know the conditions which Desmichels made with me before you came
+to Oran, and to which you yourself promised to adhere. By those
+conditions, every Arab who commits a misdemeanour or crime, and flies to
+you for refuge and protection, is to be sent back to me, even when it is
+a question of more than one individual. How much stronger becomes my
+claim on this point, when it is a question of whole tribes deserting and
+going over to you!
+
+“The Douairs and Zmelas are my subjects; and according to our law, I
+have a right to do with them as I please. If you withdraw your
+protection from them, and let them obey me, as heretofore, it is well.
+If, on the contrary, you persist in breaking your engagements, recall at
+once your consul from Mascara; for even should the Douairs and Zmelas
+enter within the walls of Oran, I will not withdraw my hand from them
+until they repent and atone for their fault. Moreover, my religion
+prohibits me from allowing a Mussulman to be under the dominion of a
+Christian. See what suits you best; otherwise the God of Battles must
+decide between us.”
+
+Trezel could only reply to such a tone by the sound of cannon. Indeed,
+hostilities had, in some degree, already begun. A few days previously,
+the French cavalry, being short of forage, had cut down the crops of the
+Hashem Gharabas. Abdel Kader, on hearing of this irruption on his family
+tribe, had moved up 2,000 horse and 800 foot to their vicinity, near the
+river Sig. Trezel now determined to attack this force before it assumed
+any greater development. On the 26th of June, 1835, he led out a column
+for that purpose, consisting of 5,000 infantry, a regiment of Chasseurs
+d’Afrique, 4 mountain pieces, and 20 waggons for provisions, besides the
+ordinary ambulance.
+
+Shortly after entering the wood of Muley Ismail, the leading companies
+opened fire on what they conceived to be a straggling party of the
+Arabs. The fire was vigorously returned. Presently cavalry appeared. It
+was Abdel Kader’s advanced guard, coming from the Sig. In a few minutes
+the French were furiously attacked in front and on their flanks.
+
+The suddenness of the onset, the thickness of the wood, and the
+undulating nature of the ground, which tended to conceal the real number
+of the enemy, combined with the shouts and cries by which the Arabs
+sought to magnify their number, all contributed to shake the steadiness
+of the French column. In vain were certain changes in its formation
+attempted: the rear battalions ordered to close up, the centre
+compacted, and the cavalry thrown out. In a short time the whole body
+was thrown into confusion, the cavalry was driven in, and the infantry
+and artillery were only able to fire their discharges at random.
+
+For a while the Arab attack seemed to relent. The French now broke from
+their ranks. The provision waggons were seized and emptied; the wine
+casks were staved in. All eat and drank ravenously. At length, by the
+greatest exertions on the part of the officers, some sort of order was
+restored, and an onward movement was effected. The banks of the Sig were
+reached about sunset; and there the French column encamped in solid
+square.
+
+Fortunately for the French, the main body of Abdel Kader’s army,
+approaching by forced marches from Tlemsen, had been obliged to halt for
+a short repose some two leagues higher up the stream. The French, for
+that night, had a respite. At dawn of day, Trezel commenced a retreat;
+but Abdel Kader had not been inactive. By a rapid night march he had
+succeeded in placing himself on the enemy’s line of communication with
+Oran. Trezel was in no condition to fight his way, and took the
+direction of the seaport town of Arzew. Knowing the difficulties of a
+direct movement in that point—part of the intervening country being
+almost impassable to waggons and artillery carriages—he determined to
+turn the Hamian Mountains, and to emerge on the plain of Arzew by the
+defile of the Habra, where that river Habra changes its name to that of
+the Macta.
+
+Abdel Kader, seeing the direction the French were taking, at once
+devised their object. If he could only occupy the defile of the Habra
+before they reached it, he knew they would be at his mercy. But the
+distance was too great for infantry to accomplish in time to effect his
+object. Selecting a thousand horsemen, he ordered each rider to mount a
+foot soldier behind him, and gallop to the spot. This lucky inspiration
+was crowned with complete success. The French, after patiently toiling
+across the plain of Ceirat, harassed all the way by the Arab cavalry,
+entered the defile about mid-day.
+
+To their surprise they found the slopes on either side of them bristling
+with arms. As they proceeded, huge pieces of rock were hurled down upon
+them. While the French skirmishers were occupied during two hours in
+bravely but slowly opening a way, Abdel Kader with his whole army closed
+in upon them from behind. Their rear guard, fearing to be cut off,
+pushed on confusedly to the front.
+
+Part of the ambulance and artillery took ground to the right, and got
+swamped in a marsh. The artillerymen cut their traces and fled.
+Regiments got intermingled. Companies and sections of companies rushed
+here and there for places of shelter or escape. Luckily for them, the
+Arabs were too much occupied in plundering and stripping and slaying the
+wounded, to follow them into the nooks and corners in which they had
+sought for refuge. Many, trying to swim the river, were carried away by
+the stream and drowned. Night came on. The crushed and mutilated mass
+dropped away towards Arzew in disjointed fragments of helpless and
+bewildered fugitives.
+
+The Arabs knew no bounds to their exultation. Shouts of joy resounded,
+and the glare of torches flashed to and fro in the defile all through
+the night. An aerial spectator might have seen one part of it occupied
+with busy architects. Drawing near, he would have seen something growing
+up from the ground, like a pyramid. Bending down and listening, he would
+have heard frantic cries of “more heads, more heads!” A closer
+inspection of this work of art would have revealed to the astonished
+gaze hundreds of French heads, piled up promiscuously.
+
+Abdel Kader rode towards the place about midnight. He reined up, and
+paused for awhile in silent and painful contemplation. His soul revolted
+at the ghastly trophy. For the moment he was powerless; but as he passed
+on, he resolved in his mind that this should be the last of such
+barbarities.
+
+Such was the terrible episode of the Macta. France was electrified at
+the news of the disaster. The nation, with one accord, demanded
+investigation, punishment, and vengeance. D’Erlon was recalled; the
+brave but unfortunate Trezel was replaced by General D’Arlanges. Marshal
+Clausel was sent to inaugurate a new era in what was now called the
+African colony of France; but his new weapons were destined to break in
+his hands.
+
+In the session of 1835, M. Thiers spoke powerfully in the French
+Chambers on the subject of the system which had, up to that time, been
+pursued in Algeria. “It is not colonisation,” he said. “It is not
+occupation on a large scale; it is not occupation on a small scale. It
+is not peace; it is not war. It is war badly made.” Roused by this
+taunt, so bitterly justified by the late deplorable event on the Macta,
+the French Government at last threw some energy into its mode of action,
+augmented the army in Algeria, ordered the vigorous prosecution of the
+war with Abdel Kader, and decreed the occupation of Mascara. It was
+thought that the seizure of his capital would bring the aspiring young
+Sultan to terms.
+
+Marshal Clausel arrived at Algiers August 10th, 1835. A pompous
+proclamation which he issued boastfully announced the speedy submission
+of the whole regency. A map was at the same time published, showing the
+colony divided into beylicks, with the names of the native beys
+appointed to govern them. Abdel Kader was held to be a thing of the
+past, or, if existing, to be easily disposed of.
+
+This highly satisfactory arrangement, however, never extended beyond the
+domain of imagination. The marshal’s military deeds were destined to
+contrast awkwardly with his military dreams. Expeditions to Medea, to
+Miliana, to Cherchell, all returned with sad tales of humiliation and
+reverse. “In two months,” he had ostentatiously declared, “the Hadjouts
+shall cease to be.” The marshal theorised; Abdel Kader performed.
+
+His Khalifa at Miliana descended, by his orders, into the Metija with
+5,000 cavalry and infantry, rallied these very Hadjouts, swept the
+plains of Algiers of all the French colonists, and blockaded Algiers
+itself. On the other hand, D’Arlanges and the garrison of Oran were
+reduced to the greatest straits. They were little more than prisoners of
+war. Abdel Kader had almost realised his threat that not a bird should
+fly over the towns occupied by the infidels without his leave.
+
+The French everywhere writhed in their fetters. The army breathed fury
+and indignation, and almost mutinied. From the general to the drummer,
+all loudly demanded to be led out against the daring and successful Arab
+who was thus setting them at defiance and enveloping them in the toils
+of his fearless and enterprising genius. On the 21st of November, 1835,
+Clausel went to Oran, and prepared to take the field with 12,000 men.
+
+Abdel Kader was already on the alert. His available force, to meet the
+coming shock, was 8,000 cavalry, 2,000 infantry, and four pieces of
+cannon. With these he proposed to check, harass, and perhaps scatter,
+the French army on its line of march. To defend Mascara never entered
+into his plan; his was not a siege power.
+
+Clausel quitted Oran November 27th. The wood of Muley Ismael was passed,
+and the fording of the Sig effected without opposition. As the column
+drew near to the Habra, the Arabs were seen moving in a parallel
+direction along the adjacent heights. Abdel Kader was watching the
+moment when a break in the French lines would offer him a favourable
+point of attack. Clausel, penetrating this intention, halted, closed up,
+and, making face to his right, advanced against the Arabs, in _échelons_
+of battalions from his left.
+
+Abdel Kader refused battle. Leaving his adversary to enjoy the barren
+fruits of his change of front, he pushed on rapidly, and placed himself
+across the main road leading to Mascara. His left was posted on an
+eminence, where he placed his artillery; his right was protected by a
+wood. His selection of ground would have done honour to a European
+general.
+
+An able commander may seize a strategical point in such a manner as to
+decide the fate of a campaign. He may overbear, and even turn to a good
+account, obstacles apparently insuperable, by tactical skill; he may
+make time and space subservient to his designs; but he cannot give
+irregulars the firmness requisite to hold the part assigned to them in a
+regular order of battle. It was the fate of Abdel Kader to discover now,
+that, in attempting to realise the theories of European military science
+in the open field, and on a given ground, with the levies under his
+command, the elements he wielded were below the requirements of his
+genius.
+
+Four chapels, dedicated to Sidi Embarek, were occupied by his advanced
+posts. These the French quickly drove in. The Arab cavalry charged in
+various places; but they were broken and dispersed by shells and
+rockets. Abdel Kader directed in person the fire of his artillery. Some
+well-directed shots had thrown a French brigade into confusion.
+Immediately he led on his infantry against it. Animated by his presence,
+his Arabs and Kabyles went in valiantly. But they measured themselves in
+vain against the courage and obstinacy of French infantry. The struggle
+on their part was desperate but fruitless, and they retreated in
+confusion.
+
+The French had in the meantime, and after some hours’ hard fighting,
+possessed themselves of the wood on the right of the Arab position,
+whilst their artillery had pushed well up the main road. The Arabs
+abandoned the field at all points. Abdel Kader vainly endeavoured to
+preserve some order in the retreat. That night, his regular infantry
+disbanded. Of the cavalry of the tribes, some went to their homes;
+others hurried off to Mascara, and began to plunder the place. He
+himself withdrew to Cachero, his family property, about two leagues
+beyond that town.
+
+The army of Abdel Kader had melted away like a wreath of snow. It was
+evident that the French would soon be in Mascara. Tlemsen might even
+fall into their hands in a brief space of time. Whole tribes, as a
+probable consequence, would seek safety by submission. Some of his
+chiefs, on whom Abdel Kader most relied, had already deserted him. His
+case seemed to be hopeless. But he calmly awaited the time when the
+panic should subside; he felt assured that it would be only transient.
+He was mortified and indignant at the stain which had been put upon his
+fame and reputation by the weakness and pusillanimity of some, and the
+treason of others. Yet he never uttered an invective or a reproach.
+
+The few followers who remained with Abdel Kader anxiously endeavoured to
+read his thoughts. The alarmists he re-assured; the faint-hearted he
+encouraged; to his mother, who, with womanly tenderness and compassion,
+now approached him to pour words of comfort and consolation in his ear,
+he calmly replied, taking her hand in his, “Women, mother, have need of
+pity, not men.”
+
+Clausel entered Mascara December 6, 1835. A miserable crowd of Jews was
+all that remained of its population. They came out of their dens to
+crouch at the feet of the victorious French. All masters were alike to
+these exiles from the Land of Promise. The Mohammedans had disdained to
+allow them to accompany them in their flight. On the 7th, flames burst
+forth in various parts of the town, but were soon extinguished. The
+French were just beginning to repose from their fatigues, and were
+contemplating a permanent occupation, when, to their surprise and
+disgust, they got orders to prepare for leaving. On the 8th December,
+Mascara was evacuated.
+
+The next day, a horseman appeared before its gates. It was Abdel Kader.
+Rumours of his presence spread rapidly. Some Arabs made their appearance
+before him; they looked abashed and mistrustful. El Aoura, Aga of the
+Hashems, was amongst the number. In the flight, he had carried off the
+royal parasol. He now produced it. “Keep it for yourself,” said Abdel
+Kader, with a sarcastic smile; “you may, one of these days, be Sultan.”
+
+As the day wore on, some of the fugitive chiefs came dropping in. Abdel
+Kader eyed them contemptuously. At last, one ventured to ask him, if he
+had any orders to give them. “My orders!” he exclaimed. “Yes, my orders
+are, that you instantly relieve me from the burden you imposed upon me,
+and which the interests of religion alone have enabled me to support, up
+to this hour. Let the tribes make choice of my successor, and inform Il
+Hadj Djellali of the result. I am going with my family to Morocco.”
+
+By a common impulse, chiefs and men prostrated themselves before him,
+kissed his hands, his feet, his burnous, imploring pardon and
+forgiveness for the past, and promising fidelity and constancy for the
+future. “He was their father, their Sultan, the chosen of God to lead on
+the Djehad; their lives were his; if he left them, they had nought to do
+but surrender to the infidels.” At these last words, Abdel Kader turned
+round abruptly. The blood mantled to his cheeks. They had struck the
+only chord to which his heart responded—the sense of duty. “God’s will
+be done,” he exclaimed; “but remember, I swear never to enter Mascara
+except to go to the Mosque, until you have avenged your ignominious
+defeat. I see traitors amongst you; Mamoor yonder is one; let him be
+hung.” The unfortunate culprit was seized and executed forthwith.
+
+The master spirit had prevailed; confidence was restored. That night,
+from the royal tent, dispatches went forth to all the tribes, summoning
+them to renewed action. On the morrow, Abdel Kader, buoyant and cheerful
+as ever, towering above misfortune, mighty in disaster, dauntless where
+all desponded, arresting victory in her flight from the very depths of
+humiliation and defeat, sallied forth, sword in hand, at the head of
+6,000 cavalry, to attack and harass the French column, as, wrapped in
+tempest, drenched with rain, and benumbed with cold, it pursued its
+incomprehensible retreat on Mostaganem.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VII.
+
+                                 1836.
+
+
+Notwithstanding Clausel’s temporary occupation of Mascara, Abdel Kader
+had already regained his ascendancy. Everywhere he was in possession of
+the field. Several tribes who had shown an inclination to accept the
+rule of the French were punished, either by money levied, or cattle
+distrained. Moreover Clausel sued for peace.
+
+To the proposition that he should acknowledge the sovereignty of France,
+Abdel Kader replied, that before acknowledging a suzerain he should like
+to know precisely the extent of power and territory which he was to
+hold, as well as the obligations he should be called on to fulfil.
+Miloud ibn Arasch was invited to come to Oran to discuss the
+negotiation. Clausel was, at this time, meditating an expedition against
+Tlemsen.
+
+The presence of the French in the interim had encouraged their
+partisans. Mustapha ibn Ismail had promised Clausel the co-operation of
+more than one Arab tribe, if he advanced upon Tlemsen. The Beni Engad
+declared themselves his friends, and they were already drawing near the
+town in large force with the view of assisting him, and aiding the
+escape of the Kolouglis from the citadel, in which the latter were still
+blockaded.
+
+Abdel Kader hearing of this combination, made a rapid descent on both
+parties. He caught Mustapha and the Kolouglis in the very act of making
+a sortie, and drove them back. Turning round on the Beni Engad, he
+completely routed them. The action was scarcely over, when Clausel and
+his column, 8,000 strong, were seen marching on the town. Abdel Kader
+had barely time to complete its evacuation. He withdrew with the whole
+population, unmolested, to Ouchda, on the frontiers of Morocco. Clausel
+entered Tlemsen January 13th, 1836.
+
+Mustapha and the Kolouglis, followed by a miserable crowd of Jews,
+presented themselves before the Governor-General and his staff,
+overwhelming him with exuberant professions of loyalty and submission,
+and calling him their saviour and benefactor. He demanded from them
+100,000 francs as a proof of their sincerity. In vain the astonished
+dupes pleaded their utter inability to raise such a sum, Clausel was
+inexorable. The screw was mercilessly applied. Threats and blows, and
+even torture, were used, and the contribution was finally paid, partly
+in coin, partly in diamonds and articles of jewellery.
+
+This mode of treatment pursued by the French was as great an advantage
+to the cause of Abdel Kader as any victory would have been.
+
+“If that is the way,” he exclaimed, “the French treat their friends,
+what are their enemies to expect?”
+
+It was diligently spread abroad that a Jew had presided at the tying up
+and castigation of the Kolouglis. The Arabs were furious. Such an
+indignity put upon Mussulmans had never been heard of. The Beni Engad
+opened a correspondence with Abdel Kader. The Kolouglis sent him word
+privately that they only awaited the departure of the French to give him
+up the citadel.
+
+It was the intention of Clausel, however, to occupy the town, as he was
+extremely anxious to establish a direct communication between Tlemsen
+and the sea-coast. The mouth of the Tafna was the nearest available
+point for this purpose, but the intervening ground was mountainous. He
+set out to accomplish his object, January 23rd. He soon found himself in
+presence of Abdel Kader, with his whole army.
+
+For ten successive days the battle raged between them. The Arabs,
+burning to avenge their late defeat, were obstinately tenacious. Abdel
+Kader, moreover, had not attempted a regular formation. Hills, ravines,
+rocks, and rivers were seized and defended, according to the exigencies
+of the moment. Against such tactics, and in an unknown country, French
+courage and discipline were at fault. Clausel was defeated and driven
+back to Tlemsen with considerable loss. After placing a garrison in the
+citadel under the command of Captain Cavaignac, he returned with his
+column to Oran, harassed by Abdel Kader to its very gates.
+
+On his arrival at Algiers, he consoled himself for all his futile
+expeditions by issuing a proclamation declaring the war to be finished.
+“Abdel Kader,” it stated, “utterly beaten and discomfited, has fled to
+the Sahara, there to conceal his treason and revolt.” In April, the
+Marshal embarked for France, leaving instructions to General d’Arlanges
+at Oran, to make a fortified camp on the Tafna, with the view of opening
+from thence the desired line of communication with Tlemsen.
+
+General Perregaux about this time made an incursion on the tribes
+located in the valley of the Cheliff. Influenced by their chiefs, the
+sons of Sidi il Aribi, these tribes had continued, despite their
+repeated corrections, to waver in their obedience to the Sultan. They
+had not paid the tribute without considerable reluctance and complaints,
+and they had furnished their contingent of cavalry to his army with
+manifest repugnance. They now, under pretence of superior pressure,
+again entered into an alliance with the French.
+
+Abdel Kader was too much occupied, for the moment, with the blockade of
+Tlemsen and the proceedings of D’Arlanges on the Tafna, to interrupt the
+military promenade of Perregaux. But the recreant Arabs, who had
+welcomed the French general, were soon made to feel the weight of the
+Sultan’s indignation. No sooner had the French withdrawn than he came
+down on them like an avalanche. Eighteen tribes were heavily fined, and
+their cattle distrained. The Borgia tribe, singled out to serve as a
+terrible example, was decimated, and then driven out of the district to
+find shelter where it could.
+
+D’Arlanges had reached the Tafna, with great difficulty, on the 16th of
+April, with 3,000 infantry and eight pieces of artillery. Having
+completed an entrenched camp on the banks of the river, he marched out
+on the 21st, in conformity with his instructions, to open the road to
+Tlemsen. Abdel Kader, who from the central position of Nedroma, which
+commanded equally the road from the Tafna to Tlemsen and to Oran, was
+able to watch his enemy’s movements in either direction, rapidly
+descended to the encounter, enveloped the French column with masses of
+Kabyles and Arabs, and obliged it to retrace its steps.
+
+He owed this success to his own unwearied exertions and commanding
+influence. So long as he could keep each separate French garrison in a
+state of isolation, the game was his own. But to effect so comprehensive
+a plan, he was obliged to keep the whole country constantly on the
+alert. With this view he had for weeks past been traversing the
+mountains of the Kabyles which spread around the Tafna. Through toilsome
+days and sleepless nights he had been summoning, preaching, and
+haranguing. His fiery eloquence had raised the enthusiasm of those
+fierce and ungovernable mountaineers to a pitch of frenzy. When the time
+for action came, and Abdel Kader once more led them in person against
+the foe, they rushed to the combat more like wild beasts than men, came
+at once to close quarters with the French infantry, grappled with them
+in single combat, swept through their ranks, and rushed up to the
+cannon’s mouth.
+
+The French government, irritated by such prolonged and unexpected
+resistance, continued to pour in reinforcements. On the 6th of June,
+1836, General Bugeaud landed at the mouth of the Tafna with three fresh
+regiments. The attempt to force a passage to Tlemsen was immediately
+renewed, and, at last, the point was carried with success. Abdel Kader
+fought a long and desperate battle with the invading force on the banks
+of the Sikkak, but on this occasion he was completely defeated.
+
+This reverse had its usual effect on the tribes. Many of the cavalry
+contingents rode off and returned to their homes. The sudden abandonment
+to which Abdel Kader was sometimes exposed, after a defeat, would have
+prostrated the energies of a weaker mind, and paralysed a less iron-
+moulded will. But such oscillations had long ceased to affect him. He
+well knew that whenever Fortune smiled, a wave of his sword would at any
+hour bring both waverers and rebels crouching to his feet.
+
+But when he was informed that a certain Sidi Ibrahim had so far
+calculated on his present emergency as to excite a revolt against him,
+and even to assume the title of sultan, he drew his sword from its
+scabbard, hung it to his saddle bow, and vowed never to sheathe it or
+descend from his horse till he had the traitor’s head. Appearing almost
+singly in the midst of the tribe Beni Amers, among whom he knew the
+traitor to be, he demanded his instant delivery. The tribe, startled and
+subdued by this act of bold decision, and dreading the charge of
+complicity, gave up the rebel Sidi Ibrahim. His head was at once taken
+off.
+
+Abdel Kader, by the ceaseless activity of his movements in all
+directions, and by the untiring vigilance with which he superintended
+his system of blockade, had again reduced the French to the greatest
+extremities. They had established posts in the interior, but they could
+neither reach them nor communicate with them. Their letters were
+intercepted. The bearers of them, when seized, were invariably
+decapitated. No friendly tribes brought the French provisions.
+
+Whether at Oran, or at the Tafna, they could only move out in large
+bodies, and on such occasions large supplies, beasts of burden, and
+means of transport were required. The Douairs and Zmelas, seeking
+shelter under the walls of Oran, lived upon the rations scantily doled
+out to them by their protectors. At Tlemsen, Cavaignac was buying cats
+for his table at 40 francs a head.
+
+In the month of November, 1836, Clausel, who had returned to his post,
+undertook the siege of Constantine, the stronghold of Achmet Bey, the
+last representative of the Turkish power in Algeria. Abdel Kader
+abstained from taking any steps which might thwart the complete
+development of that design. Whether the French were successful in their
+design or not, he flattered himself that he should be the gainer in the
+end. He felt that if the Bey were vanquished, he should be delivered,
+without cost or trouble to himself, from a dangerous rival, and that the
+Arab tribes of the province of Constantine would then be free to join
+his standard. If he were triumphant, the French, wearied out by the
+difficulties of their general position in the country, might abandon it;
+in which case, a struggle between himself and the Bey for the mastery
+would neither be doubtful as to its issue, nor of long duration.
+
+But when the expedition failed, he felt his hour was come. From his
+head-quarters at Medea, he issued orders for a simultaneous advance
+against all the French possessions between the Atlas and the sea-coast.
+In the province of Oran little remained to be effected. But the plain of
+the Metija was at his mercy. Thousands of Arabs and Kabyles, supported
+by the tribes of Tittery, descended like a torrent from the mountains,
+sacking and burning the French colonial establishments, slaying and
+capturing the colonists, and carrying terror and dismay into Algiers
+itself.
+
+The state to which the French garrisons were now reduced was pitiable.
+The utmost ingenuity of their commissariat was daily and hourly taxed to
+avert the horrors of famine. Fortunately for the French, they were
+relieved from their painful predicament by the speculative genius of a
+Jew.
+
+Durand, the Sultan’s wily and influential agent at Algiers, had long
+been feasting his imagination with the splendid harvest he should
+gather, could he only be constituted sole conductor of commercial
+transactions between the contending parties. To this end he had for
+months been labouring to convince Abdel Kader that the advantages, even
+in a military point of view, to be gained by feeding the French would
+far outweigh the value of any glory which might be gained by starving
+them.
+
+Authorised to drive the best bargain he could, Durand hurried off to
+Oran, and opened a negotiation with General Broussard, who, at that
+period, was in command of the garrison.
+
+“The French,” he said, “have need of corn and meat. The Sultan wants
+iron, lead, and sulphur. Let each party sell the other what it wants,
+and all will be satisfied. You need not fear that you will be in any
+degree compromised with the Sultan by such an arrangement. He will not
+appear in the matter at all. I will sell you corn and cattle; and you
+will sell me iron and sulphur. The Sultan will merely know, indirectly,
+that the former articles are for you, and the latter for him. The Sultan
+will even go so far as to allow you to re-victual Tlemsen; but as such a
+concession would undoubtedly exasperate and disgust the Arabs, to whom
+the presence of the French in that town is hateful, he can only take on
+himself the odium and responsibility of granting it, on the condition
+that all the prisoners taken at the battle of the Sikkak are set free
+and sent back to him.”
+
+Broussard at once accepted the proposal. The French again enjoyed the
+long unaccustomed luxury of abundance. Abdel Kader, on his side quietly
+obtained from his enemies, reduced to assume the garb of friends, the
+materials of war, which were hereafter to be wielded against them.
+
+Not only did this singular contract, as it turned out, give him the
+means of increasing his aggressive power, but, at the same time, it also
+raised his _prestige_. To the sneers of fanatics, who reproached him
+with his defeats, and the complaints of whole families, constantly
+demanding their lost ones, languishing in the prisons of the infidel, he
+could now reply by triumphantly pointing to prisoners arrested from the
+victor’s hands, restored to their homes, and able again to take part in
+the holy war. Such was the state of affairs when General Bugeaud arrived
+from France at Oran, with instructions either to make peace with Abdel
+Kader, or to conquer him.
+
+Wishing to try, in the first place, to effect a negotiation, he sent him
+the following propositions as a basis of accommodation:—
+
+1. Acknowledgment of the sovereignty of France.
+
+2. Limitation of his territory to the river Cheliff.
+
+3. Payment of tribute.
+
+4. Delivery of hostages, as guarantee for, and the due execution of, any
+future treaty which might be agreed on.
+
+Abdel Kader replied, through his agent Durand, that having never
+experienced any fatal check, and having amply compensated himself for
+any disasters which had temporarily befallen him, he could never consent
+to be placed in a position inferior to that which he enjoyed by the
+treaty of Desmichels; that Arabs would never hear of living under even
+the nominal dominion of Christians; and that if France endeavoured to
+place them under it by force she would be embarking in an endless war.
+He declared, moreover, that he had not entered the province of Tittery
+from any design of his own, but had been summoned thither by the voice
+of its inhabitants, and that neither his honour nor his religion would
+allow him to abandon those who had thrown themselves on his protection.
+He added, that in his opinion the real interest of France was not to
+seek an extension of sway over populations irreconcilably hostile to
+her, but rather to confine herself to commercial enterprise in the towns
+on the sea-coast.
+
+By the voice of his agent, Abdel Kader admitted, however, that he would
+consent to allow the French to occupy the Metija, or Plain of Algiers,
+with the exception of Blidah, which belonged properly to the mountains,
+and that he was willing to yield them all the territory near Oran,
+comprised between the Bridia and the Macta. He was ready, moreover, as
+he declared, to renounce the monopoly granted him by Desmichels, to
+allow complete freedom of commerce, and to guarantee the security, and
+repair the losses, if any occurred, of all Frenchmen who chose to settle
+in the interior. He would pledge himself, finally, never to give up any
+sea-port which was ceded to him to a foreign power.
+
+Bold and dictatorial as such language appeared to the General, he
+preferred, under all circumstances, to continue in the path of
+concession, rather than to make any resistance which might have
+precipitated hostilities. His Government had expressly warned him
+against granting Abdel Kader any further extension of territory. The
+latter had firmly stated that he would not give up an inch of what he
+held. The General yielded, and on his own responsibility, offered to
+give up to Abdel Kader the province of Tittery, with the stipulation,
+however, that he should consent to be the vassal of France.
+
+The following ultimatum, embodying the terms of this important
+compromise, was now drawn up, and forwarded to Abdel Kader. The
+circumscribed limits, within which the military representative of the
+French Government therein offered to confine his countrymen in Algeria,
+constituted a point which was in itself a glorious testimony to the
+successful prowess of the great leader who had hitherto rendered barren
+all the expeditions which the French had directed against him, and
+thwarted all their schemes of conquest.
+
+1. The Emir will recognise the sovereignty of France.
+
+2. France reserves, in the province of Oran, a belt, from ten to twelve
+leagues in breadth, beginning at the Rio Salado, and terminating at the
+Cheliff. In the province of Algiers, he reserves Algiers, and all the
+province of that name. She cedes to the Emir the province of Tittery and
+that of Oran, excepting the belt afore-mentioned.
+
+3. The Emir will pay an annual tribute in corn and cattle.
+
+4. There shall be perfect freedom of commerce.
+
+5. All the goods which the French have acquired, or may acquire, in the
+country will be guaranteed.
+
+This ultimatum reached Abdel Kader at Medea, where he had already opened
+negotiations with General Damremont, the new Governor-General of
+Algeria, not without sanguine hopes of a satisfactory result. He now
+found himself engaged with two negotiators, both willing to treat with
+him on terms highly favourable to his views and expectations. Their zeal
+to conclude with him, indeed, amounted to rivalry.
+
+Bugeaud had requested, as a particular favour from his Government, that
+to him alone should be reserved the glory of dealing with Abdel Kader.
+When, therefore, he learned that Damremont had entered into diplomatic
+relations with the Arab Sultan, his jealousy was aroused. He taxed his
+superior with exercising an unauthorised and unwarrantable intervention
+in a complication, the adjustment of which depended entirely on himself.
+A recriminating correspondence took place. Reference was made to the
+Minister of War, who decided that Bugeaud was to be left full liberty of
+action, without interference or supervision.
+
+As soon as Abdel Kader heard of this decision, he returned to the
+province of Oran, and on the 12th of May sent the following propositions
+in reply to Bugeaud’s ultimatum:—
+
+1. The Emir acknowledges the sovereignty of France.
+
+2. All the Mussulmans who live outside the towns shall be under his
+jurisdiction.
+
+3. The territory of the French to the west of Oran shall be confined to
+the country between Bridia and the sea, and extend as far as the Macta.
+On the side of Algiers, they will be allowed to hold the country between
+that town and the river Beni-Azza.
+
+4. The Emir will give, for this year only, 20,000 measures of corn,
+20,000 measures of barley, and 3,000 head of cattle.
+
+5. The Emir shall be empowered to buy, in France, powder, sulphur, and
+arms.
+
+6. The Kolouglis who choose to remain in Tlemsen, shall keep their
+properties, be under our power, and conform themselves to our land.
+
+7. Those who leave the French territory, or the territory of the Emir,
+shall be reciprocally given up on the requisition of the one or the
+other party.
+
+8. France cedes to the Emir, Rachgoun, Tlemsen, its citadel, and the
+mortars and cannons which anciently belonged to it. The Emir undertakes
+to transport the effects of the French garrison to Oran.
+
+9. Commerce shall be free between the Arabs and the French.
+
+10. The French shall be respected amongst the Arabs, as the Arabs
+amongst the French.
+
+11. The farms and properties which the French may have acquired in the
+Metija shall be guaranteed. They shall enjoy them freely.
+
+In the preceding stipulations, Abdel Kader made no allusion to the
+cession of Tittery and Oran. He looked on it as a matter of course,
+inasmuch as in the former province the French had not even the shadow of
+power; whilst in the latter they only traversed as birds of passage,
+flitting from town to town. But, bent on the consolidation of his power,
+and the strengthening of his lines of communication, he boldly insisted
+on the evacuation, by the French, of Tlemsen, and on their yielding up
+the port of Rachgoun.
+
+But he went even still further. Feeling well his vantage-ground, and
+seeing the straits to which the French were reduced, he did not hesitate
+to require that all Mussulman residing on French territory should be
+under his exclusive jurisdiction. In this demand he endeavoured to carry
+out and enforce a principle which, in his eyes, was paramount to every
+earthly consideration, as based on the very essence of the Koran—the
+principle, that under no circumstances, if possible, should any
+Mussulman voluntarily acknowledge or submit to Christian rule.
+
+At this period, Abdel Kader approached the zenith of his career.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER VIII.
+
+                                 1837.
+
+
+Nothing more loudly testifies to the immense superiority enjoyed by
+Abdel Kader, at this period, than the fact of his being in a position to
+advance such pretensions, and make such demands. Their real and evident
+meaning was, that he should be acknowledged Sultan of Algeria, whilst
+the French lived, as it were, under sufferance, on the outskirts of his
+empire, simply enjoying the advantage of trading with his subjects.
+
+It must be borne in mind, at the same time, that Abdel Kader was
+perfectly aware of the state of public opinion in France. He subscribed
+regularly to the French journals. The debates in the Chambers, and the
+leading articles on Algerian affairs, were interpreted to him. He saw
+the liberal party cordially approving and supporting the principle laid
+down by their chief orator, M. Dupin, who denounced Algiers as a fatal
+legacy, bequeathed by the Restoration, which ought to be abandoned,
+“if,” as he exclaimed, “we would not see our last man, and our last
+sons, swallowed up.”
+
+He gathered, from the general tenor of the passages which were read to
+him, that many of the principal politicians in France looked upon
+colonisation in Africa as a dream; that they considered all warlike
+operations there carried on as so much blood and treasure thrown away;
+and that they maintained the true policy of France to be, merely to hold
+a few places along the coast for the purpose of preventing piracy, and
+cultivating peaceable and honourable relations with the natives.
+
+When, in addition to this, Abdel Kader saw the French Chambers making a
+practical comment on such sentiments, by refusing to vote more than
+30,000 men for the colony, and learned, that after the disastrous
+retreat from Constantine, the opinion in favour of an immediate
+evacuation of the country began to prevail more than ever, it is not to
+be wondered at if he thought that, by a little pertinacity, and a little
+more perseverance, he should succeed in obtaining such terms as would
+enable him to realise his cherished idea of founding an independent Arab
+kingdom.
+
+The propositions sent in by Abdel Kader seemed, to Bugeaud, so utterly
+incompatible with French interests, that he determined to carry out the
+second part of his programme,—an appeal to arms. In the beginning of
+May, 1837, he assembled his whole force, consisting of 12,000 men, in
+the camp of the Tafna, preparatory to offensive operations. When he came
+to review his resources, he found the transport service so utterly
+inadequate to the occasion, that he was obliged to suspend his march.
+
+To procure animals from the interior was impossible. A supply from
+France was not expected. The summer heats, so fatal to soldiers in the
+field, were fast approaching. The time fixed for the second siege of
+Constantine was at hand, and he had engaged that a large portion of his
+little army should be sent round to take part in it. The home government
+had made its arrangements in full reliance on the fulfilment of this
+pledge. Peace with Abdel Kader, however humiliating, became a necessity.
+The latter was informed that the door was still open for negotiation. He
+asked leave for a few days’ consideration.
+
+Various reasons conspired to make Abdel Kader anxious to base his
+action, in a measure of such importance as that of again making peace
+with the French, on an appeal to the wishes of the tribes at large. The
+fanatical party accused him of personal ambition, and of sacrificing the
+uncompromising principles of the Faith to his own selfish views of
+aggrandisement. The restless, the lawless—all, in fact, who preferred
+unbridled liberty to the solid advantages springing from a well-
+established central power, and who felt that the return of peace would
+hand them over unreservedly, and without the power of resistance, to the
+master-hand which would soon reduce them to implicit obedience—only
+wanted a pretext to assume the cloak of religion, and join the fanatics
+in their senseless cry.
+
+With well-timed skill and foresight, Abdel Kader now resolved to cut the
+ground from under the feet of both these parties. The demand for peace,
+or, rather, the willingness to accept it, ought, he opined, to be looked
+on as a national act. A general assembly was summoned to meet on the
+banks of the Habra, May 25, 1837; and thither, according to invitation,
+came all the great Sheiks, the leaders of cavalry contingents, the
+venerable Marabouts, and the most distinguished warriors of the province
+of Oran.
+
+The Sultan opened the deliberations in the following words:—“Let no one
+amongst you ever accuse me of wanting to make peace with the Christians.
+It is for you to decide the question of peace or war.” He then proceeded
+to explain the nature of the correspondence, which had taken place
+between himself and Bugeaud; the propositions and overtures which had
+been made to him, and those he had made in return. In conclusion, he
+commented carefully on each of the articles of his own ultimatum, sent
+in to the French general on the 12th May.
+
+A long and stormy discussion ensued. The fanatics, and those secretly
+indisposed towards the Sultan, were violent in their cries for war. The
+Marabouts silenced them by the nicely-drawn discrimination between peace
+accepted and peace demanded. The Koran, they said, nowhere inculcated a
+useless shedding of blood, when the infidel had submitted, and craved
+that the sword might be sheathed. The French had submitted. They begged
+for peace. The Sultan had dictated his own terms.
+
+This reasoning prevailed. It was decided by a large majority that the
+benefits which would accrue to the commonalty from a state of peace,
+justified the giving up of Blidah, and the plain of Algiers, to the
+French. A slight extension of the limits to which the Sultan originally
+intended to confine them would be no inconvenience to the Arabs,
+inasmuch as every Mussulman would be free to emigrate from the French
+possessions to the Sultan’s territory. The demand, however, of the
+French Government for tribute, was declared to be inadmissible.
+
+Sidi Sekkal was shortly afterwards sent to the French head-quarters on
+the Tafna, with the following concessions:—
+
+“1. Blidah abandoned.
+
+“2. Renunciation of all authority over Mussulmans residing on French
+territory.
+
+“3. A certain extension of the French boundaries.”
+
+Sidi Sekkal was commissioned, at the same time, to enter into the nature
+of the limits proposed, and to give other necessary explanations.
+Bugeaud, convinced that further delay would not procure him better
+conditions, agreed to everything. Thereupon the following treaty,
+celebrated as the “Treaty of the Tafna,” was drawn up and signed by both
+parties, May 20th, 1837.
+
+
+“THE FOLLOWING TREATY HAS BEEN AGREED UPON, BETWEEN LIEUTENANT-GENERAL
+BUGEAUD, COMMANDING THE FRENCH TROOPS IN THE PROVINCE OF ORAN, AND THE
+EMIR ABDEL KADER.
+
+“Art. 1. The Emir Abdel Kader acknowledges the sovereignty of France.
+
+“Art. 2. France reserves to herself, in the province of Oran,
+Mostaganem, Mazagnan, and their territories, Oran, Arzew, and a
+territory limited in the following manner:—On the east, by the river
+Macta, and the marsh from whence it flows; on the south, by a line
+starting from the said marsh, passing by the shore on the south of the
+lake, and continuing its prolongation up the Wady Maleh, in the
+direction of Sidi Said; and from this river down to the sea, shall
+belong to the French. In the province of Algiers, Algiers, the Sahel,
+the plain of the Metija, bounded on the east by the Wady Khuddra,
+onwards; on the south, by the crest of the first chain of the lesser
+Atlas, as far as the Chiffa, including Blidah and its territory; on the
+west, by the Chiffa as far as the Mount of Mazagnan, and from thence, in
+a direct line to the sea, enclosing Coleah and its territory, shall be
+French territory.
+
+“Art. 3. The Emir shall have the administration of the province of Oran,
+that of Tittery, and that part of the province of Algiers which is not
+comprised on the east, within the limits indicated by Article 2. He
+cannot enter any other part of the Regency.
+
+“Art. 4. The Emir shall have no authority over Mussulmans who wish to
+reside on the territory reserved to France; but these shall be at
+liberty to go and reside on the territory under the Emir’s
+administration; in the same manner the inhabitants living under the
+Emir’s administration may establish themselves on French territory.
+
+“Art. 5. The Arabs dwelling on French territory shall enjoy the free
+exercise of their religion. They may build mosques, and follow their
+religious discipline in every particular, under the authority of their
+spiritual chiefs.
+
+“Art. 6. The Emir will give to the French army 30,000 measures of corn;
+30,000 measures of barley; 5,000 head of oxen. The delivery of these
+provisions will be made at Oran, in three instalments; the first, on the
+15th September, 1837, and the two others every successive two months.
+
+“Art. 7. The Emir shall be empowered to buy in France, powder, sulphur,
+and the arms he requires.
+
+“Art. 8. The Kolouglis who wish to remain in Tlemsen, or elsewhere,
+shall have free possession of their properties there, and shall be
+treated as citizens. Those who wish to withdraw to French territory, may
+sell or rent their properties freely.
+
+“Art. 9. France cedes to the Emir, Rachgoun, Tlemsen, its citadel, and
+all the cannons which were anciently in it. The Emir engages to convey
+to Oran all the effects, as well as munitions of war, belonging to the
+garrison of Tlemsen.
+
+“Art. 10. Commerce shall be free between the Arabs and the French. They
+may establish themselves reciprocally, on each other’s territory.
+
+“Art. 11. The French shall be respected amongst the Arabs, as the Arabs
+amongst the French. The farms and properties which the French have
+acquired, or may acquire, on the Arab territory, shall be guaranteed
+them: they shall enjoy them freely, and the Emir engages to indemnify
+them for any damages the Arabs may cause them.
+
+“Art. 12. The criminals on both territories shall be reciprocally given
+up.
+
+“Art. 13. The Emir engages not to give up any part of the coast to any
+foreign power whatever, without the authorisation of France.
+
+“Art. 14. The commerce of the Regency shall only be carried on in French
+ports.
+
+“Art. 15. France shall maintain agents near the Emir, and in the towns
+under his jurisdiction, to act as intermediaries for French subjects, in
+any commercial disputes they may have with the Arabs.
+
+“The Emir will have the same privilege in French towns and seaports.
+
+                         “Tafna, May 30, 1837.
+
+“The Lieutenant-General commanding at Oran.”
+
+(The Emir’s seal under the Arab text.)
+
+(Bugeaud the General’s seal under the French text.)
+
+
+Bugeaud had been strictly enjoined by his Government to confine Abdel
+Kader to the province of Oran; on no account to cede him the province of
+Tittery, and to insist on his paying tribute.
+
+In a letter to the Minister of War, he thus excused himself for having
+signed a treaty which violated such orders:—
+
+“You may well suppose that it pained me greatly to be obliged to make up
+my mind not to follow your instructions, as regards the limits to be
+assigned to the Emir. But that was impossible. Be assured that the peace
+I have concluded is better, and is likely to be more durable than any I
+could have made by confining Abdel Kader between the Cheliff and
+Morocco.”
+
+By this treaty, nevertheless, the French were substantially confined to
+a few towns on the sea-coast, with very circumscribed adjacent
+territories; whilst all the fortresses and strongholds in the interior
+were left in the hands of their triumphant and victorious adversary. In
+a word, Abdel Kader thereby possessed two-thirds of Algeria; and in
+addition to the immense accession which this splendid triumph had added
+to his influence and power, he now earned along with him the advantage
+of appearing before the world as the friend and ally of France.
+
+The French generals, who had hitherto followed each other in rapid
+succession through the various phases of the war, had sought in vain for
+an interview with the illustrious Arab chief, who, whilst he sorely
+taxed their military talents, had excited in their breasts feelings of
+soldierly admiration. This favour was now vouchsafed to General Bugeaud.
+
+On the 31st of May, 1837, the General, followed by six battalions, with
+all his artillery and cavalry, reached the appointed place of
+rendezvous. Abdel Kader had not yet arrived. Five hours were passed in
+expectation; still nobody appeared. At last, about two o’clock, several
+Arabs came up, one after another, bearing various kinds of excuses. The
+Sultan had been indisposed. He had set out late. He was thinking of
+asking to have the interview postponed till next day. He was not far
+off. He was close at hand.
+
+A horseman now came up and begged the General to move on a little; he
+would soon meet the Sultan. It was getting late, and the General, who
+wished to get his troops back to their camp before dark, advanced. After
+marching for more than an hour, he at length came upon the Arab army,
+consisting of more than 15,000 cavalry, drawn up in tolerable order, on
+an undulating plain. At this moment, Bou Hamedi rode up to him, and
+pointed to the spot where the Sultan was surrounded by a large escort,
+on a hillock not far off.
+
+In a few minutes more, Abdel Kader and his escort were seen advancing
+towards the General. It was an imposing sight. Nearly two hundred Arab
+chiefs, on prancing steeds, closed around their Sultan, whose simple
+apparel offered a striking contrast to their splendid appointments,
+glittering with highly-burnished arms, which flashed and sparkled in the
+noon-day sun. Abdel Kader rode a few paces in front, mounted on a
+magnificent black charger, which he handled with extraordinary
+dexterity, sometimes making it spring with all fours in the air,
+sometimes making it walk for several yards on its hind legs, and
+evidently seeking to make an impression by his superior horsemanship.
+Several Arabs ran by his side, holding his stirrups, and the ends of his
+burnous.
+
+General Bugeaud now dashed forward at full gallop, and on reaching the
+Emir, shook hands with him. Both alighted, and seating themselves on the
+grass, entered into the following conversation.
+
+_Bugeaud._—“Do you know that there are very few generals who would have
+dared to make the treaty I have concluded with you? But I have not been
+afraid of aggrandising you, and adding to your power, because I felt
+assured that you would only employ the great existence which we give you
+in ameliorating the condition of the Arab nation, and in maintaining
+peace and a good understanding with France.”
+
+_Abdel Kader._—“I thank you for your good sentiments towards me. Please
+God, I will make the Arabs happy; and if the peace is ever broken, it
+will be no fault of mine.”
+
+_B._—“On this point, I am your security with the King of the French.”
+
+_A._—“You risk nothing in so doing: we have a religion which obliges us
+to keep our word. I have never been faithless to mine.”
+
+_B._—“I count on it; and it is in this conviction I offer you my
+personal friendship.”
+
+_A._—“I accept your friendship, but let the French beware of listening
+to intriguers.”
+
+_B._—“The French are never led by individuals, and it is not the acts of
+individuals which can break the peace: it is only the non-execution of
+the treaty, or some great act of hostility. As to the culpable acts of
+individuals, we will be on our guard against them, or punish them
+reciprocally.”
+
+_A._—“Very good. You have only to give me notice, and the guilty shall
+be punished.”
+
+_B._—“I recommend to your good offices the Kolouglis who may remain at
+Tlemsen.”
+
+_A._—“Be easy on that score; they shall be treated like citizens.”
+
+_B._—“You have promised me that you will locate the Douairs amongst the
+Hafras: the country will, perhaps, not be sufficient for them.”
+
+_A._—“They shall be located in such a manner as not to endanger the
+maintenance of peace.”
+
+_B._—“Have you ordered commercial relations at Algiers, and around the
+towns, to be resumed?”
+
+_A._—“Not yet; but I mean to do so, when you have put me in possession
+of Tlemsen.”
+
+_B._—“You must know, I cannot do so until the treaty has been approved
+of by the King.”
+
+_A._—“What, then, have not you the power to treat?”
+
+_B._—“Yes; but the treaty must be approved. That is necessary for you,
+as a guarantee; for if it was only made by me, any general who might
+replace me would be able to undo it; whereas, once approved by the King,
+my successor would be obliged to abide by it.”
+
+_A._—“If you do not give me back Tlemsen, in accordance with the
+stipulation in the treaty, I do not see the necessity of making peace:
+we shall only have a truce.”
+
+_B._—“That is true. But it is you who will be the gainer by the truce;
+for, while it lasts, I shall not destroy the crops.”
+
+_A._—“Destroy them, if you like: it will be all the same to me. I will
+give you my full permission, in writing, to destroy all you can. It will
+only be a very small quantity you can get at, and the Arabs will still
+have abundance of grain.”
+
+_B._—“I don’t think the Arabs are of the same opinion.”
+
+Abdel Kadir now asked how long it would be before the confirmation of
+the treaty arrived from France.
+
+_B._—“About three weeks.”
+
+_A._—“That is rather long. At all events, we cannot reestablish our
+commercial relations until after the King’s approbation shall have
+arrived. Then the peace will be definitive.”
+
+_B._—“It is only your co-religionists who will be the sufferers; for you
+will be depriving them of a commerce of which they stand in need. As for
+us, we can get all we want by sea.”
+
+The General, not wishing to prolong the interview, as it was getting
+late, rose to take leave. Abdel Kader remained sitting, and affected to
+be engaged with his interpreter, who was standing beside him. Bugeaud,
+suspecting his motive, took him familiarly by the hand, and pulled him
+up, saying at the same time, “_Parbleu_, when a French General rises,
+you may as well rise too—you!”
+
+Thus ended this singular meeting, at which the French General had merely
+gratified an idle, though pardonable, curiosity; but which, from the
+premeditated delays and misunderstandings that immediately preceded it,
+gave Abdel Kader the immense advantage of appearing in the eyes of his
+countrymen as a grand personage, who kept even the leaders of the
+infidels awaiting his good pleasure and convenience. Abdel Kader, after
+shaking the General again by the hands, now vaulted into his saddle; and
+both armies moved off the ground to the strains of martial music, the
+Arabs shouting enthusiastically—“Long live our Sultan, Abdel Kader! may
+God ever make him victorious!”
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IX.
+
+                                 1838.
+
+
+The Treaty of the Tafna was warmly applauded by the French Government,
+who regarded it as a master-stroke of policy. The French people looked
+on it as a humiliation. The former boasted that Abdel Kader from being
+an enemy had been transformed into an ally. The latter saw in it the
+criminal surrender of a French province to a rival power. To Abdel Kader
+it was the corner-stone of the edifice he had so long been laboriously
+and perseveringly constructing.
+
+For years a double duty had been imposed on him—on the one hand, that of
+moulding into shape and consistency the discordant materials which lay
+scattered around him, appeasing feuds, allaying discords, and quelling
+insurrections; on the other, that of boldly confronting the formidable
+attacks of an enemy, immeasurably his superior in all the means and
+appliances which raise war to the dignity of a science. Relieved from
+external pressure, he was enabled to grapple with his whole and
+undivided strength against internal difficulties.
+
+He now stood face to face with a people who looked on their emancipation
+from a foreign yoke as the signal for unbounded licence, whose only idea
+of liberty was freedom from restraint, and who, while they recognised
+and even obeyed the genius which had risen up amongst them, when
+directed against their foes, shunned and dreaded it when brought to bear
+upon themselves. Whole tribes of Arabs, now freed from the harassing
+excitement, the heavy demands, the constant liabilities, the ever-
+recurring hazards and uncertainties of a state of war, seemed bent on
+resuming, each in its little sphere, a separate and independent
+existence.
+
+Thinking only of their selfish and individual interests, and unable to
+comprehend that a continuance of their newly-acquired independence could
+only be upheld by a continuation of those sacrifices which had enabled
+them to achieve it, these little democracies could see no use or
+occasion for a central government, and grudged contributing towards the
+expenses necessary to support it.
+
+The extensive organisation which Abdel Kader contemplated, which he was
+already carrying out, and which could alone consolidate a power capable
+of permanently resisting external attacks—and in his keen foresight he
+felt that they were only temporarily suspended—manifestly required the
+enforcement of certain imports throughout the vast extent of country now
+committed to his charge.
+
+The short-sightedness and avarice of the Arabs prevented them from
+seeing any such necessity, and although Abdel Kader never in his life
+exacted from his subjects more than the _ashur_ and the _zekka_ (all
+other imports, including custom-house duties, being held in abomination
+by the Koran), yet the recusants had a line of argument always ready to
+exonerate themselves from the obligation of paying taxes.
+
+“They wanted,” they said, “no legislature; they could manage their own
+concerns. If the war should break out again, then it would be time
+enough for the Sultan to call on them to pay their contributions, but
+why were they to pay them in time of peace? That the Turks should have
+been always craving for money was natural and comprehensible. The Turks
+had harems of a hundred women each, dancing girls, hybrid boys, and all
+sorts of combinations of profligate expenditure to maintain.”
+
+“The name of a Turk,” they argued, “was, and is, and ever will be, as
+long as the pest exists, the synonym for villainy and corruption. But
+what did Abdel Kader want with money? He had only one wife. His days and
+nights, when not at war, were spent in study and prayer. His gardens at
+Cachero were more than enough to defray all his expenses.”
+
+Abdel Kader made short work with such of these reasoners as were within
+his reach. Their doctrine of resistance was never permitted to be more
+than a grumbling theory. But in the distant provinces, which had lately
+been consigned to him, and over which he had hitherto only exercised the
+influence inherent to his great deeds, that doctrine had in many parts
+assumed shape and substance.
+
+In the southern parts of the provinces of Tittery, his demands for the
+usual contributions were peremptorily rejected, and a league was formed
+to resist their payment, headed by one Ibn Mochtar, a chief from the
+Sahara, near Boghar; the Beni Mochtar, the Beni Nail, the Beni Mousa,
+the Beni Abid, the Zenekara, presented a formidable confederacy. Abdel
+Kader saw that he had not a moment to lose. He felt that he must at once
+crush the opposition, or resign his sceptre.
+
+Summoning contingents from his faithful tribes in the province of Oran,
+so as to form an effective force of 8,000 cavalry and 1,000 infantry, he
+ordered Ibn Allal, his Khalifa at Miliana, to meet him in the country of
+the Zenakera, with all the regulars and irregulars under his command.
+The whole force when assembled constituted an array of 12,000 cavalry
+and 2,000 infantry, with some pieces of cannon.
+
+On his way to the place of rendezvous, he passed by Mascara. His wife,
+who had not seen him for many months, sent messengers begging him to
+turn aside, though only for a day. He stoically replied, he was wedded
+to his country, and went on. Such was the intensity of his purpose and
+the all-absorbing influence of his devotion to his duty, that more than
+two years at one time elapsed without his allowing himself time to go
+and see his family.
+
+Before resorting to force, Abdel Kader attempted persuasion. He wrote a
+letter to the disaffected tribes, in which he conjured them, in the name
+of the Prophet, to obey the law; to imitate the tribes of the north and
+west in their obedience, and to beware of the pernicious counsels of
+designing men. In the same document he promised to overlook the past,
+if, returning to better sentiments, they came and presented themselves
+before him with “horses of submission.” “Do not trust in the number of
+your warriors,” he concluded, “for were the number double I should
+overcome them; God is with me, and Him I obey. Do not flatter yourselves
+you can escape me. I swear you are no more to me than a glass of water
+in the hands of a thirsty man.”
+
+The letter had no effect, and Abdel Kader advanced to the attack. The
+battle lasted for three days. Finally the rebels gave way, and
+dispersed. The Beni Antar held out for some days behind entrenchments
+which they had thrown up, over what they conceived to be impregnable
+heights, in the fastnesses near Boghar; but they also were ultimately
+reduced. Ibn Mochtar surrendered, and, coming in person, craved the
+Sultan’s mercy. Not only did he obtain grace, but, to his surprise, he
+was named the Sultan’s Khalifa over the subdued tribes. He was ever
+afterwards one of Abdel Kader’s most faithful adherents.
+
+Success, as usual, was followed by fresh submissions. All the tribes
+along the southern frontiers of the province of Constantine sent
+deputies to the Sultan, inviting him to come amongst them. His
+moderation and good faith, as well as his loyal adhesion to the treaty
+of the Tafna, alone prevented him carrying his standards to the walls of
+Constantine itself.
+
+Abdel Kader now returned to Medea. His entry was triumphal. For miles
+ere he reached the gates, the road was thronged with thousands who had
+flocked from all the villages round about to feast their eyes on the
+mighty chief whose fame had long been made familiar to their
+imaginations. Shouts of “Long live our victorious Sultan Abdel Kader!”
+resounded in the distance, and heralded from afar his approach to the
+city. There fresh tokens of enthusiasm awaited him. Garlands of flowers
+were strewn on his path, and perfumed waters sprinkled on his head. He
+rode straight to the mosque, entered, prayed, and preached. For weeks
+presents and offerings poured in from all parts. The great Sheiks, the
+Marabouts, the Cadis of Tittery, and several even from Oran, headed by
+the Khalifas of districts, came in state to offer their congratulations
+to the victorious Sultan. It was now considered by many that Abdel Kader
+had reached the pinnacle of greatness. He himself was seriously
+contemplating a retirement into private life. But much remained to be
+done before he could conscientiously resign the task he had sworn to
+accomplish.
+
+His whole attention was now turned towards an obstacle which had long
+chafed and ruffled his soaring spirit. Far away to the south of the
+great Sahara, in the province of Laghouat, about two hundred miles from
+Oran, ranged ten powerful and numerous tribes, called the Beni Arasch.
+They had hitherto, amidst all the battle and turmoil which had been
+raging in the north, kept coolly aloof from the exciting contest in
+which their countrymen had been engaged. Abdel Kader had frequently
+summoned them to send their cavalry contingents, but in vain.
+
+Their principal chief and Marabout, El Hadj Mohammed ibn Salem il
+Tejini, refused altogether to entertain the idea that there was to be an
+Arab Sultan in the land. He accordingly left all Abdel Kader’s letters
+unanswered, and disdained even to receive his orders for the delivery,
+to his agent, of the legal contributions; secure, as he thought, in his
+distance, his fortress, and his sands, he set Abdel Kader at defiance.
+His confidence, at the same time, was increased by his possession of a
+town, strongly fortified after the fashion of the Arabs, called Ain
+Maadi.
+
+This place had been repeatedly besieged by the Turks, and with repeated
+failures. In 1826, the brother of Tejini had even attacked the Turks in
+their turn, and had menaced Mascara. Already had he gained a footing in
+the town, when Hassan Bey, of Oran, came to its relief. Tejini drew off
+his forces to the plain of Eghrees, and there gave his adversary battle,
+but was defeated and slain. Hassan advanced on Ain Maadi; but Hadj
+Mohammed, who had succeeded his brother in the command of the tribes,
+compelled him to retire. From that day, Mohammed Tejini had comported
+himself as a small independent sovereign.
+
+Ain Maadi contained only three hundred houses; but it had its kasbah, or
+serail, and was surrounded by thick walls, flanked with towers. Gardens
+spread around it; and these, also, were capable of defence. The spring
+of Ain Maadi, from which the town took its name, though at some
+distance, poured its limpid stream, by means of a canal, into the
+kasbah. Wells of rain water supplied the wants of the inhabitants.
+
+Abdel Kader was still at Medea, when a certain Hadj Aissa, of Laghouat,
+came, accompanied by several chiefs of the Beni Arasch, to offer him
+presents, and “horses of submission.” The Hadj announced, that owing to
+the influence he exercised over the majority of those tribes, they most
+of them desired to acknowledge Abdel Kader as their Sultan, and that he
+had only to show himself amongst them to be joyfully received. Abdel
+Kader, flattered by an adhesion which gave so satisfactory a testimony
+to the influence of his name in the province of Laghouat, appointed the
+Hadj his Khalifa over that oasis of the south, gave him proclamations
+for distribution, in which he called on the Beni Arasch to obey his
+lieutenants, and dismissed him with the assurance that he would shortly
+come in person to receive the proffered allegiance.
+
+The time had now come when he could strike a blow at Tejini. On the 12th
+of June, 1838, he advanced towards Ain Maadi at the head of 6,000
+cavalry, 3,000 infantry, six mortars, and three field-pieces. The place
+was reached after a tedious march of ten days over large sandy wastes.
+Tejini, taken by surprise, and having made no preparations for
+sustaining a siege, had barely time to shut the gates and, organise, as
+well as he could, the 600 Arabs who were at the moment within its walls.
+
+For some time he attempted to defend the gardens with skirmishers led
+out at night, and able, by their knowledge of the localities, to harass
+the enemy in his approaches. These endeavours gradually failed. The
+besieged were confined within their ramparts. The Sultan ordered all the
+trees to be cut down. Batteries were erected in the spaces thus
+obtained; and the fire commenced. On the fourth day, the European
+engineer, who commanded this operation, declared the breach that had
+been made to be practicable. A storming party was told off; but on the
+morrow, the breach was found to have been repaired. Again and again the
+process of breaching and repairing was mutually effected.
+
+On the fifteenth day, Abdel Kader challenged Tejini to come out and
+fight him in presence of both armies drawn up to witness the encounter;
+and proposed that the fate of the place should depend on the result.
+Tejini, though young and brave, prudently declined the test. Abdel Kader
+now commenced mining. The mine in due time reached the walls. Tejini
+made a countermine; and in these mines several serious encounters took
+place.
+
+In this manner the siege was prolonged for months; the brave defenders,
+the while, were eking out their existence from their small stores of
+corn and barley, which now barely sufficed to keep them from starvation.
+The besiegers, on their side, were dependent for their supplies on the
+arrival of convoys from the north; and these convoys, even, were liable
+to be intercepted. More than 2,000 cavalry were constantly employed for
+their protection through the Sahara. Hadj Aissa was of no use whatever.
+He turned out to be an impostor.
+
+Both sides were at last perishing from sheer exhaustion. Their
+ammunition was all but expended. The anxiety of Abdel Kader was intense.
+He had often before been in straits and difficulties; but never had he
+been engaged in a struggle which involved more important consequences.
+He well knew that if he acknowledged himself baffled by raising the
+siege, he should have all the Sahara on his hands; and he declared he
+would die on the spot, rather than give in.
+
+At this critical juncture, Abdel Kader had the unexpected satisfaction
+of receiving some fresh supplies of ammunition, and three siege pieces,
+from his French allies. A diplomatic difficulty had arisen as to the
+right interpretation of a certain article in the treaty of the Tafna;
+and the Governor-General hoped to gain the Sultan’s compliance with his
+version of the disputed passage, by thus generously aiding him in his
+extremity. This opportune assistance turned the scales, which were still
+trembling in the balance.
+
+Tejini surrendered. On the 17th of November, 1838, a treaty was signed
+between him and Mustapha ibn Taamy, the Sultan’s brother-in-law. By this
+treaty, the former engaged to evacuate the Ain Maadi in eight days, and
+to retire thence with his family and his immediate followers to
+Laghouat. His eldest son was to remain as a hostage in the Sultan’s
+camp. Abdel Kader, at the expiration of the term, rased the town to the
+ground. Two tribes of the Beni Arasch, in the immediate vicinity, at
+once sent in the _ashur_ and the _zekka_. The other tribes still
+refused. A terrible retribution awaited them.
+
+The following dispatch, announcing the success of Abdel Kader, was
+forwarded to Hadj il Taib, his agent at Oran:—
+
+“God having given us the mission to watch over the welfare of
+Mussulmans, and to take on us the direction of all the people in this
+land, submissive to the law of our Lord Mohammed (prayer and salutation
+be to him), we marched into the Sahara—not to harm the true believers,
+not to humble and destroy them—but to awaken their faith, to consolidate
+them into a common bond of union, and to establish order.
+
+“All listened to our voice, and obeyed as much as circumstances would
+permit. El Tejini alone refused. We found ourselves face to face with
+those who had been seduced by him. They were preparing to fight us. We
+conjured them, for the love of God and the Prophet, to come over to us.
+To this effect, we recalled to their minds several passages of the
+sacred writings. All was in vain. We despaired of their conversion. Yet
+we feared that if we were indulgent to them, we should miss the object
+we have solely in view. This object is, to rally all the Arabs round one
+common centre, to instruct the ignorant in the law of the Prophet, to
+prevent the spread of evil examples amongst them, to preserve them from
+the corrupting influences of certain towns, and to enable them, their
+wives, and children, to live in peace and security.
+
+“Therefore, exercising our sovereign right, and moreover being the
+injured party, we ordered our victorious soldiers to fight them.
+Religion ordained it. They fled before our troops. Again we entreated
+them to listen to us. Again they refused. Tejini declared that he
+counted on the strength of his ramparts and the courage of his
+followers. Then the place was closely besieged. Our miners having
+reached the foot of the walls, the inhabitants, in consternation, prayed
+for pardon and deliverance. Although they had deceived us more than
+once, both were accorded them; for the Most High has said, ‘Pardon and
+forget.’ We hope that he will remember our conduct on this occasion, and
+have mercy upon us for the sake of the blood we have spared, and the
+women whose chastity we have protected.
+
+“Pardon was granted to all the inhabitants on condition that they should
+leave the town and go and reside elsewhere, wherever they chose. All
+have left. Tejini, with his harem and children, have gone to Laghouat,
+but his eldest son remains a hostage in our hands. May God ever grant us
+the victory, and preserve us from misfortune.
+
+“Oh Mussulmans, pray to God for your Sultan. He only labours for your
+welfare. Rejoice, and call on God to strengthen and confirm him. Trust
+in the Divine mercy. Read the chapter of the Koran, ‘Amran,’ and say,
+‘Oh Thou that rulest the universes, Thou givest and takest away
+according to Thy will, and Thou choosest and Thou raisest up, at Thy
+good pleasure. In Thy hands is all good. Thou alone art all powerful.
+Thou changest the night into day, and the day into night. Thou bringest
+forth life from the midst of death. Without any effort, Thou prosperest
+whomsoever Thou wilt.’ Oh Mussulmans, seek not protectors from among the
+Infidel, only look for them amongst the true believers.”
+
+Abdel Kader returned to Mascara. But the defiant attitude and hostile
+demonstrations of the Beni Arasch, who had already had the audacity to
+attack his convoys, preyed upon his mind. He had, moreover, indubitable
+proofs that they had been in correspondence with the French. By the
+rules of the Koran, they deserved death. After allowing his troops a few
+weeks’ repose, he announced an expedition; 5,000 cavalry, and cavalry
+alone, were ordered to hold themselves in readiness.
+
+On the day appointed, they assembled on the plain of Eghrees. None knew
+or guessed what was to be the nature or direction of the expedition. It
+was the depth of winter. Each man had been ordered to supply himself
+with a bag of corn and a bag of barley, and no more. No mules nor tents
+were required. At sunset Abdel Kader appeared, mounted his horse, and
+led his forces at a brisk trot towards the north-west.
+
+It soon became dark. Four men in advance carried lanterns affixed to the
+points of their spears. The lanterns were lighted, and muffled in front,
+but their rays streamed far away to the rear, over the cavalcade.
+
+Suddenly a countermarch was directed, and the party bore off towards the
+south-east. The previous direction had been a feint. At midnight the
+troops of the expedition reached a rivulet. All dismounted. The horses
+were fed. Abdel Kader and his men ground their corn as well as they
+could, between stones, and making a paste of flour and water, partook of
+food. After a rest of three hours the troops were directed to remount.
+Again they rode on at a brisk trot, which occasionally broke into a
+canter, till mid-day. Then another short halt was made, and then again
+the expedition rode on as before till near midnight, and then only were
+food and rest once more taken. Thus they pursued their way for four days
+and nights.
+
+As dawn broke on the morning of the fifth day, the vast encampments of
+the Beni Arasch burst upon their view, spreading away to the horizon.
+More than ten thousand tents covered the plains. The Arabs were
+sleeping. A wild and prolonged shout roused them from their slumbers.
+They rushed out to learn the cause, and saw to their dismay a crowd of
+cavalry swooping down upon them like a whirlwind.
+
+Frantic cries of “Abdel Kader, Abdel Kader!” now filled the air. The
+women and children ran about screaming. The men, amazed and bewildered,
+appeared to have lost their senses. Some flew instinctively to their
+arms, others took to their horses. But before they could collect, form,
+or rally, the storm was on them. “Spare the harems,” cried Abdel Kader,
+as he led on the onslaught, “but as for those dogs, treat them as they
+deserve.”
+
+Driving the Beni Arasch before them like a flock of sheep, charging and
+chasing them in all directions, Abdel Kader and his cavalry soon
+succeeded in securing the principal Sheiks. Moved by their piteous
+entreaties and solemn assurances of future good conduct, Abdel Kader
+mercifully refrained from inflicting capital punishment. The tribes,
+however, were compelled to pay up, on the spot, five years’ arrears of
+the _ashur_ and the _zekka_, and to furnish a contribution of 4,000
+camels and 30,000 sheep. Warned by this example, the Beni Arasch became
+ever after Abdel Kader’s most faithful adherents, and remained constant
+to him to the last.
+
+
+
+
+                               CHAPTER X.
+
+                                 1838.
+
+
+The facility with which the French had taken possession of Mascara and
+Tlemsen, convinced Abdel Kader of the necessity of having strongholds
+beyond the easy reach of their incursions. The plan which he projected
+and carried into effect had the double object of resisting the French
+invasion, and of cementing his own authority over the Arabs. It bears
+the highest testimony to his military genius. No better explanation of
+this design can be given than in the words which Abdel Kader addressed
+in after times to General Daumas, who had for three years resided at his
+head-quarters in the capacity of consul.
+
+“With the twofold view of imposing on the turbulent tribes of the
+Sahara, and keeping myself beyond the reach of your attacks, I had
+constructed on the limits of the Tell, at great expense and amidst
+innumerable difficulties, a certain number of forts, which you
+afterwards destroyed. They were situated, in setting out from the west,
+at Sebdou; to the south of Tlemsen, at Saida; to the south of Mascara,
+at Tekedemt; to the south-east of the same town, at Taza; to the south
+of Miliana, at Boghar; to the south of Medea, at Bel Kherout, south-east
+of Algiers; and, lastly, at Biskra, to the south of Constantine.
+
+“I was convinced, in fact, that whenever the war re-commenced, I should
+be obliged to abandon to you all the towns of the central line of the
+Atlas; but that it would be impossible for you, at least for a long
+time, to reach the Sahara; because the transports which encumber your
+armies would be a great obstacle in your way. Marshal Bugeaud proved to
+me that I was mistaken; but at the time I had only the experience of my
+action with his predecessors.
+
+“Nevertheless, even in face of the system pursued by Marshal Bugeaud,
+you would have found almost insurmountable difficulties in trying to
+reach my true line of defence, if the Arabs had only agreed to my
+proposition of rasing to the ground, and utterly destroying, the towns
+of Medea, Miliana, Mascara, and Tlemsen: that is to say, the steps of
+the ladder by which you gradually mounted so high.
+
+“Some argued that the French would soon re-build what I had destroyed;
+others, that it would be cruel to throw down, merely in view of an
+eventuality, what it had cost so much to erect. Both sides were wrong: I
+ought to have followed out my own inspiration.
+
+“Tekedemt, according to my project, was to have become a large town—a
+binding centre of commerce—between the Tell and the Sahara. The Arabs
+were pleased with its situation. They came there with much pleasure,
+because it afforded them great advantages. It was also a thorn I had
+placed in the eye of the independent tribes of the desert. They could
+neither escape me, nor incommode me. I held them by their bodily wants.
+The Sahara producing no crops, they would have been obliged to come to
+me for food. I had built Tekedemt over their heads. They felt it, and
+hastened to make their submission.
+
+“In fact, from this time, I could always come upon them unexpectedly
+with my _goums_ (irregular cavalry), and at least carry off their flocks
+and herds, if I did not stop to take their tents. The severe examples I
+made of some of the most distant tribes soon made them give up all hopes
+of being able to elude me. Thus all had finished by submitting to my
+authority, and regularly paying the _ashur_ and the _zekka_. I used even
+to send and count their flocks, and they said not a word.
+
+“There are only four points in the desert which my authority had not
+reached: Mzab, Ourgla, Tougourt, and the Souf. The Benis Sidi Cheikh,
+however, had all acknowledged me. It is true I had granted them certain
+privileges, and I allowed them to pay a reduced impost; but they were a
+tribe of Marabouts, and it was my duty to pay them a certain degree of
+deference. As to the _ksours_ (entrenched villages in the Sahara), they
+paid me little; nor did I care to be strict with them. They looked on my
+forbearance as a concession to their poverty. At a later period,
+however, I should have made them amenable to my orders, and have brought
+them into complete subjection.”
+
+Tekedemt, the town which Abdel Kader raised from its ruins, intending to
+make it the capital of his kingdom, had been built by the Romans. It is
+situated sixty miles to the south-east of Oran. Judging from the remains
+of its walls, it must have been ten miles in circumference. It contained
+two large temples. During the prosperous days of Arab dominion in
+Algeria, it was a seat of government, had a college, and produced its
+doctors and poets. The wars between the Caliphs of Kerouan and Fez,
+towards the close of the tenth century, doomed it to final destruction
+and oblivion.
+
+The first stone of the new fortress was laid by Abdel Kader in May,
+1836. He himself supplied the plans for the fortifications which were to
+surround it. He remitted the payment of tribute to all the tribes within
+a certain distance, on the condition of their sending labourers to
+assist in the construction of the ramparts. The people of Mascara
+brought baskets, shovels, and pickaxes. Medea and Miliana sent supplies
+of cheese and fruits of all kinds, which, with excellent white bread,
+and occasionally meat rations, formed the food and wages of the workmen.
+Soon houses and streets arose. A population poured in. Families of
+Arabs, of Moors, of Kolouglis, from Mascara, Mazagnan, and Mostaganem,
+came and settled. Old Roman vaults were turned into stores for
+ammunition, sulphur, saltpetre, brass, lead, and iron; and for all the
+machines, implements, and utensils which Miloud-ibn-Arasch had bought in
+France for the sum of £4,000. A musket manufactory turned out eight
+muskets a day, the work of French mechanics procured from Paris at
+liberal salaries.
+
+A mint struck off silver and copper coins, ranging in value from five
+shillings to twopence, and bearing on one side the inscription, “It is
+the will of God: I have appointed him my agent;” on the other, “Struck
+at Tekedemt, by the Sultan Abdel Kader.” Finally, twelve pieces of
+cannon and six mortars frowned from the ramparts; and the defences were
+complete.
+
+Abdel Kader superintended all the works by constant personal inspection.
+M. de France, who was one of his prisoners during the time that these
+works were in their highest activity, thus describes what he saw:—“After
+having visited the ruins, we came to a redoubt which Abdel Kader was
+erecting at about two hundred paces from his citadel. We approached the
+Sultan, who was reclining, in company with Ibn About, his secretary, and
+Miloud-ibn-Arasch, on the ground recently thrown up from a ditch which
+some men were busily digging.
+
+“His costume is so simple, that one can hardly distinguish him from the
+labourers. He wore a large straw hat, plaited with palm leaves. The
+brim, tied up to the body of the hat with woollen cords and tassels,
+must have been three feet in circumference. The hat itself was at least
+a foot and a half in height, and looked like a tunnel terminating in a
+peak.
+
+“As I passed the Sultan, he saluted me with that incomparable grace and
+fascinating smile for which he is so remarkable, and waved his hand for
+me to be seated. ‘To judge by the ruins,’ I remarked, ‘the town which
+was formerly here must have been large and flourishing.’ ‘Yes, it was
+very fine and very powerful,’ he answered. ‘Does the epoch of its
+foundation remount to a very ancient date?’ ‘Tekedemt is a very ancient
+town.’ ‘Do you think I shall be able to discover any stones with
+inscriptions?’ ‘You will find none. This town was never Christian. It
+was one of the first cities built by the Arabs. The sultans, my
+ancestors, who had their residence at Tekedemt, ruled from Tunis to
+Morocco.’
+
+“The Sultan then asked me what I thought of the construction of the
+fortifications. I replied that they appeared to me to be well
+proportioned and ably laid out, and that it was evident he had profited
+by a critical examination of our block-houses. He seemed quite pleased
+with my answer.
+
+“‘Yes,’ he resumed, ‘with animation, I hope yet to restore Tekedemt to
+its ancient splendour. I will gather the tribes in this place, where we
+shall be secure from the attacks of the French; and when all my forces
+are collected, I will descend from this steep rock, like a vulture from
+his nest, and drive the Christians out of Algiers, Bona, and Oran.
+
+“‘If, indeed, you were content with those cities, I would suffer you to
+remain there; for the sea is not mine, and I have no ships. But you want
+our plains and our inland cities, and our mountains. Nay, you even covet
+our horses, our tents, our camels, and our women; and you leave your own
+country to come and take that in which Mohammed has placed his people.
+But your sultan is not a horseman or a saint; and your horses will
+stumble and fall on our mountains, for they are not surefooted like our
+horses; and your soldiers will die of sickness; and those whom the
+pestilence spares, will fall by our bullets.’”
+
+Had Abdel Kader been allowed time to complete his intentions, it was his
+design to have made Tekedemt not merely a place of strength, but a seat
+of learning; to have established a library and founded a college. “But,”
+to use his own expression, “God did not so will it. The books which I
+had brought from all parts of the east for this institution, were taken
+when the king’s son seized my smala; and to my other misfortunes was
+added that of being able to mark the traces of the French column, on
+their return to Medea, by the torn and scattered leaves of the books
+which it had cost me so much time and pains to collect.”
+
+During the years 1838 and 1839 Abdel Kader pushed on his plans of reform
+and improvement with wonderful rapidity. His army, his police, his
+schools, his local tribunals of justice, were all fully constituted. His
+projected fortresses were completed. Manufactories conducted by
+Europeans were in full operation in all his principal towns. At Tlemsen,
+a Spaniard superintended a cannon foundry, which turned out twelve and
+six pounders.
+
+In Miliana, an eminent French mineralogist, M. de Casse, established a
+musket manufactory and powder-mills. Iron was procured from a mine in
+the neighbourhood. Cloth of superior quality was also manufactured.
+Mines of saltpetre, sulphur, iron, and brass, were diligently worked.
+Europeans were invited to come and settle in the country, with the right
+of holding freehold property. The land seemed to be waking up from a
+long slumber. The spirit of European civilisation everywhere percolated
+the torpid mass, lighting up the dark places, and piercing its way into
+the strongholds of ignorance and superstition.
+
+The irregular force at Abdel Kader’s disposal, during the early part of
+his career, amounted nominally to nearly 60,000 men. This included all
+the contingents which the tribes could, on emergency, supply. But rarely
+more than a third of that number ever assembled at one time, for the
+purpose of carrying out a military operation. A finer irregular cavalry
+did not exist.
+
+But Abdel Kader soon discovered the incompetency of such warriors to
+compete with the disciplined legions of the great military power he
+confronted. But to raise regular troops amongst a people who, even in
+the days of Turkish rule, had never been harassed by a conscription, and
+whose nature revolted at the very idea, was a hazardous experiment,
+requiring great tact and circumspection. Such a design could only be
+hinted at as a suggestion, not promulgated as a command.
+
+Accordingly, the following friendly invitation was posted up in all the
+towns and douairs:—“Whoever wishes to be clothed in fine cloth, and to
+become the son of the Sultan, let him come and engage himself: he shall
+be well paid, and indulged in everything.” Several young men were
+tempted by the inducement thus held out to present themselves for
+enlistment; and the formation of a regular army almost imperceptibly
+began.
+
+Abdel Kader thus describes his military organisation:—“Besides the
+contingents of tribes who rallied at my call, or that of my Khalifas,
+and which constituted a powerful auxiliary force, although merely
+temporary, inasmuch as I was never able to keep them away from their
+tribes for any great length of time, I had latterly a regular army of
+8,000 infantry, 2,000 cavalry or spahis, and 240 artillerymen. I had
+twenty field-pieces, without reckoning a large store of cannons both in
+iron and brass left by the Turks, many of which, however, it is true,
+were unfit for service.
+
+“I could thus afford to give each of my Khalifas 1,000 infantry, 250
+horsemen, two or three pieces of cannon, and thirty artillerymen. My
+infantry was recruited only by volunteers; but they were sufficient,
+considering my pecuniary means and the arms at my disposal. Later, if
+time had been afforded me, I should have used the French mode of raising
+soldiers. My religion would not have prevented me, for a Sultan may have
+recourse to enrolments to sustain the honour of his flag, and to save
+his country from Christian invasion.
+
+“The instructors of my regular infantry were soldiers of the _nizam_,
+from Tunis and Tripoli, and French deserters. The latter became so
+numerous at last as to form a battalion of themselves, and fought
+against their own countrymen with a fury and desperation which was
+hardly rivalled by my own Mussulmans. I distributed them amongst my
+Khalifas.
+
+“As for my regular cavalry, they refused to be placed under instructors.
+In their style of war they were led by an independent pride which
+disdained to acknowledge a master. They knew they were worth nothing for
+a shock; but they thought themselves unrivalled in single combat, in
+ambuscade, surprise, and light skirmishing. It was no dishonour to them
+to fly before even inferior forces; their flight being often a mere
+feint. To do as much injury as possible to the enemy without exposing
+themselves to loss—that was the principle I inculcated on them.
+
+“All my regulars were armed with French or English muskets. I got them
+in battles, from deserters, or by purchase from Morocco. Every Arab
+found with a French musket in his possession, was obliged to sell it to
+me for a sum amounting to two English pounds sterling. He then provided
+himself with a _fusil_ as best he could, either in the bazaars, or, when
+the tribe of the desert, coming to the Tell, inundated the country with
+arms from Tunis, from Tougourt, from the Mzab, and the Oulad-Sidi-
+Cheikh. I made my own powder at Tlemsen, Mascara, Miliana, Medea, and
+Tekedemt. I bought a good deal, also, from Morocco, where I also
+procured flints, of which our own country was completely destitute.
+Sulphur came from France. Saltpetre I found everywhere.
+
+“During the peace, the French sea-coast towns supplied me with lead;
+Morocco yielded me a considerable quantity; and I worked a lead mine in
+the Ouarsenis. But all this was very costly; so I was very sparing in my
+distribution of the stores of the Beylik amongst the Arabs, who squander
+away their powder without reflection, in their festivities and games. I
+only deviated from this principle in favour of those who were employed
+in blockading the French garrisons, or when, on the field of battle, the
+ammunition ran short. I then distributed cartridges on the spot.
+
+“At the seat of government of each of my Khalifas, I had placed tailors,
+armourers, and saddlers, to make the clothing of my troops, repair their
+arms, and keep up their horse-equipments. I had also distributed many
+such workmen amongst the tribe, so as to make them also ready and
+efficient at a moment’s call. To meet the expenses of my administration,
+where everything had to be created, and though confining myself to what
+was strictly necessary, heavy imposts were indispensable.
+
+“I ordered my Khalifas to watch, personally, over everything connected
+with such an important matter. They made their tours twice a-year; once
+in the spring to collect the _zekka_, and during the harvest to gather
+the _ashur_. During these tours, they were expected to inspect and
+regulate the administration of the Aghas, to report to me any complaints
+made against them, and to superintend the working of the properties of
+the Beylik.
+
+“My Khalifas were followed by a regular battalion, their Spahis, and
+their irregular cavalry. The Arab people are so constituted, that if
+they had not seen a display of force, they would have refused to pay the
+impost. After a temporary defeat, what difficulty have I not often
+experienced to raise again the proper return of contributions! ‘The
+Sultan,’ they would say, ‘is occupied with the Christians; he cannot
+compel us. Do not let us pay; let us see what will happen.’ What
+invariably happened was, that they had eventually to pay up everything,
+with arrears; but nothing corrected them. The Arabs only look to the
+present moment.
+
+“At the same time that I demanded from the tribes what was necessary to
+support the Beylik, I endeavoured, as much as possible, to reconcile
+their interests with those of the State. My Khalifas were instructed to
+accept, in lieu of the impost or of fines, articles for consumption,
+mules, camels, and especially horses. With the horses I remounted my
+cavalry; the mules and camels gave me means of transport; with the
+provisions, I supplied my troops, or filled my magazines.
+
+“My resources were also augmented by _razzias_, which I made whenever
+the tribes appealed to arms to fight out their differences. I was
+resolved to be the sole arbiter of these differences, and I had laid it
+down as a rule, that not a shot should be fired without my permission.
+The horses, mules, or camels which I did not immediately require were
+distributed amongst the tribes, under the charge of agents, who, while
+they were liberally paid, were so checked, as to be unable to defraud.
+
+“It was well I looked to the future; for the number of horses I had to
+replace in my regular cavalry was immense. There is not a man amongst
+these troops who had not had seven or eight horses killed under him, or
+rendered unserviceable. Indeed, it was not uncommon to find men who had
+lost from twelve to sixteen. Ibn Yahia—that noble soldier who, rather
+than survive my misfortunes, threw himself on certain death, in my last
+battle with the Maroccians (Dec., 1847)—had had eighteen horses killed
+under him. The emulation in this point was such, that any horseman who
+passed a year without being wounded or having a horse killed under him,
+was looked on with contempt.
+
+“As far as lay in my power, I also replaced the horses which my _goums_,
+or irregular cavalry contingents, lost in battle. They have had from me
+more than six thousand. But latterly, when I could no longer give them
+horses, I allowed them, in lieu of a horse, two camels, or thirty sheep,
+or a good mule. They sold those animals, and then with the price
+remounted themselves at their leisure. But, at last, I became so
+straitened as not even to be able to give them this indemnity.
+
+“To form an idea of the consumption of horses—in one year alone I gave
+500 to the Gharabas of Oran, and nearly as many to the Hagouts in the
+plains of Algiers. At the same time, there were many which I never
+attempted to replace, either because their proprietors were rich, or
+because I had no longer the means.
+
+“The flocks and cattle which came from the _zekka_ were entrusted to the
+tribe, under the superintendence of their Kaids. It was the duty of
+these officials to take account of them and appoint them shepherds, as
+well as to feed and take care of them. These animals, in the government
+of each Khalifa, served to defray the cost of guests, to support the
+poor, to assist the _tholbas_ (men of letters), and to supply my army,
+who had meat twice a-week. By these means, I had begun to establish
+complete order in the administration of the revenues of each Beylik. But
+when the war broke out again, I was often defrauded, and the Arabs on
+every side took advantage of my preoccupations. The only two Khalifas
+who maintained order to the last were Abou Hamadi and Ibn Hallal; they
+were dreaded from their severity.
+
+“The precautions which I have mentioned did not always suffice for the
+nourishment of my army, at all the points on which it was called on by
+the necessities of war to act. Therefore, as I did not wish to burden
+the population with extra expenses, that might have indisposed them
+towards me, I ordered _silos_ (underground vaults for corn) to be made
+in the territory of each Beylik. These _silos_, placed under the
+responsibility of the Kaid of each tribe, and so disposed as to escape
+the researches of the enemy, contained the grain of the _ashur_, or of
+the state lands, which were cultivated partly by forced, partly by paid,
+labour.
+
+I thus proved to the Arabs, who, from their nature, were always
+suspicious, that I took nothing for my personal wants from the imposts.
+I obliged them to pay for the general welfare, and they rendered me
+justice for it. The _silos_, in fact, postponed my fall. Their discovery
+and destruction by the French columns decided it. When once deprived of
+my stores of provisions, I was obliged to exhaust the resources of the
+tribe. When they felt the pressure from both sides fall heavy upon them,
+their ardour for the holy war relaxed.
+
+“As to me, what occasion was there for me to resort to the public
+treasury to defray my expenses? Never, up to the moment when my private
+property fell into the hands of the French, did I touch the smallest
+fraction of what the Arabs gave me for the public expenses; and since
+that, I have only taken what was absolutely necessary. My clothes were
+made by the women of my household; my little income sufficed for the
+wants of my family. Even the small surplus which was left me, I spent in
+assisting the poor, the traveller, and more especially the needy among
+my brave companions-in-arms who had been wounded in the holy war.
+
+“By acting thus, I could consistently call on the Arabs to make great
+sacrifices; for I showed them that the _zekka_, the _ashur_, fines,
+contributions—all my resources, in fact—were scrupulously devoted to the
+maintenance of the public welfare. In 1839, when the war recommenced, I
+called upon the Arabs for an extraordinary loan; but they contributed
+very slowly. I immediately sold all my family jewels by auction in the
+bazaars of Mascara, proclaiming publicly that the proceeds were to be
+sent to the public treasury. The loan was then very soon advanced; and
+it seemed only to be a question who should pay first.”
+
+As soon as Abdel Kader began to form a regular army, he drew up and
+published a military code, containing the most minute regulations for
+the discipline, pay, and clothing of his troops. This code was read out
+to the different regiments twice a month. It was interspersed with
+injunctions, and promises of reward for good behaviour, of which the
+following may be taken as an example:—
+
+“It is indispensably necessary that a chief should be personally brave
+and courageous; that he should be of a good family, irreproachable in
+his morals, strictly religious, patient, enduring, prudent, prompt, and
+intelligent in the hour of difficulty and danger; for the officer is to
+his men what the heart is to the body; if the heart is not sound, the
+body is worthless.
+
+“A soldier who throws himself dashingly on the enemy’s ranks, disables
+and disarms his foe, or, by rallying the men when on the point of
+retreating, prevents a panic by his example and presence of mind, shall
+be decorated by the Sultan himself before the whole army; and his
+heroism shall be proclaimed by beat of drum.”
+
+The decoration thus conferred varied in appearance, according to the
+bearer’s merits. It consisted of a silver or silver-gilt hand with
+extended fingers. The number of fingers extended notified the number of
+acts of bravery performed. Each finger extended entitled the bearer to
+extra pay, amounting to a shilling a month. In the centre of the
+decoration was inscribed the words _Nusr-ed-deen_, or “the triumph of
+religion.” It was worn, not on the breast, but affixed to one side of
+the hood of the burnous. It was sometimes also given to civilians who
+had rendered great administrative services.
+
+The uniform of the foot soldier was dark blue, with scarlet pantaloons,
+a brown capote, and a small cap and turban. His pay amounted to nine
+francs a month. On the right sleeve of each commanding officer were
+embroidered the words, “Patience and perseverance are the key to
+victory;” on the left, “There is no god but God, and Mohammed is his
+Prophet.” Embroidered on his right shoulder of the Aga, in place of an
+epaulette, were marked the words, “Nothing profits like piety and
+courage;” on the left, “Nothing is so injurious as discussion and want
+of obedience.”
+
+All the officers throughout the army had inscriptions of a like tendency
+embroidered on their uniforms. The spahis, or regular cavalry, were
+clothed in scarlet exclusively. Their colonels wore the device, “Trust
+in God and the Prophet—charge and conquer;” those of the artillery, “I
+can effect nothing: it is God who directs the shot.” Thus was religion,
+its duties and its efficacy, placed ever prominently forward by Abdel
+Kader, not only in his army, but in his whole administration, as the
+indispensable foundation and support of human exertion.
+
+The following allusion to himself, with which his military code closes,
+placed him before his officers and men as a model to be copied and
+emulated. Nor was there any exaggeration in its expressions.
+
+“Il Hadj Abdel Kader cares not for this world, and withdraws from it as
+much as his avocations will permit. He despises wealth and riches. He
+lives with the greatest plainness and sobriety. He is always simply
+clad. He rises in the middle of the night to recommend his own soul and
+the souls of his followers to God. His chief pleasure is in praying to
+God with fasting, that his sins may be forgiven.
+
+“He is incorruptible. He never takes anything out of the public funds
+for himself. All the presents which are brought to him he sends to the
+public treasury; for he serves the State, not himself. He neither eats,
+nor drinks, nor dresses, but as religion ordains. When he administers
+justice, he hears complaints with the greatest patience. A smile is
+always on his face for the encouragement of those who approach him. His
+decisions are conformable to the words of the sacred book. He hates the
+man who does not act uprightly; but honours him who strictly observes
+the precepts and practises the duties of religion.
+
+“From his boyhood he learned to mount the most fiery horse without a
+teacher. He never turns before an enemy; but awaits him firmly. In a
+retreat he fights like a common soldier, rallying his men by his words
+and example, and sharing in all their dangers. Thus, brave,
+disinterested, and pious, when he preaches, his words bring tears into
+all eyes, and melt the hardest hearts. All who hear him become good
+Mussulmans.
+
+“He explains the most difficult passages of the Koran and of the Hadeeth
+(Traditions) without referring to books or Ulemahs. The most learned
+Arabs and the greatest Talebs acknowledge him as their master and
+teacher. May God increase his nobleness of character, his wisdom, his
+learning, his understanding, his honour, glory, and success, a
+thousandfold!”
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XI.
+
+                               1838-1839.
+
+
+Abdel Kader now saw himself the founder of an empire. The strength and
+versatility of his genius had given cohesion and compactness to elements
+the most adverse and discordant. Hundreds of tribes bowed beneath his
+warlike sceptre. On all sides were seen the good results of order and
+good government. His external relations attested the magic of his power,
+and the splendour of his fame. Sovereigns and Viceroys, from the Emperor
+of Morocco to those of Egypt, Tunis, and Tripoli, vied with each other
+in tendering him marks of respect and admiration. The Ulemahs of Mecca
+and Alexandria watched with holy joy and expectation the career of one
+who seemed destined to revive the pristine glories of Islam.
+
+Burning to accomplish his secret mission in its fullest extent, Abdel
+Kader lost not an hour, by day or by night, in planning, arranging, and
+executing new schemes of progress and improvement. To make the Arabs of
+Algeria one people, to recall them to the strict observance of their
+religious duties, to inspire them with patriotism, to call forth all
+their dormant capabilities, whether for war, for commerce, for
+agriculture, or for mental improvement; and then to crown the whole with
+the impress of European civilisation—such was his mighty and
+comprehensive ideal.
+
+His amazing activity, vigour, and enterprise, had overcome difficulties
+apparently insuperable. His victorious sword, whether striking down the
+enemy from without, or his rivals from within, had proved the
+indomitable energy of a will which had but to conceive in order to
+accomplish. He was now to show that he could achieve victories without
+soldiers, and reap laurels unstained by blood.
+
+Warrior, orator, diplomatist, statesman, and legislator, the secret of
+his force lay in his intellectual grandeur. His letters, his speeches,
+his conversations, all bear the stamp of their own peculiar freshness
+and originality. His natural eloquence, enriched by study, matured by
+meditation, and enhanced by the singular charms and graces of his
+manner, operated like a spell.
+
+The provinces of Oran and Tittery, the plains of the Sahara, had been
+won by his military prowess. The grand Kabylia, that superb range of the
+Djurjura, extending towards the east, from Algiers to Borigia, was now
+to be the scene of a nobler triumph, one gained by the exhibition of
+moral power. The hardy Kabyles inhabiting those regions had defied every
+attempt to subjugate them. As independent republics, bound together by
+the most exalted spirit of freedom, they had preserved their usages,
+their customs, their laws, intact amidst the changing governments which
+had risen and fallen around them.
+
+It was clear that this nursery of soldiers, if once brought under his
+control, would give Abdel Kader a never-failing element of support, and
+if necessary, of aggression. Alone, he determined to effect by
+persuasion what others had failed to achieve by the force of arms. In
+September, 1839, he suddenly appeared at Borj Hamze, followed by only 50
+cavalry. His faithful Khalifa, Ben Salem, was by his side. To the
+question, what the Sultan proposed to do, the answer was, “To conquer
+the Djurjura!” The expedition set forth.
+
+The first slopes were rapidly passed. The appearance of the little
+cavalcade, as it plunged into the deepest ravines and gorges, or
+ascended almost perpendicular heights, spread surprise and astonishment
+amongst the mountaineers, gazing from their huts and precipices at the
+unwonted spectacle.
+
+Presently the rumour spread that Abdel Kader was there. The magic name
+resounded from rock to rock. From their valleys, their dells, their
+fastnesses, the Kabyles came streaming forth to hail their famous guest.
+Thousands at length gathered about his tent. The press of Sheiks and
+Marabouts blocked up the entrance. The people crowded round, some rudely
+intruding themselves, by lifting up the folds of the tent to gratify
+their curiosity. The escort pushed them aside with the words, “Back with
+you! you are going to smother our master.” Abdel Kader saw their
+disappointment. “Let them approach,” he mildly said, “let them approach;
+they are rough and wild like their mountains. Excuse them, you cannot
+change their natures in a day.”
+
+Abdel Kader now demanded to see the chiefs who commanded them. “We obey
+our _Ameens_ and our _Marabouts_,” was the reply. The _Ameens_ came
+forward to pay their respects. “Which of them represents the whole?” “We
+have no single chief,” responded the jealous republicans, “to whom we
+delegate our power. Our _Ameens_, chosen by the popular voice, express
+the general will.” Abdel Kader ordered a space to be cleared, and bade
+the throng sit down. A large circle was formed. He stood in the midst,
+with a string of beads in his hand.
+
+And now, in one of those stirring harangues which convinced the
+understanding, and melted the hearts of all who heard him, Abdel Kader
+adjured them to rally round his standard. He came not, he said,
+amongst them, like the Turks, with the emblems of brute force; he came
+amongst them as a simple pilgrim, relying on the cause he upheld, the
+cause of God and his Prophet. In a hundred glorious combats, glorious
+for Islamism, he had defeated the infidels, who strove to subdue their
+land. All the west obeyed his laws, and if he chose, it would be as easy
+for him to roll the west on the east, as to roll up the carpet on which
+he stood.
+
+“If you tell me that the east is stronger than the west,” he continued,
+“I reply, God sends me victory, on account of the purity of the motives
+which guide and direct me. You know, besides, what is written in the
+Koran, ‘Elephants are subdued by flies; lions have been killed by mice.’
+
+“Be assured, that if I had not firmly opposed the invasions of the
+French, if I had not shown them their weakness and impotency, they would
+have dashed over you before this, like a raging sea, and then you would
+have seen what neither times past nor times present has ever witnessed.
+They have left their own country merely to conquer and enslave ours. But
+I am the thorn that God has planted in their eyes, and if you will
+assist me I will drive them into the sea.
+
+“Otherwise they will subjugate and humiliate you. Be grateful to me,
+then, that I am their mortal enemy. Rouse yourselves, O Kabyles! Awake
+from your apathy. Believe me, I have at heart no other wish than that of
+the happiness, welfare, and prosperity of Mussulmans. All I exact from
+you this day is, obedience and concord, and the strict observance of our
+sacred law, that we may triumph over the infidel. And to support our
+armies, I only demand from you what is specified and ordained by God,
+the Master of the universe.
+
+“I wish not to change your customs, or alter your laws and usages; but
+the conducting of warlike operations demands a chief. I summon you to
+join the Holy War. Choose a chief. I recommend you Ben Salem. If you
+choose him, he will be like a compass for you in the hour of danger and
+trial. I call God to witness the truth and sincerity of my words. If
+they do not find their way to your hearts, you will yet repent one day;
+but that repentance will be too late. It is by reason and not by force
+that I seek to convince you. I pray God to direct and enlighten you.”
+
+A general shout arose: “Give us Ben Salem, give us Ben Salem. Take the
+_zekka_; take the _ashur_. Lead us against the infidels. We are your
+children, your soldiers, your slaves!”
+
+After installing Ben Salem as his Khalifa in the Djurjura, amidst much
+pomp and rejoicing, Abdel Kader continued his peaceful tour throughout
+that hospitable land. For thirty days his progress was one continued
+scene of rejoicing. Whenever it was known that he had halted, the
+simple-minded and enthusiastic mountaineers poured in with their
+_diffas_, or enormous plates of rice, sprinkled over with bits of meat:
+each one placing his _diffa_ before the Sultan’s tent, and insisting on
+his partaking—“Eat, it is my _diffa_.” To avoid giving offence, Abdel
+Kader was obliged to taste each plate successively.
+
+This short excursion had been sufficient to make him known and
+appreciated. The courtesy and affability of his manners, his well-known
+piety, his fame as an Ulemah, the venerated title of Hadj and Marabout,
+his brilliant renown as a warrior, his eloquence as a preacher, all
+combined to make his appeal irresistible. Not one of those fierce and
+indomitable mountaineers who saw and heard him could escape the
+influence of this extraordinary combination of advantages. Their poets
+made him the topic of their songs. Abdel Kader bade them adieu. With
+difficulty he escaped from their friendly and hospitable importunities;
+but at length he departed. The Djurjura had been conquered; and Abdel
+Kader could say, like Cæsar, “_Veni, vidi, vici._”
+
+Unwearied in his exertions to elevate, as well as to mould and direct,
+the national character of the Arabs, Abdel Kader had early established a
+system of public education amongst all the tribes. “My duty,” he
+afterwards said, “as sovereign and as Mussulman was to support and exalt
+science and religion. In the towns and throughout the tribes I opened
+schools, where children were taught their prayers, where the first and
+most important precepts of the Koran were inculcated, and where reading,
+writing, and arithmetic were fully taught.
+
+“Those who desired to push their education further were sent, free of
+expense, to the _zouias_ and mosques. There they found _tolbas_ ready to
+instruct them in history and theology. I appointed the _tolbas_ a salary
+according to their learning and deserts. So important did it appear in
+my eyes to give encouragement to learning, that more than once I have
+remitted sentence of death to a criminal from the mere fact of his being
+a _tolba_. It requires such a long time in our country to become well
+instructed, that I had not the courage to destroy in one day the fruit
+of years of laborious study.
+
+“The occupant of a cot may cut down a palm-tree which incommodes him;
+but how many years must he wait before he can taste the fruit of one
+that he plants!
+
+“In order to assist the studies of the _tolbas_, I took the greatest
+pains to prevent the destruction of books and manuscripts. I had the
+more reason for being so anxious in this respect, as with us it takes
+months to make a single copy. I therefore gave strict orders throughout
+the towns and tribes that the greatest care should be taken of all
+manuscripts, and that if any person were found destroying or defacing
+one, he should be severely punished.
+
+“Knowing my wishes on this point, my soldiers even were in the habit of
+carefully bringing in to me any manuscripts which fell into their hands
+in a _razzia_; and in order to stimulate their zeal in this respect, I
+always gave them a handsome reward. By degrees I made a large collection
+of such manuscripts, and had them safely deposited in the _zouias_ and
+mosques, and entrusted to the care of _tolbas_ in whom I had confidence.
+
+“In the same way as I provided for a system of public instruction, I
+established the administration of justice. The _kadis_ had a monthly
+salary, besides perquisites, for the performance of certain duties. I
+desired that the representatives of justice should be seen everywhere,
+and even that they should follow my army on its march. The Turks put to
+death by caprice and cruelty: I allowed no execution to take place
+except by virtue of a sentence given according to the law of God, of
+which I merely considered myself the executor.
+
+“Thus, wherever my columns went, they were accompanied by a _kadi_ and
+two assistants, one of whom (the chief of the police) carried the
+judgments into execution. He was not looked upon with aversion on that
+account, since it is not the executioner who kills, but the law. No
+doubt many have suffered by my order, but never without a legal
+sentence. All had committed crimes of some sort, or betrayed their
+religion. Now, according to our books, whoever aids the enemy with his
+goods, forfeits his goods; and whoever aids him with his arms, forfeits
+his head.
+
+“Thanks to the vigilance of my khalifas, of the agas and the kaids, and
+to the responsibility which I had attached to the tribes for all crimes
+or thefts committed on their territory, the roads had become perfectly
+secure. The vigilance of the police left nothing to be desired. In a
+word, amongst a people living under tents, and consequently difficult to
+manage and control, owing to the vast spaces over which they were
+dispersed, I had arrived at such a point that horse-stealing by night
+was no more known; and a woman could go about alone without fear of
+being insulted. When comments were made on this great result, and the
+reason asked, the Arabs replied, ‘The Sultan’s nets are there, we need
+not use our own.’
+
+“The public morals were equally stimulated by my reforms. Prostitution
+was severely repressed, and if God had willed it, I should have ended by
+restoring the Arabs to the path of the Koran, from which they had so
+widely deviated.
+
+“I had totally forbidden the use of gold and silver on the clothes of
+the men, for I abhorred the prodigality and luxury which enervates. I
+only tolerated such ornaments on weapons and on harness. Should we not
+cherish and adorn what so much contributes to our safety? The women were
+not included in this prohibition. The weaker sex requires compensation,
+when man has all the excitements he can desire—war, the chase, mental
+occupation, government, religion, science.
+
+“I was the first to set an example, by wearing clothes as simple as the
+meanest of my servants. If I did this, it was certainly not in the fear
+of being a mark for the balls of the enemy, but because I wished to be
+able to exact from the Arabs nothing but what I practised myself, and to
+show them that in the eyes of God it was better to buy arms, ammunition,
+and horses to make war, than to be covered with fine and expensive, but
+useless, ornaments.
+
+“Wine and gambling were severely interdicted. Tobacco was likewise
+prohibited. Not that the use of tobacco is forbidden by our religion,
+but my soldiers were poor, and I was anxious to keep them from a habit
+which has a tendency to increase, and which sometimes reaches such a
+pitch that men have been known to leave their families in misery, and to
+sell even their clothes, to gratify their passion for it. There was
+smoking still, but it was only occasionally, and even then in secret.
+This was already a great step gained. As to the Marabouts, the _tolbas_,
+and all who were attached to the government, they renounced the practice
+of smoking completely. This fact shows, at all events, in what a measure
+I had succeeded in being obeyed.
+
+“Such was already the extent and success of my organisation; and
+considering the short space of time which had as yet been allowed me,
+the reforms were not inconsiderable. They proved, at all events, what I
+should have ultimately effected. But the son of the French king came
+with an army from Constantine, and without giving me the slightest
+notice, traversed the territory which was incontestably mine by the
+Treaty of the Tafna, fought with the contingents of my Khalifa Ben
+Salem, at Ben-Hinny, and was thus the cause of the renewal of
+hostilities.”
+
+It was only by his own constant and unremitting personal supervision
+that Abdel Kader was enabled to carry forward and complete his extensive
+plans of reform and amelioration. Ever on the move, reviewing his
+troops, visiting his arsenals, examining his schools, administering
+justice, the young Sultan of the Arabs seemed to embody the principle of
+progress, and, like a beneficent genius, to scatter the blessings of
+knowledge, security, and contentment through the land.
+
+As soon as it was known that he had arrived in a district, the tribe all
+hastened to pay their visits of ceremony and respect, vying with each
+other in their profuse and generous hospitality. Each tribe was preceded
+by its Kaid on horseback. Then came the men, women, and children,
+walking two and two, bearing on their heads plates of the national
+dish—the _couscoussia_. The more wealthy Arabs formed a procession
+apart, carrying whole sheep, spitted and roasted on a stake.
+
+On reaching the Sultan’s tent, before which thirty negroes always stood
+in attendance, the plates were ranged along the ground, and the stakes
+stuck in a row, until the Sultan had signified his acceptance of the
+offering, when they at once became the perquisite of his train and
+escort. The sheiks then entered and kissed hands. Each brought the
+tribute of his tribe, or produced receipts for its payment, from the
+khalifa within whose jurisdiction his tribe resided. The commonalty were
+then admitted and did obeisance. If the day was a Friday, Abdel Kader
+came forth and preached.
