They appreciate the opportunity to loot; but they say that the British will hit back afterwards, and they, being nearest to the border, will suffer most; whereas I stand to gain all and to lose nothing.

Very absurd, of course, but that is their argument." "Surely," I said, "you don't expect me to take my coat off and preach a jihad against the British ?" "Im Gotteswillen! No, no, no! This is my meaning: if I can go before them with the offer of a school for El-Kerak, which the very worst scoundrel among them desires with all his ignorant heart; and if I can produce a distinguished gentleman from America, present among them on my invitation for the sole purpose of making the arrangements for such a school, that will convince them that I have their interests really at heart.

Do you see ?" Again the irritating fingers drumming on my knee.

I did not answer for fear of betraying ill-temper.
"I am a statesman, sir.

I understand the arguments with which whole nations may deceive themselves.