British and Foreign State Papers

The Central Cretan Committee, following up for the fourth time its work, proceeds bravely to the accomplishment of its high duties, and calls for the assistance of every Hellene, of every friend of liberty and civilization, to send powder and arms for those who are combating, and bread for the women, children, or old men.

Contributions may be sent to M. Mark Renieri, 4, Odos Peirdos, or to the National Bank.

Athens, January 27, 1897 (o. s.).

Mr. Egerton to the Marquess of Salisbury.-(Received February 17.)

MY LORD,

Athens, February 10, 1897. WITH reference to my despatch of the 3rd instant, in which I reported the return of M. Manos to Athens as a sign that an immediate rising amongst Christians was not imminent, I may mention that M. Manos returned to Crete immediately on the news of the events at and near Canea. He is, it appears, of the Committee of the "National Society."

It is evident, and indeed avowed, that the Christians did not expect matters to come to a crisis in Crete before next month, and it appears that the preparations in the way of arms and munitions were not so complete as they were given out to be, so that the Committees here feel that the secret action of the Turks in Crete has put them at a disadvantage by precipitating events when they were not ready.

The Marquess of Salisbury.

I have, &c.,

EDWIN H. EGERTON.

[Continued in Vol. XCI.]