CHAPTER XIX.1864.
RECEPTION OF SIR MOSES BY THE SULTAN OF MOROCCO—ENTHUSIASTIC WELCOME FROM THE JEWISH COLONY—HOME AGAIN—CONGRATULATORY MEETING AT THE LONDON TAVERN.
THE next letter Sir Moses addressed to the Presidentpro tem.of the Board of Deputies was dated Gibraltar, February 24th.
"On Wednesday, the 27th ultimo, I was visited by deputations from the several learned Jewish bodies in the city of Morocco. I should estimate the number of my visitors to have amounted to between three and four hundred. I fear, from their appearance, that they are in very poor circumstances; yet one cannot but admire their devotion to the study of our Holy Law."On Sunday, the 31st ultimo, I received an official intimation that the Sultan would give our party a public reception on the following day."On Monday, the 1st instant, long before dawn, we could distinguish the sounds of martial music, indicating the muster of the troops in and about the environs of the Sultan's palace. At the early hour of 7A.M., I had the honour to receive a visit from Sid Taib El Yamany, the good and intelligent Oozier, or Chief Minister of His Sheriffian Majesty, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abderahman Ben Hisham, the present Sultan of Morocco. He expressed the pleasure of the Sultan to receive us at his Court, and his Majesty's desire to make our visit to his capital an agreeable one. Shortly after the departure of the Oozier, the Royal Vice-Chamberlain, with acortégeof cavalry, arrived at our palace to convey us to the audience."You may recollect that our party, in addition to myself, consisted of Mr Thomas Fellowes Reade, Consul to Her Britannic Majesty at Tangier; Captain William Armytage, of H.M.S. theMagicienne, two of his officers; Dr James Gibson Thomas Forbes and Lieutenant Francis Durrant; my fellow-travellers, Dr Thomas Hodgkin, and Mr Sampson Samuel; and Mr Moses Nahon, of Tangier, who had volunteered to accompany us to Morocco, and to whom we are all deeply indebted."I have not stated in my previous letters that Senor José Daniel Colaco, the Portuguese Minister at Tangier, kindly placed at my disposal his chaise-a-porteurs to enable me to perform the journey over the rough and stony plains of the interior of Morocco. To this were harnessed two mules, one behind and one in front of the vehicle. I believe I should not have been equal to the fatigue of travelling on horseback, and even as it was, this mode of transit was very trying and fatiguing."A quarter of an hour's ride brought us to the gates opening upon an avenue leading to the courtyard, or open space, before the palace."This avenue, which is of very considerable length, was lined on both sides by infantry troops of great variety of hue and accoutrements. They were standing in closely serried rank, and we must have passed several hundreds before emerging into the open plain. There a magnificent sight opened upon us; we beheld in every direction masses of troops, consisting of cavalry and foot soldiers. I should estimate the total number assembled on this occasion at not less than six thousand."We went forward some little distance into the plain, and saw approaching us the Oozier, the Grand Chamberlain, and other dignitaries of the Court. I descended from my vehicle, and my companions alighted from their steeds to meet them. We were cordially welcomed. We arranged ourselves in a line to await the appearance of the Sultan. This was preceded by a string of led white horses, and the Sultan's carriage covered with green cloth. His Majesty's approach was announced by a flourish of trumpets; he was mounted on a superb white charger, the spirited movements of which were controlled by him with consummate skill. The colour of the charger indicated that we were welcomed with the highest distinction."The countenance of His Majesty is expressive of great intelligence and benevolence."The Sultan expressed his pleasure in seeing me at his Court; he said my name was well known to him, as well as my desire to improve the condition of my brethren; he hoped that my sojourn in his capital would be agreeable; he dwelt with great emphasis on his long-existing amicable relations with our country; he also said it was gratifying to him to see two of the officers in its service at his Court."I had the honour, at this audience, to place in the hands of His Majesty my Memorial, on behalf of the Jewish and Christian subjects of his empire."After the interview we were escorted back to our garden palace with the same honours as had been paid to us on our way to the Court, my chair having a white horse led before it, as well on my going, as on my returning, which is a high and distinguished mark of honour."The Oozier had invited us to his palace for the evening of the same day; we were entertained with true oriental hospitality."In the course of the evening's conversation, we elicited from the Oozier, the assurance of the Sultan's desire, as well as his own, to protect the Jews of Morocco. He took notes of some particular grievances which we brought to his knowledge, and promised to institute the necessary enquiries, with a view to their being redressed. Other measures were discussed, such as the enlargement of the crowded Jewish quarters in Mogador, and the grant of a house for a hospital at Tangier, all of which the Oozier assured us should receive his favourable consideration."Arrangements had been made that theMagicienneshould meet us at Saffi on the 8th instant, by which time we had expected we should be able to reach that port on our return from the Capital; but I had determined to await a response, favourable or otherwise, to my Memorial to the Sultan; nor was it considered desirable that we should proceed to Saffi. The surf there at all times runs very high, and great danger might have been incurred in attempting to pass through it, even if such attempt were deemed practicable."Under these circumstances, Captain Armytage resolved that he and Mr Durrant should leave Morocco on Thursday, the 4th instant, to meet his ship at Saffi at the time appointed, and to proceed therewith to Mazagan and await our arrival there."All our party accompanied him and Mr Durrant on Wednesday