+
+As long as the Sultan remained in any place, he was the sole dispenser
+of justice. The tent door was the “King’s gate.” There he heard
+complaints and redressed grievances. In criminal cases he decided
+without appeal. The Koran always lay open before him. His condemnations
+were motioned rather than delivered. If he elevated his hand, the
+prisoner was carried back to prison. If he held it out horizontally, he
+was led out to execution. If he pointed to the ground, he received the
+bastinado. Civil cases were referred to the Ulemahs. All decisions were
+made according to the Koran, to the text and spirit of which Abdel Kader
+bowed with undeviating reverence and submission. The Koran, in fact, was
+the guiding star of his public and private life.
+
+At last, Abdel Kadir had succeeded in establishing a machinery of
+government, which, by the harmonious relationship of its various parts,
+gave fair promise of success and durability. The simple hierarchy he had
+created was exactly conformable to the administrative wants and
+hereditary sentiments of his people. The public functionaries were few,
+their salaries moderate, their spheres of action well defined. If their
+power was absolute, and their sway over the public revenues extensive,
+the lynx-eyed vigilance of the Chief of the State precluded the
+possibility of tyranny, corruption, or abuse.
+
+With a just appreciation of the beneficial effects resulting from a due
+regard to the natural gradations of society, and with a thorough
+knowledge of the instinctive deference paid by the Arabs to blood and
+descent, he filled all his more important posts with men of noble birth.
+But those thus selected were, at the same time, men of good character
+and spotless reputation—examples to be followed, as well as rulers to be
+obeyed. A high and lofty sense of duty and self-respect thus came to
+pervade all ranks, from the apex to the basis of the social pyramid; and
+religion, virtue, honour, and morality, which had been blighted by the
+withering dominion of the Turks, revived.
+
+Abdel Kader had now performed his task. He had beaten the French. He had
+signed a glorious peace. His kingdom was a model of order and
+regularity. He trusted he might now be allowed to lay down the sceptre.
+He had come forward at his country’s call. He had vindicated its choice.
+He now sought permission to return to that seclusion and retirement,
+that life of study and devotion, which he had so reluctantly abandoned.
+With this view, he wrote to the Sultan of Morocco.
+
+After the usual titles due to sovereignty, the letter thus proceeded:—
+
+“The people of Algeria are now united. The standard of the Djehad is
+furled. The roads are secure and practicable. The usages of barbarism
+have been abandoned and obliterated. A girl can traverse the land alone,
+by night and by day, from east to west, without fearing obstruction. A
+man even meeting the murderer of his brother dares not retaliate, but
+appeals for justice to the authorities.
+
+“The book of Almighty God and the law of His Prophet are the only rules
+of adjudication. Provisions for the support of our army abound, as well
+as men to fill the ranks. All this must be attributed to the blessing of
+God, obtained through your prayers and approbation. Otherwise, we should
+have been the weakest of men for such achievements.
+
+“We did not come forward and assume the task of government from
+ambitious motives, or a desire for exaltation and power, or a love for
+the vanities of this world; but (and God knows the secrets of my heart)
+to fight the battles of the Lord, to prevent the fratricidal effusion of
+the blood of Moslems, to protect their properties, and to pacify the
+country, as zeal for the faith and patriotism require.
+
+“We have been ever on the alert, night and day, moving through the
+length and breadth of the land, in mountains and in plains; sometimes
+leading forth to battle, and at other times regulating affairs. We now
+beg your Highness to send one of your sons, grandsons, or servants, to
+assume the reins of government; for now there is neither trouble nor
+opposition from any quarter. I will be the first to serve under him, and
+to exert my poor abilities to the utmost, to counsel and advise him.
+
+“I trust to that consideration and indulgence which distinguishes you,
+to accept this my prayer to be relieved from the charge which is
+weighing on me.
+
+“I send your Highness some presents which have been sent me by the King
+of the French, from which I have only retained a pair of pistols. Also
+some of the best mules in Algeria. Their number, together with that of
+the other articles, are detailed in the account enclosed in this letter.
+
+“We beg you to accept our excuses, and hope for the expression of your
+pleasure and approbation. The presents will be delivered to you by my
+brother, whom I have deputed in my place, to seek the honour of an
+interview with your Highness, and to convey to you the dutiful regards
+and assurances of devotion of your son and servant,
+
+                                          “ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN.
+
+“_October_, 1838.
+
+“_Moharrem_, 1254.”
+
+
+The words written by Brougham on Washington might, indeed, have been
+admirably applied to Abdel Kader at this remarkable juncture of his
+life:—“A triumphant warrior, where the most sanguine had a right to
+despair; a successful ruler in all the difficulties of a course wholly
+untried; but a warrior whose sword only left its sheath when the first
+law of our nature commanded it to be drawn; and a ruler who, having
+tasted of supreme power, gently and unostentatiously desired that the
+cup might pass from him, nor would suffer more to wet his lips, than the
+most solemn and sacred duty to his country and his God required.”
+
+Sultan Abderahman, in a highly complimentary reply, refused even for a
+moment to hear of such self-renunciation on the part of one who had
+shown himself so eminently fitted to command, to organise, to renovate,
+and to save his country. He called on Abdel Kader, in the sacred name of
+Islamism, to stand forth, as ever, the champion of the Djehad, to
+complete his noble work, and to extend and accomplish his victorious
+career. Finally, he begged the young Sultan to send him his shirt, that
+he might hang it up in his private mosque as a saintly relic!
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XII.
+
+                                 1839.
+
+
+Scarcely had the “Treaty of the Tafna” been signed, when its defects and
+inconsistencies became apparent. It was impossible that a measure,
+hurried on by General Bugeaud to a hasty and immature conclusion, solely
+in order to enable him to send the troops under his command in the
+province of Oran, that they might take part in the siege of Constantine,
+could have had any other result.
+
+The General, defending his act in the French Chamber, during the session
+of 1838, thus expressed himself:—“Much has been said about the defects
+in the details of the treaty. I frankly avow there were some, but I
+think their importance has been exaggerated. There is only one of any
+consequence, and that is the expression, ‘as far as the Wady Kuddra, and
+_beyond_.’ This word may imply, as far as the province of Constantine.
+The expression is certainly vague; but it must be remembered that I was
+hard pushed for time. A steamer was waiting for my dispatch. It was
+absolutely necessary that I should conclude for war or for peace.”
+
+But it was precisely the doubt hanging over the proper interpretation of
+this word as it stood in Arabic, which kept open the door for endless
+disputes and misunderstandings, and ended by nullifying the treaty
+altogether. So hastily and inconsiderately, indeed, had it been drawn
+up, that a few days after the peace, when a French detachment had
+occasion to go from Arzew to Mostaganem, Abdel Kader, without opposing
+its march, sent to Bugeaud to remark that the French troops had violated
+his territory. The complaint was perfectly just, inasmuch as no mention
+had been made in the treaty of the right of passage.
+
+The evils arising from incorrect translations are notorious. In the
+diplomatic relations, between Abdel Kader and the French authorities,
+more than one had occurred, which, had they been discovered by the
+latter, might have entailed serious complications. But Abdel Kader was
+satisfied, in general, with what he had written in Arabic, and the
+French authorities with what they had written in French, and no more
+questions were asked.
+
+One instance may be given. The French had always placed at the head of
+their treaties, that Abdel Kader acknowledged the sovereignty of France.
+Abdel Kader never dreamed of making any such admission. It would have
+cost him his throne. What he had written, in Arabic, in the article he
+subscribed was, properly translated, “The Emir Abdel Kader acknowledges
+that there is a French Sultan, and that he is great.” The difference is
+wide.
+
+In a matter of limits of territory, moreover, such matters become of
+vital importance; and Abdel Kader was the last person to yield a point,
+when he felt he was borne out by justice and common sense in maintaining
+it.
+
+By the French version of the 2nd article of the “Treaty of the Tafna,”
+France is declared to possess, in the province of Algiers, “Algiers, the
+Sahel, the plain of the Metija, extending to the east as far as the Wady
+Kuddra, and _beyond_.” So the French chose to translate the Arabic word
+“_fauk_,” which really means, “above.” The Gordian knot which the French
+had made, and which they at last unscrupulously cut with the sword, was
+this: they had given themselves a limit, and yet wanted to have no
+limit. All their efforts to make Abdel Kader stultify himself, by
+subscribing to this solecism, were unavailing.
+
+Because the Arab Sultan maintained the absurdity of such a proceeding,
+and finally threw down the gauntlet of defiance rather than sacrifice
+the interests of his subjects and co-religionists, he was held up to
+execration as a rebel, as a breaker of treaties, as a man of wild and
+unprincipled ambition. He was treated as if he were contending with the
+lawful possessors of the land; not fighting, as was truly the case,
+against invaders, who had come to its shores denying all schemes of
+aggrandisement, and pledged to achieve the single object for which they
+came, and then withdraw.
+
+In presence of a treaty, which each party read and construed after its
+own fashion, political and commercial relations of any durable or
+confidential nature were clearly impossible. An attempt, at least, to
+come to some understanding was indispensable. The task of entering on a
+discussion with Abdel Kader on the subject devolved on Marshal Valée,
+who assumed the functions of Governor-General in Algiers, on November
+30th, 1837.
+
+The Marshal applied to the French Ministry for instructions. The reply
+thus simply and categorically announces the doctrine of appropriation.
+“By the words, ‘Wady Kuddra, and _beyond_,’ must be understood, all the
+country in the province of Algiers which is beyond the Wady Kuddra, up
+to the province of Constantine. The evidence of right, independent of
+political considerations, permits no concession on that point. Since we
+are masters of the province of Constantine, we cannot be without land
+communication with it.”
+
+The Marshal forwarded this view of the question to Abdel Kader, with his
+own comments, as follows:—“France has ceded to you all the province of
+Oran, less the reserved districts; all the ancient Beylik of Tittery,
+without exception; lastly, all that part of the province of Algiers
+situate to the west of the Chiffa. But you can have no pretension to any
+part of that province which lies to the east of that river. As for the
+Beylik of Constantine, about that there can be no misunderstanding, as
+it is not even spoken of in the treaty; and, moreover, it was placed
+under the rule of Achmet Bey when the treaty was signed.”
+
+Abdel Kader replied;—“As regards the Beylik of Constantine, there can be
+no difficulty: on that point we are agreed. But it is not so as regards
+the province of Algiers. Remember what happened at the time of the
+treaty. I wished to limit you to the plain of Algiers. General Bugeaud
+begged me to extend this limit, and I consented. I ceded the country as
+far as the Wady Kuddra towards the east, and as far as Blidah,
+inclusively, towards the south. The expression, ‘as far as the Wady
+Kuddra and above,’ must have a value. If not, why was it inserted in the
+treaty? If it signifies anything, it must mean that you are limited to
+the east, as you are to the west.
+
+“To justify your interpretation, you base your reasoning on the
+necessity there is for you to have a land communication between
+Constantine and Algiers. But you admit, in the same breath, that
+Constantine was not yours when the treaty was signed. Consequently, you
+clearly could not have reserved for yourself a tract of country in
+anticipation of an event which had not yet happened. Besides, is it
+anything extraordinary, that you should have done towards the east, what
+you have done towards the west?
+
+“Arzew and Mostaganem belong to you; yet you have not claimed or
+appropriated the tract of country which lies between those two towns. Do
+not let us fling ourselves into interpretations. Let us keep to the
+text; and let us frankly say, that all that portion of the province of
+Algiers which is not included between the Chiffa on the west, and Wady
+Kuddra on the east, and the first chain of mountains on the south,
+belongs to me.”
+
+“But,” answered the Marshal, “your interpretation is erroneous; for you
+forget the word _beyond_, which is also in the treaty. ‘As far as Wady
+Kuddra, and _beyond_’—which evidently meant, at the signing of the
+treaty, up to the very limits of the province of Algiers in that
+direction. But since that time we have taken Constantine. It means now,
+therefore, as far as the _frontiers of Tunis_.”
+
+Nowithstanding this pat of the lion’s paw, Abdel Kader retorted with the
+coolness of a logician.
+
+“The word _beyond_,” he wrote, “signifies something; but the Arab word
+_fauk_ translated as you translate it—_beyond_—means nothing at all. Let
+us make an experiment. Take any twenty Arabs you choose to select, and
+ask them the meaning of the word _fauk_. If they say that the natural
+interpretation of this word can, by any twisting of meaning, be made to
+signify ‘_beyond_,’ I will accept your interpretation. Take all the
+territory between Wady Kuddra and the province of Constantine. But if,
+on the other hand, they all decide that the word, what you translate
+‘_beyond_,’ really and strictly means _above_, accept the proposal I
+make you. This proposal is to give over to you, as a limit towards the
+east, the first crest of mountains which rises _above_ the Wady Kuddra.”
+
+The Marshal prudently declined the test. He might have declared war at
+once; but war with Abdel Kader was not so enticing as to be lightly
+undertaken. A better mode of getting over the difficulty suggested
+itself. Abdel Kader was ardently engaged in the task of organisation.
+Peace was indispensable to him. Attentions, flatteries, cajolements—or,
+these failing, petty annoyances and harassing vexations—might mollify or
+weary out his tenacious spirit. Both were tried; but both ineffectually.
+
+In the mean time Abdel Kader was firmly establishing himself in all the
+districts to the south of Tittery. With a boldness and rapidity of
+movement, which paralysed and subdued, he laid his iron hand on all the
+tribes on the borders of the province of Constantine, who were known or
+even suspected of intriguing with the French. He boldly occupied the
+disputed territory beyond the Wady Kuddra. More than that, he made it
+the scene of one of those acts of uncompromising severity, with which he
+visited all traitors to the faith.
+
+A colony of Kolouglis had lately settled there, trusting for their
+security to French protection. Their kaid, a Turk, had received French
+investiture. Abdel Kader summoned them to break off their treasonable
+connection. They refused. The French supplied them with arms and
+ammunition to resist. Abdel Kader swept down on them, crushed them, and
+cut off the Frenchified kaid’s head. All the tribes of the vast district
+of Sebaou instantly sent in their adhesion; and the Sultan appointed
+Achmet Ibn Salem to be his Khalifa over them.
+
+In the midst of these successes, Abdel Kader was threatened with a
+rival. Achmet Bey, when turned out of Constantine, had taken refuge in
+Mount Aures. He had commenced agitating amongst the tribes of the
+district of Zab. Biskara, its capital, was in the possession of his most
+implacable enemy, Farhat-ibn-Said. This chief applied to the French for
+assistance to defend the country against the Bey, promising that, in
+case of success, it should be made to submit to French domination. The
+French were lukewarm; and so he turned to Abdel Kader.
+
+Before entering the Zab country by force of arms, Abdel Kader considered
+it expedient to inform the French Governor at Constantine of his
+intention. As the friend and ally of France, he said, he was going to
+quell the disturbances which had arisen there, and save it from anarchy.
+Since agitation so near a French province might prove contagious, he
+considered it was in the interest of France that he undertook the
+expedition.
+
+Having sent this communication, Abdel Kader ordered Ibn Berkani, his
+Khalifa at Miliana, to collect his forces, and march on Biskara. Farhat
+received him with open arms. A combined attack was made on Achmet Bey,
+who was defeated, and hid himself in the Sahara. Farhat expected to be
+named the Sultan’s Khalifa over the Zab. To his disgust, the latter
+appointed one of his own chiefs, Ben Azouz, to that post. In revenge, he
+immediately began to correspond with the French. The correspondence was
+intercepted. Of his treason there could be no doubt. He was seized, and
+sent in chains to Tekedemt.
+
+Abdel Kader was now absolute sovereign of two-thirds of Algeria. The
+country which he had newly occupied, to the south-east of the province
+of Algeria, was one of the greatest utility to the French, since the
+garrison of Constantine drew from it its provisions, and they could not
+but feel that Abdel Kader could now at any moment stop the supply.
+
+Well aware that all those movements would awaken the jealousy, if not
+excite the alarm, of the French authorities in the regency, Abdel Kader
+made a step towards setting himself right with the French Government at
+home. After the treaty of the Tafna, Louis Philippe had sent him a
+magnificent present of costly arms. These gifts Abdel Kader had
+forwarded, as usual, to the Sultan of Morocco. The arms he prized but
+little; but they enabled him to pay a graceful tribute to one, on whose
+friendship and assistance he greatly relied.
+
+Miloud-ibn-Arasch and Durand, the Jew, were now sent to Paris to return
+the compliment. They took with them six splendid Arab horses, as a gift
+to the King of the French. The presentation of this complimentary peace-
+offering was the ostensible object of their mission. But their secret
+instructions were to soften down any acrimonious feeling which might
+exist on the part of the French Government towards their master—to
+explain away his recent conduct in such a manner as to leave a
+favourable impression—and to procure, if possible, a confirmation of his
+reading of the disputed article in the Treaty of the Tafna.
+
+Marshal Valée was fully cognisant of the whole of this proceeding. In
+fact, he had contrived to see Ibn Arasch for a short half-hour, on his
+way, at Algiers; and during this interview he had immediately began to
+argue about the true meaning of the article. Divining the real object of
+the ostentatious embassy, he had written to his Government, warning it
+against making any concessions which might interfere with his own course
+of negotiation. The Arab envoys, consequently, were graciously received;
+their horses were admired and praised. They themselves were brilliantly
+entertained. All the sights of Paris were shown them; and, in the French
+phrase of the time, they were the “lions” of the day. But when they
+broached the subject of the disputed article, their mouths were stopped
+with an evasion or a compliment.
+
+On their return to Algiers, after their fruitless mission, the envoys
+were summoned by the Marshal to an interview. He drew out of his pocket
+an amended version of the treaty, in which the ground contested was
+given over to the French, Abdel Kader receiving in exchange the
+districts of the Beni Djead, Hamza, and Oranougla; whilst, at the same
+time, the measures of corn and barley which by the treaty he had engaged
+to furnish, were remitted to him. Ibn Arasch declared he was not
+authorised to negotiate.
+
+The envoy was still further pressed, and he at last offered to affix his
+own seal to the document, to show that personally he acceded to the
+stipulation. But he positively refused to be answerable for his master’s
+approval. The perplexity of the affair was mitigated by a proposal on
+the part of the French to send a commission to the Sultan, and
+accordingly a commission started. On reaching Miliana, the Khalifa there
+refused to allow the French commissioners to proceed, without
+instructions from the Sultan. Ibn Arasch feigned illness, and escaped to
+Mascara.
+
+The Marshal was again thrown on his own resources. He propitiated the
+Emir by friendly offices. He sent him cannon and ammunition to assist
+him in the siege of Ain Maadi. These timely succours arrived there most
+opportunely; in fact they turned the scale of fortune, then trembling in
+the balance. But no concession was obtained. Abdel Kader felt himself in
+the right. He would not be put in the wrong.
+
+He returned to Tekedemt, January 10th, 1839. His envoy, trembling and
+doubtful as to the reception he should receive, presented himself, to
+give an account of his late proceedings. When Abdel Kader learnt that he
+had affixed his seal to a document which gave away all for which he had
+been so long and so persistently contending, he was almost beside
+himself with vexation and anger. “Never,” he exclaimed, “never will I
+ratify a convention which gives the French a land communication between
+Constantine and Algiers, and thus lose all the advantages I have gained
+by their oversight in circumscribing Algiers within a circle formed by
+the sea, the Chiffa, and the summits of the lesser Atlas, immediately
+above the Wady Kuddra.”
+
+The vacillating policy of the French Government had hitherto prevented
+it from taking any decisive step for the settlement of this interminable
+dispute. Now, it talked of confining the French occupation to Bona,
+Algiers, and Oran. Anon, it announced its intention of asserting its
+rights in the interior by force of arms. In the meantime Abdel Kader was
+hourly extending his dominion. Where was all this to end? The momentous
+question could no longer be avoided, and the French Government at last
+determined to act. Abdel Kader it could not reach. But his agents were
+within its grasp. It determined to operate on him through them.
+
+By the treaty of the Tafna, Abdel Kader was clearly entitled to nominate
+what agents he pleased, to reside near the French authorities in all
+places occupied by French garrisons. These agents were now, under
+various pretences, arbitrarily ignored, or assailed with studied
+affronts. Some inoffensive Moors who wanted to go and settle on Abdel
+Kader’s territory—a privilege which the treaty had secured to all
+Mussulmans—were rudely treated and violently detained within the French
+lines. A wheelwright whom Abdel Kader had long been in the habit of
+employing to make gun-carriages for him in Algiers, had his shop closed
+and was expelled the town.
+
+By the 7th Article, Abdel Kader was entitled to be furnished with
+whatever arms or ammunition, or materials for war, he might require, by
+the French authorities, at cost price. His agent at Algiers was
+expressly instructed to facilitate such a transaction. He had been
+further useful in procuring for his master French mechanics from Paris,
+to superintend his various internal improvements, in strict conformity
+with the 10th Article. The agent was now suddenly arrested, put into
+chains, and sent to France. Abdel Kader appealed to Marshal Valée
+against such monstrous infringements of his rights. He was told the
+Marshal had unlimited authority, and could do what he pleased.
+
+His consul at Algiers was a certain Italian, named Garavini, who was
+also consular agent for the United States of America. For nearly two
+years this agent had exercised this double function without molestation.
+He was now informed that the French Government refused to acknowledge
+him in the first capacity. Abdel Kader had just returned from Ain Maadi
+when he received this notification. He immediately penned the following
+letter to Marshal Valée:—
+
+“The Prince of the Faithful, who defends by arms the cause of God, Il
+Hadj Abdel Kader, son of Mehi-ed-deen (whom God preserve in his holy
+keeping), to the Governor of Algiers. Grace be to those who conform
+themselves to the will of God.
+
+“Our consul, Garavini, has informed us that he is no longer allowed to
+occupy himself with our affairs. You have written him a letter, of which
+he has sent me a copy. This letter we have read, and we have understood
+it. It prescribes to him to leave our service, and announces that you
+wish his place to be supplied by an Arab.
+
+“In the first place, we cannot find any Arab who could perform his
+functions in such a manner as to give satisfaction to our two nations,
+and promote their reciprocal interests. Garavini is a wise and discreet
+man, who only upholds what may be advantageous to both parties. In the
+next place, France has no right to force us to take a consul against our
+will and inclination. It is for us to judge what is best for us to do.
+If you wish to name an Arab as your consul with us, do so. We shall
+offer no objection. Why do you interfere with our choice of agents? Do
+we interfere with yours? Your way of acting violates the sacred
+principles of honour which ought to animate our respective modes of
+proceeding.
+
+“It would almost seem that you were desirous of seeing disorders once
+more prevail in the districts of Algiers and Oran. Individuals wishing
+to come and reside on our territory have not only been arbitrarily
+prevented, but have been fined, and thrown into prison. When our consul,
+Garavini, protested against such proceedings, you disdained to reply to
+him; you would have nothing to say to him. Such conduct denotes violence
+of character. It shows that you desire to provoke misunderstandings
+between us and the French Government. We have chosen a Christian out of
+your own town, and you reject him!
+
+“However, since usages are thus violated, since we are thwarted in what
+regards the good of our service, since there is evidently a design to
+lower us, we are ready for a rupture as soon as it may please you. All
+the world knows that we have chosen Garavini. We shall choose no other.
+Write to your ministry, therefore, that we mean to keep our consul
+Garavini. We expect an immediate answer.
+
+“We hope France will send a more moderate man to command in Algiers, a
+man who will let us enjoy the fruits of peace, a man who will do what is
+just and reasonable. We had hoped that your mode of acting would not
+have been like that of some of those erring men who have preceded you.
+But if you choose to tread in the steps of such persons, God, be
+assured, will make us victorious over our enemies, over those who
+unjustly seek to molest us. God has said, ‘Let injustice fall on the
+head of its author;’ He has also said, ‘It is better to be the oppressed
+than the oppressor.’ As for us, we will not deviate an inch from the
+treaty, if you will only abide by it.”
+
+All the satisfaction Abdel Kader could obtain in reply to this able and
+spirited remonstrance, was that the French Government understood the
+15th Article to mean that the consuls named by the Emir should be taken
+from amongst the Arabs, in the same way as the consuls named by the
+French Government were taken from amongst the French.
+
+The extensile qualities of the Treaty of the Tafna seemed, in the eyes
+of the French authorities, to be as illimitable as their own powers of
+constructive reasoning. But they were, as yet, as far from their object
+as ever. Abdel Kader would neither be cajoled nor bullied. All their
+devices had failed. Matters had come to a dead lock.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XIII.
+
+                                 1839.
+
+
+Marshal Valée, notwithstanding his repeated failures, determined to make
+one more effort to obtain Abdel Kader’s adhesion to the views taken by
+his Government on the disputed article. In the month of February, 1839,
+Commandant de Salles was sent on a mission to the head-quarters of the
+Sultan, who was then at Miliana. The object of his mission was to induce
+Abdel Kader to give his sanction and approval to the supplementary
+treaty, which had been signed by his enemy, Miloud-ibn-Arasch.
+
+Although a continuation of the peace was of vital importance to Abdel
+Kader, in order to enable him to complete his work of organisation, yet
+to yield the disputed territory was to him a moral and political
+impossibility.
+
+Politically it was impossible to him, because the territory in question,
+once ceded to the French, would have given them free means of
+communication between the provinces of Algiers and Constantine, and
+would thereby have rendered their possessions more compact, and
+proportionally augmented their aggresive power. Morally it was so also,
+because, not only was it repugnant to his own sense of honour to yield
+up tamely and submissively a point on which he felt himself to be in the
+right, but the mainstay of his hourly-increasing influence, gained by
+the almost magic success with which he had gradually circumscribed the
+French to within little more than gunshot of their own fortresses, would
+have been dangerously imperilled by any such concession.
+
+He had already repeatedly pacified many anxious inquirers, by the
+assurance that France would never dare to overstep the limits assigned
+to her in the plain of Algiers. It was on the strength of this assurance
+that the military and religious chiefs, convoked on the Habra, had
+consented to the peace. Without their consent, whatever might have been
+his own inclinations, he was precluded from listening to any
+modification of the treaty.
+
+Already, too, sinister reports and insinuations were circulated by the
+fanatical party that he was secretly paying tribute to the French; that
+the infidels had received his permission to settle on the sacred soil of
+Islam, and that the tolerance of such a profanation was little
+consistent with his lofty boast that he would, ere long, drive them all
+into the sea.
+
+Placed in this delicate position, Abdel Kader resolved on again
+convoking all the principal personages in his kingdom, and again calling
+on them to arbitrate on the differences existing between him and the
+French Government. The French commissioner was informed of this
+intention, and invited to attend the meeting, with full permission to
+enounce his propositions. He accepted the invitation, though with small
+hopes that he should be able to obtain from the Sultan’s council of war,
+concessions which the pressure of his Government had failed to obtain
+from the Sultan himself.
+
+The course of action which Abdel Kader thus adopted was, however, the
+only one which afforded any prospect for a peaceable adjustment of
+affairs. Marshal Valée had always ascribed Abdel Kader’s pertinacity to
+his individual pride and ambition. His feelings of irritation at the
+manner in which all means of accommodation had been rejected, were
+increased by the inward conviction that the obstacles raised were the
+consequence of his adversary’s personal caprice. Abdel Kader counted on
+his present proceeding to dispel the Marshal’s delusion, if not to
+induce him to adopt a change of conduct. The Marshal would discover that
+it was not the sentiments of an individual, but those of a whole people,
+with which he was contending.
+
+The council of war met. The French envoy spoke; but the decision was
+unanimous: “War, rather than give up the disputed territory.” M. de
+Salles returned to Algiers to state the result of his mission. Abdel
+Kader, on his part, without waiting for further circumvolutions of
+policy in that direction, appealed at once to a higher quarter, and
+addressed the following letter to the King of the French:—
+
+                       “Praise be to the One God!
+
+“The servant of God, Il Hadj Abdel Kader, ibn Mehi-ed-deen, Commander of
+the Faithful, to H.M. Louis Philippe, King of the French: may his reign
+be long, happy, and full of glory.
+
+
+“Since the foundation of Islamism, Mussulmans and Christians have been
+at war. For ages this was a sacred obligation on both sects; but the
+Christians, neglecting their religion and its precepts, have finished by
+looking on war merely as a means of worldly aggrandisement.
+
+“To the true Mussulman, on the contrary, war against the Christians is
+merely a religious obligation; how much more so when Christians come to
+invade Mussulman territory! According to this principle, I deviated from
+the rules laid down in our sacred books, when, two years ago, I made
+with you, King of the Christians, a treaty of peace; and more especially
+when I endeavoured to consolidate this peace by every means in my power.
+You know the duties imposed by the Koran on every Mussulman prince;
+therefore you ought to give me credit for having taken upon myself to
+relax, as regards you, the rigour of its precepts.
+
+“But you now demand a sacrifice from me which is too formally in
+contradiction with my religion to allow me to submit to it; and you are
+too just to impose it on me as a necessity. You call upon me to abandon
+tribes whose submission I have received; who came to me of themselves to
+pay me the imposts prescribed by the Koran, and who beseeched me, and
+still beseech me, to govern them. I have myself traversed their
+territory, _which, moreover, is beyond the limits of that which the
+treaty reserved to France_; and can you now wish, by another treaty,
+that I should order those tribes to submit to the yoke of the
+Christians?
+
+“No. If the French are my friends, they can never desire to bring about
+a state of things which would lower and degrade their ally in the eyes
+of his people. They would not for the sake of a few miserable tribes, to
+govern which, themselves, or leave to others to govern, can be of very
+little moment to them, place me in the terrible alternative either of
+breaking the law, or of renouncing a peace which is so desirable for us
+both.
+
+“But some may tell you that this consideration which forces me to
+reclaim those tribes will oblige me to reclaim the Arabs of Metija, of
+Oran, and of Constantine. No; for those have remained, and still remain,
+with the French of their own free will; and I have reserved to myself
+the right of giving an asylum to those amongst them who may become
+disgusted with Christian dominion. Whereas, the tribes in question, who
+are not nomad, but are attached to the soil, seek to be under my
+government, and are too numerous to allow of my giving them grounds in
+my territory equal to those they might wish to abandon.
+
+“Great King of the French! God has appointed each of us to govern some
+of his creatures. You are in a position far superior to mine, by the
+number, power, and riches of your subjects; but on both of us he has
+imposed the obligation of making our people happy. Examine, then, with
+me our positions; and you will acknowledge that on you alone depends the
+happiness of both people.
+
+“‘Sign,’ I am told by your agents; ‘or if you do not sign, your refusal
+will be war.’ Well, I will not sign; and yet I desire peace—nothing but
+peace.
+
+“In order that a treaty should be useful to your subjects, it is
+necessary that I should be feared and respected by mine; for the moment
+they see that, according to my good pleasure, I hand them over to the
+administration of the Christians, they will no longer have any
+confidence in me, and then it will be impossible for me to make them
+observe the least clause in the treaty.
+
+“How can you be compromised—you, Sultan of the French nation—by making
+concessions to a young Emir, whose power is now beginning to be
+strengthened and fortified under your shadow? Ought you not rather to
+protect me, to be indulgent towards me—me, who have re-established order
+amongst tribes which were slaying each other; who seek every day to
+raise in them a taste for the arts and for liberal professions? Help me,
+in the place of embarrassing me, and God will recompense you.
+
+“If the war breaks out again, there will be no more commerce, which
+might confer such inestimable advantages on the country, and no more
+security for the colonists. There will be increased expenses, and
+diminished productions. The blood of your soldiers will be uselessly
+shed; it will be a partisan war to the death. I have not the folly to
+suppose that I can openly make head against your troops; but I can
+harass them without ceasing. I shall lose ground, no doubt; but then I
+have on my side, knowledge of the country, the frugality and hardy
+temperament of my Arabs, and, more than all, the arm of God, who
+supports the oppressed.
+
+“If, on the contrary, you wish for peace, our two countries will be as
+one; the least of your subjects will enjoy the most perfect security
+amongst the tribes; the two peoples will intermix more and more every
+day; and you will have the glory of having introduced into our countries
+that civilisation of which the Christians are the apostles.
+
+“You will comprehend, I am sure, what I say; you will grant me what I
+ask; and what I ask is this,—that you do not see in a refusal to sign a
+new treaty, the desire of recommencing war, but rather the wish to
+consolidate the basis of the old one, and to confirm a sincere
+friendship between our nations.
+
+“May God inspire you with an answer worthy of your power, and the
+goodness of your heart.”
+
+
+The almost supplicating earnestness of this simple and straightforward
+letter fully evinces the anxiety entertained by Abdel Kader at the
+aspect which affairs between himself and the French were now assuming,
+and his sense of the vast importance to himself of a continuation of the
+peace. On the 31st May, 1839, the ministry of M. Molé was overthrown. A
+false report had reached Algiers, that he had been replaced by M.
+Thiers, with Marshal Gerard as Minister of War.
+
+Abdel Kader immediately wrote again to the king, and, at the same time,
+addressed two letters to the said ministers, with a power of language
+and a form of argument, which could only have emanated from a mind
+consoled and supported by the rectitude of its intention, and a firm and
+unshaken reliance in the justice of its cause.
+
+                          LETTER TO THE KING.
+
+“I have written you three letters, in which I gave you all my thoughts;
+not one of them has been honoured with an answer. They have been,
+doubtless, intercepted; for you are too kind and considerate not to have
+given me the satisfaction of knowing what were your true feelings and
+dispositions. May this, my last attempt, meet with better success! May
+this exposition of what is passing in Africa attract and fix your
+attention, and lead to a system which shall conduce to the welfare and
+happiness of the two populations whom God has confided to your care and
+solicitude!
+
+“The behaviour of your lieutenants is most unjust with regard to me; and
+I cannot suppose that it is known to you; I have too much confidence in
+your justice to suppose it. Endeavours are being made to induce you to
+regard me as your enemy. You are imposed on; if I were your enemy, I
+should already have found many causes for commencing hostilities.
+
+“Since my refusal to sign the new treaty, presented to me by M. de
+Salles on the part of Marshal Valée (my motives for which I have already
+explained to you in one of my former letters), there is no kind of
+injustice with which I have not been assailed by your representatives at
+Algiers. My soldiers have been arrested and thrown into prison without
+any legal cause; an order has been given not to allow the importation of
+any more iron, or brass, or lead, into my country; my agents in Algiers
+have been ill-treated by the authorities; my most important letters are
+answered by a simple receipt, cavalierly handed to the horseman who
+bears them; letters written to me from Algiers are intercepted.
+
+“After such treatment they tell you I am your enemy. They say that I
+want war at any price—I who desire, in every way, to follow the example
+of your industrious nation—I, who in spite of these tokens of hostility,
+facilitate the arrival of all the productions of my country into your
+markets—I who surround myself with Europeans, in order to give an
+impetus to industry, and who issue the most stringent orders that your
+merchants, and even your men of science, should not only be allowed to
+travel all over my country in perfect security, but be received and
+treated with hospitality.
+
+“But you may be told—‘The Emir has not yet fulfilled the first
+conditions imposed on him by the treaty of the Tafna.’ To this I reply,
+I have only postponed the execution of these clauses, because your
+representative, Bugeaud, broke, in the first place, his engagements.
+
+“Where are all the supplies of muskets, of powder, of lead, of sulphur,
+which were promised to me? Why do I still see at Oran the chiefs of the
+Douairs and Zmelas, whose removal to France was solemnly promised me?
+Does Bugeaud think I have not yet in my possession the particular
+treaty, the only one which interests me, written out entirely in his own
+hand, and signed with his seal? Could I believe for an instant that
+written promises from the representative of the King of the French could
+possibly be invalid?
+
+“I confess, I had so high an idea of the good faith of French
+Christians, that I was scandalised by their want of good faith, and that
+having had no direct communication with you, I refused to sign another
+treaty.
+
+“Yes, your military deputies only wish for new combats and fresh
+conquests. I am certain this system is not yours. You have not descended
+on the shores of Africa to exterminate its inhabitants, nor to drive
+them from the country. You wished to bring them the benefits of
+civilisation. You came not to make a nation of slaves, but rather to
+implant amidst the people that spirit of liberty which is the most
+powerful lever of your own nation, and with which it has dowried so many
+other countries.
+
+“Is it by the force of arms, is it by bad faith, that your agents will
+accomplish this end? Should the Arabs be at last convinced that you have
+come to attack their religion and conquer their country, their hatred
+will grow stronger than ever. They will break away from my control and
+authority, and our mutual prospects of civilisation will vanish away for
+ever.
+
+“I pray and entreat you then, in the name of God, who has created us
+both, to try and understand a little better this young Arab, whom the
+Most High has placed, despite himself, at the head of a simple and
+ignorant people, and who is falsely represented to you as being an
+ambitious chief. Make him acquainted with your intentions. Above all,
+communicate with him directly, and his conduct will prove to you that he
+has been badly appreciated.
+
+“May God grant you the light necessary to govern your people wisely.”
+
+
+The letter to M. Thiers was couched in the following terms:—
+
+“I congratulate France on your return to the ministry. The important
+labours which formerly signalised your presence in it, and the interest
+you always bear towards Algiers, make me salute you with joy.
+
+“Your countrymen who are about me have informed me that your post is
+charged more especially with watching and superintending the prosperity
+of France. A part of Africa is become French. In speaking to you of the
+dangers which menace the prosperity of the two countries, I perform a
+duty.
+
+“Counsellor of the King of the French, it is for your enlightenment, it
+is for your philanthropy, to strengthen and consolidate a peace which
+France and Algiers both demand.
+
+“The despotic caprices of the agents of an honoured Government, the
+failures in the execution of a treaty on the one side, leading to
+similar failures on the other; and the greedy and unprincipled ambitions
+of some, who aim at new spheres of riches and emoluments, threaten to
+mingle French and Arab blood, when, to my belief, the real truth is,
+that we all long for a peace which will bring to the Arabs the precious
+results of progress and civilisation, and to France the glory of having
+conferred them.
+
+“You are great for France—be so for Africa; and both countries will
+bless you. Your influence with a king, whose minister you are, and your
+counsels to a young Emir—entirely ignorant of the intricacies of
+European politics—are the materials with which you might erect a
+monument of glory for your own nation, and one of happiness and
+gratitude for mine.
+
+“May God assist and enlighten you, and maintain you in the high position
+of which you are so worthy!”
+
+The letter to Marshal Gerard was not less admirably conceived. It ran as
+follows:—
+
+“As soon as I was informed that the powerful King of the French had made
+you Minister of War, I had reason to be rejoiced. I felt that one who
+has nothing to add to his military glory, could never look to the French
+occupation in Africa as his sole field for military distinction. One
+who, like you, knows how to make war, must also know how to make peace,
+and to enjoy its fruits.
+
+“This peace is menaced; and wherefore? For the sake of a few leagues of
+ground, and a road impracticable from its natural difficulties. Has not
+France sufficient military glory—has it not space enough—that it should
+seek to acquire more at the expense of my influence over Arabs, whom I
+have bound myself to keep in submission?
+
+“My religion prevents me from violating my engagements. Why, then, seek,
+without any necessity, to lower me in the eyes of my co-religionists by
+calling on me to give over and place under French administration
+populations, to whom it is my duty, by the injunctions of our law, to
+preach the holy war? Let those who would compel me to do so try to
+understand my religion, and the obligations which it imposes upon me;
+and then, perhaps, they may be inclined to give me credit for the
+sacrifices I am making.
+
+“I approach you, then, to call your attention to the exactments of a
+local administration, which I refuse to believe can be guided in its
+acts by the wishes of France and of its chief. The French are too great
+to inspire the vexatious meannesses to which my subjects are constantly
+exposed in their relations with your representatives at Algiers. My
+dignity has obliged me to suspend these relations in part. When I saw
+that they were anxious enough to take the produce of our soil, but
+refused to supply the iron necessary for cultivating it, I said to them,
+‘Sell, but buy no more; God who has given us land has also placed in our
+mountains all the metals which our pretended civilisers refuse us.’
+
+“I pray to God, that your powerful influence with the king may be
+employed in seconding my pacific views; and that you and his noble son
+may, for the sake of self-information, come and visit this country, and
+meet with him whom you wrongly look upon as your enemy. Then your
+penetration and your genius, finding in me only sincerity and the desire
+of doing good, will assist me in moderating, either by civilisation or
+by arms, the fanaticism of populations who are only just beginning to
+appreciate the advantages of peace and industry.
+
+“May God make your armies victorious so long as they fight in the true
+cause.”
+
+These were noble words—words well worthy of being recorded. They were
+noble in the grandeur of their appeal—noble, as indicating the heroic
+struggle which rent and lacerated the breast of one conscious of his
+powers, burning with great designs, and painfully oscillating between a
+nervous anxiety to prolong a peace which would have enabled him to
+exhibit before the world a Mohammedan kingdom at its highest possible
+pitch of progress and development, and the lofty determination to
+abandon even this his heart’s desire, and to waive the brilliant future,
+if such objects could only be attained by a craven submission, however
+temporary, to the imperious dictates of an overbearing and unprincipled
+ambition.
+
+Such appeals, it may be well imagined, were entirely thrown away on a
+government which, finding itself entangled in a labyrinth, and thus
+fettered in the realisation of its secret views, was bent on adopting
+any measures likely to deliver it from its embarrassing position,
+however inconsistent they might be with good faith.
+
+Thus, whilst Abdel Kader was still fondly dreaming over the possible
+fulfilment of plans and projects, meant to harmonise and combine the
+requirements of Mohammedanism with the advantages of European
+intercourse, and the fruits of European civilisation, the subtle and
+powerful enemy with whom he was coping was already meditating a line of
+action which was destined, before long, to scatter those plans and
+projects to the winds.
+
+Both parties, it is true, wished for peace; but whereas the one sought
+for it as a temporary expedient, the other clung to it as a vital
+principle. Both were bound to their respective people by pledges and
+obligations, from which they could not recede. Abdel Kader had vowed to
+keep the French at his sword’s point, in every case of unjustifiable
+aggression. His attitude was clear and unequivocal; it embodied the
+strength and the simplicity of truth.
+
+The French Government, on the other hand, had officially and falsely
+declared to the Chambers, that the difficulties which had been raised
+about the Treaty of the Tafna had been explained to the advantage of
+France, and that the possession of the disputed territory was henceforth
+assured. The pen had easily traced such words, and the mouth had freely
+spoken them. But it required the sword to make good and establish this
+foregone conclusion.
+
+The state of doubt and uncertainty had now reached its utmost limit. The
+period of compliments, of evasions, of hollow friendship, of
+hypocritical alliance, had passed away. The co-existence of Abdel Kader
+and France on the soil of Algeria was henceforth impossible. Freed from
+the entanglements of diplomatic garniture, the gladiators again stood
+face to face, ready to descend into the arena.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XIV.
+
+                               1839-1840.
+
+
+Marshal Valée, while informing his Government of the inutility of all
+his efforts to induce Abdel Kader to yield to his remonstrances, made
+proposals of his own as to the best mode of action to be pursued.
+
+“The Government,” he suggested, “might either assume a defensive
+attitude, protesting against the Emir’s seizure of the disputed
+territory, and trusting to time and friendly offices to make him relax
+his hold; or it might attack him at once; or, again, it might place a
+force on the ground in question, intimating to the Emir that such a
+measure was not intended as a hostile demonstration, but merely as a
+joint occupation whilst the final arrangement was still pending.”
+
+The Government accepted the last proposition, with the modification,
+that, instead of the permanent occupation of Hamzé and its
+neighbourhood, a corps should merely traverse the country, and that if
+the Emir resented such a proceeding, explanations might be given.
+
+The Duke of Orleans had lately arrived at Algiers. In order to give the
+projected movement a greater degree of importance, it was arranged that
+he should superintend its execution. An expedition was to start from
+Milah, in the province of Constantine, penetrate the pass of the “Iron
+Gates,” cross the disputed territory, and thence onwards to Algiers. All
+the secrecy necessary for the accomplishment of a stratagem of war was
+used in order to give effect to the project.
+
+A demonstration was made towards Boujie. The Kabyles rushed to that
+quarter to defend their country against the threatened invasion. The
+Marshal and the Prince left Milah on the 18th October, 1839, and going
+in an opposite direction, reached Setif on the 21st. Here, also, the
+Kabyles presented themselves. Their sheiks demanded an interview.
+Admitted to an audience with the French generals, they were shown
+passports, bearing Abdel Kader’s seal, authorising the passage of French
+troops, and they were satisfied. These passports were an artifice—Abdel
+Kader’s seal had been forged!
+
+In place of entering the Kabyle mountains, the column which had been
+moved towards Boujie was countermarched, and joining the Marshal,
+advanced with him in the direction of the “Iron Gates.” The country was
+mountainous and intricate; but the Kabyle chiefs, serving as guides,
+were all delighted to facilitate the progress of the friends and allies
+of their Sultan. Under these auspicious circumstances the expedition,
+amounting to nearly 5,000 men, passed through the formidable defile of
+the “Iron Gates” without firing a shot. Had Abdel Kader been there with
+but 500 men, they would either never have entered it, or never emerged
+from it.
+
+The next day the French passed through the Kabyle tribe, Beni Munsoor,
+who stared at them as if they had dropped from the clouds. On the 31st
+the column reached Ben Ini. There, at last, the French and Kabyles
+exchanged shots. Ben Salem, the Emir’s Khalifa over that district,
+starting, as from a troubled dream, when informed of the approach of the
+French, had just had sufficient time to make a tardy and useless
+demonstration against the invaders. On the 1st of November the Prince
+and the Marshal made a triumphal entry into Algiers, and were greeted
+with loud acclamations. The festivities to celebrate the event lasted
+four whole days. A splendid entertainment was given on the esplanade of
+the Bab-el-Oued to the heroes of the “Iron Gates.” Enthusiastic toasts
+were drunk in their honour. A palm wreath, plucked and woven in the pass
+itself, was formally presented to the Prince. Algeria was supposed to be
+conquered. It was the triumph of Caligula over the cockle-shells of
+Britain.
+
+The idea on the part of the French Marshal had been that Abdel Kader
+might possibly write an angry letter or two on hearing of this
+unexpected irruption, that explanations would be given, and that there
+the matter would end. He was soon undeceived. The news of the passage of
+the “Iron Gates” reached Abdel Kader at Tekedemt. In eight-and-forty
+hours, by riding night and day, he was at Medea, and on the 4th of
+November he sent off the following dispatch to Marshal Valée:—
+
+“We were at peace, and the limits between your country and mine were
+clearly defined, when the King’s son set out with a _corps d’armée_ to
+go from Constantine to Algiers; and this was done without giving me the
+slightest intimation, without even writing me a line to explain away
+such a violation of territory. If you had informed me that he had an
+intention of visiting my country, I would either have accompanied him
+myself, or sent one of my Khalifas to do so. But, so far from that, you
+have proclaimed that all the country between Algiers and Constantine is
+no longer under my orders. The rupture comes from you. Nevertheless,
+that you may not accuse me of treachery, I give you warning that I am
+about to recommence the war. Prepare yourself, then; warn all your
+travellers, your garrisons, your stations; in a word, take all the
+precautions you deem necessary.”
+
+To his Khalifa Ben Salem, who had written for instructions how he was to
+act, he addressed words of consolation and encouragement in the
+following terms:—
+
+“The rupture comes from the Christians! Your enemy is before you. Gather
+up your banners, and prepare for battle. On all sides the signal for the
+holy war is given. You are the man of these parts. I place you there to
+bar their entrance.
+
+“Beware of being disconcerted. Tighten your waist-band, and be ready for
+everything. Rise to the height of events. Above all, learn patience. Let
+human vicissitudes find you impassible. They are trials—God sends them.
+Such trials are blended with the destiny of every good Mussulman who
+vows to die for his faith. Victory, please God, shall crown your
+perseverance. Salutation from Abdel Kader ibn Mehi-ed-deen.”
+
+In similar words of sterling import, his other Khalifas were summoned to
+instant action.
+
+“Treason has burst upon us from the infidel,” wrote Abdel Kader. “The
+proofs of his perfidy are glaring. He has traversed my territory without
+my leave. Gather up your burnous, tighten your waist-bands for battle—it
+is at hand. The public treasury is not rich; you yourselves have not
+sufficient money to hand to make war. Levy, therefore, as soon as you
+get the orders, an extraordinary impost. Be quick in action, and hasten
+to join me at Medea, where I am awaiting you.”
+
+Valée was loth to believe that all hopes of accommodation were
+irrecoverably gone, and still more loth to enter into a struggle for
+which he was wholly unprepared. The French colonists in the plain of
+Algiers were utterly defenceless. No precautions whatever had been taken
+for their safety and protection; as if Abdel Kader’s terrible daring,
+promptness, and activity were things hitherto unfelt and unknown. Even
+whilst the storm was hourly gathering on the mountains before his eyes,
+Valée contented himself with reporting home, and sending the Jew Durand
+on a mission to Medea, with a letter to Abdel Kader. This missive
+concluded with these words:—
+
+“Have a little patience; I expect orders from Paris; the affair will yet
+be satisfactorily arranged.”
+
+On the very day that Durand arrived at Medea, Nov. 14th, 1839, the
+Khalifas, assembled together according to orders, were holding a grand
+military council, presided over by the Sultan himself. Durand was
+introduced, and the Marshal’s letter was read aloud. An agitated
+discussion ensued, ending in an unanimous cry for war.
+
+“You are wrong,” said Durand. “France is a powerful country. You have
+had experience of her armies. You know how great is her strength, and
+how vast are her resources. You will be defeated.”
+
+“Then how long,” exclaimed Abdel Kader, “are we still to endure the
+insults of the Christians? They have given us proofs upon proofs of
+their bad faith.”
+
+“I assure you,” said Durand, “you do wrong to get angry about a trifle.
+The French have no wish to deceive you, or to quarrel with you; and if
+the King’s son has passed through your country, it was only on a journey
+of pleasure.”
+
+The council adjourned till the following day. Abdel Kader and Durand
+remained together alone.
+
+The latter now endeavoured to convince his sovereign of the risks and
+dangers he would incur by involving himself in another war. He
+expatiated on the rawness of the troops which Abdel Kader had at his
+command, his feeble resources, and the internal agitations which, more
+or less, at all times fettered his actions, as opposed to the military
+strength and discipline, and the unity and concentration of purpose,
+which enabled the French to triumph over every obstacle.
+
+“All that I know,” said Abdel Kader. “But my Khalifas loudly call for
+war. My people already look upon me as an infidel because I have not yet
+commenced it. I do not desire war. It is the French who are urging me
+into it.”
+
+The council met again; and again there was but one voice, and that was
+for war—the holy war.
+
+“Be it so,” said Abdel Kader, “since such is your desire. But I accede
+to your wishes on one condition alone. You are going to be exposed to
+fatigues, to hardships, to trials and reverses. You may despond, grow
+weary of the contest, repent. Swear to me, then, on the sacred book of
+God, that so long as I wave the standard of the Djehad, you will never
+desert me.”
+
+The chiefs and Khalifas all swore.
+
+On the 18th November, 1839, Abdel formally declared war against the
+French, in the following letter to Marshal Valée:—
+
+    “IL HADJ ABDEL KADER, PRINCE OF THE FAITHFUL, TO MARSHAL VALÉE.
+
+“Peace and happiness on those who follow the path of truth.
+
+“Your first and your last letters have reached us. We have read and
+understood them. I have already informed you that all the Arabs, from
+Ouelassa as far as Kef, are unanimous for the holy war. I have done all
+in my power to appease them, but in vain. There is not a voice for
+peace. All are preparing for war. I must conform to the general opinion,
+in obedience to our sacred law. I am acting loyally by you in thus
+informing you of what is passing. Send me back my consul who is in Oran,
+that he may return to his family. Be prepared. All the Mussulmans
+declare the holy war. Whatever may happen, you cannot accuse me of
+treachery. My heart is pure, and never will you find me acting contrary
+to justice.
+
+“Written this Monday evening, at Medea, 11 Ramadan, 1255 (18th Nov.,
+1839).
+
+“P.S.—When I wrote to the king, he replied that you had the direction of
+all affairs, both for peace and war. I choose war, as well as all the
+Mussulmans. Consider yourself hereby warned, and answer as you think
+proper. It is for you to speak, and no other.”
+
+
+The lightning had darted from the cloud, and the storm burst. Such was
+the admirable concert which pervaded the measures of Abdel Kader, that
+in a few hours, from the heights of Beni Sala he saw his Arabs and
+Kabyles spreading themselves all over the plains of Algiers. Fresh
+relays came pouring down from the mountains on every side. The defiles
+and gorges of the Atlas bristled with horse and foot. They came rolling
+onwards like a mighty avalanche bursting its barriers and rushing on the
+plains below.
+
+The Khalifas of Medea and Miliana at the head of their bands crossed the
+Cheliff. Ben Salem and his Kabyles closed in on the devoted French
+stations and colonies from the east; the Hadjouts came raging on from
+the west. The French cantonments, their agricultural establishments,
+their model farms, their scattered outposts, were presently overwhelmed
+and destroyed by the resistless and relentless cataclysm. The smoke of
+blazing villages darkened the air. In many, the colonists were
+massacred. Flying from others, the wretched fugitives were pursued to
+the very gates of Algiers.
+
+There the consternation surged and swelled like a tornado. The native
+population menaced insurrection. Rumours, magnified into imagined
+realities, filled every breast with alarm and terror. The wildest and
+most impossible suggestions were received and treated as facts. Abdel
+Kader was said to be advancing at the head of 30,000 men, preceded by
+5,000 pioneers to sap the walls. The houses in the suburbs were
+evacuated. The Marshal’s house, in the quarter of Mustapha Pacha, was
+dismantled. The barracks bearing the same name were loopholed. For weeks
+the terror and dismay went on increasing. Officers swept the horizon
+with their telescopes, and were obliged to remain helpless spectators of
+the scenes of devastation which spread before them. Provisions at length
+fell short. Famine aggravated the horrors of distress and fear.
+
+Now, like an eagle soaring from his eyrie, Abdel Kader hovered over the
+field of carnage. Hordes of Kabyles followed in his train. These hardy
+warriors, electrified by his appeals, had sworn to carry him
+triumphantly into the heart of Algiers. Relying on their prowess and
+devotion, he had solemnly fixed the day when his horse should drink at
+the waters of Bab-el-Oued. But before leading them against the
+redoubtable ramparts of the town itself, he resolved to essay their
+firmness and resolution against the fort Boudourou.
+
+The Kabyles rushed impetuously to the attack, but the cannon balls which
+mowed down their ranks filled them with unaccustomed terror. They
+vacillated, broke, retreated, and dispersed. Abdel Kader felt his prey
+had eluded his grasp, and, in a paroxysm of grief and indignation,
+exclaimed, as he looked at their broken ranks, “These, then, are the
+proud Kabyles! May their vows be ever confounded. May their prayers be
+never heard. May they live in misery and contempt. May they fall to that
+degree of wretchedness, that a miserable Jew may have them at his feet.”
+And he returned to his heights.
+
+Marshal Valée had at last awakened to a sense of his situation. Blidah
+and Bouffarick, at the foot of the Atlas, were hastily strengthened and
+reinforced. A few thousand troops were sent out in detachments to
+protect what remained of the ravaged colonial settlements. Urgent
+dispatches to the Home Government fully stated the extent of the recent
+disasters. The ministry ostentatiously declared their adoption of a firm
+and irrevocable policy. Algeria was announced to be “henceforth and for
+ever a French province.”
+
+Reinforcements rapidly arrived at Algiers, and the effective force of
+Marshal Valée was soon raised to 30,000 combatants. It was for him so to
+handle them as to make a permanent impression on his restless and
+indefatigable enemy. The system adopted by his predecessors—of sudden
+incursions, followed by as sudden retreats—was abandoned. His plan of
+attack comprised three elements of action. These were—to seize and
+destroy the strongholds which Abdel Kader had erected, and with them his
+arsenals, his magazines, his stores; to attack and annihilate his
+regulars, the mainstay of his power; and to occupy permanently the
+districts inhabited by the principal Arab tribes, and by thus showing
+them how wholly unable their Sultan was to defend or protect them, to
+destroy his influence and power.
+
+Abdel Kader was at this moment virtually the sovereign of all Algeria
+with the exception of the towns on the sea-coast. Oran and Tittery were
+his by treaty. The tribes stretching along the south of the province of
+Constantine acknowledged his sway. The Sahara, for the most part, obeyed
+his mandates. Nominally, 70,000 cavalry were at his beck; although in
+reality he could only depend on the Arab contingents who were directly
+controlled by his Khalifas, or who were within the sweep of his arm. His
+fighting force was about 30,000 cavalry, regular and irregular, and
+6,000 regular infantry.
+
+Concentrating his force at Blidah, at the foot of the lesser Atlas,
+Valée prepared to carry his first offensive movement into effect, by
+marching on Medea and Miliana. The river Chiffa was passed on the 27th
+April, 1840. The Sultan’s cavalry now appeared in considerable numbers.
+The right wing of the French army extended towards a lake, but without
+reaching it. Abdel Kader threw his squadrons into the intermediate
+space, passed on, and disappeared. The plain of Algiers thus became
+exposed to his blows; and for some time it was thought that he was
+advancing in that direction, sweeping everything before him. But the
+movement had only been a feint. The object of Abdel Kader was to force
+Valée to abandon his march along the valley of the Cheliff, and to
+oblige him to enter the mountains by the gorges of the Mouzaia. In this
+purpose he succeeded.
+
+He had been for months labouring night and day to render these
+formidable passes still more formidable by all the appliances of art. It
+was here, he declared, the French army should find its grave. Every
+available height and eminence had been cut into entrenchments. A redoubt
+with heavy batteries crowned the highest peak. In its immediate vicinity
+were placed his regular infantry—the battalions of Medea, Miliana,
+Mascara, Sebaou, and Tekedemt, officered by French deserters. Arabs and
+Kabyles swarmed in all directions, and, crouched in nooks and crevices,
+stood ready to open a dropping fire on the French column, as it wound
+its way with staid and heavy tread along the narrow causeway which hung
+midway on the mountain slopes.
+
+Valée divided his force into three columns. These were led by Duvivier,
+Lamoricière, and D’Hautpoul. To the astonishment of the Arabs, the
+French, leaving the road, came vaulting over the steeps. Ravines, woods,
+and rocks were all equally mastered by them. Slowly but surely they were
+reaching the entrenchments. Suddenly a thick mist enveloped the scene.
+The firing was incessant. It flashed and sparkled through the vapoury
+panoply like the coruscations of a phosphorescent sea. The mist rolled
+away. The combatants had met. They fought hand to hand. The Arabs and
+Kabyles clung with desperation to their hiding-places. The French
+clambered up, grasping at shrubs, branches, and sprigs. They appeared
+able to surmount every difficulty before them.
+
+There still remained the grand redoubt. Abdel Kader here made a last
+stand in person. His regulars and masses of the Kabyles rallied round
+him. The converging columns of the French came creeping on. The roll of
+drums and the clang of trumpets resounded on every side. The Arabs were
+bewildered by the ubiquity of their foes. Alike attacked in front and
+menaced in rear, they wavered, broke, and fled. Lamoricière and his
+Zouaves, Changarnier and the 2nd Light Infantry burst over the
+entrenchments. The tricolour waved on the highest summit of the Atlas.
+
+Abdel Kader retreated on Miliana. On arriving there he found the
+inhabitants in the very act of deserting the town. Placing himself in
+the gateway, he drew his sword, and threatened to cut down the first
+that crossed his path. The panic ceased. The people returned. Valée, in
+the meantime, entered Medea, and found it abandoned and half burnt.
+
+Abdel Kader had made his last attempt to fight the French on the
+principles of European warfare. It had failed. He never repeated the
+experiment. All his Khalifas and chiefs received orders never again to
+encounter the French in masses, but to confine themselves to harassing
+them, hanging on their flanks and rear, cutting off their
+communications, falling on their baggage and transports, and, by feigned
+retreats, by ambuscades, by sudden and unexpected sallies, perplexing,
+wearying, and bewildering them.
+
+Valée, after leaving a garrison in Medea, under Duvivier, prepared to
+return to the plains. He advanced on Miliana, which Abdel Kader at once
+evacuated. But when the French column took its departure and entered the
+mountain passes, Abdel Kader quickly resumed his ascendancy, and by
+unceasing attacks, day and night, compelled it to emerge from its
+perilous position at the sacrifice of whole companies annihilated,
+baggage captured, and wounded abandoned.
+
+It now became necessary for the French to re-victual their garrisons in
+Medea and Miliana. This dangerous task was entrusted to Changarnier, who
+accomplished it with consummate skill and daring, whilst his troops were
+running a gauntlet of fire. Closely blockaded by Abdel Kader, these
+garrisons had led a life of privation and suffering difficult to
+portray. The Arabs and Kabyles occupied all the surrounding country.
+They attacked the French foraging parties. The most daring and vigorous
+sorties, though scaring them for the moment, made no permanent
+impression on their vulture-like tenacity. In the month of October,
+1840, the garrison of Miliana had nearly disappeared under the
+complicated effects of famine, fever, and nostalgia. Out of 1,500 men,
+750 were dead, 500 were in the hospital, and the remainder, poor
+crawling skeletons, could hardly hold their muskets.
+
+Not only in the mountains of Tittery did Abdel Kader hold the French in
+his iron grasp. From the frontiers of Morocco to those of Tunis he kept
+them constantly at bay, counteracting or nullifying their operations by
+his almost superhuman efforts. Ever in the saddle, sudden and mysterious
+in his movements, to-day engaged with the French, on the morrow a
+hundred miles off, rallying and inspiriting a flagging tribe of Arabs—he
+seemed, with his constitution of iron, to dispense with rest or repose;
+as though his body had become in a manner etherealised by the fiery soul
+within.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XV.
+
+                               1841-1842.
+
+
+With the year 1841 commenced the real and decisive struggle. The French,
+with too exclusive reliance on their superiority in discipline and
+resources, calculated that it would terminate in a few months. Owing to
+the unimagined means of resistance evoked and wielded by the great chief
+who defied them, it was destined yet to last, with alternate
+vicissitudes of success, for six years.
+
+On the 22nd of February, 1841, General Bugeaud assumed the functions of
+Governor-General of Algeria. Abdel Kader regarded the appointment as a
+hopeful presage. He would have little difficulty, he conceived, in
+coming to a good understanding with one who had already sanctioned and
+confirmed his claims to regal power. One of his most famous
+predecessors, Ouchba-ibn-Naifé, lieutenant of the Caliph Mouaiah,
+towards the close of the seventh century, after having led his
+victorious Arabs from Alexandria to Morocco, had signed a treaty with
+the Christian Emperor of Constantinople, by which he was to be paramount
+ruler in the interior, while the latter was to be content with holding
+the towns along the coast.
+
+Such was the arrangement which Abdel Kader had always fondly hoped to
+see established between himself and the French Government. He thought it
+not impossible that the new Governor-General might be induced to support
+and promote such a solution of existing difficulties. Bugeaud’s first
+proclamation quickly undeceived him. The General therein declared that
+his opinions on Algerian affairs were completely changed. So far from
+the French occupation being limited, it was to be extended. Every rival
+power was to be crushed.
+
+In truth, the French Government had at length taken the measure of their
+formidable adversary, and had placed 85,000 men at Bugeaud’s disposal.
+With such an imposing force it was anticipated that Abdel Kader would
+soon be beaten and driven out of the field.
+
+But the great difficulty was not so much to defeat Abdel Kader as to
+overtake him. The French were stronger; but he was lighter. The former
+moved along beaten routes in long columns, encumbered with artillery,
+ambulances, and baggage. The latter seeing his enemy’s point of attack,
+evaded him for the moment, and then fell on him when at fault, entangled
+in ravines and lost amidst precipices. With the Romans, the French might
+truly say, “Nostros asperitas et insolentiæ loci retinebant.”
+
+Bugeaud altered the tactics of his predecessors. Movable columns winding
+in various directions obliged Abdel Kader to disseminate his forces, and
+kept him dubious and uncertain. Heavy baggage and heavy ordnance were
+abandoned. Recesses hitherto unapproachable, became accessible. Even the
+commissariat was dispensed with.
+
+The Arabs had one immense advantage over the French. Wherever they went
+they found provisions. The _silos_ scattered over the land afforded them
+a never-failing resource. The French had to carry their provisions with
+them. The difference was serious and important. Lamoricière solved the
+problem. “The Arabs carry no provisions,” said that General, “why should
+we?” And he forthwith took the field for a month.
+
+His men carried a few portable hand-mills. On reaching a given tract of
+country, they spread themselves out in skirmishing order, sometimes a
+league in extent. They probed the ground before them, as they advanced,
+with their swords and bayonets. The stones concealing the underground
+granaries were struck. They had been but loosely and scantily covered
+with earth. The _silos_ were discovered. Razzias procured sheep. The
+hand-mills converted corn into flour; and thus the French troops found
+themselves provisioned on the very spot where they stood.
+
+Bugeaud’s military operations were based on the double principle of
+conservation and aggression. The main objects of his tactics consisted
+in re-victualling his garrisons, which barely held their own amidst the
+ever-active foes surrounding them on every side; in keeping in
+subjection the Arab tribes who had already surrendered to his arms, by
+giving them an efficient organisation under French officers,—in
+overawing others by inexorable razzias and ruthless burning of their
+crops; and, lastly, in striking, without pause or cessation, at Abdel
+Kader’s power in all its vital parts, by occupying his strong positions,
+destroying his arsenals, rasing his fortresses, with the hope of forcing
+him back, by continual pressure, into the wilds of the Sahara.
+
+The campaign of 1841 opened with a second re-victualling of Medea and
+Miliana. The losses of the French, before they effected that object,
+were immense. Abdel Kader disputed every inch of the ground. Bugeaud had
+gone to the province of Oran. From Mostaganem he led in person an
+expedition against Tekedemt. On reaching it, May 25th, he found it
+deserted and partly in flames. Boghar, Saida, and Taza, were
+successively destroyed.
+
+Abdel Kader, faithful to his lately-adopted system, had determined not
+to waste his forces in vain attempts to defend his fortresses. He
+abandoned them all. His regular army was more usefully and successfully
+employed in harassing the French on their lines of march, or in keeping
+wavering tribes to their allegiance. In the new style of warfare which
+he was now called upon to confront, walled towns were an encumbrance to
+him—impediments, in fact, of which he felt glad to be relieved.
+
+The following characteristic letter, addressed by him about this time to
+General Bugeaud, admirably portrays the buoyancy of spirit which
+animated him at a period when everything seemed to indicate his hopeless
+and irretrievable ruin:—
+
+“What is that craving thus urging France, which calls itself a strong
+and peaceful nation, to come and make war against us? Has she not
+sufficient territory? What harm can all she has taken do us, compared
+with what still remains to us? She will advance, we will retire; but
+she, in her turn, will be obliged to retire; and then we shall return.
+
+“And you, the Governor-General, what injury can you do us? In battle you
+lose as many men as we do. Your army is yearly decimated by disease.
+What compensation do you think you can offer your king and your country
+for your enormous losses in men and money? A tract of ground, and the
+stones of Mascara!
+
+“You burn, you ravage our crops, you pillage our _silos_. But what
+signifies to us the loss of the plain of Eghrees, of which you have not
+ravaged even a twentieth part, when we possess so many others? The
+ground you take from us is but as a drop of water taken from the sea. We
+will fight you just when we think proper; and you know we are not
+cowards.
+
+“As to our opposing the forces you drag after you, it would be folly.
+But we will harass them; we will wear them out; we will cut them up in
+detail; the climate will do the rest. Does the wave cease to rise and
+swell when a bird skims it? That is the image of your passage in
+Africa.”
+
+The French had, indeed, already reason to shrink from the task before
+them. What with the losses entailed upon them by marches and counter-
+marches, by incessant fighting, by blasting heats, their army had nearly
+vanished away. Bugeaud, at the close of the year 1841, had to report,
+that of 60,000 men, he had only 4,000 fit for duty.
+
+The French Government again sought relief in projects of peace. If the
+Emir would raise the blockade of the French garrisons, and nominally lay
+down his arms (it being understood, at the same time, that 30,000 stand
+should be secretly paid for), all his former rights would be confirmed,
+it said, all the territory taken from him restored. Abdel Kader laughed
+at the proposition. “Let the French keep the towns,” he replied. “Will
+the towns give them food? So long as I hold the country, and can attack
+and intercept their convoys, my position will still be superior to
+theirs.”
+
+The very fact, that a proposal for peace had been first broached by the
+French themselves, confirmed Abdel Kader in his resolution to try the
+extremities of war. He had already twice reduced them to terms, before
+his fortresses and arsenals existed. The elements he then wielded still
+remained to him, even after the loss of these strongholds, and, in
+truth, were even more effective than before. The Arab tribes had been
+organised; they moved by a common impulse; they expanded and contracted
+by word of command; when least dreaded, they attacked; when pursued,
+they disappeared. Such was henceforth to be the formidable but ever
+fluctuating principle of Abdel Kader’s operations.
+
+To break the links of this well-compacted chain, and destroy the
+influence which held it together, by establishing permanent centres of
+action in the very heart of the Arab confederation, and by rapidly
+consecutive expeditions radiating from these centres, to give his troops
+the ubiquity of the Arabs, became Bugeaud’s main object.
+
+It was determined that the province of Oran, as the chief seat of Abdel
+Kader’s power, should henceforward be regarded as the principal scene of
+operations. Lamoricière occupied Mascara; Bedeau held Tlemsen;
+Changarnier watched the western frontier of the plain of Algiers;
+D’Aumale menaced Tittery. All these were men of promise, able, bold,
+enterprising, successful; but destined, at a later period, to experience
+the fickleness of fortune.
+
+Three columns moving from Oran and Mostaganem were despatched to act
+upon the tribes occupying the vast extent of territory between the sea
+and the Atlas, as well as those extending towards the Sahara. The first,
+headed by Bugeaud in person, advanced along the valley of the Cheliff,
+and then made its junction with the second column under Changarnier,
+which had started from Blidah. The third column, commanded by
+Lamoricière, aimed at pushing Abdel Kader back to the south, with the
+view of isolating him from the tribes attacked by Bugeaud and
+Changarnier.
+
+Now commenced those wonderful episodes, thrilling in their effect,
+sublime in their grandeur, as marvels of daring and genius, by which
+Abdel Kader stamped this glorious struggle in which he was engaged with
+the impress of his own extraordinary individuality.
+
+Lamoricière, zealously acting up to the instructions given him, to
+pursue and overtake the Sultan, was always fancying himself on the
+traces of his object. Suddenly he heard that Abdel Kader was before
+Mascara. When he had contrived to arrive by forced marches at that
+place, he was told that Abdel Kader had passed by the rear of his
+column, and was making a razzia on the Borgia tribes.
+
+Again came the pursuit, and again Abdel Kader, by a bold and rapid
+manœuvre, leaving his bewildered foes behind him, dashed across the
+Cheliff, placed himself between Bugeaud and the sea, recovered his
+ascendancy over the tribes who had deserted him in that direction, made
+another sweeping razzia to the south of Miliana, and then, rushing back
+to the Sahara, showed himself there in full force, just as the French
+had returned, in despair of finding him, to their cantonments.
+
+By ever-recurring evolutions of this nature, slipping between the
+enemy’s columns, flitting in their front, hovering on their flank,
+falling on their rear, never at fault, never discouraged, sometimes in
+the mountains, sometimes in the plains, disconcerting and rendering
+abortive the most scientific military combinations, Abdel Kader amply
+compensated for the disparity of his means, and counterbalanced the
+manifold disadvantages under which he laboured.
+
+Leaving to his Khalifas in Oran the duty of carrying on the desultory
+kind of warfare which he had so rigidly prescribed, Abdel Kader now
+repaired to the Traara Mountains on the frontiers of Morocco. The
+military skill and diplomatic aptitude of Bedeau had imposed obedience
+on many of the frontier tribes. Abdel Kader saw his communications with
+Morocco menaced, and it was from Morocco that he drew, for the most
+part, his arms, his clothing, his ammunition, not, as has been
+erroneously stated, by splendid and gratuitous grants from Sultan
+Abderahman, but by the ordinary course of commercial transactions.
+
+The Kabyles of Nedrouma, once his most devoted partisans, had, amongst
+others, submitted to the French general. The sight of Abdel Kader
+amongst them at once rekindled all their former loyalty and enthusiasm.
+They prayed for forgiveness; they asked to be allowed to wipe out their
+shame on the field of glory. The Beni Snassen, and other frontier
+tribes, followed their example, and rallied again around his standard.
+These, in addition to his own regulars, gave him about 3,000 cavalry and
+5,000 infantry,—a force sufficient to confront the enemy.
+
+During the months of March and April, 1842, the hills and valleys of the
+Traara and Nedrouma Mountains, the banks of the Tafna and the Sickak,
+became the scenes of constant encounters between him and General Bedeau.
+The fate of the campaign still hung doubtfully in the balance, when
+Abdel Kader was summoned to the environs of Mascara. Despite the
+precautions of his brother-in-law, Mustapha-ibn-Tamy, of Il Berkani, and
+of Sidi Embarak, his most illustrious chiefs, Lamoricière was gaining
+ground. Several tribes had gone over; a large portion even of the
+Hashems, his own tribe, had been carried away by the contagious example.
+Lamoricière, imagining Abdel Kader to be sufficiently occupied by
+Bedeau, had extended his excursions towards the Sahara. Abdel Kader
+seized the opportune occasion to re-assert and enforce his power amongst
+the tribes who had deserted him around Mascara. But, with due
+discrimination, he drew a line between wilful treason and unavoidable
+secession. Wherever there were proofs of collusion with the French, of
+treasonable correspondence, of active participation, his punishments
+were severe and unsparing. Terrible, indeed, were, at times, the
+examples he made of tribes who, by their premeditated alliance with the
+infidel, had justly drawn down upon themselves the fearful punishment
+awarded by the Koran upon traitors to their religion and their God.
+
+Lamoricière hurried back in all haste on hearing of the Sultan’s re-
+appearance on his own field of operations. But he had to re-conquer all
+the territory he had lately gained. To his surprise, tribes, which had
+but recently joined him, now stood coalesced against him. Fighting his
+way gallantly through all obstacles, he eagerly sought to measure his
+sword with the moving genius of this unexpected revival. He heard that
+Abdel Kader was in force at Tekedemt, and on Tekedemt he forthwith
+marched.
+
+He arrived there, indeed, but just in time to learn that Abdel Kader had
+fallen on Changarnier in the direction of Miliana. That general,
+counting on the absence of his redoubtable foe, was there engaged in the
+comparatively easy task of subduing some refractory tribes. One day he
+found himself enveloped with an overwhelming force of Arabs and Kabyles,
+horse and foot, regulars and irregulars, led on by Abdel Kader in
+person, and rushing furiously to the combat.
+
+For two days and nights the battle raged incessantly. The combatants
+engaged in deadly strife, hand to hand and foot to foot with pistols,
+swords, yataghans, or bayonets. Suddenly the combat ceased. Abdel Kader
+drew off his army and disappeared. The French had suffered too severely
+and were too exhausted to follow him up. Two days afterwards news
+reached them to the effect that Abdel Kader had dashed into the Metija,
+was ravaging the plains, and carrying terror to the very gates of
+Algiers.
+
+Bearing away to his right, after performing this exploit, Abdel Kader
+ascended the Atlas, penetrated to the Ouarensis, beyond Tittery, and
+reached the Sahara. Everywhere he occupied himself in arousing
+populations, inspiriting tribes, and organising contingents. After
+sweeping over a space of some three hundred leagues, he returned, with
+recruited forces and increased energy, to press upon the garrison of
+Mascara, under Lamoricière, with all the rigours of a winter blockade.
+
+Notwithstanding all these incredible and in some measure successful
+efforts, which were now, more than ever, necessary to sustain him in his
+arduous and double task of thwarting the designs of his formidable
+enemies from without, and of curbing the fast-spreading spirit of
+defection within, Abdel Kader began to feel that he was struggling with
+adverse fortune. All his fixed establishments had been invaded and
+destroyed. The ketna, his ancestral abode, had been ravaged and laid
+waste. The members of his own family were outcasts. More than all, the
+families of his most faithful adherents were constantly exposed, despite
+all his vigilance, to rude visits from detested strangers, clothed in
+uncouth garb, the soldiers of the infidel, who violated the sanctity of
+the harem with heartless mockery and vindictive malice.
+
+Feelings of religion and humanity urgently compelled him to take
+measures to meet the exigencies of such a painful and trying emergency.
+He determined to remove altogether from the scene of war those whom it
+was impossible for him to desert, and whom in the hour of need he might
+be unable to rescue. He formed his _Smala_.
+
+This new and singular organisation was simply an agglomeration of
+private hearths. To the _Smala_ as to a common asylum and place of
+security, the Arab tribes sent their treasures, their herds, their
+women, their children, their aged and their sick. It became an immense
+moving capital, amounting to more than 20,000 souls. It followed the
+Sultan’s movements, advancing to the more cultivated districts, or
+retreating to the Sahara, according to the fluctuations of his fortunes.
+
+When in the Sahara, the numerous tents of the _Smala_ were lost in the
+distant horizon. When in the Tell, they filled up the valley, and
+covered the slopes of the mountains. It was arranged with military
+regularity. The _deiras_, or households, with their tents varying in
+number according to the respective strength of each, were distributed
+into four large encampments. Each _deira_ knew its place. Each chief had
+his station marked and his functions appointed, according to his
+importance or the confidence he inspired.
+
+Abdel Kader spared no pains to encourage and popularise a system of
+emigration, which daily increased from the strongest of human impulses,
+and thus gradually and imperceptibly bound the Arab tribes to him by the
+strongest of human ties. Four tribes were set apart to watch, protect,
+and guide the _Smala_ in its wanderings. A body of regulars kept guard
+over it. Jews were expressly commissioned to advance sums of money to
+the needy.
+
+Ultimately, indeed, the _Smala_ became a powerful check on the
+disaffection of the tribes. For when the French, alluring them with fair
+promises, said to them, “Come over to us, we will protect you,” an
+invisible voice whispered in their ears, “I have your women, your
+children, your flocks, beware!” Thus, an establishment, which was at
+first constituted by Abdel Kader as a measure of domestic arrangement,
+became in his hands a vast and widely extended political engine.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XVI.
+
+                               1841-1842.
+
+
+It was the month of March, 1841; the night was cold, dark, and
+tempestuous. More than a thousand fires glimmered in house, and tent,
+and bivouac. Men were anxiously discussing the past stages and future
+prospects of the war. Generals were conning their maps; soldiers were
+drinking the old accustomed toasts to love and glory; priests were
+reading their breviaries; the Bishop of Algiers had just finished
+midnight mass. Suddenly a young woman, holding a little girl by the
+hand, rushed into his apartment, threw herself at his feet, and in
+accents of wild despair exclaimed:—“My husband; the father of my child!”
+Her husband had disappeared in the frightful hurricane of war which had
+devastated the plain of Algiers. But he was safe; he was with Abdel
+Kader.
+
+The good bishop had long deplored, though unavailingly, the melancholy
+fate of French prisoners in the hands of the Arabs. He had often
+suggested measures for their relief, but French national pride and
+dignity had hitherto opposed an impassable barrier to his benevolent
+designs. Now, however, touched and excited by the scene before him, he
+determined to break the restraints imposed on him, and, confident of
+finding a response in the breast of the magnanimous chief to whom he was
+about to appeal, he wrote to Abdel Kader.
+
+“You do not know me,” he said, “but my profession is, to serve God, and
+in Him to love all men, his children and my brethren. If I was able to
+mount on horseback I should dread neither the blackness of the night nor
+the roaring of the tempest. I would present myself at the door of your
+tent, and would cry out in a voice which, if my idea of you deceives me
+not, you would be unable to resist, ‘Restore to me my unfortunate
+brother, fallen into your warlike hands.’ But I cannot come myself.
+
+“Let me then send you one of my followers, and let the letter which he
+will present to you, and which I have written in haste, supply the place
+of that verbal appeal which God would have blessed, for it would have
+proceeded from the bottom of my heart.
+
+“I have neither gold nor silver to offer you. Your only recompense will
+be the sincere prayers and the deep-felt gratitude of the family on
+whose behalf I write. ‘Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain
+mercy.’”
+
+Abdel Kader at once replied in the following terms:—“I have received
+your letter and comprehended it. It has not surprised me, after all I
+had heard of your sacred character. Nevertheless, permit me to observe
+that in the double title you assume of servant of God and friend of men,
+your brethren, you ought to have demanded from me not merely the liberty
+of one, but of all the Christians who have been made prisoners of war
+since the resumption of hostilities.
+
+“Nay more. Would you not be, in a twofold manner, worthy of the mission
+of which you speak, if, not content with procuring such a boon for two
+or three hundred Christians, you were to endeavour to extend it to an
+equal number of Mussulmans who languish in your prisons?”
+
+The celebrated exchange of prisoners at Sidi Khalifa, May 21st, 1841,
+was the glorious fruits of this touching fusion of two noble hearts.
+
+The bishop had reserved some Arab orphans whose parents had died in
+French captivity. He expected a protest. To his surprise and
+astonishment he received a present and a recommendation. “I send you a
+flock of goats,” wrote the catholic-minded Sultan of the Arabs, “with
+their young who are still sucking. With these you will be able for some
+time longer to nourish the little children you have adopted, and who
+have lost their mothers. Pray excuse this gift, for it is very
+trifling.”
+
+The generous care, the tender sympathy exhibited by Abdel Kader towards
+his prisoners is almost unparalleled in the annals of warfare. Christian
+generals might sit at his feet in this respect and blush for their
+degeneracy. No doubt the prisoners taken by the Arabs were often exposed
+to the insults of their barbarous captors, especially when falling
+amongst tribes exasperated by the sufferings inflicted on them by the
+French. Effectually, however, though slowly, the spirit inculcated by
+the Sultan at length gained ground. Barbarism recoiled before it, mercy
+prevailed, humanity triumphed.
+
+Wherever Abdel Kader was present, indeed, the French in his power were
+treated more like guests than prisoners. He frequently sent them, in
+secret, sums of money, varying from five to twenty dollars, out of his
+privy purse. They were sure to be well clothed and well fed. Abdel Kader
+even went so far as to desire that their spiritual wants should receive
+due attention.
+
+It is thus the uncompromising champion of Islamism writes on the
+subject, in words that deserve to be printed in letters of gold, to the
+Bishop of Algiers:—“Send a priest to my camp. He shall want for nothing.
+I will take care he shall be honoured and respected as becomes his
+double character of a man of God, and your representative.
+
+“He shall pray with the prisoners daily, he shall console them, and he
+shall correspond with their families. He may thus be the means of
+procuring them money, clothes, books, in a word, everything they may
+desire or want, to soften the rigours of their captivity. Only, on his
+arriving here, he must solemnly promise, once for all, never to allude
+in his letters to my encampments or military movements.”
+
+The very sight of a prisoner seemed to touch a chord within the breast
+of Abdel Kader, which called forth all the more lofty sentiments and
+magnanimous feelings ennobling to human nature. His heart, so stern and
+dauntless when confronted with danger, expanded and softened with all a
+woman’s tenderness before the captive’s dark and dreary fate, like
+flowers which only exhale their fragrance to the shades of night.
+
+“Sultan,” said two French prisoners who were brought before him, “we
+wish to become Mussulmans; we are ready to make profession of your
+religion.”
+
+“If you do so in good faith,” replied Abdel Kader, “well and good. But
+if you are needlessly alarmed at your present situation, you will do
+wrong. Though you are, and remain Christians, not a hair of your heads
+shall be touched. Consider rather what will happen to you should you
+return to your countrymen after having renounced your faith. Would you
+not be treated as the most criminal of deserters? How can you hope to
+benefit by the occasion should an exchange of prisoners take place?”
+
+A French prisoner, kindling with indignation at the bare mention of
+apostacy, exclaimed, in presence of Abdel Kader, “As for me, I will
+never renounce my religion. You may cut off my head, but make me a
+renegade, never!”
+
+“Be perfectly easy, your life is sacred with me,” was the reply of Abdel
+Kader. “I like to hear such language. You are a brave and loyal man, and
+merit my esteem. I honour courage in religion more than courage in war.”
+
+A celebrated Moroccan chief asked to see the French prisoners. Having
+remarked a trumpeter, he asked him to play a tune. The trumpeter sounded
+the charge. “What does that mean?” said the chief. “Tell the Sultan,”
+said the trumpeter, “that when he hears that sound, the sooner he gives
+his horse the reins and gallops off, the better.” The chief, feeling
+himself insulted, demanded that the offender should have the bastinado.
+“No, no,” said Abdel Kader, “we must be generous and forbearing to our
+prisoners.”
+
+Abdel Kader’s repugnance to see female prisoners was extreme. The
+thought that women should become victims of war was a source of constant
+anxiety to him. One day, the cavalry of one of his Khalifas brought him
+in four young women, as a brilliant capture. He turned away in disgust.
+“Lions,” he said, sarcastically, “attack strong animals; jackals fall
+upon the weak.”
+
+Once he and his followers were reduced to the greatest straits.
+Subsistence could hardly be procured. In this extremity, he bethought
+him of ninety-four French prisoners lying in his camp in the greatest
+misery. He released them all without ransom or exchange. He even had
+them escorted to the advanced posts, where they were delivered over to
+their comrades, astounded by such an act of generosity.
+
+Numberless acts of magnanimity, known only to the French superior
+officers whom he encountered, or with whom he corresponded, testified to
+the elevation of his soul. One general officer has since said, “We were
+obliged to conceal these things as much as we could from our soldiers;
+for if they suspected them, we should never have got them to fight with
+the due ardour against Abdel Kader.”
+
+Some French artisans had, by permission of the Governor-General, entered
+into a contract with Abdel Kader to execute certain works in four of the
+towns he was rebuilding. They were to receive 3,000 francs each. The war
+broke out before their contract was completed; nearly half of their work
+had yet to be completed. They petitioned for leave to return.
+
+Not only did Abdel Kader at once consent, but he gave them a safe-
+conduct and an escort through tribes who were all in arms, and crying
+out for French blood. At the frontier the entire sum which had been
+agreed upon was counted down to the French artisans, who were thus paid
+by the Sultan for works which they had actually not finished.
+
+Converted, animated, inspired by such an example, the Sultan’s chiefs
+and delegates, throughout the provinces and districts under their
+control, for the most part engaged willingly and cordially in acts of
+sympathy, kindness, and hospitality to their fallen foes. Such were Ibn
+Salem and Ben Hamedi; such a one, also, was Sidi Embarak, that brilliant
+reflex of his master’s mind, whose prisoners, when released, subscribed
+to present him with pistols of honour.
+
+But, in all those tender offices which soothe and assuage the
+unutterable sufferings of the estranged and forlorn, none exceeded the
+Sultan’s mother, the mild, the gentle Leila Zohra. She assumed, as by
+inherent right, the guardianship of all the female prisoners. The care
+and solicitude she lavished on them was as extraordinary as it was
+exemplary. They occupied a tent close to hers. Two of her negro slaves
+guarded the entrances. No one was allowed to approach them without an
+order. Every morning they received from her own hands presents of oil,
+butter, meat, and other articles, for their repast. Did sickness
+overtake any of them, she would bring them, with maternal anxiety, tea,
+sugar, coffee—anything she thought would contribute to their ease and
+comfort.
+
+One day, a batch of French prisoners was brought in and placed
+temporarily near her tent. She came out to see them. “What have you come
+to do in our country?” she observed, looking on them with compassion;
+“it was calm and prosperous, and you have covered it with the desolation
+of war. No doubt, it is the will of God which is being accomplished; but
+that God is all-powerful, His designs are impenetrable. Perhaps, one of
+these days, in the hour of reconciliation, we may restore you to your
+homes and families.” Such words of hope, which thrilled through the
+breasts, and cheered the wounded spirits of the unhappy prisoners, and
+seemed to them like distant gleams of future freedom already beaming on
+their captivity, revealed, in one glorious trait, the mother of Abdel
+Kader.
+
+By his humanity, Abdel Kader had done much more than only inaugurate a
+new era in the treatment of prisoners amongst the Arabs; it was due to
+him that soldiers had ever been spared on the field to be taken
+prisoners at all. The very word “prisoner” had been hitherto unknown
+amongst their savage tribes. To show no quarter, to massacre all who
+came in their way and fell into their hands, to count their vanquished
+enemies by the number of bloody heads dangling on their horses’ flanks,
+and to receive prizes for them, had been their custom, until custom had
+almost grown into an instinct.
+
+Who was the first to abolish such atrocious practices? Who prohibited,
+with all the severity which circumstances would allow, the custom of
+adding to the heads of those who had been slain in open fight, the heads
+of prisoners taken alive, wounded or not? Who, in place of the sum of
+money heretofore given for each of these sanguinary trophies, gave
+double and triple the sum for every prisoner brought in safe and
+sound?—Again and again, let Christendom and the whole civilised world be
+told, that it was Abdel Kader.
+
+Nor was it without the risk of a general insurrection that Abdel Kader
+insisted and persevered in the new course he had marked out. Undeterred,
+however, by threats, unshaken by menaces, he went steadily on till he
+had achieved the moral revolution dictated to him by religion and
+humanity. One of his soldiers, at the commencement of this reform,
+insolently demanded of him—
+
+“How much will you give for a prisoner?”
+
+“Eight dollars.”
+
+“And how much for a head cut off?”
+
+“Twenty-five blows on the soles of the feet.”
+
+One day, Abdel Kader desired that five prisoners, already some weeks in
+custody, should be brought before him. Three were immediately summoned
+by the Khalifa, to whose charge they had been given. The latter,
+dreading the Sultan’s queries, turned to the prisoners and said—
+
+“There, take these burnouses, throw them over your shoulders; the Sultan
+calls for you. If he asks you any questions, mind you say that you have
+been well treated, and that you have wanted for nothing.”
+
+“Very good; but if we are asked if those burnouses are our own?”
+
+“Say that you have had them a long time.”
+
+“Agreed.”
+
+“Woe to you if you make any complaint. Now follow me to the Sultan.”
+
+After having given these warnings, the Khalifa proceeded with his
+prisoners to the tent of the Sultan. Abdel Kader was seated in one
+corner, surrounded by his principal chiefs and Marabouts. The reception
+of the prisoners was designedly solemn. The Arabs and their Sultan
+preserved a mysterious silence. The three prisoners advanced, preceded
+by Hadj Mustapha, the Sultan’s brother-in-law.
+
+“Which of you is the trumpeter?” said the Sultan.
+
+“I am.”
+
+“Take that letter, it is for you.”
+
+As the prisoner read the letter, his cheeks became flushed; tears rushed
+into his eyes; his limbs trembled with excitement. It was a letter from
+his General, informing him that the Legion of Honour had been conferred
+on him, for his bravery in devoting himself for the safety of his
+colonel, in the affair of Sept. 22nd, 1843.
+
+“Step forward,” said the Sultan.
+
+The trumpeter advanced a few paces.
+
+Abdel Kader, with his own hands, fixed the Cross of the Legion of Honour
+on his breast.
+
+Then, turning to his brother-in-law, he said:—
+
+“I only see three prisoners. There were five: where are the other two?”
+
+“They are dead.”
+
+“Since when?”
+
+“A long time ago.”
+
+“Did they die of sickness?”
+
+“We shot them.”
+
+“Shot them!” exclaimed the Sultan, looking sternly at his brother-in-
+law.
+
+“They tried to escape.”
+
+“Is that a reason for killing them? This is wicked, unjust, infamous. If
+the French were to kill my Arabs who are their prisoners, what would you
+say?”
+
+“Dogs of Christians.”
+
+“Enough; for shame! I will have no more of these doings. Do you
+understand me? This shall and must be the last. Give the prisoners
+thirty francs a-piece, place them in my camp, and mind they are well
+provided for.”
+
+From this moment, Abdel Kader determined to procure a national edict as
+regarded the treatment of prisoners; for notwithstanding all his
+vigilance, isolated instances of barbarity still continued to occur. He
+convoked a grand council of all the Khalifas, the Agas, the Kaids, and
+chiefs of tribes. Three hundred assembled. Standing up before them, he
+took for the text of his oration, an article in the Koran, where
+Mohammed blames his brother-in-law Ali for having slain five hundred
+infidels after they had surrendered.
+
+Applying this passage to the case of French soldiers taken prisoners,
+Abdel Kader vehemently insisted that they should no more be wantonly
+killed or mutilated. After eloquently showing, to the conviction of his
+audience, the inhumanity, the disgrace, the inutility of such actions,
+he demanded a decree to the effect, that every Frenchman, whether taken
+in action or otherwise, should be looked upon as a prisoner, and be
+treated with every consideration, until an opportunity presented itself
+for effecting his exchange.
+
+The proposition of the Sultan received the approval of the majority of
+the council. The following decree was at once drawn up; and hundreds of
+copies were made, and forthwith distributed throughout all the towns,
+villages, and tents, in the Sultan’s dominions:—
+
+“Be it ordained, that every Arab who shall bring in a French soldier, or
+a Christian, safe and sound, shall receive a reward, amounting to eight
+dollars for a male, and ten dollars for a female.
+
+“Every Arab who has a Frenchman or a Christian in his possession, is
+held responsible for his good treatment. He is hereby commanded, on pain
+of the severest punishment, to conduct his prisoner, without delay,
+either to the nearest Khalifa, or before the Sultan himself. On doing
+this, he shall receive the promised reward.
+
+“In the case of any prisoner complaining of the slightest ill-treatment,
+the Arab, his captor, shall lose all claims for reward.”
+
+Once—and once only—after the publication of this order, it was reported
+to Abdel Kader that one of his regulars had been taken up with a
+Frenchman’s head in his hands. Starting with indignation, he instantly
+wrote to the Khalifa of the district where the case had occurred,
+commanding him to bring the culprit forthwith to head-quarters. He
+resolved to make a severe example. His regular regiments, both infantry
+and cavalry, and the contingents of irregular cavalry, of the tribes
+nearest by, were all convoked to a grand parade.
+
+On the day, and at the hour fixed, all were under arms. Abdel Kader
+stood surrounded by his civil and military chiefs. The culprit was led
+forth; the head was placed before the Sultan.
+
+“Prisoner,” said Abdel Kader, “was the man to whom this head belonged
+dead or alive, before you cut it off?”
+
+“Dead.”
+
+“Then you shall receive two hundred and fifty blows, for having
+disobeyed my orders. This punishment shall teach you that, as a dead man
+can be no man’s enemy, it is cowardly and brutal to mutilate him.”
+
+The soldier was laid down, and received his award. He rose, and thinking
+his punishment over, was moving off.
+
+“Stay a little,” said the Sultan, “I have another question to ask you.
+While you were cutting off the man’s head, where was your musket?”
+
+“I had laid it on the ground.”
+
+“Two hundred and fifty blows more, then, for having abandoned your arms
+on the field.”
+
+After this second punishment, the unhappy regular could hardly stand on
+his feet. Some men stepped forth to carry him away.
+
+“Not in such a hurry,” said the Sultan, again; “I have another question
+yet to ask. After you had cut off the man’s head, how did you manage to
+carry your musket and the head at the same time?”
+
+“I held my musket in one hand, and the head in the other.”
+
+“That is to say, you carried your musket in such a manner that you could
+not have made use of it. Give him two hundred and fifty blows more.”
+
+Such unbending severity had its due effect. The French had no longer
+occasion to dread falling alive into the hands of the Arabs. When taken
+they were regularly and carefully conducted to the station of the
+nearest Khalifa. On arriving there, they were subjected to a strict but
+mild examination, and were simply asked to what corps they had belonged,
+when and how they had been taken, and whether they had been well treated
+by their captors.
+
+After their declarations had been duly taken down and registered, they
+were forwarded to certain _depôts_ appointed for the reception of
+prisoners. The men were generally sent to Taza, or Tekedemt. The women,
+invariably to the Smala, to be cared for and superintended by the
+Sultan’s mother.
+
+Not satisfied with ameliorating the condition of his own prisoners of
+war, Abdel Kader was extremely desirous of pushing the principle of
+humanity still further, by establishing a regular exchange of prisoners
+on both sides. Often and earnestly did he plead with the French
+generals, that the precedent so auspiciously established and carried
+into effect at Sidi Khalifa, might be extended and confirmed as a
+system. But he pleaded in vain.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVII.
+
+                                 1843.
+
+
+At this period of his fortunes, Abdel Kader was almost as much engaged
+in subduing his own subjects and keeping them to their allegiance, as in
+fighting with the French. The latter, by promises, by bribes, by
+threats, by measures of the utmost severity, tried to gain over the Arab
+tribes as allies and auxiliaries. A razzia on the part of the French was
+sure to be followed by a razzia on the part of the Sultan. Both parties
+endeavoured to establish their power by terror. But, whilst the one was
+actuated by the thirst for conquest, the other was influenced by the
+desire of rescuing his country from its evils, and rendering it
+eventually great and powerful.
+
+The French had learned to appreciate the importance of the Smala. They
+saw in it the real nucleus of Abdel Kader’s influence. They ascertained
+that it was the depository of immense wealth. It now became the chief
+object of their research. From generals of _corps d’armée_ to colonels
+of detachments, all displayed an eager and zealous activity to snatch
+the splendid prize.
+
+In the spring of 1843, Lamoricière opened the campaign by occupying
+Tekedemt. Abdel Kader, with 1,500 cavalry, watched his further movements
+from the neighbouring woods of Serisso. He had learned by spies that the
+general’s object was the Smala. For twenty days he remained in ambush.
+All communication with him was strictly prohibited, lest his presence
+should be discovered. He and his men lived on acorns. The horses were
+fed with leaves. To add to the intenseness of his abnegation, this trial
+came on them during the period of the fast of Ramadan.
+
+One day the chiefs of Abdel Kader came to him radiant with joy. They had
+found a stray sheep. The Sultan at least might have a repast. “Take it
+to my starving soldiers,” said Abdel Kader, and he turned to his meal of
+acorns. Unconsciously, he was following the example of David, when he
+looked on the waters from the well of Bethlehem, and said, “Is not this
+the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives? and he would
+not drink it;” of Alexander, when he refused the helmet of water—“If I
+alone drink, my men will be dispirited;” of Sidney, who on the field of
+Zutphen resigned the cooling draught to his wounded comrade, with the
+touching remark, “This man’s necessity is greater than mine.”
+
+Twice Lamoricière led forth his troops in search of the Smala, and twice
+Abdel Kader drove him back. But treason was at work. Sheik Omar ibn
+Ferrath, of the Beni Aiad, offered to point out the exact spot on which
+the Smala was encamped. Immediately the plan was laid. From Abdel Kader
+no obstruction was feared. He was occupied with Lamoricière. The column
+stationed at Medea was selected for the enterprise. The execution was
+entrusted to the Duc D’Aumale.
+
+On the 10th of May, 1843, D’Aumale left Boghar with 1,300 infantry, 600
+cavalry, and 2 field pieces. Sheik Omar had announced the Smala to be at
+Gojilat. The French reached that place on the 14th. But the Smala was
+gone. Its new locality was unknown. The column wandered about weary and
+uncertain. A fierce simoon sweeping over it reduced the men to utter
+exhaustion. They halted and piled arms. D’Aumale rode on for some miles
+in front, merely accompanied by his cavalry.
+
+At break of day on the 16th, the traitor Sheik rode up to say that the
+Smala was at the spring of Taguin. D’Aumale at once gave orders to march
+on the point indicated. The Sheik expostulated. To attack the Smala with
+600 cavalry appeared to him to be madness. He entreated the Duke either
+to return to his column or to wait till it came up. “No prince of my
+race ever receded,” was the gallant reply; and the trumpets sounded the
+advance.
+
+The Smala was reached. The French cavalry, spreading out like a fan,
+went dashing through that sea of tents, and quickly scattered a
+bewildered and panic-striken population of old men, women, and children.
+The small guard of 500 regulars fired a volley and fled. A handful of
+the Hashems bravely attempted to stem the torrent, but were swept away.
+In less than an hour the victory was complete.
+
+The scenes of confusion and despair which were crowded into that brief
+interval—the frantic efforts at escape, the terror of the flying, the
+dismay of the abandoned—the careering and plunging of a promiscuous mass
+of camels, dromedaries, horses, mules, oxen, sheep, tossing about like
+the waves of a raging sea, have been immortalised by the genius of
+Horace Vernet. The painter’s art alone could do adequate justice to that
+unparalleled and almost inconceivable scene of tumult.
+
+The bloodshed had been comparatively trifling. The trophies consisted
+chiefly of the families of Abdel Kader’s most influential chiefs. His
+own family had escaped. The booty was immense. It comprised thousands of
+animals of all kinds, Abdel Kader’s library, consisting of the rarest
+Arabian manuscripts, richly bound, and valued at £5,000; his military
+chest, containing millions of francs; the chests of his Khalifas and
+Kaids, all deposited in the Smala for security, and filled with gold and
+silver coins, and costly jewellery.
+
+The French soldiers baled out dollars and doubloons in their shakos;
+they filled their haversacks with pearls and diamonds. In the general
+disorder, the voice of command was unheeded; and each seized the prize,
+which a more or less happy chance threw into his hands.
+
+Abdel Kader received the news of the taking of the Smala, in the woods
+of Serisso. The blow for a moment overwhelmed him. He measured at once
+the extent of his misfortune, and saw in that severe decree of fate the
+presage of a dark and calamitous future. Dismissing the messengers who
+brought him the intelligence, he retired from some hours to his tent,
+engaged in meditation and prayer.
+
+His chiefs, his officers and men, had, in the meantime, assembled in
+groups outside. Some were silent and downcast, others gave way to the
+wildest imprecations. Many had lost their all; their wives and their
+children had been taken captive—they might be separated for years,
+perhaps for ever; disordered imaginations filled up this dark shadow of
+the unknown with exaggerated horrors; the distracted sufferers saw no
+prospect of relief. One only feeling gave them a shadow of
+consolation—their Sultan was still amongst them.
+
+Abdel Kader came forth. They crowded to his presence. They watched his
+looks. Some essayed to address him, but the words faltered on their
+lips; none ventured to fathom the secret workings of that profound
+prostration. But the cloud had passed over; a smile played on his
+countenance. “Praise be to God,” he said; “all those objects which I so
+highly prized, which were so dear to my heart, and occupied my mind so
+much, only impeded my movements, and turned me aside from the right way.
+For the future, I shall be free to fight the infidels.”
+
+Then, speaking of those who had fallen, he added, “Why should we mourn
+and complain? Are not all those whom we loved and have lost, now blessed
+in Paradise?” The next day he wrote to his Khalifas:—“The French have
+made a razzia on my Smala; but let us not be discouraged, we shall
+henceforth be lighter and better disposed for war.”
+
+Thus, rising superior to events, Abdel Kader stilled the troubled waters
+which rose around him; from the deepest of his misfortunes he gathered
+hope and encouragement for the future.
+
+When alluding afterwards to this disastrous period, Abdel Kader thus
+expressed himself:—“When my Smala was attacked by the Duc D’Aumale, its
+population could not have comprised less than 60,000 souls. He did not
+carry off a tenth part; it extended from Taguin as far as Djebel Amour.
+When an Arab lost sight of his family in it, he was sometimes two days
+in finding it. Wherever it was encamped, the wells and rivulets were
+dried up. I had established a police force expressly to prevent the
+waters from being muddled or wasted by the flocks. In spite of all my
+precautions, many perished from thirst.
+
+“My Smala contained armourers, saddlers, tailors—every trade, in fact,
+necessary to its organisation. An immense fair was held in it, which was
+much frequented by the Arabs of the Tell. As to our grain, corn, and
+barley, it was either brought to us, or we sent to procure it from the
+tribes of the north.
+
+“The order of the encampment was perfectly regulated. When I had pitched
+my tent, every one knew the place he was to occupy. I had around me
+three or four hundred of my regular infantry, and the irregular cavalry
+of the Hashems of Eghrees, who were especially devoted to me. It was no
+easy task to reach me. Not that I took these measures for my own
+personal security; I felt I was necessary to accomplish the work of God,
+and trusted in Him to strengthen and protect the arm that carried his
+standard.
+
+“At the time of the surprise, I was near Tekedemt, observing the
+division of Oran, which was in the neighbourhood, and from which I
+thought I had most to dread. I had with me 1,500 or 1,600 cavalry. Ben
+Kharoub was with the Flittas, Ben Allal in the Ouarensis, Mustapha-ibn-
+Taamy amongst the Beni Ouragh. But I never thought there was occasion
+for me to fear so terrible a mischance in the direction of Medea; and
+none of my Khalifas were watching the movements of the king’s son.
+
+“Despite all that, however, we should not have been surprised if God had
+not blinded our people. On seeing the Spahis coming on, with their red
+burnouses, it was thought in the Smala that they were my irregulars
+returning. The women even raised the usual cries of welcome and
+rejoicing to their honour. Nor were they undeceived until the first
+shots were fired. Then ensued a scene of inexpressible confusion, which
+baffled all the efforts of those who sought to defend themselves.
+
+“If I had been there, we should have fought for our wives and children,
+and the French would have seen a grand day. But God decreed it
+otherwise. I only heard of the misfortune three days afterwards; it was
+too late.”
+
+The smallness of their force prevented the French from taking more than
+3,000 prisoners; but amongst them were the families of several of the
+Sultan’s Khalifas. The rest of the Smala dispersed in all directions.
+Some fell among Arab tribes, who plundered them. Others were overtaken
+by Lamoricière.
+
+Foremost in the pursuit was Mutapha-ibn-Ismail, who throughout the war
+had made himself conspicuous by the malicious zeal with which he had
+ever aided and directed the movements of the French against the
+distinguished chief whom a base jealousy urged him to thwart and oppose.
+But the traitor now met a merited doom. Crossing the district of the
+Flittas, he was attacked, shot down, and decapitated. His head was taken
+to the Sultan’s head-quarters. Abdel Kader gazed upon it for some
+moments with pardonable satisfaction, and then contemptuously ordered it
+to be thrown to the dogs.
+
+To recover his influence and restore the general confidence by the re-
+establishment of his Smala, was now to Abdel Kader a matter of vital
+importance. But all his efforts were vain. The moral effects of its
+defeat and capture were irremediable. Every day brought Abdel Kader
+information of the defection of large and influential tribes. Arab
+contingents now swelled the ranks of his enemies, and marched openly
+against him.
+
+Yet deeper misfortunes followed. At the very moment when his ablest
+Khalifas were most needed, a remorseless fate removed them. Their career
+was cut short by captivity, or terminated by a glorious death. Deprived
+of these connecting links, his empire lost cohesion. His distant
+provinces fell an easy prey to the French, who everywhere displayed
+their triumphant standards. But the lion heart and iron will still bore
+up, and defied fortune to do its worst.
