eeble nation dared to stand up and defy the combined power of
Europe!

There was indignation and amazement among the Powers, who after further
consultation sent an ultimatum to Greece and to Turkey. They must both
withdraw from the island of Crete within six days, or the combined fleets
of six European States would compel them to do it.

The polite Sultan, who never refuses demands, of course consented at once.

But what do you think was the reply of the Prime Minister of Greece?

They were brave words! He said: _"Greece would rather be wiped off the map
of Europe than yield to the threat of the Powers!"_

There were twenty thousand of her countrymen on the island, helpless,
defenceless, among fierce and cruel Mohammedans. Greece had promised them
protection. She would _not_ leave them to their fate!

But in the mean time the storm clouds have been gathering in other parts
of the sky. The people in England and France and Italy are asking very
significantly whether their Governments are expecting them to fire upon a
Christian army and the Cross, in defence of the rights of the Mohammedan
Empire and the Crescent?

In addition to this, another storm cloud seems to be forming over the
Ottoman Empire itself. There are indications of a general uprising where
Greek Christians abound.

If the clouds over Turkey and those over Europe should unite--what then?
The Powers could fight battalions; but could they stand before a whirlwind
of popular sentiment?

Macedonia has no doubt long cherished the hope of a reunion with Greece;
and the other Graeco-Turkish provinces too. Perhaps they think the hour is
at hand for realizing that hope!

Nor is it strange if Greece also has been long hoping that when the
Ottoman Empire did finally crumble--as it must--she might out of the wreck
be able to bring together the long-separated fragments of her race.

God grant there may be no conflict between Greece and Europe. But if it
does come--and if a general overturning follows, as it might--it is not
impossible that Greece may come out of it a new and greater kingdom, by a
reunion of the scattered Hellenic (or Greek) peoples.

It is not at all improbable that some such dream of Hellenic unity
underlies the extraordinary drama we are witnessing in the East.

Of course, it is wise to try and avert a great European war. And of
course, diplomacy and tact are needed in dealing with such a delicate and
complicated situation. But there are