morning, the 3rd instant, on their farewell visit to the Oozier. I availed myself of this opportunity to represent to the Minister my anxiety to receive an earlycommunication from the Sultan. The Oozier assured me that it would be such as would be satisfactory to me."On Friday, the 5th instant, the Imperial Edict, under the sign-manual of the Sultan, was placed in my hands."On the following day we received an intimation that His Majesty would receive us on Sunday morning, the 7th instant."Soon after 7A.M., on that day, the Vice-Chamberlain arrived at our palace, with the same state as on the former occasion, and we were conducted, with like honour, to the palace; there was a similar display of troops, and this time the Emperor received us in a kiosk in the palace-gardens; he was seated on a mahogany sofa covered with green cloth. His Majesty renewed his friendly and courteous assurance of welcome, and expressed his hope that we had been happy and comfortable during our stay at his capital, and he renewed his assurance that it was his intention and desire to protect his Jewish subjects."He directed us to be conducted through his royal gardens by the chief of that department; they are very extensive, abounding in magnificent vineries, orange, olive, and other trees; there are two lakes of ornamental water, on one of which is a pleasure boat, with paddle wheels moved by mechanism. You may form some idea of the vast extent of the gardens, from the fact that it took us several hours to pass through some of the principal avenues."Immediately after quitting the royal gardens, we visited the Jewish quarter. The crowd was enormous, our reception enthusiastic. The narrow streets or lanes, through which we had the greatest difficulty to make our way, were all but choked up with our numerous friends; from every window, from the city wall, in fact wherever the eye rested, we beheld groups of our brothers and sisters all uniting to bid us welcome."We first went to one of the many Synagogues—the oldest and the largest, (though, I regret to say, a very humble structure). Here were assembled the Chief Rabbis and others to meet us; from thence we paid visits of respect to Mr Corcos, a relative of Mr Abraham Corcos, of Mogador, and Mr Nahon, a relative of Mr Moses Nahon, of Tangier, two of our most respected co-religionists in the City of Morocco."The same evening we were again entertained by the Oozier."On Monday, the 8th inst., about noon, we bade adieu to the city of Morocco, being escorted to some distance by a Guard of Honour of horse and foot soldiers, some of whom accompanied us until our arrival at Mazagan. The Sultan had provided me with a magnificent pavilion tent; in fact, our horses, mules, provisions, &c., &c., were all furnished at his expense. Mr Corcos, Mr Nahon, and several others of the principal Jews of Morocco travelled with us during our first day's journey, and encamped with us overnight...."On Thursday, the 11th inst., we were met on our way to our night's encampment by the son of the Governor of the District, accompanied by some fine cavalry soldiers. He brought us an invitation from his father to encamp for the night at his city, and pressed his request so earnestly that we could not in reason refuse compliance. This, however, involved considerable addition to our day's travel. We did not reach our destination until nightfall, having accomplished on that day a distance of about twenty-seven miles. The Governor, in addition to the usual mona, supplied us with a magnificent repast of cous-cous and other delicacies, which were pronounced by Mr Reade to be very savoury."We were all very much exhausted by our day's hard work. During the day I had been met by a deputation of about a hundred of our co-religionists from Saffi."In compliance with an urgent invitation from the Governor of another district, we consented to stay during Sabbath at his Palace, this being within a day's easy journey to Mazagan."We were met, on our approach to the town, or rather walled village, consisting almost entirely of tents and huts, by some of its Jewish inhabitants, the females bearing banners composed of silk handkerchiefs, embroidered muslin sashes, and other articles of female finery. I was informed that the Governor is very kind to the Jewish families. He appropriated one of his residences to myself and friends. We remained in this place from the Friday afternoon till the following Sunday morning, the 14th instant."The Governor presented me with a horse, and at the earnest entreaty of one of my co-religionists of Saffi I was obliged to accept a like gift from him."Here also I had the pleasure to see one of the liberated Saffi prisoners, who satisfied me that there had not existed the slightest cause for his imprisonment."When within about an hour's distance of Mazagan we were met by Mr Octavus Stokes, the British Consul at that port, the principal Christian and Jewish merchants, and by a procession of numerous co-religionists, the females carrying a profusion of banners, and vociferating their huzzas Moorish fashion, the shrill tones of which were intended to demonstrate an enthusiastic welcome."We caught soon after a glimpse of the sea, and then were gladdened with the sight of theMagiciennelying off the port, awaiting to re-conduct us to Gibraltar."As Captain Armytage was under the necessity of returning without delay, we were unable to make any stay at Mazagan, but as a house had been prepared by our Jewish friend for our reception, it was arranged that we should stay there over night, and embark early the next morning. Great preparations had been made for our evening repast—one bullock, two sheep, and I know not how many turkeys and fowls, with a profusion of other good things, had been supplied by our co-religionists."On reaching Mazagan I forthwith proceeded to the Synagogue to offer my grateful thanks to God for the prosperous issue of my mission, and for His gracious mercy in permitting the members of our perilous expedition to return thus far on our homeward travels in health and safety. It had taken us seven days, exclusive of the Sabbath, to travel from Morocco to Mazagan, the distance being about 120 miles."