+
+The province of Oran became the scene of an almost superhuman struggle.
+Followed by a chosen and devoted band of some 5,000 followers, Abdel
+Kader made his presence felt at all points; now he fell on recreant
+tribes; now he made head against the French columns. Ever in the van,
+leading on the charge, plunging into the thickest of the fight, by his
+heroic example he encouraged, animated, and inspired his small band. His
+bravest followers fell around him; his horses were killed under him; his
+burnous was riddled with bullets; but still he fought on, desperately
+braving and sustaining the battle’s brunt.
+
+Once he was taken unawares. On the 23rd September, 1843, he was encamped
+near the Marabouts (or sacred edifices) of Sidi Yoosuf, with a battalion
+of infantry and 500 irregular horse. A spy betrayed his position to
+Lamoricière. A distance of six leagues was between them. The general at
+once led out in person the 2nd Chasseurs d’Afriques. All were elate and
+confident. The space was rapidly traversed by a night’s march. In the
+grey of dawn the spot was reached.
+
+Abdel Kader was aroused from sleep by cries of “The French! the French!”
+He had barely time to mount. He might have escaped, but death in his
+eyes was preferable to the double stain of surprise and flight. His
+infantry sprung to their arms, and by his orders advanced and fired a
+volley. His cavalry rallied at his voice. Then, as the smoke slowly
+rolled away, he dashed into the French chasseurs, overwhelmed and
+dispersed them by the suddenness of the shock, and after a few minutes’
+hard fighting drew off his whole force in perfect order.
+
+The Beni Amers had gone over to the French—those same Beni Amers whose
+4,000 sabres had waved in exultation around the young hero of the
+Djehad; whose brilliant courage had opened before him the path of glory
+and of empire. Abdel Kader determined to attack them. Descending
+suddenly upon them with all his available levies, he swept through their
+encampments, slew numbers, and carried off a large booty. A French
+battalion stationed amongst them struggled vainly to arrest his
+progress. But an Arab chief, one of his old followers, boldly singled
+him out, rode up to him, and fired at him point blank. The ball missed.
+Abdel Kader turned round and shot the traitor dead with his pistol.
+
+Notwithstanding the temporary success of these desperate efforts, Abdel
+Kader well knew that unless some more stable and permanent form were
+given to his energy and perseverance, all attempts to regain his former
+ascendancy, and repair the crumbling edifice of his fortunes, would be
+vain and illusory. Algeria, he now clearly saw, was closed to him, as a
+battle-field likely to be productive of any solid advantages to his
+position, notwithstanding his endless raids and triumphant razzias.
+Without external aid, he felt the game was lost.
+
+The magnificent Smala was now reduced to his own Deira, barely amounting
+to 1,000 souls, wandering about in miserable uncertainty. By fixing it
+in a place of security, he would be ready for fresh efforts. While
+escorting it to a more favourable spot, Lamoricière again crossed his
+path. A desperate engagement ensued. The women animated the combatants
+with their voices. Abdel Kader and his followers, fighting in the
+presence of their wives and children, performed prodigies of valour.
+Again the Sultan’s formidable antagonist was foiled. The Deira was
+safely established at Bouka Cheha, on the territory of Morocco.
+
+The political relations between England and France were at this time
+threatening. Abdel Kader thought the moment propitious. He sent an
+embassy to the Queen of England. In a letter addressed to her Majesty,
+he opened to her the prospect of possessions in Algeria. All the sea-
+coast towns should be ceded to her in full and undivided sovereignty. On
+the other hand, the Arabs required at her hands the acknowledgment of
+their national independence. A glorious alliance between the English and
+the Arabs would present an impassible barrier, he urged, to French
+aggrandisement in Africa. The letter was placed in the hands of the
+Prime Minister. An interview with the Queen was sought by his agent, and
+refused. An answer was promised, but it was never sent.
+
+The embassy was at the same time entrusted with a letter from Abdel
+Kader to the Turkish Sultan, to be transmitted through the British
+Foreign Office. In return for succour promptly sent, the Sultan of the
+Arabs offered to acknowledge the descendant of Othman as his suzerain.
+The letter was forwarded to its destination, but no results ensued.
+
+Whatever were his expectations from the quarters he thus addressed,
+Abdel Kader’s main reliance was in the support and co-operation of the
+Sultan of Morocco. For years, Sultan Abderahman had shown him every mark
+of unbounded cordiality and esteem, had loaded him with presents, and
+offered him the sweet incense of flattery and adulation. But there his
+friendship stopped. Throughout the whole career of Abdel Kader, he had
+never offered to supply him gratuitously with material aid of any kind;
+and Abdel Kader had never condescended to demand it.
+
+Now, however, stern necessity and a solemn sense of religious duty
+compelled him to make the appeal. In the most urgent and pressing terms,
+he adjured the Moorish Sultan to come forward with the whole strength
+and resources of his empire in behalf of the common cause. He pointed
+out the common danger. If all Algeria were to be subdued, where, he
+asked, could be the security for Morocco? Pretexts would not be wanting
+for invading the latter, as pretexts had been found for invading the
+former. The Arab tribes, momentarily dispirited, would revive at the
+sight of the Moorish armies, and, with re-enkindled enthusiasm, range
+themselves round the Moorish standards.
+
+Not content with challenging the political and religious sympathies of
+the Sultan of Morocco, Abdel Kader resolved to win his patron’s
+adhesion, if not to extort his alliance, by an act of personal devotion.
+Several of the frontier Morocco tribes had long been in open revolt
+against their sovereign. He marched against them, subdued them, and sent
+the leaders of the rebellion in chains to Ouchda, forwarding at the same
+time a letter from himself to Sultan Abderahman, stating his services.
+
+The reply of the Moorish monarch was complimentary, but reserved. It
+held out to him no encouragement. Abdel Kader, finding the fruitlessness
+of his advances in that quarter, now summoned around him a few faithful
+adherents, and, relying on his own efforts to retrieve his fortunes,
+disappeared for some months in the Sahara.
+
+The French, relieved of Abdel Kader’s presence, imagined that their work
+was done. His withdrawal from the scene of action was to them the
+grateful symbol of his abdication and defeat. Marshal Bugeaud thus
+congratulated his Government on the glorious result:—“After the campaign
+of the spring (1843), I might have proclaimed Algeria to be conquered
+and subdued. I preferred stating less than the truth. But now, after the
+battle of the 11th of this month, in which the remains of the Emir’s
+infantry were destroyed, and in which his first and most distinguished
+Khalifa was killed, I will boldly declare that all serious warfare is
+finished. Abdel Kader may, indeed, with the handful of cavalry he still
+has about him, make some isolated _coup de main_ on the frontier, but he
+can never again attempt anything important.”
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+                               1844-1845.
+
+
+The erection of an Arab kingdom in Algeria had been viewed by the Sultan
+of Morocco, not only with feelings of religious sympathy and approval,
+but with a cordial appreciation of its commercial advantages. The
+government of the young Sultan of the Arabs, based on a strict and
+undeviating adherence to the principles of the Koran, had largely
+increased both the trade and the revenues of his empire.
+
+Formerly the rich caravans which plied between Fez and the southern
+parts of Africa, passed through Algeria as through an enemy’s country.
+Large guards were necessary to save them from spoliation. They were
+frequently attacked and plundered, with serious loss of life. They had
+to run the gauntlet both of Arabs and Turks. If they escaped from the
+open hostility of the one, they were devoured by the grasping avarice
+and unblushing extortion of the other. Now they traversed the whole
+extent of Algeria in perfect safety. In the interior they paid no tolls;
+at the frontiers they paid no duties. In Abdel Kader’s eyes a custom-
+house was an anomaly and an abomination. The legal _zekka_ and _ashur_,
+and, in case of urgent necessity, the _marouna_, an extraordinary war-
+contribution, were all that his conscience allowed him to demand from
+his subjects. Industry fructified in its natural channels; the
+reciprocity of exchange was unfettered.
+
+When to all these considerations were added the personal esteem and
+regard, the admiration little short of idolatry with which the Moorish
+Sultan reverenced the once triumphant leader of the Djehad, it was fully
+expected throughout the Moorish population, who secretly longed to be
+led on, in alliance with the Arabs, against the infidels, that a loud
+and strenuous appeal to arms would sooner or later have signalised the
+adhesion of Morocco to the common cause, and imparted fresh strength and
+vigour to Abdel Kader’s noble, though waning, efforts of constancy and
+heroism.
+
+But, however sensitive Sultan Abderahman might have been to the
+instincts of his faith, he was not the less tenacious of the stability
+of his own throne. The invading element had swept triumphantly over the
+barriers raised alike by Turkish and Arab desperation. The power which
+had planted its victorious standards in Algiers and Mascara, might well
+carry them to Fez. A demonstration in favour of Abdel Kader on the part
+of Sultan Abderahman, would probably involve them both in a common ruin.
+Balancing between his personal predilections and his political fears,
+the Moorish Sultan hoped to save his conscience and his crown, by doing
+nothing.
+
+Unfortunately for the astuteness of these calculations on the part of
+the Moorish Sultan, the position of Abdel Kader was of such a nature as
+to render a hostile collision between France and Morocco inevitable. The
+sympathies of the Moorish population were gradually burning more and
+more strongly towards the indomitable hero who had honoured their soil
+by making it the sanctuary of his accumulated glories, his sanctified
+misfortunes, and his unflagging hopes. It required but a spark to raise
+a widely-spreading and inextinguishable conflagration.
+
+Abdel Kader had for some time made the Morocco frontier the basis of his
+forays into Algeria. He could retire within the Morocco territory
+without molestation. The French, in order not to be thus baffled, had at
+last advanced a strong division to that part of the frontier from whence
+he made his sallies. But the frontier lines were ill defined. There was
+a portion of the territory which might be considered as debateable
+ground, and this debateable ground was boldly occupied by the French.
+
+The name of the place on which Lamoricière and Bedeau fixed on for their
+encampment was Leila Maghnia, so called after the name of a celebrated
+and highly venerated female saint, whose remains lay deposited in a
+stately tomb, erected on the spot. Here the French dug entrenchments,
+hung up their accoutrements, smoked their pipes, and sung songs.
+
+The profanation was too glaring to be overlooked, too monstrous to be
+endured. A shout of indignation rolled through the Moorish empire. It
+roused the vacillating monarch from his ignominious repose, and
+compelled him either to see himself engulphed amidst the tempestuous
+waves of an irrepressible fanaticism, or at once to send an army to the
+scene of outrage, for the purpose of asserting the national dignity, and
+avenging the foul insult offered to the national faith.
+
+On the 22nd May, 1844, El Ghenaoui, commander of the Moorish garrison at
+Ouchda, summoned the French to evacuate Leila Maghnia. The summons was
+treated with contempt. On the 30th, some Moorish troops approached the
+French position, and encouraged by their leader, a fanatic Shereef,
+allied by birth to the Sultan’s family, gave way to their impetuous
+zeal. With menacing shouts and gestures they reached the French lines.
+They fired into the French entrenchments. Lamoricière and Bedeau
+displayed the French standards and marched against them. Quickly
+defeated and dispersed, the enemy fell back upon Ouchda.
+
+On the 11th of June, Marshal Bugeaud arrived at the camp. He proposed an
+interview between himself and El Ghenaoui, and the arrangement was
+accepted. The interview was fixed for June 11th. Distrust prevailed on
+either side. Each party came towards the ground with a large body of
+troops. In presence of both armies, the chiefs advanced towards each
+other, accompanied by a small escort.
+
+Scarcely had the conference begun when the Moorish cavalry were observed
+to be breaking ground and closing in upon the scene of parley. With
+cries of insult and defiance they brandished their sabres and discharged
+their pistols. Bedeau withdrew with dignity, disdaining to attempt
+reprisals. The main body of the enemy, mistaking this moderation for
+weakness, rushed on tumultuously. The French drew up in order of battle,
+waited a short time for reinforcements, and then, headed by Bugeaud,
+retorted the challenge. A general engagement ensued. Again the Moors
+were routed and put to flight.
+
+Bugeaud, astounded at these acts of treachery, determined to take and
+occupy Ouchda itself. He wrote to El Ghenaoui demanding an explanation.
+The latter only replied in a spirit of prevarication and evasion. The
+French general then sent his ultimatum. In this despatch Abdel Kader was
+declared to be the sole obstacle to a renewal of peace and friendship
+between France and Morocco. The genius of one man thus held the
+reciprocal positions of two empires in suspense. “We wish,” wrote
+General Bugeaud, “to have the same frontier limits which the Turks, and
+Abdel Kader after them, possessed. We want nothing which belongs to you.
+But we must insist on your no longer receiving Abdel Kader, granting him
+aid and support, reviving him when he is nearly dead, and launching him
+forth afresh upon us. This is not good friendship; it is war; and such
+war you have been making on us in this manner for two years.
+
+“We desire that you confine to the west of the empire both Abdel Kader’s
+Deira and his principal chiefs, and that you disperse his regular
+troops, both infantry and cavalry. We require also that you no longer
+countenance the emigration of our tribes to your territory, and that you
+immediately send back those who are already located there.
+
+“We will bind ourselves reciprocally towards you, in the same sense,
+should the occasion present itself. This is what may justly be called
+the practical observance of the principle of good friendship between two
+nations. On these conditions, we will be your friends, we will encourage
+your commerce, and favour the government of Muley Abderahman as much as
+lies in our power. If you act otherwise we shall be your enemies. Answer
+at once and without evasions, for I do not understand them.”
+
+This despatch led to no results. The Moorish army retired into the
+interior; and Bugeaud occupied Ouchda, although but temporarily. The
+dispute, thus commenced on the frontier, soon spread into the higher
+regions of diplomacy. The French Government, in the month of June, 1844,
+sent a squadron under Prince de Joinville to the coast of Morocco to
+support its official reclamations. Marshal Bugeaud received instructions
+to commence offensive operations by land. The bombardment of Tangiers
+and Mogador, and the battle of Isly, compelled the Moorish Sultan to
+carry out the views of the conquering power. France claimed no
+territory, no indemnity, not even the expenses of the war. It merely
+begged Sultan Abderahman, _to deliver it from Abdel Kader_. By the 4th
+article of the treaty of peace which was drawn up, and signed by both
+parties, it was stipulated, that “Hadj Abdel Kader is placed beyond the
+pale of the law throughout the entire extent of the empire of Morocco,
+as well as in Algeria. He will, consequently, be pursued by main force,
+by the French on the territory of Algeria, and by the Moroccans on their
+own territory, till he is expelled therefrom, or falls into the power of
+one or other nation. In the event of Abdel Kader falling into the hands
+of the French troops, the Government of his Majesty the King of the
+French engages itself to treat him with respect and generosity. In the
+event of his falling into the hands of the Moorish troops, his Majesty
+the Emperor of Morocco engages himself to restrict his abode, for the
+future, to one of the towns on the western coast of his empire, until
+the two Governments shall have concerted such measures as will prevent
+the possibility of his resuming arms, and troubling the tranquillity of
+Algeria and Morocco.”
+
+Abdel Kader, on the breaking out of hostilities between France and
+Morocco, had returned to the Deira, there to watch the course of events.
+Sultan Abderahman went through the formality of summoning him to Fez.
+But another summons reached Abdel Kader from the Moorish capital, of a
+far different nature. The defeat of their armies, the humiliating
+dictation of the French, the bitter reversal of all their ardent hopes,
+had filled the Moorish population with fury and resentment. All ranks
+inveighed against the incapacity, and the craven weakness of their
+sovereign. All demanded Abdel Kader.
+
+Letters from the first grandees of the state, from military and civil
+functionaries, from the commercial classes, informed Abdel Kader of the
+general wish, implored him to rescue the empire from impending
+degradation and ruin, and invited him to ascend the throne of his
+ancestors.
+
+Had Abdel Kader been a vulgar usurper, he had now only to put out his
+hand to seize the sceptre of Morocco. But patriotism, not ambition, was
+his ruling motive. He had taken the field for the freedom and
+independence of Algeria. His thoughts, his vows, his prayers, all his
+concentrated energies of body and mind, were devoted to his native land.
+No offer of greatness could seduce him beyond that legitimate sphere of
+action. He disdained to wear a borrowed crown.
+
+“I refused the tempting offer so unanimously made to me,” he afterwards
+said, “not only because my religion forbade me to injure a sovereign
+chosen and appointed by God, but because, knowing Morocco as I did, with
+its discordant races, I felt it would have cost me at least twelve or
+fifteen years, not, indeed, to govern like Muley Abderahman, but to
+enable me in any way to enforce submission to the law, and to make my
+government respected.”
+
+During the spring of 1844, in the hopes of embarrassing the
+concentration of the French army on the frontiers of Morocco, Abdel
+Kader had made a rapid incursion into the regions of the Tell,
+penetrating even as far as Tiaret. Everywhere he appealed to the tribes,
+convoked their chiefs, and called for contingents. But the presence of
+French detachments in all directions had overawed and stupefied the
+national spirit. His summons met with a feeble response. He returned to
+his Deira in the deepest despondency.
+
+In long and anxious reveries, he now examined his position; he weighed
+his prospects; he questioned his conscience. Had he done all, he asked
+himself, that love of country and devotion to his faith demanded? Was it
+too soon to abandon all hope? Was despair criminal? He looked around on
+his Deira, composed of his family and a few hundreds of devoted
+followers, dependent on chance supplies for the bare means of existence,
+and acknowledged that the closing scene had come.
+
+Again his mental horizon cleared up. A grand idea presented itself to
+his imagination. He would rally all the tribes of Algeria, unable to
+endure the yoke of the infidels, and lead them forth in a body towards
+Mecca. In this expedition he would live on terms of friendship with all
+who, on their route, welcomed them as friends; and pass over the bodies
+of those who opposed them as enemies.
+
+What Arab, he argued to himself, could resist such a mighty impulse, or
+fail to be electrified by such a magnificent proposal? What a glorious
+spectacle would be presented by a whole people voluntarily abandoning a
+land which their forefathers, twelve centuries before, had won by their
+swords, rather than share it with the mortal enemies of their faith; and
+bearing back the standards of the Prophet in solemn pomp and grandeur,
+unsullied and uncontaminated, to the scenes and regions of their
+pristine glories!
+
+But while pondering over this gigantic scheme, fresh circumstances again
+aroused him to renewed exertions. Old memories rose up before him. The
+touching appeals of his devoted Khalifas still occasionally reached him;
+renewed assurances of adhesion came in from time to time. His heart
+vibrated and responded to the innate conviction that his name still
+possessed its talismanic influence, and that his presence might yet re-
+animate and inspire the breasts of thousands, now sunk in apathy and
+despair. All combined in urging him to undertake the hazards of another
+campaign, in spite of the fearful odds opposed to him.
+
+From the gorges of the Djurjura, the loyal and chivalrous Ben Salem had
+thus addressed his long-absent sovereign:—“How is it that you no longer
+write to us? The sight of your seal, as you well know, revives all our
+hopes. I assure you, your very existence is called in question; and it
+is generally given out that your mother writes in your name. The French
+are preparing to march upon me, and I cannot answer for the Kabyles; I
+am almost inclined to believe, they are secretly of the religion of the
+conqueror. If you delay coming amongst us, the misfortunes of Berkani
+will be nothing compared to those with which I shall be overwhelmed.
+Answer me in your own handwriting, I conjure you.”
+
+Abdel Kader replied,—“I have received your letter, informing me, that
+the news of my death is spread abroad in the east. No one can escape
+death; such is the decree of the Most High. However, God be praised, my
+hour is not yet come. I am yet full of force and vigour, and I still
+hope to attack with energy the enemies of our religion. It is by such
+proofs that men are known. Be always the same, calm, patient, unshaken,
+and God will recompense you. I will come to you as soon as my affairs in
+the west are settled.”
+
+His absence being still prolonged, and disasters rapidly succeeding each
+other in every quarter, his three Khalifas in the east held a
+consultation as to the best measures to be adopted in such a desperate
+state of affairs. Their master was not there to cheer and animate their
+drooping spirits; and as they separated, Ben Allal, embracing his
+colleagues, exclaimed, “May God re-unite us in another world, for I have
+small hope that we shall meet again in this.” “Despair not,” said Ben
+Salem, newly consoled and supported by a letter he had just received
+from Abdel Kader, “I trust we shall yet all three of us meet in
+Algeria.” “Perhaps so,” added Ben Allal, dejectedly, “if we submit to
+the Christians, which God forbid.”
+
+Soon after, all communication having been cut off by the French troops,
+the Khalifas to the east were again without any news from Abdel Kader.
+Ben Salem dispatched several chiefs of tribes to gather intelligence of
+his movements. By an unexpected piece of good fortune, they found out
+Abdel Kader himself. He received them with affectionate sympathy. Calm
+and cheerful in the midst of his reverses, he listened eagerly to their
+accounts of the embarrassments of his faithful lieutenants, and their
+still untiring zeal. He consoled them with words of comfort and
+assurance; and, on their taking leave, he gave them a horse richly
+caparisoned, as a present to Ben Salem, with the following letter:—
+
+“Be patient in adversity; it is that which is the touchstone of great
+minds. Encourage your officials; aid and assist them; bear with their
+faults of judgment; measure the extent of their capacities with charity
+and consideration. This state of affairs cannot last long. I hope to be
+with you speedily, and then we will come to an understanding as to the
+proper course to be adopted. In the meantime, I beg you to accept the
+horse which I send you: it was a present to me from Mouley Abderahman.
+It may perhaps be propitious to you.”
+
+The Arab tribes had, in some degree, viewed with satisfaction the state
+of comparative repose which had succeeded to those years of constant
+conflicts, in which, whoever conquered, they were sure to be the
+sufferers. But the gradual establishment of French regulations amongst
+them, and especially the haughtiness and severity with which they were
+enforced, as well as the constant presence of French officials, too
+often distinguished by that superciliousness and contemptuous display of
+superiority which intimate intercourse with the eastern races generally
+engenders in the breasts of Europeans, failed not again to awaken their
+slumbering feelings of hatred and fanaticism.
+
+To minds thus prepared for renewed action, the emissaries of certain
+secret religious societies which existed amongst the tribes, found ready
+access. The arm of the Lord, they were assured, was about to be visibly
+revealed. The _Mouley Saa_, or “Master of the hour,” so long expected by
+all true and fervent believers, had appeared, as they were told, and was
+already in the field. “Woe be to those who hung back in doubt or fear,”
+was the rallying cry of these fanatics.
+
+The sect of the “Derkaouas,” famous above all others for their furious
+and infatuated zeal, had found a tool, and boldly put him forward. In
+March, 1845, Mohammed-ibn-Abdallah, surnamed Bou Maza, raised the sacred
+standard in the Dahra and the valley of the Cheliff. This newly-
+installed prophet preached from place to place, exclaiming, “I am the
+destined one who is to appear at the hour predicted in the prophecies,
+the hour of deliverance.” He pledged himself to rid Algeria of the
+French within the year.
+
+This impostor had his goat (which suggested his nickname, Bou Maza, or
+“father of the goat”), as Sertorius had his bitch, through which he
+pretended to receive celestial communications. He promised to all who
+believed in his mission, not only the plunder of the Christians, but
+also of all recreant Mussulmans. By these means he collected around him
+several hundred followers, and surprised and attacked some French posts.
+His successes aroused competitors. Whenever the French advanced, they
+were met by Bou Maza. The fermentation was temporarily, but only
+temporarily, appeased by the French. A greater personage than Bou Maza
+was about to re-appear on the scene.
+
+Abdel Kader, though not a participator in the agitation which had been
+lately set on foot to excite the tribes, saw the ground prepared for
+him. He resolved to reap the harvest which had been sown. He descended
+into the valley of the Tafna, and routed and cut to pieces a French
+detachment at Sidi Ibrahim. In this action the lower part of his right
+ear was carried away by a musket ball. This wound was the only serious
+one that he ever received.
+
+Another detachment laid down its arms to him without firing a shot, at
+Ain Temouchen. The collective prisoners amounted to six hundred. They
+were brought before him. He consoled them in their misfortune. “Never
+despair of the future,” he said; “no harm shall come to you. God has
+decreed that you should fall into my power; He may yet decree your
+liberation.”
+
+The news of these successes spread rapidly abroad. Rumour magnified
+their importance. All hearts beat high with expectation. Soon letters
+from Abdel Kader were read and handed about with transport. In these
+letters the Arabs were told to be of good cheer, since their Sultan
+would soon be amongst them, and implored not to permit any partial and
+ill-judged rising to defeat the common aim. The Khalifas of Abdel Kader
+had received their instructions. “Let all patiently await the signal,”
+it was written, “and then rush with fury on the foe before them.”
+
+The French felt the coming storm; they recognised the genius of Abdel
+Kader; the danger was imminent. Lamoricière, Cavaignac, Bedeau, pressed
+the government for reinforcements. They urged the immediate return of
+Bugeaud. The Marshal left France accordingly, and reached Algeria
+October 15, 1845. He brought new legions. Within a week he took the
+field at the head of 120,000 men. He determined, by a timely display of
+unrelenting rigour, to forestall the menaced blow.
+
+Fourteen divisions, each complete in infantry, cavalry, and artillery,
+scoured the devoted land in every direction, some acting in concert,
+others independently, but all crushing out resistance, wherever it
+appeared, with fire and sword. Men were pitilessly slain, habitations
+ruthlessly burnt, crops given over to conflagration, fugitives smothered
+alive in caves. St. Arnaud led on “The Infernal Column.” Algeria once
+more felt all the strength of European civilisation, but now untempered
+by that mercy which ought to be its attribute.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XIX.
+
+                               1845-1847.
+
+
+Flushed with his recent triumph, and anxious to realise the hopes it had
+awakened in every quarter to which the news of it had reached, Abdel
+Kader, in the month of October 1845, carried his standards to the plains
+of Mascara. Here he was again hailed with as much enthusiasm as at the
+outset of his career. All the tribes which had submitted to the French
+rallied round him. The garrison of Mascara came out against him, but was
+driven back with loss. The French entrenched camps of Saida and Taza
+were strictly blockaded.
+
+But other portions of the country required his presence. It was his
+policy not so much to adopt a system of combined attack against the
+French, which, from his want of regular infantry and artillery, was next
+to impossible, as to foment the spirit of insurrection in all parts of
+the Regency, to keep the French perpetually on the alert by his meteor-
+like appearance in districts apparently subdued, to revive hostilities
+ostensibly extinguished, and then, by the rapidity of his movements, to
+baffle all the measures directed against him.
+
+He now advanced to Tekedemt with 6,000 cavalry, and prepared to descend
+into the valley of the Cheliff. The Beni Shaib, a large and important
+tribe, one hundred and fifty miles away to the south, were reported to
+him as about to go over to the French. The contemplated movement into
+the valley of the Cheliff was instantly suspended. The wavering tribe
+suddenly found itself attacked by Abdel Kader at the head of 5,000
+cavalry. Their chiefs were seized, their flocks carried off, their
+coffers emptied.
+
+The movements of the French had, in the meantime, compelled him to alter
+his plans. No sooner was it known that Abdel Kader was in the Tell, than
+all their efforts were concentrated in that direction. The columns of
+Lamoricière, Bedeau, Yoosuf, and Marcey, were all set in motion. Orders
+were given, that whichever column found itself in presence of Abdel
+Kader, was to fire a signal gun, on which the other columns were
+immediately to converge and lend their aid.
+
+Lamoricière was the first to come up with him, near Tiaret, December 1,
+1845. He was protecting the emigration of several tribes, who, under his
+direction, were withdrawing into the desert. The signal gun was fired.
+Bedeau, Yoosuf, and Bugeaud, rapidly emerged on the scene. But Abdel
+Kader, always admirably served by spies, frustrated this combination,
+and within forty-eight hours had removed the seat of his operations to
+the Ouarensis.
+
+Bugeaud, Lamoricière, Yoosuf, and St. Arnaud, followed in breathless
+haste, and were again on the Sultan’s traces; but their ubiquitous foe
+everywhere gave them the slip, and for weeks led them a fruitless dance
+through the valleys of the Cheliff.
+
+On one occasion he nearly succeeded in annihilating the third-named
+general. On encountering Yoosuf in person on 23rd December, near Temela,
+he pretended to fly. Yoosuf, falling into the snare, followed him up
+with 2,000 cavalry. After thus drawing the French on for some time,
+Abdel Kader suddenly faced about and charged them with 500 irregulars.
+The rain fell in torrents. The firearms of the French would not go off.
+Their horses were dead beat. They got lost in the intricacies of the
+ground, and were on the point of surrendering, when the unexpected
+advance of a column of infantry averted their fate.
+
+That very night Abdel Kader slipped between the columns of Bugeaud and
+Lamoricière, made a sweeping razzia on the Beni Esdama, between Tekedemt
+and Mascara, carried off all their cattle, with abundance of corn and
+barley, and retired unmolested into the Sahara. Several tribes here
+brought him the usual tribute.
+
+He now conceived the daring project of visiting the Djurjura, rallying
+the Kabyles, and making a dash into the Metija. Ben Salem, duly
+informed, prepared to second this movement.
+
+Abdel Kader left the Sahara in February, 1846, followed by part of the
+Beni Hassan, passed, unobserved, through the Wady Isser to the east of
+Medea, and, making a razzia by the way on the Beni Hadoura, who served
+the French, reached the Djurjura, where the Kabyles stood ready to await
+his bidding. With a force of 5,000 warriors, accumulated as if by magic,
+he now swept down into the plains, ravaged and destroyed the French
+colonies, and advanced to within four hours of Algiers itself. The
+French generals were all the while searching about for him in the high
+ground of the Tell.
+
+On the 7th February, he was encamped at the foot of the Djurjura. While
+engaged in midnight prayer, he heard the French order to charge. In
+another moment, the French were upon him. He sprang on his horse and
+called on his men to rally. The Chasseurs closed around him. He fought
+with them single-handed. Two horses were shot under him. He fought on
+foot. He became undistinguishable in the confusion of the skirmish, and
+aided by the darkness of the night effected his escape.
+
+On the 28th Abdel Kader held a grand council of war at Burj bou Keni.
+Deputies from all the Kabyle tribes were present. The question of war
+was warmly mooted. For a time the majority were in favour of a
+continuation of hostilities. At this moment news was brought in that
+Bugeaud was advancing against them with superior forces. The moderate
+party immediately gained the ascendancy. Attack and defence were
+declared to be alike hazardous. Prudence was preferable to a fruitless
+enthusiasm. In that would be the best guarantee for the preservation of
+their liberties.
+
+Abdel Kader left the Djurjura. In a few hours he was in the vicinity of
+Bayhan. There, on the 7th of March, he surprised, routed, and plundered
+the French Douairs, with his body guard of 2,000 cavalry. The booty was
+immense. All the mules and camels of the tribes scarcely sufficed to
+remove it. The long train and its escort entered the passes of the
+Djebel Amour, seeking by rapid stages the districts of the Beni Nail, in
+the Sahara.
+
+On the 13th, while bringing up the rear guard with seventy men, Abdel
+Kader was again attacked by General Yoosuf, who, finding out the
+direction he had taken, had followed him up by forced marches. An open
+space of ground gave the French unusual advantages. Abdel Kader was
+conspicuous on a white charger. Alternately firing and charging, he kept
+the enemy at bay. His men fought with desperation. Forty were killed. At
+length, after two hours’ hard fighting, and after performing prodigies
+of valour, Abdel Kader was lost to view in a defile.
+
+The French were amazed at his gallantry. When, at a later period, he was
+in Paris, the object of universal curiosity and admiration, the French
+general who commanded on this memorable day recalled to Abdel Kader the
+impression made on all who witnessed his chivalrous demeanour at a
+moment when to all appearances he was irrecoverably lost, “If one of our
+officers had displayed such extraordinary heroism,” said General Yoosuf,
+“the Emperor would have sent him the decoration of the Legion of
+Honour.”
+
+Abdel Kader had hoped to recruit his forces amongst the tribes of the
+Sahara. But the French had forestalled him. Everywhere their columns and
+detachments made themselves felt. The Beni Nail, the Beni Shaib, the
+Beni Hassan, from whose resources he had long been accustomed to supply
+his wants, and with whom he had often found shelter in the hour of need,
+all submitted successively to the persevering foe. Wherever Abdel Kader
+presented himself he found lassitude and despondency. Indeed his
+presence began to be looked upon as an omen of misfortune, and a prelude
+to ruin.
+
+He visited the Oulad-Sidi-Chirk, a large and powerful tribe at the
+southern extremity of the Sahara. Their chiefs and marabouts thronged
+about him. They condoled with him. They assured him of their warmest
+sympathies. They offered him a temporary hospitality. But they adjured
+him not to entail upon them the horrors of war, and so to expose the
+venerated tombs of their saints to the profanation of the infidel. Abdel
+Kader received the intimation with composure and resignation.
+Accompanied by his faithful escort, he now returned to his Deira, on the
+Melouia, in Morocco.
+
+He arrived there July 18th, 1846. A terrible episode had just occurred.
+The French prisoners taken in the affairs of Sidi Ibrahim and Ain
+Temouchen, in September, 1845, had been sent to the Deira. They had been
+presented to the Sultan’s mother, had met with a most assuring
+reception, and had been well treated. Nothing was withheld that could
+mitigate the painfulness of their situation. Abdel Kader had more than
+once written to Bugeaud, offering an exchange of prisoners, but his
+offer had been treated with contempt. Such was the position of the
+prisoners when he had left the Deira, on his late expedition.
+
+The Deira, to which was always attached a small body of regulars, was
+under the charge of Ben Hamedi. On the 10th of April, 1846, Mustapha-
+ibn-Thamy, the Sultan’s brother-in-law, arrived from the Sahara and took
+the command. He had left Abdel Kader three days after his brilliant
+action with General Yoosuf, in the Djebel Amour, and brought with him
+several wounded and invalids. He found the Deira greatly reduced in
+numbers, by desertion, by suffering, by privation. Provisions had become
+scarce. The Moorish tribes in the vicinity would only furnish supplies
+for ready money; and of money there was little or none. Two hundred and
+eighty prisoners had become an embarrassment.
+
+In this crisis a report reached Mustapha-ibn-Thamy that the Moorish
+troops, who were not far distant, were about to advance and rescue the
+prisoners. He had no force sufficient to resist such an enterprise if it
+was attempted. The idea of such a stain upon his honour preyed upon his
+mind. If he made his small band of regulars fight to keep them, Moslem
+blood would be shed, and probably fruitlessly shed, for the sake of
+infidels. If he tamely surrendered them, how could he look Abdel Kader
+in the face? He determined to make away with them. On the night of the
+24th of April they were massacred. Ten officers alone were spared.
+
+The first step taken by Abdel Kader on his arrival at the Deira, July
+18th, was to endeavour to get the survivors exchanged. His efforts, as
+usual in such matters, failed. They were, however, finally ransomed for
+30,000 francs. Abdel Kader felt it due to his own reputation, utterly
+guiltless as he was of this deed of blood, to address the following
+letter to the King of the French:—
+
+“Praise be to God, the merciful and compassionate. Glory to our lord and
+master Mohammed.
+
+“On the part of the Prince of the Faithful, Sid-il Hadj Abdel Kader-ibn
+Mehi-ed-deen, may God vouchsafe unto him his favour both in this and
+another world; to the Sultan of the Christians, the commander-in-chief
+of the French armies, King Louis Philippe, may God constantly promote
+the increase of his power, and the execution of his projects in all that
+relates to the happiness of his people, and especially enable him to
+exalt those who follow the good path, and to confound all who do
+otherwise.
+
+“I would call to your recollection that we have ever been ready to
+accept conditions of peace. We have even accepted conditions which you
+thought proper to impose upon us. We rejoiced to be on a good
+understanding with you. Our alliance was cemented by good faith. Our
+treaties had your personal approbation. By an exchange of presents we
+likewise confirmed our mutual feelings of friendship.
+
+“Such was our position up to the moment when certain influential persons
+in Algeria gave a too willing ear to perfidious insinuations tending to
+interrupt the harmony which existed between us, and represented us as
+being culpable and blameworthy, whereas it was we, on the contrary, who
+had every reason to complain of their injustice committed towards us.
+
+“I have written to you many times, both officially and confidentially,
+and invariably my intentions were misconstrued to such an extent that
+the evil consequences spread themselves unchecked all over Algeria.
+
+“During our late expedition in the East, and in the numerous battles we
+fought, God permitted many prisoners to fall into our hands. We rejoiced
+at the circumstance, because it gave us power to offer an exchange. Last
+year we were unable to treat for the deliverance of the Mussulman
+prisoners in your hands, because we were not prepared to offer you a
+proposition which would have suited you. In previous years, however, we
+have sent back to Marshal Bugeaud more than a hundred prisoners without
+exchange.
+
+“Lately, when we had a certain number of your subjects in our power, we
+wrote more than once to those who represent you to propose an exchange
+of prisoners. We received no answer. All the bearers of our letters were
+imprisoned. That was a treachery foreign to French usage. Besides, a
+message between hostile sides is always considered neutral.
+
+“Shortly afterwards it was rumoured amongst the Arabs that the French
+prisoners were to be rescued by force. It was known that French agents
+had offered large sums of money to any who would conduct the prisoners
+to the French outposts. It was, moreover, openly declared that the
+Emperor of Morocco had undertaken to rescue the prisoners in spite of
+us. Your own agents thus became the chief cause of the deplorable event
+which has occurred, by their persistence in refusing to treat of an
+exchange of prisoners.
+
+“We have never made any difference between the prisoners and our own men
+as regards their food and lodging. As soon as we saw there were amongst
+them men of rank and honour, who scorned to seek for means of escape, we
+gave them a marked preference over the others. We found them grateful.
+We proposed to set them at liberty. Their chief (Cognord) knows all the
+arrangements which were being made for their liberation. He knows that
+we never received any reply to our letters, and that this contemptuous
+silence was the cause of the cessation of the good understanding between
+you and us.”
+
+Abdel Kader concluded with an urgent appeal for the release of some
+Mussulman prisoners, and a warm exculpation of himself from all
+knowledge or connivance at any measures whatever which were contrary to
+justice and religion. This letter, like all the preceding, remained
+unanswered.
+
+During Abdel Kader’s late absence from the Deira, several Arab tribes
+had been gradually crossing the frontier, and fixing themselves on
+Moorish territory. The Moorish Sultan had given them lands to occupy.
+The jealousy of the French was awakened. They feared that the emigrants
+might eventually become the nucleus of an invading force. The late
+massacre added to their impatience. They called upon Sultan Abderahman
+to show at once by his deeds the sincerity of his professions. They
+demanded the immediate expulsion of Abdel Kader from his empire.
+
+Abdel Kader, meanwhile, only anxious for freedom from molestation, had
+already commenced sowing the grounds near the Melouia for the
+subsistence of his Deira. Bou Maza wrote to him inviting him to join him
+in renewing the struggle. He rejected the instigation. With whatever the
+future might be pregnant, for the present he sought only repose and
+tranquillity. But these blessings he was not allowed to obtain. Mouley
+Abderahman sent him a letter to the effect that he must immediately
+withdraw, with his Deira, from Moorish territory.
+
+Abdel Kader assembled his followers, and read them the letter. They
+unanimously declared it would be ignominious to yield to the demand of a
+recreant who had betrayed his faith and signed a humiliating treaty with
+the infidel. “We have pledged ourselves by oath,” they said, “to fight
+with you to the death. We are ready to follow you wherever you choose.
+But into Algeria we will not follow you. Abdel Kader conveyed these
+sentiments to Abderahman, promising at the same time not to attack the
+French. In his Deira he would resignedly await the decrees of God.
+
+The Moorish tribes were now secretly instructed to molest the Deira.
+They refused to sell it provisions. Its foraging parties were attacked
+and robbed. Abdel Kader wrote a strong appeal to Abderahman against such
+conduct. He got neither answer nor redress. He endured this treatment
+patiently for six months. Again he addressed the Moorish Sultan, and
+warned him that if such annoyances were continued he should vindicate
+his own rights.
+
+In self-defence he now re-assumed a hostile attitude. His body-guard of
+1,200 cavalry and 800 infantry patrolled the country on all sides. The
+Moorish aggressors were chased to their very tents; they were brought to
+the Deira and chastised. By a few such acts of vigour his position was
+improved; provisions flowed in. More than one Moorish tribe offered to
+join the Deira. Wherever Abdel Kader showed his person he was welcomed
+with professions of submission and allegiance; his material strength
+increased hourly. The large and influential tribe of the Beni Hamian
+sent in their adhesion.
+
+One night, while the Deira was still at Ain Zohra, an assassin glided,
+unperceived by the guards, into the tent of Abdel Kader. The Sultan was
+reading. Hearing a footstep, he raised his head, and saw standing before
+him a tall, powerful negro, with a dagger in his hand. Suddenly the man
+dashed the weapon to the ground, and threw himself at his feet. “I was
+going to strike you,” he exclaimed, “but the sight of you disarmed me. I
+thought I saw the halo of the Prophet around your head.”
+
+Abdel Kader, rising slowly from his seat, and without betraying the
+least emotion, placed his hand on the negro’s head and said, “You came
+into my tent as an assassin. God, who moved you to repent of your wicked
+intention, has ordained that you should leave it an innocent man. Go,
+then, and remember that the servant of God has pardoned you.”
+
+In the month of July, 1847, the Deira was encamped in Wady Aslaf, on the
+territory of the Kabyles of the Rif. While in this position it was
+suddenly menaced by a large Moorish force led by Mouley Hashem, the
+Sultan’s nephew, and the Kaid El Hamra. The Prince began by sending out
+a strong reconnaissance, which was immediately repulsed by the Deira’s
+outposts. Abdel Kader sent to the Prince to demand an explanation as to
+the cause of this hostile proceeding in the midst of peace. He received
+a haughty and disdainful answer. That very night he fell upon the
+Moorish camp by surprise, and completely routed and dispersed it. The
+Kaid El Hamra was slain, and Mouley Hashem barely escaped with his life.
+
+A great quantity of baggage was taken, and specie to the amount of
+£2,000 English money. Abdel Kader and his chiefs viewed with mingled
+feelings of scorn and triumph the splendid cloaks and burnouses which
+the Moorish Prince had packed up in cases, for the purpose of
+distributing them amongst the Sheiks of the Rif tribes, and inducing
+them by such gifts to join him. On his return to the Deira Abdel Kader
+found that the Beni Kullayieh, availing themselves of his absence, had
+made an irruption into his camp and carried off all the camels. Without
+a moment’s repose he pursued the marauders, slew upwards of a hundred of
+them, and captured all their Sheiks.
+
+The rumour of Abdel Kader’s renewed activity, and of the momentary gleam
+of success which shone upon his efforts, was quickly bruited throughout
+the Moorish empire. It created a sensation amongst its fanatic
+population which thrilled to the very capital. The emigrant Algerian
+tribes, which had been located by order of the Moorish Sultan within
+three days of Fez, longed to regain their adored chief. The Beni Amer
+entered into correspondence with him, and begged him to assist them in
+effecting a junction.
+
+Sultan Abderahman got notice of the design. In his terror he fancied
+Abdel Kader thundering at his palace and hurling him from his throne.
+Not a moment was to be lost; a force of 15,000 men was at once
+despatched against Beni Amer. The tribe, taken unawares, was cut to
+pieces, while the women and children were carried away into slavery.
+
+Such persevering and even barbarous acts of hostility filled Abdel Kader
+with despair and indignation. But what could his handful of men effect
+against the combined armies of France and Morocco, amounting to 100,000
+men? He determined to make a last appeal to his old friend, patron, and
+admirer. He sent his Khalifa, Bou Hamedi, on a mission to Fez. In the
+most solemn manner he invoked the glorious recollections of the past. He
+claimed the sacred rites of hospitality in the name of every tie of
+friendship and religion.
+
+But the days of country, of fraternity, of holy sympathy, were
+irrevocably past. Mouley Abderahman saw himself daily environed with
+fresh difficulties. The French Government hourly demanded the literal
+execution of its treaty. Bou Hamedi was thrown into prison, where he
+shortly afterwards died. Abdel Kader at length received the following
+imperial mandate:—“Abdel Kader must either surrender himself in person
+to Sultan Abderahman, or return to the Algerian desert. In case of
+refusal or delay, the imperial armies will march against him.” The last
+link was thus broken between him and his only hope. He stood at bay,
+alone.
+
+Calm and undismayed, he now saw the toils closing around him. In the
+Deira all was grief and despondency. His own brothers had left him. Ben
+Salem—the faithful, long-tried, and devoted Ben Salem—was a voluntary
+prisoner in the French camp. His whole available force barely amounted
+to 2,000 men, but among these there were 1,200 horsemen, the flower of
+the Algerian cavalry. Most of these men, also, had been the Sultan’s
+inseparable companions, partakers in all his hardships and dangers
+throughout the whole of his heroic career.
+
+During the short period of rest which Abdel Kader now enjoyed, he daily
+summoned them around him. He was incessant in vocal prayer and
+exhortation. The bronzed old warriors hung with rapture on his accents.
+Fired with martial enthusiasm, they prepared for the final act.
+
+At other times Abdel Kader retired to his tent, and kept long and lonely
+vigils. One night he stood up for seven successive hours while he
+repeated off by heart the whole of the Koran, from beginning to end. In
+such religious exercises he renewed his soul’s strength. Ever worthy of
+his destiny, he now towered above it.
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XX.
+
+                                 1847.
+
+
+On the 9th of December, 1847, the Deira was stationed at Agueddin, on
+the left bank of the Melouia. It comprised in all about 5,000 souls.
+Rumours had long been afloat that the Moroccan army was advancing
+towards it in great strength. On the 10th Abdel Kader got positive
+information that Muley Mohammed and Muley Soliman, the two sons of
+Sultan Abderahman, were at only three hours’ distance, at the head of
+upwards of 50,000 men. This force, he learned, was divided into three
+grand divisions, with intervals of half a mile between each. The first
+division, consisting mostly of Arab auxiliaries, such as the tribes of
+the Riff, the Beni Snassen, and others, had taken up its ground, it was
+reported, around the ruined castle of Selwan.
+
+Abdel Kader saw at once that if this imposing array was permitted to
+move forwards unmolested, his Deira would inevitably be captured. On the
+other hand, to attack it with his small force seemed to him like to
+rushing on certain destruction. Feelings of honour, of chivalry, of
+revenge, however, all conspired to make him determine on essaying a
+desperate effort.
+
+On the 11th he collected together his 1,200 cavalry and 800 infantry.
+After a spirited harangue, he informed them that they must prepare that
+very night to follow him to battle. To such a command, amongst such
+followers, there could be but one reply. They all departed in silence to
+accoutre themselves for the approaching struggle.
+
+At dead of night they moved on. Two camels, covered entirely with
+_halfa_, a kind of brushwood, and which had been dipped in tar and
+pitch, were driven in front of the little column. After a march of two
+hours the first division of the enemy was reached; the _halfa_ around
+the camels was set fire to, and the maddened animals plunged furiously
+on; the infantry fired; the cavalry, led on by Abdel Kader, charged.
+
+The amazement and bewilderment of the Moroccans and the Arabs upon whom
+this sudden tempest fell was immeasurable. Slumbering in fancied
+security during the calm silence of the night, they suddenly saw the
+thick darkness illumined by flashes of light, the glistening of sabres,
+and the glare of two incomprehensible meteors sweeping above and around
+them with unearthly coruscations. The terrors of superstition were
+superadded to those of fright and consternation. The men rushed off in
+all directions, as though the gates of hell had been opened and its
+demons let loose against them, abandoning arms, tents, and baggage.
+
+In the meantime Abdel Kader and his cavalry had passed on, and were in
+deadly collision with the second division, which in like manner was
+surprised, defeated, and dispersed. In less than half an hour the third
+division was reached. There, warned by the noise and tumult in their
+front, the Moroccan princes had just had time to draw up some regulars
+to defend their persons. The intention of Abdel Kader was to make
+straight for their tent and make them prisoners. Checked by a heavy fire
+of infantry and artillery, he now withdrew; and, as the day dawned,
+slowly and steadily he took up a position on an adjoining eminence, and
+thence enjoyed the sight of his discomfited and broken foe.
+
+At mid-day, 5,000 Moroccan cavalry moved out against him. He calmly
+awaited their approach, and when they had arrived at a charging distance
+led on his men to the attack, ploughing through and through their
+clustering files, and shaking them off like dew-drops from the lion’s
+mane. By a skilful combination of assault and retreat, Abdel Kader and
+his illustrious cavalcade regained the Melouia towards sunset.
+
+Many were the brilliant passages of arms performed by those giant
+warriors, who, in that memorable struggle, crowned their long career of
+glory by deeds of superhuman valour. Memorable also was that struggle,
+as having furnished the closing scene to the stirring and eventful
+career of Ibn Yahyié, the favourite and far-famed Aga of Abdel Kader.
+Ibn Yahyié was the stalwart champion of countless combats. He was
+surnamed “El Sheitan” from his wondrous exploits and marvellous escapes.
+In his day he had had seventeen horses killed under him. It was now his
+destiny to earn his last laurels in a martyr’s death.
+
+The Deira had nearly effected its passage across the river. The baggage
+and the spoils taken from the enemy were still traversing it when Abdel
+Kader arrived. The Moroccan army advanced, but cautiously. Their cavalry
+now only fired long shots, unenvious of renewing their lately-earned
+bitter experience.
+
+Nevertheless, the situation of Abdel Kader was full of peril. Never had
+the Deira been in such imminent danger. The ammunition was expended. The
+large quantities of ammunition which Abdel Kader’s followers had
+captured and were now bringing in proved useless—it was unsuited to
+their muskets. The infantry, therefore, could be turned to no account.
+But Abdel Kader still saw his Old Guard around him, and looked and felt
+triumphant. Their presence was, in his mind, the Deira’s safeguard.
+
+The Melouia was at length passed. Though the foe kept pressing on, Abdel
+Kader refused to leave its banks until his Deira was a full hour in
+advance, on the plain of Triffa. At last it reached the river Kis,
+crossed it about midnight, and ceased to be molested. It was on French
+territory.
+
+Of all that tumultuous crowd of men, women, children, and animals, not a
+life had been sacrificed, not a beast of burden had been lost. Abdel
+Kader, by his coolness, skill, and intrepidity, had been its guardian
+genius. Many a sad blank, however, had been made in the ranks of that
+heroic band, which with such unflinching devotion had answered to the
+voice of its chief and emulated his example, throughout the unparalleled
+foray in which under his guidance they had been so unequally engaged.
+Upwards of 200 had been slain. All were more or less bleeding from
+wounds. Abdel Kader himself had had three horses shot under him.
+
+Leaving his Deira in momentary security, he now turned towards the hills
+of the Beni Snassen—a tribe which yet adhered to him in part. His
+indomitable cavalry followed in anxious silence, suffering, wearied, and
+exhausted. The rain fell in torrents. Heavy and conflicting thoughts
+preyed on the mind of the wandering chief. Though the French were seen
+in the distance, occupying the principal pass of the Kerbous, there were
+yet narrow defiles through which he could emerge into the Sahara. He
+might yet try his fortunes. But to what end? he thought despairingly.
+How was he to persevere in a bootless struggle? What force had he at
+command? On what assistance could he calculate? Then his thoughts
+reverted to his aged mother, his wife and children, his helpless
+followers, who were within three hours of the French camp, and might
+probably enter it ere long a mounted train, as prisoners of war. In no
+extremity had Abdel Kader ever found himself so hopelessly pressed. He
+felt the crisis of his fate had come. What he meant to determine, he
+knew he must determine quickly.
+
+He sounded a halt. He ordered his men to close up. When they had
+surrounded him, he thus commenced a conference which he had that moment
+resolved to open:—
+
+“Do you remember the oath you took at Medea eight years ago, at the
+renewal of the war,” he said—“the oath that you would never forsake or
+abandon me, whatever might be your dangers or sufferings?”
+
+“We all remember it, and are ready still to adhere to it.” “That oath,”
+pursued Abdel Kader, “I have ever considered to be binding on me towards
+you, as well as on you towards me. It is this feeling alone which has
+made me persevere in our struggle up to this hour, even against hope. I
+was resolved that no Mussulman, of whatever rank or degree, should ever
+be able to accuse me of binding you to any engagement which I on my part
+was not equally prepared to fulfil; or to say that I had not done all in
+my power to insure the triumph of the cause of God. If you think I can
+yet do anything, tell me. If not, I ask you to release me from the oath
+I made you mentally, when I solemnly demanded yours.”
+
+“We all bear witness before God, that you have done all that it was in
+your power to do for his cause. At the day of judgment God will do you
+justice.”
+
+“If that is your opinion, we have now only three courses open before
+us—either to return for the Deira, and with it be prepared to encounter
+every obstacle; or to seek out a path for ourselves into the Sahara, in
+which case, the women, children, and wounded would not be able to follow
+us, and must fall into the hands of the enemy; or, lastly, to submit.”
+
+“Perish women and children, both ours and yours, so long as you are safe
+and able to renew the battles of God. You are our head, our Sultan;
+fight or surrender, as you will, we will follow you wherever you choose
+to lead.”
+
+Abdel Kader paused for a few moments, and then with deep emotion
+resumed:—
+
+“Believe me, the struggle is over. Let us be resigned. God is witness
+that we have fought as long as we have been able. If He has not given us
+the victory, it is because He has deemed that this land should belong to
+the Christians. It signifies very little whether I remain in the country
+or not. What more can I do for the cause we have so long defended
+together? Can I renew the war? I shall be defeated; and the Arabs would
+only be exposed to renewed sufferings.
+
+“Besides, the tribes are tired of the war. They would no longer obey me.
+We must submit. The only question is, whether we shall deliver ourselves
+into the hands of the Christians, or into those of Mouley Abderahman. In
+this respect you can do as you judge best. As for myself, I would prefer
+a thousand times to trust in those who have fought against me, than in
+the man who has betrayed me. Our situation is difficult; and our demands
+must consequently be modest. I shall confine myself to asking for a safe
+conduct for myself and my family, and those of you who choose to follow
+me to another Mussulman country.”
+
+A doubt was now raised by some of the members of the conference as to
+the probability of such a stipulation being faithfully carried into
+execution. To this doubt Abdel Kader replied, “Do not be afraid. The
+word of the French is one. Either they will not pledge their word to its
+fulfilment, and then we can see what is best to be done; or if they
+pledge their word, they will keep it.” “Sultan,” was the universal
+reply, “let your will be done.”
+
+The rain was still falling so incessantly that it was impossible for
+Abdel Kader to write down his demands. Taking a piece of paper, he
+affixed his seal to it, and immediately dispatched it with two horsemen,
+who were commissioned to show the seal to the French General, as a sign
+of authorisation on his part for demands which they were to make in his
+name verbally.
+
+During the night of the 21st December, Lamoricière had been informed
+both of the arrival of the Deira within the French frontier, and of the
+direction which Abdel Kader and his little force had taken. To the Deira
+he at once sent assurances of safety. The prize was important. But the
+concentration of any amount of men against the camp of Abdel Kader would
+have been of little permanent avail, if the redoubtable chief himself
+were yet at large. Without a moment’s delay, therefore, Lamoricière
+started in his pursuit, at the head of a small column of infantry and
+cavalry.
+
+He had scarcely marched three hours when he was unexpectedly joined by
+Ben Khouia, a lieutenant of his Arab Spahis, accompanied by the two
+emissaries of Abdel Kader. The latter showed him their master’s seal and
+stated his demands. Lamoricière was overjoyed. He granted everything.
+But, as in the case of Abdel Kader, the rain prevented him from stating
+his consent in writing, and his seal was not in his possession. In this
+emergency he gave his sword, and the seal of Commandant Bazaine, to the
+emissaries, to be presented to Abdel Kader in token of the acceptance of
+his conditions.
+
+At a later period, when taunted in the Chamber of Deputies with having
+allowed Abdel Kader to escape, when by a little energy he could have
+taken him prisoner, and with having committed a grave error in so
+unreservedly granting him the privilege of unrestricted liberty,
+Lamoricière thus defended his conduct, defined his position, and stated
+the motives which had induced him to sign the treaty thus attacked:—
+
+“It has been brought as a charge against me that I entered into a
+negotiation in place of marching on. Do you know what I should have
+taken if I had marched on? I should have taken his convoy; I should have
+made one razzia the more; I should have been able to report that I had
+taken the tent of Abdel Kader, his carpet, his harem, perhaps one of his
+Khalifas; but he, with his cavalry, would have gone into the desert.
+
+“The Emir made a voluntary abdication; and France, after having thrown
+the whole weight of its brave armies upon Algeria, saw the chief who had
+preached, excited, and conducted the Holy War, come in the end, and
+voluntarily deposit his arms in the hands of the Governor-General. For
+France, this was at once a military, a political, and a moral triumph.
+The effect produced by it among the natives was immense, and its
+consequences have yet to be developed.
+
+“Abdel Kader is the incarnation of a principle—of a great religious
+sentiment; and in Algeria this is the only political sentiment which
+unites the population. This principle manifested itself in the Holy War.
+It had the same force which legitimacy formerly possessed amongst us.
+When a man by the prestige of the past, by his belief, by his eloquence,
+by the battles he has fought, and by the successes he has gained, has
+become the living representative of an idea profoundly agitating the
+masses, an immense danger is incurred as long as he is left in his
+country.”
+
+Abdel Kader had moved on to the village of Triaret. His emissaries
+returned. He convoked his men to deliberate on the answer which he had
+received. It was remarked that the promise given by the French general
+was merely verbal; and, although the value of the answer was
+acknowledged, supported as it was by the transmission of the general’s
+sword and the seal of one of his officers, yet it was considered only
+prudent, when a decision of such vital importance to all was to be
+taken, that a further guarantee should be claimed.
+
+The rain having ceased, Abdel Kader now wrote a letter to Lamoricière,
+stating his demands, and again dispatched his emissaries to seek him
+out. The general had already communicated the important transaction to
+the Duc D’Aumale, the new Governor-General, who happened to be in the
+immediate neighbourhood. On receiving Abdel Kader’s letter, he had
+addressed his Royal Highness as follows:—
+
+“I have been obliged to make engagements; I have made them, and I have
+done so with the fullest confidence that your Royal Highness and the
+Government will ratify them if the Emir relies on my word.
+
+“I am this instant mounting my horse to go to the Deira. I have no time
+to send you a copy of the letter which I have received from the Emir, or
+of my reply to it. Suffice it for me to state, that I have only
+_promised and stipulated_ that the Emir and his family shall be
+conducted to St. Jean d’Acre or Alexandria. These are the only two
+places which I have mentioned. They are those which he designated in his
+demand, and which I have accepted.”
+
+With a written stipulation in his possession, in entire compliance with
+his own terms, Abdel Kader had no further cause for hesitation or delay.
+On the morning of the 23rd of December he proceeded, accompanied by such
+of his chiefs and followers as had decided on sharing his fortunes in a
+foreign land, to the marabout (or temple) of Sidi Ibrahim. There he was
+received by Colonel Montauban, at the head of 500 cavalry, with all the
+respect, sympathy, and consideration due to his exalted rank, to the
+recollection of his past glorious deeds, and to the spectacle of his
+present heavy and severe misfortune.
+
+Abdel Kader begged for permission to be allowed to enter the sacred
+edifice. On this request being granted, he dismounted, and, on reaching
+the door, took off his sword, and gave it to one of his attendants. His
+military career had ended. Hitherto his life had been devoted to God and
+his country. Henceforth it was to be devoted to God alone. After having
+been an hour engaged in prayer, he came forth, and the whole cavalcade
+at once moved on.
+
+At six o’clock in the evening it reached Djemma Ghazouat, the head-
+quarters of the Duc D’Aumale. A few minutes afterwards Abdel Kader,
+accompanied by General de Lamoricière, General Cavaignac, and Colonel
+Beaufort, was presented to his Royal Highness. After a moment’s pause he
+pronounced the following words:—“I had wished to have done what I am
+doing this day at an earlier period. I awaited the hour destined by God.
+The general has given me a word on which I fully rely. I am not afraid
+that it will be broken by the son of a great king like the King of the
+French.”
+
+The Prince, in a few clear and explicit words, pledged himself that the
+general’s word and engagements should be strictly observed. Abdel Kader
+then withdrew and went to his Deira, which had recently joined the
+French encampment.
+
+The next morning the Duc D’Aumale held a review. Abdel Kader, riding a
+magnificent black charger of the purest Arab breed, and surrounded by
+his chiefs, awaited his return from the field. On his Royal Highness
+approaching he dismounted, and advancing to his side, said, “I offer you
+this horse, the last which I have mounted. It has been a great
+favourite, but now we must part. It is a testimony of my gratitude, and
+I hope it may always carry you in safety and happiness.” “I accept it,”
+replied the Prince, “as a homage rendered to France, the protection of
+which country will henceforth be ever extended towards you; and as a
+sign that the past is forgotten.”
+
+On the 25th December, 1847, Abdel Kader, his family and followers,
+embarked in the _Asmodeus_ frigate for Toulon. All his personal effects,
+his baggage, his tents, his horses, mules, and camels, had previously
+been sold by the French authorities for 6,000 francs. But even this
+paltry sum was afterwards only doled out to him in instalments, and a
+strict investigation was even instituted as to the manner in which each
+instalment was disbursed. General de Lamoricière accompanied him on
+board, and generously made him a present of 4,000 francs. Abdel Kader,
+in return, gave him his sword.
+
+The sensations of joy and triumph excited in France at the news of Abdel
+Kader’s surrender were unbounded. Algeria could at last and with truth
+be styled “a French colony.” The _Moniteur_ of January 3rd, 1848, thus
+alludes to the welcome intelligence:—“The subjugation of Abdel Kader is
+an event of immense importance to France. It assures the tranquillity of
+our conquest. It permits us sensibly to reduce the quota of men and
+money which we have been sending for so many years to Africa. It
+contributes, from this fact alone, to augment the force of France in
+Europe. _To-day, France can, if necessary, transport to other quarters
+the hundred thousand men which held the conquered populations under her
+yoke_.”
+
+What a tribute are these words to the genius and ascendancy of one man!
+
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XXI.
+
+                               1847-1848.
+
+
+Abdel Kader arrived at Toulon the last week in December, 1847. A few
+hours, or days at most, he thought, would suffice for any arrangement
+which might still be necessary to facilitate his departure for the East.
+He was invited to disembark, though no preparations whatever had been
+made to receive him.
+
+To his surprise, he and his family, and followers, eighty-eight in all,
+were marched up to a fortress—the Fortress of Lamalgue. He remonstrated.
+He was told not to be alarmed; and it was explained to him that a
+certain time was necessary for the requisite correspondence, either with
+the Turkish Government, if he was to be sent to St. Jean d’Acre, or with
+the Egyptian Government, if he was to be sent to Alexandria; and that
+then he could be allowed to proceed to his place of destination.
+
+The day after his imprisonment a French officer demanded an interview.
+General Daumas came, officially charged by the King of the French, to
+make him the most brilliant offers, if he would only consent to forego
+the solemn word which had been given him by General Lamoricière and the
+Duc D’Aumale when he surrendered. He was offered a splendid position in
+France—a royal château, a guard of honour, and all the pomp and
+appurtenances of a prince.
+
+Abdel Kader listened to the shameful proposal in contemptuous silence.
+Being pressed for a reply, his countenance flashed up, and fixing his
+eagle eye on his old friend, he said with warmth, “Have you ceased to
+know me? What! is it you who thus speaks to me? Your diplomatic talents,
+I have no doubt, are very useful to France; but I intreat you not to
+expend them thus uselessly on me.”
+
+Then, taking up a corner of his burnous with both hands, and leaning
+towards the window, he exclaimed, “If you were to bring me, on the part
+of your King, all the wealth of France in millions and in diamonds, and
+it were possible to place them all in the fold of my burnous, I would
+throw them on the instant into the sea which washes my prison walls,
+rather than give you back the word which has been so solemnly given me.
+That word I will carry with me to my grave. I am your guest. Make me
+your prisoner if you will; but the shame and ignominy will be with you,
+not with me.”
+
+He was asked if he would like to go to Paris. “I know,” he replied,
+“that Ibrahim Pacha lately visited it, and admired its wonders. But
+France was to him a land of hospitality. He was free! As for me, as long
+as I remain a prisoner, all France is but a dungeon. I have no wish to
+be a victim crowned with garlands.”
+
+Patient and resigned himself, Abdel Kader infused his followers with the
+same spirit. They had hitherto been his subjects, accustomed to approach
+him with all the deference and respect due to royalty. They were now his
+companions. A common calamity had levelled all barriers. He placed his
+little means at their disposal, too happy if he could in any way
+contribute to their wants and alleviate their sufferings. “In the
+position in which I am now placed,” he said, “I must do as my ancestors
+have done. I can no longer say, ‘My horse, my burnous, my goods;’ but
+‘Our horse, our burnous, our goods.’”
+
+One day General Daumas came to visit him. It was in the depth of winter.
+Abdel Kader was without a fire. The general expressed his surprise. “My
+wood,” he replied, “was finished yesterday, and I could not bring myself
+to ask any of my companions to spare me some of theirs. Poor fellows! in
+place of taking from them, I wish it were always in my power to bestow.”
+“You are not, then, like those great chiefs who seem to take a pleasure
+in exhausting their people,” remarked General Daumas. “If I had
+resembled such rulers,” was the reply of Abdel Kader, “would the Arabs
+have sustained the struggle with you so long as they did, and sacrificed
+everything to uphold me?”
+
+Day after day passed, and still there came no orders for his release. A
+painful uncertainty agitated his mind. At one time Colonel Beaufort, the
+Duc D’Aumale’s aide-de-camp, assured him, on the part of the Prince,
+that the King had resolved that the stipulation made with him should be
+fulfilled. At another time he was told that the Chamber of Deputies had
+called its validity in question.
+
+On the 28th of February, 1848, Abdel Kader got the news of the
+revolution, of the abdication of the king, of the proclamation of the
+Republic. He saw at once the immense import of that event to his own
+prospects, and felt himself to be the sport of a capricious fortune.
+With the new Government he had no bond. He could no longer plead for the
+sanctity of treaties, of honour, of good faith. He could not expect an
+act of generosity, he felt, when he had failed to obtain common justice.
+
+The sudden crash of a monarchy, hitherto supposed to be fixed on a solid
+and enduring basis, was to him an apposite spectacle. He moralised to
+those around him on the worthlessness and instability of human grandeur.
+“Behold,” he said to General Daumas, “behold a Sultan who was everywhere
+esteemed great and powerful, who had contracted alliances with other
+sovereigns, who had a numerous family to perpetuate his line, who was
+renowned for his wisdom and experience! A day has sufficed to overthrow
+him. Am I not right in my conviction that there is no other real force,
+no truth and no reality, but in the will of God? Believe me, this world
+is a carcass; dogs only quarrel over it.”
+
+He received a visit from M. Olivier, Commissary-General of the
+Provisional Government. The great Republic had deigned to think of its
+captive. But it approached him not as a Paladin, chivalrously determined
+to redeem French honour, but as a suppliant, trembling at the magic of a
+name which, even in its collapse, was of ominous import to French
+dominion. He was asked what guarantees he could give to France that he
+would not appear again in Algeria.
+
+“I have no other guarantee to give of my unchangeable resolution for the
+future,” he replied, “but that which I have already given. If I had not
+wished to surrender I should not have been here. I came to you freely
+and voluntarily. This guarantee is worth all others.” “Would you sign
+with your hand,” pursued the delegate, “and will the chiefs who are
+around you sign with their hands, a document sworn to on the Koran, by
+which you solemnly declare that you will never appear again in Algeria,
+or mix yourselves up, directly or indirectly, in its affairs?” “Such a
+document I would sign with my eyes, if my hands were not sufficient.”
+Abdel Kader was then asked to address a letter to the Provisional
+Government, enclosing a document to that effect. He penned and forwarded
+the following _précis_:—
+
+“Praise be to the one God, whose empire alone is everlasting.
+
+“To the upholders of the Republic which governs France, and who are,
+with regard to it, as the eyes and limbs are to the body.
+
+“Sidi Olivier, your commissioner, has been to see me. He has informed me
+that the French, with one accord, have abolished royalty, and have
+decreed that their country shall henceforward be a Republic.
+
+“I was rejoiced at the news, for I have read in books that such a form
+of government has for its object to root out injustice, and to prevent
+the strong from doing violence to the weak. You are generous men. You
+desire the good of all; and your acts are expected to be dictated by the
+spirit of justice. God has appointed you to be the protectors of the
+unhappy and afflicted. I look to you, therefore, as my natural
+protectors. Remove the veil of grief which has been thrown over me. I
+seek justice at your hands.
+
+“That which I have done not one of you can condemn. I defended my
+country and my religion as long as I could; and I am persuaded that, as
+noble-minded men, you cannot but applaud me. When I was conquered—when
+it was impossible for me any longer to doubt that God, for inscrutable
+reasons, had withdrawn his support from me—I decided to withdraw from
+the world. It was then, when I could have found an asylum with perfect
+ease amongst the Berbers, or the tribes of the Sahara, that I consented
+to place myself in the hands of the French.
+
+“I was convinced that when once they promised to do so, they would
+convey me to the country whither I declared it my wish to go. It was
+with this conviction that I selected France wherein to put my trust; for
+the word of France up to this day has been held to be inviolable. I
+demanded from General Lamoricière that I should be conveyed to
+Alexandria, without touching at Oran, or Algiers, or any port in France.
+
+“To this demand he not only gave a verbal adhesion, but sent me a letter
+solemnly guaranteeing the fulfilment of my wish, signed with his name in
+French, and sealed with his Arabic seal. When this letter reached me,
+believing the word of the French was _one_, I gave myself up into his
+hands. At present this belief is shaken. Confirm me in it by giving me
+my liberty. You have accomplished a work which promises to confer
+happiness on all. Let me not be a solitary exception.
+
+“Often have I said to myself, ‘Had the French taken me prisoner in
+battle, they would have treated me well; for they are brave and
+generous, and know how to hold the balance between the conqueror and the
+conquered.’ Well, I have not been made prisoner. I gave myself up of my
+own free will. Some of you may imagine that, regretting the step I took,
+I still harbour thoughts of returning to Algeria. That can never be. I
+may actually be numbered amongst the dead. My sole wish is to be allowed
+to go to Mecca and Medina, there to worship and adore the all-powerful
+God, until He calls me to Him.
+
+“Receive my salutations.
+
+                                          “ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN.
+
+“9 _Rebia il Oual_, 1264.
+
+“_March_, 1848.”
+
+
+Within this letter was enclosed the document demanded at his hands. It
+ran as follows:—
+
+                       “Praise be to the One God.
+
+“I give you a sacred word which cannot be doubted.
+
+“I declare that I will never henceforward excite troubles against the
+French, either in person, or by letters, or by any other means
+whatsoever.
+
+“I make this oath before God, by Mohammed (praise and salutation be to
+him), by Abraham, Moses, and Jesus Christ; by the Pentateuch, the
+Gospel, and the Koran. I make this oath with my heart as well as with my
+hand and tongue.
+
+“This oath is binding on me and on my companions, one hundred and more
+in number; on those who sign this document, and on those who sign it
+not, being unable to write.
+
+“Salutation from ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN.”
+
+
+Abdel Kader felt assured that these documents, having been officially
+demanded, would prove the immediate prelude to his release. The dawn of
+each successive day was hailed as the harbinger of liberty. At last the
+anxiously expected answer arrived. It was opened with impatience. Its
+substance was, that “the Republic considered itself bound by no
+obligation to Abdel Kader, and that it took him as the previous
+Government had left him—a prisoner.”
+
+The bitter mockery pierced Abdel Kader to the heart. He sunk into the
+deepest despondency. Life was a burden to him, he declared. General
+Daumas approached him with words of consolation. “How can you be
+surprised,” he exclaimed in reply, with mournful earnestness, “that my
+resignation should falter before the greatness of my calamity? My
+family, my followers, are in despair. My aged mother and the women of my
+household weep night and day, and no longer credit the hope I am obliged
+to hold out to them.
+
+“What do I say? Not only the women, but the men, give way to
+lamentations. Their state is such, that I am persuaded if our captivity
+is much prolonged, many will die. And it is I who am the cause of all
+this misery! I alone persisted in surrendering to the French. None of
+them willingly consented to it. You have, indeed, made me a deceiver;
+and now they all reproach me for my confidence in you.
+
+“Is there no tribunal in France especially charged to hear the cries and
+reclamations of the injured? Call together all your Ulemas, and I
+undertake to convince them of my rights. Ah! the Republic is far
+different from that Sultan who, having become deaf, was seen to weep;
+and being asked the cause of his tears, replied, ‘I weep because I can
+no longer hear the complaints of the distressed and afflicted.’”
+
+An order came for the removal of the prisoners to the Château of Pau.
+They arrived there April 20th, 1848. The authorities had been informed
+that English agents were in the neighbourhood seeking to facilitate
+Abdel Kader’s escape. The windows of the château were barred with iron.
+Sentinels paced under them night and day.
+
+Abdel Kader smiled inwardly at all these precautions. The season of
+suspense was over. He felt himself a prisoner for life, and he stoically
+reconciled himself to his fate. A severe self-control disciplined his
+hitherto tempestuous emotions. The magnanimity of his soul resumed its
+wonted ascendancy. In a man possessing the mental energy and resources
+of Abdel Kader, there could be no such feeling as that of solitude. But
+the outer world now pressed on him. He accepted its diversion as a duty
+rather than a pleasure. Crowds from all parts of France knocked at the
+portals of the château. Impelled by mingled feelings of curiosity,
+sympathy, and admiration, statesmen, diplomatists, and warriors, vied
+with each other in doing homage to the august prisoner in his
+misfortunes. Abdel Kader was obliged to hold levees, which sometimes
+lasted for hours.
+
+All were charmed with the loftiness and originality of his observations,
+the delicacy of his allusions, the felicity of his compliments. Above
+all, they were astonished to find that, so far from upbraiding those who
+had been the cause of his severe trial, he seemed to take a pleasure in
+suggesting extenuating circumstances for their conduct, and in
+endeavouring to relieve them of the burden of their treason and their
+shame.
+
+General Daumas was his constant attendant. The general impression
+respecting Abdel Kader may be gathered from the following letter,
+addressed by the General to Monseigneur Dupuch, the Bishop of
+Algiers:—“You are going to see the illustrious prisoner of the Château
+of Pau. Oh! you will certainly not regret your journey. You have known
+Abdel Kader in his prosperity, at a time when, so to speak, all Algeria
+acknowledged his rule. Well, you will find him greater and more
+extraordinary in his adversity than he was in his prosperity. Still, as
+ever, he towers to the height of his position.
+
+“You will find him mild, simple, affectionate, modest, resigned, never
+complaining; excusing his enemies—even those at whose hands he may yet
+have much to suffer—and never permitting evil to be spoken of them in
+his presence. Mussulmans and Christians alike, however justly he might
+complain of them, have found his forgiveness. He throws the conduct of
+the former on the force of circumstances. The safety and honour of the
+flag under which they fought explains that of the latter. In going to
+console such a noble, such an exalted character, you will add another
+work of sanctity to those by which your life is already distinguished.”
+
+The Christian bishop and the Arab chief had long been bound by ties of
+common fellowship in deeds of mercy and compassion; and Abdel Kader
+selected his magnanimous coadjutor in the convention of Sidi Khalifa as
+the depository of his inmost thoughts and reflections. His
+correspondence with the bishop was constant and unremitting.
+
+Latterly he wrote, “As you may have discovered in the mirrors of our
+conversation, I was not born to be a warrior. It seems to me I ought
+never to have been one for a single day. Yet I have borne arms all my
+life. Mysterious are the designs of Providence! It was only by a wholly
+unforeseen concourse of circumstances that I suddenly found myself
+thrown so completely out of the career pointed out to me by my birth, my
+education, and my predilection—a career which, as you well know, I
+ardently long to resume, and to which I never cease praying to God to
+allow me to return, now at the close of my laborious years.”
+
+A record of all the remarks made by Abdel Kader to his numerous visitors
+would require in themselves a volume. Not one left him without carrying
+away and treasuring up some charming efflorescence of his facile and
+comprehensive intellect. A distinguished advocate assured him of the
+sympathies of an influential statesman. “I believe there is a little
+fire of affection for me in his heart,” replied Abdel Kader; “but do not
+let that prevent you from supplying it at times with fuel.”
+
+When grasping simultaneously the hand of a priest and that of an
+officer, he remarked, “I like such visits and such faces, because one
+knows you at the first glance. Yours is the double uniform of devoted
+souls and generous hearts.”
+
+To a numerous company he once said, “I see around me kind and amiable
+people, who are pleased to extol the few good qualities which I possess
+by the favour of Heaven; but I fear there is no real friend here to tell
+me of my defects, which are much more numerous.”
+
+“I am often afraid for you,” said the Archbishop of Tours, “when I think
+of the rigour of our climate.” “It is true your climate is cold, but the
+warmth of your reception makes me forget it,” was the reply of Abdel
+Kader.
+
+On receiving a colonel at the head of his staff, he said, “I thank you,
+colonel, I am deeply touched by your visit, and that of your brave
+companions. You have fought me bravely in Africa, and vanquished me. I
+adore the designs of God. Your present visit shows me that you think
+that I also did my duty; but of that you are the best judges. Again I
+thank you. After all, without alluding to any in particular, there ought
+to be many an officer in the French army who should be grateful to me,
+since but for me many a colonel would be still a captain, and many a
+general a colonel.”
+
+To a statesman he thus generously expressed himself:—“I am not irritated
+at the previous delays in the execution of the convention between me and
+General de Lamoricière. I know well that in the actual position of
+France it would be indiscreet and importunate in me to press the matter
+too strongly. I only beg not to be overlooked too long.”
+
+A beautiful _bouquet_ having been presented to him by some ladies, he
+addressed them in the following strain of Eastern compliment, “In
+looking at this, and inhaling the perfume of so many lovely flowers, I
+seem to see a symbol of your hearts, and to breathe their delicious
+odours.”
+
+The continued succession of visitors at last fatigued him. He begged
+that the hours of reception might be restricted. All beheld the
+serenity, the cheerfulness of his aspect with wonder and astonishment;
+but who could fathom the inward and silent sufferings of that ardent and
+impassioned soul, which had worn itself out to absolute exhaustion
+during fifteen years, in contending bravely for its country’s
+independence; which had only consented to relinquish the sacred struggle
+in order to save the domestic hearth; and which now, far from both home
+and country, saw all those most dear to it gradually sinking under the
+slow and lingering agony of imprisonment and exile?
+
+Still, as the illustrious captive sought to fortify his spirits by those
+religious exercises and consolations which had been his life-long
+strength and support, the waters of affliction rose around him. In vain
+he strove to propitiate Heaven by penitential abnegation, by the most
+rigorous fasts, by the most persevering prayers. A remorseless fate
+seemed as it were commissioned to hold him in its iron grasp. Death was
+almost daily ravishing from him the dearest objects of his love and
+solicitude.
+
+Scarcely were his eyes dried from weeping over such of his faithful
+companions as had expired in his arms, than they were bent with feverish
+anxiety on those whom he still saw before him sinking under the
+complicated ravages of disease, melancholy, and despair. After having
+wept over a son, a daughter, a nephew of the brightest hopes, he
+trembled for his mother and mother-in-law, whose advanced age and
+infirmities seemed more especially to mark them out as the next victims.
+
+But despite all these cruel trials, Abdel Kader maintained an unshaken
+equanimity of look and demeanour. His words never ceased to breathe the
+spirit of heroic resignation. A sympathising voice once reproached him
+for his pious austerities. “Why,” he replied, with a melancholy smile,
+“why grudge me the consolation and hope of thus rendering my prayers
+less unworthy to Him to whom I pour them out from the bottom of my
+heart, and who yet, perhaps, one of these days, may answer them from his
+throne on High?” With Job he seemed to exclaim, “Though He slay me, yet
+will I put my trust in Him.”
+
+Such saint-like simplicity of character, such humility, such almost
+feminine grace and gentleness, combined as they were in Abdel Kader with
+all the lion-like qualities which exalt and dignify the manly nature,
+composed a _beau-ideal_ of moral and physical grandeur, which
+involuntarily extorted enthusiastic reverence and adoration. The
+extraordinary fascination which he exercised on all around him, whether
+resplendent with the flashing of thousands of sabres unsheathed around
+him at his command, or enveloped in a prison’s gloom, is attested by
+instances of devotion and attachment too numerous to be mentioned.
+
+Abdel Kader had left Algeria for ever, but the magic spell of his name
+still remained, and it remains to this day. When some Arab chiefs, after
+the surrender of the Sultan, visited the stables of the French
+authorities at Mostaganem, the last person in the minds of the latter
+was probably Abdel Kader, of whose ominous presence they had been
+happily relieved. To their surprise they saw the Arab chiefs throwing
+themselves frantically on a splendid black stallion, kissing its neck,
+its shoulders, its very feet. It had been Abdel Kader’s charger. “It has
+borne him! it has borne him!” was the repeated outburst of their
+irrepressible feelings, and with difficulty they were torn away.
+
+When Kara Mohammed, Abdel Kader’s equerry, and his inseparable companion
+in all his battles, dangers, and reverses, looked on a porter at the
+gates of the château still wearing the royal livery, he could not help
+exclaiming, “What! your master is in England and you here! We would
+cross mountains and seas to follow our master to the ends of the earth.
+In receiving his benefits we are bound to him for life and death.”
+
+Notwithstanding all Abdel Kader’s efforts and exhortations, his
+followers gave way to a hopeless despondency. These sons of the desert,
+to whom the boundless plains of the Sahara had been a home and the
+distant horizon the only limit, languished and pined away in their novel
+and dreary abode. The iron had entered into their soul.
+
+At last an order came for their release. The bearer of the news expected
+to be hailed with cries of joy and delight. “No, no!” they all with one
+accord exclaimed, “while _he_ is a captive, none of us will separate our
+lot from his!”
+
+“But your master is going to be removed to another fortress,” was the
+answer, “where you will be even more strictly confined than at present.”
+
+“Never mind,” was the general cry. “What signifies? We are willing to
+suffer more if necessary: but quit _him_ in his misfortune we never
+will.”
+
+In the month of June, 1848, General de Lamoricière was appointed
+Minister of War. Abdel Kader now anticipated with certainty the near
+approach of his deliverance. The man who had pledged his word to him was
+in power. In the pressure of public affairs, however, Abdel Kader feared
+he might be overlooked. He hastened, therefore, to address the general a
+letter, in which he solemnly abjured him to vindicate his own honour, as
+well as the national honour of France. Days, weeks, months elapsed, and
+no answer was vouchsafed.
+
+Abdel Kader maintained his usual imperturbability; but his Algerines
+became furious. They formed a conspiracy to fall on their guard, unarmed
+as they were, kill as many as they could, and taste in a desperate self-
+sacrifice the sweetness of revenge. “We thought not of escape,” they
+afterwards avowed. “We wanted to die, that our blood might be an eternal
+shame to France, inasmuch as we should have been slain for reclaiming
+the execution of the promise made to our master.” Abdel Kader, duly
+averted of this mad design, interposed in time to thwart it.
+
+The Minister of War was also apprised of it. He dreaded a catastrophe.
+He sent an officer to the despairing and overtortured captives, with an
+offer of freedom. It was then they returned the noble and sublime answer
+already recorded. On the 2nd November, 1848, they voluntarily followed
+their beloved master to the Château of Amboise.
+
+An order had preceded them. Neither Abdel Kader nor any of his suite was
+to be allowed to have intercourse with persons from without. They were
+neither to be permitted to receive nor to write letters. The privilege
+of freely receiving visitors was to be taken from them. No applicant for
+an interview was to be granted his request without an especial
+permission from the Minister of War.
+
+This order was signed “De Lamoricière!”
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXII.
+
+                               1848-1853.
+
+
+Although the republican Government of France had acquiesced in the
+perpetration of this glaring act of perfidy to Abdel Kader, the
+President of the Republic raised his voice in vindication of the cause
+of right and justice. On the 14th of January, 1849, twenty-four days
+after his election to the presidency, Louis Napoleon convened an
+extraordinary council to take the subject into consideration.
+
+In the warmest terms he pleaded the prisoner’s cause. He insisted on the
+voluntary surrender, the frank and noble reliance on French honour on
+the one hand, and the word pledged and the convention signed on the
+other. Such language, emanating from the heir of the illustrious captive
+of St. Helena, had more than the weight of a protest; it had in some
+respects the sanctity of a reminiscence. Though supported by Bugeaud and
+Changarnier, the President’s views were overruled. The Minister of War,
+General Rulhière, refused to incur the responsibility of sanctioning the
+release of Abdel Kader, and successfully opposed such a step.
+
+Animated by feelings of esteem and sympathy for his fallen adversary,
+Marshal Bugeaud now wrote Abdel Kader a letter suggesting a course
+which, while it would diminish the bitter sense of captivity, would
+assure him an easy and even enviable existence:—
+
+“I would wish you to decide on adopting France as your country, and to
+ask the Government to make you a grant of property, with right of
+descent to your heirs. You would thus have a position equal to that of
+our most influential men, and be able to practise your religion, and
+bring up your children according to your wishes.
+
+“I am aware such a prospect may have little in it to seduce you; but it
+is one which ought to weigh with you, for the future of your children,
+and the fate of the numerous persons who surround you. You see they are
+languishing and dying of _ennui_. Were they employed on a property
+belonging to you, their mode of life, on the contrary, would be pleasant
+and agreeable. The cultivation of the soil would amuse them; they might
+have the diversion of sporting. The pursuits of agriculture would daily
+offer them fresh subjects of interest; and nothing tends more to cheer
+the spirits than the sight of nature elaborated by man’s own exertions.
+
+“Such is the sincere advice I give you, dictated by the feelings of
+extraordinary interest which your misfortunes, and the great qualities
+with which you have been endowed by God, has raised within me.”
+
+Abdel Kader was inflexible. He steadily persisted in refusing to hear of
+any compromise; and he thus replied:—“If all the treasures of the world
+were laid out before me, and it was proposed to put them in the balance
+with my liberty, I would choose my liberty. I demand neither grace nor
+favour. I demand the execution of the engagements which have been made
+with me.
+
+“I demanded, as the condition of my surrender, the word of a Frenchman.
+A French general gave it me without restriction and without conditions.
+Another general, the King’s son, confirmed it. France was thus bound to
+me as I to her. To desire to obliterate the past is now to desire an
+impossibility. I will not give you back your word. I will die with it to
+your eternal disgrace and dishonour; kings and people will then learn,
+from my example, what confidence is to be placed in the word of a
+Frenchman.”
+
+The question of Abdel Kader’s liberation was now to all appearance
+postponed indefinitely. He himself ceased to allude to it. He found
+consolation in his books, his studies, and devotions. His hours were so
+strictly appropriated to their respective duties, that time passed
+lightly. He now occupied himself with literary composition.
+
+Two works, one on the “Unity of the Godhead,” another entitled “Hints
+for the Wise, Instruction for the Ignorant,” were the fruits of his
+mental labours. The first-mentioned work is a collation and, at the same
+time, an able exposition of all the arguments which support and
+elucidate that vital doctrine of the Mohammedan faith. The latter is
+divided into three parts. The first part treats of the advantages of
+learning; the second, of religion and morality; the third, of the art of
+writing and general science.
+
+Although Abdel Kader had permission to take exercise in the park which
+surrounded his prison, he never availed himself of the privilege.
+Indeed, he rarely left his apartment, except to repair to the room where
+his family and suite assembled for prayer. His medical man urged the
+necessity of out-door exercise. “No health,” he replied, “can come to me
+within the bounds of a prison. What I want is the air of liberty; that
+alone can revive me.”
+
+Time creeped on. At last came a change as joyful as it was unexpected.
+Louis Napoleon, disgusted with the party jealousies which thwarted his
+measures, had appealed to the national sentiment. He showed himself to
+France. He visited the provinces. On arriving at Blois, he sent word to
+M. Boissonet, who commanded in the Château of Amboise, situated not far
+distant from that town, that it was his intention to pay Abdel Kader a
+visit.
+
+The ultimate design of the Prince President in making this visit had
+been surmised by the general officers and ministers of state who were
+around him. St. Arnaud and others tendered him their counsels, and
+suggested caution. But the Prince was resolute. The necessity of
+vindicating the national honour, too long tarnished by breach of faith,
+prevailed in his mind over every other consideration. On the 16th of
+October, 1852, the Prince and his suite drove in carriage to the Château
+of Amboise.
+
+On the way he had written out in pencil the following document:—
+
+
+“ABDEL KADER,
+
+    “I am come to announce to you your liberty. You will be conducted to
+    Broussa, in the Sultan’s territory, as soon as the necessary
+    arrangements can be made. The French Government will give you a
+    pension worthy of your former rank.
+
+“For a long time your captivity has caused me real distress. It
+constantly reminded me that the Government which preceded mine had not
+fulfilled its engagements towards an unfortunate enemy; and in my eyes a
+great nation is humiliated, when it so far mistrusts its own power as to
+break its promise. Generosity is always the best counsellor; and I am
+convinced that your residence in Turkey will in nowise affect the
+tranquillity of my possessions in Africa.
+
+“Your religion, as well as mine, inculcates submission to the decree of
+Providence. Now, if France is supreme in Algeria, it is because God has
+so willed it; and the nation will never renounce the conquest. You have
+been the enemy of France, but I nevertheless am ready to do ample
+justice to your courage, your character, and your resignation in
+misfortune. I, consequently, feel it to be a point of honour to put an
+end to your imprisonment, and to entertain a complete reliance on your
+word.”
+
+
+Overpowered with gratitude, Abdel Kader poured forth his heartfelt
+thanks. His aged mother begged to be allowed to see the generous and
+noble-minded ruler, who had shed such joy and consolation through her
+household; and on being presented to Louis Napoleon, covered him with
+her benedictions. After hastily partaking of the “couscoussu,” the
+national dish of Algeria, the Prince departed. As he disappeared in the
+distance, Abdel Kader turned to his followers and said, “Others have
+overthrown and imprisoned me, but Louis Napoleon alone has conquered
+me.”
+
+Abdel Kader was now desirous of doing homage to his deliverer in the
+capital. He obtained permission to go to Paris, and arrived there
+October 28th, 1852. A worthy reception had been arranged for him by
+order of the Prince. A popular demonstration awaited him. Crowds
+thronged the streets through which he passed, and gazed at him with
+mingled pride and curiosity. The feelings of a warlike people were
+gratified by his presence; but respect for the great military renown of
+the Arab chief was the prevailing motive.
+
+The very evening of his arrival, Abdel Kader was invited to visit the
+Grand Opera. He excused himself at first on account of fatigue; but,
+being told that the Prince was to be there, he consented to go. He was
+conducted to the box in which the Prince sat. Abdel Kader stooped to
+kiss hands, but the Prince, amidst loud applause, embraced him. Then,
+placing the ancient enemy of France by his side, he showed him the most
+marked attention.
+
+An invitation was now given to Abdel Kader to visit the Prince President
+at the palace of St. Cloud; and thither, accordingly, he went on the
+30th October, accompanied by his equerry Kara Mohammed, Ben Allal,
+nephew of his celebrated Khalifa Sidi Embarak, Sidi Kudoor, and a staff
+of French officers especially deputed to escort him. He arrived a few
+minutes before the time appointed for his audience. There was a clock in
+the waiting room, which he was told indicated the exact time of day at
+Mecca. Delighted with the incident, he set his own watch by the time of
+the Holy City of his faith. He found it was exactly the hour for
+afternoon prayer; and in the presence of all assembled he knelt down and
+prayed.
+
+Shortly afterwards he was presented to the Prince President, who stood
+surrounded by his great officers of state. The ceremony over, Abdel
+Kader asked permission to say a few words. Leave having been granted, he
+thus expressed himself, not without considerable emotion.
+
+“Highness, I am not accustomed to your usages. Perhaps I am about to
+commit a fault; but I wish to express my sentiments to you, and the
+exalted personages I see around me. Others have made promises which they
+have not fulfilled. Your Highness has fulfilled engagements which you
+had not contracted. Thanks to your generosity, I shall be enabled to go
+and live in a Mussulman country. Words vanish like the winds. Writing is
+durable. I offer your Highness this paper. It contains a written
+promise.”
+
+He then placed the following declaration in the Prince’s hands:—
+
+                       “Praise be to the One God!
+
+“May God ever continue to protect and preserve our lord, Louis Napoleon,
+and guide and direct his judgment.
+
+“He who presents himself to you is Abdel Kader, the son of Mehi-ed-deen.
+I come before your Highness to thank you for your bounties, and to
+gratify myself with a sight of your countenance. You are, in fact,
+dearer to me than any other friend, for you have conferred on me a
+benefit which exceeds my power of thanking you, but which is worthy of
+the nobleness of your character, and the splendour of your position. May
+God glorify you.
+
+“You are of the number of those who neither make useless protestations,
+nor deceive by falsehood. You have had confidence in me. You have not
+listened to those who mistrust me. You have given me liberty; and,
+without having made me any promises, you have fulfilled engagements
+which others made with me without fulfilling them.
+
+“I come then to swear to you, by the covenant and promises of God, and
+by the promises of all the prophets and messengers, that I will never do
+anything contrary to the trust you have reposed in me, and that I will
+religiously keep this my oath never to return to Algeria. When God
+ordered me to arise, I arose. I employed gunpowder to the utmost extent
+of my means and ability. But when he ordered me to cease, I ceased. It
+was then that I abandoned power and surrendered.
+
+“My religion and my honour alike ordain me to keep my oaths and to scorn
+deceit. I am a _shereef_, and no one shall ever accuse me of treachery.
+How, indeed, could that be possible to me after having received such
+great benefits at your hands? A benefit is a golden chain thrown over
+the neck of the noble-minded. I venture to hope that you will deign to
+think of me even when I am far away, and that you will place me on the
+list of your intimate friends; for although I may not equal them in
+their services, I at least equal them in their affection towards you.
+May God increase the love of those who love you, and strike terror into
+the hearts of your enemies.”
+
+To this solemn protestation Louis Napoleon replied,—
+
+“Abdel Kader, I never mistrusted you. I had no need of this written
+paper which you so nobly offer me. I never demanded from you, as you
+know, either promise or oath. You have chosen, nevertheless, to draw up
+and deliver into my hands this document. I accept it. This spontaneous
+avowal of your sentiments and feelings proves to me that I was right in
+placing unlimited confidence in you.”
+
+When the audience was over, Abdel Kader was shown all the apartments of
+the palace, and then taken to see the Prince’s stud. He particularly
+admired a magnificent white Arab horse. “The horse is yours,” said the
+Prince, who was present. “I hope it will make you forget that you have
+been so long without one. You must try it with me in the park to-morrow,
+at a review of cavalry, which I have ordered expressly in your honour.”
+
+Abdel Kader mounted his new steed the following day, and rode by the
+side of the Prince to the review. To a courteous inquiry from the latter
+as to the health of his aged mother, Abdel Kader replied with animation,
+“During my captivity my mother required a staff to bear the weight of
+her body, bent down with years; but since I am free, by your Highness’s
+generosity, she has thrown off the weight of years and walks without
+support.”
+
+Abdel Kader was present at another grand review at Versailles. He dined
+with the Prince twice. All the ministers gave him grand entertainments,
+and he daily received visits from statesmen, generals, and men of
+science. He was mostly touched, however, by the visits of several
+officers who had formerly been his prisoners, and who had come to thank
+him for the kindness and attention they had received at his hands during
+their captivity.
+
+Abdel Kader afterwards visited all the public edifices of Paris. On
+entering the church of the Madeleine, he said to the priest who
+accompanied him, “When I first began my struggle with the French I
+thought they were a people without religion. I found out my mistake. At
+all events, such churches as these would soon convince me of my error.”
+
+He then asked to be taken to the residence of his old friend M. Dupuch,
+Bishop of Algiers. “Having consecrated my first visit to God,” he said,
+“the next should be to the best of his servants.”
+
+Going through the Notre Dame, he stopped to examine all the marvels of
+art and relics which it contains, with an attention which, as coming
+from a Mussulman, surprised the bystanders. Its sculptures, its
+paintings, the mantle worn by Napoleon I. at his coronation, and the
+piece of the true cross given by Baldwin to Louis XII., all successively
+engaged his attention.
+
+On arriving at the Hôtel des Invalides, the first request of Abdel Kader
+was, as usual, to be taken to the church. The temple where the Deity was
+worshipped was invariably the first place to which he directed his
+steps. He viewed with a soldier’s interest and satisfaction the numerous
+flags with which it was adorned. Amongst them were some of his own
+standards. When his eye fell on them he gazed on them for a while in
+silence, and then quietly observed, “Those times are past. I wish to
+forget them. Let us always endeavour to live in the present.”
+
+At the tomb of Napoleon he again paused long. At length he spoke: “All
+that the genius of man and the wealth of the world could possibly do,”
+he said, “would be merely to give this tomb a pale reflex of that
+greatness which filled the world with its glory.” As he turned away he
+remarked, “I have now seen what was mortal of the great captain; but
+where is the place where his name is not still living?”
+
+The hospital particularly struck him. The patients stood up as he passed
+by. One old soldier had even risen with pain and difficulty from his
+bed, as a mark of respect to the great warrior. Abdel Kader stopped
+before him, shook him by the hands, and made him the following
+address:—“How worthy it is of a great people thus to watch over the old
+age of its brave defenders, and to employ the best medical advice for
+the cure of wounds received in the country’s defence! I have seen the
+tomb of Napoleon, and touched his sword; and I should leave this place
+completely happy were it not for the thought that there may be some here
+who have been disabled by me or mine. But I only defended my country;
+and the French, who are just and generous, will pardon me, and perhaps
+admit that I was an open and honest enemy, one not altogether unworthy
+of them.”
+
+The Museum of Artillery and the imperial printing establishment were the
+next objects of his inspection. The autographic press produced under his
+very eyes, to his intense astonishment, a facsimile of the document he
+had presented to the Prince. After minutely watching the process of
+printing, and the marvellous rapidity with which impressions were thrown
+off, he exclaimed, “Yesterday I saw the batteries of war—here I see the
+batteries of thought.”
+
+Abdel Kader had now a parting interview with Louis Napoleon. The Prince
+announced his intention of presenting him with a sword of honour. “But,”
+he added, “I wish it to be worthy of you; and I regret that,
+notwithstanding the diligence of the workmen, I shall not be able to
+give it you before your departure for Broussa.” The blade of this sword,
+which Abdel Kader afterwards received, is of the time of the Abassiades,
+who flourished at the commencement of the Mohammedan era. On it have
+been inscribed the words—“The Sultan Napoleon III. to the Emir Abdel
+Kader, son of Mehi-ed-deen.” The next day Abdel Kader returned to
+Amboise.
+
+On the 21st of November the French people were called upon to elect an
+emperor. Abdel Kader claimed the right of suffrage. By a singular
+coincidence, the day was the anniversary of that on which, twenty years
+before, he had himself been elected Sultan of the Arabs. His claim was
+admitted, and a ballot-box was made expressly for the occasion. In this
+box he deposited his own vote and those of twelve of his suite.
+
+Abdel Kader returned to Paris to be present at the proclamation of the
+empire. He stood amidst the great officers of state and public
+functionaries who assembled at the Tuileries to offer the Emperor their
+congratulations. As soon as the latter perceived him he went up to him,
+shook him by the hands, and said, “You see your vote has brought me good
+luck.” “Sire,” replied Abdel Kader, “my vote is of no value but as it is
+the interpreter of my heart.”
+
+On the 11th of December, Abdel Kader, with his family and suite, left
+Amboise for the East. The same attention and hospitality which had been
+shown to him in Paris awaited him in all the provincial towns through
+which he passed. At Lyons, the Comte de Castellane gave him a splendid
+reception. A banquet was offered to him, and a review of the garrison
+held in his honour. When Abdel Kader approached the lines he was saluted
+with military honours. Delighted with this unexpected mark of respect,
+he turned to the noble marshal who rode by his side, and exclaimed, “The
+Emperor gave me liberty, but you have adorned her with garlands.”
+
+On the 21st of December, Abdel Kader embarked on board the _Labrador_
+for his final destination. The steamer touched at Sicily. He landed,
+and, attended by the governor, made a tour in the interior. He ascended
+Etna. At his departure he addressed a letter of thanks to that officer,
+in which he thus records his impressions of what he had seen:—“We have
+everywhere met with the traces of the various populations who have
+inhabited your island. The sight made us reflect that God is indeed the
+Lord of the universe, and that He gives the land to whom He wills. The
+mountain of fire is truly one of the wonders of the world. On viewing
+from its heights the highly cultivated and thickly populated plains
+which spread out before us, we thought of the Arab poet’s lament on the
+evacuation of Sicily by the Saracens, ‘The recollection of you, O plains
+of Sicily, from the heights of Etna, makes my despair! If my tears were
+not salt, they should make rivers of water for this glorious island. An
+inhabitant of Paradise only is fit to recount the wonders of Sicily.’”
+
+Abdel Kader arrived at Constantinople, January 7, 1853. On landing he
+went directly to the grand mosque of Tophané, filled with joy and
+gratitude at finding himself once more in a temple of the Prophet. The
+French ambassador gave a grand entertainment in his honour, to which the
+principal personages of the Frank society were invited. This act of
+hospitality closed the social relations of Abdel Kader with the
+civilised world. During his passage through it, his worth, his genius,
+his honour, had been magnanimously recognised in one long ovation. He
+was now in a capital where barbarism is harlequinised into a constrained
+semblance of European civilisation.
+
+He visited the Turkish ministers. They received him with ill-feigned
+demonstrations of civility and respect. Policy alone made them outwardly
+courteous. Such is the eradicable arrogance and self-sufficiency of the
+Turks, that they despise all races alike but their own. Utter strangers
+to noble sentiments, and scorning to admit the possibility of there
+being anything in the world more important than themselves, they
+regarded the attentions paid to Abdel Kader (despite his glorious
+struggles for their common faith) with jealousy and even derision. His
+fame oppressed them. An Arab hero was, in their minds, an incongruity,
+an impertinence.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+                               1853-1860.
+
+
+Abdel Kader at length sailed from Constantinople for Broussa. The Pasha
+in that town had been ordered by the Turkish Government to place a
+carriage at his disposal, on landing. “What!” said the Turk, “an Arab
+ride in a carriage! Who ever heard of such a thing? Surely there are
+plenty of camels to be had. Why does not the man hire a camel? Is not a
+camel good enough for him?” The Turk was spared the indignity of
+supplying the Arab with a carriage, on account of the simple fact, that
+it was impossible to traverse the road from the landing-place to Broussa
+in any vehicle whatever; and of this fact, the Sublime Porte, at a
+distance of scarcely twenty miles, was profoundly ignorant.
+
+Fortunately for Abdel Kader, though thrown amongst the Turks, he was in
+no way obliged to be dependent on them. The munificence of Louis
+Napoleon had largely provided for his wants. The Emperor had settled on
+him a pension for life of £4,000 a year. With Abdel Kader’s habits, this
+income was more than a competence, it was superfluity. With such wealth
+he might have lived in princely state, and indulged in ostentation. But
+he was regulated by other principles.
+
+At all times averse to self-gratification, Abdel Kader looked upon this
+liberal allowance as a trust; and he considered that after deducting
+what was absolutely necessary for his own expenses, he was bound to
+expend the remainder for the benefit of others. His income now enabled
+him to provide for the wants of many who had nobly refused to separate
+themselves from his fortunes, and even to extend his generosity to other
+quarters. Reserving barely a half for himself and family, he disbursed
+the residue in salaries to his most needy chiefs and dependents; in
+charities to the poor, presents to the mosques, and other benevolent
+purposes. It is to be remarked that out of his income he had also to
+support his two brothers and their families.
+
+So averse, indeed, was Abdel Kader to vain and trifling expenditure of
+every sort, that the outlay generally devoted by his co-religionists to
+rejoicings and festivities, at one of their most important religious
+rites, was by him directed to charitable ends. On the occasion of the
+circumcision of one of his sons, the people of Broussa were surprised to
+see, in place of the usual costly procession, with all its concomitants
+of pomp and show—the cavalcade, the flags and the music—a vast
+assemblage of the poor congregated in front of his dwelling, and
+receiving from his own hands presents of bread, and clothing, and money.
+Such was, in the eyes of Abdel Kader, the best commemoration of the
+sacred rite.
+
+The building which the Turkish Government had allotted for his residence
+was an old dilapidated khan, in many parts without a roof. With some
+difficulty he contrived to make it habitable. The wildness and gloom of
+the old ruin were terrible. But he bought a small farm in the
+neighbourhood, to which he escaped at times to regale himself with a
+sight of the sun and to breathe the fresh air.
+
+His days were passed, as usual, in the education of his children, in
+readings at the mosque, and in private study and meditation. Still he
+felt himself in a land of strangers. Few understood his language.
+Between the Turks and himself there was no possible sympathy, and there
+never could be. The Ulemas amongst them envied and disliked him for his
+superior learning. The Effendis, in their supercilious pride, scarcely
+vouchsafed to notice him. The public functionaries, gradually recovering
+from their dread of his widely-spread influence, smiled with inward
+repose and satisfaction, not unmingled with contempt, as they
+congratulated each other on the discovery that the great Arab hero was
+after all only a “derweesh.”
+
+Thus time wore on with him for nearly three years. He secretly longed
+for a change in his place of exile; but he was diffident in asking for
+it. At last, the appalling earthquake which, in 1855, nearly laid all
+Broussa in ruins, afforded him a plea for opening the subject, and he
+hastened to avail himself of the circumstance. He obtained permission to
+go to France. He once more saw the Emperor, who graciously acceded to
+all his wishes. It was arranged that for the future his residence should
+be at Damascus.
+
+Whilst Abdel Kader was in Paris, the news of the fall of Sebastopol
+arrived. He was asked to assist at the celebration of the _Te Deum_ in
+Notre Dame; and he was told that the Emperor would be flattered by his
+presence on the occasion.
+
+Though prostrated by a recent severe illness, he consented to go. No
+small sensation was created amongst the vast throng which filled the
+cathedral, as Abdel Kader advanced up to the altar, leaning on the arm
+of a French marshal, and accompanied by other officers of rank. On
+leaving it he was loudly cheered.
+
+The principal aide-de-camp of the Minister of War conducted him over the
+International Exhibition, which on the year of this visit made Paris the
+rendezvous of all the civilised world. After viewing all the varied
+productions which it contained, he paused for a long time in perfect
+astonishment at the marvellous elaborations of machinery which expanded
+in various compartments before his eyes. Then he suddenly exclaimed,
+“Surely this is the temple of reason and intelligence, animated by the
+breath of God.”
