THE WAR IN EGYPT.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume III, Issue 699, 27 July 1882, Page 2

THE WAR IN EGYPT.

[by cable.] [PKK REUXEH’s AGENCY.] London, July 24. In the House of Commons to-day Mr Gladstone, in reply to a question, stated that the expeditionary force now being dispatched to Egypt would m the first instance consist of 17,500 men, but that an additional 3,000 would leave later. The Premier announced that, in order to meet the extraordinary War credit for Egyptian expenditure, an additional threepence in the pound on the income tax would have to be levied during the present half-year. la the House of jUojrils to-day Earl. Granyille, Foreign SecriMry* stated that Government rejoiced 4t the cordial agreement which existed between England aha SVancein regard to Bgyptj and hoped

that Italy would join them in bringing about a settlement of the difficulty. The noble Earl added, France had not decided to send an expedition into the interior of Egypt, and concluded by declaring that the European Powers generally were in favor of the action which is being taken by England in Egypt. London, July 25. In the House of Commons to-day Mr Gladstone submitted a message from the Queen, informing the House that the Army Reserve has been called out for service. Paris, July 24. * It has transpired that the French Expedition to Egypt will be limited to 5,000 men. It is further understood that the French Government has decided to join England solely for the protection of the Suez Canal.

Alexandria, July 24.

Arab! Pasha has issued a reply to the recent proclamation of the Khedive, formally dismissing him from the position of Minister of War. Arabi’s reply takes the form of a proclamation calling for a Jehad or Holy War. The cry has been taken up by the masses, who are now flocking to his standard in great numbers. Alexandria, July 25. Intelligence is to hand that Arabi is still at Kafradowa. So tar he has made no important movement from that position. Hews is to hand that a disturbance has occurred at Tanhar in which the Europeans had been attacked ajad killed by the natives. The most frightful atrocities are reported to have been committed by the Egyptians upon their victims. The British troops are now in the occupation of Ramleh, having proceeded rapidly with the work of fortifying the place, in view of the possible advance of Ar&bi from Kafradowa against the position, [SPECIAL TO “ THE ARGBS.”] London, July 24, 2.5 p.m. An engagement between the outposts of the British and Arabi’s forces took place to-day at Ramleh, a village a few miles from Alexandria, on the way to Aboukirf Arabi’s cavalry, w hen approaching the place, were shelled by the Inflexible. London, July 24, 7.28 p.m. The 60th Rifles and a detachment of sailors occupied the village of Ramleh, and an attempt to re-take the place was made by the enemy’s cavalry, supported by artillery, but they were repulsed. The casualties are said to be small. It is feared that diffictity will be' experienced through the enemy cutting the aqueduct which supplied Alexandria with water. The supply to the city continues to shrink.

The Marquis of Hartington has given notice in the House of Commons that he will at the earliest possible moment move that the House approves of India paying the whole cost of the Indian contingent despatched to Egypt. Mr O’Donnel, Home Rule member, has intimated his intention to submit an amendment that the proposal is iniquitous. Mr Onslow will move the whole cost of the expedition be paid by Great Britain. London, July 24,' 10 p.m.

European powers decline to intervene in Egypt, or to depute any powers to act on behalf of the European concert. France is holding back, and it is not believed any reliance can be placed on her support, except providing protection of the Suez Canal. The expeditionary forces organised by Great Britain for despatch to Egypt consists of 2,400 cavalry, 13,400 infantry, 1,700 artillery, 3,700 various, and 3,110 reserve. London, July 25, 5.41 a.ra.

M. Freycinet has asked the French Chamber to vote nine and one half millions of francs to enable France to join in the protection of the Canal. France will undertake the protection of the northern half of the Canal, and provide security for the remainder.

[SPECIAL TO “the AG*.”] London, July 25, 4.55 p.m. Affairs at Ramleh are quiet, and the enemy inactive. The Armstrong guns of the British command the line, and should an encounter take place' sharp' fighting is expected. The Khedive has summoned Oherif Pasha to form a Ministry. The Suez Canal is clear. The rebels are joining Arab! Pasha’s forces nightly.