CHAPTER XV

ARABI'S REBELLION

1881-1882

Egypt: the _coup d'état_ of the Colonels: joint Anglo-French action--Gambetta as Prime Minister--His desire to remain on good terms with England--Egypt: the Dual Note--Gambetta in favour of a more resolute joint policy--Fall of Gambetta after two months of office--Ministry formed by Freycinet--French vacillation with regard to Egypt--Decision of H.M. Government to employ force--Bombardment of Alexandria--Decision of French Government to take no part in expedition--Fall of Freycinet--Invitation to Italy to join in expedition declined--Effect produced in France by British military success in Egypt--French endeavour to re-establish the Control in Egypt--Madagascar and Tonquin 258