+
+After returning to Broussa, where he remained for a few weeks to arrange
+and settle his affairs, he finally embarked on board a French steamer,
+with his family and suite, amounting in all to more than one hundred
+persons, and reached Beyrout, November 24th, 1856; and from thence,
+after a short stay, he proceeded to Damascus.
+
+Midway on his ascent of the Lebanon he was surprised to hear the sound
+of firing, as though a battle were raging close by. Presently he saw the
+heights and slopes covered with large bodies of men, keeping up a well-
+sustained roll of musketry; and then, a compact and splendidly attired
+cavalcade advancing to his encounter. The Druzes had assembled to give
+him a welcome.
+
+Their chiefs, on approaching him, dismounted. He returned the
+compliment. They bowed before him with oriental prostrations, and kissed
+his hand. Then they begged him to do them the honour of reposing amongst
+them, if only for one night. He accepted their invitation, and found
+once more a hospitable Eastern home. His heart expanded. He was once
+more amongst the Arabs.
+
+Long and closely did these mountain warriors question him as to his
+campaigns against the French. “If your fame,” they said, “has so long
+raised our spirits and excited our admiration; if it has so long
+rejoiced our hearts to hear of you, how much more must we rejoice to see
+you!” On his leaving the Lebanon he was escorted by the Druzes to the
+frontiers of their territory. After thanking them for their courtesy and
+attention, Abdel Kader parted from them with the words, “God grant we
+may ever remain one!” and the Druzes replied, “God grant it! May we soon
+meet again.”
+
+Another ovation, and on a larger scale, awaited Abdel Kader at Damascus.
+The whole Mohammedan population—men, women, and children—turned out to
+receive him. For more than a mile outside the gates the road was lined
+on either side with all ranks and degrees of persons dressed in holiday
+attire, who had come forth to feast their eyes by gazing on the renowned
+champion and hero of Islam. Preceded by a detachment of Turkish troops
+and a band of military music, Abdel Kader passed, almost like a
+conqueror, through the crowd, joyfully returning the unintermittent
+salaams with which he was greeted. No such Arab had entered Damascus
+since the days of Saladin.
+
+The Sultan had ordered a serail to be placed at the disposal of Abdel
+Kader. Luckily for him, the khans were all already fully occupied. He
+only took up his residence in the abode prepared for him temporarily,
+and until he could select and purchase a house for himself. The Turkish
+authorities paid no further attention to him. It was quite enough for
+them that they had to endure him. They could not lower his rank and
+position, for an arm was outstretched over him stronger than theirs;
+they could not undermine his influence, for his was an ascendancy that
+defied their malice; they looked upon him as a painful and unavoidable
+anomaly, and succumbed.
+
+Visits and salutations of various kinds soon multiplied upon him. Ben
+Salem, his old and devoted Khalifa, and some hundreds of Algerines, who
+had already obtained permission to settle at Damascus, and who proudly
+swelled his suite as he entered the city, now thronged around him day
+and night, never sufficiently satisfied with the sight of their adored
+Sultan, from whom they had been so long separated. The great Arab
+Effendis offered him the most ardent demonstrations of respect.
+
+But it was to the Ulemas and the lettered classes that Abdel Kader
+became the great centre of attraction. By virtue of his triple warrant,
+as descendant of the Prophet, Ulema, and leader of the Djehad, he was
+entitled to their profoundest reverence. They felt themselves bound to
+him not only by feelings of national sympathy, but of religious duty.
+Their experience of his superior learning, quickly obtained, made them
+anxious to profit by his instructions. They begged him to become their
+teacher. A theological class, consisting of upwards of sixty students,
+was formed. It held its daily sittings in the great mosque, and Abdel
+Kader presided over it with scrupulous punctuality. The Koran and the
+Hadeeth naturally formed the great staple of discussion; but unlike the
+ordinary teachers, whose utmost stretch of mental power only extended to
+worn-out remarks and commentaries on the sacred books, Abdel Kader
+astonished and delighted his disciples by choice quotations from the
+works of Plato and Aristotle, and occasionally even from authors of less
+repute, selected from his own library, which he had been carefully re-
+forming during his residence at Broussa.
+
+The light which thus shed its rays over the literary world of the
+Mohammedans of Damascus, was of course accompanied by its attendant
+shadow of envy and detraction, fostered by offended vanities and
+obscured reputations. Such, on the whole, was the social position of
+Abdel Kader in Damascus, when events unexpectedly occurred to disturb
+for a moment the tranquil tenor of his life.
+
+The Peace of Paris, concluded in 1856, filled the Turks with mingled
+sensations of exultation and mistrust: of exultation, because the peace
+had rescued them from an impending doom, and renewed their lease of
+political existence; of mistrust, because the deed of deliverance was
+saddled with a decree of death. Such a doom, it is true, depended on the
+realization of a theory; but that theory was, to them, of ominous
+importance. By eliciting from them the Hati Homayoom of 1856, the
+Christian Powers simply made the Turks put the knife to their own
+throats.
+
+If that famous “Magna Charta for the Christians of the East,” as it has
+been ridiculously styled by those who know nothing at all about the
+politics of the East, was to be strictly carried into execution, the
+relative position of Turks and Christians, as a body, throughout the
+Turkish empire, would in due course of time be completely reversed. The
+Turks have as yet escaped the stern necessity of giving themselves the
+fatal gash; and their kind and forbearing allies have for the moment
+refrained from pressing the completion of the sacrifice. Nevertheless,
+it behoves the Christian Powers, seriously and conscientiously, to
+reflect that, on the execution or non-execution of the Hati Homayoom,
+depends the gradual enfranchisement, or the continued bondage and
+degradation of Christianity, under Turkish rule.
+
+When the Christian Powers signed a document giving the Turks an
+indefinite tenure of political existence, they virtually ratified the
+bond by which the latter have consigned some of the fairest provinces of
+the earth to irremediable depopulation, barrenness, and sterility. When
+they contented themselves with receiving in exchange an impossible
+programme of amalgamation, progress, and refinement, they not only
+stultified themselves, but betrayed the vital interests of humanity and
+civilisation.
+
+If England, passively consenting to be bound down by traditions which
+took their rise in an age when the East, with all its glorious
+destinies, was universally ignored, chooses still to regard the
+maintenance of the Turkish empire as indispensable to the balance of
+power in Europe—as though, in the event of its abruption or collapse,
+national adjustments would become impossibilities, political
+arrangements fictions, and diplomatic treaties myths—if, with suicidal
+arm, she still persists in helping to lock up those rich, fertile, and
+widely extended regions, which, if that empire were to pass under
+Christian sway, would rapidly be opened up to her commercial enterprise,
+and would increase the demands upon her arts and manufactures ten,
+fifty, and a hundred fold; then let her, by all means, go on worshipping
+her “log of wood,” and lavish in its support her money, her arms, and
+her men, thereby wasting and crippling her actual and prospective
+resources.
+
+But if, awakened at length to a due sense of her dignity and of her best
+interests, to say nothing of her responsibilities to a Higher Power,
+England should resolve to abandon the fruitless and thankless task of
+attempting to mould, tutor, and reform a government which by its very
+nature must ever be a stumbling-block and an offence in the path of
+Eastern advancement—which is the fanatical and persecuting enemy of her
+faith, which laughs at her credulity, practises on her forbearance, and
+is a permanent obstruction to the full development of her wealth and
+greatness—then her policy will lie in a nut-shell. Let her leave the
+Turks to fight their own battles. Howsoever, wheresoever, and by
+whomsoever attacked, let her stand by an undisturbed spectator. Let her
+quietly see the game commenced. She will always be in time to cut in and
+play her own cards.
+
+The Christians of Syria have ever been viewed by the Turks with gloomy
+jealousy. They are called “the Key to the Franks.” The Turks imagine
+them to be ever ready to welcome and aid a Frank invading force;
+furnishing it with supplies, and in various ways initiating it into the
+land’s capabilities and resources. Their increasing population, wealth,
+and prosperity, are to the Turks a perpetual source of exasperation,
+exciting in their breasts feelings of hatred and broodings of revenge.
+
+These Christians had deluded themselves into the idea that the Hati
+Homayoom was to become a reality. They gloried in the prospects of
+civil, military, and political equality with their Mohammedan fellow-
+subjects which it held out to them. They craved to be permitted to enter
+the service of the State, and offered to serve in the army. They were
+told their services were not wanted. At the same time the information
+was vouchsafed to them that they were to be subjected to a yearly fine
+of ten shillings per head, in lieu of military service.
+
+“What!”—they argued amongst themselves—“is this all that our friends and
+protectors, the great Christian Powers, have been able to procure from
+the Turks by the promulgation of the Hati Homayoom? Could they do no
+more than achieve mockery and derision for themselves, and for us an
+additional mark of inferiority and humiliation?” They could not believe
+it. The mistake, they were sure, would be rectified. They protested, and
+refused to pay the tax.
+
+The Christians of the Lebanon soon after observed, with just alarm, the
+menacing attitude displayed towards them by the Druzes. They knew at
+once that the Turks were going to play their old game of letting loose
+these tribes against them. What had they to do? They armed themselves to
+the teeth; and they were right. The Turco-Druze compact was already
+completed. Such was the aspect of affairs between the Turks and the
+Rayahs in Syria in 1859.
+
+The Turkish authorities in that province had duly reported the
+refractory conduct of the Christians, and the general tone of assumption
+evinced by them, to their superiors in Constantinople. In the
+instructions they received, they were emphatically told that the
+Christians must be “corrected.” The expression seems trivial, but those
+to whom it was addressed perfectly well understood its cabalistic
+meaning.
+
+As a Turkish sultan was once entering his kiosk, a handsome, comely-
+looking youth, the son of one of his viziers, attracted his notice. He
+approached him, patted him on the cheek, and stroked his chin. The lad,
+well knowing the feelings which prompted such a mark of attention,
+turned away from the caress with offensive abruptness. The Sultan looked
+towards the father, and sternly said, “Your son must be corrected.” That
+same day the lad’s head was cut off. He had been “corrected.” In Eastern
+phraseology this is called “imperial correction.”
+
+In May, 1860, the civil war between the Druzes and Christians, so
+sedulously fostered and excited by the Turks, broke out. In little more
+than a month the Lebanon became a vast scene of slaughter and
+conflagration. In an evil hour the Christians, despite their better
+convictions, had allowed themselves to be deceived by the solemn
+protestations of Turkish pashas and colonels, who called upon God to
+witness that they were about to act as mediators.
+
+They repaired by hundreds to the different Turkish garrisons planted
+over the mountain, hourly expecting the signal for peace. There, after
+having been politely requested to give up their arms, as a mark of
+confidence, they were crammed into open courts, or penned up in small
+chambers, according to the nature of the locality, and assured they were
+in perfect safety. And then, after a time, the Druzes and the Turkish
+troops fell on them, and massacred them all. They had been “corrected.”
+
+The Christians of Damascus were the next to be “corrected.” Abdel Kader,
+entirely ignorant of the great Turco-Druze plot, had sent messages to
+some of his friends among the Druze Sheiks, at the commencement of the
+civil war in the Lebanon, calling upon them to exercise forbearance and
+moderation. He soon had occasion to turn his attention to events nearer
+home. Rumours were daily becoming more and more rife that the
+Mohammedans of the Pashalick of Damascus intended to rise on the
+Christians.
+
+Abdel Kader was at first incredulous. But his Algerines came round him
+day by day, repeating to him the fearful gossip of the town. Many of
+them, who had been tampered with, were asked to join in the scheme. He
+now went to the Ulemas, and begged them to use their influence with the
+people to allay the feeling, and avert such a frightful catastrophe. He
+wrote urgent letters in the same sense to the Ulemas of Homs and Hamah.
+
+Having received information that some straggling parties of the Druzes
+were extending their ravages towards Damascus, he hastened to send the
+following collective letter to all their leading Sheiks:—
+
+ “TO THE DRUZE SHEIKS IN MOUNT LEBANON, AND IN THE PLAINS AND MOUNTAINS
+                             OF THE HOURAN.
+
+“We continually invoke for you eternal happiness, and continuation of
+prosperity.
+
+“You are aware of our friendship for you, and our goodwill towards all
+the servants of God. Hearken to what we say to you, and accept and be
+advised by our admonition. The Turkish Government, and all men, know
+your old enmity towards the Christians of Mount Lebanon, and you may
+imagine that the Government will not hold you wholly responsible for the
+war which is now raging between you and them. The Government may accept
+your excuses.
+
+“But if you make offensive movements against a place with the
+inhabitants of which you have never before been at enmity, we fear such
+conduct would be the cause of a serious rupture between you and the
+Government. You know how anxious we are for your welfare and happiness,
+and that of all your countrymen at large. The wise, before taking a
+step, calculate the consequences.
+
+“Some of your horsemen have already been pillaging in the environs of
+Damascus. Such proceedings are unworthy of a community distinguished for
+its good sense and wise policy. We repeat it, we are most anxious for
+your welfare, and are hurt at whatever reflects on your name.
+
+                                          “ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN.
+
+“_May_, 1860.”
+
+
+Abdel Kader next proceeded to Achmet Pasha, the Governor, and stated his
+apprehensions. The Pasha told him that there was no occasion to be
+alarmed, and that all reports were mere idle rumours. A second and third
+time he went to the Governor and renewed his representations, but with
+little or no effect. At last the Pasha allowed a few arms to be
+distributed amongst Abdel Kader’s followers, but without instructions
+under what circumstances they were to be used.
+
+On the 9th of July, in the forenoon, Abdel Kader’s Algerines came
+running in, in breathless haste, and told him the town had risen.
+Without a moment’s delay he sallied forth, ordering his attendants to
+follow him. After a few turnings he met a furious mob in full career
+towards the Christian quarter. He drew up with his men in the centre of
+the street. The mob stopped short. A pause ensued. Abdel Kader harangued
+the rioters, expostulated with them, and endeavoured to convince them of
+the awfulness of the crime which they were about to commit. He implored
+them to desist and return.
+
+“What!” they shouted, “you, the great slayer of Christians, are you come
+out to prevent us from slaying them in our turn? Away!”
+
+“If I slew Christians,” he shouted in reply, “it was in accordance with
+our law—Christians who had declared war against me, and were arrayed in
+arms against our faith.”
+
+“Away, away!” retorted the mobs, and the rioters rushed by. Within three
+hours the Christian quarter was a waving sheet of fire. The hot blast,
+fraught with the moans of the tortured and the shrieks of the defiled,
+rolled over the city like a gust from hell.
+
+The Pasha had some days before made a pretence of affording protection
+to the Christians by stationing Turkish troops in their quarter. He now
+sent his soldiers orders to withdraw. They piled arms and plundered. But
+Abdel Kader hurried to the rescue. Altogether about 1,000 of his
+Algerines had by this time gathered round him. He patrolled the flaming
+streets. His men went from house to house, entering and crying out,
+“Christians, come forth! Do not fear us—we are Abdel Kader’s men, and
+are here to save you! Come forth, come forth!”
+
+At first, no voices responded. The unfortunate victims dreaded fresh
+treachery. By degrees, however, after repeated and earnest assurances,
+they gained confidence. Men, women, and children issued forth trembling
+and crawling from their hiding-places. They emerged from wells, from
+sinks, from gutters. As fast as they could be collected together, they
+were hurried off to Abdel Kader’s abode, enclosed in long oblong
+squares, formed by the Algerines to protect them on the way from insult
+and attack.
+
+Abdel Kader, who had more than once narrowly escaped suffocation, now
+returned to his house. He found it filled to overflowing. He induced his
+immediate neighbours to vacate their abodes in order to give shelter to
+the unhappy fugitives. But the tide kept pouring in, and still more
+space was wanted. As a last resource, he proposed to the Christians to
+send them for protection to the Turkish castle. But at this proposition
+a wild cry arose from all. The poor creatures fell on their knees, and
+with frantic gestures and agonising accents exclaimed, “O Abdel Kader,
+for God’s sake do not send us to the Turks! By your mother! by your
+wife! by your children! O Abdel Kader, save us from the Turks!”
+
+Abdel Kader endeavoured to reassure the supplicants and allay their
+fears. He pledged himself for their safety, and offered to accompany
+them to the citadel himself. Not a hair of their heads should be
+touched, he said, while he was alive. With sad misgivings and sinking
+hearts, the Christians at length consented to go. Abdel Kader headed the
+sad procession in person. His Algerines marched on its flanks and in its
+rear. It moved on rapidly. An unwonted gloom pervaded the great city.
+The bazaars were all deserted, and reverberated to the escort’s tramp in
+sad funereal echoes. The castle, which lay nearly a mile off, was
+reached a little before sunset, and Abdel Kader gave over his charge.
+The Turks looked at him askance.
+
+For several days his Algerines were constantly engaged in escorting
+fugitive Christians, in batches of twenty, fifty, and a hundred, to the
+same destination. As they were being hurried along, all exclaimed alike,
+“Do not leave us to the mercy of the Turks! Come back to us! Stay with
+us! The Turks will yet murder us!” Nor indeed were their fears
+unfounded.
+
+On the third day, when the large quadrangle within the castle was
+crowded with the Christians, to the amount of some thousands, of all
+ranks, ages, and sexes, the Turks coolly divided the males from the
+females into two large bodies. The one was intended for massacre; the
+other was reserved for violation. They only awaited the arrival of the
+Druzes, whom they were hourly and anxiously expecting, to co-operate
+with them in the fiendish work.
+
+But here, also, Abdel Kader had marred and circumvented their diabolical
+designs. He had heard of the approach of the Druzes. He had ridden out
+to meet them. He had fallen in with them at the village of Ashrafeeiy,
+in the outskirts of the city. There he had parleyed with their Sheiks,
+had reasoned with them, and by his personal influence, and his eloquent
+and persuasive arguments, had succeeded in turning them aside from their
+bloody errand.
+
+For ten days he continued engaged in his arduous task. Once the mob
+approached his house, and demanded with frantic yells that the
+Christians within it should be delivered up to them. He drew his sword,
+and, accompanied by a strong body of his followers, at once went out to
+confront the yelling crowd. “Wretches!” he exclaimed, “is this the way
+you honour the Prophet? May his curse be upon you! Shame on you, shame!
+You will yet live to repent. You think you may do as you like with the
+Christians; but the day of retribution will come. The Franks will yet
+turn your mosques into churches. Not a Christian will I give up. They
+are my brothers. Stand back, or I give my men the order to fire.” The
+mob withdrew.
+
+When he returned to his post it was to keep anxious watch by day, and
+sleepless vigil by night. He had a rug spread at his entrance door, and
+on this hard bed he snatched intervals of troubled rest. He never once
+retired. He felt that his personal presence was absolutely indispensable
+for the safety of all. The stream of fugitives was incessant. Every
+moment Abdel Kader was called up to give orders to form escorts, or to
+issue provisions to the thousands congregated under his roof.
+
+The European Consuls, leaving their burning consulates behind them, had
+fled to him with their families on the first day. The British Consul
+alone, living in the Mohammedan quarter, had thought himself secure.
+But, as an additional security, he had sent to the Pasha, and requested
+that Turkish troops might be stationed at his house. A detachment of
+soldiers was accordingly dispatched for his protection.
+
+Shortly after their arrival one of his cawasses came and told him to
+beware. He had overheard the conversation of the Turkish soldiers. They
+were talking of breaking into the consulate, and murdering every one
+within their reach. After a slight deliberation, it was decided that
+Abdel Kader was the only resource now left. To Abdel Kader, accordingly,
+a messenger was instantly sent, craving immediate assistance. To the
+surprise and astonishment of the Turkish soldiers, seventeen Algerines
+suddenly appeared, and seemed to supersede them in their functions. The
+Turks were overawed. Their bloody plot was frustrated; and the safety of
+the British Consul was secured. The interposition had been indeed both
+timely and providential. In a few minutes more the Consul with his staff
+and household would have been _massacred by their Turkish guard!_
+
+Though the great mass of the Christians had been forwarded to the
+castle, the Consuls and many of the wealthier classes remained partakers
+of Abdel Kader’s hospitality for more than a month. By degrees, however,
+this assemblage broke up, moving off in successive parties, always
+escorted by Algerines, to Beyrout.
+
+Abdel Kader was at length enabled to repose. He had rescued 15,000 souls
+belonging to the Eastern churches from death, and worse than death, by
+his fearless courage, his unwearied activity, and his catholic-minded
+zeal. All the representatives of the Christian powers then residing in
+Damascus, without one single exception, had owed their lives to him.
+Strange and unparalleled destiny! An Arab had thrown his guardian ægis
+over the outraged majesty of Europe. A descendant of the Prophet had
+sheltered and protected the Spouse of Christ.
+
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+                               1860-1864.
+
+
+The Turkish authorities at Damascus, acting under the orders of Fuad
+Pasha, marked their sense of Abdel Kader’s humane intervention in behalf
+of the Christians, by sending him an order that his Algerines should
+deliver up their arms. Abdel Kader resented the order as an insult, and
+protested. “Never,” was his reply to this injunction, “will I submit to
+such an order, until Fuad Pasha has formally declared that I and my men
+have made a bad use of our weapons. In that case I will leave him to
+vindicate his conduct as best he can, with the European powers who have
+applauded my course of action.”
+
+Being powerfully supported from an influential quarter, Abdel Kader
+succeeded in averting the indignity which the Turks had deliberately and
+maliciously meditated against him. The spirit which had dictated Fuad
+Pasha, and the Turkish authorities in general, then became apparent. A
+general disarmament of the inhabitants of Damascus had been commenced,
+and about six hundred muskets had already been collected, when the
+above-mentioned order was sent to Abdel Kader. When they failed to
+obtain the arms of Abdel Kader and his suite, the Turks at once
+discontinued the general disarmament. The measure had evidently only
+been a pretext for the infliction of a humiliation on the defender of
+the Christians.
+
+The Christian powers covered Abdel Kader with the most distinguished
+marks of their gratitude and admiration. Letters, presents, and orders
+came from every side. France sent the Grand Cordon of the Legion of
+Honour; Russia, the Grand Cross of the White Eagle; Prussia, the Grand
+Cross of the Black Eagle; Greece, the Grand Cross of the Saviour;
+Turkey, the Medjidié of the 1st class. England sent a double-barreled
+gun, beautifully inlaid with gold; America, a brace of pistols similarly
+inlaid. The Order of Freemasons in France sent him a magnificent star.
+All these gifts and decorations were accompanied by letters of thanks.
+
+But not only in the Christian world had the conduct of Abdel Kader, in
+the midst of the hideous scenes enacted through the fell working of
+Turkish fanaticism, created a deep sensation and elicited tributes of
+praise and general rejoicing. In the Mohammedan world also, a profound
+feeling of astonishment and abhorrence had been excited at the
+vindictive daring, the blind fatuity, and the sanguinary anti-Christian
+malevolence of a Mohammedan power which, while pretending to be amenable
+to the higher instincts of European civilisation, could thus stimulate
+to deeds of atrocity, gratuitously barbarous, and not even sanctioned or
+countenanced by the most ferocious and exaggerated doctrines of the
+Koran itself.
+
+This feeling found its most eloquent exponent in the illustrious hero of
+the Caucasus. Schamyl, from his place of exile in Russia, addressed the
+following letter to Abdel Kader:—
+
+“To him who has made himself celebrated amongst all classes, high and
+low; who by his numerous and precious qualities stands distinguished
+from the rest of men; who put out the fire of discord before it had time
+to extend; who rooted up the tree of enmity, the fruit of which is, as
+it were, a head of Satan. Praise be to God, that He has clothed His
+servant with strength and faith! We would speak of the true and sincere
+friend, Abdel Kader the just. Salutation to you! May the palm tree of
+merit and honour be ever fruitful in your person!
+
+“Be it known to you, when my ear was struck with that which is hateful
+to the sense of hearing, and repulsive to human nature—I allude to the
+events lately occurring in Damascus, between the Mussulmans and the
+Christians, in which the former displayed a conduct unworthy of the
+professors of Islamism, and which can only lead to every kind of
+excess—a film spread over my soul, and my face, usually tranquil and
+serene, became covered with the shade of sadness. I cried out to myself,
+‘Evil is on the earth and on the sea, by reason of man’s wickedness and
+perversity.’
+
+“I was astonished at the blindness of the functionaries who have plunged
+into such excesses, forgetful of the words of the Prophet, peace be upon
+him:—‘_Whoever shall be unjust towards a tributary (a Christian), who
+shall do him a wrong, who shall lay on him any charge beyond his means,
+and finally, who shall deprive him of anything without his own consent,
+it is I who will be his accuser in the day of judgment_.’ Oh, the
+sublime words! But when I was informed that you had covered the
+tributaries with the wings of kindness and compassion; that you had
+opposed yourself to the men who do contrary to the will of the Most High
+God, and that you had conquered the palm of victory in the amphitheatre
+of glory—a success which you have richly merited—I praised you, as the
+Most High God will praise you in that day, when fortune and children
+will avail but little. Truly, you have realised the word of the great
+Apostle whom the Most High God sent as a mark of pity for his creatures,
+and you have opposed a barrier to those who rejected his great example.
+May God preserve us from those who transgress His laws!
+
+“Impatient to testify the admiration I feel for your conduct, I hasten
+to address you this letter, as a drop out of the reservoir of my
+sympathies.
+
+“The unfortunate, who through the working of the decrees of the Great
+Master, has fallen into the hands of the infidels.
+
+                                                   “SCHAMYL, the Exile.”
+
+
+To this sympathetic effusion Abdel Kader thus replied:—
+
+
+“Praise be to God, the Master of worlds! May God be propitious to our
+lord Mohammed and all his brother prophets and apostles.
+
+“This comes from him who has great need of his all-abundant mercies,
+Abdel Kader, son of Mehi-ed-deen, il Hassany, and is addressed to his
+brother and friend in God, the glorious Schamyl. May God be favourable
+to us and you, at home and abroad! May the peace and grace of God rest
+ever upon you!
+
+“We have received your honourable letter, and your charming words have
+rejoiced our heart. That which you have heard about us, and which has
+given you such satisfaction, respecting our defence of the tributaries
+and the protection we gave them, both as regards their persons and their
+goods, according to our zeal and our means—all that, as you well know,
+is nothing but the fulfilment of the principles of our sacred law and of
+the dictates of humanity. Indeed, our law is the confirmation of all the
+best qualities, and embraces all virtues as a collar encircles the neck.
+
+“Vice is condemned in all religions; and to allow oneself to be carried
+away by it is like taking a poisonous aliment into the stomach.
+Nevertheless, as the poet has said, ‘Man, in certain moments of trial,
+has a bandage over his eyes, so that he calls that desirable which is
+just the reverse.’ Truly it is a case to say, ‘To God we belong and to
+Him we return.’ When we think how few men of real religion there are,
+how small the number of defenders and champions of the truth—when one
+sees ignorant persons imagining that the principle of Islamism is
+hardness, severity, extravagance, and barbarity—it is time to repeat
+these words, ‘Patience is lovely; in God let us trust.’
+
+“We were informed, some time ago, that you had arrived near the Emperor
+of Russia; and that this prince, treating you in a manner worthy of you,
+had loaded you with civilities and covered you with honour. We were
+told, moreover, that you had asked for permission to visit the holy
+cities (Mecca and Medina); and we pray God that he may prosper your
+demand and accomplish your wishes.
+
+“Indeed, the Emperor of Russia is one of the most distinguished of
+sovereigns. He is one of those who desire to see the record of their
+exalted deeds preserved in books. We hope, therefore, that his
+magnanimity will grant you your wishes without difficulty. It is thus
+that the Sultan Napoleon III. has acted towards us. He has performed
+things for us which could never have entered into the mind of man. After
+all, it is in God alone that we must place our hope. He only has a right
+to our homage.
+
+                              “ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN IL HASSANY.”
+
+
+The tranquil current of Abdel Kader’s life, momentarily ruffled, but
+scarcely interrupted, by the terrific episode which had broken in on his
+retirement, now resumed its wonted course. The simplicity, the
+scrupulous regularity, the exact and unvarying conscientiousness which
+guide and influence his actions, operate upon the thread of his
+existence with all the harmony of fixed laws.
+
+He rises two hours before daybreak, and is engaged in prayer and
+religious meditation till sunrise, when he goes to the mosque. After
+spending half an hour there in public devotions, he returns to his
+house, snatches a hurried meal, and then studies in his library till
+mid-day. The muezzin’s call now summons him again to the mosque, where
+his class is already assembled, awaiting his arrival. He takes his seat,
+opens the book fixed upon for discussion, and reads aloud, constantly
+interrupted by demands for those explanations which unlock the varied
+and accumulated stores of his troubled years of laborious study,
+investigation, and research. The sitting lasts for three hours.
+
+Afternoon prayer finished, Abdel Kader returns home and spends an hour
+amongst his children—his eight sons—examining the progress they are
+making in their studies. Then he dines. At sunset he is again in the
+mosque, and instructs his class for one hour and a half. His professor’s
+duties for the day are now over. A couple of hours are still on hand;
+they are spent in his library. He then retires to rest.
+
+Abdel Kader is punctual in his charities. Every Friday the street
+leading to his house may be seen filled with the poor, who are gathered
+together for their appointed distribution of bread. The poor who die (if
+utterly without means), not merely in his own quarter, but throughout
+Damascus, are buried at his expense. Every case of destitution has only
+to be brought to his notice to be instantly relieved. He lays out
+regularly more than £20 a month in charitable donations.
+
+Abdel Kader had long cherished in his heart the hope and desire of being
+able, sooner or later, to complete his round of religious duties by a
+crowning act of devotion. In the eyes of the devout Mussulman, no
+earthly rank or dignity is to be compared to that which carries with it
+the glorious distinction of entitling its bearer to be called “the
+Fellow of the Prophet.”
+
+To obtain this signal privilege, it is necessary to dwell continuously
+at Mecca or Medina for two years, or, at all events, to remain in the
+holy cities until two successive pilgrimages (Hadj) have arrived at and
+departed from those places. Abdel Kader now obtained the permission of
+his friend and benefactor, the Emperor Napoleon III., to prosecute his
+pious purpose. Being asked one day how he could bear to separate
+himself, at his age, for so long a time from his family, he replied, “It
+is true my family is dear to me, but God is dearer.”
+
+He left Damascus in January, 1863; and, after staying a few weeks in
+Cairo, embarked for Djedda, and in due time reached Mecca. There he was
+received by the great body of Ulemas and Imams, who make that holy city
+their constant place of residence, with the most marked respect and
+consideration. The Shereef of Mecca ordered a couple of rooms, within
+the precincts of the Haram, to be placed at his disposal. He was
+overwhelmed by visitors. After ten days, he intimated that his period of
+reception was over. He begged to be left in undisturbed privacy and
+seclusion.
+
+For the next twelve months he never quitted his hermit’s cell, except to
+go to the great mosque. His whole time was given up to sacred studies,
+meditation, and prayer. The fervour of his religious abstraction was
+stimulated by the most rigorous self-denial. He only allowed himself
+four hours’ sleep. He broke his fast but once in twenty-four hours, and
+then only to eat bread and olives. The severity and long continuance of
+this bodily and mental discipline told even on his iron frame. In the
+spring of 1864 he indulged in a short relaxation by going to Taif, a
+town delightfully situated in a mountainous region about fourteen hours
+from Mecca, and surrounded with flowing streams and delicious gardens.
+
+Returning thence to Djedda he took ship, and in five days reached the
+port of Reis, six days’ distance by land from Medina. The whole of the
+intervening districts between Mecca and Medina, spreading far into the
+interior, and down to the sea-coasts, are infested by a race of Arabs
+called the Arabs Hurb. These demi-savages are hideous to behold. They
+wear little or no clothing. Their skins resemble burnt and crackling
+parchment. Their thick, shaggy, black hair floats wildly over their
+shoulders. They have few horses; but they themselves run like ostriches.
+
+These Arab tribes are at perpetual war with the Turks. No caravan dares
+to cross these dangerous tracts without being strongly guarded. This
+duty devolves on Turkish troops, who run the gauntlet with hearts
+failing them for fear. They are generally attacked, mostly defeated,
+sometimes destroyed, the caravan reaching its destination naked and
+penniless.
+
+Amongst the Arabs Hurb the name of Abdel Kader had for years been a
+household word. On hearing of his arrival at Reis, their Sheiks sent him
+a deputation requesting permission for them to be allowed to come and
+offer him their salutations. He replied, that as they were at open
+enmity with the Turkish Government, and as some Turkish officials were
+accompanying him on his proposed journey inward, he begged to be spared
+the distinction they would have offered him. They acknowledged the
+delicacy of the dilemma, and did not persist. For once, and solely for
+the sake of Abdel Kader, they allowed the caravan from Reis to reach
+Medina without the slightest molestation. The return caravan was
+attacked and plundered, and the Turkish guard cut to pieces.
+
+Abdel Kader remained at Medina for four months, resuming, near the
+Prophet’s tomb, the course of life he had practised while at Mecca. The
+guardian of the sanctuary repeatedly invited him to examine all the
+precious treasures it contained—the votive offerings of diamonds and
+pearls and precious stones, and gold and silver, sent by kings, princes,
+potentates, and grandees, from all parts of the Mohammedan world. But
+Abdel Kader refused even to look at the treasures. He regarded them as a
+wasteful and useless prodigality, and a sinful misapplication of wealth,
+which might have been far better employed in works of general charity.
+
+When the time for his departure arrived, the Arabs Hurb again pressed on
+him their services, and offered to escort him in perfect safety through
+the overland route of fourteen days to Mecca. He would have availed
+himself of their offer had not two Ulemas who were his travelling
+companions dreaded the fatigues of the journey; and not wishing to
+separate himself from his fellow-travellers, he was again obliged to
+decline these flattering marks of personal devotion and attachment. He
+returned to Reis, and reached Mecca by the way he had come, in time to
+be present at the rites and solemnities of the Beiram, for the second
+time. His object and his vow were thus accomplished. He now turned his
+face homewards, and in June, 1864, arrived at Alexandria.
+
+Abdel Kader had just succeeded in achieving, after much toil and self-
+abnegation, the highest distinction to be attained in a religious
+profession pre-eminently dogmatic and exclusive. By a singular contrast,
+he now claimed to wear the badge of a society based and established on
+the principle of universal brotherhood. The Masonic body in Alexandria
+hastened to welcome the illustrious neophyte. The Lodge of the Pyramids
+was especially convoked for the occasion in the evening of the 18th of
+June. Abdel Kader was initiated into the mysteries; and to the privilege
+of being the “Fellow of the Prophet,” added the more time-honoured
+privilege of being “a free and accepted Mason.”
+
+After staying a short time at Alexandria, in order to complete the
+requisite documents and arrange the necessary details which were to
+enable him to take possession of a large landed property, presented to
+him by the Viceroy of Egypt, he left for Syria, and reached Damascus
+towards the end of July, 1864. There, for the present, we leave this
+“great and complete man,” pursuing that career which he considers to
+have been marked out for him by destiny. Of this career he himself has
+said, “It was pointed out to me by my birth, my education, and my
+predilection. It is one which I ardently long to resume, and to which I
+never cease praying to God to allow me to return, now at the close of my
+laborious years.”
+
+Though such, however, was the career which Abdel Kader had imagined for
+himself, an over-ruling Providence had ordained it otherwise. His
+career, as it stands before the public, is without a counterpart in the
+annals of great and extraordinary men, for its sudden and unexpected
+rise, for the strange variety of its phases, and the unlooked-for stages
+of its development. Never was there a career more completely typical of
+the riddle of human existence—never one which more completely
+illustrated the truth of the wise man’s saying—“A man’s goings are of
+the Lord; how can a man then understand his way?”
+
+That career may now be recapitulated in a few brief sentences. A young
+Mohammedan Arab had devoted himself to the seclusion and religious
+exercises of the cloister. A crisis in his country’s fate called him
+reluctantly from his retreat to the head of affairs. The seeds of his
+latent genius burst forth at once into full-blown maturity. He shone
+with unrivalled splendour as the preacher and leader of a Holy War
+against the encroachments of a Christian power. He kept the armies of
+this great power at bay for fifteen years, with forces immeasurably
+inferior, and only made available by the fiery enthusiasm with which he
+knew how to inspire them. Twice he compelled his enemy to grant him
+advantageous terms of peace, and to salute him with titles of
+sovereignty.
+
+All the while, he was moulding and forming an internal administration,
+which, rapidly superseding the wildest anarchy and confusion, presented
+a pattern of order, regularity, and justice. He laid the foundation of a
+Mohammedan empire. In his own person he offered to his subjects a model
+of bravery, fortitude, activity, perseverance, piety, and zeal. He
+yielded at length to overwhelming numbers. He surrendered to his
+Christian foes, on the express condition that they should conduct him,
+in the full enjoyment of complete and unrestricted freedom, to some
+other Moslem soil.
+
+His enemies treacherously conveyed him to their own land. Their
+Government threw him into hopeless and apparently life-long captivity. A
+prince whose genius, like his own, had sustained him with unfailing
+trust and confidence through adverse fortunes, overthrew that Government
+and arrived at supreme power. The magnanimity of that prince restored
+him to liberty.
+
+Then, by a wonderful turn in the wheel of fortune, this brilliant and
+uncompromising champion of Islamism was seen to take a marked and
+foremost place in the Christian world. He became a member of many of its
+literary and scientific bodies, corresponded on terms of equality and
+friendship with its most illustrious potentates; and finally, near the
+close of his ostensible career, saw his breast covered with the martial
+emblems of that very faith which, at its commencement, he had drawn his
+sword to resist and to defy! Truly, such a career is without its
+parallel in history.
+
+Those who have perused the preceding pages will have found many grounds
+for salutary reflection. In the example there laid before them they will
+have been profitably reminded of the utter short-sightedness and
+uncertainty of all human calculations. They will, at the same time, have
+been instructed, edified, and encouraged, by the striking proof which it
+affords that the only really strengthening and peace-giving motives of
+human action are, a practical and persevering sense of duty, and a
+humble, cheerful, submissive, and unswerving trust in God.
+
+
+                                THE END.
+
+                               * * * * *
+              VIRTUE AND CO., PRINTERS. CITY-ROAD, LONDON.
+
+
+
+
+FOOTNOTES:
+
+
+[Footnote 1:
+
+  “Time hath, my lord, a wallet at his back,
+
+   Wherein he puts alms for oblivion.”
+
+                          TROILUS AND CRESSIDA.]
+
+[Footnote 2: Mohammed.]
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's note:
+
+
+  pg 5 Changed: "at the the same time" to: "at the same time"
+
+  pg 47 Changed: "but, a a Mussulman, I looked" to: "as a Mussulman"
+
+  pg 50, pg 84, pg 160, pg 167 Changed: "Milond-ibn-Arasch" or
+  "Milond ibn Arasch" to: "Miloud"
+
+  pg 127 Changed: "‘with animation, ‘I hope yet to restore" to:
+  "‘with animation, I hope yet to restore"
+
+  pg 134 Changed: "the last were Abon Hamadi" to: "Abou"
+
+  pg 142 Changed: "Kader adjured them them to rally" to: "Kader adjured
+  them to rally"
+
+  pg 148 Changed: "plates of the national dish—the _conscoussia_" to:
+  "_couscoussia_"
+
+  pg 285 Changed: "abjured him to vindidate" to: "vindicate"
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 77174 ***
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+<div style='text-align:center'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 77174 ***</div>
+<div class="margins">
+<div class="page">
+<p class="center large">LIFE OF ABDEL KADER.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="titlepage">
+<div class="figcenterplate iw1">
+<figure id="fronti"><img src='images/fronti.jpg' alt=''>
+</figure>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h1><span class="med">THE</span><br>
+<span class="xxlarge">LIFE OF ABDEL KADER,</span><br>
+<span class="gothic">Ex-Sultan of the Arabs of Algeria;</span>
+</h1>
+
+<p class="center med spaced15">WRITTEN FROM HIS OWN DICTATION, AND
+COMPILED<br>
+FROM OTHER AUTHENTIC SOURCES.</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above2 spaced15"><span class=
+"vsmall">BY</span><br class="">
+COLONEL CHURCHILL,<br>
+<span class="vsmall">AUTHOR OF “TEN YEARS’ RESIDENCE IN MOUNT
+LEBANON,” “DRUZES AND<br>
+MARONITES UNDER TURKISH RULE,” ETC., ETC.</span></p>
+
+<p class="publisher">LONDON:<br>
+CHAPMAN AND HALL, 193, PICCADILLY.<br>
+1867.</p>
+</div>
+
+<div class="page">
+<p class="center vsmall spaced15 space-above">LONDON:<br>
+VIRTUE AND CO., PRINTERS,<br>
+CITY ROAD.</p>
+</div>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2 class="large"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_v">[v]</span>DEDICATION.</h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter iwdecor">
+<figure><img src='images/decor1.png' alt='[Decoration]'>
+</figure>
+</div>
+
+<p class="center spaced2 space-above15"><span class=
+"med">TO</span><br>
+<span class="xlarge"><span class="letter-spaced01">NAPOLEON
+II</span>I.,</span><br>
+<span class="small">EMPEROR OF THE FRENCH.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">SIRE,</p>
+
+<p class="ind4"><span class="sc">Others</span> may claim for
+themselves the glorious privilege of recording the courage, the
+sagacity, and the skill with which you wield the destinies of
+Imperial France.</p>
+
+<p>I have claimed, and am proud to have procured at your hands, the
+humbler but scarcely less glorious privilege of dedicating to you a
+work which, while it celebrates the great actions, and portrays the
+magnanimous character of one of the most remarkable men whom the
+Arab race has ever produced, records at the same time, though
+feebly and inadequately, the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_vi">[vi]</span> loftiness of principle, the chivalry of
+sentiment, and the sensitive jealousy of French honour which
+induced you to release him, spontaneously and unconditionally, from
+treacherous detention on French soil.</p>
+
+<p>That act was a worthy inauguration of your splendid reign. That
+act alone would suffice to give it imperishable lustre.</p>
+
+<p class="right pad-right2">CHARLES HENRY CHURCHILL.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2 class="large"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_vii">[vii]</span>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter iwdecor">
+<figure><img src='images/decor1.png' alt='[Decoration]'>
+</figure>
+</div>
+
+<p class="nind space-above15"><span class="sc">If</span> I should
+unfortunately be mistaken in the belief and expectation that some
+interest may yet be excited in the public mind by a narrative of
+the deeds and exploits of the illustrious Arab whose extraordinary
+career I have selected as my theme, I shall willingly impute my
+disappointment, not to any want of judgment and discrimination on
+the part of the reading public, but to my own involuntary and
+sincere enthusiasm for all that is grand, ennobling, and
+romantic.</p>
+
+<p>That these characteristics attach largely, and in their most
+inspiring and soul-stirring sense, to the life I here depict, the
+following pages amply corroborate.</p>
+
+<p>Having thus exhibited the feeling which induced me to approach a
+subject, to me fraught with peculiar and almost irresistible
+attractions, I proceed to state the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_viii">[viii]</span> circumstances under which my present work
+was commenced and matured.</p>
+
+<p>I was at Constantinople in the month of September, 1853. Abdel
+Kader was living, an exile, at Broussa. To have been within such an
+easy distance of one who had for so many years been invested in my
+mind with all the attributes of heroic greatness, without
+gratifying myself with a sight of his person, would have been doing
+treason to my warmest and most deeply cherished feelings.</p>
+
+<p>I went accordingly and saw him. The acquaintance thus formed has
+been, through a course of wholly unexpected events, gradually
+cemented into permanent and unalterable friendship. In 1855 he came
+to Syria, his place of exile having been changed from Broussa to
+Damascus. On his way to the latter, from Beyrout, he passed a short
+time with me in the Lebanon.</p>
+
+<p>Our long conversations turned almost exclusively on his
+proceedings in Algeria—his campaigns, his mode of administration,
+his plans of reform, and his principles of government. He
+expatiated on all these topics not only without reserve, but with
+exuberance. The stirring recital, delivered at times in a tone
+of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_ix">[ix]</span> martial energy and
+enthusiasm, at others with an air of melancholy which touchingly
+told of glowing hopes cruelly frustrated, of lofty and patriotic
+inspirations rudely crushed, was more than simply interesting and
+exciting. It had the grandeur and sublimity of a tragic epos.</p>
+
+<p>What, I thought to myself, shall all this wealth of incident,
+these marvels of adventure, these varieties of good, and great, and
+glorious deeds be suffered to become “alms for oblivion,”<a id=
+"FNanchor_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a>
+without even a feeble attempt at rescue? Shall no one ever have an
+opportunity afforded him of being urged to greater self-discipline,
+to the attainment of more mental hardihood, to the practice of more
+severe abnegation, by having placed before him the record of a life
+marked and distinguished by such absorbing devotion to a sense of
+duty, such fixity and concentration of purpose, such unflinching
+and indomitable perseverance?</p>
+
+<p>Filled with these reflections, I one morning asked Abdel Kader
+if he had never kept any written memorial<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_x">[x]</span> of the transactions in which he had been
+engaged. He smiled, and said, “I was far too much and constantly
+occupied for that. I did my duty. That was quite occupation enough
+for me.” “But,” I added, “if I were to endeavour to draw up an
+account of your various doings, would you assist me?” “With the
+greatest pleasure,” was his reply; “I will gladly answer any
+questions you may wish to put me.” That day I resolved to write the
+biography of Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>I resided at Damascus during the winter of 1859-60, expressly
+for the purpose of carrying my resolution into effect. Abdel Kader,
+though a perfect miser of his time, courteously consented to give
+me an audience of one hour every day. The mine was before me. I had
+to extract the ore. I laboured at it for five months. Some French
+works assisted me in my course of inquiry, such as “Annales
+Algériennes,” by M. Pellissier de Reynaud; “Histoire de la Conquête
+d’Alger,” by M. Alfred Nottement, and others of less note. At a
+later period I also profited by a publication more exclusively
+devoted to my subject, entitled “Abdel Kader, sa vie Politique et
+Militaire,” by M. Bellemare.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xi">[xi]</span>Abdel Kader was
+most ample in his remarks and commentaries on these authors. He
+thus supplied me with many useful rectifications, as well as a vast
+amount of valuable and important original information from
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>Little did I contemplate, on leaving Damascus in the spring of
+1860, that another chapter was so soon about to be added to his
+strange and eventful history; or that his glorious star, apparently
+for ever set, was destined shortly to burst forth again with
+meteoric splendour. Of his magnanimous and exemplary conduct during
+the fearful massacre of the Christians in that city, through the
+shameless and heartless complicity of the Turkish authorities, I
+obtained the most extensive and correct details from
+eye-witnesses.</p>
+
+<p>Such, then, were my materials. It remained for me to compile and
+embody them. I have done so. With all diffidence and humility I
+invite my readers to pronounce their verdict on the
+performance.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2 class="large"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_xiii">[xiii]</span>CONTENTS.</h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter iwdecor">
+<figure><img src='images/decor2.png' alt='[Decoration]'>
+</figure>
+</div>
+
+<table class="toc">
+<tr>
+<td>
+</td>
+<td class="tdr med">PAGE.</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter I.—1807-1828</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c01">1</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter II.—1830-1832</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c02">14</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter III.—1833</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c03">30</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter IV.—1833</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c04">43</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter V.—1834</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c05">57</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter VI.—1835</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c06">72</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter VII.—1836</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c07">84</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter VIII.—1837</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c08">97</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter IX.—1838</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c09">109</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter X.—1838</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c10">122</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XI.—1838-1839</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c11">139</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XII.—1839</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c12">153</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XIII.—1839</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c13">167</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XIV.—1839-1840</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c14">181</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XV.—1841-1842</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c15">194</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XVI.—1841-1842</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c16">206</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XVII.—1843</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c17">219</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_xiv">[xiv]</span>Chapter XVIII.—1844-1845</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c18">231</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XIX.—1845-1847</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c19">245</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XX.—1847</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c20">259</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XXI.—1847-1848</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c21">271</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XXII.—1848-1853</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c22">287</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XXIII.—1853-1860</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c23">301</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+
+<tr>
+<td class="tdl-top hang1 sc">Chapter XXIV—1860-1864</td>
+<td class="tdr-bot"><a href="#c24">319</a>
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xv">[xv]</span>LETTER OF ABDEL
+KADER TO THE AUTHOR.</h2>
+
+<div class="figcenter iwdecor">
+<figure><img src='images/decor1.png' alt='[Decoration]'>
+</figure>
+</div>
+
+<p class="center med space-above15">[TRANSLATION.]</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15">PRAISE BE TO GOD ALONE!</p>
+
+<p class="nind">To the amiable, the honourable, the
+all-accomplished and virtuous Colonel Churchill.</p>
+
+<p>After offering you our salutations, and inquiring after your
+noble pleasure, we have to acknowledge your valued letter, showing
+your high regard for us.</p>
+
+<p>May God recompense you with His highest rewards, and make your
+portion exceedingly rich and full in everlasting felicity.</p>
+
+<p>We have now to state that we were hindered from replying to you
+sooner by an illness, which prevented us even for several days from
+going to the house of prayer. But now it is the most imperative of
+our imperative duties to thank you, in reply, for your great
+kindness. We never cease inquiring about all that may concern, or
+be connected with your Excellency; and we pray God to smooth and
+prosper our affairs in common, and to establish us in all rectitude
+and good works. With best wishes for your peace and happiness,</p>
+
+<p class="right">ABDEL KADER IBN MEHI-ED-DEEN.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><em>1 Jumadi</em>, 1273.<br>
+<em>25th December</em>, 1856.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<p class="center xlarge pb"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_1">[1]</span>LIFE OF ABDEL KADER.</p>
+
+<div class="figcenter iwdecor">
+<figure><img src='images/decor1.png' alt='[Decoration]'>
+</figure>
+</div>
+
+<h2 class="nopb"><a id="c01"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1807-1828.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Abdel Kader Nusr-ed-deen</span>,
+fourth son of Abdel Kader Mehi-ed-deen, was born in the month of
+May, 1807, at the paternal <em>ketna</em>, or family village, on
+the banks of the river Hammam. This locality lies in the district
+of Eghrees, appertaining to the province of Oran, in Algeria.</p>
+
+<p>From his infancy Abdel Kader was the especial object of his
+father’s fondest affections. Even when at the breast, the doting
+parent would constantly insist on taking the child in his arms; and
+he reluctantly permitted anyone but himself to do the duties of a
+nurse. Some secret and undefined impulse, as it seemed, impelled
+him to devote more than ordinary care and attention to the child,
+whose future career was to be so indelibly and gloriously
+associated with his country’s weal.</p>
+
+<p>The physical constitution of the boy early exhibited a robust
+development; whilst, by a strange contrast, his disposition
+displayed a great natural timidity. The term “frightened at a
+shadow,” might have been taken in its most literal<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span> sense in his case. In after years,
+and when in the pride and vigour of manhood, he shone forth as the
+bravest of the brave—ever foremost to lead the charge, or cover the
+retreat—his father would often rally him on his boyish frailty, and
+wonder at the extraordinary contrast.</p>
+
+<p>The mental powers of the boy were more than usually precocious.
+At the age of five he could read and write; at twelve he was a
+Taleb, or an approved proficient in the Koran, the Hadeeth
+(traditional sayings of the prophet Mohammed), and all the most
+esteemed religious expositions. Two years later he attained the
+highly-prized distinction of being a Hafiz, or one who knows the
+entire Koran by heart. In this position he had a class in the
+family mosque, where he explained the most difficult and recondite
+passages of the commentators. The extent of his youthful ambition
+was to be a great Marabout, like his father, whom he loved and
+regarded with an enthusiasm amounting to adoration.</p>
+
+<p>In his seventeenth year the youth was conspicuous amongst his
+associates for his remarkable strength and agility. The perfect
+symmetry and compactness of his figure—his height being about five
+feet six inches—his bony make, his broad, deep chest, all betokened
+a frame formed for untiring activity, and capable of enduring the
+utmost fatigue.</p>
+
+<p>As an equestrian, none approached him. Not only was he a
+graceful rider, but his marvellous superiority in all those feats
+of horsemanship which require the nicest eye, the steadiest hand,
+and the greatest efforts of muscular power, was the theme of all
+who knew him. Touching his horse’s shoulder with his breast, he
+would place one hand on its back, and vault over to the other side;
+or, putting the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span> animal
+to its full speed, he would disengage his feet from the stirrups,
+stand up in the saddle, and fire at a mark with the utmost
+precision. Under his light and skilful touch, his well-trained Arab
+would kneel down, or walk for yards on his hind legs, its fore ones
+pawing the air, or spring and jump like a gazelle.</p>
+
+<p>But it was on the race-course that the youth more particularly
+shone. That exciting pastime, into which the Algerian nobles enter
+with a passion not exceeded by our most devoted amateurs of the
+turf, was his peculiar element. Mounted on a jet-black steed—a
+colour he especially affected, as generally accompanied by superior
+equine qualities, and as throwing into relief the whiteness of his
+burnous—he was the cynosure of every eye.</p>
+
+<p>His apparel was plain and simple. His arms alone displayed
+ornament. His long Tunisian musket was inlaid with silver; his
+pistols were encrusted with mother-of-pearl and coral; and his
+Damascus blade encased in a sheath of silver gilt. These brilliant
+appurtenances, combined with the partial gifts which Nature had
+lavished on his person, threw an inexpressible charm around his
+appearance.</p>
+
+<p>His countenance, of the purest classic mould, was singularly
+attractive from its expressive and yet almost feminine beauty. His
+nose—middling-sized and delicately shaped—a pleasing mean between
+the Grecian and the Roman type; his lips, finely chiseled and
+slightly compressed, bespoke dignified reserve and firmness of
+purpose; while large, lustrous hazel eyes beamed from beneath a
+massive forehead of marble whiteness with subdued and melancholy
+softness, or flashed with the rays of genius and intelligence.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[4]</span>Once the race
+engaged, his whole hearing and demeanour exhibited the most perfect
+coolness and self-possession. Distancing his numerous competitors,
+he would often reach the goal alone, amidst shouts of applause,
+clapping of hands, and the exhilarating shouts of hundreds of
+female voices bursting out into the <em>zulagheel</em>—that shrill
+and piercing cry of joy and welcome amongst the Arabs, which is so
+cheering to the triumphant warrior.</p>
+
+<p>Thus, when at a later period of his life he performed those
+marvellous courses which astonished and confounded his
+enemies—never sleeping for weeks together under cover, and rarely
+ungirdling his sword—it was truly said of him that “his saddle was
+his throne.”</p>
+
+<p>In Algeria, the nobility is divided into two distinct
+classes—the Marabouts and the Djouads. The former derive their
+position from religion; the other from the sword. These respective
+representatives of moral influence and physical strength regard
+each other with mutual scorn and jealousy. The Djouads accuse the
+Marabouts of ill-disguised ambition, and of a greedy covetousness
+after wealth and power, veiled under the specious pretext that
+every fresh acquisition they make was solely for the service of
+religion. The Marabouts taunt the Djouads with their violence,
+licentiousness, and love of rapine.</p>
+
+<p>The Djied devotes himself entirely to the chase. He delights in
+all the bracing recreations which call forth skill and courage. His
+pride is to excel in falconry, in hunting the gazelle, the ostrich,
+the panther, and the wild boar. These violent pursuits, the
+thrilling excitement of which calls forth all the energies of body
+and mind, prepare him for the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_5">[5]</span> more serious encounters of war. The chase is
+the school for the razzia.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, although he certainly never contemplated the
+possibility of ever being engaged in a razzia, and altogether
+repudiated such a mode of warfare (based as it generally was on the
+mere love of plunder), as equally contrary to his principles and
+his inclination, yet engaged ardently in field sports. His
+favourite diversion was to hunt the wild boar. Carefully avoiding
+the ostentatious display of the Djouads, as they sallied forth with
+their long train of adherents, their falcons, and their greyhounds,
+he privately mounted his horse, and taking only two or three
+domestics, plunged into the depths of the forest. On his return
+from his sporting excursions, he betook himself to his studies with
+renewed ardour.</p>
+
+<p>It is not surprising that one so highly gifted by nature, and so
+earnest in the task of self-culture and improvement, should have
+gradually obtained a considerable ascendancy over all around him.
+Abdel Kader, indeed, already shared the unbounded respect,
+confidence, and affection which the Arabs of Oran had so long
+extended to his father. The latter, overjoyed to see his fondest
+hopes thus realised, could not perform a duty, or enjoy a social
+pleasure, without the presence of his favourite son. In his public
+audiences, his plans and projects, his lesser journeyings, or his
+more distant visits to the Turkish beys in the town, and the Arab
+tribes in the Tell or Sahara, Abdel Kader was his unfailing
+confidant and companion.</p>
+
+<p>According to Moslem usage, and the law of the Koran, Abdel Kader
+married young. “Marry young,” says the Prophet, “marriage subdues
+the man’s look and regulates the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_6">[6]</span> maiden’s conduct.” At that period of life when
+the passions first agitate the breast, Abdel Kader was, in an
+especial manner, the object of his father’s solicitude. Faithful
+and trustworthy servants accompanied him wherever he went. He was
+never allowed to be alone. Temptations were thus avoided which
+might have endangered the purity of his morals. At the age of
+fifteen he married his cousin, Leila Heira, who was alike
+remarkable for her beauty and her moral attractions.</p>
+
+<p>The time at length arrived when Mehi-ed-deen, now in his
+fiftieth year, felt it his duty to perform a pilgrimage to Mecca.
+Large preparations were made for the solemn event. Many were the
+entreaties on the part of his sons and retainers to be allowed the
+boon of sharing the dangers and the honours of the journey. None
+could endure the thought of being left behind. Mehi-ed-deen,
+embarrassed by such applications, declared his intention of going
+alone. The next day an exception was made in favour of Abdel Kader.
+All, though with mournful hearts, were obliged to submit to the
+final mandate; and father and son left the ketna, in October,
+1823.</p>
+
+<p>The rumour of Mehi-ed-deen’s movement soon spread through the
+province of Oran. Suddenly, a sympathetic impulse seemed to inspire
+the Arabs in all directions. All remembered they had a pilgrimage
+to perform. “To Mecca, to Mecca!” resounded on every side. Parties
+were made, mules procured, tents prepared.</p>
+
+<p>On his first day’s halt, Mehi-ed-deen saw his place of
+encampment invaded by hundreds of Arabs claiming the privilege of
+joining him on his pious errand. On the second day<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span> they increased to thousands. On
+the fourth, a sea of tents surged around him. Gentle remonstrance
+and stern refusal were equally unavailing. Mehi-ed-deen was their
+Marabout, their chief, their saint, and doubly blessed would those
+be who under such auspices should kiss the Holy Shrine. On the
+sixth evening the vast pilgrimage had assembled on the banks of the
+Ejdowia, in the valley of the Cheliff.</p>
+
+<p>At dead of night a Turkish horseman rode up at full gallop, and
+dismounted at the tent of Mehi-ed-deen. He was the bearer of a
+dispatch from Hussein Bey, the governor of Oran. The missive was
+hastily opened by Abdel Kader, and found to contain a courteous
+summons to his father to repair to that seat of government. Before
+daybreak Mehi-ed-deen had finished his arrangements for a return to
+Oran, in obedience to his chief’s commands.</p>
+
+<p>Great was the consternation which seized the Arabs when the news
+of this unexpected summons got abroad; not only were all their
+hopes damped and frustrated, but their liveliest fears were
+awakened for their beloved leader. Numbers thronged around him.
+Some clung to his person, others seized his horse; others again
+flung themselves despairingly across the horse’s path—all
+entreating and imploring him not to heed the message. To all these
+ardent demonstrations of attachment Mehi-ed-deen, with that sense
+of loyalty which never forsook him, calmly replied, “My children,
+it is my duty to obey, and I go, though it cost me my head.”</p>
+
+<p>Having thus spoken, and bidden the friends around him farewell,
+he took his course with Abdel Kader to the spot to which he was
+summoned.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span>The reception given
+them by Hussein Bey was apparently frank and cordial. Addressing
+himself to Mehi-ed-deen, he said, “You know, my friend, how high
+you stand in my favour and esteem. Deeply has it grieved me to hear
+the malicious reports which have been spread about you. Your
+enemies are numerous. I dreaded lest you should fall into the hands
+of the Dey of Algiers, whose territory you have just entered in a
+way which, I know, has excited his suspicions. I sent for you, to
+save you from impending danger. My heart was filled with anxiety on
+your account.”</p>
+
+<p>“And it was to save you anxiety,” mildly and sarcastically
+replied Mehi-ed-deen, “that I obeyed your summons.”</p>
+
+<p>There is no doubt, in fact, that Hussein Bey was himself
+actuated by those very feelings of jealousy and suspicion which he
+had described as peculiar to his colleague at Algiers. The strange
+and unusual gathering of the Arabs around Mehi-ed-deen had alarmed
+him. He knew and hated the great Marabout’s popularity. He dreaded
+lest it might one day raise him into the position of a rival power.
+Any overt acts of hostility against the man he feared, he was well
+aware, were dangerous, if not fruitless. But now he had succeeded,
+under the garb of friendship, in getting this very man into his
+power. His subsequent proceedings soon revealed his real
+intentions. Scarcely had Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader gone to their
+lodgings ere a Turkish guard was placed over them. Wherever they
+went they were escorted by soldiers. Soldiers entered with them
+into the houses of their friends. Soldiers stood by them in the
+mosque. They were prisoners of state.</p>
+
+<p>This irksome position of things continued with
+unabated<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span> rigour for two
+years. Mehi-ed-deen never made a remonstrance. Profiting by their
+forced seclusion, he and Abdel Kader ardently pursued their
+favourite studies. They awaited with stoic resignation the issue of
+their tyrant’s caprice. At last Hussein Bey, awakened to the folly
+of his fears, sent for Mehi-ed-deen and gave him permission to
+resume his pilgrimage.</p>
+
+<p>Resolving not to return to the ketna, even to bid adieu once
+more to his family, lest such steps should produce a similar
+manifestation to that which had previously caused them so much
+embarrassment, Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader left Oran with the
+greatest privacy, in November, 1825. Passing through Medea and
+Constantine, they reached Tunis, where they joined a company of
+2,000 pilgrims who were awaiting a favourable occasion to proceed
+by sea to Alexandria. The whole party shortly afterwards embarked
+in a vessel bound for that port. But they were overtaken by a
+violent storm, and were obliged to put back. A more prosperous
+result attended their next essay; and after beating about for a
+fortnight they reached their destination.</p>
+
+<p>After stopping a few days at Alexandria, Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel
+Kader went on to Cairo, and pitched their tents near the town. Here
+for the first and only time Abdel Kader saw Mohammed Ali. Little
+did the youthful pilgrim imagine, while gazing on that successful
+soldier, that he himself was already destined to outrival him,
+before many more years had past, in military prowess, in
+administrative ability, and in deeds of wide-world renown.</p>
+
+<p>The usual route to Mecca, by Suez and Djedda, was performed
+without any incident worthy of notice. Having<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_10">[10]</span> performed their devotions at the Caaba,
+Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader separated from their companions and
+went to Damascus. In that city they remained for some months. They
+there made the acquaintance of the principal Ulemahs, and spent
+most of their time in the great mosque, engaged in religious
+readings.</p>
+
+<p>They now set out on another pilgrimage, scarcely less sacred in
+their eyes than the one to Mecca,—that to the tomb of the famous
+Abdel Kader il Djellali, the patron saint of Algeria. They reached
+Bagdad in thirty days, by the Palmyra route. Belonging as they did
+to a family well known for the costly presents which many of its
+members had laid upon the sacred tomb, they received a most
+hospitable reception from the cadi of the city, Mohammed il
+Zachariah, who was himself a descendant of the great saint.
+Mehi-ed-deen contributed a bag full of gold. To doubt the
+miraculous powers of Abdel Kader il Djellali would have been as
+great a sin in the eyes of the Marabout as to have doubted the
+apostolic mission.</p>
+
+<p>His father Mustapha had thrice performed the pilgrimage to
+Bagdad, and had at each time been favoured with peculiar
+manifestations. Once when returning, and while yet eight days from
+Damascus, he got separated from the caravan and lost his way.
+Bewildered and benighted, he found himself alone in the desert.
+Suddenly a negro appeared by his side, and offered to conduct him
+to the city. At break of day he saw the minarets. The muezzin’s
+call to prayer struck upon his ears. In a few hours, time and space
+had been annihilated.</p>
+
+<p>At another time, when at Cairo, he was desirous of
+buying<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span> a book, but he
+had no money for the purchase. A stranger all at once advanced
+towards him, placed some coins in his hand, and disappeared. Such,
+according to the belief of Mehi-ed-deen, were the rewards of a firm
+and unshaken faith in Abdel Kader il Djellali.</p>
+
+<p>This Moslem saint flourished in the twelfth century. There are
+cenotaphs to his memory all over the East. In Algeria the
+operations of the physical world are believed to be under his
+control. No journey is ever undertaken without prayers for his
+protection; none are terminated without a festival in his honour.
+The Arabs attribute the success and good fortune of Abdel Kader to
+the patronage of his mighty namesake. But whenever Abdel Kader was
+questioned as to his own belief in such a superstition, he
+invariably replied, with finger pointed up to heaven, “My trust was
+in God alone.”</p>
+
+<p>Many stories have been circulated about mysterious indications
+given to Abdel Kader, while at Bagdad, of his future greatness.
+They are all without foundation. It is true Mehi-ed-deen had a
+dream. An angelic being appeared to him, and putting a key into his
+hand, told him to hasten back to Oran. On demanding what he was to
+do with the key, the spirit replied to him, “God will direct you.”
+The dream made an impression at the time on the two pilgrims, for
+it was noted down, and long remembered; but it only excited
+curiosity, without fostering delusion.</p>
+
+<p>After spending three months at Bagdad, father and son returned
+to Mecca. Their funds were exhausted. For the remainder of their
+journey, they depended on the resources of their fellow-travellers,
+pilgrims like themselves, who were<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_12">[12]</span> going back to Algeria. They took the land
+route the entire way, and reached home early in 1828, after an
+absence of more than two years.</p>
+
+<p>Great were the rejoicings which celebrated their safe arrival at
+the ketna. The first and most prominent in the round of festivities
+was a great banquet in honour of Abdel Kader il Djellali. Fifteen
+oxen and eighty sheep were sacrificed. Guests of every rank and
+class hourly arrived from all parts, spontaneously and uninvited.
+Some were superbly mounted and splendidly attired, followed by
+trains of slaves and domestics; others of the middle classes came
+riding on mules and donkeys, whilst hundreds of the lower orders
+kept pouring in, eagerly anticipating the princely fare of their
+revered Marabout.</p>
+
+<p>Mehi-ed-deen, whose hospitality was proverbial, would hear of no
+limits to this costly profusion; and thus week after week rolled
+on, and still fresh guests were perpetually arriving to swell the
+general tide of festivity. Nor was it till nearly all the Arabs of
+the province of Oran, and numerous deputations from the tribes of
+the Sahara, had paid their tribute of homage and congratulation to
+the respected chief of the Hashem, that the Wady Hammam resumed its
+wonted aspect of quiet and repose.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was now once more a peaceful dweller at the paternal
+ketna. He made a vow of religious seclusion. No visions of human
+greatness rose before him. No worldly aspirations agitated his
+breast. He scorned the allurements of ambition. His whole time was
+given up to close and unremitting study. No cloistered monk ever
+shunned more carefully all contact with his fellow-men. From
+sunrise to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span> sunset he
+rarely left his room. His only interruptions were his meals and the
+sacred intervals of prayer.</p>
+
+<p>The works of Plato, Pythagoras, Aristotle, treatises by the most
+famous authors of the Arabian Caliphates, on ancient and modern
+history, philosophy, philology, astronomy, geography, and even
+works on medicine, were eagerly perused by the enthusiastic
+student. His library accumulated. The master-spirits were around
+him. He would not have exchanged his communion with them for all
+the thrones in the universe. But a change was about to come.</p>
+
+<p>The mysterious power which regulates the human will, and makes
+every mortal career subservient to its all-wise, all-comprehensive
+and resistless fiat, was exercising its invisible influence. Abdel
+Kader had renounced the world. He was ere long to appear one of its
+foremost actors. He hated battle—yet was he soon to shine mightiest
+in the battle’s front.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span><a id=
+"c02"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1830-1832.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> taking of Algiers by
+the French in 1830 did not at first inspire the Arabs with any
+unusual feelings of dread or anxiety. The Franks had often
+descended on their coasts, and even occupied some of their maritime
+towns. The standards of Spain and England had waved triumphantly on
+the ramparts of Oran and Tangiers. Bona and Algiers had been
+compelled at different times to yield a sullen deference to the
+requirements of European civilisation; but the military occupation
+and the political pressure had alike ceased. Thus the Arabs had
+never as yet seen any reason to regard a hostile incursion on their
+soil, by the Franks, as pregnant with danger to their national
+existence.</p>
+
+<p>The proceedings of the French, however, in Algeria, soon
+convinced them that the presence of these invaders was no ordinary
+visitation. General Bourmont, indeed, from the outset, declared in
+a public proclamation, that France took possession, not only of the
+town of Algiers, but of the whole Regency. This announcement,
+closely followed as it was by the exile of the Dey, the removal of
+every trace and vestige of Turkish power, the deportation of the
+Turkish population, the issuing of laws and ordinances in the name
+of the King of the French, the enlarging and beautifying of the
+town of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span> Algiers, the
+seizure of all the towns along the coast, and the advances of
+military reconnaissance towards the Atlas, revealed designs which
+neither the Arabs of the actual generation, nor their ancestors,
+had ever been called upon to counteract.</p>
+
+<p>Before the French began to move beyond the walls of Algiers, the
+disposition of the Arabs towards them had been apparently friendly.
+Provisions had been brought in abundantly. Some of their chiefs had
+made overtures of submission. The Bey of Tittery had even accepted
+French investiture. So promising, indeed, was the aspect of
+affairs, that the French fancied they were about to be hailed as
+deliverers, and considered that the Arabs, overjoyed at being
+emancipated from the hated Turkish yoke, would thankfully accept
+French domination. The first movement of the French into the
+interior rapidly dispelled this pleasing illusion.</p>
+
+<p>An expedition, commanded by the French general in person, to
+Blidah, a town situated at the foot of the Lower Atlas (July 24th,
+1830), at once revealed the rising feeling of the Arabs. Lulled
+into security by the apparent heartiness of their reception among
+the inhabitants of Blidah, the leading men of which town came out
+to meet them, the French threw off their knapsacks, and wandered
+joyously amidst its delicious gardens. Suddenly, bands of Arabs and
+Kabyles rushed down upon them from the mountains above, and with
+wild cries commenced a vigorous attack. The French rapidly
+collected, bravely held their ground, and the next day retreated in
+good order to Algiers.</p>
+
+<p>The Arabs took this temporary advantage as an earnest
+of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span> future successes.
+From that moment, the spirit of defiance and resistance assumed a
+decided form. The Marabouts, leading and directing the national
+mind, proclaimed the Djehad, or Holy War. The Bey of Tittery,
+anxious to atone for his recent defection, wrote to Bourmont,
+fixing the day when at the head of 20,000 men, he would drive him
+and his Frenchmen into the sea.</p>
+
+<p>On the other hand, French garrisons were quietly being stationed
+in all the seaport towns. At Oran, Hussein Bey became anxious to be
+delivered from a position which had become dangerous to his person.
+He was closely blockaded by the Arabs, burning to revenge
+themselves on his tyranny. His Turkish militia was utterly
+powerless for his defence. The Arabs in Turkish employ, the
+<em>Maghzen</em>, as they were called, were flying before the
+tribes so long oppressed, who now considered that their hour of
+retaliation was come.</p>
+
+<p>In this dilemma, Hussein, unwilling to fly, and yet unable to
+hold his post, determined on adopting a course which, though
+humiliating to his pride, was dictated by the sternest necessity.
+He sent for Mehi-ed-deen, and craved his protection. Mehi-ed-deen,
+astonished at such an application, and fearing to compromise
+himself with his own countrymen by a hasty consent, asked leave to
+return home to consult the Hashems.</p>
+
+<p>On his arrival at the ketna, he assembled a family council, and
+called on each member to give his opinion on the subject. The
+prevailing opinion was to the effect that it would be ungenerous to
+refuse the Bey’s request. It was true, as was on every hand
+admitted, that the injuries done by him to their beloved chief had
+been wanton and malicious; but it<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_17">[17]</span> was urged, that it would be a stain upon Arab
+character to refuse an asylum to the fallen.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader spoke. He begged the indulgence of his relatives,
+and particularly of his father, if he ventured to differ from them.
+In the state of anarchy which now existed in the province of Oran,
+he argued, it was by no means certain that they could protect the
+Bey from the effects of the universal feelings of hatred and
+indignation which prevailed against him. Whatever steps they might
+take, the Bey would still run the risk of being insulted,
+assaulted, perhaps murdered. Who could avert an outburst of popular
+fury, or be answerable for its consequences? In such an event, how
+great would be the disgrace of those who had given him a
+safe-conduct, and had been unable to make it respected!</p>
+
+<p>“Another and equally important reason,” pursued Abdel Kader,
+“militates against the reception of the Bey in our ketna. An asylum
+given by our family to that detested representative of Turkish
+tyranny, would be looked upon by the Arabs as a kind of tacit
+forgetfulness of all his past conduct. Consequently we should make
+to ourselves enemies of all the tribes to whom the Bey is
+obnoxious; in other words, of all the Arabs of Oran.”</p>
+
+<p>Mehi-ed-deen at once declared himself a convert to his son’s
+reasoning; and in this step he was shortly followed by every member
+of the council. A messenger was sent to inform the Bey that his
+request could not be granted, as Mehi-ed-deen would not become
+responsible for his safety. On the 4th of January, 1831, General
+Damremont entered the port of Oran. The Bey at once surrendered,
+and he was allowed to embark for Alexandria.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span>The disorder and
+anarchy which had already broken out in the interior was now
+constantly on the increase. The Mohammedans of the sea-coast towns,
+who had fled from the French, were roaming about the country with
+their families in terror and despair. The Arabs waylaid them, and
+robbed them without mercy. Mehi-ed-deen, who had hitherto been a
+passive observer of events, felt that the time had now arrived for
+action. By his orders Abdel Kader and his brothers, with effective
+escorts, scoured the plains in all directions, protecting the
+unfortunate fugitives, rescuing many from the hands of the
+marauders, and conducting all to places of safety.</p>
+
+<p>But whatever good Mehi-ed-deen effected by this humane and
+timely interposition, it was evident that a far more potent arm
+than his was requisite to establish anything like a semblance of
+order and government. Not only on the plains, but in the towns,
+strife and contention were raging unchecked. Party feuds, which had
+been long suspended, broke out afresh with redoubled acrimony. The
+Arabs were everywhere giving the reins to their innate propensities
+for unbridled licence and lawlessness.</p>
+
+<p>Long and anxious were the consultations held by the Marabouts on
+this frightful state of affairs. At length, with one accord, they
+determined to go to Mehi-ed-deen for counsel. Mehi-ed-deen thus
+appealed to, addressed the applicants for his advice in the
+following terms:—</p>
+
+<p>“For many months, as you all know, I have been trying to
+preserve some degree of order amidst the general confusion which
+prevails; but my utmost endeavours have only been able to rescue a
+few of the weak and unprotected from the brutality of violent
+men.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span>“The tyranny of
+the Turks cramped and crushed our energies; but the present state
+of things, if allowed to continue, will destroy them utterly. The
+bonds of society are dissolved. Every man’s hand is raised against
+his neighbour. Our people, given up to their vile passions, are
+daily outraging the laws of God and man. At the same time, the
+evils which menace us from without are not less formidable than
+those which consume us from within. Shall we call in the French?
+Impossible. To submit to them, much more to invite them, would be
+to betray our duty to our God, our country, and our faith.</p>
+
+<p>“Yet the French are a warlike nation, strong in numbers,
+abounding in riches, and burning with a love of conquest. And what
+have we to oppose to them? Tribes at variance with each other;
+designing and rapacious chiefs striving for personal
+aggrandisement; a commonalty which has thrown off all restraint,
+some enriching themselves by plunder, others precariously holding
+their own. The parties are too unequal. With such materials, to
+imagine even a successful struggle with the infidel would be folly,
+to attempt it, madness.</p>
+
+<p>“No. The French king, powerful as he is, can only be effectually
+opposed by a king like himself at the head of a well-regulated
+state, disposing of a well-filled treasury, commanding a
+disciplined army. Nor need we go far to find such a one. The Sultan
+of Morocco already sympathises with us. He must know full well that
+the external danger which threatens us may ultimately menace him.
+His presence amongst us will at once encourage and embolden the
+good, and awe the wicked. Order will be enforced.<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span> Fighting under him, we shall
+march to assured victory; for his standards are the standards of
+God and the Prophet.”</p>
+
+<p>A few days afterwards, an embassy, comprising ten of the most
+influential Marabouts and Sheiks, with an escort of fifty horsemen,
+and mules laden with presents, took its departure for Fez. Sultan
+Abderahman received the embassy with every appearance of
+cordiality, and promised to consider its demands. Six months
+elapsed without any reply. At last the Arab chiefs were sent for.
+Movements in the palace, and the assemblage of the troops, showed
+that the petition of the Arabs of Algeria had been granted. In six
+weeks, the Sultan’s son Ali, at the head of 5,000 cavalry and two
+parks of artillery, established his headquarters at Tlemsen, in the
+province of Oran.</p>
+
+<p>Mehi-ed-deen and Abdel Kader, with all the chiefs of the Hashem,
+chiefs from the Beni Mejaher, the Beni Amer, and other tribes,
+hastened to pay their homage to the son and representative of their
+new Sultan. His authority was speedily recognised in all parts of
+the regency. The <em>khotba</em>, or public prayer for the
+Mohammedan Sultan, was pronounced in all the mosques for the Sultan
+of Morocco. Everything conspired to confirm the belief that Algeria
+had peaceably passed under the Moorish sceptre. But the French
+Government, seasonably apprised of these newly-formed relations
+between the Arabs and the Sultan Abderahman, at once sent the
+latter an ultimatum of immediate withdrawal from Algeria, or
+war.</p>
+
+<p>Abderahman, compelled to choose one or other of these
+alternatives, and being totally unprepared to commence hostilities,
+immediately sent orders to his son to return. In a<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span> few days, although the Moors had
+been warmly welcomed, even in the provinces of Tittery and
+Constantine, not one was to be seen in the whole country. The
+Marabouts and chiefs now resolved to offer the dignity of Sultan to
+Mehi-ed-deen, and went in a body for that purpose to the ketna. He
+modestly declined the offer; but at the same time he recommended a
+second appeal to Morocco.</p>
+
+<p>Another embassy was accordingly sent to Fez, to implore the
+Moorish Sultan to lend his name, at least, if he could not give
+material aid and assistance, to the movement which was being made
+in his favour. Unable to act overtly, yet hoping to profit by
+events, Abderahman so far complied with their request, that he sent
+a confidential agent to Mascara. This clandestine proceeding,
+however, produced no effect. The Arabs scorned a power which dared
+not openly display itself; and in a short time the Moorish agent
+was withdrawn.</p>
+
+<p>Again all eyes were turned to Mehi-ed-deen. Again the Arabs
+entreated him to be their Sultan. “No,” he replied. “I am not
+adequate to perform the duties of such a post; but what religion
+imposes upon me, that will I do. I will go with you to the Djehad.”
+The Arabs had for some time been making approaches to Oran, now
+strongly occupied by the French. Abdel Kader had taken the field,
+and his father served under him.</p>
+
+<p>The Arabs had recently been attacking Fort Philip, a strong
+citadel to the south of the town. Abdel Kader had both proposed and
+superintended the operation. Conspicuous in a scarlet burnous, he
+led on a mixed body of cavalry and infantry to the very walls of
+the fort. Ordering the latter to descend into the ditch and keep up
+a constant fire on the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_22">[22]</span> ramparts, he placed the former in such a
+position as to be ready to resist any sortie which might be made
+from the place. The fire of shot and shell which the French opened
+on the Arabs was such as might have staggered the best disciplined
+troops. But Abdel Kader, careering to and fro, and cheering his
+comrades by his voice and gestures, kept them together, and taught
+them to despise the tremendous missiles which were so wont to fill
+them with terror and amazement.</p>
+
+<p>Word was sent him that the Arabs he had placed in the ditch had
+expended their ammunition, and that no one would expose himself to
+supply them. “Cowards!” he exclaimed, “give me the cartridges.”
+Wrapping them up in the folds of his burnous, he dashed singly
+across the plain, rode up to the fort, threw them into the ditch,
+and urging his men to be firm and go on with their work, returned,
+to the surprise of all, without being touched.</p>
+
+<p>On this and many similar occasions of peril and enterprise, in
+which he fleshed his maiden sword, Abdel Kader’s courage and
+bravery drew forth not only praises, but rapturous admiration. The
+Arabs began to look with superstitious reverence on one, who as
+with a charmed life, rode fearlessly and harmlessly wherever danger
+menaced; now breaking through the line of the enemy’s skirmishers;
+now charging up to a square, and sweeping the bayonets with his
+sabre; now standing unmoved and pointing contemptuously at the
+cannon balls as they whizzed by his head, or at the shells as they
+exploded at his feet.</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, however confident the Arabs might feel in their
+young chief, however they might acknowledge that in<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span> him a master-spirit had arisen
+to conduct them in their struggle against the infidels, they felt
+that this desultory mode of attack was not war. They saw full well
+that without a responsible head to organise, to raise revenues by
+regular imposts, to husband resources, and to form and carry out a
+clearly defined plan of campaign, all their efforts would be
+abortive, all their sacrifices useless. At a grand meeting held at
+Mascara, these topics were earnestly discussed.</p>
+
+<p>Mehi-ed-deen, who was enjoying a short repose at the ketna, was
+invited to attend. Scarcely had he arrived and dismounted, when an
+excited throng surrounded him. A tumult of voices was raised. On
+all sides he was thus apostrophised,—“How long, O Mehi-ed-deen, are
+we to be left without a leader? How long will you remain a callous
+spectator of our distractions; you, whose name alone would suffice
+to rally all hearts, to encourage the desponding, to curb the
+malignant, to give strength and cohesion to the common cause?
+Already many of our bravest have fallen off in weariness and
+disgust. Who, they say, is to repair our losses, to replace our
+horses killed, our arms broken and useless? You, O Mehi-ed-deen,
+are answerable for all this.” Then, placing their swords at his
+breast, the chiefs exclaimed:—“Choose between being our Sultan or
+instant death.”</p>
+
+<p>Mehi-ed-deen, violently agitated, but still preserving his
+presence of mind, demanded to be heard. “You all know,” he said,
+“that I am a man of peace, devoting myself to the worship of God.
+The task of ruling involves the use of brute force and the shedding
+of blood. But since you insist<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_24">[24]</span> on my being your Sultan, I consent; and
+abdicate in favour of my son, Abdel Kader.”</p>
+
+<p>This sudden and unexpected solution of the question was received
+with loud acclamations of approval. The name of Abdel Kader was
+repeated with enthusiasm. The character, the personal appearance,
+the manly bearing, the tried gallantry of the favourite son of
+Mehi-ed-deen, became the general topic of discourse. A horseman was
+forthwith despatched to bring him from the ketna.</p>
+
+<p>Early on the next morning, November 21st, 1832, Abdel Kader
+entered Mascara. All the streets and avenues leading to the town
+were thronged. Men, women, and children vied with each other in
+joyful demonstrations of welcome to their future Sultan. Ushered
+into the large court where the council was assembled, Abdel Kader
+was informed of all that had passed. Calm, self-collected, and
+unelated, he simply said, “It is my duty to obey the commands of my
+father.” A burst of applause followed this simple avowal of filial
+obedience and patriotic devotion.</p>
+
+<p>Placed in an antique chair of state, which had formerly belonged
+to some Spanish grandee, and which had been dragged forth from its
+musty recess for the occasion, the young Sultan, of twenty-five
+years of age, received the allegiance of the nobles and chiefs
+congregated around him. Loud shouts of “Long life and victory to
+our Sultan, Abdel Kader!” burst from the whole assembly. They were
+caught up and reiterated by the people from without, and thus
+heralded the inauguration of an Arabian Caliphate.</p>
+
+<p>In the afternoon Abdel Kader went to the Mosque, which was
+already crowded to suffocation. After performing his<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span> devotions, he stood up. A Koran
+was put into his hands. He read and expounded. By degrees his
+countenance became more animated, his voice more resonant, his
+manner more impressive, and his action more emphatic, as, leaving
+the language of disquisition, he passed to more noble and exalted
+themes.</p>
+
+<p>Not for minutes, but for hours, and until the sun had sunk below
+the horizon, did the soldier orator pour forth one continued stream
+of burning and impassioned eloquence. He expatiated, in
+heart-rending tones, on the sins, the iniquities, the crimes, the
+horrors which polluted the land. In vivid terms he depicted
+Heaven’s judgments overtaking a godless and vice-abandoned people;
+and now, again, he conjured up before the minds of his audience, in
+characters of flame, the appalling picture of their country ravaged
+by the infidel, their domestic hearths violated, their temples
+desecrated.</p>
+
+<p>The sensation of wonder and astonishment which had at first
+filled the breasts of his hearers, now rapidly changed into
+conscience-stricken feelings of shame, contrition, and remorse. But
+when, with outstretched arm and lightning glance, he called on his
+countrymen, in words which glowed with the fire of inspiration, to
+stand boldly forward in the sacred cause of God and the Prophet, to
+rally round the standard of the “Djehad,” and to emulate the
+glorious martyrs of the true faith; and then painted in vivid
+colours the liberated spirits of the slain entering the blissful
+mansions, they sprang to their feet, they shook their spears, they
+clashed their swords, they wept aloud, and with frantic cries
+yelled out, “Il Djehad! Il Djehad!”</p>
+
+<p>Exulting in his prowess, again and again did the
+consummate<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span> artist
+strike the chord, whose vibrations had thrilled every heart and
+enkindled every soul, and, as the frenzied voices rose louder and
+louder around him, his voice yet surged above them all. Gathering
+fresh impulse from the responsive acclamations of his hearers, he
+swayed to and fro. He smote his breast. Big drops of sweat suffused
+his brow. His eyes glistened and flashed. He flung his hands aloft,
+as though appealing to celestial witnesses. At last, so crushing
+and overpowering became his excitement, that Reason might have
+succumbed, had not Nature, by a copious flood of tears, relieved
+the fearful tension.</p>
+
+<p>The next day (November 22nd, 1832) Abdel Kader proceeded in
+state to the valley of Ersibia, ten minutes’ distance from Mascara.
+Ten thousand Arab cavalry were there in waiting to receive and
+welcome their newly-elected sovereign. They were arranged,
+according to their tribes, in one continuous crescent, around a
+splendid tent, which had been erected in the centre of the plain.
+The entire population of Mascara occupied the intervening
+ground.</p>
+
+<p>Just as the sun’s slanting rays peered over the heights of
+Djebel Nusmut, lighting up this scene as if by magic brightness,
+the shrill cries of the women, the shouts of the men, and incessant
+crashes of musketry, announced the approach of the royal cavalcade.
+First came a chosen band, escorting the standard of the Djehad.
+Then followed the chiefs of the Beni Amer, the Beni Mejaher, the
+Beni Yacoub, the Beni Abbas, on their high-mettled steeds, with
+their brilliant equipments, and well-burnished arms. Now appeared
+Abdel Kader—a plain, unornamented, red burnous flung over his
+shoulders, riding his favourite black charger. The chiefs
+of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span> the Beni Hashem,
+his own tribe, brought up the rear of the splendid
+<em>cortège</em>.</p>
+
+<p>Passing on, as quickly as the crowd would permit—for some
+thronged round to kiss his hand, some the hem of his burnous,
+others even his horse’s feet—Abdel Kader reached the tent and
+dismounted. For some minutes he was lost to view. At length
+Mehi-ed-deen came forth, leading him by the hand, in order to
+present him to the people. “Behold the Sultan announced by
+prophecy!” he exclaimed. “Behold the son of Zohra! Obey him as you
+would have obeyed me. God protect the Sultan!” “Our lives, our
+properties, all that we have, are his!” shouted the people. “We
+will obey no law but that of our Sultan Abdel Kader.”</p>
+
+<p>“I, in my turn,” replied Abdel Kader, “will know no law but the
+Koran. By the precepts of the Koran, and the Koran alone, will I be
+guided. If my own brother forfeits his life by the Koran, he shall
+die.”</p>
+
+<p>Amidst the acclamations which saluted this short but pregnant
+speech, Abdel Kader vaulted into his saddle, and, followed by all
+his chiefs, swept at full speed along the Arab lines. At intervals
+he reined up, briefly ejaculating, “Il Djehad! Il Djehad! Liberty
+and independence are only in the Djehad. Paradise is in the shade
+of sabres. Rally round the standard of the Djehad!”</p>
+
+<p>The banners waved, the drums and trumpets sent forth their
+martial sounds, and the mighty mass, breaking ground, circled round
+their Sultan in successive squadrons, and then escorted him back to
+Mascara. After snatching a hasty meal, Abdel Kader shut himself up
+in a small room, and, summoning his secretaries, dictated the
+following proclamation:—</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span>“Praise be to God
+alone, and blessings and salutation from on high on him,<a id=
+"FNanchor_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a>
+after whom there is no prophet.</p>
+
+<p>“To (such and such a tribe), and in particular to its nobles,
+sheiks, notables, and alemahs.</p>
+
+<p>“May God enlighten you, guide and direct your counsels, and give
+success to your deeds and actions. The citizens of the districts,
+Mascara, the Eastern and Western Gharees, and their neighbours and
+allies, the Beni Sokrân, El Borgiés, the Beni Abbas, the Yacoubiés,
+the Beni Amer, the Beni Mejaher, and others, have agreed
+unanimously to appoint me, and have accordingly appointed me, to
+the government of our country; pledging themselves to obey me in
+success and in distress, in prosperity and in adversity; and to
+consecrate their persons, their sons, and their properties to the
+great and holy cause.</p>
+
+<p>“We have, therefore, assumed this important charge (though with
+extreme reluctance), hoping it may be the means of uniting the
+great body of Moslems, of preventing dissensions amongst them, of
+affording general security to all dwellers in the land, of checking
+all acts of lawlessness on the part of the disorderly against the
+well-disposed, and of driving back and overcoming the enemy who has
+invaded our country with a view of placing their yoke upon our
+necks.</p>
+
+<p>“As a condition of our acceptance, we have imposed on those who
+have delegated to us the supreme power, the duty of always
+conforming, in all their actions, to the holy precepts and teaching
+of the book of God, and of administrating justice in their various
+spheres, according to the law of the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_29">[29]</span> Prophet; loyally and impartially, to the
+strong and the weak, the noble and the respectable. This condition
+has been accepted by them.</p>
+
+<p>“We hereby invite you to be partakers in this pledge, or
+compact, between ourselves and them. Hasten, therefore, to make
+manifest your allegiance and obedience; and may God prosper you in
+this world and in the world to come. My great object is to reform,
+and to do good as much as in me lies. My trust is in God; and from
+Him, and Him only, I expect reward and success.</p>
+
+<p>“By order of the Defender of Religion, our sovereign lord, the
+Prince of the Faithful, Abdel Kader-ibn-Mehi-ed-deen. May God give
+him the victory. Amen. Dated from Mascara, November 22, 1832.”</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span><a id=
+"c03"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1833.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> appeal thus made by
+Abdel Kader was variously entertained by the different tribes to
+which it was addressed. The religious party was inclined to give
+its strenuous support to one who summoned them to fight for the
+faith. The men of worldly views and individual ambition looked with
+jealousy on such an assumption of sovereignty. Chiefs, who even
+under the Turkish rule had struggled to maintain an independent
+existence, felt little disposed to accept the mandates of a
+compeer, whose claims to an extended sway were in their eyes no
+better than their own.</p>
+
+<p>Even in the province of Oran, the imposing circumstances under
+which Abdel Kader had been installed, had excited party feelings
+rather than disarmed them. Sidi-il-Aribi, a powerful chieftain,
+whose influence was supreme over the tribe of the Flittas, in the
+valley of the Cheliff, spoke of the new power with undisguised
+contempt. El Ghomari, chief of the Beni Engad, held sternly aloof.
+Noona, who affected to hold Tlemsen for the Sultan of Morocco, felt
+it beneath him to give his adhesion. Mustapha-ibn-Ismail, an old
+and experienced warrior, grown grey in the Turkish service as
+leader of the <em>Maghzen</em>, scornfully disdained to kiss the
+hands, as he expressed it, of a beardless boy.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span>As a contrast to
+these selfish views and circumscribed ambitions, Abdel Kader
+presented to his countrymen the one simple and majestic idea of an
+Arab nationality. Little as it might be at first comprehended and
+appreciated by a race accustomed for centuries to bow their necks
+to a foreign yoke, and in whom all principles of patriotism had
+long been extinguished, he trusted that amongst the hundreds of
+tribes which occupied Algeria there would be some, at least, in
+whom it would awake a responsive echo.</p>
+
+<p>On the other hand, though not a fanatic himself, Abdel Kader
+well knew the latent fires of fanaticism which slumber in every
+Moslem breast. What love of country would not effect, zeal for
+religion might surely accomplish. He determined, consequently, to
+make this latter feeling the key-stone to the mighty superstructure
+his genius alone had dared to imagine. In this unity of design
+consisted the grandeur of the drama he proposed to exhibit to the
+civilised world.</p>
+
+<p>He now issued invitations for a general rendezvous of forces at
+Mascara, in the spring of 1833. Many important tribes from the Tell
+and the Sahara responded cordially to the summons. Of the
+<em>Maghzen</em> tribes, who had been so long the instruments of
+the Turks for the enslavement and oppression of their brethren,
+some sent evasive, some insulting answers. Anarchy was better
+suited to their sordid dispositions. They were ready, if occasion
+presented itself, to offer their mercenary swords to the
+French.</p>
+
+<p>On the day appointed—May 18th, 1833—an imposing array of 8,000
+cavalry and 1,000 infantry assembled on the plains of Ersibia.
+Abdel Kader’s own standard, a large white flag, with an open hand
+in the centre, was unfurled<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_32">[32]</span> before the multitude with great pomp and
+ceremony. After riding through the ranks, and apostrophising the
+assemblage in a few short, trenchant sentences, which caused the
+blood to thrill through their veins, he led them off to take the
+field in the direction of Oran.</p>
+
+<p>On this expedition he inaugurated that system, so conspicuous
+alike for its simplicity and its regularity, which he afterwards
+maintained under all changes and vicissitudes throughout his whole
+career. His tent was large and commodious, and displayed hangings
+adorned with red, blue, yellow, and green crescents. A woollen
+curtain divided it into two compartments. The largest of these was
+the <em>menzoul</em>, or general reception-room, open to all
+comers, and in which he heard appeals and administered justice. The
+smaller he used as his bedroom and library; and here he spent more
+time in reading than in sleeping.</p>
+
+<p>On alighting at the end of the day’s march, which was generally
+over by mid-day, he dismissed all his attendants, and retired into
+the strictest privacy, scrupulously devoting an hour to prayer. He
+then went into the <em>menzoul</em>, where his principal officers
+and secretaries were in waiting to receive him. The movements of
+the enemy and his own plans were now discussed, or orders and
+dispatches were dictated by himself. On these occasions he
+frequently supported his commands by appropriate quotations from
+the Koran. His ordinary military council consisted of four chiefs,
+a kehié, and his treasurer; but other chiefs were called in, if
+thought advisable. He listened to the suggestions of all with the
+greatest patience and urbanity.</p>
+
+<p>At sunset, Abdel Kader stood at the door of his tent,
+and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span> preached. None
+were compelled to attend; but none, if possible, absented
+themselves from these discourses. Thence, as from a central source
+of light and heat, all daily received that warmth of warlike and
+religious zeal which glowed within their breasts. For Abdel Kader
+pre-eminently possessed the art of attracting the love and
+admiration of his followers; and he wielded with an almost magical
+power that talisman which is the gift, as it is the sign, of noble
+and exalted natures.</p>
+
+<p>For some weeks previous to Abdel Kader’s present advance on
+Oran, the Hashem Gharabas, his family tribe, had been engaged in a
+series of encounters with the French, under General Boyers. This
+general had lately been replaced by General Desmichels; and Abdel
+Kader came up just in time to assist his allies in resisting a
+vigorous attack made on them by the latter. Dividing his force into
+two portions, he sent one to fall on the enemy’s left flank,
+whilst, at the head of the other, he marched directly up to a fort
+which the French general had erected at a place called Figuier. The
+defence of this fort was supported by a battalion of infantry, a
+squadron of Chasseurs d’Afrique, and two pieces of artillery.</p>
+
+<p>On approaching the fort, the Arab infantry wavered. Abdel Kader
+at once sprang from his horse, and taking the lead on foot,
+attempted an escalade. Twice repulsed in his endeavours to take the
+fort, he remounted, and drawing off his men, rejoined his cavalry
+in the plain. There the French were utterly unable to resist the
+onset made upon them. Their lines of skirmishers were swept away,
+their squares broken. The engagement was prolonged till night,
+when<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span> Desmichels
+retreated under cover of the fire from his artillery. For some days
+there was a suspension of hostilities.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, impatient of inaction, proceeded one night with a
+hundred picked horsemen, and placed himself in ambush in a copse, a
+short distance from Oran, through which the French were accustomed
+to send their reliefs of cavalry to the outposts. At the ordinary
+hour, a squadron of Chasseurs made their appearance. Abdel Kader
+led on the charge, routed and dispersed them, slaying several, and
+taking thirty prisoners. One Chasseur made a thrust at him with his
+spear. The weapon passed under his left arm. He held it firmly
+between his left arm and side as in a vice, and with a swing of his
+sabre cut off the Frenchman’s head.</p>
+
+<p>In the <em>mêlée</em> his cousin Achmet was shot down. Abdel
+Kader was by the side of his wounded relative in a moment. After
+stanching the blood and binding up his wound, he placed the
+sufferer before him on his horse, and carried him out of reach of
+danger. Shortly afterwards, seeing that the French were not
+disposed again to measure their swords with his, he drew off his
+whole force, and returned to Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had conducted this movement more with the intention
+of trying his men, and of inspiring them with confidence, than with
+the hopes of achieving any permanent result. He felt that the
+jealousies and rivalries which environed him could only be
+dispersed by the tumult of battle; and that all internal
+difficulties would vanish before success. His reception at Mascara
+fully confirmed this impression. Many chiefs who had hitherto
+withheld their allegiance, were there awaiting him. Hadj-ibn-Isa, a
+celebrated Marabout, alone brought with him deputations from twenty
+tribes in the Sahara.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span>Abdel Kader,
+deeply impressed with the necessity of absolute union amongst his
+countrymen, to enable him to complete their common independence,
+now determined on smiting with the sword all who questioned or
+attempted to resist his power. Sidi-il-Aribi had been collecting
+forces, which, as he never hesitated to declare, were to be
+directed against the aspiring son of Mehi-ed-deen.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader paid him an unexpected visit at the head of 5,000
+men, announcing his approach by discharges of musketry and shouts
+of triumph. His rival was completely taken by surprise; and the
+defence he attempted was quickly paralysed. Tents were knocked
+over, prisoners made, flocks carried off. It was only by sending a
+written engagement of submission, and sending his son as a hostage
+to his conqueror, that the old chief obtained forgiveness of the
+past, and security for the future.</p>
+
+<p>On continuing his course through the vast valley of the Cheliff
+and the adjoining regions, Abdel Kader received the adhesion of
+several important tribes. He even advanced as far as the Ouarensis,
+a difficult mountain range, inhabited by fierce Kabyles. These
+stern republicans, secure in their fastnesses, and indifferent as
+to the doings of the outer world, were accustomed to scorn all
+authority. Uncertain as to their attitude, Abdel Kader refrained
+from pushing his expedition further. At a later period these very
+tribes obeyed him like children.</p>
+
+<p>Where no great feudal influences prevailed, the authority of
+Abdel Kader was promptly and even thankfully accepted. The small
+provincial towns at once opened their gates to him. His occupation
+of Arzew, situated two leagues from the port<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_36">[36]</span> of that name, was marked by a circumstance
+which gave rise to reports reflecting both erroneously and
+injuriously on his character for humanity.</p>
+
+<p>He had issued the most stringent orders that no communications
+should be opened with the French. In direct violation of this
+order, Sidi Achmet-ibn-il-Taher, the Cadi of that town, had
+supplied the French with cattle and forage, and, what was
+considered a far graver crime, had even sold them horses. Abdel
+Kader had often written to him, warning him of the consequences of
+his conduct, and menacing him with exemplary punishment if he
+persisted in his proceedings. The Cadi, unable to give up the
+profit he was making by his transactions, and calculating on French
+protection, persevered. Abdel Kader one day suddenly dashed into
+the town. The Cadi was seized, loaded with chains, and conveyed to
+the prison at Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>Giving strict injunctions that nothing was for the present to be
+done to the delinquent, he rode off to the Beni Amers on matters
+which detained him several days. His private intentions were to
+allow the Cadi to ransom his life (justly forfeited by the law of
+the Koran) for 5,000 francs. On his return to Mascara he found, to
+his surprise, that the Cadi had been put to death. Mehi-ed-deen had
+had him tried. He had been condemned to capital punishment, and the
+sentence had been carried into immediate execution. His eyes had
+been put out. The responsibility of this latter act of brutality,
+which was the spontaneous suggestion of one of the executioners,
+has been spitefully thrown by some on Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>Fully comprehending that mere successes in the field would not
+be sufficient to consolidate his dominion, Abdel Kader<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span> now sought to place his
+sovereignty on a more solid basis, by holding places of strength,
+erecting arsenals, and establishing stores and magazines. With this
+view he attacked Tlemsen, about seventy miles to the south-west of
+Oran. This town is situated on an eminence at the foot of steep and
+lofty mountains. Its walls are remarkable for their thickness and
+solidity, and it had frequently withstood sieges.</p>
+
+<p>The mainspring of Abdel Kader’s strength at this epoch lay in
+the Beni Amers and the Hashems. Taking strong detachments from
+these tribes, he approached the town. Its population was divided
+into two parties, Turks and Kolouglis. The latter (descendants of
+Turkish and Arab parents) occupied the citadel. The Arabs were
+commanded by Noona, who has been already mentioned. Abdel Kader
+summoned the latter to surrender. He refused. The resistance which
+he offered was, however, quickly overcome; for while Abdel Kader
+assaulted him on one side, the Kolouglis opened fire on him from
+the citadel.</p>
+
+<p>When the town of Tlemsen was won, Abdel Kader treated its
+inhabitants with the greatest consideration. He had hoped that the
+Kolouglis would acknowledge him. But, secure in their stronghold,
+they rejected all his overtures. They consented, however, to
+maintain with him a friendly intercourse. Having no artillery
+wherewith to reduce them, he accepted the compromise, and
+installing one of his lieutenants as governor of the town, returned
+to Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>On the road he received tidings of his father’s death.
+Mehi-ed-deen had lived long enough to see his favourite son
+embarked in that career which he fondly hoped would be the prelude
+to his country’s freedom and independence. The<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_38">[38]</span> bereaved son was deeply afflicted by the
+loss of a parent who had from his infancy lavished on him all the
+endearments of love and affection, who had always treated him as a
+bosom friend and companion, and to whose influence he in truth owed
+his high position. But, so far from having time to indulge in the
+temporary retirement from public affairs which his grief demanded,
+he was barely able to follow his father’s remains to the grave.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels had just taken Arzew and Mostaganem. Abdel Kader had
+thus not a moment to lose. It was imperative on him to make every
+endeavour to nullify this extension of French dominion in the
+province of Oran. On the 2nd of August, 1833, he was under the
+walls of Mostaganem, and led an assault against it. Desmichels,
+leaving the garrison to defend itself, immediately returned to
+Oran. He hoped that the presence of Abdel Kader at Mostaganem would
+leave him free to carry out successfully an incursion he had long
+contemplated.</p>
+
+<p>On the 5th of August, the day after his arrival in Oran,
+consequently, he sent a force of 3,000 cavalry and infantry and
+three field-pieces to attack the Douairs and Zmelas, two tribes who
+were doing the French irreparable injury by the activity with which
+they were enforcing the blockade established by Abdel Kader. On the
+6th, at daybreak, the column came upon the Arab encampments. The
+artillery opened, the infantry moved on at the double, the cavalry
+charged.</p>
+
+<p>The Arabs, surprised, bewildered and stupefied, made but a
+straggling and ineffectual defence. Finally they decamped, leaving
+their herds and their flocks, and many women and children, in the
+enemy’s hands. Suddenly their retrograde<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_39">[39]</span> movement appeared, to the astonishment of the
+French, to be stopped; their numbers, as if by enchantment, to be
+increased; their attitude to have become offensive. Abdel Kader had
+arrived.</p>
+
+<p>Divining his adversary’s intention in leaving Mostaganem, he had
+ceased to superintend the siege in person, and had rushed to the
+point more directly menaced. He came up at the critical moment. It
+cost him little to turn the tide of battle. The French infantry
+beat a rapid retreat, some in hastily-formed squares, some in
+broken file; the cavalry maintained a flying flight; the artillery
+alone did good service. Anticipating an easy conquest, the French
+had not brought provisions. They were now driven from their spoil.