"On Wednesday, the 27th ultimo, I was visited by deputations from the several learned Jewish bodies in the city of Morocco. I should estimate the number of my visitors to have amounted to between three and four hundred. I fear, from their appearance, that they are in very poor circumstances; yet one cannot but admire their devotion to the study of our Holy Law.
"On Sunday, the 31st ultimo, I received an official intimation that the Sultan would give our party a public reception on the following day.
"On Monday, the 1st instant, long before dawn, we could distinguish the sounds of martial music, indicating the muster of the troops in and about the environs of the Sultan's palace. At the early hour of 7A.M., I had the honour to receive a visit from Sid Taib El Yamany, the good and intelligent Oozier, or Chief Minister of His Sheriffian Majesty, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abderahman Ben Hisham, the present Sultan of Morocco. He expressed the pleasure of the Sultan to receive us at his Court, and his Majesty's desire to make our visit to his capital an agreeable one. Shortly after the departure of the Oozier, the Royal Vice-Chamberlain, with acortégeof cavalry, arrived at our palace to convey us to the audience.
"You may recollect that our party, in addition to myself, consisted of Mr Thomas Fellowes Reade, Consul to Her Britannic Majesty at Tangier; Captain William Armytage, of H.M.S. theMagicienne, two of his officers; Dr James Gibson Thomas Forbes and Lieutenant Francis Durrant; my fellow-travellers, Dr Thomas Hodgkin, and Mr Sampson Samuel; and Mr Moses Nahon, of Tangier, who had volunteered to accompany us to Morocco, and to whom we are all deeply indebted.
"I have not stated in my previous letters that Senor José Daniel Colaco, the Portuguese Minister at Tangier, kindly placed at my disposal his chaise-a-porteurs to enable me to perform the journey over the rough and stony plains of the interior of Morocco. To this were harnessed two mules, one behind and one in front of the vehicle. I believe I should not have been equal to the fatigue of travelling on horseback, and even as it was, this mode of transit was very trying and fatiguing.
"A quarter of an hour's ride brought us to the gates opening upon an avenue leading to the courtyard, or open space, before the palace.
"This avenue, which is of very considerable length, was lined on both sides by infantry troops of great variety of hue and accoutrements. They were standing in closely serried rank, and we must have passed several hundreds before emerging into the open plain. There a magnificent sight opened upon us; we beheld in every direction masses of troops, consisting of cavalry and foot soldiers. I should estimate the total number assembled on this occasion at not less than six thousand.
"We went forward some little distance into the plain, and saw approaching us the Oozier, the Grand Chamberlain, and other dignitaries of the Court. I descended from my vehicle, and my companions alighted from their steeds to meet them. We were cordially welcomed. We arranged ourselves in a line to await the appearance of the Sultan. This was preceded by a string of led white horses, and the Sultan's carriage covered with green cloth. His Majesty's approach was announced by a flourish of trumpets; he was mounted on a superb white charger, the spirited movements of which were controlled by him with consummate skill. The colour of the charger indicated that we were welcomed with the highest distinction.
"The countenance of His Majesty is expressive of great intelligence and benevolence.
"The Sultan expressed his pleasure in seeing me at his Court; he said my name was well known to him, as well as my desire to improve the condition of my brethren; he hoped that my sojourn in his capital would be agreeable; he dwelt with great emphasis on his long-existing amicable relations with our country; he also said it was gratifying to him to see two of the officers in its service at his Court.
"I had the honour, at this audience, to place in the hands of His Majesty my Memorial, on behalf of the Jewish and Christian subjects of his empire.
"After the interview we were escorted back to our garden palace with the same honours as had been paid to us on our way to the Court, my chair having a white horse led before it, as well on my going, as on my returning, which is a high and distinguished mark of honour.