+The pangs of hunger and thirst assailed them. The scorching sun
+blazed over their heads. The Arabs presently enveloped them on all
+sides.</p>
+
+<p>“Fire the plains!” cried Abdel Kader. Instantly hundreds of
+horsemen galloped off, and lighted the dry herbs and brushwood
+extending behind the French rear. The unfortunate soldiery,
+retarded in their march by the wounded, whom they nobly refused to
+abandon, had to tread on burning cinders and wade through sheets of
+flame. Human nature sank beneath the trial. Many flung away their
+arms. Some were suffocated; others, in their despair, threw
+themselves frantically on the ground, eager to part with their
+lives, of which the Arab yataghans soon relieved them.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels had been apprised by some fugitives of the disasters
+which had befallen the expedition. The whole garrison of Oran was
+promptly turned out to rush to the rescue. The troops barely
+reached the ground in time to save their comrades from utter
+annihilation.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span>Abdel Kader, in
+the full flush of victory, returned without delay to hasten on the
+siege of Mostaganem. It is difficult to say whether most admiration
+should be bestowed on the boldness of his design, or on the courage
+and perseverance which so nearly accomplished it. Abdel Kader had
+no siege artillery; he possessed only infantry and cavalry. The
+infantry had already made themselves masters of the suburbs, and
+were attacking one of the forts close to the sea. A French brig
+galled them with its fire. The Arabs stripped, swam off, holding
+their muskets over their heads, and attempted to board it. They
+were driven off; but the fearless audacity thus displayed shows how
+much may be achieved by Arabs when commanded and inspired by a
+spirited leader. Abdel Kader had commenced sapping. The sap reached
+the foot of the walls. An explosion effected a breach. The order
+for a general assault was given. The Arabs, led on and animated by
+the voice and example of their Sultan, rolled on like a mighty
+wave, and like a wave, dashed and receded. The French, lining the
+tops of the wall on either side, poured in such a flanking fire on
+the assailants, that after a desperate struggle they were hurled
+back in confusion. Abdel Kader, finding his last resource
+exhausted, raised the siege and returned to Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>Though Abdel Kader had already done sufficient to justify and
+secure the confidence of his immediate companions in arms, and
+(despite the jealousies of certain chiefs) to centre on himself the
+hopes and good wishes of all the tribes within the province of
+Oran, yet the force of circumstances had compelled some of the
+latter, however anxious to rally round his standard, to submit to
+the invaders.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span>The Douairs and
+Zmelas, constantly exposed, by their vicinity, to the incursions of
+the French, had suffered losses which the pardonable instincts of
+nature had induced them to repair by an apparently friendly
+accommodation with an enemy whom they inwardly detested. Strangers
+to that spirit of self-abnegation which true patriotism requires,
+they had consented to purchase a momentary tranquillity by
+accepting French protection. By a treaty with Desmichels they had
+established themselves under the French flag, in the valley of
+Miserghin, three leagues distant from Oran.</p>
+
+<p>The lofty policy of Abdel Kader could ill brook such a glaring
+violation of the clear and unequivocal injunctions of the Koran.
+That sacred volume neither countenanced nor admitted the principle
+of expediency. To conquer or to die, sword in hand, for the Faith,
+was its uncompromising and inexorable dogma. Zealous interpreter
+and dauntless defender of that soul-inspiring mandate in all its
+heroic greatness, Abdel Kader made it his imperative duty to uphold
+it with ceaseless and untiring vigilance, and to visit its
+slightest infraction with unsparing rigour.</p>
+
+<p>Independently of this superior and all-sufficient consideration,
+he well foresaw that if vicinity to the enemy was to be made the
+pretext for submission, and hardship and suffering the signal for
+treason, the views which he entertained for the working out of the
+salvation of his country would speedily be dissolved, his plans for
+its regeneration become illusory, and his utmost efforts for their
+realisation abortive. He knew that the edifice he was so
+laboriously erecting, thus breached at its very base, would crumble
+away like a rope of sand.</p>
+
+<p>He considered, consequently, that to condone, to
+overlook,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span> or to
+excuse such weakness, whatever the plea advanced, would be
+tantamount to abandoning the trust which had been solemnly
+committed into his hands, and the task which he had sworn to
+accomplish. The alternative presented to him might be ungracious,
+it might be painful; but, calm and unshaken in the purity of his
+conscience, firm and confiding in the goodness of his cause, he
+accepted it.</p>
+
+<p>Whilst maintaining a bold front to the enemy, it might become
+incumbent on him so to act as to become an object of terror rather
+than of love, to hundreds, perhaps thousands, of his own
+countrymen. His severity might be called oppression, his exactions
+and punishments might be stigmatised as tyranny. But at whatever
+cost to the sufferers, at whatever detriment to his own popularity,
+he determined to make it understood and felt throughout the tribes,
+as a policy indispensable to the common welfare, that in him alone
+was vested the prerogatives of making peace, or signing conditions;
+he resolved, therefore, to impress on the minds of all the tribes,
+that if any accepted terms from the French on their own account,
+their last and heaviest account would be with him. The Douairs and
+Zmelas in due time experienced this correcting discipline.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span><a id=
+"c04"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1833.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> enthusiasm excited in
+France by the taking of Algiers was of short duration. A revolution
+had overthrown the dynasty of the elder branch of the House of
+Bourbon, under whose auspices the conquest had been achieved. The
+dark cloud of hatred and execration which enveloped the departed
+tyranny, threw its ominous shadow over the glories of that
+brilliant feat of arms.</p>
+
+<p>Willingness to abandon the fruits of a triumph obtained under
+such circumstances became the prevalent feeling. In the French
+Chambers a large party denounced the contemplated occupation of
+Algeria as costly and useless. Some suggested that the sea-coast
+towns should be held, not so much with views of aggrandisement, as
+from a desire of saving the national honour.</p>
+
+<p>None understood, and few troubled themselves to investigate, the
+nature of the country which was the subject of debate. All knew
+that Algeria was a nest of pirates, that the governors were
+barbarous Turks, and that the government were degraded Arabs. But
+what was the condition of the interior, what were the manners,
+customs, and social characteristics of the people, what kind of
+government would best replace the one which had been overthrown,
+what<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span> system of
+administration should be adopted, no one attempted duly to
+consider. On all these points the ignorance and indifference was
+complete.</p>
+
+<p>Fluctuating in its plans, and unwilling to release its grasp,
+the French ministry, at an early period, reduced its army in
+Algeria to 10,000 men. For a long time afterwards, all its measures
+were marked by weakness and indecision. In the space of six years,
+no less than ten governor-generals were sent over to
+experimentalise on new theories of legislation. The thread of
+official experience was constantly broken by the arrival of
+successive neophytes in the art of governing. Each new actor
+appeared on the stage with his peculiar crotchets, which he crudely
+endeavoured to carry into execution.</p>
+
+<p>In the autumn of 1830, Marshal Clausel, the Governor-General,
+proposed to entrust the provinces of Oran and Tittery to princes of
+the family of the Bey of Tunis, on the condition of their becoming
+vassals of France. He gave Oran, accordingly, to Prince Sidi
+Achmet, for an annual tribute of one million francs. The prince,
+uncertain as to his reception by the Arabs of that province,
+prudently sent before him a deputy, named Heir-ed-deen, to feel the
+way. This functionary, on his arrival, found the city nearly
+deserted, and the magazines void of provisions.</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, he proceeded to feel his ground. He issued a
+proclamation to the Arabs, giving them the most flattering
+assurances of his future intentions. They were told that the French
+had not the slightest desire to interfere with their established
+usages and customs; that they would confine themselves to the
+occupation of the sea-coast towns; and that<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_45">[45]</span> the tribes in the interior should be
+governed by native chiefs of their own selection. Some Arab sheiks,
+seduced by these promises, came in, and received pelisses, and
+other marks of honour. They returned to their tribes, but to become
+objects of ridicule. The plan proved utterly abortive. It neither
+awakened hopes, nor dispelled fears. After a few weeks, the agent
+of the prince withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>To the immense advantages which accrued to him from the
+fluctuations and failures which embarrassed the councils of the
+French government, Abdel Kader was daily adding those solid results
+which arose from his own energy and courage. The fruits of the
+impulse which he had imparted to his countrymen were becoming more
+apparent. Confidence, if not victory, followed everywhere in his
+train. The Arab character was developing long-concealed virtues
+from its inmost depths. Patience, constancy, perseverance,
+concentration of purpose, and a spirit of union, had all been
+summoned to the surface under the presiding genius of Abdel
+Kader.</p>
+
+<p>His principal care was to get rid of all the causes likely to
+endanger the common weal, or to disturb his general line of action.
+The edict which he had issued, forbidding all commercial
+transactions with the French, had borne heavily on some of the
+tribes, who had long been accustomed to trade with the towns now in
+French possession. The fruits of a traffic exercised from
+generation to generation, and the enormous profits actually reaped,
+were advantages not easily foregone. But, by the influence of
+certain Marabouts, who, by the order of Abdel Kader, were moving
+constantly amongst them, more patriotic feelings were made to
+prevail. The Arabs ceased to frequent the French markets.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span>The system of
+blockade enforced by Abdel Kader had a telling effect on the French
+garrisons. They depended almost entirely on the Arabs for the
+necessaries of life. The sea brought them little or nothing, and
+only at rare intervals. Hence the nervous anxiety, leading to acts
+of violence, with which, like birds of prey, they scented and
+pounced upon their food in the interior. Whilst Desmichels was
+revolving in his mind in what manner he could, without lowering his
+dignity, bring about negotiations with Abdel Kader, and relieve him
+from his pressing wants and necessities, there occurred an event
+which opened the door to a transaction.</p>
+
+<p>Towards the end of October, 1833, an Arab, named Kudoor, of the
+Borgia tribe, came to Arzew and sold some cattle. On his departure
+he asked the French commanding officer to give him an escort, as he
+dreaded the Sultan’s scouts, whom he knew to be on the look-out. An
+escort of four horsemen was given him. At the distance of about a
+league from the town the escort was attacked by a large force of
+Arabs. One man was killed; the three others were taken prisoners
+and carried to Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels, only too happy to have a plausible pretext for
+writing to Abdel Kader, now addressed him the following
+letter:—</p>
+
+<p>“I do not hesitate to make the first advances to you. My
+position, strictly speaking, does not allow me to do so, but
+humanity compels me. I reclaim the liberty of those Frenchmen who,
+while engaged in escorting an Arab, fell into an ambuscade. I
+cannot suppose that you will make their release dependent on
+conditions, since, when by the fate of war some of the Zmelas and
+Gharabas were not long since brought<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_47">[47]</span> in to me, as prisoners, I at once sent them
+back to their tribes, without any stipulation, and treated them,
+moreover, with the greatest kindness.</p>
+
+<p>“If, therefore, you wish to be considered a great man, I hope
+you will not be behind me in generosity, and that you will
+immediately release the Frenchmen who are now in your power.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader returned the following reply:—</p>
+
+<p>“I have received the letter, in which you express your hope that
+the prisoners to whom you allude will be liberated. I understand
+its contents. You tell me that, notwithstanding your position, you
+have consented to make me the first advances. It was your duty to
+do so, according to the rules of war. Between enemies, each has his
+turn: one day the chances are for you, another for me. The mill
+turns for both, and always crushing new victims.</p>
+
+<p>“As for myself, when you have taken prisoners, I never troubled
+you with reclamations in their behalf. I was pained, as a man, for
+their unhappy fate; but, as a Mussulman, I looked upon their death,
+if it occurred, as a new life. You tell me that your Frenchmen were
+employed to protect an Arab. That is no reason with me. Protectors
+and protected were alike my enemies; and all Arabs who are found
+with you are bad believers, ignorant of their duty.</p>
+
+<p>“You boast that you gratuitously liberated some of the Gharabas
+and Zmelas. That is true. But you surprised men who were living
+under your protection, and who were actually supplying your own
+markets. Your troops robbed them of all they had. If, instead of
+falling on those who were doing you a service, you had advanced
+beyond your lines; if you<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_48">[48]</span> had attacked men who were anxiously waiting
+for you, such as the Beni Amers and the Hashems, then you might,
+with justice, talk of your generosity, had you taken prisoners from
+them, and set them free.</p>
+
+<p>“Then you would have deserved the praises you claim for yourself
+for having pillaged the Zmelas, and setting about the report that I
+had fallen into your hands. When you march two days beyond the
+walls of Oran I hope we shall behold each other; and then it will
+be seen which of us will remain master of the field.”</p>
+
+<p>This haughty challenge would, under other circumstances, have
+aroused in the breast of the French general the loftiest feelings
+of chivalry. The drums would have been beat, the trumpets sounded,
+the standards fluttered, and the Arab champion would have been
+swiftly summoned to the test. Desmichels retorted by again
+attacking and plundering the Douairs and Zmelas. Abdel Kader was
+amongst the Beni Amers when he heard of the incursion.</p>
+
+<p>He was instantly at the head of 5,000 cavalry, and rushed to the
+rescue. With slackened reins and thundering hoofs, the Arab horse
+traversed a distance of fifty miles in less than three hours. Not
+more than one-half of the men, on his arrival, were fit for duty.
+But with these troops Abdel Kader charged. The French, utterly
+confounded by this unexpected apparition, hastily retreated,
+abandoning the women and children, whom they had taken with them,
+as hostages. Fresh troops come up to their relief, with more pieces
+of artillery; but, despite the galling fire to which he was
+exposed, Abdel Kader followed up the enemy, and hovered round them,
+to the very outskirts of Oran.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span>On his return to
+the Arab encampment he ordered the Douairs and Zmelas to prepare
+for immediate departure from a spot where temptations to transgress
+his edict were constantly held out to them, and where they were as
+continually exposed to vile and cruel assaults. He marched them
+off, with all their flocks and herds, and located them on a large
+plain behind Tlemsen.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels, paralysed by the boldness and ubiquity of his
+redoubtable foe, and finding his resources failing, his supplies
+cut off, and famine ready to swoop down on his men, saw no
+alternative before him but evacuation or peace. In this dire
+necessity he thus appealed to Abdel Kader:—</p>
+
+<p>“You will never find me deaf to any sentiments of generosity,
+and if it would be convenient to you to grant me an interview, I am
+quite ready to consent, in the hope that we may be able, by the
+most sacred and solemn treaties, to stop the effusion of blood
+between two peoples destined by Providence to live under the same
+dominion.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader seeing his adversary in the attitude of a suppliant,
+affected indifference. He left the letter unanswered. At the same
+time he employed a Jew, named Mordecai Amar, his agent at Oran, to
+pacify the French general with excuses, if any complaint were made
+as to his silence, and to suggest the advisability of more explicit
+and categorical propositions. After a month had transpired,
+Desmichels penned a third dispatch:—</p>
+
+<p>“Not having received any answer to the letter I lately wrote to
+you, I prefer supposing that it has never reached you, to imagining
+that you have not chosen to give it your attention.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span>The general
+terminated his reasonings by imploring for peace as follows:—“If
+you wish to maintain the exalted position to which circumstances
+have raised you, in my opinion you could not do better than accept
+my invitation, in order that the tribes may devote themselves to
+the cultivation of their lands, and enjoy the fruits and the
+blessings of peace, under the shadow of treaties binding us firmly
+together.”</p>
+
+<p>The young and victorious Sultan, with this document in his hand,
+could now show his subjects that the enemy had been the first to
+crave for a suspension of hostilities. There was no occasion for
+any further delay, and he sent the following answer:—</p>
+
+<p>“I have received your letter, and fully understand its contents.
+It gives me great satisfaction to find that your sentiments agree
+with mine. I feel quite assured of your loyal intentions; and you
+may feel assured that any engagements into which we may enter shall
+be faithfully observed on my part. I send you two superior officers
+of my army—Miloud ibn Arasch and Ould Mahmoud. They will confer,
+outside Oran, with Mordecai Amar, and will make known to him any
+proposition. If you accept them, you can send him on to me, and
+then we will draw up a treaty, which shall obliterate the hatred
+and enmity now severing us from each other, and replace them by an
+indissoluble friendship. You may count upon me, for I have never
+been unfaithful to my word.”</p>
+
+<p>The proposed interview took place February 4, 1834. The Jew Amar
+was accompanied by the whole of the French staff. A long discussion
+ensued on various propositions made by Desmichels. The Sultan’s
+agent, Ibn Arasch, then left,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_51">[51]</span> saying he would report what had passed to his
+master, and return. He took with him a paper containing a draft of
+the propositions, but without the general’s signature.</p>
+
+<p>On the 25th, Ibn Arasch returned to Oran, bearing this draft,
+approved and sealed by Abdel Kader, with another paper, containing
+the propositions of Abdel Kader. He was instructed not to deliver
+the former until the latter had been signed and sealed by
+Desmichels. Abdel Kader conceived that these documents, mutually
+exchanged, would constitute the Treaty. Their substance was as
+follows:—</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15 space-below1"><span class=
+"sc">Conditions of General Desmichels.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“1. Hostilities shall cease between the French and the Arabs
+from this day.</p>
+
+<p>“2. The religion and usages of the Mussulmans shall be
+respected.</p>
+
+<p>“3. French prisoners shall be given up.</p>
+
+<p>“4. The markets shall be free.</p>
+
+<p>“5. Every French deserter shall be given up by the Arabs.</p>
+
+<p>“6. Every Christian travelling in the interior shall be
+furnished with a passport sealed with the seal of Abdel Kader’s
+consul, and that of the General.”</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15 space-below1"><span class=
+"sc">Conditions of the Sultan Abdel Kader.</span>
+</p>
+
+<p>“1. The Arabs shall be at liberty to buy and sell powder, arms,
+sulphur; in a word, everything necessary for war.</p>
+
+<p>“2. The commerce of the port of Arzew shall be under the
+jurisdiction of the Prince of the Faithful. No cargoes shall be
+shipped except in that port. Mostaganem and Oran<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span> shall merely receive such
+articles of merchandise as are necessary for the wants of their
+inhabitants. To this there shall be no opposition. Those who wish
+to ship goods must repair to Arzew.</p>
+
+<p>“3. The General shall give us up all deserters in chains. He
+shall not harbour criminals. The general commanding at Algiers
+shall have no power over Arabs who may come to him with the consent
+of their chiefs.</p>
+
+<p>“4. No Mussulman shall be prevented returning home when he
+wishes.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">To the paper containing these conditions
+of Abdel Kader, Desmichels, who dreaded nothing so much as the
+breaking off of the negotiation, at once affixed his seal and
+signature. The former naturally thought that, by virtue of the 2nd
+Article, he had secured a monopoly of commerce.</p>
+
+<p>On the 26th February, 1834, Desmichels proposed to Ibn Arasch,
+that a homogeneous treaty should be drawn up, embodying the
+substance of both documents, but stating the French conditions more
+at large. Ibn Arasch made no difficulty, never conceiving for a
+moment that such a document could be intended to abrogate the
+conditions already conceded to his master, in the paper which had
+just been signed and sealed by the general. Hence arose the “Treaty
+of Desmichels,” which afterwards gave rise to so many difficulties
+and complications.</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15 space-below1"><span class=
+"sc">Treaty of General Desmichels</span>, <em>February</em> 26,
+1834.</p>
+
+<p>“The General commanding the French troops in the town of Oran,
+and the Prince of the Faithful, Sidi-il-Hadj Abdel<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span> Kader-ibn-Mehi-ed-deen, have
+decided on the following conditions:—</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 1.—Hostilities shall cease between the French and the
+Arabs from this day. The General commanding the French troops and
+the Emir Abdel Kader will neglect nothing to maintain that union
+and friendship which ought to exist between two peoples, destined
+by God to live under the same dominion. To this end,
+representatives on the part of the Emir shall reside at Oran,
+Mostaganem, and Arzew; and, to prevent collisions between the
+French and the Arabs, French officers shall reside at Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 2.—The religion and usages of the Arabs shall be
+respected.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 3.—All prisoners shall be immediately given up, both on
+one side and the other.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 4.—Freedom of commerce shall be complete and entire.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 5.—Military men belonging to the French army, who desert
+their colours, shall be brought back by the Arabs. In like manner,
+all Arab malefactors, who, to avoid punishment, fly from their
+tribes and seek refuge with the French, shall be immediately seized
+and delivered over to the Emir’s representative, in the three
+maritime towns occupied by the French.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 6.—Every European, having occasion to travel in the
+interior, shall be furnished with a passport countersigned by the
+representatives of the Emir, and approved by the General in
+command, in order that they may find assistance and protection
+throughout the province.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">These conditions, written in parallel
+columns of Arab and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span>
+French, were signed and sealed by both parties. Nothing is said in
+this treaty of a monopoly of commerce. But Abdel Kader had his
+bond, and was content. Desmichels, proud of what he considered a
+diplomatic triumph, hastened to send the grateful tidings of a
+peace to the French ministry, and allowed himself to indulge in the
+following strain:—</p>
+
+<p>“I have to announce to you the <em>submission</em> of the
+province of Oran, the most considerable and warlike of the regency.
+This great event is the result of the advantages which have been
+obtained by the troops of my division.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader might well repose on his laurels. He had compelled
+his enemy to sue for peace; he had made his own terms; he paid no
+tribute; his territory was not limited; the French general had
+acknowledged his independence by offering him the power to appoint
+and receive consuls. The French were to load at one port alone, and
+were to submit to his tariff.</p>
+
+<p>In virtue of the monopoly secured to him by his own terms, Abdel
+Kader now issued orders, prohibiting the Arabs from selling corn,
+or barley, or agricultural produce, of any kind whatever, to
+Christians, whether native or foreign. His agents were declared to
+be the sole authorised buyers and sellers, and by them the prices
+in the markets were to be fixed.</p>
+
+<p>The French merchants at Arzew complained loudly to Desmichels of
+the restriction. Abdel Kader appealed to his bond. Desmichels
+affected to ignore it. He adhered to his homogeneous treaty, in
+which commerce was declared free. Abdel Kader agreed to the test,
+but contended that though the market <em>places</em> (or
+<em>sook</em>) were free, he had the sole right of supplying
+them.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span>One of the French
+merchants, acting upon the view of the question, as put forward by
+the French general, bought a large quantity of corn and barley from
+an Arab of the tribe of Hamian. The agent of Abdel Kader went over
+and seized it. The merchant complained to the French local
+authorities, but he was told that no interference could be
+tolerated with the regulations of the Emir.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels, embarrassed with fresh complaints, and pressed for
+explanation by General Voirol, the governor-general, to whom all
+this misunderstanding was utterly incomprehensible, adopted a
+middle course. He declared that the authorisation given to the Emir
+to make a monopoly of grain, extended only to the grain raised on
+his own private property. Abdel Kader ridiculed the subterfuge. He
+knew nothing of the exclusive interpretation which Desmichels chose
+to put upon his treaty; he only knew that he had the General’s seal
+and signature to a document granting him a monopoly; and this
+monopoly he was determined to enact. The French were not in a
+position to dispute his verdict; and he carried his point.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, free at length from external molestation, devoted
+his earnest attention to the internal affairs of his kingdom.
+Difficulties and trials were yet before him. Jealousy of his
+successes on the part of some, envy at the eminence he had attained
+on the part of others, insinuations malevolently propagated by his
+rivals, and readily entertained by the fanatical party, that he had
+betrayed the sacred cause by making peace with the infidels—all
+combined, as disturbing elements, to affect, more or less, the
+stability of his government.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span>But his retort was
+ready. To the taunting demand, “Where is now the leader of the
+Djehad—where the lofty tone which breathed nothing but battle and
+defiance, and invoked death rather than submission?” he replied by
+calmly pointing to the French garrisons, confined to the walls on
+which their cannon was planted; to the plains freed from infidel
+marauders; to the cities unmolested by Frank invaders; and, more
+than all, to a treaty, dictated at his sword’s point, which now,
+for the first time in the lapse of ages, gave good warranty for
+hopes of Arab freedom, and which promised to be the basis of Arab
+independence.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[57]</span><a id=
+"c05"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1834.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Abdel Kader</span> now entered on
+the task of organisation. He trusted but little to the pacific
+professions of the French, and looked on the present cessation of
+hostilities merely as an armed truce. He resolved, consequently, to
+make use of the breathing time thus afforded, in maturing his
+plans, husbanding his resources, and preparing for future battles.
+Declaring the Djehad to be only suspended, not abandoned, he issued
+his usual edict for the collection of the war-tribute, consisting
+of the <em>ashur</em>, or tenth of all agricultural produce, and
+the <em>zekka</em>, or tax on cattle.</p>
+
+<p>To his astonishment, the most faithful of all his tribes, his
+most zealous adherents, the very men who had been the guardians and
+supporters of his nascent power, and by whose aid he had been
+enabled to inflict his most deadly blows, refused obedience. The
+Beni Amers asserted that cessation of impost was, in their eyes,
+the legitimate consequence of cessation of war.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader hesitated not a moment. The Beni Amers must be
+attacked. Writing to Mustapha-ibn-Ismail at Tlemsen, he ordered him
+to prepare the Douairs and Zmelas for instant action. That old and
+wily leader of the Turkish <em>Maghzen</em>, desiring nothing
+better than to have an<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_58">[58]</span> opportunity of falling on his old and mortal
+enemies, and rejoicing in the prospect of plunder, joyfully
+accepted the summons, and boastfully enlarged on the loyalty of his
+tribes. An unexpected incident turned the tide of events.</p>
+
+<p>As Abdel Kader was preaching one Friday, as was his wont, in the
+mosque of Mascara, his eye lighted on some of the Beni Amer Sheiks.
+Suddenly turning the stream of his eloquence, he thus apostrophised
+them:—“Were not you, O Beni Amers, the first to call me to the post
+I now hold? Were not you the first to implore me to establish a
+regular government, which should inspire the good with confidence,
+and the wicked with terror?</p>
+
+<p>“Did you not solemnly pledge your lives, your properties, and
+all that you held most dear and sacred, to assist and strengthen me
+in the arduous task? And will you be the first to abandon the
+common cause, the first, by your example, to countenance and
+encourage conspiracies against the very government you invoked? How
+can any government be carried on without taxes, how maintained
+without the cordial union and support of all?</p>
+
+<p>“Think you that the smallest coin of the tribute which I demand,
+will ever be appropriated to my personal or family expenses? You
+all know that my paternal property suffices for my own needs. What
+I demand is what the law of the Prophet renders it imperative on
+you, as good Mussulmans, to give; and in my hands, I solemnly
+swear, it will be held as a sacred trust, for the triumph of the
+faith!”</p>
+
+<p>Moved by this frank appeal, the Beni Amer Sheiks demanded a
+conference. The throng pressed around them. All ranks and ages
+joined their entreaties to effect an accommodation.<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_59">[59]</span> Thus surrounded, the Sheiks
+advanced towards their young Sultan, and kissed his hand. In the
+name of their tribe, they promised to pay the tribute. Orders were
+forthwith despatched to Mustapha to suspend his march on the Beni
+Amers.</p>
+
+<p>Three days afterwards, a horseman came riding in at full speed,
+to say that Mustapha had, notwithstanding, commenced an attack.
+Abdel Kader, hastily gathering together such horsemen as were
+within reach, galloped off to the scene of action.</p>
+
+<p>On arriving, he sent word to Mustapha to withdraw. On his
+refusal to obey the order, Abdel Kader advanced to charge his
+recalcitrant chief. A few only of the Beni Amers followed. After a
+desperate skirmish, Abdel Kader had the mortification to see his
+men dispersed, and flying before superior numbers. A handful of men
+alone remained to rally round his person. Animated by the example
+of their chief, they fought with desperation. Nearly all were
+killed, or dismounted. At last, after performing prodigies of
+valour, Abdel Kader, his burnous riddled with bullets, and his
+horse covered with wounds, cut his way through the hostile ranks
+which closed him in, and galloped back to Mascara. He reached it
+late at night—alone.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader defeated by the Arabs! The news spread like
+wildfire. In an instant all slumbering rivalries were aroused.
+Sidi-il-Aribi raised the standard of revolt. El Gomari, and the
+Beni Engad, prepared to join Sidi Hamadi, the Governor of Tlemsen,
+who entered into correspondence with Mustapha.</p>
+
+<p>The tidings of these defections, so far from oppressing the soul
+of Abdel Kader with despondency, only nerved him<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_60">[60]</span> with fresh vigour. The Hashem
+Gharabas, the Mejahers, the Beni Abbas, were staunch. The Beni
+Amers had confirmed the adhesion given in by their Sheiks, at
+Mascara. He could wield a force of 15,000 cavalry. With a large
+proportion of these he at once took the field.</p>
+
+<p>Mustapha had led off the Douairs and Zmelas to their old
+campaigning ground near Oran, in the hopes of propitiating the
+French, and getting their support. To his disgust, he was warned by
+the latter of the consequences which would ensue if he persisted in
+rebelling against Abdel Kader, the ally of France.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels had found out by bitter experience, the impossibility
+of conquering the province of Oran, with such forces as his
+government had placed at his disposal. The plan of raising up a
+native power to supply this deficiency, and to assist in extending
+the French dominions, either as vassals or allies, seemed to him to
+afford the easiest method for escaping from a serious dilemma. He
+was dazzled by the great and commanding qualities displayed by
+Abdel Kader, and always took a pleasure in extolling his heroism,
+his prowess, and even his generalship. He seemed almost to envy and
+covet his glory.</p>
+
+<p>Desmichels was known to have frequently declared that he would
+make the young Arab Emir all powerful, from the frontiers of
+Morocco to the frontiers of Tunis. No doubt this declaration was
+made with the mental reserve that the gallant chief should only be
+so as the vassal of France. Abdel Kader, fully understanding the
+profitable tendency to himself of this exuberant admiration, cared
+not to dispel an illusion which marvellously promoted his own
+designs. He was secretly bent, however, on preserving a
+perfectly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[61]</span> independent
+position, and on confining his allies to their counting-houses on
+the sea-coast.</p>
+
+<p>Mustapha having been thus kept in check, Abdel Kader fell with
+his whole force upon Sidi-il-Aribi, enveloped him in a crushing
+defeat, and took him prisoner. At the same time he inflicted on the
+rebellious tribes a signal chastisement, and collected all the
+arrears of tribute. Flushed by this victory, he now sought out
+Mustapha. He met him on the plains of Mahraz, July 13, 1834. The
+battle between the hostile chiefs raged for some hours with
+alternate success. At last, both sides, worn out with fatigue, and
+fainting with the heat, drew breath.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader seized the moment to send some Marabouts through the
+enemy’s ranks, to offer terms. Mustapha, fearing an attack from the
+French, who had advanced as far as the camp of Miserghin, and were
+in observation, was nothing loath to listen to any propositions
+which might relieve him from his perilous situation. Though
+declining a personal meeting with Abdel Kader, he sent him his
+charger in token of reconciliation.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader now marched upon Tlemsen. His appearance before that
+town, with all the prestige of victory, at once annihilated the
+intrigues of which that place had been the focus. His faithless
+lieutenant, Sidi Hamadi, was seized and imprisoned, but afterwards
+generously pardoned, although not allowed to retain his post. This
+was conferred on Noona, who after his late defeat had fled to
+Morocco, and had returned, bearing letters of recommendation from
+the Moorish Sultan.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader entered Mascara in triumph. Two events<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_62">[62]</span> had occurred during his absence,
+which materially aided him. El Gomari, chief of the Beni Engad, had
+been tried before a tribunal, and shot; and Sidi-il-Aribi had died
+in prison. Freed from these rivals, and unimpeded by internal
+faction, he was again at liberty to carry out his measures of
+general administration.</p>
+
+<p>The province of Oran was divided into two great districts, and
+placed under khalifas, or lieutenants. That of the east, subdivided
+into seven agalicks, and having Mascara as the seat of government,
+was placed under the command of the Sultan’s brother-in-law,
+Mustapha-ibn-Tamy. That of the west, with Tlemsen for its capital,
+was entrusted to Bou Hamadi. Every tribe was held responsible for
+the peace and good order of its locality. Weekly reports were
+required, as to the amount of cattle, beasts of burden, and horses
+fit for service in each agalick. A Cadi, appointed by the Sultan,
+and paid out of the public treasury, was sent to each of the
+tribes, to administer justice.</p>
+
+<p>A body of regulars was raised, consisting both of cavalry and
+infantry. The latter were drilled and instructed by French
+non-commissioned officers, who had been allowed to offer their
+services for that purpose. Cannon-foundries, powder-mills, and
+manufactories of small arms, were established and superintended by
+European artisans. The Arabs wondered at these strange and novel
+proceedings. They felt that a new order of things had suddenly
+fallen on them.</p>
+
+<p>This, together with the vigilance with which crimes were
+detected, and the certainty and severity of its punishment, soon
+had its effect on the community. The entire province, which
+eighteen months previously had been a prey to every<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_63">[63]</span> kind of anarchy and confusion,
+now enjoyed the most thorough tranquillity. So complete was the
+feeling of security which existed in all parts, that, to use the
+favourite Arab illustration of the perfection of good government,
+“A girl might have travelled the length and breadth of the land
+with a casket of diamonds on her head, without fear of
+molestation.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader’s fame had now spread through Algeria. It was
+generally felt, that a man had arisen who had not only shown
+himself capable of preserving order within, but who, by his skill
+and daring, had succeeded in imposing conditions on the infidels
+from without. The eyes of all the well-disposed naturally turned
+towards one who had achieved such signal results.</p>
+
+<p>The inhabitants of Medea and Miliana, the principal towns in the
+province of Tittery, sent deputations to Abdel Kader, begging him
+to do for their province what he had already done for the province
+of Oran. Had he been free to act on his own inspirations,
+forty-eight hours would not have elapsed before he had been on the
+march in compliance with their request. The invitation was not only
+flattering to his pride, as showing the influence his name
+exercised over parties utterly unknown to him, but offered—what in
+his eyes was its strongest inducement—a further opening for the
+prosecution of the great object he had in view, the establishment
+of a widely-extended Arab nationality.</p>
+
+<p>The Treaty of Desmichels in no way precluded him from entering
+Tittery; for that treaty had not confined him within any prescribed
+limits. Still he was not disposed to undertake the enterprise
+without first ascertaining how such a<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_64">[64]</span> step would be viewed by the French
+authorities. Contenting himself, therefore, for the present, with
+replying to the deputations, that he required time to consider
+their demands, he proceeded to fathom the thoughts of Count
+D’Erlon, the new Governor-General, on the momentous topic. The
+recent arrival of that personage gave him an opportunity of
+broaching the delicate question without appearing to make it a
+special subject of negotiation.</p>
+
+<p>Under the garb of a letter of felicitation to the general on his
+appointment, the following feeler was adroitly put forward:—“The
+Kaid, Miloud ibn Arasch, will give you every particular about us. I
+have instructed him to ascertain your views as to the best manner
+of establishing tranquillity in all the districts, whether maritime
+or in the interior, along the coasts between Algiers and Oran, and
+in the plains and the mountains, from Tlemsen and Mascara, <em>up
+to Medea and Miliana</em>.”</p>
+
+<p>Count D’Erlon had come to assume the arduous and responsible
+duties which now devolved upon him, without any clear instructions,
+and without any additional force. The French government, still
+uncertain as to its European relations, had neither money nor
+troops to spare for the prosecution of an Algerian war on a great
+scale. A vague idea possessed it that Abdel Kader was the ladder by
+which the French were to scale the heights of the Atlas. To keep on
+good terms with this influential chief was, consequently, at this
+period, a cardinal point of French policy.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, the reply of Count D’Erlon to Abdel Kader consisted
+of vague generalities, and Was altogether couched in such terms,
+that the latter had every ground to believe no<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_65">[65]</span> measures would be taken to oppose his
+proposed step if he only had the boldness to take it. Still he felt
+the necessity of having his actual rights confirmed by the new
+Governor-General before assuming new ones; and to this end he sent
+the document containing his own terms, which had been duly signed
+and sealed by Desmichels, as above related, to the Count, for his
+perusal.</p>
+
+<p>D’Erlon, to whom even the existence of such a document was
+unknown, as it had never been notified to the French Government,
+was thunder-struck. Here was a French general, who had taken upon
+himself to sign a secret treaty, giving solid and exclusive
+advantages to an enemy whose hostility had not been disarmed, and
+whose friendship was doubtful. His representations to the French
+ministry relative to this extraordinary procedure were such, that
+they were speedily followed by the recall of Desmichels from
+Oran.</p>
+
+<p>At the same time he thus gave his opinion to Abdel Kader on the
+subject:—“I would wish you to observe, that General Desmichels had
+no power or jurisdiction, except in the province of Oran, and that
+he could in nowise make any stipulations as regards any other part
+of the regency. Even by giving the widest interpretation to the
+Treaty made between you and him, in February, 1834, you can have no
+pretensions beyond the province of Oran, limited as it has been by
+the sovereign power of France.</p>
+
+<p>“My desire for the present is, that you should not cross the
+lower Cheliff, towards the east. If you govern the territory you
+now possess according to Mohammedan laws, and with strict justice,
+we shall be friends; but we cannot allow you to enter the province
+of Tittery. What passes there is<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_66">[66]</span> my concern. I am not at war with its
+inhabitants; I have no fixed project of making establishments at
+Blidah and Bouffarick, but whenever I think it for the interest of
+France to do so, I shall allow no one to embarrass me.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader paused for the present before such an interdict.
+Besides, disturbances amongst the Flittas, in the valley of the
+Cheliff, excited against him by the sons of Sidi-il-Aribi, called
+for his immediate presence in that direction.</p>
+
+<p>While engaged in appeasing these troubles, he was surprised by
+the information that a certain Hadj Mousa, a shereef from the
+Sahara, had entered Medea, and had been warmly received by a large
+portion of the population. After waiting for a time to see what
+steps would be taken by the French Governor-General, and finding
+that no opposition to the assumptions of this adventurer was
+offered on the part of Count D’Erlon, Abdel Kader determined to
+exercise full liberty of action. If a shereef from the desert might
+snatch a province, why not he? Fortune is the friend of the bold,
+and the world is for him who will seize it. He dashed across the
+Cheliff, and marched on Medea, followed by all the cavalry
+contingents of Oran, two battalions of regular infantry, and four
+pieces of cannon. Cæsar had crossed the Rubicon.</p>
+
+<p>Hadj Mousa came out to meet him, prophesying that God would give
+him the victory, and that the cannon of Abdel Kader would not go
+off. Abdel Kader replied that if, indeed, his cannon did not go
+off, he would acknowledge a divine interposition, and withdraw. The
+battle was gained, and the prophet and pretender was completely
+defeated. Abdel<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[67]</span> Kader
+took possession, amidst general exultation, of the province of
+Tittery, and appointed Khalifas at Medea and Miliana.</p>
+
+<p>General Trezel, who had replaced Desmichels at Oran, proposed to
+reply to this movement of Abdel Kader by seizing Mascara. D’Erlon
+temporised. He was neither authorised nor prepared to commence
+hostilities. He even condescended to treat with Abdel Kader in the
+very town he had occupied in direct violation of his prohibition.
+Captain St. Hippolyte was sent to him, bearer of the following
+draft of a treaty:—</p>
+
+<p>1. Acknowledgment of the sovereignty of France.</p>
+
+<p>2. Precise definition of the power of the Emir, which is to be
+exercised in the province of Oran alone, bounded on the east by the
+Cheliff, from its mouth to its confluence with the Wady Riou, and
+by the river of that name up to Godjidah.</p>
+
+<p>3. Right of French and all Europeans to travel in the province
+of Oran.</p>
+
+<p>4. Entire freedom of commerce in the interior.</p>
+
+<p>5. Engagement on the part of the Emir not to export, except in
+ports occupied by the French.</p>
+
+<p>6. Tribute to be paid by Abdel Kader, and hostages to be given
+by him. The tribute to be considered a mark of his acknowledgment
+of French sovereignty.</p>
+
+<p>A treaty which thus abrogated, by a stroke of the pen, all the
+rights and privileges his own good sword had obtained, might
+apparently have been regarded by Abdel Kader as an insult or a
+defiance. But, in reality, it was the result of his own diplomacy.
+He had learned to appreciate the value and importance of the power
+to make treaties. He<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[68]</span>
+knew that this power implied an independent position, whether for
+proposing or accepting terms. Already a French general had, by
+treaty, acknowledged and confirmed his right to an independent
+sway, had saluted him as Emir, and Prince of the Faithful, or
+Sultan.</p>
+
+<p>Negotiations once opened with the new Governor-General might
+lead to similar concessions. What the nature of the propositions,
+presented to him in the first instance, might be, was to him a
+matter of supreme indifference. What he wanted, and what he
+earnestly urged his agent at Algiers to obtain from D’Erlon, was a
+treaty. He trusted to the chapter of accidents to mould any fresh
+negotiation to his own wishes.</p>
+
+<p>The employment of well-paid spies introduced him into the most
+secret councils of the French authorities. Able and crafty agents,
+accredited to the responsible heads of the French administration,
+in its various centres of action, were made the means of promoting
+his views and advancing his interests. These agents were instructed
+to gain the confidence of all important personages; to be always
+about them on some pretence or other; to be constantly extolling
+their master’s merits; and enlarging on his talents for
+administration; to speak loudly of his extraordinary influence in
+the country; and, finally, to insinuate the immense advantages
+which would accrue to France by having such a pioneer in the path
+of conquest.</p>
+
+<p>A Jew, of the name of Durand, had performed all these functions,
+at Algiers, with rare ability. He had easily contrived to get the
+ear of D’Erlon. He was consulted by him in all affairs of moment
+connected with the internal government<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_69">[69]</span> of the regency. He had gradually impressed
+him with a favourable opinion of his master; and he succeeded,
+finally, in drawing him into the current of credulous expectation
+with regard to the conduct of Abdel Kader, which had carried away
+more than one of his predecessors. In the meantime, he had wormed
+out of him the foregoing treaty, and was commissioned to accompany
+the bearer of it to Medea.</p>
+
+<p>There, though the treaty met with very little ceremony or
+attention, the bearer of the treaty received the most striking
+marks of friendship and hospitality. A grand review was held; and
+the French envoy gazed with dubious admiration on the nucleus of an
+Arab army. He was invited to accompany the Sultan on a tour of
+inspection about to be made through the provinces of Tittery and
+Oran. The offer was accepted; and Captain St. Hippolyte and the Jew
+Durand figured conspicuously in the royal suite.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader made the most of his time. Purposely going into
+those districts which had recently shown symptoms of disaffection,
+or were wavering in their allegiance to him, he secretly enjoyed
+the impression made on the tribes by the French uniform. What, they
+thought, must be the power of a chief who had made the infidels his
+vassals, and who could, no doubt, at any moment summon their armies
+to march to the support of his throne? Any resistance to such a
+potentate would be mere madness. Unqualified submission was their
+best and only alternative.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching Mascara, fresh tokens of politeness and cordiality
+awaited the distinguished guests. On the third day after their
+arrival, Abdel Kader put his own treaty into their hands. It was to
+this effect:—</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[70]</span>1. The provinces
+which are under the dominion of the Prince of the Faithful, and
+which are in submission, shall remain dependent on him. In like
+manner the country which the Governor-General actually holds shall
+remain under his dominion.</p>
+
+<p>2. Whenever the Emir shall think fit to appoint or to remove the
+Governors of Medea and Miliana, he will inform the
+Governor-General, that he may take note of the fact; and also make
+those functionaries the medium of any dispatch or communication he
+may have to convey to him.</p>
+
+<p>3. Freedom of commerce for all. The Arabs shall be respected in
+the markets by the French, and the French by the Arabs, in all the
+provinces under the dominion of the Emir.</p>
+
+<p>4. The Prince of the Faithful shall buy at Algiers, through his
+agent, everything he requires in the shape of mortars, muskets,
+powder, and sulphur.</p>
+
+<p>5. The Emir shall give up to the French all deserters; and the
+Governor-General will act similarly towards the Emir.</p>
+
+<p>6. If the Emir projects a tour towards Constantine or elsewhere,
+he will inform the Governor-General of his intention and of his
+motive for doing so.</p>
+
+<p>A treaty so ridiculously contrasting with the one sent for his
+acceptance by the French Governor-General, and which, so far from
+limiting his power, proposed to allow him to leap at one bound,
+from the gates of Oran to those of Constantine, and to make the
+French themselves the complaisant approvers of this encroachment,
+was certainly one which the Prince of the Faithful never expected
+to see accepted.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[71]</span>Perfectly
+comprehending, however, the exaggerated importance attached to his
+friendship and support by the French Government, and relying on the
+efficacy of those secret influences he had hitherto so successfully
+employed, Abdel Kader was not without hopes that by a strenuous and
+even overstrained assumption of right, and a bold avowal of design,
+dimly suggestive of reserved strength, he might at all events
+procure such a treaty as should enhance the advantages he actually
+possessed, strengthen his position, enlarge his sphere of action,
+and still further dispel the clouds which yet obscured the
+brilliant vista of glory lying before him.</p>
+
+<p>Up to this time he had succeeded in almost all he had
+undertaken. His faith in his mission, always strong and unshaken,
+now possessed his mind with the strength of a religious conviction.
+By inspiring all around him with a like confidence and belief, this
+faith became to him an instrument of power. His past success was
+accepted as a sure omen of future triumphs. A French officer, about
+this time, advised him, out of honest sympathy and regard, not to
+be presumptuously confident. “What!” replied Abdel Kader, “it is
+but three years since I was simply one of my father’s five sons,
+and obliged to mount and equip myself from the enemy’s spoils. You
+see what I am now; and you tell me not to have confidence in
+myself!”</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[72]</span><a id=
+"c06"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1835.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Count D’Erlon</span> visited Oran
+in the month of June, 1835. Abdel Kader wrote to compliment him on
+his arrival, and anxiously awaited overtures. The Governor-General
+was desirous of inviting him to a personal interview. Trezel firmly
+and successfully pointed out the impolicy of such a step. He
+maintained that, so far from Abdel Kader being willing to see, much
+more to aid in, the extension of French dominion in Algeria, he
+was, in fact, adroitly making the French Government the instrument
+for his own exaltation, and that to enter into closer relations
+with him would be tantamount to an approval of his late
+conduct.</p>
+
+<p>Such, indeed, was the indignation of that uncompromising soldier
+at the facility with which Abdel Kader was achieving his own ends
+at the expense, as he conceived, of French honour, and to the great
+scandal of French common sense and discrimination, that he had more
+than once been tempted to march against him on his own
+responsibility. D’Erlon, on the contrary, strongly impressed by
+this time with the importance and necessity of Abdel Kader’s
+support, would not hear of any steps being taken that might
+possibly lead to a rupture; and on returning to Algiers, ordered
+Trezel carefully to cultivate his friendship and alliance.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[73]</span>Such, however, in
+a short time, became the state of affairs in the province of Oran,
+that Trezel had only before him the choice of two courses—either to
+submit to Abdel Kader’s dictation, and await his sovereign pleasure
+in all things connected with the interior, or to place himself in
+such a position as to be enabled to act independently.</p>
+
+<p>The Douairs and Zmelas had resumed a friendly intercourse with
+the French. Abdel Kader threatened to take them back forcibly to
+Tlemsen. Those tribes, rather than abandon their crops and be
+deprived of a profitable traffic, at once demanded French
+protection. Trezel granted their request; and, hearing that Abdel
+Kader’s officers were engaged in harassing them with forcible
+measures—seizing their cattle and carrying off some of their
+Sheiks—he sent a brigade to their camping ground near Miserghin. On
+the 16th June, 1835, a treaty, containing eleven articles, was
+signed by both parties, in which the Douairs and Zmelas were
+declared French subjects.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was still desirous to avert hostilities, and even so
+anxious to avoid any pretext which might lead to them, that he had
+issued strict orders that no Arab was, under any circumstances, to
+fire on a Frenchman except in self-defence. He therefore simply
+wrote to Trezel, strongly protesting against a step which he looked
+on as a glaring infraction of the treaty of Desmichels, by which
+the French engaged not to harbour refugees from the tribes, and to
+send back Arab deserters.</p>
+
+<p>Trezel answered him that he was quite willing to abide by that
+treaty; but argued that the word “deserter” applied only to
+individuals, and could never have been intended to<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_74">[74]</span> extend to whole tribes who
+preferred French rule to his. Viewing the sense of the treaty in
+that light, he said, he could never deprive the Douairs and Zmelas
+of the rights they had obtained.</p>
+
+<p>This notification drew from Abdel Kader the following
+letter:—</p>
+
+<p>“You know the conditions which Desmichels made with me before
+you came to Oran, and to which you yourself promised to adhere. By
+those conditions, every Arab who commits a misdemeanour or crime,
+and flies to you for refuge and protection, is to be sent back to
+me, even when it is a question of more than one individual. How
+much stronger becomes my claim on this point, when it is a question
+of whole tribes deserting and going over to you!</p>
+
+<p>“The Douairs and Zmelas are my subjects; and according to our
+law, I have a right to do with them as I please. If you withdraw
+your protection from them, and let them obey me, as heretofore, it
+is well. If, on the contrary, you persist in breaking your
+engagements, recall at once your consul from Mascara; for even
+should the Douairs and Zmelas enter within the walls of Oran, I
+will not withdraw my hand from them until they repent and atone for
+their fault. Moreover, my religion prohibits me from allowing a
+Mussulman to be under the dominion of a Christian. See what suits
+you best; otherwise the God of Battles must decide between us.”</p>
+
+<p>Trezel could only reply to such a tone by the sound of cannon.
+Indeed, hostilities had, in some degree, already begun. A few days
+previously, the French cavalry, being short of forage, had cut down
+the crops of the Hashem<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_75">[75]</span> Gharabas. Abdel Kader, on hearing of this
+irruption on his family tribe, had moved up 2,000 horse and 800
+foot to their vicinity, near the river Sig. Trezel now determined
+to attack this force before it assumed any greater development. On
+the 26th of June, 1835, he led out a column for that purpose,
+consisting of 5,000 infantry, a regiment of Chasseurs d’Afrique, 4
+mountain pieces, and 20 waggons for provisions, besides the
+ordinary ambulance.</p>
+
+<p>Shortly after entering the wood of Muley Ismail, the leading
+companies opened fire on what they conceived to be a straggling
+party of the Arabs. The fire was vigorously returned. Presently
+cavalry appeared. It was Abdel Kader’s advanced guard, coming from
+the Sig. In a few minutes the French were furiously attacked in
+front and on their flanks.</p>
+
+<p>The suddenness of the onset, the thickness of the wood, and the
+undulating nature of the ground, which tended to conceal the real
+number of the enemy, combined with the shouts and cries by which
+the Arabs sought to magnify their number, all contributed to shake
+the steadiness of the French column. In vain were certain changes
+in its formation attempted: the rear battalions ordered to close
+up, the centre compacted, and the cavalry thrown out. In a short
+time the whole body was thrown into confusion, the cavalry was
+driven in, and the infantry and artillery were only able to fire
+their discharges at random.</p>
+
+<p>For a while the Arab attack seemed to relent. The French now
+broke from their ranks. The provision waggons were seized and
+emptied; the wine casks were staved in. All eat and drank
+ravenously. At length, by the greatest exertions on the part of the
+officers, some sort of order was restored,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_76">[76]</span> and an onward movement was effected. The
+banks of the Sig were reached about sunset; and there the French
+column encamped in solid square.</p>
+
+<p>Fortunately for the French, the main body of Abdel Kader’s army,
+approaching by forced marches from Tlemsen, had been obliged to
+halt for a short repose some two leagues higher up the stream. The
+French, for that night, had a respite. At dawn of day, Trezel
+commenced a retreat; but Abdel Kader had not been inactive. By a
+rapid night march he had succeeded in placing himself on the
+enemy’s line of communication with Oran. Trezel was in no condition
+to fight his way, and took the direction of the seaport town of
+Arzew. Knowing the difficulties of a direct movement in that
+point—part of the intervening country being almost impassable to
+waggons and artillery carriages—he determined to turn the Hamian
+Mountains, and to emerge on the plain of Arzew by the defile of the
+Habra, where that river Habra changes its name to that of the
+Macta.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, seeing the direction the French were taking, at
+once devised their object. If he could only occupy the defile of
+the Habra before they reached it, he knew they would be at his
+mercy. But the distance was too great for infantry to accomplish in
+time to effect his object. Selecting a thousand horsemen, he
+ordered each rider to mount a foot soldier behind him, and gallop
+to the spot. This lucky inspiration was crowned with complete
+success. The French, after patiently toiling across the plain of
+Ceirat, harassed all the way by the Arab cavalry, entered the
+defile about mid-day.</p>
+
+<p>To their surprise they found the slopes on either side of them
+bristling with arms. As they proceeded, huge pieces of<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_77">[77]</span> rock were hurled down upon them.
+While the French skirmishers were occupied during two hours in
+bravely but slowly opening a way, Abdel Kader with his whole army
+closed in upon them from behind. Their rear guard, fearing to be
+cut off, pushed on confusedly to the front.</p>
+
+<p>Part of the ambulance and artillery took ground to the right,
+and got swamped in a marsh. The artillerymen cut their traces and
+fled. Regiments got intermingled. Companies and sections of
+companies rushed here and there for places of shelter or escape.
+Luckily for them, the Arabs were too much occupied in plundering
+and stripping and slaying the wounded, to follow them into the
+nooks and corners in which they had sought for refuge. Many, trying
+to swim the river, were carried away by the stream and drowned.
+Night came on. The crushed and mutilated mass dropped away towards
+Arzew in disjointed fragments of helpless and bewildered
+fugitives.</p>
+
+<p>The Arabs knew no bounds to their exultation. Shouts of joy
+resounded, and the glare of torches flashed to and fro in the
+defile all through the night. An aerial spectator might have seen
+one part of it occupied with busy architects. Drawing near, he
+would have seen something growing up from the ground, like a
+pyramid. Bending down and listening, he would have heard frantic
+cries of “more heads, more heads!” A closer inspection of this work
+of art would have revealed to the astonished gaze hundreds of
+French heads, piled up promiscuously.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader rode towards the place about midnight. He reined up,
+and paused for awhile in silent and painful contemplation. His soul
+revolted at the ghastly trophy. For the moment he was powerless;
+but as he passed on, he<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_78">[78]</span> resolved in his mind that this should be the
+last of such barbarities.</p>
+
+<p>Such was the terrible episode of the Macta. France was
+electrified at the news of the disaster. The nation, with one
+accord, demanded investigation, punishment, and vengeance. D’Erlon
+was recalled; the brave but unfortunate Trezel was replaced by
+General D’Arlanges. Marshal Clausel was sent to inaugurate a new
+era in what was now called the African colony of France; but his
+new weapons were destined to break in his hands.</p>
+
+<p>In the session of 1835, M. Thiers spoke powerfully in the French
+Chambers on the subject of the system which had, up to that time,
+been pursued in Algeria. “It is not colonisation,” he said. “It is
+not occupation on a large scale; it is not occupation on a small
+scale. It is not peace; it is not war. It is war badly made.”
+Roused by this taunt, so bitterly justified by the late deplorable
+event on the Macta, the French Government at last threw some energy
+into its mode of action, augmented the army in Algeria, ordered the
+vigorous prosecution of the war with Abdel Kader, and decreed the
+occupation of Mascara. It was thought that the seizure of his
+capital would bring the aspiring young Sultan to terms.</p>
+
+<p>Marshal Clausel arrived at Algiers August 10th, 1835. A pompous
+proclamation which he issued boastfully announced the speedy
+submission of the whole regency. A map was at the same time
+published, showing the colony divided into beylicks, with the names
+of the native beys appointed to govern them. Abdel Kader was held
+to be a thing of the past, or, if existing, to be easily disposed
+of.</p>
+
+<p>This highly satisfactory arrangement, however, never<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_79">[79]</span> extended beyond the domain of
+imagination. The marshal’s military deeds were destined to contrast
+awkwardly with his military dreams. Expeditions to Medea, to
+Miliana, to Cherchell, all returned with sad tales of humiliation
+and reverse. “In two months,” he had ostentatiously declared, “the
+Hadjouts shall cease to be.” The marshal theorised; Abdel Kader
+performed.</p>
+
+<p>His Khalifa at Miliana descended, by his orders, into the Metija
+with 5,000 cavalry and infantry, rallied these very Hadjouts, swept
+the plains of Algiers of all the French colonists, and blockaded
+Algiers itself. On the other hand, D’Arlanges and the garrison of
+Oran were reduced to the greatest straits. They were little more
+than prisoners of war. Abdel Kader had almost realised his threat
+that not a bird should fly over the towns occupied by the infidels
+without his leave.</p>
+
+<p>The French everywhere writhed in their fetters. The army
+breathed fury and indignation, and almost mutinied. From the
+general to the drummer, all loudly demanded to be led out against
+the daring and successful Arab who was thus setting them at
+defiance and enveloping them in the toils of his fearless and
+enterprising genius. On the 21st of November, 1835, Clausel went to
+Oran, and prepared to take the field with 12,000 men.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was already on the alert. His available force, to
+meet the coming shock, was 8,000 cavalry, 2,000 infantry, and four
+pieces of cannon. With these he proposed to check, harass, and
+perhaps scatter, the French army on its line of march. To defend
+Mascara never entered into his plan; his was not a siege power.</p>
+
+<p>Clausel quitted Oran November 27th. The wood of
+Muley<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[80]</span> Ismael was
+passed, and the fording of the Sig effected without opposition. As
+the column drew near to the Habra, the Arabs were seen moving in a
+parallel direction along the adjacent heights. Abdel Kader was
+watching the moment when a break in the French lines would offer
+him a favourable point of attack. Clausel, penetrating this
+intention, halted, closed up, and, making face to his right,
+advanced against the Arabs, in <em>échelons</em> of battalions from
+his left.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader refused battle. Leaving his adversary to enjoy the
+barren fruits of his change of front, he pushed on rapidly, and
+placed himself across the main road leading to Mascara. His left
+was posted on an eminence, where he placed his artillery; his right
+was protected by a wood. His selection of ground would have done
+honour to a European general.</p>
+
+<p>An able commander may seize a strategical point in such a manner
+as to decide the fate of a campaign. He may overbear, and even turn
+to a good account, obstacles apparently insuperable, by tactical
+skill; he may make time and space subservient to his designs; but
+he cannot give irregulars the firmness requisite to hold the part
+assigned to them in a regular order of battle. It was the fate of
+Abdel Kader to discover now, that, in attempting to realise the
+theories of European military science in the open field, and on a
+given ground, with the levies under his command, the elements he
+wielded were below the requirements of his genius.</p>
+
+<p>Four chapels, dedicated to Sidi Embarek, were occupied by his
+advanced posts. These the French quickly drove in. The Arab cavalry
+charged in various places; but they were broken and dispersed by
+shells and rockets. Abdel Kader directed in person the fire of his
+artillery. Some well-directed<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_81">[81]</span> shots had thrown a French brigade into
+confusion. Immediately he led on his infantry against it. Animated
+by his presence, his Arabs and Kabyles went in valiantly. But they
+measured themselves in vain against the courage and obstinacy of
+French infantry. The struggle on their part was desperate but
+fruitless, and they retreated in confusion.</p>
+
+<p>The French had in the meantime, and after some hours’ hard
+fighting, possessed themselves of the wood on the right of the Arab
+position, whilst their artillery had pushed well up the main road.
+The Arabs abandoned the field at all points. Abdel Kader vainly
+endeavoured to preserve some order in the retreat. That night, his
+regular infantry disbanded. Of the cavalry of the tribes, some went
+to their homes; others hurried off to Mascara, and began to plunder
+the place. He himself withdrew to Cachero, his family property,
+about two leagues beyond that town.</p>
+
+<p>The army of Abdel Kader had melted away like a wreath of snow.
+It was evident that the French would soon be in Mascara. Tlemsen
+might even fall into their hands in a brief space of time. Whole
+tribes, as a probable consequence, would seek safety by submission.
+Some of his chiefs, on whom Abdel Kader most relied, had already
+deserted him. His case seemed to be hopeless. But he calmly awaited
+the time when the panic should subside; he felt assured that it
+would be only transient. He was mortified and indignant at the
+stain which had been put upon his fame and reputation by the
+weakness and pusillanimity of some, and the treason of others. Yet
+he never uttered an invective or a reproach.</p>
+
+<p>The few followers who remained with Abdel Kader anxiously
+endeavoured to read his thoughts. The alarmists<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_82">[82]</span> he re-assured; the faint-hearted
+he encouraged; to his mother, who, with womanly tenderness and
+compassion, now approached him to pour words of comfort and
+consolation in his ear, he calmly replied, taking her hand in his,
+“Women, mother, have need of pity, not men.”</p>
+
+<p>Clausel entered Mascara December 6, 1835. A miserable crowd of
+Jews was all that remained of its population. They came out of
+their dens to crouch at the feet of the victorious French. All
+masters were alike to these exiles from the Land of Promise. The
+Mohammedans had disdained to allow them to accompany them in their
+flight. On the 7th, flames burst forth in various parts of the
+town, but were soon extinguished. The French were just beginning to
+repose from their fatigues, and were contemplating a permanent
+occupation, when, to their surprise and disgust, they got orders to
+prepare for leaving. On the 8th December, Mascara was
+evacuated.</p>
+
+<p>The next day, a horseman appeared before its gates. It was Abdel
+Kader. Rumours of his presence spread rapidly. Some Arabs made
+their appearance before him; they looked abashed and mistrustful.
+El Aoura, Aga of the Hashems, was amongst the number. In the
+flight, he had carried off the royal parasol. He now produced it.
+“Keep it for yourself,” said Abdel Kader, with a sarcastic smile;
+“you may, one of these days, be Sultan.”</p>
+
+<p>As the day wore on, some of the fugitive chiefs came dropping
+in. Abdel Kader eyed them contemptuously. At last, one ventured to
+ask him, if he had any orders to give them. “My orders!” he
+exclaimed. “Yes, my orders are, that you instantly relieve me from
+the burden you imposed upon<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_83">[83]</span> me, and which the interests of religion alone
+have enabled me to support, up to this hour. Let the tribes make
+choice of my successor, and inform Il Hadj Djellali of the result.
+I am going with my family to Morocco.”</p>
+
+<p>By a common impulse, chiefs and men prostrated themselves before
+him, kissed his hands, his feet, his burnous, imploring pardon and
+forgiveness for the past, and promising fidelity and constancy for
+the future. “He was their father, their Sultan, the chosen of God
+to lead on the Djehad; their lives were his; if he left them, they
+had nought to do but surrender to the infidels.” At these last
+words, Abdel Kader turned round abruptly. The blood mantled to his
+cheeks. They had struck the only chord to which his heart
+responded—the sense of duty. “God’s will be done,” he exclaimed;
+“but remember, I swear never to enter Mascara except to go to the
+Mosque, until you have avenged your ignominious defeat. I see
+traitors amongst you; Mamoor yonder is one; let him be hung.” The
+unfortunate culprit was seized and executed forthwith.</p>
+
+<p>The master spirit had prevailed; confidence was restored. That
+night, from the royal tent, dispatches went forth to all the
+tribes, summoning them to renewed action. On the morrow, Abdel
+Kader, buoyant and cheerful as ever, towering above misfortune,
+mighty in disaster, dauntless where all desponded, arresting
+victory in her flight from the very depths of humiliation and
+defeat, sallied forth, sword in hand, at the head of 6,000 cavalry,
+to attack and harass the French column, as, wrapped in tempest,
+drenched with rain, and benumbed with cold, it pursued its
+incomprehensible retreat on Mostaganem.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[84]</span><a id=
+"c07"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1836.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Notwithstanding</span> Clausel’s
+temporary occupation of Mascara, Abdel Kader had already regained
+his ascendancy. Everywhere he was in possession of the field.
+Several tribes who had shown an inclination to accept the rule of
+the French were punished, either by money levied, or cattle
+distrained. Moreover Clausel sued for peace.</p>
+
+<p>To the proposition that he should acknowledge the sovereignty of
+France, Abdel Kader replied, that before acknowledging a suzerain
+he should like to know precisely the extent of power and territory
+which he was to hold, as well as the obligations he should be
+called on to fulfil. Miloud ibn Arasch was invited to come to Oran
+to discuss the negotiation. Clausel was, at this time, meditating
+an expedition against Tlemsen.</p>
+
+<p>The presence of the French in the interim had encouraged their
+partisans. Mustapha ibn Ismail had promised Clausel the
+co-operation of more than one Arab tribe, if he advanced upon
+Tlemsen. The Beni Engad declared themselves his friends, and they
+were already drawing near the town in large force with the view of
+assisting him, and aiding the escape of the Kolouglis from the
+citadel, in which the latter were still blockaded.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[85]</span>Abdel Kader
+hearing of this combination, made a rapid descent on both parties.
+He caught Mustapha and the Kolouglis in the very act of making a
+sortie, and drove them back. Turning round on the Beni Engad, he
+completely routed them. The action was scarcely over, when Clausel
+and his column, 8,000 strong, were seen marching on the town. Abdel
+Kader had barely time to complete its evacuation. He withdrew with
+the whole population, unmolested, to Ouchda, on the frontiers of
+Morocco. Clausel entered Tlemsen January 13th, 1836.</p>
+
+<p>Mustapha and the Kolouglis, followed by a miserable crowd of
+Jews, presented themselves before the Governor-General and his
+staff, overwhelming him with exuberant professions of loyalty and
+submission, and calling him their saviour and benefactor. He
+demanded from them 100,000 francs as a proof of their sincerity. In
+vain the astonished dupes pleaded their utter inability to raise
+such a sum, Clausel was inexorable. The screw was mercilessly
+applied. Threats and blows, and even torture, were used, and the
+contribution was finally paid, partly in coin, partly in diamonds
+and articles of jewellery.</p>
+
+<p>This mode of treatment pursued by the French was as great an
+advantage to the cause of Abdel Kader as any victory would have
+been.</p>
+
+<p>“If that is the way,” he exclaimed, “the French treat their
+friends, what are their enemies to expect?”</p>
+
+<p>It was diligently spread abroad that a Jew had presided at the
+tying up and castigation of the Kolouglis. The Arabs were furious.
+Such an indignity put upon Mussulmans had never been heard of. The
+Beni Engad opened a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[86]</span>
+correspondence with Abdel Kader. The Kolouglis sent him word
+privately that they only awaited the departure of the French to
+give him up the citadel.</p>
+
+<p>It was the intention of Clausel, however, to occupy the town, as
+he was extremely anxious to establish a direct communication
+between Tlemsen and the sea-coast. The mouth of the Tafna was the
+nearest available point for this purpose, but the intervening
+ground was mountainous. He set out to accomplish his object,
+January 23rd. He soon found himself in presence of Abdel Kader,
+with his whole army.</p>
+
+<p>For ten successive days the battle raged between them. The
+Arabs, burning to avenge their late defeat, were obstinately
+tenacious. Abdel Kader, moreover, had not attempted a regular
+formation. Hills, ravines, rocks, and rivers were seized and
+defended, according to the exigencies of the moment. Against such
+tactics, and in an unknown country, French courage and discipline
+were at fault. Clausel was defeated and driven back to Tlemsen with
+considerable loss. After placing a garrison in the citadel under
+the command of Captain Cavaignac, he returned with his column to
+Oran, harassed by Abdel Kader to its very gates.</p>
+
+<p>On his arrival at Algiers, he consoled himself for all his
+futile expeditions by issuing a proclamation declaring the war to
+be finished. “Abdel Kader,” it stated, “utterly beaten and
+discomfited, has fled to the Sahara, there to conceal his treason
+and revolt.” In April, the Marshal embarked for France, leaving
+instructions to General d’Arlanges at Oran, to make a fortified
+camp on the Tafna, with the view of opening from thence the desired
+line of communication with Tlemsen.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[87]</span>General Perregaux
+about this time made an incursion on the tribes located in the
+valley of the Cheliff. Influenced by their chiefs, the sons of Sidi
+il Aribi, these tribes had continued, despite their repeated
+corrections, to waver in their obedience to the Sultan. They had
+not paid the tribute without considerable reluctance and
+complaints, and they had furnished their contingent of cavalry to
+his army with manifest repugnance. They now, under pretence of
+superior pressure, again entered into an alliance with the
+French.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was too much occupied, for the moment, with the
+blockade of Tlemsen and the proceedings of D’Arlanges on the Tafna,
+to interrupt the military promenade of Perregaux. But the recreant
+Arabs, who had welcomed the French general, were soon made to feel
+the weight of the Sultan’s indignation. No sooner had the French
+withdrawn than he came down on them like an avalanche. Eighteen
+tribes were heavily fined, and their cattle distrained. The Borgia
+tribe, singled out to serve as a terrible example, was decimated,
+and then driven out of the district to find shelter where it
+could.</p>
+
+<p>D’Arlanges had reached the Tafna, with great difficulty, on the
+16th of April, with 3,000 infantry and eight pieces of artillery.
+Having completed an entrenched camp on the banks of the river, he
+marched out on the 21st, in conformity with his instructions, to
+open the road to Tlemsen. Abdel Kader, who from the central
+position of Nedroma, which commanded equally the road from the
+Tafna to Tlemsen and to Oran, was able to watch his enemy’s
+movements in either direction, rapidly descended to the encounter,
+enveloped the French column with masses of Kabyles and Arabs, and
+obliged it to retrace its steps.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[88]</span>He owed this
+success to his own unwearied exertions and commanding influence. So
+long as he could keep each separate French garrison in a state of
+isolation, the game was his own. But to effect so comprehensive a
+plan, he was obliged to keep the whole country constantly on the
+alert. With this view he had for weeks past been traversing the
+mountains of the Kabyles which spread around the Tafna. Through
+toilsome days and sleepless nights he had been summoning,
+preaching, and haranguing. His fiery eloquence had raised the
+enthusiasm of those fierce and ungovernable mountaineers to a pitch
+of frenzy. When the time for action came, and Abdel Kader once more
+led them in person against the foe, they rushed to the combat more
+like wild beasts than men, came at once to close quarters with the
+French infantry, grappled with them in single combat, swept through
+their ranks, and rushed up to the cannon’s mouth.</p>
+
+<p>The French government, irritated by such prolonged and
+unexpected resistance, continued to pour in reinforcements. On the
+6th of June, 1836, General Bugeaud landed at the mouth of the Tafna
+with three fresh regiments. The attempt to force a passage to
+Tlemsen was immediately renewed, and, at last, the point was
+carried with success. Abdel Kader fought a long and desperate
+battle with the invading force on the banks of the Sikkak, but on
+this occasion he was completely defeated.</p>
+
+<p>This reverse had its usual effect on the tribes. Many of the
+cavalry contingents rode off and returned to their homes. The
+sudden abandonment to which Abdel Kader was sometimes exposed,
+after a defeat, would have prostrated the energies of a weaker
+mind, and paralysed a less iron-moulded<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_89">[89]</span> will. But such oscillations had long ceased
+to affect him. He well knew that whenever Fortune smiled, a wave of
+his sword would at any hour bring both waverers and rebels
+crouching to his feet.</p>
+
+<p>But when he was informed that a certain Sidi Ibrahim had so far
+calculated on his present emergency as to excite a revolt against
+him, and even to assume the title of sultan, he drew his sword from
+its scabbard, hung it to his saddle bow, and vowed never to sheathe
+it or descend from his horse till he had the traitor’s head.
+Appearing almost singly in the midst of the tribe Beni Amers, among
+whom he knew the traitor to be, he demanded his instant delivery.
+The tribe, startled and subdued by this act of bold decision, and
+dreading the charge of complicity, gave up the rebel Sidi Ibrahim.
+His head was at once taken off.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, by the ceaseless activity of his movements in all
+directions, and by the untiring vigilance with which he
+superintended his system of blockade, had again reduced the French
+to the greatest extremities. They had established posts in the
+interior, but they could neither reach them nor communicate with
+them. Their letters were intercepted. The bearers of them, when
+seized, were invariably decapitated. No friendly tribes brought the
+French provisions.</p>
+
+<p>Whether at Oran, or at the Tafna, they could only move out in
+large bodies, and on such occasions large supplies, beasts of
+burden, and means of transport were required. The Douairs and
+Zmelas, seeking shelter under the walls of Oran, lived upon the
+rations scantily doled out to them by their protectors. At Tlemsen,
+Cavaignac was buying cats for his table at 40 francs a head.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[90]</span>In the month of
+November, 1836, Clausel, who had returned to his post, undertook
+the siege of Constantine, the stronghold of Achmet Bey, the last
+representative of the Turkish power in Algeria. Abdel Kader
+abstained from taking any steps which might thwart the complete
+development of that design. Whether the French were successful in
+their design or not, he flattered himself that he should be the
+gainer in the end. He felt that if the Bey were vanquished, he
+should be delivered, without cost or trouble to himself, from a
+dangerous rival, and that the Arab tribes of the province of
+Constantine would then be free to join his standard. If he were
+triumphant, the French, wearied out by the difficulties of their
+general position in the country, might abandon it; in which case, a
+struggle between himself and the Bey for the mastery would neither
+be doubtful as to its issue, nor of long duration.</p>
+
+<p>But when the expedition failed, he felt his hour was come. From
+his head-quarters at Medea, he issued orders for a simultaneous
+advance against all the French possessions between the Atlas and
+the sea-coast. In the province of Oran little remained to be
+effected. But the plain of the Metija was at his mercy. Thousands
+of Arabs and Kabyles, supported by the tribes of Tittery, descended
+like a torrent from the mountains, sacking and burning the French
+colonial establishments, slaying and capturing the colonists, and
+carrying terror and dismay into Algiers itself.</p>
+
+<p>The state to which the French garrisons were now reduced was
+pitiable. The utmost ingenuity of their commissariat was daily and
+hourly taxed to avert the horrors of famine. Fortunately for the
+French, they were relieved from their painful predicament by the
+speculative genius of a Jew.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[91]</span>Durand, the
+Sultan’s wily and influential agent at Algiers, had long been
+feasting his imagination with the splendid harvest he should
+gather, could he only be constituted sole conductor of commercial
+transactions between the contending parties. To this end he had for
+months been labouring to convince Abdel Kader that the advantages,
+even in a military point of view, to be gained by feeding the
+French would far outweigh the value of any glory which might be
+gained by starving them.</p>
+
+<p>Authorised to drive the best bargain he could, Durand hurried
+off to Oran, and opened a negotiation with General Broussard, who,
+at that period, was in command of the garrison.</p>
+
+<p>“The French,” he said, “have need of corn and meat. The Sultan
+wants iron, lead, and sulphur. Let each party sell the other what
+it wants, and all will be satisfied. You need not fear that you
+will be in any degree compromised with the Sultan by such an
+arrangement. He will not appear in the matter at all. I will sell
+you corn and cattle; and you will sell me iron and sulphur. The
+Sultan will merely know, indirectly, that the former articles are
+for you, and the latter for him. The Sultan will even go so far as
+to allow you to re-victual Tlemsen; but as such a concession would
+undoubtedly exasperate and disgust the Arabs, to whom the presence
+of the French in that town is hateful, he can only take on himself
+the odium and responsibility of granting it, on the condition that
+all the prisoners taken at the battle of the Sikkak are set free
+and sent back to him.”</p>
+
+<p>Broussard at once accepted the proposal. The French again
+enjoyed the long unaccustomed luxury of abundance. Abdel Kader, on
+his side quietly obtained from his enemies,<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_92">[92]</span> reduced to assume the garb of friends, the
+materials of war, which were hereafter to be wielded against
+them.</p>
+
+<p>Not only did this singular contract, as it turned out, give him
+the means of increasing his aggressive power, but, at the same
+time, it also raised his <em>prestige</em>. To the sneers of
+fanatics, who reproached him with his defeats, and the complaints
+of whole families, constantly demanding their lost ones,
+languishing in the prisons of the infidel, he could now reply by
+triumphantly pointing to prisoners arrested from the victor’s
+hands, restored to their homes, and able again to take part in the
+holy war. Such was the state of affairs when General Bugeaud
+arrived from France at Oran, with instructions either to make peace
+with Abdel Kader, or to conquer him.</p>
+
+<p>Wishing to try, in the first place, to effect a negotiation, he
+sent him the following propositions as a basis of
+accommodation:—</p>
+
+<p>1. Acknowledgment of the sovereignty of France.</p>
+
+<p>2. Limitation of his territory to the river Cheliff.</p>
+
+<p>3. Payment of tribute.</p>
+
+<p>4. Delivery of hostages, as guarantee for, and the due execution
+of, any future treaty which might be agreed on.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader replied, through his agent Durand, that having never
+experienced any fatal check, and having amply compensated himself
+for any disasters which had temporarily befallen him, he could
+never consent to be placed in a position inferior to that which he
+enjoyed by the treaty of Desmichels; that Arabs would never hear of
+living under even the nominal dominion of Christians; and that if
+France endeavoured to place them under it by force she would be
+embarking in an endless war. He declared, moreover, that he had not
+entered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[93]</span> the province
+of Tittery from any design of his own, but had been summoned
+thither by the voice of its inhabitants, and that neither his
+honour nor his religion would allow him to abandon those who had
+thrown themselves on his protection. He added, that in his opinion
+the real interest of France was not to seek an extension of sway
+over populations irreconcilably hostile to her, but rather to
+confine herself to commercial enterprise in the towns on the
+sea-coast.</p>
+
+<p>By the voice of his agent, Abdel Kader admitted, however, that
+he would consent to allow the French to occupy the Metija, or Plain
+of Algiers, with the exception of Blidah, which belonged properly
+to the mountains, and that he was willing to yield them all the
+territory near Oran, comprised between the Bridia and the Macta. He
+was ready, moreover, as he declared, to renounce the monopoly
+granted him by Desmichels, to allow complete freedom of commerce,
+and to guarantee the security, and repair the losses, if any
+occurred, of all Frenchmen who chose to settle in the interior. He
+would pledge himself, finally, never to give up any sea-port which
+was ceded to him to a foreign power.</p>
+
+<p>Bold and dictatorial as such language appeared to the General,
+he preferred, under all circumstances, to continue in the path of
+concession, rather than to make any resistance which might have
+precipitated hostilities. His Government had expressly warned him
+against granting Abdel Kader any further extension of territory.
+The latter had firmly stated that he would not give up an inch of
+what he held. The General yielded, and on his own responsibility,
+offered to give up to Abdel Kader the province of Tittery, with the
+stipulation, however, that he should consent to be the vassal of
+France.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[94]</span>The following
+ultimatum, embodying the terms of this important compromise, was
+now drawn up, and forwarded to Abdel Kader. The circumscribed
+limits, within which the military representative of the French
+Government therein offered to confine his countrymen in Algeria,
+constituted a point which was in itself a glorious testimony to the
+successful prowess of the great leader who had hitherto rendered
+barren all the expeditions which the French had directed against
+him, and thwarted all their schemes of conquest.</p>
+
+<p>1. The Emir will recognise the sovereignty of France.</p>
+
+<p>2. France reserves, in the province of Oran, a belt, from ten to
+twelve leagues in breadth, beginning at the Rio Salado, and
+terminating at the Cheliff. In the province of Algiers, he reserves
+Algiers, and all the province of that name. She cedes to the Emir
+the province of Tittery and that of Oran, excepting the belt
+afore-mentioned.</p>
+
+<p>3. The Emir will pay an annual tribute in corn and cattle.</p>
+
+<p>4. There shall be perfect freedom of commerce.</p>
+
+<p>5. All the goods which the French have acquired, or may acquire,
+in the country will be guaranteed.</p>
+
+<p>This ultimatum reached Abdel Kader at Medea, where he had
+already opened negotiations with General Damremont, the new
+Governor-General of Algeria, not without sanguine hopes of a
+satisfactory result. He now found himself engaged with two
+negotiators, both willing to treat with him on terms highly
+favourable to his views and expectations. Their zeal to conclude
+with him, indeed, amounted to rivalry.</p>
+
+<p>Bugeaud had requested, as a particular favour from his
+Government, that to him alone should be reserved the glory of
+dealing with Abdel Kader. When, therefore, he learned<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_95">[95]</span> that Damremont had entered into
+diplomatic relations with the Arab Sultan, his jealousy was
+aroused. He taxed his superior with exercising an unauthorised and
+unwarrantable intervention in a complication, the adjustment of
+which depended entirely on himself. A recriminating correspondence
+took place. Reference was made to the Minister of War, who decided
+that Bugeaud was to be left full liberty of action, without
+interference or supervision.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Abdel Kader heard of this decision, he returned to
+the province of Oran, and on the 12th of May sent the following
+propositions in reply to Bugeaud’s ultimatum:—</p>
+
+<p>1. The Emir acknowledges the sovereignty of France.</p>
+
+<p>2. All the Mussulmans who live outside the towns shall be under
+his jurisdiction.</p>
+
+<p>3. The territory of the French to the west of Oran shall be
+confined to the country between Bridia and the sea, and extend as
+far as the Macta. On the side of Algiers, they will be allowed to
+hold the country between that town and the river Beni-Azza.</p>
+
+<p>4. The Emir will give, for this year only, 20,000 measures of
+corn, 20,000 measures of barley, and 3,000 head of cattle.</p>
+
+<p>5. The Emir shall be empowered to buy, in France, powder,
+sulphur, and arms.</p>
+
+<p>6. The Kolouglis who choose to remain in Tlemsen, shall keep
+their properties, be under our power, and conform themselves to our
+land.</p>
+
+<p>7. Those who leave the French territory, or the territory of the
+Emir, shall be reciprocally given up on the requisition of the one
+or the other party.</p>
+
+<p>8. France cedes to the Emir, Rachgoun, Tlemsen, its citadel, and
+the mortars and cannons which anciently belonged<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_96">[96]</span> to it. The Emir undertakes to
+transport the effects of the French garrison to Oran.</p>
+
+<p>9. Commerce shall be free between the Arabs and the French.</p>
+
+<p>10. The French shall be respected amongst the Arabs, as the
+Arabs amongst the French.</p>
+
+<p>11. The farms and properties which the French may have acquired
+in the Metija shall be guaranteed. They shall enjoy them
+freely.</p>
+
+<p>In the preceding stipulations, Abdel Kader made no allusion to
+the cession of Tittery and Oran. He looked on it as a matter of
+course, inasmuch as in the former province the French had not even
+the shadow of power; whilst in the latter they only traversed as
+birds of passage, flitting from town to town. But, bent on the
+consolidation of his power, and the strengthening of his lines of
+communication, he boldly insisted on the evacuation, by the French,
+of Tlemsen, and on their yielding up the port of Rachgoun.</p>
+
+<p>But he went even still further. Feeling well his vantage-ground,
+and seeing the straits to which the French were reduced, he did not
+hesitate to require that all Mussulman residing on French territory
+should be under his exclusive jurisdiction. In this demand he
+endeavoured to carry out and enforce a principle which, in his
+eyes, was paramount to every earthly consideration, as based on the
+very essence of the Koran—the principle, that under no
+circumstances, if possible, should any Mussulman voluntarily
+acknowledge or submit to Christian rule.</p>
+
+<p>At this period, Abdel Kader approached the zenith of his
+career.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[97]</span><a id=
+"c08"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1837.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Nothing</span> more loudly
+testifies to the immense superiority enjoyed by Abdel Kader, at
+this period, than the fact of his being in a position to advance
+such pretensions, and make such demands. Their real and evident
+meaning was, that he should be acknowledged Sultan of Algeria,
+whilst the French lived, as it were, under sufferance, on the
+outskirts of his empire, simply enjoying the advantage of trading
+with his subjects.</p>
+
+<p>It must be borne in mind, at the same time, that Abdel Kader was
+perfectly aware of the state of public opinion in France. He
+subscribed regularly to the French journals. The debates in the
+Chambers, and the leading articles on Algerian affairs, were
+interpreted to him. He saw the liberal party cordially approving
+and supporting the principle laid down by their chief orator, M.
+Dupin, who denounced Algiers as a fatal legacy, bequeathed by the
+Restoration, which ought to be abandoned, “if,” as he exclaimed,
+“we would not see our last man, and our last sons, swallowed
+up.”</p>
+
+<p>He gathered, from the general tenor of the passages which were
+read to him, that many of the principal politicians in France
+looked upon colonisation in Africa as a dream; that they considered
+all warlike operations there carried on as so<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_98">[98]</span> much blood and treasure thrown away; and
+that they maintained the true policy of France to be, merely to
+hold a few places along the coast for the purpose of preventing
+piracy, and cultivating peaceable and honourable relations with the
+natives.</p>
+
+<p>When, in addition to this, Abdel Kader saw the French Chambers
+making a practical comment on such sentiments, by refusing to vote
+more than 30,000 men for the colony, and learned, that after the
+disastrous retreat from Constantine, the opinion in favour of an
+immediate evacuation of the country began to prevail more than
+ever, it is not to be wondered at if he thought that, by a little
+pertinacity, and a little more perseverance, he should succeed in
+obtaining such terms as would enable him to realise his cherished
+idea of founding an independent Arab kingdom.</p>
+
+<p>The propositions sent in by Abdel Kader seemed, to Bugeaud, so
+utterly incompatible with French interests, that he determined to
+carry out the second part of his programme,—an appeal to arms. In
+the beginning of May, 1837, he assembled his whole force,
+consisting of 12,000 men, in the camp of the Tafna, preparatory to
+offensive operations. When he came to review his resources, he
+found the transport service so utterly inadequate to the occasion,
+that he was obliged to suspend his march.</p>
+
+<p>To procure animals from the interior was impossible. A supply
+from France was not expected. The summer heats, so fatal to
+soldiers in the field, were fast approaching. The time fixed for
+the second siege of Constantine was at hand, and he had engaged
+that a large portion of his little army should be sent round to
+take part in it. The home government<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_99">[99]</span> had made its arrangements in full reliance on
+the fulfilment of this pledge. Peace with Abdel Kader, however
+humiliating, became a necessity. The latter was informed that the
+door was still open for negotiation. He asked leave for a few days’
+consideration.</p>
+
+<p>Various reasons conspired to make Abdel Kader anxious to base
+his action, in a measure of such importance as that of again making
+peace with the French, on an appeal to the wishes of the tribes at
+large. The fanatical party accused him of personal ambition, and of
+sacrificing the uncompromising principles of the Faith to his own
+selfish views of aggrandisement. The restless, the lawless—all, in
+fact, who preferred unbridled liberty to the solid advantages
+springing from a well-established central power, and who felt that
+the return of peace would hand them over unreservedly, and without
+the power of resistance, to the master-hand which would soon reduce
+them to implicit obedience—only wanted a pretext to assume the
+cloak of religion, and join the fanatics in their senseless
+cry.</p>
+
+<p>With well-timed skill and foresight, Abdel Kader now resolved to
+cut the ground from under the feet of both these parties. The
+demand for peace, or, rather, the willingness to accept it, ought,
+he opined, to be looked on as a national act. A general assembly
+was summoned to meet on the banks of the Habra, May 25, 1837; and
+thither, according to invitation, came all the great Sheiks, the
+leaders of cavalry contingents, the venerable Marabouts, and the
+most distinguished warriors of the province of Oran.</p>
+
+<p>The Sultan opened the deliberations in the following words:—“Let
+no one amongst you ever accuse me of wanting<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_100">[100]</span> to make peace with the Christians. It is
+for you to decide the question of peace or war.” He then proceeded
+to explain the nature of the correspondence, which had taken place
+between himself and Bugeaud; the propositions and overtures which
+had been made to him, and those he had made in return. In
+conclusion, he commented carefully on each of the articles of his
+own ultimatum, sent in to the French general on the 12th May.</p>
+
+<p>A long and stormy discussion ensued. The fanatics, and those
+secretly indisposed towards the Sultan, were violent in their cries
+for war. The Marabouts silenced them by the nicely-drawn
+discrimination between peace accepted and peace demanded. The
+Koran, they said, nowhere inculcated a useless shedding of blood,
+when the infidel had submitted, and craved that the sword might be
+sheathed. The French had submitted. They begged for peace. The
+Sultan had dictated his own terms.</p>
+
+<p>This reasoning prevailed. It was decided by a large majority
+that the benefits which would accrue to the commonalty from a state
+of peace, justified the giving up of Blidah, and the plain of
+Algiers, to the French. A slight extension of the limits to which
+the Sultan originally intended to confine them would be no
+inconvenience to the Arabs, inasmuch as every Mussulman would be
+free to emigrate from the French possessions to the Sultan’s
+territory. The demand, however, of the French Government for
+tribute, was declared to be inadmissible.</p>
+
+<p>Sidi Sekkal was shortly afterwards sent to the French
+head-quarters on the Tafna, with the following concessions:—</p>
+
+<p>“1. Blidah abandoned.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[101]</span>“2. Renunciation
+of all authority over Mussulmans residing on French territory.</p>
+
+<p>“3. A certain extension of the French boundaries.”</p>
+
+<p>Sidi Sekkal was commissioned, at the same time, to enter into
+the nature of the limits proposed, and to give other necessary
+explanations. Bugeaud, convinced that further delay would not
+procure him better conditions, agreed to everything. Thereupon the
+following treaty, celebrated as the “Treaty of the Tafna,” was
+drawn up and signed by both parties, May 20th, 1837.</p>
+
+<p class="hang1 space-above15 sc">“The following Treaty has been
+agreed upon, between Lieutenant-General Bugeaud, commanding the
+French troops in the Province of Oran, and the Emir Abdel
+Kader.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 1. The Emir Abdel Kader acknowledges the sovereignty of
+France.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 2. France reserves to herself, in the province of Oran,
+Mostaganem, Mazagnan, and their territories, Oran, Arzew, and a
+territory limited in the following manner:—On the east, by the
+river Macta, and the marsh from whence it flows; on the south, by a
+line starting from the said marsh, passing by the shore on the
+south of the lake, and continuing its prolongation up the Wady
+Maleh, in the direction of Sidi Said; and from this river down to
+the sea, shall belong to the French. In the province of Algiers,
+Algiers, the Sahel, the plain of the Metija, bounded on the east by
+the Wady Khuddra, onwards; on the south, by the crest of the first
+chain of the lesser Atlas, as far as the Chiffa, including Blidah
+and its territory; on the west, by the Chiffa as far as<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_102">[102]</span> the Mount of Mazagnan, and
+from thence, in a direct line to the sea, enclosing Coleah and its
+territory, shall be French territory.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 3. The Emir shall have the administration of the province
+of Oran, that of Tittery, and that part of the province of Algiers
+which is not comprised on the east, within the limits indicated by
+Article 2. He cannot enter any other part of the Regency.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 4. The Emir shall have no authority over Mussulmans who
+wish to reside on the territory reserved to France; but these shall
+be at liberty to go and reside on the territory under the Emir’s
+administration; in the same manner the inhabitants living under the
+Emir’s administration may establish themselves on French
+territory.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 5. The Arabs dwelling on French territory shall enjoy the
+free exercise of their religion. They may build mosques, and follow
+their religious discipline in every particular, under the authority
+of their spiritual chiefs.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 6. The Emir will give to the French army 30,000 measures
+of corn; 30,000 measures of barley; 5,000 head of oxen. The
+delivery of these provisions will be made at Oran, in three
+instalments; the first, on the 15th September, 1837, and the two
+others every successive two months.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 7. The Emir shall be empowered to buy in France, powder,
+sulphur, and the arms he requires.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 8. The Kolouglis who wish to remain in Tlemsen, or
+elsewhere, shall have free possession of their properties there,
+and shall be treated as citizens. Those who wish to withdraw to
+French territory, may sell or rent their properties freely.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[103]</span>“Art. 9. France
+cedes to the Emir, Rachgoun, Tlemsen, its citadel, and all the
+cannons which were anciently in it. The Emir engages to convey to
+Oran all the effects, as well as munitions of war, belonging to the
+garrison of Tlemsen.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 10. Commerce shall be free between the Arabs and the
+French. They may establish themselves reciprocally, on each other’s
+territory.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 11. The French shall be respected amongst the Arabs, as
+the Arabs amongst the French. The farms and properties which the
+French have acquired, or may acquire, on the Arab territory, shall
+be guaranteed them: they shall enjoy them freely, and the Emir
+engages to indemnify them for any damages the Arabs may cause
+them.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 12. The criminals on both territories shall be
+reciprocally given up.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 13. The Emir engages not to give up any part of the coast
+to any foreign power whatever, without the authorisation of
+France.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 14. The commerce of the Regency shall only be carried on
+in French ports.</p>
+
+<p>“Art. 15. France shall maintain agents near the Emir, and in the
+towns under his jurisdiction, to act as intermediaries for French
+subjects, in any commercial disputes they may have with the
+Arabs.</p>
+
+<p>“The Emir will have the same privilege in French towns and
+seaports.</p>
+
+<p class="center">“Tafna, May 30, 1837.</p>
+
+<p class="right">“The Lieutenant-General commanding at Oran.”</p>
+
+<table class="width-full">
+<tr>
+<td class="tdc">(The Emir’s seal under the Arab text.)</td>
+<td class="tdc">(Bugeaud the General’s seal under the French
+text.)</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class="space-above15"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_104">[104]</span>Bugeaud had been strictly enjoined by his
+Government to confine Abdel Kader to the province of Oran; on no
+account to cede him the province of Tittery, and to insist on his
+paying tribute.</p>
+
+<p>In a letter to the Minister of War, he thus excused himself for
+having signed a treaty which violated such orders:—</p>
+
+<p>“You may well suppose that it pained me greatly to be obliged to
+make up my mind not to follow your instructions, as regards the
+limits to be assigned to the Emir. But that was impossible. Be
+assured that the peace I have concluded is better, and is likely to
+be more durable than any I could have made by confining Abdel Kader
+between the Cheliff and Morocco.”</p>
+
+<p>By this treaty, nevertheless, the French were substantially
+confined to a few towns on the sea-coast, with very circumscribed
+adjacent territories; whilst all the fortresses and strongholds in
+the interior were left in the hands of their triumphant and
+victorious adversary. In a word, Abdel Kader thereby possessed
+two-thirds of Algeria; and in addition to the immense accession
+which this splendid triumph had added to his influence and power,
+he now earned along with him the advantage of appearing before the
+world as the friend and ally of France.</p>
+
+<p>The French generals, who had hitherto followed each other in
+rapid succession through the various phases of the war, had sought
+in vain for an interview with the illustrious Arab chief, who,
+whilst he sorely taxed their military talents, had excited in their
+breasts feelings of soldierly admiration. This favour was now
+vouchsafed to General Bugeaud.</p>
+
+<p>On the 31st of May, 1837, the General, followed by six
+battalions, with all his artillery and cavalry, reached
+the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[105]</span> appointed place
+of rendezvous. Abdel Kader had not yet arrived. Five hours were
+passed in expectation; still nobody appeared. At last, about two
+o’clock, several Arabs came up, one after another, bearing various
+kinds of excuses. The Sultan had been indisposed. He had set out
+late. He was thinking of asking to have the interview postponed
+till next day. He was not far off. He was close at hand.</p>
+
+<p>A horseman now came up and begged the General to move on a
+little; he would soon meet the Sultan. It was getting late, and the
+General, who wished to get his troops back to their camp before
+dark, advanced. After marching for more than an hour, he at length
+came upon the Arab army, consisting of more than 15,000 cavalry,
+drawn up in tolerable order, on an undulating plain. At this
+moment, Bou Hamedi rode up to him, and pointed to the spot where
+the Sultan was surrounded by a large escort, on a hillock not far
+off.</p>
+
+<p>In a few minutes more, Abdel Kader and his escort were seen
+advancing towards the General. It was an imposing sight. Nearly two
+hundred Arab chiefs, on prancing steeds, closed around their
+Sultan, whose simple apparel offered a striking contrast to their
+splendid appointments, glittering with highly-burnished arms, which
+flashed and sparkled in the noon-day sun. Abdel Kader rode a few
+paces in front, mounted on a magnificent black charger, which he
+handled with extraordinary dexterity, sometimes making it spring
+with all fours in the air, sometimes making it walk for several
+yards on its hind legs, and evidently seeking to make an impression
+by his superior horsemanship. Several Arabs ran by his side,
+holding his stirrups, and the ends of his burnous.</p>
+
+<p>General Bugeaud now dashed forward at full gallop, and on
+reaching the Emir, shook hands with him. Both alighted,<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_106">[106]</span> and seating themselves on the
+grass, entered into the following conversation.</p>
+
+<p><em>Bugeaud.</em>—“Do you know that there are very few generals
+who would have dared to make the treaty I have concluded with you?
+But I have not been afraid of aggrandising you, and adding to your
+power, because I felt assured that you would only employ the great
+existence which we give you in ameliorating the condition of the
+Arab nation, and in maintaining peace and a good understanding with
+France.”</p>
+
+<p><em>Abdel Kader.</em>—“I thank you for your good sentiments
+towards me. Please God, I will make the Arabs happy; and if the
+peace is ever broken, it will be no fault of mine.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“On this point, I am your security with the King of
+the French.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“You risk nothing in so doing: we have a religion
+which obliges us to keep our word. I have never been faithless to
+mine.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“I count on it; and it is in this conviction I offer
+you my personal friendship.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“I accept your friendship, but let the French beware
+of listening to intriguers.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“The French are never led by individuals, and it is
+not the acts of individuals which can break the peace: it is only
+the non-execution of the treaty, or some great act of hostility. As
+to the culpable acts of individuals, we will be on our guard
+against them, or punish them reciprocally.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“Very good. You have only to give me notice, and the
+guilty shall be punished.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“I recommend to your good offices the Kolouglis who
+may remain at Tlemsen.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[107]</span><em>A.</em>—“Be
+easy on that score; they shall be treated like citizens.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“You have promised me that you will locate the
+Douairs amongst the Hafras: the country will, perhaps, not be
+sufficient for them.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“They shall be located in such a manner as not to
+endanger the maintenance of peace.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“Have you ordered commercial relations at Algiers,
+and around the towns, to be resumed?”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“Not yet; but I mean to do so, when you have put me
+in possession of Tlemsen.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“You must know, I cannot do so until the treaty has
+been approved of by the King.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“What, then, have not you the power to treat?”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“Yes; but the treaty must be approved. That is
+necessary for you, as a guarantee; for if it was only made by me,
+any general who might replace me would be able to undo it; whereas,
+once approved by the King, my successor would be obliged to abide
+by it.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“If you do not give me back Tlemsen, in accordance
+with the stipulation in the treaty, I do not see the necessity of
+making peace: we shall only have a truce.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“That is true. But it is you who will be the gainer
+by the truce; for, while it lasts, I shall not destroy the
+crops.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“Destroy them, if you like: it will be all the same
+to me. I will give you my full permission, in writing, to destroy
+all you can. It will only be a very small quantity you can get at,
+and the Arabs will still have abundance of grain.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“I don’t think the Arabs are of the same
+opinion.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[108]</span>Abdel Kadir now
+asked how long it would be before the confirmation of the treaty
+arrived from France.</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“About three weeks.”</p>
+
+<p><em>A.</em>—“That is rather long. At all events, we cannot
+reestablish our commercial relations until after the King’s
+approbation shall have arrived. Then the peace will be
+definitive.”</p>
+
+<p><em>B.</em>—“It is only your co-religionists who will be the
+sufferers; for you will be depriving them of a commerce of which
+they stand in need. As for us, we can get all we want by sea.”</p>
+
+<p>The General, not wishing to prolong the interview, as it was
+getting late, rose to take leave. Abdel Kader remained sitting, and
+affected to be engaged with his interpreter, who was standing
+beside him. Bugeaud, suspecting his motive, took him familiarly by
+the hand, and pulled him up, saying at the same time,
+“<em>Parbleu</em>, when a French General rises, you may as well
+rise too—you!”</p>
+
+<p>Thus ended this singular meeting, at which the French General
+had merely gratified an idle, though pardonable, curiosity; but
+which, from the premeditated delays and misunderstandings that
+immediately preceded it, gave Abdel Kader the immense advantage of
+appearing in the eyes of his countrymen as a grand personage, who
+kept even the leaders of the infidels awaiting his good pleasure
+and convenience. Abdel Kader, after shaking the General again by
+the hands, now vaulted into his saddle; and both armies moved off
+the ground to the strains of martial music, the Arabs shouting
+enthusiastically—“Long live our Sultan, Abdel Kader! may God ever
+make him victorious!”</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[109]</span><a id=
+"c09"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1838.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> Treaty of the Tafna was
+warmly applauded by the French Government, who regarded it as a
+master-stroke of policy. The French people looked on it as a
+humiliation. The former boasted that Abdel Kader from being an
+enemy had been transformed into an ally. The latter saw in it the
+criminal surrender of a French province to a rival power. To Abdel
+Kader it was the corner-stone of the edifice he had so long been
+laboriously and perseveringly constructing.</p>
+
+<p>For years a double duty had been imposed on him—on the one hand,
+that of moulding into shape and consistency the discordant
+materials which lay scattered around him, appeasing feuds, allaying
+discords, and quelling insurrections; on the other, that of boldly
+confronting the formidable attacks of an enemy, immeasurably his
+superior in all the means and appliances which raise war to the
+dignity of a science. Relieved from external pressure, he was
+enabled to grapple with his whole and undivided strength against
+internal difficulties.</p>
+
+<p>He now stood face to face with a people who looked on their
+emancipation from a foreign yoke as the signal for unbounded
+licence, whose only idea of liberty was freedom from restraint, and
+who, while they recognised and even obeyed the genius which had
+risen up amongst them, when directed against their foes, shunned
+and dreaded it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[110]</span> when
+brought to bear upon themselves. Whole tribes of Arabs, now freed
+from the harassing excitement, the heavy demands, the constant
+liabilities, the ever-recurring hazards and uncertainties of a
+state of war, seemed bent on resuming, each in its little sphere, a
+separate and independent existence.</p>
+
+<p>Thinking only of their selfish and individual interests, and
+unable to comprehend that a continuance of their newly-acquired
+independence could only be upheld by a continuation of those
+sacrifices which had enabled them to achieve it, these little
+democracies could see no use or occasion for a central government,
+and grudged contributing towards the expenses necessary to support
+it.</p>
+
+<p>The extensive organisation which Abdel Kader contemplated, which
+he was already carrying out, and which could alone consolidate a
+power capable of permanently resisting external attacks—and in his
+keen foresight he felt that they were only temporarily
+suspended—manifestly required the enforcement of certain imports
+throughout the vast extent of country now committed to his
+charge.</p>
+
+<p>The short-sightedness and avarice of the Arabs prevented them
+from seeing any such necessity, and although Abdel Kader never in
+his life exacted from his subjects more than the <em>ashur</em> and
+the <em>zekka</em> (all other imports, including custom-house
+duties, being held in abomination by the Koran), yet the recusants
+had a line of argument always ready to exonerate themselves from
+the obligation of paying taxes.</p>
+
+<p>“They wanted,” they said, “no legislature; they could manage
+their own concerns. If the war should break out again, then it
+would be time enough for the Sultan to call on them to pay their
+contributions, but why were they to pay them<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_111">[111]</span> in time of peace? That the Turks should
+have been always craving for money was natural and comprehensible.
+The Turks had harems of a hundred women each, dancing girls, hybrid
+boys, and all sorts of combinations of profligate expenditure to
+maintain.”</p>
+
+<p>“The name of a Turk,” they argued, “was, and is, and ever will
+be, as long as the pest exists, the synonym for villainy and
+corruption. But what did Abdel Kader want with money? He had only
+one wife. His days and nights, when not at war, were spent in study
+and prayer. His gardens at Cachero were more than enough to defray
+all his expenses.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader made short work with such of these reasoners as were
+within his reach. Their doctrine of resistance was never permitted
+to be more than a grumbling theory. But in the distant provinces,
+which had lately been consigned to him, and over which he had
+hitherto only exercised the influence inherent to his great deeds,
+that doctrine had in many parts assumed shape and substance.</p>
+
+<p>In the southern parts of the provinces of Tittery, his demands
+for the usual contributions were peremptorily rejected, and a
+league was formed to resist their payment, headed by one Ibn
+Mochtar, a chief from the Sahara, near Boghar; the Beni Mochtar,
+the Beni Nail, the Beni Mousa, the Beni Abid, the Zenekara,
+presented a formidable confederacy. Abdel Kader saw that he had not
+a moment to lose. He felt that he must at once crush the
+opposition, or resign his sceptre.</p>
+
+<p>Summoning contingents from his faithful tribes in the province
+of Oran, so as to form an effective force of 8,000 cavalry and
+1,000 infantry, he ordered Ibn Allal, his Khalifa at Miliana, to
+meet him in the country of the Zenakera, with all<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_112">[112]</span> the regulars and irregulars
+under his command. The whole force when assembled constituted an
+array of 12,000 cavalry and 2,000 infantry, with some pieces of
+cannon.</p>
+
+<p>On his way to the place of rendezvous, he passed by Mascara. His
+wife, who had not seen him for many months, sent messengers begging
+him to turn aside, though only for a day. He stoically replied, he
+was wedded to his country, and went on. Such was the intensity of
+his purpose and the all-absorbing influence of his devotion to his
+duty, that more than two years at one time elapsed without his
+allowing himself time to go and see his family.</p>
+
+<p>Before resorting to force, Abdel Kader attempted persuasion. He
+wrote a letter to the disaffected tribes, in which he conjured
+them, in the name of the Prophet, to obey the law; to imitate the
+tribes of the north and west in their obedience, and to beware of
+the pernicious counsels of designing men. In the same document he
+promised to overlook the past, if, returning to better sentiments,
+they came and presented themselves before him with “horses of
+submission.” “Do not trust in the number of your warriors,” he
+concluded, “for were the number double I should overcome them; God
+is with me, and Him I obey. Do not flatter yourselves you can
+escape me. I swear you are no more to me than a glass of water in
+the hands of a thirsty man.”</p>
+
+<p>The letter had no effect, and Abdel Kader advanced to the
+attack. The battle lasted for three days. Finally the rebels gave
+way, and dispersed. The Beni Antar held out for some days behind
+entrenchments which they had thrown up, over what they conceived to
+be impregnable heights, in the fastnesses near Boghar; but they
+also were ultimately reduced.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_113">[113]</span> Ibn Mochtar surrendered, and, coming in
+person, craved the Sultan’s mercy. Not only did he obtain grace,
+but, to his surprise, he was named the Sultan’s Khalifa over the
+subdued tribes. He was ever afterwards one of Abdel Kader’s most
+faithful adherents.</p>
+
+<p>Success, as usual, was followed by fresh submissions. All the
+tribes along the southern frontiers of the province of Constantine
+sent deputies to the Sultan, inviting him to come amongst them. His
+moderation and good faith, as well as his loyal adhesion to the
+treaty of the Tafna, alone prevented him carrying his standards to
+the walls of Constantine itself.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader now returned to Medea. His entry was triumphal. For
+miles ere he reached the gates, the road was thronged with
+thousands who had flocked from all the villages round about to
+feast their eyes on the mighty chief whose fame had long been made
+familiar to their imaginations. Shouts of “Long live our victorious
+Sultan Abdel Kader!” resounded in the distance, and heralded from
+afar his approach to the city. There fresh tokens of enthusiasm
+awaited him. Garlands of flowers were strewn on his path, and
+perfumed waters sprinkled on his head. He rode straight to the
+mosque, entered, prayed, and preached. For weeks presents and
+offerings poured in from all parts. The great Sheiks, the
+Marabouts, the Cadis of Tittery, and several even from Oran, headed
+by the Khalifas of districts, came in state to offer their
+congratulations to the victorious Sultan. It was now considered by
+many that Abdel Kader had reached the pinnacle of greatness. He
+himself was seriously contemplating a retirement into private life.
+But much remained to be done before he could conscientiously resign
+the task he had sworn to accomplish.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[114]</span>His whole
+attention was now turned towards an obstacle which had long chafed
+and ruffled his soaring spirit. Far away to the south of the great
+Sahara, in the province of Laghouat, about two hundred miles from
+Oran, ranged ten powerful and numerous tribes, called the Beni
+Arasch. They had hitherto, amidst all the battle and turmoil which
+had been raging in the north, kept coolly aloof from the exciting
+contest in which their countrymen had been engaged. Abdel Kader had
+frequently summoned them to send their cavalry contingents, but in
+vain.</p>
+
+<p>Their principal chief and Marabout, El Hadj Mohammed ibn Salem
+il Tejini, refused altogether to entertain the idea that there was
+to be an Arab Sultan in the land. He accordingly left all Abdel
+Kader’s letters unanswered, and disdained even to receive his
+orders for the delivery, to his agent, of the legal contributions;
+secure, as he thought, in his distance, his fortress, and his
+sands, he set Abdel Kader at defiance. His confidence, at the same
+time, was increased by his possession of a town, strongly fortified
+after the fashion of the Arabs, called Ain Maadi.</p>
+
+<p>This place had been repeatedly besieged by the Turks, and with
+repeated failures. In 1826, the brother of Tejini had even attacked
+the Turks in their turn, and had menaced Mascara. Already had he
+gained a footing in the town, when Hassan Bey, of Oran, came to its
+relief. Tejini drew off his forces to the plain of Eghrees, and
+there gave his adversary battle, but was defeated and slain. Hassan
+advanced on Ain Maadi; but Hadj Mohammed, who had succeeded his
+brother in the command of the tribes, compelled him to retire. From
+that day, Mohammed Tejini had comported himself as a small
+independent sovereign.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[115]</span>Ain Maadi
+contained only three hundred houses; but it had its kasbah, or
+serail, and was surrounded by thick walls, flanked with towers.
+Gardens spread around it; and these, also, were capable of defence.
+The spring of Ain Maadi, from which the town took its name, though
+at some distance, poured its limpid stream, by means of a canal,
+into the kasbah. Wells of rain water supplied the wants of the
+inhabitants.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was still at Medea, when a certain Hadj Aissa, of
+Laghouat, came, accompanied by several chiefs of the Beni Arasch,
+to offer him presents, and “horses of submission.” The Hadj
+announced, that owing to the influence he exercised over the
+majority of those tribes, they most of them desired to acknowledge
+Abdel Kader as their Sultan, and that he had only to show himself
+amongst them to be joyfully received. Abdel Kader, flattered by an
+adhesion which gave so satisfactory a testimony to the influence of
+his name in the province of Laghouat, appointed the Hadj his
+Khalifa over that oasis of the south, gave him proclamations for
+distribution, in which he called on the Beni Arasch to obey his
+lieutenants, and dismissed him with the assurance that he would
+shortly come in person to receive the proffered allegiance.</p>
+
+<p>The time had now come when he could strike a blow at Tejini. On
+the 12th of June, 1838, he advanced towards Ain Maadi at the head
+of 6,000 cavalry, 3,000 infantry, six mortars, and three
+field-pieces. The place was reached after a tedious march of ten
+days over large sandy wastes. Tejini, taken by surprise, and having
+made no preparations for sustaining a siege, had barely time to
+shut the gates and,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[116]</span>
+organise, as well as he could, the 600 Arabs who were at the moment
+within its walls.</p>
+
+<p>For some time he attempted to defend the gardens with
+skirmishers led out at night, and able, by their knowledge of the
+localities, to harass the enemy in his approaches. These endeavours
+gradually failed. The besieged were confined within their ramparts.
+The Sultan ordered all the trees to be cut down. Batteries were
+erected in the spaces thus obtained; and the fire commenced. On the
+fourth day, the European engineer, who commanded this operation,
+declared the breach that had been made to be practicable. A
+storming party was told off; but on the morrow, the breach was
+found to have been repaired. Again and again the process of
+breaching and repairing was mutually effected.</p>
+
+<p>On the fifteenth day, Abdel Kader challenged Tejini to come out
+and fight him in presence of both armies drawn up to witness the
+encounter; and proposed that the fate of the place should depend on
+the result. Tejini, though young and brave, prudently declined the
+test. Abdel Kader now commenced mining. The mine in due time
+reached the walls. Tejini made a countermine; and in these mines
+several serious encounters took place.</p>
+
+<p>In this manner the siege was prolonged for months; the brave
+defenders, the while, were eking out their existence from their
+small stores of corn and barley, which now barely sufficed to keep
+them from starvation. The besiegers, on their side, were dependent
+for their supplies on the arrival of convoys from the north; and
+these convoys, even, were liable to be intercepted. More than 2,000
+cavalry were constantly employed for their protection through the
+Sahara.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[117]</span> Hadj Aissa
+was of no use whatever. He turned out to be an impostor.</p>
+
+<p>Both sides were at last perishing from sheer exhaustion. Their
+ammunition was all but expended. The anxiety of Abdel Kader was
+intense. He had often before been in straits and difficulties; but
+never had he been engaged in a struggle which involved more
+important consequences. He well knew that if he acknowledged
+himself baffled by raising the siege, he should have all the Sahara
+on his hands; and he declared he would die on the spot, rather than
+give in.</p>
+
+<p>At this critical juncture, Abdel Kader had the unexpected
+satisfaction of receiving some fresh supplies of ammunition, and
+three siege pieces, from his French allies. A diplomatic difficulty
+had arisen as to the right interpretation of a certain article in
+the treaty of the Tafna; and the Governor-General hoped to gain the
+Sultan’s compliance with his version of the disputed passage, by
+thus generously aiding him in his extremity. This opportune
+assistance turned the scales, which were still trembling in the
+balance.</p>
+
+<p>Tejini surrendered. On the 17th of November, 1838, a treaty was
+signed between him and Mustapha ibn Taamy, the Sultan’s
+brother-in-law. By this treaty, the former engaged to evacuate the
+Ain Maadi in eight days, and to retire thence with his family and
+his immediate followers to Laghouat. His eldest son was to remain
+as a hostage in the Sultan’s camp. Abdel Kader, at the expiration
+of the term, rased the town to the ground. Two tribes of the Beni
+Arasch, in the immediate vicinity, at once sent in the
+<em>ashur</em> and the <em>zekka</em>. The other tribes still
+refused. A terrible retribution awaited them.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[118]</span>The following
+dispatch, announcing the success of Abdel Kader, was forwarded to
+Hadj il Taib, his agent at Oran:—</p>
+
+<p>“God having given us the mission to watch over the welfare of
+Mussulmans, and to take on us the direction of all the people in
+this land, submissive to the law of our Lord Mohammed (prayer and
+salutation be to him), we marched into the Sahara—not to harm the
+true believers, not to humble and destroy them—but to awaken their
+faith, to consolidate them into a common bond of union, and to
+establish order.</p>
+
+<p>“All listened to our voice, and obeyed as much as circumstances
+would permit. El Tejini alone refused. We found ourselves face to
+face with those who had been seduced by him. They were preparing to
+fight us. We conjured them, for the love of God and the Prophet, to
+come over to us. To this effect, we recalled to their minds several
+passages of the sacred writings. All was in vain. We despaired of
+their conversion. Yet we feared that if we were indulgent to them,
+we should miss the object we have solely in view. This object is,
+to rally all the Arabs round one common centre, to instruct the
+ignorant in the law of the Prophet, to prevent the spread of evil
+examples amongst them, to preserve them from the corrupting
+influences of certain towns, and to enable them, their wives, and
+children, to live in peace and security.</p>
+
+<p>“Therefore, exercising our sovereign right, and moreover being
+the injured party, we ordered our victorious soldiers to fight
+them. Religion ordained it. They fled before our troops. Again we
+entreated them to listen to us. Again they refused. Tejini declared
+that he counted on the strength<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_119">[119]</span> of his ramparts and the courage of his
+followers. Then the place was closely besieged. Our miners having
+reached the foot of the walls, the inhabitants, in consternation,
+prayed for pardon and deliverance. Although they had deceived us
+more than once, both were accorded them; for the Most High has
+said, ‘Pardon and forget.’ We hope that he will remember our
+conduct on this occasion, and have mercy upon us for the sake of
+the blood we have spared, and the women whose chastity we have
+protected.</p>
+
+<p>“Pardon was granted to all the inhabitants on condition that
+they should leave the town and go and reside elsewhere, wherever
+they chose. All have left. Tejini, with his harem and children,
+have gone to Laghouat, but his eldest son remains a hostage in our
+hands. May God ever grant us the victory, and preserve us from
+misfortune.</p>
+
+<p>“Oh Mussulmans, pray to God for your Sultan. He only labours for
+your welfare. Rejoice, and call on God to strengthen and confirm
+him. Trust in the Divine mercy. Read the chapter of the Koran,
+‘Amran,’ and say, ‘Oh Thou that rulest the universes, Thou givest
+and takest away according to Thy will, and Thou choosest and Thou
+raisest up, at Thy good pleasure. In Thy hands is all good. Thou
+alone art all powerful. Thou changest the night into day, and the
+day into night. Thou bringest forth life from the midst of death.
+Without any effort, Thou prosperest whomsoever Thou wilt.’ Oh
+Mussulmans, seek not protectors from among the Infidel, only look
+for them amongst the true believers.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader returned to Mascara. But the defiant attitude and
+hostile demonstrations of the Beni Arasch, who had<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_120">[120]</span> already had the audacity to
+attack his convoys, preyed upon his mind. He had, moreover,
+indubitable proofs that they had been in correspondence with the
+French. By the rules of the Koran, they deserved death. After
+allowing his troops a few weeks’ repose, he announced an
+expedition; 5,000 cavalry, and cavalry alone, were ordered to hold
+themselves in readiness.</p>
+
+<p>On the day appointed, they assembled on the plain of Eghrees.
+None knew or guessed what was to be the nature or direction of the
+expedition. It was the depth of winter. Each man had been ordered
+to supply himself with a bag of corn and a bag of barley, and no
+more. No mules nor tents were required. At sunset Abdel Kader
+appeared, mounted his horse, and led his forces at a brisk trot
+towards the north-west.</p>
+
+<p>It soon became dark. Four men in advance carried lanterns
+affixed to the points of their spears. The lanterns were lighted,
+and muffled in front, but their rays streamed far away to the rear,
+over the cavalcade.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly a countermarch was directed, and the party bore off
+towards the south-east. The previous direction had been a feint. At
+midnight the troops of the expedition reached a rivulet. All
+dismounted. The horses were fed. Abdel Kader and his men ground
+their corn as well as they could, between stones, and making a
+paste of flour and water, partook of food. After a rest of three
+hours the troops were directed to remount. Again they rode on at a
+brisk trot, which occasionally broke into a canter, till mid-day.
+Then another short halt was made, and then again the expedition
+rode on as before till near midnight, and then only were
+food<span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[121]</span> and rest once
+more taken. Thus they pursued their way for four days and
+nights.</p>
+
+<p>As dawn broke on the morning of the fifth day, the vast
+encampments of the Beni Arasch burst upon their view, spreading
+away to the horizon. More than ten thousand tents covered the
+plains. The Arabs were sleeping. A wild and prolonged shout roused
+them from their slumbers. They rushed out to learn the cause, and
+saw to their dismay a crowd of cavalry swooping down upon them like
+a whirlwind.</p>
+
+<p>Frantic cries of “Abdel Kader, Abdel Kader!” now filled the air.
+The women and children ran about screaming. The men, amazed and
+bewildered, appeared to have lost their senses. Some flew
+instinctively to their arms, others took to their horses. But
+before they could collect, form, or rally, the storm was on them.
+“Spare the harems,” cried Abdel Kader, as he led on the onslaught,
+“but as for those dogs, treat them as they deserve.”</p>
+
+<p>Driving the Beni Arasch before them like a flock of sheep,
+charging and chasing them in all directions, Abdel Kader and his
+cavalry soon succeeded in securing the principal Sheiks. Moved by
+their piteous entreaties and solemn assurances of future good
+conduct, Abdel Kader mercifully refrained from inflicting capital
+punishment. The tribes, however, were compelled to pay up, on the
+spot, five years’ arrears of the <em>ashur</em> and the
+<em>zekka</em>, and to furnish a contribution of 4,000 camels and
+30,000 sheep. Warned by this example, the Beni Arasch became ever
+after Abdel Kader’s most faithful adherents, and remained constant
+to him to the last.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[122]</span><a id=
+"c10"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1838.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> facility with which the
+French had taken possession of Mascara and Tlemsen, convinced Abdel
+Kader of the necessity of having strongholds beyond the easy reach
+of their incursions. The plan which he projected and carried into
+effect had the double object of resisting the French invasion, and
+of cementing his own authority over the Arabs. It bears the highest
+testimony to his military genius. No better explanation of this
+design can be given than in the words which Abdel Kader addressed
+in after times to General Daumas, who had for three years resided
+at his head-quarters in the capacity of consul.</p>
+
+<p>“With the twofold view of imposing on the turbulent tribes of
+the Sahara, and keeping myself beyond the reach of your attacks, I
+had constructed on the limits of the Tell, at great expense and
+amidst innumerable difficulties, a certain number of forts, which
+you afterwards destroyed. They were situated, in setting out from
+the west, at Sebdou; to the south of Tlemsen, at Saida; to the
+south of Mascara, at Tekedemt; to the south-east of the same town,
+at Taza; to the south of Miliana, at Boghar; to the south of Medea,
+at Bel Kherout, south-east of Algiers; and, lastly, at Biskra, to
+the south of Constantine.</p>
+
+<p>“I was convinced, in fact, that whenever the war
+re-commenced,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[123]</span> I
+should be obliged to abandon to you all the towns of the central
+line of the Atlas; but that it would be impossible for you, at
+least for a long time, to reach the Sahara; because the transports
+which encumber your armies would be a great obstacle in your way.
+Marshal Bugeaud proved to me that I was mistaken; but at the time I
+had only the experience of my action with his predecessors.</p>
+
+<p>“Nevertheless, even in face of the system pursued by Marshal
+Bugeaud, you would have found almost insurmountable difficulties in
+trying to reach my true line of defence, if the Arabs had only
+agreed to my proposition of rasing to the ground, and utterly
+destroying, the towns of Medea, Miliana, Mascara, and Tlemsen: that
+is to say, the steps of the ladder by which you gradually mounted
+so high.</p>
+
+<p>“Some argued that the French would soon re-build what I had
+destroyed; others, that it would be cruel to throw down, merely in
+view of an eventuality, what it had cost so much to erect. Both
+sides were wrong: I ought to have followed out my own
+inspiration.</p>
+
+<p>“Tekedemt, according to my project, was to have become a large
+town—a binding centre of commerce—between the Tell and the Sahara.
+The Arabs were pleased with its situation. They came there with
+much pleasure, because it afforded them great advantages. It was
+also a thorn I had placed in the eye of the independent tribes of
+the desert. They could neither escape me, nor incommode me. I held
+them by their bodily wants. The Sahara producing no crops, they
+would have been obliged to come to me for food. I had built
+Tekedemt over their heads. They felt it, and hastened to make their
+submission.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[124]</span>“In fact, from
+this time, I could always come upon them unexpectedly with my
+<em>goums</em> (irregular cavalry), and at least carry off their
+flocks and herds, if I did not stop to take their tents. The severe
+examples I made of some of the most distant tribes soon made them
+give up all hopes of being able to elude me. Thus all had finished
+by submitting to my authority, and regularly paying the
+<em>ashur</em> and the <em>zekka</em>. I used even to send and
+count their flocks, and they said not a word.</p>
+
+<p>“There are only four points in the desert which my authority had
+not reached: Mzab, Ourgla, Tougourt, and the Souf. The Benis Sidi
+Cheikh, however, had all acknowledged me. It is true I had granted
+them certain privileges, and I allowed them to pay a reduced
+impost; but they were a tribe of Marabouts, and it was my duty to
+pay them a certain degree of deference. As to the <em>ksours</em>
+(entrenched villages in the Sahara), they paid me little; nor did I
+care to be strict with them. They looked on my forbearance as a
+concession to their poverty. At a later period, however, I should
+have made them amenable to my orders, and have brought them into
+complete subjection.”</p>
+
+<p>Tekedemt, the town which Abdel Kader raised from its ruins,
+intending to make it the capital of his kingdom, had been built by
+the Romans. It is situated sixty miles to the south-east of Oran.
+Judging from the remains of its walls, it must have been ten miles
+in circumference. It contained two large temples. During the
+prosperous days of Arab dominion in Algeria, it was a seat of
+government, had a college, and produced its doctors and poets. The
+wars between the Caliphs of Kerouan and Fez, towards the close of
+the tenth century, doomed it to final destruction and oblivion.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[125]</span>The first stone
+of the new fortress was laid by Abdel Kader in May, 1836. He
+himself supplied the plans for the fortifications which were to
+surround it. He remitted the payment of tribute to all the tribes
+within a certain distance, on the condition of their sending
+labourers to assist in the construction of the ramparts. The people
+of Mascara brought baskets, shovels, and pickaxes. Medea and
+Miliana sent supplies of cheese and fruits of all kinds, which,
+with excellent white bread, and occasionally meat rations, formed
+the food and wages of the workmen. Soon houses and streets arose. A
+population poured in. Families of Arabs, of Moors, of Kolouglis,
+from Mascara, Mazagnan, and Mostaganem, came and settled. Old Roman
+vaults were turned into stores for ammunition, sulphur, saltpetre,
+brass, lead, and iron; and for all the machines, implements, and
+utensils which Miloud-ibn-Arasch had bought in France for the sum
+of £4,000. A musket manufactory turned out eight muskets a day, the
+work of French mechanics procured from Paris at liberal
+salaries.</p>
+
+<p>A mint struck off silver and copper coins, ranging in value from
+five shillings to twopence, and bearing on one side the
+inscription, “It is the will of God: I have appointed him my
+agent;” on the other, “Struck at Tekedemt, by the Sultan Abdel
+Kader.” Finally, twelve pieces of cannon and six mortars frowned
+from the ramparts; and the defences were complete.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader superintended all the works by constant personal
+inspection. M. de France, who was one of his prisoners during the
+time that these works were in their highest activity, thus
+describes what he saw:—“After having visited<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_126">[126]</span> the ruins, we came to a redoubt which
+Abdel Kader was erecting at about two hundred paces from his
+citadel. We approached the Sultan, who was reclining, in company
+with Ibn About, his secretary, and Miloud-ibn-Arasch, on the ground
+recently thrown up from a ditch which some men were busily
+digging.</p>
+
+<p>“His costume is so simple, that one can hardly distinguish him
+from the labourers. He wore a large straw hat, plaited with palm
+leaves. The brim, tied up to the body of the hat with woollen cords
+and tassels, must have been three feet in circumference. The hat
+itself was at least a foot and a half in height, and looked like a
+tunnel terminating in a peak.</p>
+
+<p>“As I passed the Sultan, he saluted me with that incomparable
+grace and fascinating smile for which he is so remarkable, and
+waved his hand for me to be seated. ‘To judge by the ruins,’ I
+remarked, ‘the town which was formerly here must have been large
+and flourishing.’ ‘Yes, it was very fine and very powerful,’ he
+answered. ‘Does the epoch of its foundation remount to a very
+ancient date?’ ‘Tekedemt is a very ancient town.’ ‘Do you think I
+shall be able to discover any stones with inscriptions?’ ‘You will
+find none. This town was never Christian. It was one of the first
+cities built by the Arabs. The sultans, my ancestors, who had their
+residence at Tekedemt, ruled from Tunis to Morocco.’</p>
+
+<p>“The Sultan then asked me what I thought of the construction of
+the fortifications. I replied that they appeared to me to be well
+proportioned and ably laid out, and that it was evident he had
+profited by a critical examination of our block-houses. He seemed
+quite pleased with my answer.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[127]</span>“‘Yes,’ he
+resumed, ‘with animation, I hope yet to restore Tekedemt to its
+ancient splendour. I will gather the tribes in this place, where we
+shall be secure from the attacks of the French; and when all my
+forces are collected, I will descend from this steep rock, like a
+vulture from his nest, and drive the Christians out of Algiers,
+Bona, and Oran.</p>
+
+<p>“‘If, indeed, you were content with those cities, I would suffer
+you to remain there; for the sea is not mine, and I have no ships.
+But you want our plains and our inland cities, and our mountains.
+Nay, you even covet our horses, our tents, our camels, and our
+women; and you leave your own country to come and take that in
+which Mohammed has placed his people. But your sultan is not a
+horseman or a saint; and your horses will stumble and fall on our
+mountains, for they are not surefooted like our horses; and your
+soldiers will die of sickness; and those whom the pestilence
+spares, will fall by our bullets.’”</p>
+
+<p>Had Abdel Kader been allowed time to complete his intentions, it
+was his design to have made Tekedemt not merely a place of
+strength, but a seat of learning; to have established a library and
+founded a college. “But,” to use his own expression, “God did not
+so will it. The books which I had brought from all parts of the
+east for this institution, were taken when the king’s son seized my
+smala; and to my other misfortunes was added that of being able to
+mark the traces of the French column, on their return to Medea, by
+the torn and scattered leaves of the books which it had cost me so
+much time and pains to collect.”</p>
+
+<p>During the years 1838 and 1839 Abdel Kader pushed on his plans
+of reform and improvement with wonderful rapidity.<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_128">[128]</span> His army, his police, his
+schools, his local tribunals of justice, were all fully
+constituted. His projected fortresses were completed. Manufactories
+conducted by Europeans were in full operation in all his principal
+towns. At Tlemsen, a Spaniard superintended a cannon foundry, which
+turned out twelve and six pounders.</p>
+
+<p>In Miliana, an eminent French mineralogist, M. de Casse,
+established a musket manufactory and powder-mills. Iron was
+procured from a mine in the neighbourhood. Cloth of superior
+quality was also manufactured. Mines of saltpetre, sulphur, iron,
+and brass, were diligently worked. Europeans were invited to come
+and settle in the country, with the right of holding freehold
+property. The land seemed to be waking up from a long slumber. The
+spirit of European civilisation everywhere percolated the torpid
+mass, lighting up the dark places, and piercing its way into the
+strongholds of ignorance and superstition.</p>
+
+<p>The irregular force at Abdel Kader’s disposal, during the early
+part of his career, amounted nominally to nearly 60,000 men. This
+included all the contingents which the tribes could, on emergency,
+supply. But rarely more than a third of that number ever assembled
+at one time, for the purpose of carrying out a military operation.
+A finer irregular cavalry did not exist.</p>
+
+<p>But Abdel Kader soon discovered the incompetency of such
+warriors to compete with the disciplined legions of the great
+military power he confronted. But to raise regular troops amongst a
+people who, even in the days of Turkish rule, had never been
+harassed by a conscription, and whose nature revolted at the very
+idea, was a hazardous experiment,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_129">[129]</span> requiring great tact and circumspection.
+Such a design could only be hinted at as a suggestion, not
+promulgated as a command.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, the following friendly invitation was posted up in
+all the towns and douairs:—“Whoever wishes to be clothed in fine
+cloth, and to become the son of the Sultan, let him come and engage
+himself: he shall be well paid, and indulged in everything.”
+Several young men were tempted by the inducement thus held out to
+present themselves for enlistment; and the formation of a regular
+army almost imperceptibly began.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader thus describes his military organisation:—“Besides
+the contingents of tribes who rallied at my call, or that of my
+Khalifas, and which constituted a powerful auxiliary force,
+although merely temporary, inasmuch as I was never able to keep
+them away from their tribes for any great length of time, I had
+latterly a regular army of 8,000 infantry, 2,000 cavalry or spahis,
+and 240 artillerymen. I had twenty field-pieces, without reckoning
+a large store of cannons both in iron and brass left by the Turks,
+many of which, however, it is true, were unfit for service.</p>
+
+<p>“I could thus afford to give each of my Khalifas 1,000 infantry,
+250 horsemen, two or three pieces of cannon, and thirty
+artillerymen. My infantry was recruited only by volunteers; but
+they were sufficient, considering my pecuniary means and the arms
+at my disposal. Later, if time had been afforded me, I should have
+used the French mode of raising soldiers. My religion would not
+have prevented me, for a Sultan may have recourse to enrolments to
+sustain the honour of his flag, and to save his country from
+Christian invasion.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[130]</span>“The instructors
+of my regular infantry were soldiers of the <em>nizam</em>, from
+Tunis and Tripoli, and French deserters. The latter became so
+numerous at last as to form a battalion of themselves, and fought
+against their own countrymen with a fury and desperation which was
+hardly rivalled by my own Mussulmans. I distributed them amongst my
+Khalifas.</p>
+
+<p>“As for my regular cavalry, they refused to be placed under
+instructors. In their style of war they were led by an independent
+pride which disdained to acknowledge a master. They knew they were
+worth nothing for a shock; but they thought themselves unrivalled
+in single combat, in ambuscade, surprise, and light skirmishing. It
+was no dishonour to them to fly before even inferior forces; their
+flight being often a mere feint. To do as much injury as possible
+to the enemy without exposing themselves to loss—that was the
+principle I inculcated on them.</p>
+
+<p>“All my regulars were armed with French or English muskets. I
+got them in battles, from deserters, or by purchase from Morocco.
+Every Arab found with a French musket in his possession, was
+obliged to sell it to me for a sum amounting to two English pounds
+sterling. He then provided himself with a <em>fusil</em> as best he
+could, either in the bazaars, or, when the tribe of the desert,
+coming to the Tell, inundated the country with arms from Tunis,
+from Tougourt, from the Mzab, and the Oulad-Sidi-Cheikh. I made my
+own powder at Tlemsen, Mascara, Miliana, Medea, and Tekedemt. I
+bought a good deal, also, from Morocco, where I also procured
+flints, of which our own country was completely destitute. Sulphur
+came from France. Saltpetre I found everywhere.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[131]</span>“During the
+peace, the French sea-coast towns supplied me with lead; Morocco
+yielded me a considerable quantity; and I worked a lead mine in the
+Ouarsenis. But all this was very costly; so I was very sparing in
+my distribution of the stores of the Beylik amongst the Arabs, who
+squander away their powder without reflection, in their festivities
+and games. I only deviated from this principle in favour of those
+who were employed in blockading the French garrisons, or when, on
+the field of battle, the ammunition ran short. I then distributed
+cartridges on the spot.</p>
+
+<p>“At the seat of government of each of my Khalifas, I had placed
+tailors, armourers, and saddlers, to make the clothing of my
+troops, repair their arms, and keep up their horse-equipments. I
+had also distributed many such workmen amongst the tribe, so as to
+make them also ready and efficient at a moment’s call. To meet the
+expenses of my administration, where everything had to be created,
+and though confining myself to what was strictly necessary, heavy
+imposts were indispensable.</p>
+
+<p>“I ordered my Khalifas to watch, personally, over everything
+connected with such an important matter. They made their tours
+twice a-year; once in the spring to collect the <em>zekka</em>, and
+during the harvest to gather the <em>ashur</em>. During these
+tours, they were expected to inspect and regulate the
+administration of the Aghas, to report to me any complaints made
+against them, and to superintend the working of the properties of
+the Beylik.</p>
+
+<p>“My Khalifas were followed by a regular battalion, their Spahis,
+and their irregular cavalry. The Arab people are so constituted,
+that if they had not seen a display of force, they<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_132">[132]</span> would have refused to pay the
+impost. After a temporary defeat, what difficulty have I not often
+experienced to raise again the proper return of contributions! ‘The
+Sultan,’ they would say, ‘is occupied with the Christians; he
+cannot compel us. Do not let us pay; let us see what will happen.’
+What invariably happened was, that they had eventually to pay up
+everything, with arrears; but nothing corrected them. The Arabs
+only look to the present moment.</p>
+
+<p>“At the same time that I demanded from the tribes what was
+necessary to support the Beylik, I endeavoured, as much as
+possible, to reconcile their interests with those of the State. My
+Khalifas were instructed to accept, in lieu of the impost or of
+fines, articles for consumption, mules, camels, and especially
+horses. With the horses I remounted my cavalry; the mules and
+camels gave me means of transport; with the provisions, I supplied
+my troops, or filled my magazines.</p>
+
+<p>“My resources were also augmented by <em>razzias</em>, which I
+made whenever the tribes appealed to arms to fight out their
+differences. I was resolved to be the sole arbiter of these
+differences, and I had laid it down as a rule, that not a shot
+should be fired without my permission. The horses, mules, or camels
+which I did not immediately require were distributed amongst the
+tribes, under the charge of agents, who, while they were liberally
+paid, were so checked, as to be unable to defraud.</p>
+
+<p>“It was well I looked to the future; for the number of horses I
+had to replace in my regular cavalry was immense. There is not a
+man amongst these troops who had not had<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_133">[133]</span> seven or eight horses killed under him, or
+rendered unserviceable. Indeed, it was not uncommon to find men who
+had lost from twelve to sixteen. Ibn Yahia—that noble soldier who,
+rather than survive my misfortunes, threw himself on certain death,
+in my last battle with the Maroccians (Dec., 1847)—had had eighteen
+horses killed under him. The emulation in this point was such, that
+any horseman who passed a year without being wounded or having a
+horse killed under him, was looked on with contempt.</p>
+
+<p>“As far as lay in my power, I also replaced the horses which my
+<em>goums</em>, or irregular cavalry contingents, lost in battle.
+They have had from me more than six thousand. But latterly, when I
+could no longer give them horses, I allowed them, in lieu of a
+horse, two camels, or thirty sheep, or a good mule. They sold those
+animals, and then with the price remounted themselves at their
+leisure. But, at last, I became so straitened as not even to be
+able to give them this indemnity.</p>
+
+<p>“To form an idea of the consumption of horses—in one year alone
+I gave 500 to the Gharabas of Oran, and nearly as many to the
+Hagouts in the plains of Algiers. At the same time, there were many
+which I never attempted to replace, either because their
+proprietors were rich, or because I had no longer the means.</p>
+
+<p>“The flocks and cattle which came from the <em>zekka</em> were
+entrusted to the tribe, under the superintendence of their Kaids.
+It was the duty of these officials to take account of them and
+appoint them shepherds, as well as to feed and take care of them.
+These animals, in the government of each Khalifa, served to defray
+the cost of guests, to support the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_134">[134]</span> poor, to assist the <em>tholbas</em> (men
+of letters), and to supply my army, who had meat twice a-week. By
+these means, I had begun to establish complete order in the
+administration of the revenues of each Beylik. But when the war
+broke out again, I was often defrauded, and the Arabs on every side
+took advantage of my preoccupations. The only two Khalifas who
+maintained order to the last were Abou Hamadi and Ibn Hallal; they
+were dreaded from their severity.</p>
+
+<p>“The precautions which I have mentioned did not always suffice
+for the nourishment of my army, at all the points on which it was
+called on by the necessities of war to act. Therefore, as I did not
+wish to burden the population with extra expenses, that might have
+indisposed them towards me, I ordered <em>silos</em> (underground
+vaults for corn) to be made in the territory of each Beylik. These
+<em>silos</em>, placed under the responsibility of the Kaid of each
+tribe, and so disposed as to escape the researches of the enemy,
+contained the grain of the <em>ashur</em>, or of the state lands,
+which were cultivated partly by forced, partly by paid, labour.</p>
+
+<p>I thus proved to the Arabs, who, from their nature, were always
+suspicious, that I took nothing for my personal wants from the
+imposts. I obliged them to pay for the general welfare, and they
+rendered me justice for it. The <em>silos</em>, in fact, postponed
+my fall. Their discovery and destruction by the French columns
+decided it. When once deprived of my stores of provisions, I was
+obliged to exhaust the resources of the tribe. When they felt the
+pressure from both sides fall heavy upon them, their ardour for the
+holy war relaxed.</p>
+
+<p>“As to me, what occasion was there for me to resort
+to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[135]</span> the public
+treasury to defray my expenses? Never, up to the moment when my
+private property fell into the hands of the French, did I touch the
+smallest fraction of what the Arabs gave me for the public
+expenses; and since that, I have only taken what was absolutely
+necessary. My clothes were made by the women of my household; my
+little income sufficed for the wants of my family. Even the small
+surplus which was left me, I spent in assisting the poor, the
+traveller, and more especially the needy among my brave
+companions-in-arms who had been wounded in the holy war.</p>
+
+<p>“By acting thus, I could consistently call on the Arabs to make
+great sacrifices; for I showed them that the <em>zekka</em>, the
+<em>ashur</em>, fines, contributions—all my resources, in fact—were
+scrupulously devoted to the maintenance of the public welfare. In
+1839, when the war recommenced, I called upon the Arabs for an
+extraordinary loan; but they contributed very slowly. I immediately
+sold all my family jewels by auction in the bazaars of Mascara,
+proclaiming publicly that the proceeds were to be sent to the
+public treasury. The loan was then very soon advanced; and it
+seemed only to be a question who should pay first.”</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Abdel Kader began to form a regular army, he drew up
+and published a military code, containing the most minute
+regulations for the discipline, pay, and clothing of his troops.
+This code was read out to the different regiments twice a month. It
+was interspersed with injunctions, and promises of reward for good
+behaviour, of which the following may be taken as an example:—</p>
+
+<p>“It is indispensably necessary that a chief should be personally
+brave and courageous; that he should be of a good<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_136">[136]</span> family, irreproachable in his
+morals, strictly religious, patient, enduring, prudent, prompt, and
+intelligent in the hour of difficulty and danger; for the officer
+is to his men what the heart is to the body; if the heart is not
+sound, the body is worthless.</p>
+
+<p>“A soldier who throws himself dashingly on the enemy’s ranks,
+disables and disarms his foe, or, by rallying the men when on the
+point of retreating, prevents a panic by his example and presence
+of mind, shall be decorated by the Sultan himself before the whole
+army; and his heroism shall be proclaimed by beat of drum.”</p>
+
+<p>The decoration thus conferred varied in appearance, according to
+the bearer’s merits. It consisted of a silver or silver-gilt hand
+with extended fingers. The number of fingers extended notified the
+number of acts of bravery performed. Each finger extended entitled
+the bearer to extra pay, amounting to a shilling a month. In the
+centre of the decoration was inscribed the words
+<em>Nusr-ed-deen</em>, or “the triumph of religion.” It was worn,
+not on the breast, but affixed to one side of the hood of the
+burnous. It was sometimes also given to civilians who had rendered
+great administrative services.</p>
+
+<p>The uniform of the foot soldier was dark blue, with scarlet
+pantaloons, a brown capote, and a small cap and turban. His pay
+amounted to nine francs a month. On the right sleeve of each
+commanding officer were embroidered the words, “Patience and
+perseverance are the key to victory;” on the left, “There is no god
+but God, and Mohammed is his Prophet.” Embroidered on his right
+shoulder of the Aga, in place of an epaulette, were marked the
+words, “Nothing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[137]</span>
+profits like piety and courage;” on the left, “Nothing is so
+injurious as discussion and want of obedience.”</p>
+
+<p>All the officers throughout the army had inscriptions of a like
+tendency embroidered on their uniforms. The spahis, or regular
+cavalry, were clothed in scarlet exclusively. Their colonels wore
+the device, “Trust in God and the Prophet—charge and conquer;”
+those of the artillery, “I can effect nothing: it is God who
+directs the shot.” Thus was religion, its duties and its efficacy,
+placed ever prominently forward by Abdel Kader, not only in his
+army, but in his whole administration, as the indispensable
+foundation and support of human exertion.</p>
+
+<p>The following allusion to himself, with which his military code
+closes, placed him before his officers and men as a model to be
+copied and emulated. Nor was there any exaggeration in its
+expressions.</p>
+
+<p>“Il Hadj Abdel Kader cares not for this world, and withdraws
+from it as much as his avocations will permit. He despises wealth
+and riches. He lives with the greatest plainness and sobriety. He
+is always simply clad. He rises in the middle of the night to
+recommend his own soul and the souls of his followers to God. His
+chief pleasure is in praying to God with fasting, that his sins may
+be forgiven.</p>
+
+<p>“He is incorruptible. He never takes anything out of the public
+funds for himself. All the presents which are brought to him he
+sends to the public treasury; for he serves the State, not himself.
+He neither eats, nor drinks, nor dresses, but as religion ordains.
+When he administers justice, he hears complaints with the greatest
+patience. A smile is always on his face for the encouragement of
+those<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[138]</span> who approach
+him. His decisions are conformable to the words of the sacred book.
+He hates the man who does not act uprightly; but honours him who
+strictly observes the precepts and practises the duties of
+religion.</p>
+
+<p>“From his boyhood he learned to mount the most fiery horse
+without a teacher. He never turns before an enemy; but awaits him
+firmly. In a retreat he fights like a common soldier, rallying his
+men by his words and example, and sharing in all their dangers.
+Thus, brave, disinterested, and pious, when he preaches, his words
+bring tears into all eyes, and melt the hardest hearts. All who
+hear him become good Mussulmans.</p>
+
+<p>“He explains the most difficult passages of the Koran and of the
+Hadeeth (Traditions) without referring to books or Ulemahs. The
+most learned Arabs and the greatest Talebs acknowledge him as their
+master and teacher. May God increase his nobleness of character,
+his wisdom, his learning, his understanding, his honour, glory, and
+success, a thousandfold!”</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[139]</span><a id=
+"c11"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1838-1839.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Abdel Kader</span> now saw himself
+the founder of an empire. The strength and versatility of his
+genius had given cohesion and compactness to elements the most
+adverse and discordant. Hundreds of tribes bowed beneath his
+warlike sceptre. On all sides were seen the good results of order
+and good government. His external relations attested the magic of
+his power, and the splendour of his fame. Sovereigns and Viceroys,
+from the Emperor of Morocco to those of Egypt, Tunis, and Tripoli,
+vied with each other in tendering him marks of respect and
+admiration. The Ulemahs of Mecca and Alexandria watched with holy
+joy and expectation the career of one who seemed destined to revive
+the pristine glories of Islam.</p>
+
+<p>Burning to accomplish his secret mission in its fullest extent,
+Abdel Kader lost not an hour, by day or by night, in planning,
+arranging, and executing new schemes of progress and improvement.
+To make the Arabs of Algeria one people, to recall them to the
+strict observance of their religious duties, to inspire them with
+patriotism, to call forth all their dormant capabilities, whether
+for war, for commerce, for agriculture, or for mental improvement;
+and then to crown the whole with the impress of European
+civilisation—such was his mighty and comprehensive ideal.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[140]</span>His amazing
+activity, vigour, and enterprise, had overcome difficulties
+apparently insuperable. His victorious sword, whether striking down
+the enemy from without, or his rivals from within, had proved the
+indomitable energy of a will which had but to conceive in order to
+accomplish. He was now to show that he could achieve victories
+without soldiers, and reap laurels unstained by blood.</p>
+
+<p>Warrior, orator, diplomatist, statesman, and legislator, the
+secret of his force lay in his intellectual grandeur. His letters,
+his speeches, his conversations, all bear the stamp of their own
+peculiar freshness and originality. His natural eloquence, enriched
+by study, matured by meditation, and enhanced by the singular
+charms and graces of his manner, operated like a spell.</p>
+
+<p>The provinces of Oran and Tittery, the plains of the Sahara, had
+been won by his military prowess. The grand Kabylia, that superb
+range of the Djurjura, extending towards the east, from Algiers to
+Borigia, was now to be the scene of a nobler triumph, one gained by
+the exhibition of moral power. The hardy Kabyles inhabiting those
+regions had defied every attempt to subjugate them. As independent
+republics, bound together by the most exalted spirit of freedom,
+they had preserved their usages, their customs, their laws, intact
+amidst the changing governments which had risen and fallen around
+them.</p>
+
+<p>It was clear that this nursery of soldiers, if once brought
+under his control, would give Abdel Kader a never-failing element
+of support, and if necessary, of aggression. Alone, he determined
+to effect by persuasion what others had failed to achieve by the
+force of arms. In September, 1839, he suddenly<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_141">[141]</span> appeared at Borj Hamze, followed by only
+50 cavalry. His faithful Khalifa, Ben Salem, was by his side. To
+the question, what the Sultan proposed to do, the answer was, “To
+conquer the Djurjura!” The expedition set forth.</p>
+
+<p>The first slopes were rapidly passed. The appearance of the
+little cavalcade, as it plunged into the deepest ravines and
+gorges, or ascended almost perpendicular heights, spread surprise
+and astonishment amongst the mountaineers, gazing from their huts
+and precipices at the unwonted spectacle.</p>
+
+<p>Presently the rumour spread that Abdel Kader was there. The
+magic name resounded from rock to rock. From their valleys, their
+dells, their fastnesses, the Kabyles came streaming forth to hail
+their famous guest. Thousands at length gathered about his tent.
+The press of Sheiks and Marabouts blocked up the entrance. The
+people crowded round, some rudely intruding themselves, by lifting
+up the folds of the tent to gratify their curiosity. The escort
+pushed them aside with the words, “Back with you! you are going to
+smother our master.” Abdel Kader saw their disappointment. “Let
+them approach,” he mildly said, “let them approach; they are rough
+and wild like their mountains. Excuse them, you cannot change their
+natures in a day.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader now demanded to see the chiefs who commanded them.
+“We obey our <em>Ameens</em> and our <em>Marabouts</em>,” was the
+reply. The <em>Ameens</em> came forward to pay their respects.
+“Which of them represents the whole?” “We have no single chief,”
+responded the jealous republicans, “to whom we delegate our power.
+Our <em>Ameens</em>, chosen by the popular voice, express the
+general will.” Abdel Kader<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_142">[142]</span> ordered a space to be cleared, and bade the
+throng sit down. A large circle was formed. He stood in the midst,
+with a string of beads in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>And now, in one of those stirring harangues which convinced the
+understanding, and melted the hearts of all who heard him, Abdel
+Kader adjured them to rally round his standard. He came not, he
+said, amongst them, like the Turks, with the emblems of brute
+force; he came amongst them as a simple pilgrim, relying on the
+cause he upheld, the cause of God and his Prophet. In a hundred
+glorious combats, glorious for Islamism, he had defeated the
+infidels, who strove to subdue their land. All the west obeyed his
+laws, and if he chose, it would be as easy for him to roll the west
+on the east, as to roll up the carpet on which he stood.</p>
+
+<p>“If you tell me that the east is stronger than the west,” he
+continued, “I reply, God sends me victory, on account of the purity
+of the motives which guide and direct me. You know, besides, what
+is written in the Koran, ‘Elephants are subdued by flies; lions
+have been killed by mice.’</p>
+
+<p>“Be assured, that if I had not firmly opposed the invasions of
+the French, if I had not shown them their weakness and impotency,
+they would have dashed over you before this, like a raging sea, and
+then you would have seen what neither times past nor times present
+has ever witnessed. They have left their own country merely to
+conquer and enslave ours. But I am the thorn that God has planted
+in their eyes, and if you will assist me I will drive them into the
+sea.</p>
+
+<p>“Otherwise they will subjugate and humiliate you. Be grateful to
+me, then, that I am their mortal enemy. Rouse yourselves, O
+Kabyles! Awake from your apathy. Believe<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_143">[143]</span> me, I have at heart no other wish than that
+of the happiness, welfare, and prosperity of Mussulmans. All I
+exact from you this day is, obedience and concord, and the strict
+observance of our sacred law, that we may triumph over the infidel.
+And to support our armies, I only demand from you what is specified
+and ordained by God, the Master of the universe.</p>
+
+<p>“I wish not to change your customs, or alter your laws and
+usages; but the conducting of warlike operations demands a chief. I
+summon you to join the Holy War. Choose a chief. I recommend you
+Ben Salem. If you choose him, he will be like a compass for you in
+the hour of danger and trial. I call God to witness the truth and
+sincerity of my words. If they do not find their way to your
+hearts, you will yet repent one day; but that repentance will be
+too late. It is by reason and not by force that I seek to convince
+you. I pray God to direct and enlighten you.”</p>
+
+<p>A general shout arose: “Give us Ben Salem, give us Ben Salem.
+Take the <em>zekka</em>; take the <em>ashur</em>. Lead us against
+the infidels. We are your children, your soldiers, your
+slaves!”</p>
+
+<p>After installing Ben Salem as his Khalifa in the Djurjura,
+amidst much pomp and rejoicing, Abdel Kader continued his peaceful
+tour throughout that hospitable land. For thirty days his progress
+was one continued scene of rejoicing. Whenever it was known that he
+had halted, the simple-minded and enthusiastic mountaineers poured
+in with their <em>diffas</em>, or enormous plates of rice,
+sprinkled over with bits of meat: each one placing his
+<em>diffa</em> before the Sultan’s tent, and insisting on his
+partaking—“Eat, it is my <em>diffa</em>.” To avoid<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_144">[144]</span> giving offence, Abdel Kader
+was obliged to taste each plate successively.</p>
+
+<p>This short excursion had been sufficient to make him known and
+appreciated. The courtesy and affability of his manners, his
+well-known piety, his fame as an Ulemah, the venerated title of
+Hadj and Marabout, his brilliant renown as a warrior, his eloquence
+as a preacher, all combined to make his appeal irresistible. Not
+one of those fierce and indomitable mountaineers who saw and heard
+him could escape the influence of this extraordinary combination of
+advantages. Their poets made him the topic of their songs. Abdel
+Kader bade them adieu. With difficulty he escaped from their
+friendly and hospitable importunities; but at length he departed.
+The Djurjura had been conquered; and Abdel Kader could say, like
+Cæsar, “<em>Veni, vidi, vici.</em>”</p>
+
+<p>Unwearied in his exertions to elevate, as well as to mould and
+direct, the national character of the Arabs, Abdel Kader had early
+established a system of public education amongst all the tribes.
+“My duty,” he afterwards said, “as sovereign and as Mussulman was
+to support and exalt science and religion. In the towns and
+throughout the tribes I opened schools, where children were taught
+their prayers, where the first and most important precepts of the
+Koran were inculcated, and where reading, writing, and arithmetic
+were fully taught.</p>
+
+<p>“Those who desired to push their education further were sent,
+free of expense, to the <em>zouias</em> and mosques. There they
+found <em>tolbas</em> ready to instruct them in history and
+theology. I appointed the <em>tolbas</em> a salary according to
+their learning and deserts. So important did it appear in my eyes
+to give<span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">[145]</span>
+encouragement to learning, that more than once I have remitted
+sentence of death to a criminal from the mere fact of his being a
+<em>tolba</em>. It requires such a long time in our country to
+become well instructed, that I had not the courage to destroy in
+one day the fruit of years of laborious study.</p>
+
+<p>“The occupant of a cot may cut down a palm-tree which incommodes
+him; but how many years must he wait before he can taste the fruit
+of one that he plants!</p>
+
+<p>“In order to assist the studies of the <em>tolbas</em>, I took
+the greatest pains to prevent the destruction of books and
+manuscripts. I had the more reason for being so anxious in this
+respect, as with us it takes months to make a single copy. I
+therefore gave strict orders throughout the towns and tribes that
+the greatest care should be taken of all manuscripts, and that if
+any person were found destroying or defacing one, he should be
+severely punished.</p>
+
+<p>“Knowing my wishes on this point, my soldiers even were in the
+habit of carefully bringing in to me any manuscripts which fell
+into their hands in a <em>razzia</em>; and in order to stimulate
+their zeal in this respect, I always gave them a handsome reward.
+By degrees I made a large collection of such manuscripts, and had
+them safely deposited in the <em>zouias</em> and mosques, and
+entrusted to the care of <em>tolbas</em> in whom I had
+confidence.</p>
+
+<p>“In the same way as I provided for a system of public
+instruction, I established the administration of justice. The
+<em>kadis</em> had a monthly salary, besides perquisites, for the
+performance of certain duties. I desired that the representatives
+of justice should be seen everywhere, and even that they should
+follow my army on its march. The Turks put to<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_146">[146]</span> death by caprice and cruelty: I allowed
+no execution to take place except by virtue of a sentence given
+according to the law of God, of which I merely considered myself
+the executor.</p>
+
+<p>“Thus, wherever my columns went, they were accompanied by a
+<em>kadi</em> and two assistants, one of whom (the chief of the
+police) carried the judgments into execution. He was not looked
+upon with aversion on that account, since it is not the executioner
+who kills, but the law. No doubt many have suffered by my order,
+but never without a legal sentence. All had committed crimes of
+some sort, or betrayed their religion. Now, according to our books,
+whoever aids the enemy with his goods, forfeits his goods; and
+whoever aids him with his arms, forfeits his head.</p>
+
+<p>“Thanks to the vigilance of my khalifas, of the agas and the
+kaids, and to the responsibility which I had attached to the tribes
+for all crimes or thefts committed on their territory, the roads
+had become perfectly secure. The vigilance of the police left
+nothing to be desired. In a word, amongst a people living under
+tents, and consequently difficult to manage and control, owing to
+the vast spaces over which they were dispersed, I had arrived at
+such a point that horse-stealing by night was no more known; and a
+woman could go about alone without fear of being insulted. When
+comments were made on this great result, and the reason asked, the
+Arabs replied, ‘The Sultan’s nets are there, we need not use our
+own.’</p>
+
+<p>“The public morals were equally stimulated by my reforms.
+Prostitution was severely repressed, and if God had willed it, I
+should have ended by restoring the Arabs to the path of the Koran,
+from which they had so widely deviated.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[147]</span>“I had totally
+forbidden the use of gold and silver on the clothes of the men, for
+I abhorred the prodigality and luxury which enervates. I only
+tolerated such ornaments on weapons and on harness. Should we not
+cherish and adorn what so much contributes to our safety? The women
+were not included in this prohibition. The weaker sex requires
+compensation, when man has all the excitements he can desire—war,
+the chase, mental occupation, government, religion, science.</p>
+
+<p>“I was the first to set an example, by wearing clothes as simple
+as the meanest of my servants. If I did this, it was certainly not
+in the fear of being a mark for the balls of the enemy, but because
+I wished to be able to exact from the Arabs nothing but what I
+practised myself, and to show them that in the eyes of God it was
+better to buy arms, ammunition, and horses to make war, than to be
+covered with fine and expensive, but useless, ornaments.</p>
+
+<p>“Wine and gambling were severely interdicted. Tobacco was
+likewise prohibited. Not that the use of tobacco is forbidden by
+our religion, but my soldiers were poor, and I was anxious to keep
+them from a habit which has a tendency to increase, and which
+sometimes reaches such a pitch that men have been known to leave
+their families in misery, and to sell even their clothes, to
+gratify their passion for it. There was smoking still, but it was
+only occasionally, and even then in secret. This was already a
+great step gained. As to the Marabouts, the <em>tolbas</em>, and
+all who were attached to the government, they renounced the
+practice of smoking completely. This fact shows, at all events, in
+what a measure I had succeeded in being obeyed.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[148]</span>“Such was
+already the extent and success of my organisation; and considering
+the short space of time which had as yet been allowed me, the
+reforms were not inconsiderable. They proved, at all events, what I
+should have ultimately effected. But the son of the French king
+came with an army from Constantine, and without giving me the
+slightest notice, traversed the territory which was incontestably
+mine by the Treaty of the Tafna, fought with the contingents of my
+Khalifa Ben Salem, at Ben-Hinny, and was thus the cause of the
+renewal of hostilities.”</p>
+
+<p>It was only by his own constant and unremitting personal
+supervision that Abdel Kader was enabled to carry forward and
+complete his extensive plans of reform and amelioration. Ever on
+the move, reviewing his troops, visiting his arsenals, examining
+his schools, administering justice, the young Sultan of the Arabs
+seemed to embody the principle of progress, and, like a beneficent
+genius, to scatter the blessings of knowledge, security, and
+contentment through the land.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as it was known that he had arrived in a district, the
+tribe all hastened to pay their visits of ceremony and respect,
+vying with each other in their profuse and generous hospitality.
+Each tribe was preceded by its Kaid on horseback. Then came the
+men, women, and children, walking two and two, bearing on their
+heads plates of the national dish—the <em>couscoussia</em>. The
+more wealthy Arabs formed a procession apart, carrying whole sheep,
+spitted and roasted on a stake.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching the Sultan’s tent, before which thirty negroes
+always stood in attendance, the plates were ranged along the
+ground, and the stakes stuck in a row, until the Sultan
+had<span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[149]</span> signified his
+acceptance of the offering, when they at once became the perquisite
+of his train and escort. The sheiks then entered and kissed hands.
+Each brought the tribute of his tribe, or produced receipts for its
+payment, from the khalifa within whose jurisdiction his tribe
+resided. The commonalty were then admitted and did obeisance. If
+the day was a Friday, Abdel Kader came forth and preached.</p>
+
+<p>As long as the Sultan remained in any place, he was the sole
+dispenser of justice. The tent door was the “King’s gate.” There he
+heard complaints and redressed grievances. In criminal cases he
+decided without appeal. The Koran always lay open before him. His
+condemnations were motioned rather than delivered. If he elevated
+his hand, the prisoner was carried back to prison. If he held it
+out horizontally, he was led out to execution. If he pointed to the
+ground, he received the bastinado. Civil cases were referred to the
+Ulemahs. All decisions were made according to the Koran, to the
+text and spirit of which Abdel Kader bowed with undeviating
+reverence and submission. The Koran, in fact, was the guiding star
+of his public and private life.</p>
+
+<p>At last, Abdel Kadir had succeeded in establishing a machinery
+of government, which, by the harmonious relationship of its various
+parts, gave fair promise of success and durability. The simple
+hierarchy he had created was exactly conformable to the
+administrative wants and hereditary sentiments of his people. The
+public functionaries were few, their salaries moderate, their
+spheres of action well defined. If their power was absolute, and
+their sway over the public revenues extensive, the lynx-eyed
+vigilance of the Chief of the State precluded the possibility of
+tyranny, corruption, or abuse.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[150]</span>With a just
+appreciation of the beneficial effects resulting from a due regard
+to the natural gradations of society, and with a thorough knowledge
+of the instinctive deference paid by the Arabs to blood and
+descent, he filled all his more important posts with men of noble
+birth. But those thus selected were, at the same time, men of good
+character and spotless reputation—examples to be followed, as well
+as rulers to be obeyed. A high and lofty sense of duty and
+self-respect thus came to pervade all ranks, from the apex to the
+basis of the social pyramid; and religion, virtue, honour, and
+morality, which had been blighted by the withering dominion of the
+Turks, revived.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had now performed his task. He had beaten the
+French. He had signed a glorious peace. His kingdom was a model of
+order and regularity. He trusted he might now be allowed to lay
+down the sceptre. He had come forward at his country’s call. He had
+vindicated its choice. He now sought permission to return to that
+seclusion and retirement, that life of study and devotion, which he
+had so reluctantly abandoned. With this view, he wrote to the
+Sultan of Morocco.</p>
+
+<p>After the usual titles due to sovereignty, the letter thus
+proceeded:—</p>
+
+<p>“The people of Algeria are now united. The standard of the
+Djehad is furled. The roads are secure and practicable. The usages
+of barbarism have been abandoned and obliterated. A girl can
+traverse the land alone, by night and by day, from east to west,
+without fearing obstruction. A man even meeting the murderer of his
+brother dares not retaliate, but appeals for justice to the
+authorities.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">[151]</span>“The book of
+Almighty God and the law of His Prophet are the only rules of
+adjudication. Provisions for the support of our army abound, as
+well as men to fill the ranks. All this must be attributed to the
+blessing of God, obtained through your prayers and approbation.
+Otherwise, we should have been the weakest of men for such
+achievements.</p>
+
+<p>“We did not come forward and assume the task of government from
+ambitious motives, or a desire for exaltation and power, or a love
+for the vanities of this world; but (and God knows the secrets of
+my heart) to fight the battles of the Lord, to prevent the
+fratricidal effusion of the blood of Moslems, to protect their
+properties, and to pacify the country, as zeal for the faith and
+patriotism require.</p>
+
+<p>“We have been ever on the alert, night and day, moving through
+the length and breadth of the land, in mountains and in plains;
+sometimes leading forth to battle, and at other times regulating
+affairs. We now beg your Highness to send one of your sons,
+grandsons, or servants, to assume the reins of government; for now
+there is neither trouble nor opposition from any quarter. I will be
+the first to serve under him, and to exert my poor abilities to the
+utmost, to counsel and advise him.</p>
+
+<p>“I trust to that consideration and indulgence which
+distinguishes you, to accept this my prayer to be relieved from the
+charge which is weighing on me.</p>
+
+<p>“I send your Highness some presents which have been sent me by
+the King of the French, from which I have only retained a pair of
+pistols. Also some of the best mules in Algeria. Their number,
+together with that of the other articles, are detailed in the
+account enclosed in this letter.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">[152]</span>“We beg you to
+accept our excuses, and hope for the expression of your pleasure
+and approbation. The presents will be delivered to you by my
+brother, whom I have deputed in my place, to seek the honour of an
+interview with your Highness, and to convey to you the dutiful
+regards and assurances of devotion of your son and servant,</p>
+
+<p class="right pad-right2">“<span class="sc">Abdel Kader ibn
+Mehi-ed-deen</span>.</p>
+
+<p>“<em>October</em>, 1838.</p>
+
+<p>“<em>Moharrem</em>, 1254.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">The words written by Brougham on
+Washington might, indeed, have been admirably applied to Abdel
+Kader at this remarkable juncture of his life:—“A triumphant
+warrior, where the most sanguine had a right to despair; a
+successful ruler in all the difficulties of a course wholly
+untried; but a warrior whose sword only left its sheath when the
+first law of our nature commanded it to be drawn; and a ruler who,
+having tasted of supreme power, gently and unostentatiously desired
+that the cup might pass from him, nor would suffer more to wet his
+lips, than the most solemn and sacred duty to his country and his
+God required.”</p>
+
+<p>Sultan Abderahman, in a highly complimentary reply, refused even
+for a moment to hear of such self-renunciation on the part of one
+who had shown himself so eminently fitted to command, to organise,
+to renovate, and to save his country. He called on Abdel Kader, in
+the sacred name of Islamism, to stand forth, as ever, the champion
+of the Djehad, to complete his noble work, and to extend and
+accomplish his victorious career. Finally, he begged the young
+Sultan to send him his shirt, that he might hang it up in his
+private mosque as a saintly relic!</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">[153]</span><a id=
+"c12"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1839.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Scarcely</span> had the “Treaty of
+the Tafna” been signed, when its defects and inconsistencies became
+apparent. It was impossible that a measure, hurried on by General
+Bugeaud to a hasty and immature conclusion, solely in order to
+enable him to send the troops under his command in the province of
+Oran, that they might take part in the siege of Constantine, could
+have had any other result.</p>
+
+<p>The General, defending his act in the French Chamber, during the
+session of 1838, thus expressed himself:—“Much has been said about
+the defects in the details of the treaty. I frankly avow there were
+some, but I think their importance has been exaggerated. There is
+only one of any consequence, and that is the expression, ‘as far as
+the Wady Kuddra, and <em>beyond</em>.’ This word may imply, as far
+as the province of Constantine. The expression is certainly vague;
+but it must be remembered that I was hard pushed for time. A
+steamer was waiting for my dispatch. It was absolutely necessary
+that I should conclude for war or for peace.”</p>
+
+<p>But it was precisely the doubt hanging over the proper
+interpretation of this word as it stood in Arabic, which kept open
+the door for endless disputes and misunderstandings, and ended by
+nullifying the treaty altogether. So hastily and inconsiderately,
+indeed, had it been drawn up, that a few<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_154">[154]</span> days after the peace, when a French
+detachment had occasion to go from Arzew to Mostaganem, Abdel
+Kader, without opposing its march, sent to Bugeaud to remark that
+the French troops had violated his territory. The complaint was
+perfectly just, inasmuch as no mention had been made in the treaty
+of the right of passage.</p>
+
+<p>The evils arising from incorrect translations are notorious. In
+the diplomatic relations, between Abdel Kader and the French
+authorities, more than one had occurred, which, had they been
+discovered by the latter, might have entailed serious
+complications. But Abdel Kader was satisfied, in general, with what
+he had written in Arabic, and the French authorities with what they
+had written in French, and no more questions were asked.</p>
+
+<p>One instance may be given. The French had always placed at the
+head of their treaties, that Abdel Kader acknowledged the
+sovereignty of France. Abdel Kader never dreamed of making any such
+admission. It would have cost him his throne. What he had written,
+in Arabic, in the article he subscribed was, properly translated,
+“The Emir Abdel Kader acknowledges that there is a French Sultan,
+and that he is great.” The difference is wide.</p>
+
+<p>In a matter of limits of territory, moreover, such matters
+become of vital importance; and Abdel Kader was the last person to
+yield a point, when he felt he was borne out by justice and common
+sense in maintaining it.</p>
+
+<p>By the French version of the 2nd article of the “Treaty of the
+Tafna,” France is declared to possess, in the province of Algiers,
+“Algiers, the Sahel, the plain of the Metija, extending to the east
+as far as the Wady Kuddra, and <em>beyond</em>.”<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_155">[155]</span> So the French chose to
+translate the Arabic word “<em>fauk</em>,” which really means,
+“above.” The Gordian knot which the French had made, and which they
+at last unscrupulously cut with the sword, was this: they had given
+themselves a limit, and yet wanted to have no limit. All their
+efforts to make Abdel Kader stultify himself, by subscribing to
+this solecism, were unavailing.</p>
+
+<p>Because the Arab Sultan maintained the absurdity of such a
+proceeding, and finally threw down the gauntlet of defiance rather
+than sacrifice the interests of his subjects and co-religionists,
+he was held up to execration as a rebel, as a breaker of treaties,
+as a man of wild and unprincipled ambition. He was treated as if he
+were contending with the lawful possessors of the land; not
+fighting, as was truly the case, against invaders, who had come to
+its shores denying all schemes of aggrandisement, and pledged to
+achieve the single object for which they came, and then
+withdraw.</p>
+
+<p>In presence of a treaty, which each party read and construed
+after its own fashion, political and commercial relations of any
+durable or confidential nature were clearly impossible. An attempt,
+at least, to come to some understanding was indispensable. The task
+of entering on a discussion with Abdel Kader on the subject
+devolved on Marshal Valée, who assumed the functions of
+Governor-General in Algiers, on November 30th, 1837.</p>
+
+<p>The Marshal applied to the French Ministry for instructions. The
+reply thus simply and categorically announces the doctrine of
+appropriation. “By the words, ‘Wady Kuddra, and <em>beyond</em>,’
+must be understood, all the country in the province of Algiers
+which is beyond the Wady Kuddra, up<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_156">[156]</span> to the province of Constantine. The
+evidence of right, independent of political considerations, permits
+no concession on that point. Since we are masters of the province
+of Constantine, we cannot be without land communication with
+it.”</p>
+
+<p>The Marshal forwarded this view of the question to Abdel Kader,
+with his own comments, as follows:—“France has ceded to you all the
+province of Oran, less the reserved districts; all the ancient
+Beylik of Tittery, without exception; lastly, all that part of the
+province of Algiers situate to the west of the Chiffa. But you can
+have no pretension to any part of that province which lies to the
+east of that river. As for the Beylik of Constantine, about that
+there can be no misunderstanding, as it is not even spoken of in
+the treaty; and, moreover, it was placed under the rule of Achmet
+Bey when the treaty was signed.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader replied;—“As regards the Beylik of Constantine,
+there can be no difficulty: on that point we are agreed. But it is
+not so as regards the province of Algiers. Remember what happened
+at the time of the treaty. I wished to limit you to the plain of
+Algiers. General Bugeaud begged me to extend this limit, and I
+consented. I ceded the country as far as the Wady Kuddra towards
+the east, and as far as Blidah, inclusively, towards the south. The
+expression, ‘as far as the Wady Kuddra and above,’ must have a
+value. If not, why was it inserted in the treaty? If it signifies
+anything, it must mean that you are limited to the east, as you are
+to the west.</p>
+
+<p>“To justify your interpretation, you base your reasoning on the
+necessity there is for you to have a land communication between
+Constantine and Algiers. But you admit, in the<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_157">[157]</span> same breath, that Constantine was not
+yours when the treaty was signed. Consequently, you clearly could
+not have reserved for yourself a tract of country in anticipation
+of an event which had not yet happened. Besides, is it anything
+extraordinary, that you should have done towards the east, what you
+have done towards the west?</p>
+
+<p>“Arzew and Mostaganem belong to you; yet you have not claimed or
+appropriated the tract of country which lies between those two
+towns. Do not let us fling ourselves into interpretations. Let us
+keep to the text; and let us frankly say, that all that portion of
+the province of Algiers which is not included between the Chiffa on
+the west, and Wady Kuddra on the east, and the first chain of
+mountains on the south, belongs to me.”</p>
+
+<p>“But,” answered the Marshal, “your interpretation is erroneous;
+for you forget the word <em>beyond</em>, which is also in the
+treaty. ‘As far as Wady Kuddra, and <em>beyond</em>’—which
+evidently meant, at the signing of the treaty, up to the very
+limits of the province of Algiers in that direction. But since that
+time we have taken Constantine. It means now, therefore, as far as
+the <em>frontiers of Tunis</em>.”</p>
+
+<p>Nowithstanding this pat of the lion’s paw, Abdel Kader retorted
+with the coolness of a logician.</p>
+
+<p>“The word <em>beyond</em>,” he wrote, “signifies something; but
+the Arab word <em>fauk</em> translated as you translate
+it—<em>beyond</em>—means nothing at all. Let us make an experiment.
+Take any twenty Arabs you choose to select, and ask them the
+meaning of the word <em>fauk</em>. If they say that the natural
+interpretation of this word can, by any twisting of meaning, be
+made to signify ‘<em>beyond</em>,’ I will accept your
+interpretation.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">[158]</span>
+Take all the territory between Wady Kuddra and the province of
+Constantine. But if, on the other hand, they all decide that the
+word, what you translate ‘<em>beyond</em>,’ really and strictly
+means <em>above</em>, accept the proposal I make you. This proposal
+is to give over to you, as a limit towards the east, the first
+crest of mountains which rises <em>above</em> the Wady Kuddra.”</p>
+
+<p>The Marshal prudently declined the test. He might have declared
+war at once; but war with Abdel Kader was not so enticing as to be
+lightly undertaken. A better mode of getting over the difficulty
+suggested itself. Abdel Kader was ardently engaged in the task of
+organisation. Peace was indispensable to him. Attentions,
+flatteries, cajolements—or, these failing, petty annoyances and
+harassing vexations—might mollify or weary out his tenacious
+spirit. Both were tried; but both ineffectually.</p>
+
+<p>In the mean time Abdel Kader was firmly establishing himself in
+all the districts to the south of Tittery. With a boldness and
+rapidity of movement, which paralysed and subdued, he laid his iron
+hand on all the tribes on the borders of the province of
+Constantine, who were known or even suspected of intriguing with
+the French. He boldly occupied the disputed territory beyond the
+Wady Kuddra. More than that, he made it the scene of one of those
+acts of uncompromising severity, with which he visited all traitors
+to the faith.</p>
+
+<p>A colony of Kolouglis had lately settled there, trusting for
+their security to French protection. Their kaid, a Turk, had
+received French investiture. Abdel Kader summoned them to break off
+their treasonable connection. They refused. The French supplied
+them with arms and ammunition to resist.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_159">[159]</span> Abdel Kader swept down on them, crushed
+them, and cut off the Frenchified kaid’s head. All the tribes of
+the vast district of Sebaou instantly sent in their adhesion; and
+the Sultan appointed Achmet Ibn Salem to be his Khalifa over
+them.</p>
+
+<p>In the midst of these successes, Abdel Kader was threatened with
+a rival. Achmet Bey, when turned out of Constantine, had taken
+refuge in Mount Aures. He had commenced agitating amongst the
+tribes of the district of Zab. Biskara, its capital, was in the
+possession of his most implacable enemy, Farhat-ibn-Said. This
+chief applied to the French for assistance to defend the country
+against the Bey, promising that, in case of success, it should be
+made to submit to French domination. The French were lukewarm; and
+so he turned to Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>Before entering the Zab country by force of arms, Abdel Kader
+considered it expedient to inform the French Governor at
+Constantine of his intention. As the friend and ally of France, he
+said, he was going to quell the disturbances which had arisen
+there, and save it from anarchy. Since agitation so near a French
+province might prove contagious, he considered it was in the
+interest of France that he undertook the expedition.</p>
+
+<p>Having sent this communication, Abdel Kader ordered Ibn Berkani,
+his Khalifa at Miliana, to collect his forces, and march on
+Biskara. Farhat received him with open arms. A combined attack was
+made on Achmet Bey, who was defeated, and hid himself in the
+Sahara. Farhat expected to be named the Sultan’s Khalifa over the
+Zab. To his disgust, the latter appointed one of his own chiefs,
+Ben Azouz, to that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">[160]</span>
+post. In revenge, he immediately began to correspond with the
+French. The correspondence was intercepted. Of his treason there
+could be no doubt. He was seized, and sent in chains to
+Tekedemt.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was now absolute sovereign of two-thirds of Algeria.
+The country which he had newly occupied, to the south-east of the
+province of Algeria, was one of the greatest utility to the French,
+since the garrison of Constantine drew from it its provisions, and
+they could not but feel that Abdel Kader could now at any moment
+stop the supply.</p>
+
+<p>Well aware that all those movements would awaken the jealousy,
+if not excite the alarm, of the French authorities in the regency,
+Abdel Kader made a step towards setting himself right with the
+French Government at home. After the treaty of the Tafna, Louis
+Philippe had sent him a magnificent present of costly arms. These
+gifts Abdel Kader had forwarded, as usual, to the Sultan of
+Morocco. The arms he prized but little; but they enabled him to pay
+a graceful tribute to one, on whose friendship and assistance he
+greatly relied.</p>
+
+<p>Miloud-ibn-Arasch and Durand, the Jew, were now sent to Paris to
+return the compliment. They took with them six splendid Arab
+horses, as a gift to the King of the French. The presentation of
+this complimentary peace-offering was the ostensible object of
+their mission. But their secret instructions were to soften down
+any acrimonious feeling which might exist on the part of the French
+Government towards their master—to explain away his recent conduct
+in such a manner as to leave a favourable impression—and to
+procure, if possible, a confirmation of his reading of the disputed
+article in the Treaty of the Tafna.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">[161]</span>Marshal Valée
+was fully cognisant of the whole of this proceeding. In fact, he
+had contrived to see Ibn Arasch for a short half-hour, on his way,
+at Algiers; and during this interview he had immediately began to
+argue about the true meaning of the article. Divining the real
+object of the ostentatious embassy, he had written to his
+Government, warning it against making any concessions which might
+interfere with his own course of negotiation. The Arab envoys,
+consequently, were graciously received; their horses were admired
+and praised. They themselves were brilliantly entertained. All the
+sights of Paris were shown them; and, in the French phrase of the
+time, they were the “lions” of the day. But when they broached the
+subject of the disputed article, their mouths were stopped with an
+evasion or a compliment.</p>
+
+<p>On their return to Algiers, after their fruitless mission, the
+envoys were summoned by the Marshal to an interview. He drew out of
+his pocket an amended version of the treaty, in which the ground
+contested was given over to the French, Abdel Kader receiving in
+exchange the districts of the Beni Djead, Hamza, and Oranougla;
+whilst, at the same time, the measures of corn and barley which by
+the treaty he had engaged to furnish, were remitted to him. Ibn
+Arasch declared he was not authorised to negotiate.</p>
+
+<p>The envoy was still further pressed, and he at last offered to
+affix his own seal to the document, to show that personally he
+acceded to the stipulation. But he positively refused to be
+answerable for his master’s approval. The perplexity of the affair
+was mitigated by a proposal on the part of the French to send a
+commission to the Sultan, and accordingly<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_162">[162]</span> a commission started. On reaching Miliana,
+the Khalifa there refused to allow the French commissioners to
+proceed, without instructions from the Sultan. Ibn Arasch feigned
+illness, and escaped to Mascara.</p>
+
+<p>The Marshal was again thrown on his own resources. He
+propitiated the Emir by friendly offices. He sent him cannon and
+ammunition to assist him in the siege of Ain Maadi. These timely
+succours arrived there most opportunely; in fact they turned the
+scale of fortune, then trembling in the balance. But no concession
+was obtained. Abdel Kader felt himself in the right. He would not
+be put in the wrong.</p>
+
+<p>He returned to Tekedemt, January 10th, 1839. His envoy,
+trembling and doubtful as to the reception he should receive,
+presented himself, to give an account of his late proceedings. When
+Abdel Kader learnt that he had affixed his seal to a document which
+gave away all for which he had been so long and so persistently
+contending, he was almost beside himself with vexation and anger.
+“Never,” he exclaimed, “never will I ratify a convention which
+gives the French a land communication between Constantine and
+Algiers, and thus lose all the advantages I have gained by their
+oversight in circumscribing Algiers within a circle formed by the
+sea, the Chiffa, and the summits of the lesser Atlas, immediately
+above the Wady Kuddra.”</p>
+
+<p>The vacillating policy of the French Government had hitherto
+prevented it from taking any decisive step for the settlement of
+this interminable dispute. Now, it talked of confining the French
+occupation to Bona, Algiers, and Oran. Anon, it announced its
+intention of asserting its rights in the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_163">[163]</span> interior by force of arms. In the meantime
+Abdel Kader was hourly extending his dominion. Where was all this
+to end? The momentous question could no longer be avoided, and the
+French Government at last determined to act. Abdel Kader it could
+not reach. But his agents were within its grasp. It determined to
+operate on him through them.</p>
+
+<p>By the treaty of the Tafna, Abdel Kader was clearly entitled to
+nominate what agents he pleased, to reside near the French
+authorities in all places occupied by French garrisons. These
+agents were now, under various pretences, arbitrarily ignored, or
+assailed with studied affronts. Some inoffensive Moors who wanted
+to go and settle on Abdel Kader’s territory—a privilege which the
+treaty had secured to all Mussulmans—were rudely treated and
+violently detained within the French lines. A wheelwright whom
+Abdel Kader had long been in the habit of employing to make
+gun-carriages for him in Algiers, had his shop closed and was
+expelled the town.</p>
+
+<p>By the 7th Article, Abdel Kader was entitled to be furnished
+with whatever arms or ammunition, or materials for war, he might
+require, by the French authorities, at cost price. His agent at
+Algiers was expressly instructed to facilitate such a transaction.
+He had been further useful in procuring for his master French
+mechanics from Paris, to superintend his various internal
+improvements, in strict conformity with the 10th Article. The agent
+was now suddenly arrested, put into chains, and sent to France.
+Abdel Kader appealed to Marshal Valée against such monstrous
+infringements of his rights. He was told the Marshal had unlimited
+authority, and could do what he pleased.</p>
+
+<p>His consul at Algiers was a certain Italian, named
+Garavini,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">[164]</span> who was
+also consular agent for the United States of America. For nearly
+two years this agent had exercised this double function without
+molestation. He was now informed that the French Government refused
+to acknowledge him in the first capacity. Abdel Kader had just
+returned from Ain Maadi when he received this notification. He
+immediately penned the following letter to Marshal Valée:—</p>
+
+<p>“The Prince of the Faithful, who defends by arms the cause of
+God, Il Hadj Abdel Kader, son of Mehi-ed-deen (whom God preserve in
+his holy keeping), to the Governor of Algiers. Grace be to those
+who conform themselves to the will of God.</p>
+
+<p>“Our consul, Garavini, has informed us that he is no longer
+allowed to occupy himself with our affairs. You have written him a
+letter, of which he has sent me a copy. This letter we have read,
+and we have understood it. It prescribes to him to leave our
+service, and announces that you wish his place to be supplied by an
+Arab.</p>
+
+<p>“In the first place, we cannot find any Arab who could perform
+his functions in such a manner as to give satisfaction to our two
+nations, and promote their reciprocal interests. Garavini is a wise
+and discreet man, who only upholds what may be advantageous to both
+parties. In the next place, France has no right to force us to take
+a consul against our will and inclination. It is for us to judge
+what is best for us to do. If you wish to name an Arab as your
+consul with us, do so. We shall offer no objection. Why do you
+interfere with our choice of agents? Do we interfere with yours?
+Your way of acting violates the sacred principles of honour which
+ought to animate our respective modes of proceeding.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">[165]</span>“It would almost
+seem that you were desirous of seeing disorders once more prevail
+in the districts of Algiers and Oran. Individuals wishing to come
+and reside on our territory have not only been arbitrarily
+prevented, but have been fined, and thrown into prison. When our
+consul, Garavini, protested against such proceedings, you disdained
+to reply to him; you would have nothing to say to him. Such conduct
+denotes violence of character. It shows that you desire to provoke
+misunderstandings between us and the French Government. We have
+chosen a Christian out of your own town, and you reject him!</p>
+
+<p>“However, since usages are thus violated, since we are thwarted
+in what regards the good of our service, since there is evidently a
+design to lower us, we are ready for a rupture as soon as it may
+please you. All the world knows that we have chosen Garavini. We
+shall choose no other. Write to your ministry, therefore, that we
+mean to keep our consul Garavini. We expect an immediate
+answer.</p>
+
+<p>“We hope France will send a more moderate man to command in
+Algiers, a man who will let us enjoy the fruits of peace, a man who
+will do what is just and reasonable. We had hoped that your mode of
+acting would not have been like that of some of those erring men
+who have preceded you. But if you choose to tread in the steps of
+such persons, God, be assured, will make us victorious over our
+enemies, over those who unjustly seek to molest us. God has said,
+‘Let injustice fall on the head of its author;’ He has also said,
+‘It is better to be the oppressed than the oppressor.’ As for us,
+we will not deviate an inch from the treaty, if you will only abide
+by it.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">[166]</span>All the
+satisfaction Abdel Kader could obtain in reply to this able and
+spirited remonstrance, was that the French Government understood
+the 15th Article to mean that the consuls named by the Emir should
+be taken from amongst the Arabs, in the same way as the consuls
+named by the French Government were taken from amongst the
+French.</p>
+
+<p>The extensile qualities of the Treaty of the Tafna seemed, in
+the eyes of the French authorities, to be as illimitable as their
+own powers of constructive reasoning. But they were, as yet, as far
+from their object as ever. Abdel Kader would neither be cajoled nor
+bullied. All their devices had failed. Matters had come to a dead
+lock.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">[167]</span><a id=
+"c13"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1839.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Marshal Valée</span>,
+notwithstanding his repeated failures, determined to make one more
+effort to obtain Abdel Kader’s adhesion to the views taken by his
+Government on the disputed article. In the month of February, 1839,
+Commandant de Salles was sent on a mission to the head-quarters of
+the Sultan, who was then at Miliana. The object of his mission was
+to induce Abdel Kader to give his sanction and approval to the
+supplementary treaty, which had been signed by his enemy,
+Miloud-ibn-Arasch.</p>
+
+<p>Although a continuation of the peace was of vital importance to
+Abdel Kader, in order to enable him to complete his work of
+organisation, yet to yield the disputed territory was to him a
+moral and political impossibility.</p>
+
+<p>Politically it was impossible to him, because the territory in
+question, once ceded to the French, would have given them free
+means of communication between the provinces of Algiers and
+Constantine, and would thereby have rendered their possessions more
+compact, and proportionally augmented their aggresive power.
+Morally it was so also, because, not only was it repugnant to his
+own sense of honour to yield up tamely and submissively a point on
+which he felt himself to be in the right, but the mainstay of his
+hourly-increasing influence, gained by the almost magic success
+with which he had gradually circumscribed the French to within
+little more<span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">[168]</span> than
+gunshot of their own fortresses, would have been dangerously
+imperilled by any such concession.</p>
+
+<p>He had already repeatedly pacified many anxious inquirers, by
+the assurance that France would never dare to overstep the limits
+assigned to her in the plain of Algiers. It was on the strength of
+this assurance that the military and religious chiefs, convoked on
+the Habra, had consented to the peace. Without their consent,
+whatever might have been his own inclinations, he was precluded
+from listening to any modification of the treaty.</p>
+
+<p>Already, too, sinister reports and insinuations were circulated
+by the fanatical party that he was secretly paying tribute to the
+French; that the infidels had received his permission to settle on
+the sacred soil of Islam, and that the tolerance of such a
+profanation was little consistent with his lofty boast that he
+would, ere long, drive them all into the sea.</p>
+
+<p>Placed in this delicate position, Abdel Kader resolved on again
+convoking all the principal personages in his kingdom, and again
+calling on them to arbitrate on the differences existing between
+him and the French Government. The French commissioner was informed
+of this intention, and invited to attend the meeting, with full
+permission to enounce his propositions. He accepted the invitation,
+though with small hopes that he should be able to obtain from the
+Sultan’s council of war, concessions which the pressure of his
+Government had failed to obtain from the Sultan himself.</p>
+
+<p>The course of action which Abdel Kader thus adopted was,
+however, the only one which afforded any prospect for a peaceable
+adjustment of affairs. Marshal Valée had always ascribed Abdel
+Kader’s pertinacity to his individual pride and<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_169">[169]</span> ambition. His feelings of
+irritation at the manner in which all means of accommodation had
+been rejected, were increased by the inward conviction that the
+obstacles raised were the consequence of his adversary’s personal
+caprice. Abdel Kader counted on his present proceeding to dispel
+the Marshal’s delusion, if not to induce him to adopt a change of
+conduct. The Marshal would discover that it was not the sentiments
+of an individual, but those of a whole people, with which he was
+contending.</p>
+
+<p>The council of war met. The French envoy spoke; but the decision
+was unanimous: “War, rather than give up the disputed territory.”
+M. de Salles returned to Algiers to state the result of his
+mission. Abdel Kader, on his part, without waiting for further
+circumvolutions of policy in that direction, appealed at once to a
+higher quarter, and addressed the following letter to the King of
+the French:—</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15">“Praise be to the One God!</p>
+
+<p class="hang1">“The servant of God, Il Hadj Abdel Kader, ibn
+Mehi-ed-deen, Commander of the Faithful, to H.M. Louis Philippe,
+King of the French: may his reign be long, happy, and full of
+glory.</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">“Since the foundation of Islamism,
+Mussulmans and Christians have been at war. For ages this was a
+sacred obligation on both sects; but the Christians, neglecting
+their religion and its precepts, have finished by looking on war
+merely as a means of worldly aggrandisement.</p>
+
+<p>“To the true Mussulman, on the contrary, war against the
+Christians is merely a religious obligation; how much more so when
+Christians come to invade Mussulman territory!<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_170">[170]</span> According to this principle, I deviated
+from the rules laid down in our sacred books, when, two years ago,
+I made with you, King of the Christians, a treaty of peace; and
+more especially when I endeavoured to consolidate this peace by
+every means in my power. You know the duties imposed by the Koran
+on every Mussulman prince; therefore you ought to give me credit
+for having taken upon myself to relax, as regards you, the rigour
+of its precepts.</p>
+
+<p>“But you now demand a sacrifice from me which is too formally in
+contradiction with my religion to allow me to submit to it; and you
+are too just to impose it on me as a necessity. You call upon me to
+abandon tribes whose submission I have received; who came to me of
+themselves to pay me the imposts prescribed by the Koran, and who
+beseeched me, and still beseech me, to govern them. I have myself
+traversed their territory, <em>which, moreover, is beyond the
+limits of that which the treaty reserved to France</em>; and can
+you now wish, by another treaty, that I should order those tribes
+to submit to the yoke of the Christians?</p>
+
+<p>“No. If the French are my friends, they can never desire to
+bring about a state of things which would lower and degrade their
+ally in the eyes of his people. They would not for the sake of a
+few miserable tribes, to govern which, themselves, or leave to
+others to govern, can be of very little moment to them, place me in
+the terrible alternative either of breaking the law, or of
+renouncing a peace which is so desirable for us both.</p>
+
+<p>“But some may tell you that this consideration which forces me
+to reclaim those tribes will oblige me to reclaim the Arabs of
+Metija, of Oran, and of Constantine. No; for those<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_171">[171]</span> have remained, and still
+remain, with the French of their own free will; and I have reserved
+to myself the right of giving an asylum to those amongst them who
+may become disgusted with Christian dominion. Whereas, the tribes
+in question, who are not nomad, but are attached to the soil, seek
+to be under my government, and are too numerous to allow of my
+giving them grounds in my territory equal to those they might wish
+to abandon.</p>
+
+<p>“Great King of the French! God has appointed each of us to
+govern some of his creatures. You are in a position far superior to
+mine, by the number, power, and riches of your subjects; but on
+both of us he has imposed the obligation of making our people
+happy. Examine, then, with me our positions; and you will
+acknowledge that on you alone depends the happiness of both
+people.</p>
+
+<p>“‘Sign,’ I am told by your agents; ‘or if you do not sign, your
+refusal will be war.’ Well, I will not sign; and yet I desire
+peace—nothing but peace.</p>
+
+<p>“In order that a treaty should be useful to your subjects, it is
+necessary that I should be feared and respected by mine; for the
+moment they see that, according to my good pleasure, I hand them
+over to the administration of the Christians, they will no longer
+have any confidence in me, and then it will be impossible for me to
+make them observe the least clause in the treaty.</p>
+
+<p>“How can you be compromised—you, Sultan of the French nation—by
+making concessions to a young Emir, whose power is now beginning to
+be strengthened and fortified under your shadow? Ought you not
+rather to protect me, to be indulgent towards me—me, who have
+re-established order amongst tribes which were slaying each other;
+who seek every day to<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_172">[172]</span> raise in them a taste for the arts and for
+liberal professions? Help me, in the place of embarrassing me, and
+God will recompense you.</p>
+
+<p>“If the war breaks out again, there will be no more commerce,
+which might confer such inestimable advantages on the country, and
+no more security for the colonists. There will be increased
+expenses, and diminished productions. The blood of your soldiers
+will be uselessly shed; it will be a partisan war to the death. I
+have not the folly to suppose that I can openly make head against
+your troops; but I can harass them without ceasing. I shall lose
+ground, no doubt; but then I have on my side, knowledge of the
+country, the frugality and hardy temperament of my Arabs, and, more
+than all, the arm of God, who supports the oppressed.</p>
+
+<p>“If, on the contrary, you wish for peace, our two countries will
+be as one; the least of your subjects will enjoy the most perfect
+security amongst the tribes; the two peoples will intermix more and
+more every day; and you will have the glory of having introduced
+into our countries that civilisation of which the Christians are
+the apostles.</p>
+
+<p>“You will comprehend, I am sure, what I say; you will grant me
+what I ask; and what I ask is this,—that you do not see in a
+refusal to sign a new treaty, the desire of recommencing war, but
+rather the wish to consolidate the basis of the old one, and to
+confirm a sincere friendship between our nations.</p>
+
+<p>“May God inspire you with an answer worthy of your power, and
+the goodness of your heart.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">The almost supplicating earnestness of
+this simple and straightforward letter fully evinces the anxiety
+entertained<span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">[173]</span> by
+Abdel Kader at the aspect which affairs between himself and the
+French were now assuming, and his sense of the vast importance to
+himself of a continuation of the peace. On the 31st May, 1839, the
+ministry of M. Molé was overthrown. A false report had reached
+Algiers, that he had been replaced by M. Thiers, with Marshal
+Gerard as Minister of War.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader immediately wrote again to the king, and, at the
+same time, addressed two letters to the said ministers, with a
+power of language and a form of argument, which could only have
+emanated from a mind consoled and supported by the rectitude of its
+intention, and a firm and unshaken reliance in the justice of its
+cause.</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15"><span class="sc">Letter to the
+King</span>.</p>
+
+<p>“I have written you three letters, in which I gave you all my
+thoughts; not one of them has been honoured with an answer. They
+have been, doubtless, intercepted; for you are too kind and
+considerate not to have given me the satisfaction of knowing what
+were your true feelings and dispositions. May this, my last
+attempt, meet with better success! May this exposition of what is
+passing in Africa attract and fix your attention, and lead to a
+system which shall conduce to the welfare and happiness of the two
+populations whom God has confided to your care and solicitude!</p>
+
+<p>“The behaviour of your lieutenants is most unjust with regard to
+me; and I cannot suppose that it is known to you; I have too much
+confidence in your justice to suppose it. Endeavours are being made
+to induce you to regard me as your enemy. You are imposed on; if I
+were your enemy, I should already have found many causes for
+commencing hostilities.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">[174]</span>“Since my
+refusal to sign the new treaty, presented to me by M. de Salles on
+the part of Marshal Valée (my motives for which I have already
+explained to you in one of my former letters), there is no kind of
+injustice with which I have not been assailed by your
+representatives at Algiers. My soldiers have been arrested and
+thrown into prison without any legal cause; an order has been given
+not to allow the importation of any more iron, or brass, or lead,
+into my country; my agents in Algiers have been ill-treated by the
+authorities; my most important letters are answered by a simple
+receipt, cavalierly handed to the horseman who bears them; letters
+written to me from Algiers are intercepted.</p>
+
+<p>“After such treatment they tell you I am your enemy. They say
+that I want war at any price—I who desire, in every way, to follow
+the example of your industrious nation—I, who in spite of these
+tokens of hostility, facilitate the arrival of all the productions
+of my country into your markets—I who surround myself with
+Europeans, in order to give an impetus to industry, and who issue
+the most stringent orders that your merchants, and even your men of
+science, should not only be allowed to travel all over my country
+in perfect security, but be received and treated with
+hospitality.</p>
+
+<p>“But you may be told—‘The Emir has not yet fulfilled the first
+conditions imposed on him by the treaty of the Tafna.’ To this I
+reply, I have only postponed the execution of these clauses,
+because your representative, Bugeaud, broke, in the first place,
+his engagements.</p>
+
+<p>“Where are all the supplies of muskets, of powder, of lead, of
+sulphur, which were promised to me? Why do I still see at Oran the
+chiefs of the Douairs and Zmelas, whose<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_175">[175]</span> removal to France was solemnly promised me?
+Does Bugeaud think I have not yet in my possession the particular
+treaty, the only one which interests me, written out entirely in
+his own hand, and signed with his seal? Could I believe for an
+instant that written promises from the representative of the King
+of the French could possibly be invalid?</p>
+
+<p>“I confess, I had so high an idea of the good faith of French
+Christians, that I was scandalised by their want of good faith, and
+that having had no direct communication with you, I refused to sign
+another treaty.</p>
+
+<p>“Yes, your military deputies only wish for new combats and fresh
+conquests. I am certain this system is not yours. You have not
+descended on the shores of Africa to exterminate its inhabitants,
+nor to drive them from the country. You wished to bring them the
+benefits of civilisation. You came not to make a nation of slaves,
+but rather to implant amidst the people that spirit of liberty
+which is the most powerful lever of your own nation, and with which
+it has dowried so many other countries.</p>
+
+<p>“Is it by the force of arms, is it by bad faith, that your
+agents will accomplish this end? Should the Arabs be at last
+convinced that you have come to attack their religion and conquer
+their country, their hatred will grow stronger than ever. They will
+break away from my control and authority, and our mutual prospects
+of civilisation will vanish away for ever.</p>
+
+<p>“I pray and entreat you then, in the name of God, who has
+created us both, to try and understand a little better this young
+Arab, whom the Most High has placed, despite himself, at the head
+of a simple and ignorant people, and who is<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_176">[176]</span> falsely represented to you as being an
+ambitious chief. Make him acquainted with your intentions. Above
+all, communicate with him directly, and his conduct will prove to
+you that he has been badly appreciated.</p>
+
+<p>“May God grant you the light necessary to govern your people
+wisely.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">The letter to M. Thiers was couched in the
+following terms:—</p>
+
+<p>“I congratulate France on your return to the ministry. The
+important labours which formerly signalised your presence in it,
+and the interest you always bear towards Algiers, make me salute
+you with joy.</p>
+
+<p>“Your countrymen who are about me have informed me that your
+post is charged more especially with watching and superintending
+the prosperity of France. A part of Africa is become French. In
+speaking to you of the dangers which menace the prosperity of the
+two countries, I perform a duty.</p>
+
+<p>“Counsellor of the King of the French, it is for your
+enlightenment, it is for your philanthropy, to strengthen and
+consolidate a peace which France and Algiers both demand.</p>
+
+<p>“The despotic caprices of the agents of an honoured Government,
+the failures in the execution of a treaty on the one side, leading
+to similar failures on the other; and the greedy and unprincipled
+ambitions of some, who aim at new spheres of riches and emoluments,
+threaten to mingle French and Arab blood, when, to my belief, the
+real truth is, that we all long for a peace which will bring to the
+Arabs the precious results of progress and civilisation, and to
+France the glory of having conferred them.</p>
+
+<p>“You are great for France—be so for Africa; and both<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_177">[177]</span> countries will bless you. Your
+influence with a king, whose minister you are, and your counsels to
+a young Emir—entirely ignorant of the intricacies of European
+politics—are the materials with which you might erect a monument of
+glory for your own nation, and one of happiness and gratitude for
+mine.</p>
+
+<p>“May God assist and enlighten you, and maintain you in the high
+position of which you are so worthy!”</p>
+
+<p>The letter to Marshal Gerard was not less admirably conceived.
+It ran as follows:—</p>
+
+<p>“As soon as I was informed that the powerful King of the French
+had made you Minister of War, I had reason to be rejoiced. I felt
+that one who has nothing to add to his military glory, could never
+look to the French occupation in Africa as his sole field for
+military distinction. One who, like you, knows how to make war,
+must also know how to make peace, and to enjoy its fruits.</p>
+
+<p>“This peace is menaced; and wherefore? For the sake of a few
+leagues of ground, and a road impracticable from its natural
+difficulties. Has not France sufficient military glory—has it not
+space enough—that it should seek to acquire more at the expense of
+my influence over Arabs, whom I have bound myself to keep in
+submission?</p>
+
+<p>“My religion prevents me from violating my engagements. Why,
+then, seek, without any necessity, to lower me in the eyes of my
+co-religionists by calling on me to give over and place under
+French administration populations, to whom it is my duty, by the
+injunctions of our law, to preach the holy war? Let those who would
+compel me to do so try to understand my religion, and the
+obligations which it imposes<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_178">[178]</span> upon me; and then, perhaps, they may be
+inclined to give me credit for the sacrifices I am making.</p>
+
+<p>“I approach you, then, to call your attention to the exactments
+of a local administration, which I refuse to believe can be guided
+in its acts by the wishes of France and of its chief. The French
+are too great to inspire the vexatious meannesses to which my
+subjects are constantly exposed in their relations with your
+representatives at Algiers. My dignity has obliged me to suspend
+these relations in part. When I saw that they were anxious enough
+to take the produce of our soil, but refused to supply the iron
+necessary for cultivating it, I said to them, ‘Sell, but buy no
+more; God who has given us land has also placed in our mountains
+all the metals which our pretended civilisers refuse us.’</p>
+
+<p>“I pray to God, that your powerful influence with the king may
+be employed in seconding my pacific views; and that you and his
+noble son may, for the sake of self-information, come and visit
+this country, and meet with him whom you wrongly look upon as your
+enemy. Then your penetration and your genius, finding in me only
+sincerity and the desire of doing good, will assist me in
+moderating, either by civilisation or by arms, the fanaticism of
+populations who are only just beginning to appreciate the
+advantages of peace and industry.</p>
+
+<p>“May God make your armies victorious so long as they fight in
+the true cause.”</p>
+
+<p>These were noble words—words well worthy of being recorded. They
+were noble in the grandeur of their appeal—noble, as indicating the
+heroic struggle which rent and lacerated the breast of one
+conscious of his powers, burning<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_179">[179]</span> with great designs, and painfully
+oscillating between a nervous anxiety to prolong a peace which
+would have enabled him to exhibit before the world a Mohammedan
+kingdom at its highest possible pitch of progress and development,
+and the lofty determination to abandon even this his heart’s
+desire, and to waive the brilliant future, if such objects could
+only be attained by a craven submission, however temporary, to the
+imperious dictates of an overbearing and unprincipled ambition.</p>
+
+<p>Such appeals, it may be well imagined, were entirely thrown away
+on a government which, finding itself entangled in a labyrinth, and
+thus fettered in the realisation of its secret views, was bent on
+adopting any measures likely to deliver it from its embarrassing
+position, however inconsistent they might be with good faith.</p>
+
+<p>Thus, whilst Abdel Kader was still fondly dreaming over the
+possible fulfilment of plans and projects, meant to harmonise and
+combine the requirements of Mohammedanism with the advantages of
+European intercourse, and the fruits of European civilisation, the
+subtle and powerful enemy with whom he was coping was already
+meditating a line of action which was destined, before long, to
+scatter those plans and projects to the winds.</p>
+
+<p>Both parties, it is true, wished for peace; but whereas the one
+sought for it as a temporary expedient, the other clung to it as a
+vital principle. Both were bound to their respective people by
+pledges and obligations, from which they could not recede. Abdel
+Kader had vowed to keep the French at his sword’s point, in every
+case of unjustifiable aggression. His attitude was clear and
+unequivocal; it embodied the strength and the simplicity of
+truth.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_180">[180]</span>The French
+Government, on the other hand, had officially and falsely declared
+to the Chambers, that the difficulties which had been raised about
+the Treaty of the Tafna had been explained to the advantage of
+France, and that the possession of the disputed territory was
+henceforth assured. The pen had easily traced such words, and the
+mouth had freely spoken them. But it required the sword to make
+good and establish this foregone conclusion.</p>
+
+<p>The state of doubt and uncertainty had now reached its utmost
+limit. The period of compliments, of evasions, of hollow
+friendship, of hypocritical alliance, had passed away. The
+co-existence of Abdel Kader and France on the soil of Algeria was
+henceforth impossible. Freed from the entanglements of diplomatic
+garniture, the gladiators again stood face to face, ready to
+descend into the arena.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_181">[181]</span><a id=
+"c14"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1839-1840.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Marshal Valée</span>, while
+informing his Government of the inutility of all his efforts to
+induce Abdel Kader to yield to his remonstrances, made proposals of
+his own as to the best mode of action to be pursued.</p>
+
+<p>“The Government,” he suggested, “might either assume a defensive
+attitude, protesting against the Emir’s seizure of the disputed
+territory, and trusting to time and friendly offices to make him
+relax his hold; or it might attack him at once; or, again, it might
+place a force on the ground in question, intimating to the Emir
+that such a measure was not intended as a hostile demonstration,
+but merely as a joint occupation whilst the final arrangement was
+still pending.”</p>
+
+<p>The Government accepted the last proposition, with the
+modification, that, instead of the permanent occupation of Hamzé
+and its neighbourhood, a corps should merely traverse the country,
+and that if the Emir resented such a proceeding, explanations might
+be given.</p>
+
+<p>The Duke of Orleans had lately arrived at Algiers. In order to
+give the projected movement a greater degree of importance, it was
+arranged that he should superintend its execution. An expedition
+was to start from Milah, in the province of Constantine, penetrate
+the pass of the “Iron Gates,” cross the disputed territory, and
+thence onwards to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_182">[182]</span>
+Algiers. All the secrecy necessary for the accomplishment of a
+stratagem of war was used in order to give effect to the
+project.</p>
+
+<p>A demonstration was made towards Boujie. The Kabyles rushed to
+that quarter to defend their country against the threatened
+invasion. The Marshal and the Prince left Milah on the 18th
+October, 1839, and going in an opposite direction, reached Setif on
+the 21st. Here, also, the Kabyles presented themselves. Their
+sheiks demanded an interview. Admitted to an audience with the
+French generals, they were shown passports, bearing Abdel Kader’s
+seal, authorising the passage of French troops, and they were
+satisfied. These passports were an artifice—Abdel Kader’s seal had
+been forged!</p>
+
+<p>In place of entering the Kabyle mountains, the column which had
+been moved towards Boujie was countermarched, and joining the
+Marshal, advanced with him in the direction of the “Iron Gates.”
+The country was mountainous and intricate; but the Kabyle chiefs,
+serving as guides, were all delighted to facilitate the progress of
+the friends and allies of their Sultan. Under these auspicious
+circumstances the expedition, amounting to nearly 5,000 men, passed
+through the formidable defile of the “Iron Gates” without firing a
+shot. Had Abdel Kader been there with but 500 men, they would
+either never have entered it, or never emerged from it.</p>
+
+<p>The next day the French passed through the Kabyle tribe, Beni
+Munsoor, who stared at them as if they had dropped from the clouds.
+On the 31st the column reached Ben Ini. There, at last, the French
+and Kabyles exchanged shots. Ben Salem, the Emir’s Khalifa over
+that district, starting, as from a troubled dream, when informed of
+the approach of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_183">[183]</span>
+French, had just had sufficient time to make a tardy and useless
+demonstration against the invaders. On the 1st of November the
+Prince and the Marshal made a triumphal entry into Algiers, and
+were greeted with loud acclamations. The festivities to celebrate
+the event lasted four whole days. A splendid entertainment was
+given on the esplanade of the Bab-el-Oued to the heroes of the
+“Iron Gates.” Enthusiastic toasts were drunk in their honour. A
+palm wreath, plucked and woven in the pass itself, was formally
+presented to the Prince. Algeria was supposed to be conquered. It
+was the triumph of Caligula over the cockle-shells of Britain.</p>
+
+<p>The idea on the part of the French Marshal had been that Abdel
+Kader might possibly write an angry letter or two on hearing of
+this unexpected irruption, that explanations would be given, and
+that there the matter would end. He was soon undeceived. The news
+of the passage of the “Iron Gates” reached Abdel Kader at Tekedemt.
+In eight-and-forty hours, by riding night and day, he was at Medea,
+and on the 4th of November he sent off the following dispatch to
+Marshal Valée:—</p>
+
+<p>“We were at peace, and the limits between your country and mine
+were clearly defined, when the King’s son set out with a <em>corps
+d’armée</em> to go from Constantine to Algiers; and this was done
+without giving me the slightest intimation, without even writing me
+a line to explain away such a violation of territory. If you had
+informed me that he had an intention of visiting my country, I
+would either have accompanied him myself, or sent one of my
+Khalifas to do so. But, so far from that, you have proclaimed that
+all the country between Algiers and Constantine is no longer under
+my orders.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_184">[184]</span> The
+rupture comes from you. Nevertheless, that you may not accuse me of
+treachery, I give you warning that I am about to recommence the
+war. Prepare yourself, then; warn all your travellers, your
+garrisons, your stations; in a word, take all the precautions you
+deem necessary.”</p>
+
+<p>To his Khalifa Ben Salem, who had written for instructions how
+he was to act, he addressed words of consolation and encouragement
+in the following terms:—</p>
+
+<p>“The rupture comes from the Christians! Your enemy is before
+you. Gather up your banners, and prepare for battle. On all sides
+the signal for the holy war is given. You are the man of these
+parts. I place you there to bar their entrance.</p>
+
+<p>“Beware of being disconcerted. Tighten your waist-band, and be
+ready for everything. Rise to the height of events. Above all,
+learn patience. Let human vicissitudes find you impassible. They
+are trials—God sends them. Such trials are blended with the destiny
+of every good Mussulman who vows to die for his faith. Victory,
+please God, shall crown your perseverance. Salutation from Abdel
+Kader ibn Mehi-ed-deen.”</p>
+
+<p>In similar words of sterling import, his other Khalifas were
+summoned to instant action.</p>
+
+<p>“Treason has burst upon us from the infidel,” wrote Abdel Kader.
+“The proofs of his perfidy are glaring. He has traversed my
+territory without my leave. Gather up your burnous, tighten your
+waist-bands for battle—it is at hand. The public treasury is not
+rich; you yourselves have not sufficient money to hand to make war.
+Levy, therefore, as soon as you get the orders, an extraordinary
+impost. Be quick in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_185">[185]</span>
+action, and hasten to join me at Medea, where I am awaiting
+you.”</p>
+
+<p>Valée was loth to believe that all hopes of accommodation were
+irrecoverably gone, and still more loth to enter into a struggle
+for which he was wholly unprepared. The French colonists in the
+plain of Algiers were utterly defenceless. No precautions whatever
+had been taken for their safety and protection; as if Abdel Kader’s
+terrible daring, promptness, and activity were things hitherto
+unfelt and unknown. Even whilst the storm was hourly gathering on
+the mountains before his eyes, Valée contented himself with
+reporting home, and sending the Jew Durand on a mission to Medea,
+with a letter to Abdel Kader. This missive concluded with these
+words:—</p>
+
+<p>“Have a little patience; I expect orders from Paris; the affair
+will yet be satisfactorily arranged.”</p>
+
+<p>On the very day that Durand arrived at Medea, Nov. 14th, 1839,
+the Khalifas, assembled together according to orders, were holding
+a grand military council, presided over by the Sultan himself.
+Durand was introduced, and the Marshal’s letter was read aloud. An
+agitated discussion ensued, ending in an unanimous cry for war.</p>
+
+<p>“You are wrong,” said Durand. “France is a powerful country. You
+have had experience of her armies. You know how great is her
+strength, and how vast are her resources. You will be
+defeated.”</p>
+
+<p>“Then how long,” exclaimed Abdel Kader, “are we still to endure
+the insults of the Christians? They have given us proofs upon
+proofs of their bad faith.”</p>
+
+<p>“I assure you,” said Durand, “you do wrong to get
+angry<span class="pagenum" id="Page_186">[186]</span> about a
+trifle. The French have no wish to deceive you, or to quarrel with
+you; and if the King’s son has passed through your country, it was
+only on a journey of pleasure.”</p>
+
+<p>The council adjourned till the following day. Abdel Kader and
+Durand remained together alone.</p>
+
+<p>The latter now endeavoured to convince his sovereign of the
+risks and dangers he would incur by involving himself in another
+war. He expatiated on the rawness of the troops which Abdel Kader
+had at his command, his feeble resources, and the internal
+agitations which, more or less, at all times fettered his actions,
+as opposed to the military strength and discipline, and the unity
+and concentration of purpose, which enabled the French to triumph
+over every obstacle.</p>
+
+<p>“All that I know,” said Abdel Kader. “But my Khalifas loudly
+call for war. My people already look upon me as an infidel because
+I have not yet commenced it. I do not desire war. It is the French
+who are urging me into it.”</p>
+
+<p>The council met again; and again there was but one voice, and
+that was for war—the holy war.</p>
+
+<p>“Be it so,” said Abdel Kader, “since such is your desire. But I
+accede to your wishes on one condition alone. You are going to be
+exposed to fatigues, to hardships, to trials and reverses. You may
+despond, grow weary of the contest, repent. Swear to me, then, on
+the sacred book of God, that so long as I wave the standard of the
+Djehad, you will never desert me.”</p>
+
+<p>The chiefs and Khalifas all swore.</p>
+
+<p>On the 18th November, 1839, Abdel formally declared war against
+the French, in the following letter to Marshal Valée:—</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15"><span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_187">[187]</span>“<span class="sc">Il Hadj Abdel Kader,
+Prince of the Faithful, to Marshal Valée</span>.</p>
+
+<p>“Peace and happiness on those who follow the path of truth.</p>
+
+<p>“Your first and your last letters have reached us. We have read
+and understood them. I have already informed you that all the
+Arabs, from Ouelassa as far as Kef, are unanimous for the holy war.
+I have done all in my power to appease them, but in vain. There is
+not a voice for peace. All are preparing for war. I must conform to
+the general opinion, in obedience to our sacred law. I am acting
+loyally by you in thus informing you of what is passing. Send me
+back my consul who is in Oran, that he may return to his family. Be
+prepared. All the Mussulmans declare the holy war. Whatever may
+happen, you cannot accuse me of treachery. My heart is pure, and
+never will you find me acting contrary to justice.</p>
+
+<p>“Written this Monday evening, at Medea, 11 Ramadan, 1255 (18th
+Nov., 1839).</p>
+
+<p>“P.S.—When I wrote to the king, he replied that you had the
+direction of all affairs, both for peace and war. I choose war, as
+well as all the Mussulmans. Consider yourself hereby warned, and
+answer as you think proper. It is for you to speak, and no
+other.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">The lightning had darted from the cloud,
+and the storm burst. Such was the admirable concert which pervaded
+the measures of Abdel Kader, that in a few hours, from the heights
+of Beni Sala he saw his Arabs and Kabyles spreading themselves all
+over the plains of Algiers. Fresh relays came pouring down from the
+mountains on every side. The defiles<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_188">[188]</span> and gorges of the Atlas bristled with horse
+and foot. They came rolling onwards like a mighty avalanche
+bursting its barriers and rushing on the plains below.</p>
+
+<p>The Khalifas of Medea and Miliana at the head of their bands
+crossed the Cheliff. Ben Salem and his Kabyles closed in on the
+devoted French stations and colonies from the east; the Hadjouts
+came raging on from the west. The French cantonments, their
+agricultural establishments, their model farms, their scattered
+outposts, were presently overwhelmed and destroyed by the
+resistless and relentless cataclysm. The smoke of blazing villages
+darkened the air. In many, the colonists were massacred. Flying
+from others, the wretched fugitives were pursued to the very gates
+of Algiers.</p>
+
+<p>There the consternation surged and swelled like a tornado. The
+native population menaced insurrection. Rumours, magnified into
+imagined realities, filled every breast with alarm and terror. The
+wildest and most impossible suggestions were received and treated
+as facts. Abdel Kader was said to be advancing at the head of
+30,000 men, preceded by 5,000 pioneers to sap the walls. The houses
+in the suburbs were evacuated. The Marshal’s house, in the quarter
+of Mustapha Pacha, was dismantled. The barracks bearing the same
+name were loopholed. For weeks the terror and dismay went on
+increasing. Officers swept the horizon with their telescopes, and
+were obliged to remain helpless spectators of the scenes of
+devastation which spread before them. Provisions at length fell
+short. Famine aggravated the horrors of distress and fear.</p>
+
+<p>Now, like an eagle soaring from his eyrie, Abdel Kader hovered
+over the field of carnage. Hordes of Kabyles followed<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_189">[189]</span> in his train. These hardy
+warriors, electrified by his appeals, had sworn to carry him
+triumphantly into the heart of Algiers. Relying on their prowess
+and devotion, he had solemnly fixed the day when his horse should
+drink at the waters of Bab-el-Oued. But before leading them against
+the redoubtable ramparts of the town itself, he resolved to essay
+their firmness and resolution against the fort Boudourou.</p>
+
+<p>The Kabyles rushed impetuously to the attack, but the cannon
+balls which mowed down their ranks filled them with unaccustomed
+terror. They vacillated, broke, retreated, and dispersed. Abdel
+Kader felt his prey had eluded his grasp, and, in a paroxysm of
+grief and indignation, exclaimed, as he looked at their broken
+ranks, “These, then, are the proud Kabyles! May their vows be ever
+confounded. May their prayers be never heard. May they live in
+misery and contempt. May they fall to that degree of wretchedness,
+that a miserable Jew may have them at his feet.” And he returned to
+his heights.</p>
+
+<p>Marshal Valée had at last awakened to a sense of his situation.
+Blidah and Bouffarick, at the foot of the Atlas, were hastily
+strengthened and reinforced. A few thousand troops were sent out in
+detachments to protect what remained of the ravaged colonial
+settlements. Urgent dispatches to the Home Government fully stated
+the extent of the recent disasters. The ministry ostentatiously
+declared their adoption of a firm and irrevocable policy. Algeria
+was announced to be “henceforth and for ever a French
+province.”</p>
+
+<p>Reinforcements rapidly arrived at Algiers, and the effective
+force of Marshal Valée was soon raised to 30,000 combatants. It was
+for him so to handle them as to make a permanent<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_190">[190]</span> impression on his restless and
+indefatigable enemy. The system adopted by his predecessors—of
+sudden incursions, followed by as sudden retreats—was abandoned.
+His plan of attack comprised three elements of action. These
+were—to seize and destroy the strongholds which Abdel Kader had
+erected, and with them his arsenals, his magazines, his stores; to
+attack and annihilate his regulars, the mainstay of his power; and
+to occupy permanently the districts inhabited by the principal Arab
+tribes, and by thus showing them how wholly unable their Sultan was
+to defend or protect them, to destroy his influence and power.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was at this moment virtually the sovereign of all
+Algeria with the exception of the towns on the sea-coast. Oran and
+Tittery were his by treaty. The tribes stretching along the south
+of the province of Constantine acknowledged his sway. The Sahara,
+for the most part, obeyed his mandates. Nominally, 70,000 cavalry
+were at his beck; although in reality he could only depend on the
+Arab contingents who were directly controlled by his Khalifas, or
+who were within the sweep of his arm. His fighting force was about
+30,000 cavalry, regular and irregular, and 6,000 regular
+infantry.</p>
+
+<p>Concentrating his force at Blidah, at the foot of the lesser
+Atlas, Valée prepared to carry his first offensive movement into
+effect, by marching on Medea and Miliana. The river Chiffa was
+passed on the 27th April, 1840. The Sultan’s cavalry now appeared
+in considerable numbers. The right wing of the French army extended
+towards a lake, but without reaching it. Abdel Kader threw his
+squadrons into the intermediate space, passed on, and disappeared.
+The plain of Algiers thus became exposed to his blows; and for some
+time it was thought that he was advancing in that direction,
+sweeping<span class="pagenum" id="Page_191">[191]</span> everything
+before him. But the movement had only been a feint. The object of
+Abdel Kader was to force Valée to abandon his march along the
+valley of the Cheliff, and to oblige him to enter the mountains by
+the gorges of the Mouzaia. In this purpose he succeeded.</p>
+
+<p>He had been for months labouring night and day to render these
+formidable passes still more formidable by all the appliances of
+art. It was here, he declared, the French army should find its
+grave. Every available height and eminence had been cut into
+entrenchments. A redoubt with heavy batteries crowned the highest
+peak. In its immediate vicinity were placed his regular
+infantry—the battalions of Medea, Miliana, Mascara, Sebaou, and
+Tekedemt, officered by French deserters. Arabs and Kabyles swarmed
+in all directions, and, crouched in nooks and crevices, stood ready
+to open a dropping fire on the French column, as it wound its way
+with staid and heavy tread along the narrow causeway which hung
+midway on the mountain slopes.</p>
+
+<p>Valée divided his force into three columns. These were led by
+Duvivier, Lamoricière, and D’Hautpoul. To the astonishment of the
+Arabs, the French, leaving the road, came vaulting over the steeps.
+Ravines, woods, and rocks were all equally mastered by them. Slowly
+but surely they were reaching the entrenchments. Suddenly a thick
+mist enveloped the scene. The firing was incessant. It flashed and
+sparkled through the vapoury panoply like the coruscations of a
+phosphorescent sea. The mist rolled away. The combatants had met.
+They fought hand to hand. The Arabs and Kabyles clung with
+desperation to their hiding-places. The French clambered up,
+grasping at shrubs, branches, and sprigs. They appeared able to
+surmount every difficulty before them.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_192">[192]</span>There still
+remained the grand redoubt. Abdel Kader here made a last stand in
+person. His regulars and masses of the Kabyles rallied round him.
+The converging columns of the French came creeping on. The roll of
+drums and the clang of trumpets resounded on every side. The Arabs
+were bewildered by the ubiquity of their foes. Alike attacked in
+front and menaced in rear, they wavered, broke, and fled.
+Lamoricière and his Zouaves, Changarnier and the 2nd Light Infantry
+burst over the entrenchments. The tricolour waved on the highest
+summit of the Atlas.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader retreated on Miliana. On arriving there he found the
+inhabitants in the very act of deserting the town. Placing himself
+in the gateway, he drew his sword, and threatened to cut down the
+first that crossed his path. The panic ceased. The people returned.
+Valée, in the meantime, entered Medea, and found it abandoned and
+half burnt.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had made his last attempt to fight the French on the
+principles of European warfare. It had failed. He never repeated
+the experiment. All his Khalifas and chiefs received orders never
+again to encounter the French in masses, but to confine themselves
+to harassing them, hanging on their flanks and rear, cutting off
+their communications, falling on their baggage and transports, and,
+by feigned retreats, by ambuscades, by sudden and unexpected
+sallies, perplexing, wearying, and bewildering them.</p>
+
+<p>Valée, after leaving a garrison in Medea, under Duvivier,
+prepared to return to the plains. He advanced on Miliana, which
+Abdel Kader at once evacuated. But when the French column took its
+departure and entered the mountain passes, Abdel Kader quickly
+resumed his ascendancy, and by unceasing<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_193">[193]</span> attacks, day and night, compelled it to
+emerge from its perilous position at the sacrifice of whole
+companies annihilated, baggage captured, and wounded abandoned.</p>
+
+<p>It now became necessary for the French to re-victual their
+garrisons in Medea and Miliana. This dangerous task was entrusted
+to Changarnier, who accomplished it with consummate skill and
+daring, whilst his troops were running a gauntlet of fire. Closely
+blockaded by Abdel Kader, these garrisons had led a life of
+privation and suffering difficult to portray. The Arabs and Kabyles
+occupied all the surrounding country. They attacked the French
+foraging parties. The most daring and vigorous sorties, though
+scaring them for the moment, made no permanent impression on their
+vulture-like tenacity. In the month of October, 1840, the garrison
+of Miliana had nearly disappeared under the complicated effects of
+famine, fever, and nostalgia. Out of 1,500 men, 750 were dead, 500
+were in the hospital, and the remainder, poor crawling skeletons,
+could hardly hold their muskets.</p>
+
+<p>Not only in the mountains of Tittery did Abdel Kader hold the
+French in his iron grasp. From the frontiers of Morocco to those of
+Tunis he kept them constantly at bay, counteracting or nullifying
+their operations by his almost superhuman efforts. Ever in the
+saddle, sudden and mysterious in his movements, to-day engaged with
+the French, on the morrow a hundred miles off, rallying and
+inspiriting a flagging tribe of Arabs—he seemed, with his
+constitution of iron, to dispense with rest or repose; as though
+his body had become in a manner etherealised by the fiery soul
+within.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_194">[194]</span><a id=
+"c15"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1841-1842.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">With</span> the year 1841
+commenced the real and decisive struggle. The French, with too
+exclusive reliance on their superiority in discipline and
+resources, calculated that it would terminate in a few months.
+Owing to the unimagined means of resistance evoked and wielded by
+the great chief who defied them, it was destined yet to last, with
+alternate vicissitudes of success, for six years.</p>
+
+<p>On the 22nd of February, 1841, General Bugeaud assumed the
+functions of Governor-General of Algeria. Abdel Kader regarded the
+appointment as a hopeful presage. He would have little difficulty,
+he conceived, in coming to a good understanding with one who had
+already sanctioned and confirmed his claims to regal power. One of
+his most famous predecessors, Ouchba-ibn-Naifé, lieutenant of the
+Caliph Mouaiah, towards the close of the seventh century, after
+having led his victorious Arabs from Alexandria to Morocco, had
+signed a treaty with the Christian Emperor of Constantinople, by
+which he was to be paramount ruler in the interior, while the
+latter was to be content with holding the towns along the
+coast.</p>
+
+<p>Such was the arrangement which Abdel Kader had always fondly
+hoped to see established between himself and the<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_195">[195]</span> French Government. He thought
+it not impossible that the new Governor-General might be induced to
+support and promote such a solution of existing difficulties.
+Bugeaud’s first proclamation quickly undeceived him. The General
+therein declared that his opinions on Algerian affairs were
+completely changed. So far from the French occupation being
+limited, it was to be extended. Every rival power was to be
+crushed.</p>
+
+<p>In truth, the French Government had at length taken the measure
+of their formidable adversary, and had placed 85,000 men at
+Bugeaud’s disposal. With such an imposing force it was anticipated
+that Abdel Kader would soon be beaten and driven out of the
+field.</p>
+
+<p>But the great difficulty was not so much to defeat Abdel Kader
+as to overtake him. The French were stronger; but he was lighter.
+The former moved along beaten routes in long columns, encumbered
+with artillery, ambulances, and baggage. The latter seeing his
+enemy’s point of attack, evaded him for the moment, and then fell
+on him when at fault, entangled in ravines and lost amidst
+precipices. With the Romans, the French might truly say, “Nostros
+asperitas et insolentiæ loci retinebant.”</p>
+
+<p>Bugeaud altered the tactics of his predecessors. Movable columns
+winding in various directions obliged Abdel Kader to disseminate
+his forces, and kept him dubious and uncertain. Heavy baggage and
+heavy ordnance were abandoned. Recesses hitherto unapproachable,
+became accessible. Even the commissariat was dispensed with.</p>
+
+<p>The Arabs had one immense advantage over the French. Wherever
+they went they found provisions. The <em>silos</em><span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_196">[196]</span> scattered over the land
+afforded them a never-failing resource. The French had to carry
+their provisions with them. The difference was serious and
+important. Lamoricière solved the problem. “The Arabs carry no
+provisions,” said that General, “why should we?” And he forthwith
+took the field for a month.</p>
+
+<p>His men carried a few portable hand-mills. On reaching a given
+tract of country, they spread themselves out in skirmishing order,
+sometimes a league in extent. They probed the ground before them,
+as they advanced, with their swords and bayonets. The stones
+concealing the underground granaries were struck. They had been but
+loosely and scantily covered with earth. The <em>silos</em> were
+discovered. Razzias procured sheep. The hand-mills converted corn
+into flour; and thus the French troops found themselves provisioned
+on the very spot where they stood.</p>
+
+<p>Bugeaud’s military operations were based on the double principle
+of conservation and aggression. The main objects of his tactics
+consisted in re-victualling his garrisons, which barely held their
+own amidst the ever-active foes surrounding them on every side; in
+keeping in subjection the Arab tribes who had already surrendered
+to his arms, by giving them an efficient organisation under French
+officers,—in overawing others by inexorable razzias and ruthless
+burning of their crops; and, lastly, in striking, without pause or
+cessation, at Abdel Kader’s power in all its vital parts, by
+occupying his strong positions, destroying his arsenals, rasing his
+fortresses, with the hope of forcing him back, by continual
+pressure, into the wilds of the Sahara.</p>
+
+<p>The campaign of 1841 opened with a second
+re-victualling<span class="pagenum" id="Page_197">[197]</span> of
+Medea and Miliana. The losses of the French, before they effected
+that object, were immense. Abdel Kader disputed every inch of the
+ground. Bugeaud had gone to the province of Oran. From Mostaganem
+he led in person an expedition against Tekedemt. On reaching it,
+May 25th, he found it deserted and partly in flames. Boghar, Saida,
+and Taza, were successively destroyed.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, faithful to his lately-adopted system, had
+determined not to waste his forces in vain attempts to defend his
+fortresses. He abandoned them all. His regular army was more
+usefully and successfully employed in harassing the French on their
+lines of march, or in keeping wavering tribes to their allegiance.
+In the new style of warfare which he was now called upon to
+confront, walled towns were an encumbrance to him—impediments, in
+fact, of which he felt glad to be relieved.</p>
+
+<p>The following characteristic letter, addressed by him about this
+time to General Bugeaud, admirably portrays the buoyancy of spirit
+which animated him at a period when everything seemed to indicate
+his hopeless and irretrievable ruin:—</p>
+
+<p>“What is that craving thus urging France, which calls itself a
+strong and peaceful nation, to come and make war against us? Has
+she not sufficient territory? What harm can all she has taken do
+us, compared with what still remains to us? She will advance, we
+will retire; but she, in her turn, will be obliged to retire; and
+then we shall return.</p>
+
+<p>“And you, the Governor-General, what injury can you do us? In
+battle you lose as many men as we do. Your army is yearly decimated
+by disease. What compensation do you think you can offer your king
+and your country for your<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_198">[198]</span> enormous losses in men and money? A tract
+of ground, and the stones of Mascara!</p>
+
+<p>“You burn, you ravage our crops, you pillage our <em>silos</em>.
+But what signifies to us the loss of the plain of Eghrees, of which
+you have not ravaged even a twentieth part, when we possess so many
+others? The ground you take from us is but as a drop of water taken
+from the sea. We will fight you just when we think proper; and you
+know we are not cowards.</p>
+
+<p>“As to our opposing the forces you drag after you, it would be
+folly. But we will harass them; we will wear them out; we will cut
+them up in detail; the climate will do the rest. Does the wave
+cease to rise and swell when a bird skims it? That is the image of
+your passage in Africa.”</p>
+
+<p>The French had, indeed, already reason to shrink from the task
+before them. What with the losses entailed upon them by marches and
+counter-marches, by incessant fighting, by blasting heats, their
+army had nearly vanished away. Bugeaud, at the close of the year
+1841, had to report, that of 60,000 men, he had only 4,000 fit for
+duty.</p>
+
+<p>The French Government again sought relief in projects of peace.
+If the Emir would raise the blockade of the French garrisons, and
+nominally lay down his arms (it being understood, at the same time,
+that 30,000 stand should be secretly paid for), all his former
+rights would be confirmed, it said, all the territory taken from
+him restored. Abdel Kader laughed at the proposition. “Let the
+French keep the towns,” he replied. “Will the towns give them food?
+So long as I hold the country, and can attack and intercept their
+convoys, my position will still be superior to theirs.”</p>
+
+<p>The very fact, that a proposal for peace had been
+first<span class="pagenum" id="Page_199">[199]</span> broached by
+the French themselves, confirmed Abdel Kader in his resolution to
+try the extremities of war. He had already twice reduced them to
+terms, before his fortresses and arsenals existed. The elements he
+then wielded still remained to him, even after the loss of these
+strongholds, and, in truth, were even more effective than before.
+The Arab tribes had been organised; they moved by a common impulse;
+they expanded and contracted by word of command; when least
+dreaded, they attacked; when pursued, they disappeared. Such was
+henceforth to be the formidable but ever fluctuating principle of
+Abdel Kader’s operations.</p>
+
+<p>To break the links of this well-compacted chain, and destroy the
+influence which held it together, by establishing permanent centres
+of action in the very heart of the Arab confederation, and by
+rapidly consecutive expeditions radiating from these centres, to
+give his troops the ubiquity of the Arabs, became Bugeaud’s main
+object.</p>
+
+<p>It was determined that the province of Oran, as the chief seat
+of Abdel Kader’s power, should henceforward be regarded as the
+principal scene of operations. Lamoricière occupied Mascara; Bedeau
+held Tlemsen; Changarnier watched the western frontier of the plain
+of Algiers; D’Aumale menaced Tittery. All these were men of
+promise, able, bold, enterprising, successful; but destined, at a
+later period, to experience the fickleness of fortune.</p>
+
+<p>Three columns moving from Oran and Mostaganem were despatched to
+act upon the tribes occupying the vast extent of territory between
+the sea and the Atlas, as well as those extending towards the
+Sahara. The first, headed by Bugeaud in person, advanced along the
+valley of the Cheliff, and then<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_200">[200]</span> made its junction with the second column
+under Changarnier, which had started from Blidah. The third column,
+commanded by Lamoricière, aimed at pushing Abdel Kader back to the
+south, with the view of isolating him from the tribes attacked by
+Bugeaud and Changarnier.</p>
+
+<p>Now commenced those wonderful episodes, thrilling in their
+effect, sublime in their grandeur, as marvels of daring and genius,
+by which Abdel Kader stamped this glorious struggle in which he was
+engaged with the impress of his own extraordinary
+individuality.</p>
+
+<p>Lamoricière, zealously acting up to the instructions given him,
+to pursue and overtake the Sultan, was always fancying himself on
+the traces of his object. Suddenly he heard that Abdel Kader was
+before Mascara. When he had contrived to arrive by forced marches
+at that place, he was told that Abdel Kader had passed by the rear
+of his column, and was making a razzia on the Borgia tribes.</p>
+
+<p>Again came the pursuit, and again Abdel Kader, by a bold and
+rapid manœuvre, leaving his bewildered foes behind him, dashed
+across the Cheliff, placed himself between Bugeaud and the sea,
+recovered his ascendancy over the tribes who had deserted him in
+that direction, made another sweeping razzia to the south of
+Miliana, and then, rushing back to the Sahara, showed himself there
+in full force, just as the French had returned, in despair of
+finding him, to their cantonments.</p>
+
+<p>By ever-recurring evolutions of this nature, slipping between
+the enemy’s columns, flitting in their front, hovering on their
+flank, falling on their rear, never at fault, never discouraged,
+sometimes in the mountains, sometimes in the plains, disconcerting
+and rendering abortive the most scientific<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_201">[201]</span> military combinations, Abdel Kader amply
+compensated for the disparity of his means, and counterbalanced the
+manifold disadvantages under which he laboured.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving to his Khalifas in Oran the duty of carrying on the
+desultory kind of warfare which he had so rigidly prescribed, Abdel
+Kader now repaired to the Traara Mountains on the frontiers of
+Morocco. The military skill and diplomatic aptitude of Bedeau had
+imposed obedience on many of the frontier tribes. Abdel Kader saw
+his communications with Morocco menaced, and it was from Morocco
+that he drew, for the most part, his arms, his clothing, his
+ammunition, not, as has been erroneously stated, by splendid and
+gratuitous grants from Sultan Abderahman, but by the ordinary
+course of commercial transactions.</p>
+
+<p>The Kabyles of Nedrouma, once his most devoted partisans, had,
+amongst others, submitted to the French general. The sight of Abdel
+Kader amongst them at once rekindled all their former loyalty and
+enthusiasm. They prayed for forgiveness; they asked to be allowed
+to wipe out their shame on the field of glory. The Beni Snassen,
+and other frontier tribes, followed their example, and rallied
+again around his standard. These, in addition to his own regulars,
+gave him about 3,000 cavalry and 5,000 infantry,—a force sufficient
+to confront the enemy.</p>
+
+<p>During the months of March and April, 1842, the hills and
+valleys of the Traara and Nedrouma Mountains, the banks of the
+Tafna and the Sickak, became the scenes of constant encounters
+between him and General Bedeau. The fate of the campaign still hung
+doubtfully in the balance, when Abdel Kader was summoned to the
+environs of Mascara.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_202">[202]</span> Despite the precautions of his
+brother-in-law, Mustapha-ibn-Tamy, of Il Berkani, and of Sidi
+Embarak, his most illustrious chiefs, Lamoricière was gaining
+ground. Several tribes had gone over; a large portion even of the
+Hashems, his own tribe, had been carried away by the contagious
+example. Lamoricière, imagining Abdel Kader to be sufficiently
+occupied by Bedeau, had extended his excursions towards the Sahara.
+Abdel Kader seized the opportune occasion to re-assert and enforce
+his power amongst the tribes who had deserted him around Mascara.
+But, with due discrimination, he drew a line between wilful treason
+and unavoidable secession. Wherever there were proofs of collusion
+with the French, of treasonable correspondence, of active
+participation, his punishments were severe and unsparing. Terrible,
+indeed, were, at times, the examples he made of tribes who, by
+their premeditated alliance with the infidel, had justly drawn down
+upon themselves the fearful punishment awarded by the Koran upon
+traitors to their religion and their God.</p>
+
+<p>Lamoricière hurried back in all haste on hearing of the Sultan’s
+re-appearance on his own field of operations. But he had to
+re-conquer all the territory he had lately gained. To his surprise,
+tribes, which had but recently joined him, now stood coalesced
+against him. Fighting his way gallantly through all obstacles, he
+eagerly sought to measure his sword with the moving genius of this
+unexpected revival. He heard that Abdel Kader was in force at
+Tekedemt, and on Tekedemt he forthwith marched.</p>
+
+<p>He arrived there, indeed, but just in time to learn that Abdel
+Kader had fallen on Changarnier in the direction of Miliana. That
+general, counting on the absence of his redoubtable
+foe,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_203">[203]</span> was there
+engaged in the comparatively easy task of subduing some refractory
+tribes. One day he found himself enveloped with an overwhelming
+force of Arabs and Kabyles, horse and foot, regulars and
+irregulars, led on by Abdel Kader in person, and rushing furiously
+to the combat.</p>
+
+<p>For two days and nights the battle raged incessantly. The
+combatants engaged in deadly strife, hand to hand and foot to foot
+with pistols, swords, yataghans, or bayonets. Suddenly the combat
+ceased. Abdel Kader drew off his army and disappeared. The French
+had suffered too severely and were too exhausted to follow him up.
+Two days afterwards news reached them to the effect that Abdel
+Kader had dashed into the Metija, was ravaging the plains, and
+carrying terror to the very gates of Algiers.</p>
+
+<p>Bearing away to his right, after performing this exploit, Abdel
+Kader ascended the Atlas, penetrated to the Ouarensis, beyond
+Tittery, and reached the Sahara. Everywhere he occupied himself in
+arousing populations, inspiriting tribes, and organising
+contingents. After sweeping over a space of some three hundred
+leagues, he returned, with recruited forces and increased energy,
+to press upon the garrison of Mascara, under Lamoricière, with all
+the rigours of a winter blockade.</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding all these incredible and in some measure
+successful efforts, which were now, more than ever, necessary to
+sustain him in his arduous and double task of thwarting the designs
+of his formidable enemies from without, and of curbing the
+fast-spreading spirit of defection within, Abdel Kader began to
+feel that he was struggling with adverse fortune. All his fixed
+establishments had been invaded and<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_204">[204]</span> destroyed. The ketna, his ancestral abode,
+had been ravaged and laid waste. The members of his own family were
+outcasts. More than all, the families of his most faithful
+adherents were constantly exposed, despite all his vigilance, to
+rude visits from detested strangers, clothed in uncouth garb, the
+soldiers of the infidel, who violated the sanctity of the harem
+with heartless mockery and vindictive malice.</p>
+
+<p>Feelings of religion and humanity urgently compelled him to take
+measures to meet the exigencies of such a painful and trying
+emergency. He determined to remove altogether from the scene of war
+those whom it was impossible for him to desert, and whom in the
+hour of need he might be unable to rescue. He formed his
+<em>Smala</em>.</p>
+
+<p>This new and singular organisation was simply an agglomeration
+of private hearths. To the <em>Smala</em> as to a common asylum and
+place of security, the Arab tribes sent their treasures, their
+herds, their women, their children, their aged and their sick. It
+became an immense moving capital, amounting to more than 20,000
+souls. It followed the Sultan’s movements, advancing to the more
+cultivated districts, or retreating to the Sahara, according to the
+fluctuations of his fortunes.</p>
+
+<p>When in the Sahara, the numerous tents of the <em>Smala</em>
+were lost in the distant horizon. When in the Tell, they filled up
+the valley, and covered the slopes of the mountains. It was
+arranged with military regularity. The <em>deiras</em>, or
+households, with their tents varying in number according to the
+respective strength of each, were distributed into four large
+encampments. Each <em>deira</em> knew its place. Each chief had his
+station marked and his functions appointed, according to his
+importance or the confidence he inspired.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_205">[205]</span>Abdel Kader
+spared no pains to encourage and popularise a system of emigration,
+which daily increased from the strongest of human impulses, and
+thus gradually and imperceptibly bound the Arab tribes to him by
+the strongest of human ties. Four tribes were set apart to watch,
+protect, and guide the <em>Smala</em> in its wanderings. A body of
+regulars kept guard over it. Jews were expressly commissioned to
+advance sums of money to the needy.</p>
+
+<p>Ultimately, indeed, the <em>Smala</em> became a powerful check
+on the disaffection of the tribes. For when the French, alluring
+them with fair promises, said to them, “Come over to us, we will
+protect you,” an invisible voice whispered in their ears, “I have
+your women, your children, your flocks, beware!” Thus, an
+establishment, which was at first constituted by Abdel Kader as a
+measure of domestic arrangement, became in his hands a vast and
+widely extended political engine.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_206">[206]</span><a id=
+"c16"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1841-1842.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">It</span> was the month of March,
+1841; the night was cold, dark, and tempestuous. More than a
+thousand fires glimmered in house, and tent, and bivouac. Men were
+anxiously discussing the past stages and future prospects of the
+war. Generals were conning their maps; soldiers were drinking the
+old accustomed toasts to love and glory; priests were reading their
+breviaries; the Bishop of Algiers had just finished midnight mass.
+Suddenly a young woman, holding a little girl by the hand, rushed
+into his apartment, threw herself at his feet, and in accents of
+wild despair exclaimed:—“My husband; the father of my child!” Her
+husband had disappeared in the frightful hurricane of war which had
+devastated the plain of Algiers. But he was safe; he was with Abdel
+Kader.</p>
+
+<p>The good bishop had long deplored, though unavailingly, the
+melancholy fate of French prisoners in the hands of the Arabs. He
+had often suggested measures for their relief, but French national
+pride and dignity had hitherto opposed an impassable barrier to his
+benevolent designs. Now, however, touched and excited by the scene
+before him, he determined to break the restraints imposed on him,
+and, confident of finding a response in the breast of the
+magnanimous<span class="pagenum" id="Page_207">[207]</span> chief
+to whom he was about to appeal, he wrote to Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>“You do not know me,” he said, “but my profession is, to serve
+God, and in Him to love all men, his children and my brethren. If I
+was able to mount on horseback I should dread neither the blackness
+of the night nor the roaring of the tempest. I would present myself
+at the door of your tent, and would cry out in a voice which, if my
+idea of you deceives me not, you would be unable to resist,
+‘Restore to me my unfortunate brother, fallen into your warlike
+hands.’ But I cannot come myself.</p>
+
+<p>“Let me then send you one of my followers, and let the letter
+which he will present to you, and which I have written in haste,
+supply the place of that verbal appeal which God would have
+blessed, for it would have proceeded from the bottom of my
+heart.</p>
+
+<p>“I have neither gold nor silver to offer you. Your only
+recompense will be the sincere prayers and the deep-felt gratitude
+of the family on whose behalf I write. ‘Blessed are the merciful,
+for they shall obtain mercy.’”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader at once replied in the following terms:—“I have
+received your letter and comprehended it. It has not surprised me,
+after all I had heard of your sacred character. Nevertheless,
+permit me to observe that in the double title you assume of servant
+of God and friend of men, your brethren, you ought to have demanded
+from me not merely the liberty of one, but of all the Christians
+who have been made prisoners of war since the resumption of
+hostilities.</p>
+
+<p>“Nay more. Would you not be, in a twofold manner, worthy of the
+mission of which you speak, if, not content with<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_208">[208]</span> procuring such a boon for two
+or three hundred Christians, you were to endeavour to extend it to
+an equal number of Mussulmans who languish in your prisons?”</p>
+
+<p>The celebrated exchange of prisoners at Sidi Khalifa, May 21st,
+1841, was the glorious fruits of this touching fusion of two noble
+hearts.</p>
+
+<p>The bishop had reserved some Arab orphans whose parents had died
+in French captivity. He expected a protest. To his surprise and
+astonishment he received a present and a recommendation. “I send
+you a flock of goats,” wrote the catholic-minded Sultan of the
+Arabs, “with their young who are still sucking. With these you will
+be able for some time longer to nourish the little children you
+have adopted, and who have lost their mothers. Pray excuse this
+gift, for it is very trifling.”</p>
+
+<p>The generous care, the tender sympathy exhibited by Abdel Kader
+towards his prisoners is almost unparalleled in the annals of
+warfare. Christian generals might sit at his feet in this respect
+and blush for their degeneracy. No doubt the prisoners taken by the
+Arabs were often exposed to the insults of their barbarous captors,
+especially when falling amongst tribes exasperated by the
+sufferings inflicted on them by the French. Effectually, however,
+though slowly, the spirit inculcated by the Sultan at length gained
+ground. Barbarism recoiled before it, mercy prevailed, humanity
+triumphed.</p>
+
+<p>Wherever Abdel Kader was present, indeed, the French in his
+power were treated more like guests than prisoners. He frequently
+sent them, in secret, sums of money, varying from five to twenty
+dollars, out of his privy purse. They were sure to be well clothed
+and well fed. Abdel Kader even<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_209">[209]</span> went so far as to desire that their
+spiritual wants should receive due attention.</p>
+
+<p>It is thus the uncompromising champion of Islamism writes on the
+subject, in words that deserve to be printed in letters of gold, to
+the Bishop of Algiers:—“Send a priest to my camp. He shall want for
+nothing. I will take care he shall be honoured and respected as
+becomes his double character of a man of God, and your
+representative.</p>
+
+<p>“He shall pray with the prisoners daily, he shall console them,
+and he shall correspond with their families. He may thus be the
+means of procuring them money, clothes, books, in a word,
+everything they may desire or want, to soften the rigours of their
+captivity. Only, on his arriving here, he must solemnly promise,
+once for all, never to allude in his letters to my encampments or
+military movements.”</p>
+
+<p>The very sight of a prisoner seemed to touch a chord within the
+breast of Abdel Kader, which called forth all the more lofty
+sentiments and magnanimous feelings ennobling to human nature. His
+heart, so stern and dauntless when confronted with danger, expanded
+and softened with all a woman’s tenderness before the captive’s
+dark and dreary fate, like flowers which only exhale their
+fragrance to the shades of night.</p>
+
+<p>“Sultan,” said two French prisoners who were brought before him,
+“we wish to become Mussulmans; we are ready to make profession of
+your religion.”</p>
+
+<p>“If you do so in good faith,” replied Abdel Kader, “well and
+good. But if you are needlessly alarmed at your present situation,
+you will do wrong. Though you are, and remain Christians, not a
+hair of your heads shall be touched. Consider<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_210">[210]</span> rather what will happen to you should
+you return to your countrymen after having renounced your faith.
+Would you not be treated as the most criminal of deserters? How can
+you hope to benefit by the occasion should an exchange of prisoners
+take place?”</p>
+
+<p>A French prisoner, kindling with indignation at the bare mention
+of apostacy, exclaimed, in presence of Abdel Kader, “As for me, I
+will never renounce my religion. You may cut off my head, but make
+me a renegade, never!”</p>
+
+<p>“Be perfectly easy, your life is sacred with me,” was the reply
+of Abdel Kader. “I like to hear such language. You are a brave and
+loyal man, and merit my esteem. I honour courage in religion more
+than courage in war.”</p>
+
+<p>A celebrated Moroccan chief asked to see the French prisoners.
+Having remarked a trumpeter, he asked him to play a tune. The
+trumpeter sounded the charge. “What does that mean?” said the
+chief. “Tell the Sultan,” said the trumpeter, “that when he hears
+that sound, the sooner he gives his horse the reins and gallops
+off, the better.” The chief, feeling himself insulted, demanded
+that the offender should have the bastinado. “No, no,” said Abdel
+Kader, “we must be generous and forbearing to our prisoners.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader’s repugnance to see female prisoners was extreme.
+The thought that women should become victims of war was a source of
+constant anxiety to him. One day, the cavalry of one of his
+Khalifas brought him in four young women, as a brilliant capture.
+He turned away in disgust. “Lions,” he said, sarcastically, “attack
+strong animals; jackals fall upon the weak.”</p>
+
+<p>Once he and his followers were reduced to the
+greatest<span class="pagenum" id="Page_211">[211]</span> straits.
+Subsistence could hardly be procured. In this extremity, he
+bethought him of ninety-four French prisoners lying in his camp in
+the greatest misery. He released them all without ransom or
+exchange. He even had them escorted to the advanced posts, where
+they were delivered over to their comrades, astounded by such an
+act of generosity.</p>
+
+<p>Numberless acts of magnanimity, known only to the French
+superior officers whom he encountered, or with whom he
+corresponded, testified to the elevation of his soul. One general
+officer has since said, “We were obliged to conceal these things as
+much as we could from our soldiers; for if they suspected them, we
+should never have got them to fight with the due ardour against
+Abdel Kader.”</p>
+
+<p>Some French artisans had, by permission of the Governor-General,
+entered into a contract with Abdel Kader to execute certain works
+in four of the towns he was rebuilding. They were to receive 3,000
+francs each. The war broke out before their contract was completed;
+nearly half of their work had yet to be completed. They petitioned
+for leave to return.</p>
+
+<p>Not only did Abdel Kader at once consent, but he gave them a
+safe-conduct and an escort through tribes who were all in arms, and
+crying out for French blood. At the frontier the entire sum which
+had been agreed upon was counted down to the French artisans, who
+were thus paid by the Sultan for works which they had actually not
+finished.</p>
+
+<p>Converted, animated, inspired by such an example, the Sultan’s
+chiefs and delegates, throughout the provinces and districts under
+their control, for the most part engaged willingly and cordially in
+acts of sympathy, kindness, and hospitality to their fallen foes.
+Such were Ibn Salem and<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_212">[212]</span> Ben Hamedi; such a one, also, was Sidi
+Embarak, that brilliant reflex of his master’s mind, whose
+prisoners, when released, subscribed to present him with pistols of
+honour.</p>
+
+<p>But, in all those tender offices which soothe and assuage the
+unutterable sufferings of the estranged and forlorn, none exceeded
+the Sultan’s mother, the mild, the gentle Leila Zohra. She assumed,
+as by inherent right, the guardianship of all the female prisoners.
+The care and solicitude she lavished on them was as extraordinary
+as it was exemplary. They occupied a tent close to hers. Two of her
+negro slaves guarded the entrances. No one was allowed to approach
+them without an order. Every morning they received from her own
+hands presents of oil, butter, meat, and other articles, for their
+repast. Did sickness overtake any of them, she would bring them,
+with maternal anxiety, tea, sugar, coffee—anything she thought
+would contribute to their ease and comfort.</p>
+
+<p>One day, a batch of French prisoners was brought in and placed
+temporarily near her tent. She came out to see them. “What have you
+come to do in our country?” she observed, looking on them with
+compassion; “it was calm and prosperous, and you have covered it
+with the desolation of war. No doubt, it is the will of God which
+is being accomplished; but that God is all-powerful, His designs
+are impenetrable. Perhaps, one of these days, in the hour of
+reconciliation, we may restore you to your homes and families.”
+Such words of hope, which thrilled through the breasts, and cheered
+the wounded spirits of the unhappy prisoners, and seemed to them
+like distant gleams of future freedom already beaming on their
+captivity, revealed, in one glorious trait, the mother of Abdel
+Kader.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_213">[213]</span>By his humanity,
+Abdel Kader had done much more than only inaugurate a new era in
+the treatment of prisoners amongst the Arabs; it was due to him
+that soldiers had ever been spared on the field to be taken
+prisoners at all. The very word “prisoner” had been hitherto
+unknown amongst their savage tribes. To show no quarter, to
+massacre all who came in their way and fell into their hands, to
+count their vanquished enemies by the number of bloody heads
+dangling on their horses’ flanks, and to receive prizes for them,
+had been their custom, until custom had almost grown into an
+instinct.</p>
+
+<p>Who was the first to abolish such atrocious practices? Who
+prohibited, with all the severity which circumstances would allow,
+the custom of adding to the heads of those who had been slain in
+open fight, the heads of prisoners taken alive, wounded or not?
+Who, in place of the sum of money heretofore given for each of
+these sanguinary trophies, gave double and triple the sum for every
+prisoner brought in safe and sound?—Again and again, let
+Christendom and the whole civilised world be told, that it was
+Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>Nor was it without the risk of a general insurrection that Abdel
+Kader insisted and persevered in the new course he had marked out.
+Undeterred, however, by threats, unshaken by menaces, he went
+steadily on till he had achieved the moral revolution dictated to
+him by religion and humanity. One of his soldiers, at the
+commencement of this reform, insolently demanded of him—</p>
+
+<p>“How much will you give for a prisoner?”</p>
+
+<p>“Eight dollars.”</p>
+
+<p>“And how much for a head cut off?”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_214">[214]</span>“Twenty-five
+blows on the soles of the feet.”</p>
+
+<p>One day, Abdel Kader desired that five prisoners, already some
+weeks in custody, should be brought before him. Three were
+immediately summoned by the Khalifa, to whose charge they had been
+given. The latter, dreading the Sultan’s queries, turned to the
+prisoners and said—</p>
+
+<p>“There, take these burnouses, throw them over your shoulders;
+the Sultan calls for you. If he asks you any questions, mind you
+say that you have been well treated, and that you have wanted for
+nothing.”</p>
+
+<p>“Very good; but if we are asked if those burnouses are our
+own?”</p>
+
+<p>“Say that you have had them a long time.”</p>
+
+<p>“Agreed.”</p>
+
+<p>“Woe to you if you make any complaint. Now follow me to the
+Sultan.”</p>
+
+<p>After having given these warnings, the Khalifa proceeded with
+his prisoners to the tent of the Sultan. Abdel Kader was seated in
+one corner, surrounded by his principal chiefs and Marabouts. The
+reception of the prisoners was designedly solemn. The Arabs and
+their Sultan preserved a mysterious silence. The three prisoners
+advanced, preceded by Hadj Mustapha, the Sultan’s
+brother-in-law.</p>
+
+<p>“Which of you is the trumpeter?” said the Sultan.</p>
+
+<p>“I am.”</p>
+
+<p>“Take that letter, it is for you.”</p>
+
+<p>As the prisoner read the letter, his cheeks became flushed;
+tears rushed into his eyes; his limbs trembled with excitement. It
+was a letter from his General, informing him that the Legion of
+Honour had been conferred on him, for<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_215">[215]</span> his bravery in devoting himself for the
+safety of his colonel, in the affair of Sept. 22nd, 1843.</p>
+
+<p>“Step forward,” said the Sultan.</p>
+
+<p>The trumpeter advanced a few paces.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, with his own hands, fixed the Cross of the Legion
+of Honour on his breast.</p>
+
+<p>Then, turning to his brother-in-law, he said:—</p>
+
+<p>“I only see three prisoners. There were five: where are the
+other two?”</p>
+
+<p>“They are dead.”</p>
+
+<p>“Since when?”</p>
+
+<p>“A long time ago.”</p>
+
+<p>“Did they die of sickness?”</p>
+
+<p>“We shot them.”</p>
+
+<p>“Shot them!” exclaimed the Sultan, looking sternly at his
+brother-in-law.</p>
+
+<p>“They tried to escape.”</p>
+
+<p>“Is that a reason for killing them? This is wicked, unjust,
+infamous. If the French were to kill my Arabs who are their
+prisoners, what would you say?”</p>
+
+<p>“Dogs of Christians.”</p>
+
+<p>“Enough; for shame! I will have no more of these doings. Do you
+understand me? This shall and must be the last. Give the prisoners
+thirty francs a-piece, place them in my camp, and mind they are
+well provided for.”</p>
+
+<p>From this moment, Abdel Kader determined to procure a national
+edict as regarded the treatment of prisoners; for notwithstanding
+all his vigilance, isolated instances of barbarity still continued
+to occur. He convoked a grand council of all the Khalifas, the
+Agas, the Kaids, and chiefs of tribes.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_216">[216]</span> Three hundred assembled. Standing up before
+them, he took for the text of his oration, an article in the Koran,
+where Mohammed blames his brother-in-law Ali for having slain five
+hundred infidels after they had surrendered.</p>
+
+<p>Applying this passage to the case of French soldiers taken
+prisoners, Abdel Kader vehemently insisted that they should no more
+be wantonly killed or mutilated. After eloquently showing, to the
+conviction of his audience, the inhumanity, the disgrace, the
+inutility of such actions, he demanded a decree to the effect, that
+every Frenchman, whether taken in action or otherwise, should be
+looked upon as a prisoner, and be treated with every consideration,
+until an opportunity presented itself for effecting his
+exchange.</p>
+
+<p>The proposition of the Sultan received the approval of the
+majority of the council. The following decree was at once drawn up;
+and hundreds of copies were made, and forthwith distributed
+throughout all the towns, villages, and tents, in the Sultan’s
+dominions:—</p>
+
+<p>“Be it ordained, that every Arab who shall bring in a French
+soldier, or a Christian, safe and sound, shall receive a reward,
+amounting to eight dollars for a male, and ten dollars for a
+female.</p>
+
+<p>“Every Arab who has a Frenchman or a Christian in his
+possession, is held responsible for his good treatment. He is
+hereby commanded, on pain of the severest punishment, to conduct
+his prisoner, without delay, either to the nearest Khalifa, or
+before the Sultan himself. On doing this, he shall receive the
+promised reward.</p>
+
+<p>“In the case of any prisoner complaining of the slightest
+ill-treatment, the Arab, his captor, shall lose all claims for
+reward.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_217">[217]</span>Once—and once
+only—after the publication of this order, it was reported to Abdel
+Kader that one of his regulars had been taken up with a Frenchman’s
+head in his hands. Starting with indignation, he instantly wrote to
+the Khalifa of the district where the case had occurred, commanding
+him to bring the culprit forthwith to head-quarters. He resolved to
+make a severe example. His regular regiments, both infantry and
+cavalry, and the contingents of irregular cavalry, of the tribes
+nearest by, were all convoked to a grand parade.</p>
+
+<p>On the day, and at the hour fixed, all were under arms. Abdel
+Kader stood surrounded by his civil and military chiefs. The
+culprit was led forth; the head was placed before the Sultan.</p>
+
+<p>“Prisoner,” said Abdel Kader, “was the man to whom this head
+belonged dead or alive, before you cut it off?”</p>
+
+<p>“Dead.”</p>
+
+<p>“Then you shall receive two hundred and fifty blows, for having
+disobeyed my orders. This punishment shall teach you that, as a
+dead man can be no man’s enemy, it is cowardly and brutal to
+mutilate him.”</p>
+
+<p>The soldier was laid down, and received his award. He rose, and
+thinking his punishment over, was moving off.</p>
+
+<p>“Stay a little,” said the Sultan, “I have another question to
+ask you. While you were cutting off the man’s head, where was your
+musket?”</p>
+
+<p>“I had laid it on the ground.”</p>
+
+<p>“Two hundred and fifty blows more, then, for having abandoned
+your arms on the field.”</p>
+
+<p>After this second punishment, the unhappy regular could hardly
+stand on his feet. Some men stepped forth to carry him away.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_218">[218]</span>“Not in such a
+hurry,” said the Sultan, again; “I have another question yet to
+ask. After you had cut off the man’s head, how did you manage to
+carry your musket and the head at the same time?”</p>
+
+<p>“I held my musket in one hand, and the head in the other.”</p>
+
+<p>“That is to say, you carried your musket in such a manner that
+you could not have made use of it. Give him two hundred and fifty
+blows more.”</p>
+
+<p>Such unbending severity had its due effect. The French had no
+longer occasion to dread falling alive into the hands of the Arabs.
+When taken they were regularly and carefully conducted to the
+station of the nearest Khalifa. On arriving there, they were
+subjected to a strict but mild examination, and were simply asked
+to what corps they had belonged, when and how they had been taken,
+and whether they had been well treated by their captors.</p>
+
+<p>After their declarations had been duly taken down and
+registered, they were forwarded to certain <em>depôts</em>
+appointed for the reception of prisoners. The men were generally
+sent to Taza, or Tekedemt. The women, invariably to the Smala, to
+be cared for and superintended by the Sultan’s mother.</p>
+
+<p>Not satisfied with ameliorating the condition of his own
+prisoners of war, Abdel Kader was extremely desirous of pushing the
+principle of humanity still further, by establishing a regular
+exchange of prisoners on both sides. Often and earnestly did he
+plead with the French generals, that the precedent so auspiciously
+established and carried into effect at Sidi Khalifa, might be
+extended and confirmed as a system. But he pleaded in vain.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_219">[219]</span><a id=
+"c17"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1843.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">At</span> this period of his
+fortunes, Abdel Kader was almost as much engaged in subduing his
+own subjects and keeping them to their allegiance, as in fighting
+with the French. The latter, by promises, by bribes, by threats, by
+measures of the utmost severity, tried to gain over the Arab tribes
+as allies and auxiliaries. A razzia on the part of the French was
+sure to be followed by a razzia on the part of the Sultan. Both
+parties endeavoured to establish their power by terror. But, whilst
+the one was actuated by the thirst for conquest, the other was
+influenced by the desire of rescuing his country from its evils,
+and rendering it eventually great and powerful.</p>
+
+<p>The French had learned to appreciate the importance of the
+Smala. They saw in it the real nucleus of Abdel Kader’s influence.
+They ascertained that it was the depository of immense wealth. It
+now became the chief object of their research. From generals of
+<em>corps d’armée</em> to colonels of detachments, all displayed an
+eager and zealous activity to snatch the splendid prize.</p>
+
+<p>In the spring of 1843, Lamoricière opened the campaign by
+occupying Tekedemt. Abdel Kader, with 1,500 cavalry, watched his
+further movements from the neighbouring woods of Serisso. He had
+learned by spies that the general’s object was the Smala. For
+twenty days he remained in ambush.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_220">[220]</span> All communication with him was strictly
+prohibited, lest his presence should be discovered. He and his men
+lived on acorns. The horses were fed with leaves. To add to the
+intenseness of his abnegation, this trial came on them during the
+period of the fast of Ramadan.</p>
+
+<p>One day the chiefs of Abdel Kader came to him radiant with joy.
+They had found a stray sheep. The Sultan at least might have a
+repast. “Take it to my starving soldiers,” said Abdel Kader, and he
+turned to his meal of acorns. Unconsciously, he was following the
+example of David, when he looked on the waters from the well of
+Bethlehem, and said, “Is not this the blood of the men who went in
+jeopardy of their lives? and he would not drink it;” of Alexander,
+when he refused the helmet of water—“If I alone drink, my men will
+be dispirited;” of Sidney, who on the field of Zutphen resigned the
+cooling draught to his wounded comrade, with the touching remark,
+“This man’s necessity is greater than mine.”</p>
+
+<p>Twice Lamoricière led forth his troops in search of the Smala,
+and twice Abdel Kader drove him back. But treason was at work.
+Sheik Omar ibn Ferrath, of the Beni Aiad, offered to point out the
+exact spot on which the Smala was encamped. Immediately the plan
+was laid. From Abdel Kader no obstruction was feared. He was
+occupied with Lamoricière. The column stationed at Medea was
+selected for the enterprise. The execution was entrusted to the Duc
+D’Aumale.</p>
+
+<p>On the 10th of May, 1843, D’Aumale left Boghar with 1,300
+infantry, 600 cavalry, and 2 field pieces. Sheik Omar had announced
+the Smala to be at Gojilat. The French<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_221">[221]</span> reached that place on the 14th. But the
+Smala was gone. Its new locality was unknown. The column wandered
+about weary and uncertain. A fierce simoon sweeping over it reduced
+the men to utter exhaustion. They halted and piled arms. D’Aumale
+rode on for some miles in front, merely accompanied by his
+cavalry.</p>
+
+<p>At break of day on the 16th, the traitor Sheik rode up to say
+that the Smala was at the spring of Taguin. D’Aumale at once gave
+orders to march on the point indicated. The Sheik expostulated. To
+attack the Smala with 600 cavalry appeared to him to be madness. He
+entreated the Duke either to return to his column or to wait till
+it came up. “No prince of my race ever receded,” was the gallant
+reply; and the trumpets sounded the advance.</p>
+
+<p>The Smala was reached. The French cavalry, spreading out like a
+fan, went dashing through that sea of tents, and quickly scattered
+a bewildered and panic-striken population of old men, women, and
+children. The small guard of 500 regulars fired a volley and fled.
+A handful of the Hashems bravely attempted to stem the torrent, but
+were swept away. In less than an hour the victory was complete.</p>
+
+<p>The scenes of confusion and despair which were crowded into that
+brief interval—the frantic efforts at escape, the terror of the
+flying, the dismay of the abandoned—the careering and plunging of a
+promiscuous mass of camels, dromedaries, horses, mules, oxen,
+sheep, tossing about like the waves of a raging sea, have been
+immortalised by the genius of Horace Vernet. The painter’s art
+alone could do adequate justice to that unparalleled and almost
+inconceivable scene of tumult.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_222">[222]</span>The bloodshed
+had been comparatively trifling. The trophies consisted chiefly of
+the families of Abdel Kader’s most influential chiefs. His own
+family had escaped. The booty was immense. It comprised thousands
+of animals of all kinds, Abdel Kader’s library, consisting of the
+rarest Arabian manuscripts, richly bound, and valued at £5,000; his
+military chest, containing millions of francs; the chests of his
+Khalifas and Kaids, all deposited in the Smala for security, and
+filled with gold and silver coins, and costly jewellery.</p>
+
+<p>The French soldiers baled out dollars and doubloons in their
+shakos; they filled their haversacks with pearls and diamonds. In
+the general disorder, the voice of command was unheeded; and each
+seized the prize, which a more or less happy chance threw into his
+hands.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader received the news of the taking of the Smala, in the
+woods of Serisso. The blow for a moment overwhelmed him. He
+measured at once the extent of his misfortune, and saw in that
+severe decree of fate the presage of a dark and calamitous future.
+Dismissing the messengers who brought him the intelligence, he
+retired from some hours to his tent, engaged in meditation and
+prayer.</p>
+
+<p>His chiefs, his officers and men, had, in the meantime,
+assembled in groups outside. Some were silent and downcast, others
+gave way to the wildest imprecations. Many had lost their all;
+their wives and their children had been taken captive—they might be
+separated for years, perhaps for ever; disordered imaginations
+filled up this dark shadow of the unknown with exaggerated horrors;
+the distracted sufferers saw no prospect of relief. One only
+feeling gave them<span class="pagenum" id="Page_223">[223]</span> a
+shadow of consolation—their Sultan was still amongst them.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader came forth. They crowded to his presence. They
+watched his looks. Some essayed to address him, but the words
+faltered on their lips; none ventured to fathom the secret workings
+of that profound prostration. But the cloud had passed over; a
+smile played on his countenance. “Praise be to God,” he said; “all
+those objects which I so highly prized, which were so dear to my
+heart, and occupied my mind so much, only impeded my movements, and
+turned me aside from the right way. For the future, I shall be free
+to fight the infidels.”</p>
+
+<p>Then, speaking of those who had fallen, he added, “Why should we
+mourn and complain? Are not all those whom we loved and have lost,
+now blessed in Paradise?” The next day he wrote to his
+Khalifas:—“The French have made a razzia on my Smala; but let us
+not be discouraged, we shall henceforth be lighter and better
+disposed for war.”</p>
+
+<p>Thus, rising superior to events, Abdel Kader stilled the
+troubled waters which rose around him; from the deepest of his
+misfortunes he gathered hope and encouragement for the future.</p>
+
+<p>When alluding afterwards to this disastrous period, Abdel Kader
+thus expressed himself:—“When my Smala was attacked by the Duc
+D’Aumale, its population could not have comprised less than 60,000
+souls. He did not carry off a tenth part; it extended from Taguin
+as far as Djebel Amour. When an Arab lost sight of his family in
+it, he was sometimes two days in finding it. Wherever it was
+encamped, the wells and rivulets were dried up. I had established a
+police force<span class="pagenum" id="Page_224">[224]</span>
+expressly to prevent the waters from being muddled or wasted by the
+flocks. In spite of all my precautions, many perished from
+thirst.</p>
+
+<p>“My Smala contained armourers, saddlers, tailors—every trade, in
+fact, necessary to its organisation. An immense fair was held in
+it, which was much frequented by the Arabs of the Tell. As to our
+grain, corn, and barley, it was either brought to us, or we sent to
+procure it from the tribes of the north.</p>
+
+<p>“The order of the encampment was perfectly regulated. When I had
+pitched my tent, every one knew the place he was to occupy. I had
+around me three or four hundred of my regular infantry, and the
+irregular cavalry of the Hashems of Eghrees, who were especially
+devoted to me. It was no easy task to reach me. Not that I took
+these measures for my own personal security; I felt I was necessary
+to accomplish the work of God, and trusted in Him to strengthen and
+protect the arm that carried his standard.</p>
+
+<p>“At the time of the surprise, I was near Tekedemt, observing the
+division of Oran, which was in the neighbourhood, and from which I
+thought I had most to dread. I had with me 1,500 or 1,600 cavalry.
+Ben Kharoub was with the Flittas, Ben Allal in the Ouarensis,
+Mustapha-ibn-Taamy amongst the Beni Ouragh. But I never thought
+there was occasion for me to fear so terrible a mischance in the
+direction of Medea; and none of my Khalifas were watching the
+movements of the king’s son.</p>
+
+<p>“Despite all that, however, we should not have been surprised if
+God had not blinded our people. On seeing the Spahis coming on,
+with their red burnouses, it was thought in<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_225">[225]</span> the Smala that they were my irregulars
+returning. The women even raised the usual cries of welcome and
+rejoicing to their honour. Nor were they undeceived until the first
+shots were fired. Then ensued a scene of inexpressible confusion,
+which baffled all the efforts of those who sought to defend
+themselves.</p>
+
+<p>“If I had been there, we should have fought for our wives and
+children, and the French would have seen a grand day. But God
+decreed it otherwise. I only heard of the misfortune three days
+afterwards; it was too late.”</p>
+
+<p>The smallness of their force prevented the French from taking
+more than 3,000 prisoners; but amongst them were the families of
+several of the Sultan’s Khalifas. The rest of the Smala dispersed
+in all directions. Some fell among Arab tribes, who plundered them.
+Others were overtaken by Lamoricière.</p>
+
+<p>Foremost in the pursuit was Mutapha-ibn-Ismail, who throughout
+the war had made himself conspicuous by the malicious zeal with
+which he had ever aided and directed the movements of the French
+against the distinguished chief whom a base jealousy urged him to
+thwart and oppose. But the traitor now met a merited doom. Crossing
+the district of the Flittas, he was attacked, shot down, and
+decapitated. His head was taken to the Sultan’s head-quarters.
+Abdel Kader gazed upon it for some moments with pardonable
+satisfaction, and then contemptuously ordered it to be thrown to
+the dogs.</p>
+
+<p>To recover his influence and restore the general confidence by
+the re-establishment of his Smala, was now to Abdel Kader a matter
+of vital importance. But all his efforts were vain. The moral
+effects of its defeat and capture were<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_226">[226]</span> irremediable. Every day brought Abdel Kader
+information of the defection of large and influential tribes. Arab
+contingents now swelled the ranks of his enemies, and marched
+openly against him.</p>
+
+<p>Yet deeper misfortunes followed. At the very moment when his
+ablest Khalifas were most needed, a remorseless fate removed them.
+Their career was cut short by captivity, or terminated by a
+glorious death. Deprived of these connecting links, his empire lost
+cohesion. His distant provinces fell an easy prey to the French,
+who everywhere displayed their triumphant standards. But the lion
+heart and iron will still bore up, and defied fortune to do its
+worst.</p>
+
+<p>The province of Oran became the scene of an almost superhuman
+struggle. Followed by a chosen and devoted band of some 5,000
+followers, Abdel Kader made his presence felt at all points; now he
+fell on recreant tribes; now he made head against the French
+columns. Ever in the van, leading on the charge, plunging into the
+thickest of the fight, by his heroic example he encouraged,
+animated, and inspired his small band. His bravest followers fell
+around him; his horses were killed under him; his burnous was
+riddled with bullets; but still he fought on, desperately braving
+and sustaining the battle’s brunt.</p>
+
+<p>Once he was taken unawares. On the 23rd September, 1843, he was
+encamped near the Marabouts (or sacred edifices) of Sidi Yoosuf,
+with a battalion of infantry and 500 irregular horse. A spy
+betrayed his position to Lamoricière. A distance of six leagues was
+between them. The general at once led out in person the 2nd
+Chasseurs d’Afriques. All were elate and confident. The space
+was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_227">[227]</span> rapidly
+traversed by a night’s march. In the grey of dawn the spot was
+reached.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was aroused from sleep by cries of “The French! the
+French!” He had barely time to mount. He might have escaped, but
+death in his eyes was preferable to the double stain of surprise
+and flight. His infantry sprung to their arms, and by his orders
+advanced and fired a volley. His cavalry rallied at his voice.
+Then, as the smoke slowly rolled away, he dashed into the French
+chasseurs, overwhelmed and dispersed them by the suddenness of the
+shock, and after a few minutes’ hard fighting drew off his whole
+force in perfect order.</p>
+
+<p>The Beni Amers had gone over to the French—those same Beni Amers
+whose 4,000 sabres had waved in exultation around the young hero of
+the Djehad; whose brilliant courage had opened before him the path
+of glory and of empire. Abdel Kader determined to attack them.
+Descending suddenly upon them with all his available levies, he
+swept through their encampments, slew numbers, and carried off a
+large booty. A French battalion stationed amongst them struggled
+vainly to arrest his progress. But an Arab chief, one of his old
+followers, boldly singled him out, rode up to him, and fired at him
+point blank. The ball missed. Abdel Kader turned round and shot the
+traitor dead with his pistol.</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding the temporary success of these desperate
+efforts, Abdel Kader well knew that unless some more stable and
+permanent form were given to his energy and perseverance, all
+attempts to regain his former ascendancy, and repair the crumbling
+edifice of his fortunes, would be vain and illusory. Algeria, he
+now clearly saw, was closed to<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_228">[228]</span> him, as a battle-field likely to be
+productive of any solid advantages to his position, notwithstanding
+his endless raids and triumphant razzias. Without external aid, he
+felt the game was lost.</p>
+
+<p>The magnificent Smala was now reduced to his own Deira, barely
+amounting to 1,000 souls, wandering about in miserable uncertainty.
+By fixing it in a place of security, he would be ready for fresh
+efforts. While escorting it to a more favourable spot, Lamoricière
+again crossed his path. A desperate engagement ensued. The women
+animated the combatants with their voices. Abdel Kader and his
+followers, fighting in the presence of their wives and children,
+performed prodigies of valour. Again the Sultan’s formidable
+antagonist was foiled. The Deira was safely established at Bouka
+Cheha, on the territory of Morocco.</p>
+
+<p>The political relations between England and France were at this
+time threatening. Abdel Kader thought the moment propitious. He
+sent an embassy to the Queen of England. In a letter addressed to
+her Majesty, he opened to her the prospect of possessions in
+Algeria. All the sea-coast towns should be ceded to her in full and
+undivided sovereignty. On the other hand, the Arabs required at her
+hands the acknowledgment of their national independence. A glorious
+alliance between the English and the Arabs would present an
+impassible barrier, he urged, to French aggrandisement in Africa.
+The letter was placed in the hands of the Prime Minister. An
+interview with the Queen was sought by his agent, and refused. An
+answer was promised, but it was never sent.</p>
+
+<p>The embassy was at the same time entrusted with a
+letter<span class="pagenum" id="Page_229">[229]</span> from Abdel
+Kader to the Turkish Sultan, to be transmitted through the British
+Foreign Office. In return for succour promptly sent, the Sultan of
+the Arabs offered to acknowledge the descendant of Othman as his
+suzerain. The letter was forwarded to its destination, but no
+results ensued.</p>
+
+<p>Whatever were his expectations from the quarters he thus
+addressed, Abdel Kader’s main reliance was in the support and
+co-operation of the Sultan of Morocco. For years, Sultan Abderahman
+had shown him every mark of unbounded cordiality and esteem, had
+loaded him with presents, and offered him the sweet incense of
+flattery and adulation. But there his friendship stopped.
+Throughout the whole career of Abdel Kader, he had never offered to
+supply him gratuitously with material aid of any kind; and Abdel
+Kader had never condescended to demand it.</p>
+
+<p>Now, however, stern necessity and a solemn sense of religious
+duty compelled him to make the appeal. In the most urgent and
+pressing terms, he adjured the Moorish Sultan to come forward with
+the whole strength and resources of his empire in behalf of the
+common cause. He pointed out the common danger. If all Algeria were
+to be subdued, where, he asked, could be the security for Morocco?
+Pretexts would not be wanting for invading the latter, as pretexts
+had been found for invading the former. The Arab tribes,
+momentarily dispirited, would revive at the sight of the Moorish
+armies, and, with re-enkindled enthusiasm, range themselves round
+the Moorish standards.</p>
+
+<p>Not content with challenging the political and religious
+sympathies of the Sultan of Morocco, Abdel Kader resolved to win
+his patron’s adhesion, if not to extort his alliance,
+by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_230">[230]</span> an act of
+personal devotion. Several of the frontier Morocco tribes had long
+been in open revolt against their sovereign. He marched against
+them, subdued them, and sent the leaders of the rebellion in chains
+to Ouchda, forwarding at the same time a letter from himself to
+Sultan Abderahman, stating his services.</p>
+
+<p>The reply of the Moorish monarch was complimentary, but
+reserved. It held out to him no encouragement. Abdel Kader, finding
+the fruitlessness of his advances in that quarter, now summoned
+around him a few faithful adherents, and, relying on his own
+efforts to retrieve his fortunes, disappeared for some months in
+the Sahara.</p>
+
+<p>The French, relieved of Abdel Kader’s presence, imagined that
+their work was done. His withdrawal from the scene of action was to
+them the grateful symbol of his abdication and defeat. Marshal
+Bugeaud thus congratulated his Government on the glorious
+result:—“After the campaign of the spring (1843), I might have
+proclaimed Algeria to be conquered and subdued. I preferred stating
+less than the truth. But now, after the battle of the 11th of this
+month, in which the remains of the Emir’s infantry were destroyed,
+and in which his first and most distinguished Khalifa was killed, I
+will boldly declare that all serious warfare is finished. Abdel
+Kader may, indeed, with the handful of cavalry he still has about
+him, make some isolated <em>coup de main</em> on the frontier, but
+he can never again attempt anything important.”</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_231">[231]</span><a id=
+"c18"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1844-1845.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> erection of an Arab
+kingdom in Algeria had been viewed by the Sultan of Morocco, not
+only with feelings of religious sympathy and approval, but with a
+cordial appreciation of its commercial advantages. The government
+of the young Sultan of the Arabs, based on a strict and undeviating
+adherence to the principles of the Koran, had largely increased
+both the trade and the revenues of his empire.</p>
+
+<p>Formerly the rich caravans which plied between Fez and the
+southern parts of Africa, passed through Algeria as through an
+enemy’s country. Large guards were necessary to save them from
+spoliation. They were frequently attacked and plundered, with
+serious loss of life. They had to run the gauntlet both of Arabs
+and Turks. If they escaped from the open hostility of the one, they
+were devoured by the grasping avarice and unblushing extortion of
+the other. Now they traversed the whole extent of Algeria in
+perfect safety. In the interior they paid no tolls; at the
+frontiers they paid no duties. In Abdel Kader’s eyes a custom-house
+was an anomaly and an abomination. The legal <em>zekka</em> and
+<em>ashur</em>, and, in case of urgent necessity, the
+<em>marouna</em>, an extraordinary war-contribution, were all that
+his conscience allowed him to demand from his subjects. Industry
+fructified<span class="pagenum" id="Page_232">[232]</span> in its
+natural channels; the reciprocity of exchange was unfettered.</p>
+
+<p>When to all these considerations were added the personal esteem
+and regard, the admiration little short of idolatry with which the
+Moorish Sultan reverenced the once triumphant leader of the Djehad,
+it was fully expected throughout the Moorish population, who
+secretly longed to be led on, in alliance with the Arabs, against
+the infidels, that a loud and strenuous appeal to arms would sooner
+or later have signalised the adhesion of Morocco to the common
+cause, and imparted fresh strength and vigour to Abdel Kader’s
+noble, though waning, efforts of constancy and heroism.</p>
+
+<p>But, however sensitive Sultan Abderahman might have been to the
+instincts of his faith, he was not the less tenacious of the
+stability of his own throne. The invading element had swept
+triumphantly over the barriers raised alike by Turkish and Arab
+desperation. The power which had planted its victorious standards
+in Algiers and Mascara, might well carry them to Fez. A
+demonstration in favour of Abdel Kader on the part of Sultan
+Abderahman, would probably involve them both in a common ruin.
+Balancing between his personal predilections and his political
+fears, the Moorish Sultan hoped to save his conscience and his
+crown, by doing nothing.</p>
+
+<p>Unfortunately for the astuteness of these calculations on the
+part of the Moorish Sultan, the position of Abdel Kader was of such
+a nature as to render a hostile collision between France and
+Morocco inevitable. The sympathies of the Moorish population were
+gradually burning more and more strongly towards the indomitable
+hero who had honoured their<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_233">[233]</span> soil by making it the sanctuary of his
+accumulated glories, his sanctified misfortunes, and his unflagging
+hopes. It required but a spark to raise a widely-spreading and
+inextinguishable conflagration.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had for some time made the Morocco frontier the
+basis of his forays into Algeria. He could retire within the
+Morocco territory without molestation. The French, in order not to
+be thus baffled, had at last advanced a strong division to that
+part of the frontier from whence he made his sallies. But the
+frontier lines were ill defined. There was a portion of the
+territory which might be considered as debateable ground, and this
+debateable ground was boldly occupied by the French.</p>
+
+<p>The name of the place on which Lamoricière and Bedeau fixed on
+for their encampment was Leila Maghnia, so called after the name of
+a celebrated and highly venerated female saint, whose remains lay
+deposited in a stately tomb, erected on the spot. Here the French
+dug entrenchments, hung up their accoutrements, smoked their pipes,
+and sung songs.</p>
+
+<p>The profanation was too glaring to be overlooked, too monstrous
+to be endured. A shout of indignation rolled through the Moorish
+empire. It roused the vacillating monarch from his ignominious
+repose, and compelled him either to see himself engulphed amidst
+the tempestuous waves of an irrepressible fanaticism, or at once to
+send an army to the scene of outrage, for the purpose of asserting
+the national dignity, and avenging the foul insult offered to the
+national faith.</p>
+
+<p>On the 22nd May, 1844, El Ghenaoui, commander of the Moorish
+garrison at Ouchda, summoned the French to evacuate<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_234">[234]</span> Leila Maghnia. The summons was
+treated with contempt. On the 30th, some Moorish troops approached
+the French position, and encouraged by their leader, a fanatic
+Shereef, allied by birth to the Sultan’s family, gave way to their
+impetuous zeal. With menacing shouts and gestures they reached the
+French lines. They fired into the French entrenchments. Lamoricière
+and Bedeau displayed the French standards and marched against them.
+Quickly defeated and dispersed, the enemy fell back upon
+Ouchda.</p>
+
+<p>On the 11th of June, Marshal Bugeaud arrived at the camp. He
+proposed an interview between himself and El Ghenaoui, and the
+arrangement was accepted. The interview was fixed for June 11th.
+Distrust prevailed on either side. Each party came towards the
+ground with a large body of troops. In presence of both armies, the
+chiefs advanced towards each other, accompanied by a small
+escort.</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had the conference begun when the Moorish cavalry were
+observed to be breaking ground and closing in upon the scene of
+parley. With cries of insult and defiance they brandished their
+sabres and discharged their pistols. Bedeau withdrew with dignity,
+disdaining to attempt reprisals. The main body of the enemy,
+mistaking this moderation for weakness, rushed on tumultuously. The
+French drew up in order of battle, waited a short time for
+reinforcements, and then, headed by Bugeaud, retorted the
+challenge. A general engagement ensued. Again the Moors were routed
+and put to flight.</p>
+
+<p>Bugeaud, astounded at these acts of treachery, determined to
+take and occupy Ouchda itself. He wrote to El Ghenaoui demanding an
+explanation. The latter only replied in a<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_235">[235]</span> spirit of prevarication and evasion. The
+French general then sent his ultimatum. In this despatch Abdel
+Kader was declared to be the sole obstacle to a renewal of peace
+and friendship between France and Morocco. The genius of one man
+thus held the reciprocal positions of two empires in suspense. “We
+wish,” wrote General Bugeaud, “to have the same frontier limits
+which the Turks, and Abdel Kader after them, possessed. We want
+nothing which belongs to you. But we must insist on your no longer
+receiving Abdel Kader, granting him aid and support, reviving him
+when he is nearly dead, and launching him forth afresh upon us.
+This is not good friendship; it is war; and such war you have been
+making on us in this manner for two years.</p>
+
+<p>“We desire that you confine to the west of the empire both Abdel
+Kader’s Deira and his principal chiefs, and that you disperse his
+regular troops, both infantry and cavalry. We require also that you
+no longer countenance the emigration of our tribes to your
+territory, and that you immediately send back those who are already
+located there.</p>
+
+<p>“We will bind ourselves reciprocally towards you, in the same
+sense, should the occasion present itself. This is what may justly
+be called the practical observance of the principle of good
+friendship between two nations. On these conditions, we will be
+your friends, we will encourage your commerce, and favour the
+government of Muley Abderahman as much as lies in our power. If you
+act otherwise we shall be your enemies. Answer at once and without
+evasions, for I do not understand them.”</p>
+
+<p>This despatch led to no results. The Moorish army retired into
+the interior; and Bugeaud occupied Ouchda, although<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_236">[236]</span> but temporarily. The dispute,
+thus commenced on the frontier, soon spread into the higher regions
+of diplomacy. The French Government, in the month of June, 1844,
+sent a squadron under Prince de Joinville to the coast of Morocco
+to support its official reclamations. Marshal Bugeaud received
+instructions to commence offensive operations by land. The
+bombardment of Tangiers and Mogador, and the battle of Isly,
+compelled the Moorish Sultan to carry out the views of the
+conquering power. France claimed no territory, no indemnity, not
+even the expenses of the war. It merely begged Sultan Abderahman,
+<em>to deliver it from Abdel Kader</em>. By the 4th article of the
+treaty of peace which was drawn up, and signed by both parties, it
+was stipulated, that “Hadj Abdel Kader is placed beyond the pale of
+the law throughout the entire extent of the empire of Morocco, as
+well as in Algeria. He will, consequently, be pursued by main
+force, by the French on the territory of Algeria, and by the
+Moroccans on their own territory, till he is expelled therefrom, or
+falls into the power of one or other nation. In the event of Abdel
+Kader falling into the hands of the French troops, the Government
+of his Majesty the King of the French engages itself to treat him
+with respect and generosity. In the event of his falling into the
+hands of the Moorish troops, his Majesty the Emperor of Morocco
+engages himself to restrict his abode, for the future, to one of
+the towns on the western coast of his empire, until the two
+Governments shall have concerted such measures as will prevent the
+possibility of his resuming arms, and troubling the tranquillity of
+Algeria and Morocco.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, on the breaking out of hostilities
+between<span class="pagenum" id="Page_237">[237]</span> France and
+Morocco, had returned to the Deira, there to watch the course of
+events. Sultan Abderahman went through the formality of summoning
+him to Fez. But another summons reached Abdel Kader from the
+Moorish capital, of a far different nature. The defeat of their
+armies, the humiliating dictation of the French, the bitter
+reversal of all their ardent hopes, had filled the Moorish
+population with fury and resentment. All ranks inveighed against
+the incapacity, and the craven weakness of their sovereign. All
+demanded Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>Letters from the first grandees of the state, from military and
+civil functionaries, from the commercial classes, informed Abdel
+Kader of the general wish, implored him to rescue the empire from
+impending degradation and ruin, and invited him to ascend the
+throne of his ancestors.</p>
+
+<p>Had Abdel Kader been a vulgar usurper, he had now only to put
+out his hand to seize the sceptre of Morocco. But patriotism, not
+ambition, was his ruling motive. He had taken the field for the
+freedom and independence of Algeria. His thoughts, his vows, his
+prayers, all his concentrated energies of body and mind, were
+devoted to his native land. No offer of greatness could seduce him
+beyond that legitimate sphere of action. He disdained to wear a
+borrowed crown.</p>
+
+<p>“I refused the tempting offer so unanimously made to me,” he
+afterwards said, “not only because my religion forbade me to injure
+a sovereign chosen and appointed by God, but because, knowing
+Morocco as I did, with its discordant races, I felt it would have
+cost me at least twelve or fifteen years, not, indeed, to govern
+like Muley Abderahman, but to enable me in any way to enforce
+submission to the law, and to make my government respected.”</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_238">[238]</span>During the
+spring of 1844, in the hopes of embarrassing the concentration of
+the French army on the frontiers of Morocco, Abdel Kader had made a
+rapid incursion into the regions of the Tell, penetrating even as
+far as Tiaret. Everywhere he appealed to the tribes, convoked their
+chiefs, and called for contingents. But the presence of French
+detachments in all directions had overawed and stupefied the
+national spirit. His summons met with a feeble response. He
+returned to his Deira in the deepest despondency.</p>
+
+<p>In long and anxious reveries, he now examined his position; he
+weighed his prospects; he questioned his conscience. Had he done
+all, he asked himself, that love of country and devotion to his
+faith demanded? Was it too soon to abandon all hope? Was despair
+criminal? He looked around on his Deira, composed of his family and
+a few hundreds of devoted followers, dependent on chance supplies
+for the bare means of existence, and acknowledged that the closing
+scene had come.</p>
+
+<p>Again his mental horizon cleared up. A grand idea presented
+itself to his imagination. He would rally all the tribes of
+Algeria, unable to endure the yoke of the infidels, and lead them
+forth in a body towards Mecca. In this expedition he would live on
+terms of friendship with all who, on their route, welcomed them as
+friends; and pass over the bodies of those who opposed them as
+enemies.</p>
+
+<p>What Arab, he argued to himself, could resist such a mighty
+impulse, or fail to be electrified by such a magnificent proposal?
+What a glorious spectacle would be presented by a whole people
+voluntarily abandoning a land which their forefathers, twelve
+centuries before, had won by their swords, rather than share it
+with the mortal enemies of their faith;<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_239">[239]</span> and bearing back the standards of the
+Prophet in solemn pomp and grandeur, unsullied and uncontaminated,
+to the scenes and regions of their pristine glories!</p>
+
+<p>But while pondering over this gigantic scheme, fresh
+circumstances again aroused him to renewed exertions. Old memories
+rose up before him. The touching appeals of his devoted Khalifas
+still occasionally reached him; renewed assurances of adhesion came
+in from time to time. His heart vibrated and responded to the
+innate conviction that his name still possessed its talismanic
+influence, and that his presence might yet re-animate and inspire
+the breasts of thousands, now sunk in apathy and despair. All
+combined in urging him to undertake the hazards of another
+campaign, in spite of the fearful odds opposed to him.</p>
+
+<p>From the gorges of the Djurjura, the loyal and chivalrous Ben
+Salem had thus addressed his long-absent sovereign:—“How is it that
+you no longer write to us? The sight of your seal, as you well
+know, revives all our hopes. I assure you, your very existence is
+called in question; and it is generally given out that your mother
+writes in your name. The French are preparing to march upon me, and
+I cannot answer for the Kabyles; I am almost inclined to believe,
+they are secretly of the religion of the conqueror. If you delay
+coming amongst us, the misfortunes of Berkani will be nothing
+compared to those with which I shall be overwhelmed. Answer me in
+your own handwriting, I conjure you.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader replied,—“I have received your letter, informing me,
+that the news of my death is spread abroad in the east. No one can
+escape death; such is the decree of the Most High. However, God be
+praised, my hour is not<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_240">[240]</span> yet come. I am yet full of force and
+vigour, and I still hope to attack with energy the enemies of our
+religion. It is by such proofs that men are known. Be always the
+same, calm, patient, unshaken, and God will recompense you. I will
+come to you as soon as my affairs in the west are settled.”</p>
+
+<p>His absence being still prolonged, and disasters rapidly
+succeeding each other in every quarter, his three Khalifas in the
+east held a consultation as to the best measures to be adopted in
+such a desperate state of affairs. Their master was not there to
+cheer and animate their drooping spirits; and as they separated,
+Ben Allal, embracing his colleagues, exclaimed, “May God re-unite
+us in another world, for I have small hope that we shall meet again
+in this.” “Despair not,” said Ben Salem, newly consoled and
+supported by a letter he had just received from Abdel Kader, “I
+trust we shall yet all three of us meet in Algeria.” “Perhaps so,”
+added Ben Allal, dejectedly, “if we submit to the Christians, which
+God forbid.”</p>
+
+<p>Soon after, all communication having been cut off by the French
+troops, the Khalifas to the east were again without any news from
+Abdel Kader. Ben Salem dispatched several chiefs of tribes to
+gather intelligence of his movements. By an unexpected piece of
+good fortune, they found out Abdel Kader himself. He received them
+with affectionate sympathy. Calm and cheerful in the midst of his
+reverses, he listened eagerly to their accounts of the
+embarrassments of his faithful lieutenants, and their still
+untiring zeal. He consoled them with words of comfort and
+assurance; and, on their taking leave, he gave them a horse richly
+caparisoned, as a present to Ben Salem, with the following
+letter:—</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_241">[241]</span>“Be patient in
+adversity; it is that which is the touchstone of great minds.
+Encourage your officials; aid and assist them; bear with their
+faults of judgment; measure the extent of their capacities with
+charity and consideration. This state of affairs cannot last long.
+I hope to be with you speedily, and then we will come to an
+understanding as to the proper course to be adopted. In the
+meantime, I beg you to accept the horse which I send you: it was a
+present to me from Mouley Abderahman. It may perhaps be propitious
+to you.”</p>
+
+<p>The Arab tribes had, in some degree, viewed with satisfaction
+the state of comparative repose which had succeeded to those years
+of constant conflicts, in which, whoever conquered, they were sure
+to be the sufferers. But the gradual establishment of French
+regulations amongst them, and especially the haughtiness and
+severity with which they were enforced, as well as the constant
+presence of French officials, too often distinguished by that
+superciliousness and contemptuous display of superiority which
+intimate intercourse with the eastern races generally engenders in
+the breasts of Europeans, failed not again to awaken their
+slumbering feelings of hatred and fanaticism.</p>
+
+<p>To minds thus prepared for renewed action, the emissaries of
+certain secret religious societies which existed amongst the
+tribes, found ready access. The arm of the Lord, they were assured,
+was about to be visibly revealed. The <em>Mouley Saa</em>, or
+“Master of the hour,” so long expected by all true and fervent
+believers, had appeared, as they were told, and was already in the
+field. “Woe be to those who hung back in doubt or fear,” was the
+rallying cry of these fanatics.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_242">[242]</span>The sect of the
+“Derkaouas,” famous above all others for their furious and
+infatuated zeal, had found a tool, and boldly put him forward. In
+March, 1845, Mohammed-ibn-Abdallah, surnamed Bou Maza, raised the
+sacred standard in the Dahra and the valley of the Cheliff. This
+newly-installed prophet preached from place to place, exclaiming,
+“I am the destined one who is to appear at the hour predicted in
+the prophecies, the hour of deliverance.” He pledged himself to rid
+Algeria of the French within the year.</p>
+
+<p>This impostor had his goat (which suggested his nickname, Bou
+Maza, or “father of the goat”), as Sertorius had his bitch, through
+which he pretended to receive celestial communications. He promised
+to all who believed in his mission, not only the plunder of the
+Christians, but also of all recreant Mussulmans. By these means he
+collected around him several hundred followers, and surprised and
+attacked some French posts. His successes aroused competitors.
+Whenever the French advanced, they were met by Bou Maza. The
+fermentation was temporarily, but only temporarily, appeased by the
+French. A greater personage than Bou Maza was about to re-appear on
+the scene.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, though not a participator in the agitation which
+had been lately set on foot to excite the tribes, saw the ground
+prepared for him. He resolved to reap the harvest which had been
+sown. He descended into the valley of the Tafna, and routed and cut
+to pieces a French detachment at Sidi Ibrahim. In this action the
+lower part of his right ear was carried away by a musket ball. This
+wound was the only serious one that he ever received.</p>
+
+<p>Another detachment laid down its arms to him without<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_243">[243]</span> firing a shot, at Ain
+Temouchen. The collective prisoners amounted to six hundred. They
+were brought before him. He consoled them in their misfortune.
+“Never despair of the future,” he said; “no harm shall come to you.
+God has decreed that you should fall into my power; He may yet
+decree your liberation.”</p>
+
+<p>The news of these successes spread rapidly abroad. Rumour
+magnified their importance. All hearts beat high with expectation.
+Soon letters from Abdel Kader were read and handed about with
+transport. In these letters the Arabs were told to be of good
+cheer, since their Sultan would soon be amongst them, and implored
+not to permit any partial and ill-judged rising to defeat the
+common aim. The Khalifas of Abdel Kader had received their
+instructions. “Let all patiently await the signal,” it was written,
+“and then rush with fury on the foe before them.”</p>
+
+<p>The French felt the coming storm; they recognised the genius of
+Abdel Kader; the danger was imminent. Lamoricière, Cavaignac,
+Bedeau, pressed the government for reinforcements. They urged the
+immediate return of Bugeaud. The Marshal left France accordingly,
+and reached Algeria October 15, 1845. He brought new legions.
+Within a week he took the field at the head of 120,000 men. He
+determined, by a timely display of unrelenting rigour, to forestall
+the menaced blow.</p>
+
+<p>Fourteen divisions, each complete in infantry, cavalry, and
+artillery, scoured the devoted land in every direction, some acting
+in concert, others independently, but all crushing out resistance,
+wherever it appeared, with fire and sword. Men were pitilessly
+slain, habitations ruthlessly burnt, crops given<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_244">[244]</span> over to conflagration,
+fugitives smothered alive in caves. St. Arnaud led on “The Infernal
+Column.” Algeria once more felt all the strength of European
+civilisation, but now untempered by that mercy which ought to be
+its attribute.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_245">[245]</span><a id=
+"c19"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1845-1847.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Flushed</span> with his recent
+triumph, and anxious to realise the hopes it had awakened in every
+quarter to which the news of it had reached, Abdel Kader, in the
+month of October 1845, carried his standards to the plains of
+Mascara. Here he was again hailed with as much enthusiasm as at the
+outset of his career. All the tribes which had submitted to the
+French rallied round him. The garrison of Mascara came out against
+him, but was driven back with loss. The French entrenched camps of
+Saida and Taza were strictly blockaded.</p>
+
+<p>But other portions of the country required his presence. It was
+his policy not so much to adopt a system of combined attack against
+the French, which, from his want of regular infantry and artillery,
+was next to impossible, as to foment the spirit of insurrection in
+all parts of the Regency, to keep the French perpetually on the
+alert by his meteor-like appearance in districts apparently
+subdued, to revive hostilities ostensibly extinguished, and then,
+by the rapidity of his movements, to baffle all the measures
+directed against him.</p>
+
+<p>He now advanced to Tekedemt with 6,000 cavalry, and prepared to
+descend into the valley of the Cheliff. The Beni Shaib, a large and
+important tribe, one hundred and fifty miles away to the south,
+were reported to him as about to go<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_246">[246]</span> over to the French. The contemplated
+movement into the valley of the Cheliff was instantly suspended.
+The wavering tribe suddenly found itself attacked by Abdel Kader at
+the head of 5,000 cavalry. Their chiefs were seized, their flocks
+carried off, their coffers emptied.</p>
+
+<p>The movements of the French had, in the meantime, compelled him
+to alter his plans. No sooner was it known that Abdel Kader was in
+the Tell, than all their efforts were concentrated in that
+direction. The columns of Lamoricière, Bedeau, Yoosuf, and Marcey,
+were all set in motion. Orders were given, that whichever column
+found itself in presence of Abdel Kader, was to fire a signal gun,
+on which the other columns were immediately to converge and lend
+their aid.</p>
+
+<p>Lamoricière was the first to come up with him, near Tiaret,
+December 1, 1845. He was protecting the emigration of several
+tribes, who, under his direction, were withdrawing into the desert.
+The signal gun was fired. Bedeau, Yoosuf, and Bugeaud, rapidly
+emerged on the scene. But Abdel Kader, always admirably served by
+spies, frustrated this combination, and within forty-eight hours
+had removed the seat of his operations to the Ouarensis.</p>
+
+<p>Bugeaud, Lamoricière, Yoosuf, and St. Arnaud, followed in
+breathless haste, and were again on the Sultan’s traces; but their
+ubiquitous foe everywhere gave them the slip, and for weeks led
+them a fruitless dance through the valleys of the Cheliff.</p>
+
+<p>On one occasion he nearly succeeded in annihilating the
+third-named general. On encountering Yoosuf in person on 23rd
+December, near Temela, he pretended to fly. Yoosuf, falling into
+the snare, followed him up with 2,000 cavalry.<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_247">[247]</span> After thus drawing the French on for
+some time, Abdel Kader suddenly faced about and charged them with
+500 irregulars. The rain fell in torrents. The firearms of the
+French would not go off. Their horses were dead beat. They got lost
+in the intricacies of the ground, and were on the point of
+surrendering, when the unexpected advance of a column of infantry
+averted their fate.</p>
+
+<p>That very night Abdel Kader slipped between the columns of
+Bugeaud and Lamoricière, made a sweeping razzia on the Beni Esdama,
+between Tekedemt and Mascara, carried off all their cattle, with
+abundance of corn and barley, and retired unmolested into the
+Sahara. Several tribes here brought him the usual tribute.</p>
+
+<p>He now conceived the daring project of visiting the Djurjura,
+rallying the Kabyles, and making a dash into the Metija. Ben Salem,
+duly informed, prepared to second this movement.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader left the Sahara in February, 1846, followed by part
+of the Beni Hassan, passed, unobserved, through the Wady Isser to
+the east of Medea, and, making a razzia by the way on the Beni
+Hadoura, who served the French, reached the Djurjura, where the
+Kabyles stood ready to await his bidding. With a force of 5,000
+warriors, accumulated as if by magic, he now swept down into the
+plains, ravaged and destroyed the French colonies, and advanced to
+within four hours of Algiers itself. The French generals were all
+the while searching about for him in the high ground of the
+Tell.</p>
+
+<p>On the 7th February, he was encamped at the foot of the
+Djurjura. While engaged in midnight prayer, he heard the French
+order to charge. In another moment, the French<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_248">[248]</span> were upon him. He sprang on his horse
+and called on his men to rally. The Chasseurs closed around him. He
+fought with them single-handed. Two horses were shot under him. He
+fought on foot. He became undistinguishable in the confusion of the
+skirmish, and aided by the darkness of the night effected his
+escape.</p>
+
+<p>On the 28th Abdel Kader held a grand council of war at Burj bou
+Keni. Deputies from all the Kabyle tribes were present. The
+question of war was warmly mooted. For a time the majority were in
+favour of a continuation of hostilities. At this moment news was
+brought in that Bugeaud was advancing against them with superior
+forces. The moderate party immediately gained the ascendancy.
+Attack and defence were declared to be alike hazardous. Prudence
+was preferable to a fruitless enthusiasm. In that would be the best
+guarantee for the preservation of their liberties.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader left the Djurjura. In a few hours he was in the
+vicinity of Bayhan. There, on the 7th of March, he surprised,
+routed, and plundered the French Douairs, with his body guard of
+2,000 cavalry. The booty was immense. All the mules and camels of
+the tribes scarcely sufficed to remove it. The long train and its
+escort entered the passes of the Djebel Amour, seeking by rapid
+stages the districts of the Beni Nail, in the Sahara.</p>
+
+<p>On the 13th, while bringing up the rear guard with seventy men,
+Abdel Kader was again attacked by General Yoosuf, who, finding out
+the direction he had taken, had followed him up by forced marches.
+An open space of ground gave the French unusual advantages. Abdel
+Kader was conspicuous on a white charger. Alternately firing and
+charging,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_249">[249]</span> he kept
+the enemy at bay. His men fought with desperation. Forty were
+killed. At length, after two hours’ hard fighting, and after
+performing prodigies of valour, Abdel Kader was lost to view in a
+defile.</p>
+
+<p>The French were amazed at his gallantry. When, at a later
+period, he was in Paris, the object of universal curiosity and
+admiration, the French general who commanded on this memorable day
+recalled to Abdel Kader the impression made on all who witnessed
+his chivalrous demeanour at a moment when to all appearances he was
+irrecoverably lost, “If one of our officers had displayed such
+extraordinary heroism,” said General Yoosuf, “the Emperor would
+have sent him the decoration of the Legion of Honour.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had hoped to recruit his forces amongst the tribes
+of the Sahara. But the French had forestalled him. Everywhere their
+columns and detachments made themselves felt. The Beni Nail, the
+Beni Shaib, the Beni Hassan, from whose resources he had long been
+accustomed to supply his wants, and with whom he had often found
+shelter in the hour of need, all submitted successively to the
+persevering foe. Wherever Abdel Kader presented himself he found
+lassitude and despondency. Indeed his presence began to be looked
+upon as an omen of misfortune, and a prelude to ruin.</p>
+
+<p>He visited the Oulad-Sidi-Chirk, a large and powerful tribe at
+the southern extremity of the Sahara. Their chiefs and marabouts
+thronged about him. They condoled with him. They assured him of
+their warmest sympathies. They offered him a temporary hospitality.
+But they adjured him not to entail upon them the horrors of war,
+and so to expose the venerated tombs of their saints to the
+profanation of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_250">[250]</span>
+infidel. Abdel Kader received the intimation with composure and
+resignation. Accompanied by his faithful escort, he now returned to
+his Deira, on the Melouia, in Morocco.</p>
+
+<p>He arrived there July 18th, 1846. A terrible episode had just
+occurred. The French prisoners taken in the affairs of Sidi Ibrahim
+and Ain Temouchen, in September, 1845, had been sent to the Deira.
+They had been presented to the Sultan’s mother, had met with a most
+assuring reception, and had been well treated. Nothing was withheld
+that could mitigate the painfulness of their situation. Abdel Kader
+had more than once written to Bugeaud, offering an exchange of
+prisoners, but his offer had been treated with contempt. Such was
+the position of the prisoners when he had left the Deira, on his
+late expedition.</p>
+
+<p>The Deira, to which was always attached a small body of
+regulars, was under the charge of Ben Hamedi. On the 10th of April,
+1846, Mustapha-ibn-Thamy, the Sultan’s brother-in-law, arrived from
+the Sahara and took the command. He had left Abdel Kader three days
+after his brilliant action with General Yoosuf, in the Djebel
+Amour, and brought with him several wounded and invalids. He found
+the Deira greatly reduced in numbers, by desertion, by suffering,
+by privation. Provisions had become scarce. The Moorish tribes in
+the vicinity would only furnish supplies for ready money; and of
+money there was little or none. Two hundred and eighty prisoners
+had become an embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p>In this crisis a report reached Mustapha-ibn-Thamy that the
+Moorish troops, who were not far distant, were about to advance and
+rescue the prisoners. He had no force sufficient to resist such an
+enterprise if it was attempted. The idea of such a<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_251">[251]</span> stain upon his honour preyed
+upon his mind. If he made his small band of regulars fight to keep
+them, Moslem blood would be shed, and probably fruitlessly shed,
+for the sake of infidels. If he tamely surrendered them, how could
+he look Abdel Kader in the face? He determined to make away with
+them. On the night of the 24th of April they were massacred. Ten
+officers alone were spared.</p>
+
+<p>The first step taken by Abdel Kader on his arrival at the Deira,
+July 18th, was to endeavour to get the survivors exchanged. His
+efforts, as usual in such matters, failed. They were, however,
+finally ransomed for 30,000 francs. Abdel Kader felt it due to his
+own reputation, utterly guiltless as he was of this deed of blood,
+to address the following letter to the King of the French:—</p>
+
+<p>“Praise be to God, the merciful and compassionate. Glory to our
+lord and master Mohammed.</p>
+
+<p>“On the part of the Prince of the Faithful, Sid-il Hadj Abdel
+Kader-ibn Mehi-ed-deen, may God vouchsafe unto him his favour both
+in this and another world; to the Sultan of the Christians, the
+commander-in-chief of the French armies, King Louis Philippe, may
+God constantly promote the increase of his power, and the execution
+of his projects in all that relates to the happiness of his people,
+and especially enable him to exalt those who follow the good path,
+and to confound all who do otherwise.</p>
+
+<p>“I would call to your recollection that we have ever been ready
+to accept conditions of peace. We have even accepted conditions
+which you thought proper to impose upon us. We rejoiced to be on a
+good understanding with you. Our alliance was cemented by good
+faith. Our treaties had your<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_252">[252]</span> personal approbation. By an exchange of
+presents we likewise confirmed our mutual feelings of
+friendship.</p>
+
+<p>“Such was our position up to the moment when certain influential
+persons in Algeria gave a too willing ear to perfidious
+insinuations tending to interrupt the harmony which existed between
+us, and represented us as being culpable and blameworthy, whereas
+it was we, on the contrary, who had every reason to complain of
+their injustice committed towards us.</p>
+
+<p>“I have written to you many times, both officially and
+confidentially, and invariably my intentions were misconstrued to
+such an extent that the evil consequences spread themselves
+unchecked all over Algeria.</p>
+
+<p>“During our late expedition in the East, and in the numerous
+battles we fought, God permitted many prisoners to fall into our
+hands. We rejoiced at the circumstance, because it gave us power to
+offer an exchange. Last year we were unable to treat for the
+deliverance of the Mussulman prisoners in your hands, because we
+were not prepared to offer you a proposition which would have
+suited you. In previous years, however, we have sent back to
+Marshal Bugeaud more than a hundred prisoners without exchange.</p>
+
+<p>“Lately, when we had a certain number of your subjects in our
+power, we wrote more than once to those who represent you to
+propose an exchange of prisoners. We received no answer. All the
+bearers of our letters were imprisoned. That was a treachery
+foreign to French usage. Besides, a message between hostile sides
+is always considered neutral.</p>
+
+<p>“Shortly afterwards it was rumoured amongst the Arabs that the
+French prisoners were to be rescued by force. It<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_253">[253]</span> was known that French agents
+had offered large sums of money to any who would conduct the
+prisoners to the French outposts. It was, moreover, openly declared
+that the Emperor of Morocco had undertaken to rescue the prisoners
+in spite of us. Your own agents thus became the chief cause of the
+deplorable event which has occurred, by their persistence in
+refusing to treat of an exchange of prisoners.</p>
+
+<p>“We have never made any difference between the prisoners and our
+own men as regards their food and lodging. As soon as we saw there
+were amongst them men of rank and honour, who scorned to seek for
+means of escape, we gave them a marked preference over the others.
+We found them grateful. We proposed to set them at liberty. Their
+chief (Cognord) knows all the arrangements which were being made
+for their liberation. He knows that we never received any reply to
+our letters, and that this contemptuous silence was the cause of
+the cessation of the good understanding between you and us.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader concluded with an urgent appeal for the release of
+some Mussulman prisoners, and a warm exculpation of himself from
+all knowledge or connivance at any measures whatever which were
+contrary to justice and religion. This letter, like all the
+preceding, remained unanswered.</p>
+
+<p>During Abdel Kader’s late absence from the Deira, several Arab
+tribes had been gradually crossing the frontier, and fixing
+themselves on Moorish territory. The Moorish Sultan had given them
+lands to occupy. The jealousy of the French was awakened. They
+feared that the emigrants might eventually become the nucleus of an
+invading force. The late massacre added to their impatience. They
+called upon Sultan<span class="pagenum" id="Page_254">[254]</span>
+Abderahman to show at once by his deeds the sincerity of his
+professions. They demanded the immediate expulsion of Abdel Kader
+from his empire.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, meanwhile, only anxious for freedom from
+molestation, had already commenced sowing the grounds near the
+Melouia for the subsistence of his Deira. Bou Maza wrote to him
+inviting him to join him in renewing the struggle. He rejected the
+instigation. With whatever the future might be pregnant, for the
+present he sought only repose and tranquillity. But these blessings
+he was not allowed to obtain. Mouley Abderahman sent him a letter
+to the effect that he must immediately withdraw, with his Deira,
+from Moorish territory.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader assembled his followers, and read them the letter.
+They unanimously declared it would be ignominious to yield to the
+demand of a recreant who had betrayed his faith and signed a
+humiliating treaty with the infidel. “We have pledged ourselves by
+oath,” they said, “to fight with you to the death. We are ready to
+follow you wherever you choose. But into Algeria we will not follow
+you. Abdel Kader conveyed these sentiments to Abderahman, promising
+at the same time not to attack the French. In his Deira he would
+resignedly await the decrees of God.</p>
+
+<p>The Moorish tribes were now secretly instructed to molest the
+Deira. They refused to sell it provisions. Its foraging parties
+were attacked and robbed. Abdel Kader wrote a strong appeal to
+Abderahman against such conduct. He got neither answer nor redress.
+He endured this treatment patiently for six months. Again he
+addressed the Moorish Sultan, and warned him that if such
+annoyances were continued he should vindicate his own rights.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_255">[255]</span>In self-defence
+he now re-assumed a hostile attitude. His body-guard of 1,200
+cavalry and 800 infantry patrolled the country on all sides. The
+Moorish aggressors were chased to their very tents; they were
+brought to the Deira and chastised. By a few such acts of vigour
+his position was improved; provisions flowed in. More than one
+Moorish tribe offered to join the Deira. Wherever Abdel Kader
+showed his person he was welcomed with professions of submission
+and allegiance; his material strength increased hourly. The large
+and influential tribe of the Beni Hamian sent in their
+adhesion.</p>
+
+<p>One night, while the Deira was still at Ain Zohra, an assassin
+glided, unperceived by the guards, into the tent of Abdel Kader.
+The Sultan was reading. Hearing a footstep, he raised his head, and
+saw standing before him a tall, powerful negro, with a dagger in
+his hand. Suddenly the man dashed the weapon to the ground, and
+threw himself at his feet. “I was going to strike you,” he
+exclaimed, “but the sight of you disarmed me. I thought I saw the
+halo of the Prophet around your head.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, rising slowly from his seat, and without betraying
+the least emotion, placed his hand on the negro’s head and said,
+“You came into my tent as an assassin. God, who moved you to repent
+of your wicked intention, has ordained that you should leave it an
+innocent man. Go, then, and remember that the servant of God has
+pardoned you.”</p>
+
+<p>In the month of July, 1847, the Deira was encamped in Wady
+Aslaf, on the territory of the Kabyles of the Rif. While in this
+position it was suddenly menaced by a large Moorish force led by
+Mouley Hashem, the Sultan’s nephew,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_256">[256]</span> and the Kaid El Hamra. The Prince began by
+sending out a strong reconnaissance, which was immediately repulsed
+by the Deira’s outposts. Abdel Kader sent to the Prince to demand
+an explanation as to the cause of this hostile proceeding in the
+midst of peace. He received a haughty and disdainful answer. That
+very night he fell upon the Moorish camp by surprise, and
+completely routed and dispersed it. The Kaid El Hamra was slain,
+and Mouley Hashem barely escaped with his life.</p>
+
+<p>A great quantity of baggage was taken, and specie to the amount
+of £2,000 English money. Abdel Kader and his chiefs viewed with
+mingled feelings of scorn and triumph the splendid cloaks and
+burnouses which the Moorish Prince had packed up in cases, for the
+purpose of distributing them amongst the Sheiks of the Rif tribes,
+and inducing them by such gifts to join him. On his return to the
+Deira Abdel Kader found that the Beni Kullayieh, availing
+themselves of his absence, had made an irruption into his camp and
+carried off all the camels. Without a moment’s repose he pursued
+the marauders, slew upwards of a hundred of them, and captured all
+their Sheiks.</p>
+
+<p>The rumour of Abdel Kader’s renewed activity, and of the
+momentary gleam of success which shone upon his efforts, was
+quickly bruited throughout the Moorish empire. It created a
+sensation amongst its fanatic population which thrilled to the very
+capital. The emigrant Algerian tribes, which had been located by
+order of the Moorish Sultan within three days of Fez, longed to
+regain their adored chief. The Beni Amer entered into
+correspondence with him, and begged him to assist them in effecting
+a junction.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_257">[257]</span>Sultan
+Abderahman got notice of the design. In his terror he fancied Abdel
+Kader thundering at his palace and hurling him from his throne. Not
+a moment was to be lost; a force of 15,000 men was at once
+despatched against Beni Amer. The tribe, taken unawares, was cut to
+pieces, while the women and children were carried away into
+slavery.</p>
+
+<p>Such persevering and even barbarous acts of hostility filled
+Abdel Kader with despair and indignation. But what could his
+handful of men effect against the combined armies of France and
+Morocco, amounting to 100,000 men? He determined to make a last
+appeal to his old friend, patron, and admirer. He sent his Khalifa,
+Bou Hamedi, on a mission to Fez. In the most solemn manner he
+invoked the glorious recollections of the past. He claimed the
+sacred rites of hospitality in the name of every tie of friendship
+and religion.</p>
+
+<p>But the days of country, of fraternity, of holy sympathy, were
+irrevocably past. Mouley Abderahman saw himself daily environed
+with fresh difficulties. The French Government hourly demanded the
+literal execution of its treaty. Bou Hamedi was thrown into prison,
+where he shortly afterwards died. Abdel Kader at length received
+the following imperial mandate:—“Abdel Kader must either surrender
+himself in person to Sultan Abderahman, or return to the Algerian
+desert. In case of refusal or delay, the imperial armies will march
+against him.” The last link was thus broken between him and his
+only hope. He stood at bay, alone.</p>
+
+<p>Calm and undismayed, he now saw the toils closing around him. In
+the Deira all was grief and despondency. His own brothers had left
+him. Ben Salem—the faithful, long-tried,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_258">[258]</span> and devoted Ben Salem—was a voluntary
+prisoner in the French camp. His whole available force barely
+amounted to 2,000 men, but among these there were 1,200 horsemen,
+the flower of the Algerian cavalry. Most of these men, also, had
+been the Sultan’s inseparable companions, partakers in all his
+hardships and dangers throughout the whole of his heroic
+career.</p>
+
+<p>During the short period of rest which Abdel Kader now enjoyed,
+he daily summoned them around him. He was incessant in vocal prayer
+and exhortation. The bronzed old warriors hung with rapture on his
+accents. Fired with martial enthusiasm, they prepared for the final
+act.</p>
+
+<p>At other times Abdel Kader retired to his tent, and kept long
+and lonely vigils. One night he stood up for seven successive hours
+while he repeated off by heart the whole of the Koran, from
+beginning to end. In such religious exercises he renewed his soul’s
+strength. Ever worthy of his destiny, he now towered above it.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_259">[259]</span><a id=
+"c20"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1847.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">On</span> the 9th of December,
+1847, the Deira was stationed at Agueddin, on the left bank of the
+Melouia. It comprised in all about 5,000 souls. Rumours had long
+been afloat that the Moroccan army was advancing towards it in
+great strength. On the 10th Abdel Kader got positive information
+that Muley Mohammed and Muley Soliman, the two sons of Sultan
+Abderahman, were at only three hours’ distance, at the head of
+upwards of 50,000 men. This force, he learned, was divided into
+three grand divisions, with intervals of half a mile between each.
+The first division, consisting mostly of Arab auxiliaries, such as
+the tribes of the Riff, the Beni Snassen, and others, had taken up
+its ground, it was reported, around the ruined castle of
+Selwan.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader saw at once that if this imposing array was
+permitted to move forwards unmolested, his Deira would inevitably
+be captured. On the other hand, to attack it with his small force
+seemed to him like to rushing on certain destruction. Feelings of
+honour, of chivalry, of revenge, however, all conspired to make him
+determine on essaying a desperate effort.</p>
+
+<p>On the 11th he collected together his 1,200 cavalry and 800
+infantry. After a spirited harangue, he informed them<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_260">[260]</span> that they must prepare that
+very night to follow him to battle. To such a command, amongst such
+followers, there could be but one reply. They all departed in
+silence to accoutre themselves for the approaching struggle.</p>
+
+<p>At dead of night they moved on. Two camels, covered entirely
+with <em>halfa</em>, a kind of brushwood, and which had been dipped
+in tar and pitch, were driven in front of the little column. After
+a march of two hours the first division of the enemy was reached;
+the <em>halfa</em> around the camels was set fire to, and the
+maddened animals plunged furiously on; the infantry fired; the
+cavalry, led on by Abdel Kader, charged.</p>
+
+<p>The amazement and bewilderment of the Moroccans and the Arabs
+upon whom this sudden tempest fell was immeasurable. Slumbering in
+fancied security during the calm silence of the night, they
+suddenly saw the thick darkness illumined by flashes of light, the
+glistening of sabres, and the glare of two incomprehensible meteors
+sweeping above and around them with unearthly coruscations. The
+terrors of superstition were superadded to those of fright and
+consternation. The men rushed off in all directions, as though the
+gates of hell had been opened and its demons let loose against
+them, abandoning arms, tents, and baggage.</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime Abdel Kader and his cavalry had passed on, and
+were in deadly collision with the second division, which in like
+manner was surprised, defeated, and dispersed. In less than half an
+hour the third division was reached. There, warned by the noise and
+tumult in their front, the Moroccan princes had just had time to
+draw up some regulars to defend their persons. The intention of
+Abdel Kader was to make straight for their tent and make them
+prisoners.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_261">[261]</span> Checked
+by a heavy fire of infantry and artillery, he now withdrew; and, as
+the day dawned, slowly and steadily he took up a position on an
+adjoining eminence, and thence enjoyed the sight of his discomfited
+and broken foe.</p>
+
+<p>At mid-day, 5,000 Moroccan cavalry moved out against him. He
+calmly awaited their approach, and when they had arrived at a
+charging distance led on his men to the attack, ploughing through
+and through their clustering files, and shaking them off like
+dew-drops from the lion’s mane. By a skilful combination of assault
+and retreat, Abdel Kader and his illustrious cavalcade regained the
+Melouia towards sunset.</p>
+
+<p>Many were the brilliant passages of arms performed by those
+giant warriors, who, in that memorable struggle, crowned their long
+career of glory by deeds of superhuman valour. Memorable also was
+that struggle, as having furnished the closing scene to the
+stirring and eventful career of Ibn Yahyié, the favourite and
+far-famed Aga of Abdel Kader. Ibn Yahyié was the stalwart champion
+of countless combats. He was surnamed “El Sheitan” from his
+wondrous exploits and marvellous escapes. In his day he had had
+seventeen horses killed under him. It was now his destiny to earn
+his last laurels in a martyr’s death.</p>
+
+<p>The Deira had nearly effected its passage across the river. The
+baggage and the spoils taken from the enemy were still traversing
+it when Abdel Kader arrived. The Moroccan army advanced, but
+cautiously. Their cavalry now only fired long shots, unenvious of
+renewing their lately-earned bitter experience.</p>
+
+<p>Nevertheless, the situation of Abdel Kader was full of peril.
+Never had the Deira been in such imminent danger.<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_262">[262]</span> The ammunition was expended.
+The large quantities of ammunition which Abdel Kader’s followers
+had captured and were now bringing in proved useless—it was
+unsuited to their muskets. The infantry, therefore, could be turned
+to no account. But Abdel Kader still saw his Old Guard around him,
+and looked and felt triumphant. Their presence was, in his mind,
+the Deira’s safeguard.</p>
+
+<p>The Melouia was at length passed. Though the foe kept pressing
+on, Abdel Kader refused to leave its banks until his Deira was a
+full hour in advance, on the plain of Triffa. At last it reached
+the river Kis, crossed it about midnight, and ceased to be
+molested. It was on French territory.</p>
+
+<p>Of all that tumultuous crowd of men, women, children, and
+animals, not a life had been sacrificed, not a beast of burden had
+been lost. Abdel Kader, by his coolness, skill, and intrepidity,
+had been its guardian genius. Many a sad blank, however, had been
+made in the ranks of that heroic band, which with such unflinching
+devotion had answered to the voice of its chief and emulated his
+example, throughout the unparalleled foray in which under his
+guidance they had been so unequally engaged. Upwards of 200 had
+been slain. All were more or less bleeding from wounds. Abdel Kader
+himself had had three horses shot under him.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving his Deira in momentary security, he now turned towards
+the hills of the Beni Snassen—a tribe which yet adhered to him in
+part. His indomitable cavalry followed in anxious silence,
+suffering, wearied, and exhausted. The rain fell in torrents. Heavy
+and conflicting thoughts preyed on the mind of the wandering chief.
+Though the French were seen in the distance, occupying the
+principal pass of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_263">[263]</span>
+the Kerbous, there were yet narrow defiles through which he could
+emerge into the Sahara. He might yet try his fortunes. But to what
+end? he thought despairingly. How was he to persevere in a bootless
+struggle? What force had he at command? On what assistance could he
+calculate? Then his thoughts reverted to his aged mother, his wife
+and children, his helpless followers, who were within three hours
+of the French camp, and might probably enter it ere long a mounted
+train, as prisoners of war. In no extremity had Abdel Kader ever
+found himself so hopelessly pressed. He felt the crisis of his fate
+had come. What he meant to determine, he knew he must determine
+quickly.</p>
+
+<p>He sounded a halt. He ordered his men to close up. When they had
+surrounded him, he thus commenced a conference which he had that
+moment resolved to open:—</p>
+
+<p>“Do you remember the oath you took at Medea eight years ago, at
+the renewal of the war,” he said—“the oath that you would never
+forsake or abandon me, whatever might be your dangers or
+sufferings?”</p>
+
+<p>“We all remember it, and are ready still to adhere to it.” “That
+oath,” pursued Abdel Kader, “I have ever considered to be binding
+on me towards you, as well as on you towards me. It is this feeling
+alone which has made me persevere in our struggle up to this hour,
+even against hope. I was resolved that no Mussulman, of whatever
+rank or degree, should ever be able to accuse me of binding you to
+any engagement which I on my part was not equally prepared to
+fulfil; or to say that I had not done all in my power to insure the
+triumph of the cause of God. If you think I can yet do anything,
+tell me. If not, I ask you to<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_264">[264]</span> release me from the oath I made you
+mentally, when I solemnly demanded yours.”</p>
+
+<p>“We all bear witness before God, that you have done all that it
+was in your power to do for his cause. At the day of judgment God
+will do you justice.”</p>
+
+<p>“If that is your opinion, we have now only three courses open
+before us—either to return for the Deira, and with it be prepared
+to encounter every obstacle; or to seek out a path for ourselves
+into the Sahara, in which case, the women, children, and wounded
+would not be able to follow us, and must fall into the hands of the
+enemy; or, lastly, to submit.”</p>
+
+<p>“Perish women and children, both ours and yours, so long as you
+are safe and able to renew the battles of God. You are our head,
+our Sultan; fight or surrender, as you will, we will follow you
+wherever you choose to lead.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader paused for a few moments, and then with deep emotion
+resumed:—</p>
+
+<p>“Believe me, the struggle is over. Let us be resigned. God is
+witness that we have fought as long as we have been able. If He has
+not given us the victory, it is because He has deemed that this
+land should belong to the Christians. It signifies very little
+whether I remain in the country or not. What more can I do for the
+cause we have so long defended together? Can I renew the war? I
+shall be defeated; and the Arabs would only be exposed to renewed
+sufferings.</p>
+
+<p>“Besides, the tribes are tired of the war. They would no longer
+obey me. We must submit. The only question is, whether we shall
+deliver ourselves into the hands of the Christians, or into those
+of Mouley Abderahman. In this respect you can do as you judge best.
+As for myself, I would<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_265">[265]</span> prefer a thousand times to trust in those
+who have fought against me, than in the man who has betrayed me.
+Our situation is difficult; and our demands must consequently be
+modest. I shall confine myself to asking for a safe conduct for
+myself and my family, and those of you who choose to follow me to
+another Mussulman country.”</p>
+
+<p>A doubt was now raised by some of the members of the conference
+as to the probability of such a stipulation being faithfully
+carried into execution. To this doubt Abdel Kader replied, “Do not
+be afraid. The word of the French is one. Either they will not
+pledge their word to its fulfilment, and then we can see what is
+best to be done; or if they pledge their word, they will keep it.”
+“Sultan,” was the universal reply, “let your will be done.”</p>
+
+<p>The rain was still falling so incessantly that it was impossible
+for Abdel Kader to write down his demands. Taking a piece of paper,
+he affixed his seal to it, and immediately dispatched it with two
+horsemen, who were commissioned to show the seal to the French
+General, as a sign of authorisation on his part for demands which
+they were to make in his name verbally.</p>
+
+<p>During the night of the 21st December, Lamoricière had been
+informed both of the arrival of the Deira within the French
+frontier, and of the direction which Abdel Kader and his little
+force had taken. To the Deira he at once sent assurances of safety.
+The prize was important. But the concentration of any amount of men
+against the camp of Abdel Kader would have been of little permanent
+avail, if the redoubtable chief himself were yet at large. Without
+a moment’s delay, therefore, Lamoricière started in<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_266">[266]</span> his pursuit, at the head of a
+small column of infantry and cavalry.</p>
+
+<p>He had scarcely marched three hours when he was unexpectedly
+joined by Ben Khouia, a lieutenant of his Arab Spahis, accompanied
+by the two emissaries of Abdel Kader. The latter showed him their
+master’s seal and stated his demands. Lamoricière was overjoyed. He
+granted everything. But, as in the case of Abdel Kader, the rain
+prevented him from stating his consent in writing, and his seal was
+not in his possession. In this emergency he gave his sword, and the
+seal of Commandant Bazaine, to the emissaries, to be presented to
+Abdel Kader in token of the acceptance of his conditions.</p>
+
+<p>At a later period, when taunted in the Chamber of Deputies with
+having allowed Abdel Kader to escape, when by a little energy he
+could have taken him prisoner, and with having committed a grave
+error in so unreservedly granting him the privilege of unrestricted
+liberty, Lamoricière thus defended his conduct, defined his
+position, and stated the motives which had induced him to sign the
+treaty thus attacked:—</p>
+
+<p>“It has been brought as a charge against me that I entered into
+a negotiation in place of marching on. Do you know what I should
+have taken if I had marched on? I should have taken his convoy; I
+should have made one razzia the more; I should have been able to
+report that I had taken the tent of Abdel Kader, his carpet, his
+harem, perhaps one of his Khalifas; but he, with his cavalry, would
+have gone into the desert.</p>
+
+<p>“The Emir made a voluntary abdication; and France,<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_267">[267]</span> after having thrown the whole
+weight of its brave armies upon Algeria, saw the chief who had
+preached, excited, and conducted the Holy War, come in the end, and
+voluntarily deposit his arms in the hands of the Governor-General.
+For France, this was at once a military, a political, and a moral
+triumph. The effect produced by it among the natives was immense,
+and its consequences have yet to be developed.</p>
+
+<p>“Abdel Kader is the incarnation of a principle—of a great
+religious sentiment; and in Algeria this is the only political
+sentiment which unites the population. This principle manifested
+itself in the Holy War. It had the same force which legitimacy
+formerly possessed amongst us. When a man by the prestige of the
+past, by his belief, by his eloquence, by the battles he has
+fought, and by the successes he has gained, has become the living
+representative of an idea profoundly agitating the masses, an
+immense danger is incurred as long as he is left in his
+country.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had moved on to the village of Triaret. His
+emissaries returned. He convoked his men to deliberate on the
+answer which he had received. It was remarked that the promise
+given by the French general was merely verbal; and, although the
+value of the answer was acknowledged, supported as it was by the
+transmission of the general’s sword and the seal of one of his
+officers, yet it was considered only prudent, when a decision of
+such vital importance to all was to be taken, that a further
+guarantee should be claimed.</p>
+
+<p>The rain having ceased, Abdel Kader now wrote a letter to
+Lamoricière, stating his demands, and again dispatched his
+emissaries to seek him out. The general had already communicated
+the important transaction to the Duc<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_268">[268]</span> D’Aumale, the new Governor-General, who
+happened to be in the immediate neighbourhood. On receiving Abdel
+Kader’s letter, he had addressed his Royal Highness as
+follows:—</p>
+
+<p>“I have been obliged to make engagements; I have made them, and
+I have done so with the fullest confidence that your Royal Highness
+and the Government will ratify them if the Emir relies on my
+word.</p>
+
+<p>“I am this instant mounting my horse to go to the Deira. I have
+no time to send you a copy of the letter which I have received from
+the Emir, or of my reply to it. Suffice it for me to state, that I
+have only <em>promised and stipulated</em> that the Emir and his
+family shall be conducted to St. Jean d’Acre or Alexandria. These
+are the only two places which I have mentioned. They are those
+which he designated in his demand, and which I have accepted.”</p>
+
+<p>With a written stipulation in his possession, in entire
+compliance with his own terms, Abdel Kader had no further cause for
+hesitation or delay. On the morning of the 23rd of December he
+proceeded, accompanied by such of his chiefs and followers as had
+decided on sharing his fortunes in a foreign land, to the marabout
+(or temple) of Sidi Ibrahim. There he was received by Colonel
+Montauban, at the head of 500 cavalry, with all the respect,
+sympathy, and consideration due to his exalted rank, to the
+recollection of his past glorious deeds, and to the spectacle of
+his present heavy and severe misfortune.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader begged for permission to be allowed to enter the
+sacred edifice. On this request being granted, he dismounted, and,
+on reaching the door, took off his sword, and<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_269">[269]</span> gave it to one of his attendants. His
+military career had ended. Hitherto his life had been devoted to
+God and his country. Henceforth it was to be devoted to God alone.
+After having been an hour engaged in prayer, he came forth, and the
+whole cavalcade at once moved on.</p>
+
+<p>At six o’clock in the evening it reached Djemma Ghazouat, the
+head-quarters of the Duc D’Aumale. A few minutes afterwards Abdel
+Kader, accompanied by General de Lamoricière, General Cavaignac,
+and Colonel Beaufort, was presented to his Royal Highness. After a
+moment’s pause he pronounced the following words:—“I had wished to
+have done what I am doing this day at an earlier period. I awaited
+the hour destined by God. The general has given me a word on which
+I fully rely. I am not afraid that it will be broken by the son of
+a great king like the King of the French.”</p>
+
+<p>The Prince, in a few clear and explicit words, pledged himself
+that the general’s word and engagements should be strictly
+observed. Abdel Kader then withdrew and went to his Deira, which
+had recently joined the French encampment.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning the Duc D’Aumale held a review. Abdel Kader,
+riding a magnificent black charger of the purest Arab breed, and
+surrounded by his chiefs, awaited his return from the field. On his
+Royal Highness approaching he dismounted, and advancing to his
+side, said, “I offer you this horse, the last which I have mounted.
+It has been a great favourite, but now we must part. It is a
+testimony of my gratitude, and I hope it may always carry you in
+safety and happiness.” “I accept it,” replied the Prince, “as a
+homage rendered to France, the protection of which
+country<span class="pagenum" id="Page_270">[270]</span> will
+henceforth be ever extended towards you; and as a sign that the
+past is forgotten.”</p>
+
+<p>On the 25th December, 1847, Abdel Kader, his family and
+followers, embarked in the <em>Asmodeus</em> frigate for Toulon.
+All his personal effects, his baggage, his tents, his horses,
+mules, and camels, had previously been sold by the French
+authorities for 6,000 francs. But even this paltry sum was
+afterwards only doled out to him in instalments, and a strict
+investigation was even instituted as to the manner in which each
+instalment was disbursed. General de Lamoricière accompanied him on
+board, and generously made him a present of 4,000 francs. Abdel
+Kader, in return, gave him his sword.</p>
+
+<p>The sensations of joy and triumph excited in France at the news
+of Abdel Kader’s surrender were unbounded. Algeria could at last
+and with truth be styled “a French colony.” The <em>Moniteur</em>
+of January 3rd, 1848, thus alludes to the welcome
+intelligence:—“The subjugation of Abdel Kader is an event of
+immense importance to France. It assures the tranquillity of our
+conquest. It permits us sensibly to reduce the quota of men and
+money which we have been sending for so many years to Africa. It
+contributes, from this fact alone, to augment the force of France
+in Europe. <em>To-day, France can, if necessary, transport to other
+quarters the hundred thousand men which held the conquered
+populations under her yoke</em>.”</p>
+
+<p>What a tribute are these words to the genius and ascendancy of
+one man!</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_271">[271]</span><a id=
+"c21"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1847-1848.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Abdel Kader</span> arrived at
+Toulon the last week in December, 1847. A few hours, or days at
+most, he thought, would suffice for any arrangement which might
+still be necessary to facilitate his departure for the East. He was
+invited to disembark, though no preparations whatever had been made
+to receive him.</p>
+
+<p>To his surprise, he and his family, and followers, eighty-eight
+in all, were marched up to a fortress—the Fortress of Lamalgue. He
+remonstrated. He was told not to be alarmed; and it was explained
+to him that a certain time was necessary for the requisite
+correspondence, either with the Turkish Government, if he was to be
+sent to St. Jean d’Acre, or with the Egyptian Government, if he was
+to be sent to Alexandria; and that then he could be allowed to
+proceed to his place of destination.</p>
+
+<p>The day after his imprisonment a French officer demanded an
+interview. General Daumas came, officially charged by the King of
+the French, to make him the most brilliant offers, if he would only
+consent to forego the solemn word which had been given him by
+General Lamoricière and the Duc D’Aumale when he surrendered. He
+was offered a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_272">[272]</span>
+splendid position in France—a royal château, a guard of honour, and
+all the pomp and appurtenances of a prince.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader listened to the shameful proposal in contemptuous
+silence. Being pressed for a reply, his countenance flashed up, and
+fixing his eagle eye on his old friend, he said with warmth, “Have
+you ceased to know me? What! is it you who thus speaks to me? Your
+diplomatic talents, I have no doubt, are very useful to France; but
+I intreat you not to expend them thus uselessly on me.”</p>
+
+<p>Then, taking up a corner of his burnous with both hands, and
+leaning towards the window, he exclaimed, “If you were to bring me,
+on the part of your King, all the wealth of France in millions and
+in diamonds, and it were possible to place them all in the fold of
+my burnous, I would throw them on the instant into the sea which
+washes my prison walls, rather than give you back the word which
+has been so solemnly given me. That word I will carry with me to my
+grave. I am your guest. Make me your prisoner if you will; but the
+shame and ignominy will be with you, not with me.”</p>
+
+<p>He was asked if he would like to go to Paris. “I know,” he
+replied, “that Ibrahim Pacha lately visited it, and admired its
+wonders. But France was to him a land of hospitality. He was free!
+As for me, as long as I remain a prisoner, all France is but a
+dungeon. I have no wish to be a victim crowned with garlands.”</p>
+
+<p>Patient and resigned himself, Abdel Kader infused his followers
+with the same spirit. They had hitherto been his subjects,
+accustomed to approach him with all the deference and respect due
+to royalty. They were now his companions.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_273">[273]</span> A common calamity had levelled all
+barriers. He placed his little means at their disposal, too happy
+if he could in any way contribute to their wants and alleviate
+their sufferings. “In the position in which I am now placed,” he
+said, “I must do as my ancestors have done. I can no longer say,
+‘My horse, my burnous, my goods;’ but ‘Our horse, our burnous, our
+goods.’”</p>
+
+<p>One day General Daumas came to visit him. It was in the depth of
+winter. Abdel Kader was without a fire. The general expressed his
+surprise. “My wood,” he replied, “was finished yesterday, and I
+could not bring myself to ask any of my companions to spare me some
+of theirs. Poor fellows! in place of taking from them, I wish it
+were always in my power to bestow.” “You are not, then, like those
+great chiefs who seem to take a pleasure in exhausting their
+people,” remarked General Daumas. “If I had resembled such rulers,”
+was the reply of Abdel Kader, “would the Arabs have sustained the
+struggle with you so long as they did, and sacrificed everything to
+uphold me?”</p>
+
+<p>Day after day passed, and still there came no orders for his
+release. A painful uncertainty agitated his mind. At one time
+Colonel Beaufort, the Duc D’Aumale’s aide-de-camp, assured him, on
+the part of the Prince, that the King had resolved that the
+stipulation made with him should be fulfilled. At another time he
+was told that the Chamber of Deputies had called its validity in
+question.</p>
+
+<p>On the 28th of February, 1848, Abdel Kader got the news of the
+revolution, of the abdication of the king, of the proclamation of
+the Republic. He saw at once the immense import of that event to
+his own prospects, and felt himself to<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_274">[274]</span> be the sport of a capricious fortune. With
+the new Government he had no bond. He could no longer plead for the
+sanctity of treaties, of honour, of good faith. He could not expect
+an act of generosity, he felt, when he had failed to obtain common
+justice.</p>
+
+<p>The sudden crash of a monarchy, hitherto supposed to be fixed on
+a solid and enduring basis, was to him an apposite spectacle. He
+moralised to those around him on the worthlessness and instability
+of human grandeur. “Behold,” he said to General Daumas, “behold a
+Sultan who was everywhere esteemed great and powerful, who had
+contracted alliances with other sovereigns, who had a numerous
+family to perpetuate his line, who was renowned for his wisdom and
+experience! A day has sufficed to overthrow him. Am I not right in
+my conviction that there is no other real force, no truth and no
+reality, but in the will of God? Believe me, this world is a
+carcass; dogs only quarrel over it.”</p>
+
+<p>He received a visit from M. Olivier, Commissary-General of the
+Provisional Government. The great Republic had deigned to think of
+its captive. But it approached him not as a Paladin, chivalrously
+determined to redeem French honour, but as a suppliant, trembling
+at the magic of a name which, even in its collapse, was of ominous
+import to French dominion. He was asked what guarantees he could
+give to France that he would not appear again in Algeria.</p>
+
+<p>“I have no other guarantee to give of my unchangeable resolution
+for the future,” he replied, “but that which I have already given.
+If I had not wished to surrender I should not have been here. I
+came to you freely and voluntarily. This guarantee is worth all
+others.” “Would you<span class="pagenum" id="Page_275">[275]</span>
+sign with your hand,” pursued the delegate, “and will the chiefs
+who are around you sign with their hands, a document sworn to on
+the Koran, by which you solemnly declare that you will never appear
+again in Algeria, or mix yourselves up, directly or indirectly, in
+its affairs?” “Such a document I would sign with my eyes, if my
+hands were not sufficient.” Abdel Kader was then asked to address a
+letter to the Provisional Government, enclosing a document to that
+effect. He penned and forwarded the following <em>précis</em>:—</p>
+
+<p>“Praise be to the one God, whose empire alone is
+everlasting.</p>
+
+<p>“To the upholders of the Republic which governs France, and who
+are, with regard to it, as the eyes and limbs are to the body.</p>
+
+<p>“Sidi Olivier, your commissioner, has been to see me. He has
+informed me that the French, with one accord, have abolished
+royalty, and have decreed that their country shall henceforward be
+a Republic.</p>
+
+<p>“I was rejoiced at the news, for I have read in books that such
+a form of government has for its object to root out injustice, and
+to prevent the strong from doing violence to the weak. You are
+generous men. You desire the good of all; and your acts are
+expected to be dictated by the spirit of justice. God has appointed
+you to be the protectors of the unhappy and afflicted. I look to
+you, therefore, as my natural protectors. Remove the veil of grief
+which has been thrown over me. I seek justice at your hands.</p>
+
+<p>“That which I have done not one of you can condemn. I defended
+my country and my religion as long as I could; and I am persuaded
+that, as noble-minded men, you cannot<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_276">[276]</span> but applaud me. When I was conquered—when
+it was impossible for me any longer to doubt that God, for
+inscrutable reasons, had withdrawn his support from me—I decided to
+withdraw from the world. It was then, when I could have found an
+asylum with perfect ease amongst the Berbers, or the tribes of the
+Sahara, that I consented to place myself in the hands of the
+French.</p>
+
+<p>“I was convinced that when once they promised to do so, they
+would convey me to the country whither I declared it my wish to go.
+It was with this conviction that I selected France wherein to put
+my trust; for the word of France up to this day has been held to be
+inviolable. I demanded from General Lamoricière that I should be
+conveyed to Alexandria, without touching at Oran, or Algiers, or
+any port in France.</p>
+
+<p>“To this demand he not only gave a verbal adhesion, but sent me
+a letter solemnly guaranteeing the fulfilment of my wish, signed
+with his name in French, and sealed with his Arabic seal. When this
+letter reached me, believing the word of the French was
+<em>one</em>, I gave myself up into his hands. At present this
+belief is shaken. Confirm me in it by giving me my liberty. You
+have accomplished a work which promises to confer happiness on all.
+Let me not be a solitary exception.</p>
+
+<p>“Often have I said to myself, ‘Had the French taken me prisoner
+in battle, they would have treated me well; for they are brave and
+generous, and know how to hold the balance between the conqueror
+and the conquered.’ Well, I have not been made prisoner. I gave
+myself up of my own free will. Some of you may imagine that,
+regretting the step I took, I<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_277">[277]</span> still harbour thoughts of returning to
+Algeria. That can never be. I may actually be numbered amongst the
+dead. My sole wish is to be allowed to go to Mecca and Medina,
+there to worship and adore the all-powerful God, until He calls me
+to Him.</p>
+
+<p>“Receive my salutations.</p>
+
+<p class="right pad-right2">“<span class="sc">Abdel Kader ibn
+Mehi-ed-Deen</span>.</p>
+
+<div class="sign">
+<p>“9 <em>Rebia il Oual</em>, 1264.<br>
+“<em>March</em>, 1848.”</p>
+</div>
+
+<p class="space-above15">Within this letter was enclosed the
+document demanded at his hands. It ran as follows:—</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15">“Praise be to the One God.</p>
+
+<p>“I give you a sacred word which cannot be doubted.</p>
+
+<p>“I declare that I will never henceforward excite troubles
+against the French, either in person, or by letters, or by any
+other means whatsoever.</p>
+
+<p>“I make this oath before God, by Mohammed (praise and salutation
+be to him), by Abraham, Moses, and Jesus Christ; by the Pentateuch,
+the Gospel, and the Koran. I make this oath with my heart as well
+as with my hand and tongue.</p>
+
+<p>“This oath is binding on me and on my companions, one hundred
+and more in number; on those who sign this document, and on those
+who sign it not, being unable to write.</p>
+
+<p>“Salutation from <span class="sc">Abdel Kader ibn
+Mehi-ed-Deen</span>.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">Abdel Kader felt assured that these
+documents, having been officially demanded, would prove the
+immediate prelude to his release. The dawn of each successive day
+was hailed as the harbinger of liberty. At last the anxiously
+expected<span class="pagenum" id="Page_278">[278]</span> answer
+arrived. It was opened with impatience. Its substance was, that
+“the Republic considered itself bound by no obligation to Abdel
+Kader, and that it took him as the previous Government had left
+him—a prisoner.”</p>
+
+<p>The bitter mockery pierced Abdel Kader to the heart. He sunk
+into the deepest despondency. Life was a burden to him, he
+declared. General Daumas approached him with words of consolation.
+“How can you be surprised,” he exclaimed in reply, with mournful
+earnestness, “that my resignation should falter before the
+greatness of my calamity? My family, my followers, are in despair.
+My aged mother and the women of my household weep night and day,
+and no longer credit the hope I am obliged to hold out to them.</p>
+
+<p>“What do I say? Not only the women, but the men, give way to
+lamentations. Their state is such, that I am persuaded if our
+captivity is much prolonged, many will die. And it is I who am the
+cause of all this misery! I alone persisted in surrendering to the
+French. None of them willingly consented to it. You have, indeed,
+made me a deceiver; and now they all reproach me for my confidence
+in you.</p>
+
+<p>“Is there no tribunal in France especially charged to hear the
+cries and reclamations of the injured? Call together all your
+Ulemas, and I undertake to convince them of my rights. Ah! the
+Republic is far different from that Sultan who, having become deaf,
+was seen to weep; and being asked the cause of his tears, replied,
+‘I weep because I can no longer hear the complaints of the
+distressed and afflicted.’”</p>
+
+<p>An order came for the removal of the prisoners to the Château of
+Pau. They arrived there April 20th, 1848. The<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_279">[279]</span> authorities had been informed that
+English agents were in the neighbourhood seeking to facilitate
+Abdel Kader’s escape. The windows of the château were barred with
+iron. Sentinels paced under them night and day.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader smiled inwardly at all these precautions. The season
+of suspense was over. He felt himself a prisoner for life, and he
+stoically reconciled himself to his fate. A severe self-control
+disciplined his hitherto tempestuous emotions. The magnanimity of
+his soul resumed its wonted ascendancy. In a man possessing the
+mental energy and resources of Abdel Kader, there could be no such
+feeling as that of solitude. But the outer world now pressed on
+him. He accepted its diversion as a duty rather than a pleasure.
+Crowds from all parts of France knocked at the portals of the
+château. Impelled by mingled feelings of curiosity, sympathy, and
+admiration, statesmen, diplomatists, and warriors, vied with each
+other in doing homage to the august prisoner in his misfortunes.
+Abdel Kader was obliged to hold levees, which sometimes lasted for
+hours.</p>
+
+<p>All were charmed with the loftiness and originality of his
+observations, the delicacy of his allusions, the felicity of his
+compliments. Above all, they were astonished to find that, so far
+from upbraiding those who had been the cause of his severe trial,
+he seemed to take a pleasure in suggesting extenuating
+circumstances for their conduct, and in endeavouring to relieve
+them of the burden of their treason and their shame.</p>
+
+<p>General Daumas was his constant attendant. The general
+impression respecting Abdel Kader may be gathered from the
+following letter, addressed by the General to
+Monseigneur<span class="pagenum" id="Page_280">[280]</span> Dupuch,
+the Bishop of Algiers:—“You are going to see the illustrious
+prisoner of the Château of Pau. Oh! you will certainly not regret
+your journey. You have known Abdel Kader in his prosperity, at a
+time when, so to speak, all Algeria acknowledged his rule. Well,
+you will find him greater and more extraordinary in his adversity
+than he was in his prosperity. Still, as ever, he towers to the
+height of his position.</p>
+
+<p>“You will find him mild, simple, affectionate, modest, resigned,
+never complaining; excusing his enemies—even those at whose hands
+he may yet have much to suffer—and never permitting evil to be
+spoken of them in his presence. Mussulmans and Christians alike,
+however justly he might complain of them, have found his
+forgiveness. He throws the conduct of the former on the force of
+circumstances. The safety and honour of the flag under which they
+fought explains that of the latter. In going to console such a
+noble, such an exalted character, you will add another work of
+sanctity to those by which your life is already distinguished.”</p>
+
+<p>The Christian bishop and the Arab chief had long been bound by
+ties of common fellowship in deeds of mercy and compassion; and
+Abdel Kader selected his magnanimous coadjutor in the convention of
+Sidi Khalifa as the depository of his inmost thoughts and
+reflections. His correspondence with the bishop was constant and
+unremitting.</p>
+
+<p>Latterly he wrote, “As you may have discovered in the mirrors of
+our conversation, I was not born to be a warrior. It seems to me I
+ought never to have been one for a single day. Yet I have borne
+arms all my life. Mysterious are the<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_281">[281]</span> designs of Providence! It was only by a
+wholly unforeseen concourse of circumstances that I suddenly found
+myself thrown so completely out of the career pointed out to me by
+my birth, my education, and my predilection—a career which, as you
+well know, I ardently long to resume, and to which I never cease
+praying to God to allow me to return, now at the close of my
+laborious years.”</p>
+
+<p>A record of all the remarks made by Abdel Kader to his numerous
+visitors would require in themselves a volume. Not one left him
+without carrying away and treasuring up some charming efflorescence
+of his facile and comprehensive intellect. A distinguished advocate
+assured him of the sympathies of an influential statesman. “I
+believe there is a little fire of affection for me in his heart,”
+replied Abdel Kader; “but do not let that prevent you from
+supplying it at times with fuel.”</p>
+
+<p>When grasping simultaneously the hand of a priest and that of an
+officer, he remarked, “I like such visits and such faces, because
+one knows you at the first glance. Yours is the double uniform of
+devoted souls and generous hearts.”</p>
+
+<p>To a numerous company he once said, “I see around me kind and
+amiable people, who are pleased to extol the few good qualities
+which I possess by the favour of Heaven; but I fear there is no
+real friend here to tell me of my defects, which are much more
+numerous.”</p>
+
+<p>“I am often afraid for you,” said the Archbishop of Tours, “when
+I think of the rigour of our climate.” “It is true your climate is
+cold, but the warmth of your reception makes me forget it,” was the
+reply of Abdel Kader.</p>
+
+<p>On receiving a colonel at the head of his staff, he
+said,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_282">[282]</span> “I thank you,
+colonel, I am deeply touched by your visit, and that of your brave
+companions. You have fought me bravely in Africa, and vanquished
+me. I adore the designs of God. Your present visit shows me that
+you think that I also did my duty; but of that you are the best
+judges. Again I thank you. After all, without alluding to any in
+particular, there ought to be many an officer in the French army
+who should be grateful to me, since but for me many a colonel would
+be still a captain, and many a general a colonel.”</p>
+
+<p>To a statesman he thus generously expressed himself:—“I am not
+irritated at the previous delays in the execution of the convention
+between me and General de Lamoricière. I know well that in the
+actual position of France it would be indiscreet and importunate in
+me to press the matter too strongly. I only beg not to be
+overlooked too long.”</p>
+
+<p>A beautiful <em>bouquet</em> having been presented to him by
+some ladies, he addressed them in the following strain of Eastern
+compliment, “In looking at this, and inhaling the perfume of so
+many lovely flowers, I seem to see a symbol of your hearts, and to
+breathe their delicious odours.”</p>
+
+<p>The continued succession of visitors at last fatigued him. He
+begged that the hours of reception might be restricted. All beheld
+the serenity, the cheerfulness of his aspect with wonder and
+astonishment; but who could fathom the inward and silent sufferings
+of that ardent and impassioned soul, which had worn itself out to
+absolute exhaustion during fifteen years, in contending bravely for
+its country’s independence; which had only consented to relinquish
+the sacred struggle in order to save the domestic hearth; and which
+now,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_283">[283]</span> far from both
+home and country, saw all those most dear to it gradually sinking
+under the slow and lingering agony of imprisonment and exile?</p>
+
+<p>Still, as the illustrious captive sought to fortify his spirits
+by those religious exercises and consolations which had been his
+life-long strength and support, the waters of affliction rose
+around him. In vain he strove to propitiate Heaven by penitential
+abnegation, by the most rigorous fasts, by the most persevering
+prayers. A remorseless fate seemed as it were commissioned to hold
+him in its iron grasp. Death was almost daily ravishing from him
+the dearest objects of his love and solicitude.</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely were his eyes dried from weeping over such of his
+faithful companions as had expired in his arms, than they were bent
+with feverish anxiety on those whom he still saw before him sinking
+under the complicated ravages of disease, melancholy, and despair.
+After having wept over a son, a daughter, a nephew of the brightest
+hopes, he trembled for his mother and mother-in-law, whose advanced
+age and infirmities seemed more especially to mark them out as the
+next victims.</p>
+
+<p>But despite all these cruel trials, Abdel Kader maintained an
+unshaken equanimity of look and demeanour. His words never ceased
+to breathe the spirit of heroic resignation. A sympathising voice
+once reproached him for his pious austerities. “Why,” he replied,
+with a melancholy smile, “why grudge me the consolation and hope of
+thus rendering my prayers less unworthy to Him to whom I pour them
+out from the bottom of my heart, and who yet, perhaps, one of these
+days, may answer them from his throne on<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_284">[284]</span> High?” With Job he seemed to exclaim,
+“Though He slay me, yet will I put my trust in Him.”</p>
+
+<p>Such saint-like simplicity of character, such humility, such
+almost feminine grace and gentleness, combined as they were in
+Abdel Kader with all the lion-like qualities which exalt and
+dignify the manly nature, composed a <em>beau-ideal</em> of moral
+and physical grandeur, which involuntarily extorted enthusiastic
+reverence and adoration. The extraordinary fascination which he
+exercised on all around him, whether resplendent with the flashing
+of thousands of sabres unsheathed around him at his command, or
+enveloped in a prison’s gloom, is attested by instances of devotion
+and attachment too numerous to be mentioned.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had left Algeria for ever, but the magic spell of
+his name still remained, and it remains to this day. When some Arab
+chiefs, after the surrender of the Sultan, visited the stables of
+the French authorities at Mostaganem, the last person in the minds
+of the latter was probably Abdel Kader, of whose ominous presence
+they had been happily relieved. To their surprise they saw the Arab
+chiefs throwing themselves frantically on a splendid black
+stallion, kissing its neck, its shoulders, its very feet. It had
+been Abdel Kader’s charger. “It has borne him! it has borne him!”
+was the repeated outburst of their irrepressible feelings, and with
+difficulty they were torn away.</p>
+
+<p>When Kara Mohammed, Abdel Kader’s equerry, and his inseparable
+companion in all his battles, dangers, and reverses, looked on a
+porter at the gates of the château still wearing the royal livery,
+he could not help exclaiming, “What! your master is in England and
+you here! We<span class="pagenum" id="Page_285">[285]</span> would
+cross mountains and seas to follow our master to the ends of the
+earth. In receiving his benefits we are bound to him for life and
+death.”</p>
+
+<p>Notwithstanding all Abdel Kader’s efforts and exhortations, his
+followers gave way to a hopeless despondency. These sons of the
+desert, to whom the boundless plains of the Sahara had been a home
+and the distant horizon the only limit, languished and pined away
+in their novel and dreary abode. The iron had entered into their
+soul.</p>
+
+<p>At last an order came for their release. The bearer of the news
+expected to be hailed with cries of joy and delight. “No, no!” they
+all with one accord exclaimed, “while <em>he</em> is a captive,
+none of us will separate our lot from his!”</p>
+
+<p>“But your master is going to be removed to another fortress,”
+was the answer, “where you will be even more strictly confined than
+at present.”</p>
+
+<p>“Never mind,” was the general cry. “What signifies? We are
+willing to suffer more if necessary: but quit <em>him</em> in his
+misfortune we never will.”</p>
+
+<p>In the month of June, 1848, General de Lamoricière was appointed
+Minister of War. Abdel Kader now anticipated with certainty the
+near approach of his deliverance. The man who had pledged his word
+to him was in power. In the pressure of public affairs, however,
+Abdel Kader feared he might be overlooked. He hastened, therefore,
+to address the general a letter, in which he solemnly abjured him
+to vindicate his own honour, as well as the national honour of
+France. Days, weeks, months elapsed, and no answer was
+vouchsafed.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader maintained his usual imperturbability; but his
+Algerines became furious. They formed a conspiracy to<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_286">[286]</span> fall on their guard, unarmed
+as they were, kill as many as they could, and taste in a desperate
+self-sacrifice the sweetness of revenge. “We thought not of
+escape,” they afterwards avowed. “We wanted to die, that our blood
+might be an eternal shame to France, inasmuch as we should have
+been slain for reclaiming the execution of the promise made to our
+master.” Abdel Kader, duly averted of this mad design, interposed
+in time to thwart it.</p>
+
+<p>The Minister of War was also apprised of it. He dreaded a
+catastrophe. He sent an officer to the despairing and overtortured
+captives, with an offer of freedom. It was then they returned the
+noble and sublime answer already recorded. On the 2nd November,
+1848, they voluntarily followed their beloved master to the Château
+of Amboise.</p>
+
+<p>An order had preceded them. Neither Abdel Kader nor any of his
+suite was to be allowed to have intercourse with persons from
+without. They were neither to be permitted to receive nor to write
+letters. The privilege of freely receiving visitors was to be taken
+from them. No applicant for an interview was to be granted his
+request without an especial permission from the Minister of
+War.</p>
+
+<p>This order was signed “De Lamoricière!”</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_287">[287]</span><a id=
+"c22"></a>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1848-1853.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Although</span> the republican
+Government of France had acquiesced in the perpetration of this
+glaring act of perfidy to Abdel Kader, the President of the
+Republic raised his voice in vindication of the cause of right and
+justice. On the 14th of January, 1849, twenty-four days after his
+election to the presidency, Louis Napoleon convened an
+extraordinary council to take the subject into consideration.</p>
+
+<p>In the warmest terms he pleaded the prisoner’s cause. He
+insisted on the voluntary surrender, the frank and noble reliance
+on French honour on the one hand, and the word pledged and the
+convention signed on the other. Such language, emanating from the
+heir of the illustrious captive of St. Helena, had more than the
+weight of a protest; it had in some respects the sanctity of a
+reminiscence. Though supported by Bugeaud and Changarnier, the
+President’s views were overruled. The Minister of War, General
+Rulhière, refused to incur the responsibility of sanctioning the
+release of Abdel Kader, and successfully opposed such a step.</p>
+
+<p>Animated by feelings of esteem and sympathy for his fallen
+adversary, Marshal Bugeaud now wrote Abdel Kader a letter
+suggesting a course which, while it would diminish the
+bitter<span class="pagenum" id="Page_288">[288]</span> sense of
+captivity, would assure him an easy and even enviable
+existence:—</p>
+
+<p>“I would wish you to decide on adopting France as your country,
+and to ask the Government to make you a grant of property, with
+right of descent to your heirs. You would thus have a position
+equal to that of our most influential men, and be able to practise
+your religion, and bring up your children according to your
+wishes.</p>
+
+<p>“I am aware such a prospect may have little in it to seduce you;
+but it is one which ought to weigh with you, for the future of your
+children, and the fate of the numerous persons who surround you.
+You see they are languishing and dying of <em>ennui</em>. Were they
+employed on a property belonging to you, their mode of life, on the
+contrary, would be pleasant and agreeable. The cultivation of the
+soil would amuse them; they might have the diversion of sporting.
+The pursuits of agriculture would daily offer them fresh subjects
+of interest; and nothing tends more to cheer the spirits than the
+sight of nature elaborated by man’s own exertions.</p>
+
+<p>“Such is the sincere advice I give you, dictated by the feelings
+of extraordinary interest which your misfortunes, and the great
+qualities with which you have been endowed by God, has raised
+within me.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was inflexible. He steadily persisted in refusing to
+hear of any compromise; and he thus replied:—“If all the treasures
+of the world were laid out before me, and it was proposed to put
+them in the balance with my liberty, I would choose my liberty. I
+demand neither grace nor favour. I demand the execution of the
+engagements which have been made with me.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_289">[289]</span>“I demanded, as
+the condition of my surrender, the word of a Frenchman. A French
+general gave it me without restriction and without conditions.
+Another general, the King’s son, confirmed it. France was thus
+bound to me as I to her. To desire to obliterate the past is now to
+desire an impossibility. I will not give you back your word. I will
+die with it to your eternal disgrace and dishonour; kings and
+people will then learn, from my example, what confidence is to be
+placed in the word of a Frenchman.”</p>
+
+<p>The question of Abdel Kader’s liberation was now to all
+appearance postponed indefinitely. He himself ceased to allude to
+it. He found consolation in his books, his studies, and devotions.
+His hours were so strictly appropriated to their respective duties,
+that time passed lightly. He now occupied himself with literary
+composition.</p>
+
+<p>Two works, one on the “Unity of the Godhead,” another entitled
+“Hints for the Wise, Instruction for the Ignorant,” were the fruits
+of his mental labours. The first-mentioned work is a collation and,
+at the same time, an able exposition of all the arguments which
+support and elucidate that vital doctrine of the Mohammedan faith.
+The latter is divided into three parts. The first part treats of
+the advantages of learning; the second, of religion and morality;
+the third, of the art of writing and general science.</p>
+
+<p>Although Abdel Kader had permission to take exercise in the park
+which surrounded his prison, he never availed himself of the
+privilege. Indeed, he rarely left his apartment, except to repair
+to the room where his family and suite assembled for prayer. His
+medical man urged the necessity of out-door exercise. “No health,”
+he replied, “can come to me within<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_290">[290]</span> the bounds of a prison. What I want is the
+air of liberty; that alone can revive me.”</p>
+
+<p>Time creeped on. At last came a change as joyful as it was
+unexpected. Louis Napoleon, disgusted with the party jealousies
+which thwarted his measures, had appealed to the national
+sentiment. He showed himself to France. He visited the provinces.
+On arriving at Blois, he sent word to M. Boissonet, who commanded
+in the Château of Amboise, situated not far distant from that town,
+that it was his intention to pay Abdel Kader a visit.</p>
+
+<p>The ultimate design of the Prince President in making this visit
+had been surmised by the general officers and ministers of state
+who were around him. St. Arnaud and others tendered him their
+counsels, and suggested caution. But the Prince was resolute. The
+necessity of vindicating the national honour, too long tarnished by
+breach of faith, prevailed in his mind over every other
+consideration. On the 16th of October, 1852, the Prince and his
+suite drove in carriage to the Château of Amboise.</p>
+
+<p>On the way he had written out in pencil the following
+document:—</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">“<span class="sc">Abdel Kader</span>,</p>
+
+<p class="pad4">“I am come to announce to you your liberty. You
+will be conducted to Broussa, in the Sultan’s territory, as soon as
+the necessary arrangements can be made. The French Government will
+give you a pension worthy of your former rank.</p>
+
+<p>“For a long time your captivity has caused me real distress. It
+constantly reminded me that the Government which
+preceded<span class="pagenum" id="Page_291">[291]</span> mine had
+not fulfilled its engagements towards an unfortunate enemy; and in
+my eyes a great nation is humiliated, when it so far mistrusts its
+own power as to break its promise. Generosity is always the best
+counsellor; and I am convinced that your residence in Turkey will
+in nowise affect the tranquillity of my possessions in Africa.</p>
+
+<p>“Your religion, as well as mine, inculcates submission to the
+decree of Providence. Now, if France is supreme in Algeria, it is
+because God has so willed it; and the nation will never renounce
+the conquest. You have been the enemy of France, but I nevertheless
+am ready to do ample justice to your courage, your character, and
+your resignation in misfortune. I, consequently, feel it to be a
+point of honour to put an end to your imprisonment, and to
+entertain a complete reliance on your word.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">Overpowered with gratitude, Abdel Kader
+poured forth his heartfelt thanks. His aged mother begged to be
+allowed to see the generous and noble-minded ruler, who had shed
+such joy and consolation through her household; and on being
+presented to Louis Napoleon, covered him with her benedictions.
+After hastily partaking of the “couscoussu,” the national dish of
+Algeria, the Prince departed. As he disappeared in the distance,
+Abdel Kader turned to his followers and said, “Others have
+overthrown and imprisoned me, but Louis Napoleon alone has
+conquered me.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was now desirous of doing homage to his deliverer in
+the capital. He obtained permission to go to Paris, and arrived
+there October 28th, 1852. A worthy reception had been arranged for
+him by order of the Prince.<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_292">[292]</span> A popular demonstration awaited him. Crowds
+thronged the streets through which he passed, and gazed at him with
+mingled pride and curiosity. The feelings of a warlike people were
+gratified by his presence; but respect for the great military
+renown of the Arab chief was the prevailing motive.</p>
+
+<p>The very evening of his arrival, Abdel Kader was invited to
+visit the Grand Opera. He excused himself at first on account of
+fatigue; but, being told that the Prince was to be there, he
+consented to go. He was conducted to the box in which the Prince
+sat. Abdel Kader stooped to kiss hands, but the Prince, amidst loud
+applause, embraced him. Then, placing the ancient enemy of France
+by his side, he showed him the most marked attention.</p>
+
+<p>An invitation was now given to Abdel Kader to visit the Prince
+President at the palace of St. Cloud; and thither, accordingly, he
+went on the 30th October, accompanied by his equerry Kara Mohammed,
+Ben Allal, nephew of his celebrated Khalifa Sidi Embarak, Sidi
+Kudoor, and a staff of French officers especially deputed to escort
+him. He arrived a few minutes before the time appointed for his
+audience. There was a clock in the waiting room, which he was told
+indicated the exact time of day at Mecca. Delighted with the
+incident, he set his own watch by the time of the Holy City of his
+faith. He found it was exactly the hour for afternoon prayer; and
+in the presence of all assembled he knelt down and prayed.</p>
+
+<p>Shortly afterwards he was presented to the Prince President, who
+stood surrounded by his great officers of state. The ceremony over,
+Abdel Kader asked permission to say a<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_293">[293]</span> few words. Leave having been granted, he
+thus expressed himself, not without considerable emotion.</p>
+
+<p>“Highness, I am not accustomed to your usages. Perhaps I am
+about to commit a fault; but I wish to express my sentiments to
+you, and the exalted personages I see around me. Others have made
+promises which they have not fulfilled. Your Highness has fulfilled
+engagements which you had not contracted. Thanks to your
+generosity, I shall be enabled to go and live in a Mussulman
+country. Words vanish like the winds. Writing is durable. I offer
+your Highness this paper. It contains a written promise.”</p>
+
+<p>He then placed the following declaration in the Prince’s
+hands:—</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15">“Praise be to the One God!</p>
+
+<p>“May God ever continue to protect and preserve our lord, Louis
+Napoleon, and guide and direct his judgment.</p>
+
+<p>“He who presents himself to you is Abdel Kader, the son of
+Mehi-ed-deen. I come before your Highness to thank you for your
+bounties, and to gratify myself with a sight of your countenance.
+You are, in fact, dearer to me than any other friend, for you have
+conferred on me a benefit which exceeds my power of thanking you,
+but which is worthy of the nobleness of your character, and the
+splendour of your position. May God glorify you.</p>
+
+<p>“You are of the number of those who neither make useless
+protestations, nor deceive by falsehood. You have had confidence in
+me. You have not listened to those who mistrust me. You have given
+me liberty; and, without having made me any promises, you have
+fulfilled engagements which others made with me without fulfilling
+them.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_294">[294]</span>“I come then to
+swear to you, by the covenant and promises of God, and by the
+promises of all the prophets and messengers, that I will never do
+anything contrary to the trust you have reposed in me, and that I
+will religiously keep this my oath never to return to Algeria. When
+God ordered me to arise, I arose. I employed gunpowder to the
+utmost extent of my means and ability. But when he ordered me to
+cease, I ceased. It was then that I abandoned power and
+surrendered.</p>
+
+<p>“My religion and my honour alike ordain me to keep my oaths and
+to scorn deceit. I am a <em>shereef</em>, and no one shall ever
+accuse me of treachery. How, indeed, could that be possible to me
+after having received such great benefits at your hands? A benefit
+is a golden chain thrown over the neck of the noble-minded. I
+venture to hope that you will deign to think of me even when I am
+far away, and that you will place me on the list of your intimate
+friends; for although I may not equal them in their services, I at
+least equal them in their affection towards you. May God increase
+the love of those who love you, and strike terror into the hearts
+of your enemies.”</p>
+
+<p>To this solemn protestation Louis Napoleon replied,—</p>
+
+<p>“Abdel Kader, I never mistrusted you. I had no need of this
+written paper which you so nobly offer me. I never demanded from
+you, as you know, either promise or oath. You have chosen,
+nevertheless, to draw up and deliver into my hands this document. I
+accept it. This spontaneous avowal of your sentiments and feelings
+proves to me that I was right in placing unlimited confidence in
+you.”</p>
+
+<p>When the audience was over, Abdel Kader was shown
+all<span class="pagenum" id="Page_295">[295]</span> the apartments
+of the palace, and then taken to see the Prince’s stud. He
+particularly admired a magnificent white Arab horse. “The horse is
+yours,” said the Prince, who was present. “I hope it will make you
+forget that you have been so long without one. You must try it with
+me in the park to-morrow, at a review of cavalry, which I have
+ordered expressly in your honour.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader mounted his new steed the following day, and rode by
+the side of the Prince to the review. To a courteous inquiry from
+the latter as to the health of his aged mother, Abdel Kader replied
+with animation, “During my captivity my mother required a staff to
+bear the weight of her body, bent down with years; but since I am
+free, by your Highness’s generosity, she has thrown off the weight
+of years and walks without support.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was present at another grand review at Versailles.
+He dined with the Prince twice. All the ministers gave him grand
+entertainments, and he daily received visits from statesmen,
+generals, and men of science. He was mostly touched, however, by
+the visits of several officers who had formerly been his prisoners,
+and who had come to thank him for the kindness and attention they
+had received at his hands during their captivity.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader afterwards visited all the public edifices of Paris.
+On entering the church of the Madeleine, he said to the priest who
+accompanied him, “When I first began my struggle with the French I
+thought they were a people without religion. I found out my
+mistake. At all events, such churches as these would soon convince
+me of my error.”</p>
+
+<p>He then asked to be taken to the residence of his
+old<span class="pagenum" id="Page_296">[296]</span> friend M.
+Dupuch, Bishop of Algiers. “Having consecrated my first visit to
+God,” he said, “the next should be to the best of his
+servants.”</p>
+
+<p>Going through the Notre Dame, he stopped to examine all the
+marvels of art and relics which it contains, with an attention
+which, as coming from a Mussulman, surprised the bystanders. Its
+sculptures, its paintings, the mantle worn by Napoleon I. at his
+coronation, and the piece of the true cross given by Baldwin to
+Louis XII., all successively engaged his attention.</p>
+
+<p>On arriving at the Hôtel des Invalides, the first request of
+Abdel Kader was, as usual, to be taken to the church. The temple
+where the Deity was worshipped was invariably the first place to
+which he directed his steps. He viewed with a soldier’s interest
+and satisfaction the numerous flags with which it was adorned.
+Amongst them were some of his own standards. When his eye fell on
+them he gazed on them for a while in silence, and then quietly
+observed, “Those times are past. I wish to forget them. Let us
+always endeavour to live in the present.”</p>
+
+<p>At the tomb of Napoleon he again paused long. At length he
+spoke: “All that the genius of man and the wealth of the world
+could possibly do,” he said, “would be merely to give this tomb a
+pale reflex of that greatness which filled the world with its
+glory.” As he turned away he remarked, “I have now seen what was
+mortal of the great captain; but where is the place where his name
+is not still living?”</p>
+
+<p>The hospital particularly struck him. The patients stood up as
+he passed by. One old soldier had even risen with pain and
+difficulty from his bed, as a mark of respect to the<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_297">[297]</span> great warrior. Abdel Kader
+stopped before him, shook him by the hands, and made him the
+following address:—“How worthy it is of a great people thus to
+watch over the old age of its brave defenders, and to employ the
+best medical advice for the cure of wounds received in the
+country’s defence! I have seen the tomb of Napoleon, and touched
+his sword; and I should leave this place completely happy were it
+not for the thought that there may be some here who have been
+disabled by me or mine. But I only defended my country; and the
+French, who are just and generous, will pardon me, and perhaps
+admit that I was an open and honest enemy, one not altogether
+unworthy of them.”</p>
+
+<p>The Museum of Artillery and the imperial printing establishment
+were the next objects of his inspection. The autographic press
+produced under his very eyes, to his intense astonishment, a
+facsimile of the document he had presented to the Prince. After
+minutely watching the process of printing, and the marvellous
+rapidity with which impressions were thrown off, he exclaimed,
+“Yesterday I saw the batteries of war—here I see the batteries of
+thought.”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had now a parting interview with Louis Napoleon. The
+Prince announced his intention of presenting him with a sword of
+honour. “But,” he added, “I wish it to be worthy of you; and I
+regret that, notwithstanding the diligence of the workmen, I shall
+not be able to give it you before your departure for Broussa.” The
+blade of this sword, which Abdel Kader afterwards received, is of
+the time of the Abassiades, who flourished at the commencement of
+the Mohammedan era. On it have been inscribed the words—“The Sultan
+Napoleon III. to the Emir Abdel Kader, son<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_298">[298]</span> of Mehi-ed-deen.” The next day Abdel Kader
+returned to Amboise.</p>
+
+<p>On the 21st of November the French people were called upon to
+elect an emperor. Abdel Kader claimed the right of suffrage. By a
+singular coincidence, the day was the anniversary of that on which,
+twenty years before, he had himself been elected Sultan of the
+Arabs. His claim was admitted, and a ballot-box was made expressly
+for the occasion. In this box he deposited his own vote and those
+of twelve of his suite.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader returned to Paris to be present at the proclamation
+of the empire. He stood amidst the great officers of state and
+public functionaries who assembled at the Tuileries to offer the
+Emperor their congratulations. As soon as the latter perceived him
+he went up to him, shook him by the hands, and said, “You see your
+vote has brought me good luck.” “Sire,” replied Abdel Kader, “my
+vote is of no value but as it is the interpreter of my heart.”</p>
+
+<p>On the 11th of December, Abdel Kader, with his family and suite,
+left Amboise for the East. The same attention and hospitality which
+had been shown to him in Paris awaited him in all the provincial
+towns through which he passed. At Lyons, the Comte de Castellane
+gave him a splendid reception. A banquet was offered to him, and a
+review of the garrison held in his honour. When Abdel Kader
+approached the lines he was saluted with military honours.
+Delighted with this unexpected mark of respect, he turned to the
+noble marshal who rode by his side, and exclaimed, “The Emperor
+gave me liberty, but you have adorned her with garlands.”</p>
+
+<p>On the 21st of December, Abdel Kader embarked on
+board<span class="pagenum" id="Page_299">[299]</span> the
+<em>Labrador</em> for his final destination. The steamer touched at
+Sicily. He landed, and, attended by the governor, made a tour in
+the interior. He ascended Etna. At his departure he addressed a
+letter of thanks to that officer, in which he thus records his
+impressions of what he had seen:—“We have everywhere met with the
+traces of the various populations who have inhabited your island.
+The sight made us reflect that God is indeed the Lord of the
+universe, and that He gives the land to whom He wills. The mountain
+of fire is truly one of the wonders of the world. On viewing from
+its heights the highly cultivated and thickly populated plains
+which spread out before us, we thought of the Arab poet’s lament on
+the evacuation of Sicily by the Saracens, ‘The recollection of you,
+O plains of Sicily, from the heights of Etna, makes my despair! If
+my tears were not salt, they should make rivers of water for this
+glorious island. An inhabitant of Paradise only is fit to recount
+the wonders of Sicily.’”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader arrived at Constantinople, January 7, 1853. On
+landing he went directly to the grand mosque of Tophané, filled
+with joy and gratitude at finding himself once more in a temple of
+the Prophet. The French ambassador gave a grand entertainment in
+his honour, to which the principal personages of the Frank society
+were invited. This act of hospitality closed the social relations
+of Abdel Kader with the civilised world. During his passage through
+it, his worth, his genius, his honour, had been magnanimously
+recognised in one long ovation. He was now in a capital where
+barbarism is harlequinised into a constrained semblance of European
+civilisation.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_300">[300]</span>He visited the
+Turkish ministers. They received him with ill-feigned
+demonstrations of civility and respect. Policy alone made them
+outwardly courteous. Such is the eradicable arrogance and
+self-sufficiency of the Turks, that they despise all races alike
+but their own. Utter strangers to noble sentiments, and scorning to
+admit the possibility of there being anything in the world more
+important than themselves, they regarded the attentions paid to
+Abdel Kader (despite his glorious struggles for their common faith)
+with jealousy and even derision. His fame oppressed them. An Arab
+hero was, in their minds, an incongruity, an impertinence.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_301">[301]</span><a id=
+"c23"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1853-1860.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">Abdel Kader</span> at length
+sailed from Constantinople for Broussa. The Pasha in that town had
+been ordered by the Turkish Government to place a carriage at his
+disposal, on landing. “What!” said the Turk, “an Arab ride in a
+carriage! Who ever heard of such a thing? Surely there are plenty
+of camels to be had. Why does not the man hire a camel? Is not a
+camel good enough for him?” The Turk was spared the indignity of
+supplying the Arab with a carriage, on account of the simple fact,
+that it was impossible to traverse the road from the landing-place
+to Broussa in any vehicle whatever; and of this fact, the Sublime
+Porte, at a distance of scarcely twenty miles, was profoundly
+ignorant.</p>
+
+<p>Fortunately for Abdel Kader, though thrown amongst the Turks, he
+was in no way obliged to be dependent on them. The munificence of
+Louis Napoleon had largely provided for his wants. The Emperor had
+settled on him a pension for life of £4,000 a year. With Abdel
+Kader’s habits, this income was more than a competence, it was
+superfluity. With such wealth he might have lived in princely
+state, and indulged in ostentation. But he was regulated by other
+principles.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_302">[302]</span>At all times
+averse to self-gratification, Abdel Kader looked upon this liberal
+allowance as a trust; and he considered that after deducting what
+was absolutely necessary for his own expenses, he was bound to
+expend the remainder for the benefit of others. His income now
+enabled him to provide for the wants of many who had nobly refused
+to separate themselves from his fortunes, and even to extend his
+generosity to other quarters. Reserving barely a half for himself
+and family, he disbursed the residue in salaries to his most needy
+chiefs and dependents; in charities to the poor, presents to the
+mosques, and other benevolent purposes. It is to be remarked that
+out of his income he had also to support his two brothers and their
+families.</p>
+
+<p>So averse, indeed, was Abdel Kader to vain and trifling
+expenditure of every sort, that the outlay generally devoted by his
+co-religionists to rejoicings and festivities, at one of their most
+important religious rites, was by him directed to charitable ends.
+On the occasion of the circumcision of one of his sons, the people
+of Broussa were surprised to see, in place of the usual costly
+procession, with all its concomitants of pomp and show—the
+cavalcade, the flags and the music—a vast assemblage of the poor
+congregated in front of his dwelling, and receiving from his own
+hands presents of bread, and clothing, and money. Such was, in the
+eyes of Abdel Kader, the best commemoration of the sacred rite.</p>
+
+<p>The building which the Turkish Government had allotted for his
+residence was an old dilapidated khan, in many parts without a
+roof. With some difficulty he contrived to make it habitable. The
+wildness and gloom of the old ruin were terrible. But he bought a
+small farm in the neighbourhood,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_303">[303]</span> to which he escaped at times to regale
+himself with a sight of the sun and to breathe the fresh air.</p>
+
+<p>His days were passed, as usual, in the education of his
+children, in readings at the mosque, and in private study and
+meditation. Still he felt himself in a land of strangers. Few
+understood his language. Between the Turks and himself there was no
+possible sympathy, and there never could be. The Ulemas amongst
+them envied and disliked him for his superior learning. The
+Effendis, in their supercilious pride, scarcely vouchsafed to
+notice him. The public functionaries, gradually recovering from
+their dread of his widely-spread influence, smiled with inward
+repose and satisfaction, not unmingled with contempt, as they
+congratulated each other on the discovery that the great Arab hero
+was after all only a “derweesh.”</p>
+
+<p>Thus time wore on with him for nearly three years. He secretly
+longed for a change in his place of exile; but he was diffident in
+asking for it. At last, the appalling earthquake which, in 1855,
+nearly laid all Broussa in ruins, afforded him a plea for opening
+the subject, and he hastened to avail himself of the circumstance.
+He obtained permission to go to France. He once more saw the
+Emperor, who graciously acceded to all his wishes. It was arranged
+that for the future his residence should be at Damascus.</p>
+
+<p>Whilst Abdel Kader was in Paris, the news of the fall of
+Sebastopol arrived. He was asked to assist at the celebration of
+the <em>Te Deum</em> in Notre Dame; and he was told that the
+Emperor would be flattered by his presence on the occasion.</p>
+
+<p>Though prostrated by a recent severe illness, he consented to
+go. No small sensation was created amongst the vast<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_304">[304]</span> throng which filled the
+cathedral, as Abdel Kader advanced up to the altar, leaning on the
+arm of a French marshal, and accompanied by other officers of rank.
+On leaving it he was loudly cheered.</p>
+
+<p>The principal aide-de-camp of the Minister of War conducted him
+over the International Exhibition, which on the year of this visit
+made Paris the rendezvous of all the civilised world. After viewing
+all the varied productions which it contained, he paused for a long
+time in perfect astonishment at the marvellous elaborations of
+machinery which expanded in various compartments before his eyes.
+Then he suddenly exclaimed, “Surely this is the temple of reason
+and intelligence, animated by the breath of God.”</p>
+
+<p>After returning to Broussa, where he remained for a few weeks to
+arrange and settle his affairs, he finally embarked on board a
+French steamer, with his family and suite, amounting in all to more
+than one hundred persons, and reached Beyrout, November 24th, 1856;
+and from thence, after a short stay, he proceeded to Damascus.</p>
+
+<p>Midway on his ascent of the Lebanon he was surprised to hear the
+sound of firing, as though a battle were raging close by. Presently
+he saw the heights and slopes covered with large bodies of men,
+keeping up a well-sustained roll of musketry; and then, a compact
+and splendidly attired cavalcade advancing to his encounter. The
+Druzes had assembled to give him a welcome.</p>
+
+<p>Their chiefs, on approaching him, dismounted. He returned the
+compliment. They bowed before him with oriental prostrations, and
+kissed his hand. Then they begged him to do them the honour of
+reposing amongst them, if only for one<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_305">[305]</span> night. He accepted their invitation, and
+found once more a hospitable Eastern home. His heart expanded. He
+was once more amongst the Arabs.</p>
+
+<p>Long and closely did these mountain warriors question him as to
+his campaigns against the French. “If your fame,” they said, “has
+so long raised our spirits and excited our admiration; if it has so
+long rejoiced our hearts to hear of you, how much more must we
+rejoice to see you!” On his leaving the Lebanon he was escorted by
+the Druzes to the frontiers of their territory. After thanking them
+for their courtesy and attention, Abdel Kader parted from them with
+the words, “God grant we may ever remain one!” and the Druzes
+replied, “God grant it! May we soon meet again.”</p>
+
+<p>Another ovation, and on a larger scale, awaited Abdel Kader at
+Damascus. The whole Mohammedan population—men, women, and
+children—turned out to receive him. For more than a mile outside
+the gates the road was lined on either side with all ranks and
+degrees of persons dressed in holiday attire, who had come forth to
+feast their eyes by gazing on the renowned champion and hero of
+Islam. Preceded by a detachment of Turkish troops and a band of
+military music, Abdel Kader passed, almost like a conqueror,
+through the crowd, joyfully returning the unintermittent salaams
+with which he was greeted. No such Arab had entered Damascus since
+the days of Saladin.</p>
+
+<p>The Sultan had ordered a serail to be placed at the disposal of
+Abdel Kader. Luckily for him, the khans were all already fully
+occupied. He only took up his residence in the abode prepared for
+him temporarily, and until he could select and purchase a house for
+himself. The Turkish authorities<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_306">[306]</span> paid no further attention to him. It was
+quite enough for them that they had to endure him. They could not
+lower his rank and position, for an arm was outstretched over him
+stronger than theirs; they could not undermine his influence, for
+his was an ascendancy that defied their malice; they looked upon
+him as a painful and unavoidable anomaly, and succumbed.</p>
+
+<p>Visits and salutations of various kinds soon multiplied upon
+him. Ben Salem, his old and devoted Khalifa, and some hundreds of
+Algerines, who had already obtained permission to settle at
+Damascus, and who proudly swelled his suite as he entered the city,
+now thronged around him day and night, never sufficiently satisfied
+with the sight of their adored Sultan, from whom they had been so
+long separated. The great Arab Effendis offered him the most ardent
+demonstrations of respect.</p>
+
+<p>But it was to the Ulemas and the lettered classes that Abdel
+Kader became the great centre of attraction. By virtue of his
+triple warrant, as descendant of the Prophet, Ulema, and leader of
+the Djehad, he was entitled to their profoundest reverence. They
+felt themselves bound to him not only by feelings of national
+sympathy, but of religious duty. Their experience of his superior
+learning, quickly obtained, made them anxious to profit by his
+instructions. They begged him to become their teacher. A
+theological class, consisting of upwards of sixty students, was
+formed. It held its daily sittings in the great mosque, and Abdel
+Kader presided over it with scrupulous punctuality. The Koran and
+the Hadeeth naturally formed the great staple of discussion; but
+unlike the ordinary teachers, whose utmost stretch of mental
+power<span class="pagenum" id="Page_307">[307]</span> only extended
+to worn-out remarks and commentaries on the sacred books, Abdel
+Kader astonished and delighted his disciples by choice quotations
+from the works of Plato and Aristotle, and occasionally even from
+authors of less repute, selected from his own library, which he had
+been carefully re-forming during his residence at Broussa.</p>
+
+<p>The light which thus shed its rays over the literary world of
+the Mohammedans of Damascus, was of course accompanied by its
+attendant shadow of envy and detraction, fostered by offended
+vanities and obscured reputations. Such, on the whole, was the
+social position of Abdel Kader in Damascus, when events
+unexpectedly occurred to disturb for a moment the tranquil tenor of
+his life.</p>
+
+<p>The Peace of Paris, concluded in 1856, filled the Turks with
+mingled sensations of exultation and mistrust: of exultation,
+because the peace had rescued them from an impending doom, and
+renewed their lease of political existence; of mistrust, because
+the deed of deliverance was saddled with a decree of death. Such a
+doom, it is true, depended on the realization of a theory; but that
+theory was, to them, of ominous importance. By eliciting from them
+the Hati Homayoom of 1856, the Christian Powers simply made the
+Turks put the knife to their own throats.</p>
+
+<p>If that famous “Magna Charta for the Christians of the East,” as
+it has been ridiculously styled by those who know nothing at all
+about the politics of the East, was to be strictly carried into
+execution, the relative position of Turks and Christians, as a
+body, throughout the Turkish empire, would in due course of time be
+completely reversed. The Turks have as yet escaped the stern
+necessity of giving themselves<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_308">[308]</span> the fatal gash; and their kind and
+forbearing allies have for the moment refrained from pressing the
+completion of the sacrifice. Nevertheless, it behoves the Christian
+Powers, seriously and conscientiously, to reflect that, on the
+execution or non-execution of the Hati Homayoom, depends the
+gradual enfranchisement, or the continued bondage and degradation
+of Christianity, under Turkish rule.</p>
+
+<p>When the Christian Powers signed a document giving the Turks an
+indefinite tenure of political existence, they virtually ratified
+the bond by which the latter have consigned some of the fairest
+provinces of the earth to irremediable depopulation, barrenness,
+and sterility. When they contented themselves with receiving in
+exchange an impossible programme of amalgamation, progress, and
+refinement, they not only stultified themselves, but betrayed the
+vital interests of humanity and civilisation.</p>
+
+<p>If England, passively consenting to be bound down by traditions
+which took their rise in an age when the East, with all its
+glorious destinies, was universally ignored, chooses still to
+regard the maintenance of the Turkish empire as indispensable to
+the balance of power in Europe—as though, in the event of its
+abruption or collapse, national adjustments would become
+impossibilities, political arrangements fictions, and diplomatic
+treaties myths—if, with suicidal arm, she still persists in helping
+to lock up those rich, fertile, and widely extended regions, which,
+if that empire were to pass under Christian sway, would rapidly be
+opened up to her commercial enterprise, and would increase the
+demands upon her arts and manufactures ten, fifty, and a hundred
+fold; then let her, by all means, go on worshipping her “log
+of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_309">[309]</span> wood,” and
+lavish in its support her money, her arms, and her men, thereby
+wasting and crippling her actual and prospective resources.</p>
+
+<p>But if, awakened at length to a due sense of her dignity and of
+her best interests, to say nothing of her responsibilities to a
+Higher Power, England should resolve to abandon the fruitless and
+thankless task of attempting to mould, tutor, and reform a
+government which by its very nature must ever be a stumbling-block
+and an offence in the path of Eastern advancement—which is the
+fanatical and persecuting enemy of her faith, which laughs at her
+credulity, practises on her forbearance, and is a permanent
+obstruction to the full development of her wealth and
+greatness—then her policy will lie in a nut-shell. Let her leave
+the Turks to fight their own battles. Howsoever, wheresoever, and
+by whomsoever attacked, let her stand by an undisturbed spectator.
+Let her quietly see the game commenced. She will always be in time
+to cut in and play her own cards.</p>
+
+<p>The Christians of Syria have ever been viewed by the Turks with
+gloomy jealousy. They are called “the Key to the Franks.” The Turks
+imagine them to be ever ready to welcome and aid a Frank invading
+force; furnishing it with supplies, and in various ways initiating
+it into the land’s capabilities and resources. Their increasing
+population, wealth, and prosperity, are to the Turks a perpetual
+source of exasperation, exciting in their breasts feelings of
+hatred and broodings of revenge.</p>
+
+<p>These Christians had deluded themselves into the idea that the
+Hati Homayoom was to become a reality. They gloried in the
+prospects of civil, military, and political equality
+with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_310">[310]</span> their
+Mohammedan fellow-subjects which it held out to them. They craved
+to be permitted to enter the service of the State, and offered to
+serve in the army. They were told their services were not wanted.
+At the same time the information was vouchsafed to them that they
+were to be subjected to a yearly fine of ten shillings per head, in
+lieu of military service.</p>
+
+<p>“What!”—they argued amongst themselves—“is this all that our
+friends and protectors, the great Christian Powers, have been able
+to procure from the Turks by the promulgation of the Hati Homayoom?
+Could they do no more than achieve mockery and derision for
+themselves, and for us an additional mark of inferiority and
+humiliation?” They could not believe it. The mistake, they were
+sure, would be rectified. They protested, and refused to pay the
+tax.</p>
+
+<p>The Christians of the Lebanon soon after observed, with just
+alarm, the menacing attitude displayed towards them by the Druzes.
+They knew at once that the Turks were going to play their old game
+of letting loose these tribes against them. What had they to do?
+They armed themselves to the teeth; and they were right. The
+Turco-Druze compact was already completed. Such was the aspect of
+affairs between the Turks and the Rayahs in Syria in 1859.</p>
+
+<p>The Turkish authorities in that province had duly reported the
+refractory conduct of the Christians, and the general tone of
+assumption evinced by them, to their superiors in Constantinople.
+In the instructions they received, they were emphatically told that
+the Christians must be “corrected.” The expression seems trivial,
+but those to whom it was addressed perfectly well understood its
+cabalistic meaning.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_311">[311]</span>As a Turkish
+sultan was once entering his kiosk, a handsome, comely-looking
+youth, the son of one of his viziers, attracted his notice. He
+approached him, patted him on the cheek, and stroked his chin. The
+lad, well knowing the feelings which prompted such a mark of
+attention, turned away from the caress with offensive abruptness.
+The Sultan looked towards the father, and sternly said, “Your son
+must be corrected.” That same day the lad’s head was cut off. He
+had been “corrected.” In Eastern phraseology this is called
+“imperial correction.”</p>
+
+<p>In May, 1860, the civil war between the Druzes and Christians,
+so sedulously fostered and excited by the Turks, broke out. In
+little more than a month the Lebanon became a vast scene of
+slaughter and conflagration. In an evil hour the Christians,
+despite their better convictions, had allowed themselves to be
+deceived by the solemn protestations of Turkish pashas and
+colonels, who called upon God to witness that they were about to
+act as mediators.</p>
+
+<p>They repaired by hundreds to the different Turkish garrisons
+planted over the mountain, hourly expecting the signal for peace.
+There, after having been politely requested to give up their arms,
+as a mark of confidence, they were crammed into open courts, or
+penned up in small chambers, according to the nature of the
+locality, and assured they were in perfect safety. And then, after
+a time, the Druzes and the Turkish troops fell on them, and
+massacred them all. They had been “corrected.”</p>
+
+<p>The Christians of Damascus were the next to be “corrected.”
+Abdel Kader, entirely ignorant of the great Turco-Druze plot, had
+sent messages to some of his friends among<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_312">[312]</span> the Druze Sheiks, at the commencement of
+the civil war in the Lebanon, calling upon them to exercise
+forbearance and moderation. He soon had occasion to turn his
+attention to events nearer home. Rumours were daily becoming more
+and more rife that the Mohammedans of the Pashalick of Damascus
+intended to rise on the Christians.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was at first incredulous. But his Algerines came
+round him day by day, repeating to him the fearful gossip of the
+town. Many of them, who had been tampered with, were asked to join
+in the scheme. He now went to the Ulemas, and begged them to use
+their influence with the people to allay the feeling, and avert
+such a frightful catastrophe. He wrote urgent letters in the same
+sense to the Ulemas of Homs and Hamah.</p>
+
+<p>Having received information that some straggling parties of the
+Druzes were extending their ravages towards Damascus, he hastened
+to send the following collective letter to all their leading
+Sheiks:—</p>
+
+<p class="center space-above15">“<span class="sc">To the Druze
+Sheiks in Mount Lebanon, and in the Plains and Mountains of the
+Houran</span>.</p>
+
+<p>“We continually invoke for you eternal happiness, and
+continuation of prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>“You are aware of our friendship for you, and our goodwill
+towards all the servants of God. Hearken to what we say to you, and
+accept and be advised by our admonition. The Turkish Government,
+and all men, know your old enmity towards the Christians of Mount
+Lebanon, and you may imagine that the Government will not hold you
+wholly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_313">[313]</span> responsible
+for the war which is now raging between you and them. The
+Government may accept your excuses.</p>
+
+<p>“But if you make offensive movements against a place with the
+inhabitants of which you have never before been at enmity, we fear
+such conduct would be the cause of a serious rupture between you
+and the Government. You know how anxious we are for your welfare
+and happiness, and that of all your countrymen at large. The wise,
+before taking a step, calculate the consequences.</p>
+
+<p>“Some of your horsemen have already been pillaging in the
+environs of Damascus. Such proceedings are unworthy of a community
+distinguished for its good sense and wise policy. We repeat it, we
+are most anxious for your welfare, and are hurt at whatever
+reflects on your name.</p>
+
+<p class="right pad-right2">“<span class="sc">Abdel Kader ibn
+Mehi-ed-deen</span>.</p>
+
+<p>“<em>May</em>, 1860.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">Abdel Kader next proceeded to Achmet
+Pasha, the Governor, and stated his apprehensions. The Pasha told
+him that there was no occasion to be alarmed, and that all reports
+were mere idle rumours. A second and third time he went to the
+Governor and renewed his representations, but with little or no
+effect. At last the Pasha allowed a few arms to be distributed
+amongst Abdel Kader’s followers, but without instructions under
+what circumstances they were to be used.</p>
+
+<p>On the 9th of July, in the forenoon, Abdel Kader’s Algerines
+came running in, in breathless haste, and told him the town had
+risen. Without a moment’s delay he sallied forth, ordering his
+attendants to follow him. After a few turnings he met a furious mob
+in full career towards the Christian<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_314">[314]</span> quarter. He drew up with his men in the
+centre of the street. The mob stopped short. A pause ensued. Abdel
+Kader harangued the rioters, expostulated with them, and
+endeavoured to convince them of the awfulness of the crime which
+they were about to commit. He implored them to desist and
+return.</p>
+
+<p>“What!” they shouted, “you, the great slayer of Christians, are
+you come out to prevent us from slaying them in our turn?
+Away!”</p>
+
+<p>“If I slew Christians,” he shouted in reply, “it was in
+accordance with our law—Christians who had declared war against me,
+and were arrayed in arms against our faith.”</p>
+
+<p>“Away, away!” retorted the mobs, and the rioters rushed by.
+Within three hours the Christian quarter was a waving sheet of
+fire. The hot blast, fraught with the moans of the tortured and the
+shrieks of the defiled, rolled over the city like a gust from
+hell.</p>
+
+<p>The Pasha had some days before made a pretence of affording
+protection to the Christians by stationing Turkish troops in their
+quarter. He now sent his soldiers orders to withdraw. They piled
+arms and plundered. But Abdel Kader hurried to the rescue.
+Altogether about 1,000 of his Algerines had by this time gathered
+round him. He patrolled the flaming streets. His men went from
+house to house, entering and crying out, “Christians, come forth!
+Do not fear us—we are Abdel Kader’s men, and are here to save you!
+Come forth, come forth!”</p>
+
+<p>At first, no voices responded. The unfortunate victims dreaded
+fresh treachery. By degrees, however, after repeated and earnest
+assurances, they gained confidence. Men, women,<span class=
+"pagenum" id="Page_315">[315]</span> and children issued forth
+trembling and crawling from their hiding-places. They emerged from
+wells, from sinks, from gutters. As fast as they could be collected
+together, they were hurried off to Abdel Kader’s abode, enclosed in
+long oblong squares, formed by the Algerines to protect them on the
+way from insult and attack.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader, who had more than once narrowly escaped
+suffocation, now returned to his house. He found it filled to
+overflowing. He induced his immediate neighbours to vacate their
+abodes in order to give shelter to the unhappy fugitives. But the
+tide kept pouring in, and still more space was wanted. As a last
+resource, he proposed to the Christians to send them for protection
+to the Turkish castle. But at this proposition a wild cry arose
+from all. The poor creatures fell on their knees, and with frantic
+gestures and agonising accents exclaimed, “O Abdel Kader, for God’s
+sake do not send us to the Turks! By your mother! by your wife! by
+your children! O Abdel Kader, save us from the Turks!”</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader endeavoured to reassure the supplicants and allay
+their fears. He pledged himself for their safety, and offered to
+accompany them to the citadel himself. Not a hair of their heads
+should be touched, he said, while he was alive. With sad misgivings
+and sinking hearts, the Christians at length consented to go. Abdel
+Kader headed the sad procession in person. His Algerines marched on
+its flanks and in its rear. It moved on rapidly. An unwonted gloom
+pervaded the great city. The bazaars were all deserted, and
+reverberated to the escort’s tramp in sad funereal echoes. The
+castle, which lay nearly a mile off, was reached a little before
+sunset, and Abdel Kader gave over his charge. The Turks looked at
+him askance.</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_316">[316]</span>For several days
+his Algerines were constantly engaged in escorting fugitive
+Christians, in batches of twenty, fifty, and a hundred, to the same
+destination. As they were being hurried along, all exclaimed alike,
+“Do not leave us to the mercy of the Turks! Come back to us! Stay
+with us! The Turks will yet murder us!” Nor indeed were their fears
+unfounded.</p>
+
+<p>On the third day, when the large quadrangle within the castle
+was crowded with the Christians, to the amount of some thousands,
+of all ranks, ages, and sexes, the Turks coolly divided the males
+from the females into two large bodies. The one was intended for
+massacre; the other was reserved for violation. They only awaited
+the arrival of the Druzes, whom they were hourly and anxiously
+expecting, to co-operate with them in the fiendish work.</p>
+
+<p>But here, also, Abdel Kader had marred and circumvented their
+diabolical designs. He had heard of the approach of the Druzes. He
+had ridden out to meet them. He had fallen in with them at the
+village of Ashrafeeiy, in the outskirts of the city. There he had
+parleyed with their Sheiks, had reasoned with them, and by his
+personal influence, and his eloquent and persuasive arguments, had
+succeeded in turning them aside from their bloody errand.</p>
+
+<p>For ten days he continued engaged in his arduous task. Once the
+mob approached his house, and demanded with frantic yells that the
+Christians within it should be delivered up to them. He drew his
+sword, and, accompanied by a strong body of his followers, at once
+went out to confront the yelling crowd. “Wretches!” he exclaimed,
+“is this the way you honour the Prophet? May his curse be upon
+you!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_317">[317]</span> Shame on you,
+shame! You will yet live to repent. You think you may do as you
+like with the Christians; but the day of retribution will come. The
+Franks will yet turn your mosques into churches. Not a Christian
+will I give up. They are my brothers. Stand back, or I give my men
+the order to fire.” The mob withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>When he returned to his post it was to keep anxious watch by
+day, and sleepless vigil by night. He had a rug spread at his
+entrance door, and on this hard bed he snatched intervals of
+troubled rest. He never once retired. He felt that his personal
+presence was absolutely indispensable for the safety of all. The
+stream of fugitives was incessant. Every moment Abdel Kader was
+called up to give orders to form escorts, or to issue provisions to
+the thousands congregated under his roof.</p>
+
+<p>The European Consuls, leaving their burning consulates behind
+them, had fled to him with their families on the first day. The
+British Consul alone, living in the Mohammedan quarter, had thought
+himself secure. But, as an additional security, he had sent to the
+Pasha, and requested that Turkish troops might be stationed at his
+house. A detachment of soldiers was accordingly dispatched for his
+protection.</p>
+
+<p>Shortly after their arrival one of his cawasses came and told
+him to beware. He had overheard the conversation of the Turkish
+soldiers. They were talking of breaking into the consulate, and
+murdering every one within their reach. After a slight
+deliberation, it was decided that Abdel Kader was the only resource
+now left. To Abdel Kader, accordingly, a messenger was instantly
+sent, craving immediate assistance. To the surprise and
+astonishment of the Turkish soldiers,<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_318">[318]</span> seventeen Algerines suddenly appeared, and
+seemed to supersede them in their functions. The Turks were
+overawed. Their bloody plot was frustrated; and the safety of the
+British Consul was secured. The interposition had been indeed both
+timely and providential. In a few minutes more the Consul with his
+staff and household would have been <em>massacred by their Turkish
+guard!</em></p>
+
+<p>Though the great mass of the Christians had been forwarded to
+the castle, the Consuls and many of the wealthier classes remained
+partakers of Abdel Kader’s hospitality for more than a month. By
+degrees, however, this assemblage broke up, moving off in
+successive parties, always escorted by Algerines, to Beyrout.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader was at length enabled to repose. He had rescued
+15,000 souls belonging to the Eastern churches from death, and
+worse than death, by his fearless courage, his unwearied activity,
+and his catholic-minded zeal. All the representatives of the
+Christian powers then residing in Damascus, without one single
+exception, had owed their lives to him. Strange and unparalleled
+destiny! An Arab had thrown his guardian ægis over the outraged
+majesty of Europe. A descendant of the Prophet had sheltered and
+protected the Spouse of Christ.</p>
+
+<hr class="chap">
+
+<h2><span class="pagenum" id="Page_319">[319]</span><a id=
+"c24"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<p class="sch">1860-1864.</p>
+
+<p class="nind"><span class="sc">The</span> Turkish authorities at
+Damascus, acting under the orders of Fuad Pasha, marked their sense
+of Abdel Kader’s humane intervention in behalf of the Christians,
+by sending him an order that his Algerines should deliver up their
+arms. Abdel Kader resented the order as an insult, and protested.
+“Never,” was his reply to this injunction, “will I submit to such
+an order, until Fuad Pasha has formally declared that I and my men
+have made a bad use of our weapons. In that case I will leave him
+to vindicate his conduct as best he can, with the European powers
+who have applauded my course of action.”</p>
+
+<p>Being powerfully supported from an influential quarter, Abdel
+Kader succeeded in averting the indignity which the Turks had
+deliberately and maliciously meditated against him. The spirit
+which had dictated Fuad Pasha, and the Turkish authorities in
+general, then became apparent. A general disarmament of the
+inhabitants of Damascus had been commenced, and about six hundred
+muskets had already been collected, when the above-mentioned order
+was sent to Abdel Kader. When they failed to obtain the arms of
+Abdel Kader and his suite, the Turks at once discontinued the
+general disarmament. The measure had evidently only
+been<span class="pagenum" id="Page_320">[320]</span> a pretext for
+the infliction of a humiliation on the defender of the
+Christians.</p>
+
+<p>The Christian powers covered Abdel Kader with the most
+distinguished marks of their gratitude and admiration. Letters,
+presents, and orders came from every side. France sent the Grand
+Cordon of the Legion of Honour; Russia, the Grand Cross of the
+White Eagle; Prussia, the Grand Cross of the Black Eagle; Greece,
+the Grand Cross of the Saviour; Turkey, the Medjidié of the 1st
+class. England sent a double-barreled gun, beautifully inlaid with
+gold; America, a brace of pistols similarly inlaid. The Order of
+Freemasons in France sent him a magnificent star. All these gifts
+and decorations were accompanied by letters of thanks.</p>
+
+<p>But not only in the Christian world had the conduct of Abdel
+Kader, in the midst of the hideous scenes enacted through the fell
+working of Turkish fanaticism, created a deep sensation and
+elicited tributes of praise and general rejoicing. In the
+Mohammedan world also, a profound feeling of astonishment and
+abhorrence had been excited at the vindictive daring, the blind
+fatuity, and the sanguinary anti-Christian malevolence of a
+Mohammedan power which, while pretending to be amenable to the
+higher instincts of European civilisation, could thus stimulate to
+deeds of atrocity, gratuitously barbarous, and not even sanctioned
+or countenanced by the most ferocious and exaggerated doctrines of
+the Koran itself.</p>
+
+<p>This feeling found its most eloquent exponent in the illustrious
+hero of the Caucasus. Schamyl, from his place of exile in Russia,
+addressed the following letter to Abdel Kader:—</p>
+
+<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_321">[321]</span>“To him who has
+made himself celebrated amongst all classes, high and low; who by
+his numerous and precious qualities stands distinguished from the
+rest of men; who put out the fire of discord before it had time to
+extend; who rooted up the tree of enmity, the fruit of which is, as
+it were, a head of Satan. Praise be to God, that He has clothed His
+servant with strength and faith! We would speak of the true and
+sincere friend, Abdel Kader the just. Salutation to you! May the
+palm tree of merit and honour be ever fruitful in your person!</p>
+
+<p>“Be it known to you, when my ear was struck with that which is
+hateful to the sense of hearing, and repulsive to human nature—I
+allude to the events lately occurring in Damascus, between the
+Mussulmans and the Christians, in which the former displayed a
+conduct unworthy of the professors of Islamism, and which can only
+lead to every kind of excess—a film spread over my soul, and my
+face, usually tranquil and serene, became covered with the shade of
+sadness. I cried out to myself, ‘Evil is on the earth and on the
+sea, by reason of man’s wickedness and perversity.’</p>
+
+<p>“I was astonished at the blindness of the functionaries who have
+plunged into such excesses, forgetful of the words of the Prophet,
+peace be upon him:—‘<em>Whoever shall be unjust towards a tributary
+(a Christian), who shall do him a wrong, who shall lay on him any
+charge beyond his means, and finally, who shall deprive him of
+anything without his own consent, it is I who will be his accuser
+in the day of judgment</em>.’ Oh, the sublime words! But when I was
+informed that you had covered the tributaries with the wings of
+kindness and compassion; that you had opposed yourself to the men
+who do<span class="pagenum" id="Page_322">[322]</span> contrary to
+the will of the Most High God, and that you had conquered the palm
+of victory in the amphitheatre of glory—a success which you have
+richly merited—I praised you, as the Most High God will praise you
+in that day, when fortune and children will avail but little.
+Truly, you have realised the word of the great Apostle whom the
+Most High God sent as a mark of pity for his creatures, and you
+have opposed a barrier to those who rejected his great example. May
+God preserve us from those who transgress His laws!</p>
+
+<p>“Impatient to testify the admiration I feel for your conduct, I
+hasten to address you this letter, as a drop out of the reservoir
+of my sympathies.</p>
+
+<p>“The unfortunate, who through the working of the decrees of the
+Great Master, has fallen into the hands of the infidels.</p>
+
+<p class="right pad-right2">“<span class="sc">Schamyl</span>, the
+Exile.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">To this sympathetic effusion Abdel Kader
+thus replied:—</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">“Praise be to God, the Master of worlds!
+May God be propitious to our lord Mohammed and all his brother
+prophets and apostles.</p>
+
+<p>“This comes from him who has great need of his all-abundant
+mercies, Abdel Kader, son of Mehi-ed-deen, il Hassany, and is
+addressed to his brother and friend in God, the glorious Schamyl.
+May God be favourable to us and you, at home and abroad! May the
+peace and grace of God rest ever upon you!</p>
+
+<p>“We have received your honourable letter, and your charming
+words have rejoiced our heart. That which you<span class="pagenum"
+id="Page_323">[323]</span> have heard about us, and which has given
+you such satisfaction, respecting our defence of the tributaries
+and the protection we gave them, both as regards their persons and
+their goods, according to our zeal and our means—all that, as you
+well know, is nothing but the fulfilment of the principles of our
+sacred law and of the dictates of humanity. Indeed, our law is the
+confirmation of all the best qualities, and embraces all virtues as
+a collar encircles the neck.</p>
+
+<p>“Vice is condemned in all religions; and to allow oneself to be
+carried away by it is like taking a poisonous aliment into the
+stomach. Nevertheless, as the poet has said, ‘Man, in certain
+moments of trial, has a bandage over his eyes, so that he calls
+that desirable which is just the reverse.’ Truly it is a case to
+say, ‘To God we belong and to Him we return.’ When we think how few
+men of real religion there are, how small the number of defenders
+and champions of the truth—when one sees ignorant persons imagining
+that the principle of Islamism is hardness, severity, extravagance,
+and barbarity—it is time to repeat these words, ‘Patience is
+lovely; in God let us trust.’</p>
+
+<p>“We were informed, some time ago, that you had arrived near the
+Emperor of Russia; and that this prince, treating you in a manner
+worthy of you, had loaded you with civilities and covered you with
+honour. We were told, moreover, that you had asked for permission
+to visit the holy cities (Mecca and Medina); and we pray God that
+he may prosper your demand and accomplish your wishes.</p>
+
+<p>“Indeed, the Emperor of Russia is one of the most distinguished
+of sovereigns. He is one of those who desire to see the record of
+their exalted deeds preserved in books. We<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_324">[324]</span> hope, therefore, that his magnanimity will
+grant you your wishes without difficulty. It is thus that the
+Sultan Napoleon III. has acted towards us. He has performed things
+for us which could never have entered into the mind of man. After
+all, it is in God alone that we must place our hope. He only has a
+right to our homage.</p>
+
+<p class="right pad-right2">“<span class="sc">Abdel Kader ibn
+Mehi-ed-deen il Hassany</span>.”</p>
+
+<p class="space-above15">The tranquil current of Abdel Kader’s
+life, momentarily ruffled, but scarcely interrupted, by the
+terrific episode which had broken in on his retirement, now resumed
+its wonted course. The simplicity, the scrupulous regularity, the
+exact and unvarying conscientiousness which guide and influence his
+actions, operate upon the thread of his existence with all the
+harmony of fixed laws.</p>
+
+<p>He rises two hours before daybreak, and is engaged in prayer and
+religious meditation till sunrise, when he goes to the mosque.
+After spending half an hour there in public devotions, he returns
+to his house, snatches a hurried meal, and then studies in his
+library till mid-day. The muezzin’s call now summons him again to
+the mosque, where his class is already assembled, awaiting his
+arrival. He takes his seat, opens the book fixed upon for
+discussion, and reads aloud, constantly interrupted by demands for
+those explanations which unlock the varied and accumulated stores
+of his troubled years of laborious study, investigation, and
+research. The sitting lasts for three hours.</p>
+
+<p>Afternoon prayer finished, Abdel Kader returns home and spends
+an hour amongst his children—his eight sons—examining the progress
+they are making in their studies. Then<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_325">[325]</span> he dines. At sunset he is again in the
+mosque, and instructs his class for one hour and a half. His
+professor’s duties for the day are now over. A couple of hours are
+still on hand; they are spent in his library. He then retires to
+rest.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader is punctual in his charities. Every Friday the
+street leading to his house may be seen filled with the poor, who
+are gathered together for their appointed distribution of bread.
+The poor who die (if utterly without means), not merely in his own
+quarter, but throughout Damascus, are buried at his expense. Every
+case of destitution has only to be brought to his notice to be
+instantly relieved. He lays out regularly more than £20 a month in
+charitable donations.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had long cherished in his heart the hope and desire
+of being able, sooner or later, to complete his round of religious
+duties by a crowning act of devotion. In the eyes of the devout
+Mussulman, no earthly rank or dignity is to be compared to that
+which carries with it the glorious distinction of entitling its
+bearer to be called “the Fellow of the Prophet.”</p>
+
+<p>To obtain this signal privilege, it is necessary to dwell
+continuously at Mecca or Medina for two years, or, at all events,
+to remain in the holy cities until two successive pilgrimages
+(Hadj) have arrived at and departed from those places. Abdel Kader
+now obtained the permission of his friend and benefactor, the
+Emperor Napoleon III., to prosecute his pious purpose. Being asked
+one day how he could bear to separate himself, at his age, for so
+long a time from his family, he replied, “It is true my family is
+dear to me, but God is dearer.”</p>
+
+<p>He left Damascus in January, 1863; and, after staying
+a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_326">[326]</span> few weeks in
+Cairo, embarked for Djedda, and in due time reached Mecca. There he
+was received by the great body of Ulemas and Imams, who make that
+holy city their constant place of residence, with the most marked
+respect and consideration. The Shereef of Mecca ordered a couple of
+rooms, within the precincts of the Haram, to be placed at his
+disposal. He was overwhelmed by visitors. After ten days, he
+intimated that his period of reception was over. He begged to be
+left in undisturbed privacy and seclusion.</p>
+
+<p>For the next twelve months he never quitted his hermit’s cell,
+except to go to the great mosque. His whole time was given up to
+sacred studies, meditation, and prayer. The fervour of his
+religious abstraction was stimulated by the most rigorous
+self-denial. He only allowed himself four hours’ sleep. He broke
+his fast but once in twenty-four hours, and then only to eat bread
+and olives. The severity and long continuance of this bodily and
+mental discipline told even on his iron frame. In the spring of
+1864 he indulged in a short relaxation by going to Taif, a town
+delightfully situated in a mountainous region about fourteen hours
+from Mecca, and surrounded with flowing streams and delicious
+gardens.</p>
+
+<p>Returning thence to Djedda he took ship, and in five days
+reached the port of Reis, six days’ distance by land from Medina.
+The whole of the intervening districts between Mecca and Medina,
+spreading far into the interior, and down to the sea-coasts, are
+infested by a race of Arabs called the Arabs Hurb. These
+demi-savages are hideous to behold. They wear little or no
+clothing. Their skins resemble burnt and crackling parchment. Their
+thick, shaggy, black hair floats wildly<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_327">[327]</span> over their shoulders. They have few horses;
+but they themselves run like ostriches.</p>
+
+<p>These Arab tribes are at perpetual war with the Turks. No
+caravan dares to cross these dangerous tracts without being
+strongly guarded. This duty devolves on Turkish troops, who run the
+gauntlet with hearts failing them for fear. They are generally
+attacked, mostly defeated, sometimes destroyed, the caravan
+reaching its destination naked and penniless.</p>
+
+<p>Amongst the Arabs Hurb the name of Abdel Kader had for years
+been a household word. On hearing of his arrival at Reis, their
+Sheiks sent him a deputation requesting permission for them to be
+allowed to come and offer him their salutations. He replied, that
+as they were at open enmity with the Turkish Government, and as
+some Turkish officials were accompanying him on his proposed
+journey inward, he begged to be spared the distinction they would
+have offered him. They acknowledged the delicacy of the dilemma,
+and did not persist. For once, and solely for the sake of Abdel
+Kader, they allowed the caravan from Reis to reach Medina without
+the slightest molestation. The return caravan was attacked and
+plundered, and the Turkish guard cut to pieces.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader remained at Medina for four months, resuming, near
+the Prophet’s tomb, the course of life he had practised while at
+Mecca. The guardian of the sanctuary repeatedly invited him to
+examine all the precious treasures it contained—the votive
+offerings of diamonds and pearls and precious stones, and gold and
+silver, sent by kings, princes, potentates, and grandees, from all
+parts of the Mohammedan world. But Abdel Kader refused even to look
+at the treasures. He<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_328">[328]</span> regarded them as a wasteful and useless
+prodigality, and a sinful misapplication of wealth, which might
+have been far better employed in works of general charity.</p>
+
+<p>When the time for his departure arrived, the Arabs Hurb again
+pressed on him their services, and offered to escort him in perfect
+safety through the overland route of fourteen days to Mecca. He
+would have availed himself of their offer had not two Ulemas who
+were his travelling companions dreaded the fatigues of the journey;
+and not wishing to separate himself from his fellow-travellers, he
+was again obliged to decline these flattering marks of personal
+devotion and attachment. He returned to Reis, and reached Mecca by
+the way he had come, in time to be present at the rites and
+solemnities of the Beiram, for the second time. His object and his
+vow were thus accomplished. He now turned his face homewards, and
+in June, 1864, arrived at Alexandria.</p>
+
+<p>Abdel Kader had just succeeded in achieving, after much toil and
+self-abnegation, the highest distinction to be attained in a
+religious profession pre-eminently dogmatic and exclusive. By a
+singular contrast, he now claimed to wear the badge of a society
+based and established on the principle of universal brotherhood.
+The Masonic body in Alexandria hastened to welcome the illustrious
+neophyte. The Lodge of the Pyramids was especially convoked for the
+occasion in the evening of the 18th of June. Abdel Kader was
+initiated into the mysteries; and to the privilege of being the
+“Fellow of the Prophet,” added the more time-honoured privilege of
+being “a free and accepted Mason.”</p>
+
+<p>After staying a short time at Alexandria, in order to complete
+the requisite documents and arrange the necessary
+details<span class="pagenum" id="Page_329">[329]</span> which were
+to enable him to take possession of a large landed property,
+presented to him by the Viceroy of Egypt, he left for Syria, and
+reached Damascus towards the end of July, 1864. There, for the
+present, we leave this “great and complete man,” pursuing that
+career which he considers to have been marked out for him by
+destiny. Of this career he himself has said, “It was pointed out to
+me by my birth, my education, and my predilection. It is one which
+I ardently long to resume, and to which I never cease praying to
+God to allow me to return, now at the close of my laborious
+years.”</p>
+
+<p>Though such, however, was the career which Abdel Kader had
+imagined for himself, an over-ruling Providence had ordained it
+otherwise. His career, as it stands before the public, is without a
+counterpart in the annals of great and extraordinary men, for its
+sudden and unexpected rise, for the strange variety of its phases,
+and the unlooked-for stages of its development. Never was there a
+career more completely typical of the riddle of human
+existence—never one which more completely illustrated the truth of
+the wise man’s saying—“A man’s goings are of the Lord; how can a
+man then understand his way?”</p>
+
+<p>That career may now be recapitulated in a few brief sentences. A
+young Mohammedan Arab had devoted himself to the seclusion and
+religious exercises of the cloister. A crisis in his country’s fate
+called him reluctantly from his retreat to the head of affairs. The
+seeds of his latent genius burst forth at once into full-blown
+maturity. He shone with unrivalled splendour as the preacher and
+leader of a Holy War against the encroachments of a Christian
+power. He kept the armies of this great power at bay for fifteen
+years,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_330">[330]</span> with forces
+immeasurably inferior, and only made available by the fiery
+enthusiasm with which he knew how to inspire them. Twice he
+compelled his enemy to grant him advantageous terms of peace, and
+to salute him with titles of sovereignty.</p>
+
+<p>All the while, he was moulding and forming an internal
+administration, which, rapidly superseding the wildest anarchy and
+confusion, presented a pattern of order, regularity, and justice.
+He laid the foundation of a Mohammedan empire. In his own person he
+offered to his subjects a model of bravery, fortitude, activity,
+perseverance, piety, and zeal. He yielded at length to overwhelming
+numbers. He surrendered to his Christian foes, on the express
+condition that they should conduct him, in the full enjoyment of
+complete and unrestricted freedom, to some other Moslem soil.</p>
+
+<p>His enemies treacherously conveyed him to their own land. Their
+Government threw him into hopeless and apparently life-long
+captivity. A prince whose genius, like his own, had sustained him
+with unfailing trust and confidence through adverse fortunes,
+overthrew that Government and arrived at supreme power. The
+magnanimity of that prince restored him to liberty.</p>
+
+<p>Then, by a wonderful turn in the wheel of fortune, this
+brilliant and uncompromising champion of Islamism was seen to take
+a marked and foremost place in the Christian world. He became a
+member of many of its literary and scientific bodies, corresponded
+on terms of equality and friendship with its most illustrious
+potentates; and finally, near the close of his ostensible career,
+saw his breast covered with the martial emblems of that very faith
+which, at its commencement, he<span class="pagenum" id=
+"Page_331">[331]</span> had drawn his sword to resist and to defy!
+Truly, such a career is without its parallel in history.</p>
+
+<p>Those who have perused the preceding pages will have found many
+grounds for salutary reflection. In the example there laid before
+them they will have been profitably reminded of the utter
+short-sightedness and uncertainty of all human calculations. They
+will, at the same time, have been instructed, edified, and
+encouraged, by the striking proof which it affords that the only
+really strengthening and peace-giving motives of human action are,
+a practical and persevering sense of duty, and a humble, cheerful,
+submissive, and unswerving trust in God.</p>
+
+<p class="center small space-above15">THE END.</p>
+
+<p class="space-above2">
+</p>
+
+<hr class="decor width20">
+
+<p class="center small">VIRTUE AND CO., PRINTERS. CITY-ROAD,
+LONDON.</p>
+
+<p class="space-above2">
+</p>
+
+<div class="footnotes">
+<h2>FOOTNOTES:</h2>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a id="Footnote_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_1"><span class=
+"label">[1]</span></a>
+</p>
+
+<div class="linegrp-container">
+<div class="linegrp">
+<div class="group">
+<div class="line indent0">“Time hath, my lord, a wallet at his
+back,</div>
+
+<div class="line indent0">&nbsp;Wherein he puts alms for
+oblivion.”</div>
+
+<div class="line indent0 right"><span class="sc">Troilus and
+Cressida</span>.</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<div class="footnote">
+<p><a id="Footnote_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor_2"><span class=
+"label">[2]</span></a>Mohammed.</p>
+</div>
+</div>
+
+<p class="space-above">
+</p>
+
+<div class="transnote">
+<h2>Transcriber's note:</h2>
+
+<ul>
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_5">5</a> Changed: "at the the same time" to:
+"at the same time"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_47">47</a> Changed: "but, a a Mussulman, I
+looked" to: "as a Mussulman"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_50">50</a>, pg <a href="#Page_84">84</a>, pg
+<a href="#Page_160">160</a>, pg <a href="#Page_167">167</a>
+Changed: "Milond-ibn-Arasch" or "Milond ibn Arasch" to:
+"Miloud"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_127">127</a> Changed: "‘with animation, ‘I
+hope yet to restore" to: "‘with animation, I hope yet to
+restore"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_134">134</a> Changed: "the last were Abon
+Hamadi" to: "Abou"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_142">142</a> Changed: "Kader adjured them
+them to rally" to: "Kader adjured them to rally"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_148">148</a> Changed: "plates of the national
+dish—the <em>conscoussia</em>" to: "<em>couscoussia</em>"</li>
+
+<li>pg <a href="#Page_285">285</a> Changed: "abjured him to
+vindidate" to: "vindicate"</li>
+</ul>
+</div>
+</div>
+<div style='text-align:center'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 77174 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
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+This book, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
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+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
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+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for eBook #77174
+(https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/77174)