"The Oozier had invited us to his palace for the evening of the same day; we were entertained with true oriental hospitality.
"In the course of the evening's conversation, we elicited from the Oozier, the assurance of the Sultan's desire, as well as his own, to protect the Jews of Morocco. He took notes of some particular grievances which we brought to his knowledge, and promised to institute the necessary enquiries, with a view to their being redressed. Other measures were discussed, such as the enlargement of the crowded Jewish quarters in Mogador, and the grant of a house for a hospital at Tangier, all of which the Oozier assured us should receive his favourable consideration.
"Arrangements had been made that theMagicienneshould meet us at Saffi on the 8th instant, by which time we had expected we should be able to reach that port on our return from the Capital; but I had determined to await a response, favourable or otherwise, to my Memorial to the Sultan; nor was it considered desirable that we should proceed to Saffi. The surf there at all times runs very high, and great danger might have been incurred in attempting to pass through it, even if such attempt were deemed practicable.
"Under these circumstances, Captain Armytage resolved that he and Mr Durrant should leave Morocco on Thursday, the 4th instant, to meet his ship at Saffi at the time appointed, and to proceed therewith to Mazagan and await our arrival there.
"All our party accompanied him and Mr Durrant on Wednesday morning, the 3rd instant, on their farewell visit to the Oozier. I availed myself of this opportunity to represent to the Minister my anxiety to receive an earlycommunication from the Sultan. The Oozier assured me that it would be such as would be satisfactory to me.
"On Friday, the 5th instant, the Imperial Edict, under the sign-manual of the Sultan, was placed in my hands.
"On the following day we received an intimation that His Majesty would receive us on Sunday morning, the 7th instant.
"Soon after 7A.M., on that day, the Vice-Chamberlain arrived at our palace, with the same state as on the former occasion, and we were conducted, with like honour, to the palace; there was a similar display of troops, and this time the Emperor received us in a kiosk in the palace-gardens; he was seated on a mahogany sofa covered with green cloth. His Majesty renewed his friendly and courteous assurance of welcome, and expressed his hope that we had been happy and comfortable during our stay at his capital, and he renewed his assurance that it was his intention and desire to protect his Jewish subjects.
"He directed us to be conducted through his royal gardens by the chief of that department; they are very extensive, abounding in magnificent vineries, orange, olive, and other trees; there are two lakes of ornamental water, on one of which is a pleasure boat, with paddle wheels moved by mechanism. You may form some idea of the vast extent of the gardens, from the fact that it took us several hours to pass through some of the principal avenues.
"Immediately after quitting the royal gardens, we visited the Jewish quarter. The crowd was enormous, our reception enthusiastic. The narrow streets or lanes, through which we had the greatest difficulty to make our way, were all but choked up with our numerous friends; from every window, from the city wall, in fact wherever the eye rested, we beheld groups of our brothers and sisters all uniting to bid us welcome.
"We first went to one of the many Synagogues—the oldest and the largest, (though, I regret to say, a very humble structure). Here were assembled the Chief Rabbis and others to meet us; from thence we paid visits of respect to Mr Corcos, a relative of Mr Abraham Corcos, of Mogador, and Mr Nahon, a relative of Mr Moses Nahon, of Tangier, two of our most respected co-religionists in the City of Morocco.
"The same evening we were again entertained by the Oozier.
"On Monday, the 8th inst., about noon, we bade adieu to the city of Morocco, being escorted to some distance by a Guard of Honour of horse and foot soldiers, some of whom accompanied us until our arrival at Mazagan. The Sultan had provided me with a magnificent pavilion tent; in fact, our horses, mules, provisions, &c., &c., were all furnished at his expense. Mr Corcos, Mr Nahon, and several others of the principal Jews of Morocco travelled with us during our first day's journey, and encamped with us overnight....
"On Thursday, the 11th inst., we were met on our way to our night's encampment by the son of the Governor of the District, accompanied by some fine cavalry soldiers. He brought us an invitation from his father to encamp for the night at his city, and pressed his request so earnestly that we could not in reason refuse compliance. This, however, involved considerable addition to our day's travel. We did not reach our destination until nightfall, having accomplished on that day a distance of about twenty-seven miles. The Governor, in addition to the usual mona, supplied us with a magnificent repast of cous-cous and other delicacies, which were pronounced by Mr Reade to be very savoury.
"We were all very much exhausted by our day's hard work. During the day I had been met by a deputation of about a hundred of our co-religionists from Saffi.
"In compliance with an urgent invitation from the Governor of another district, we consented to stay during Sabbath at his Palace, this being within a day's easy journey to Mazagan.
"We were met, on our approach to the town, or rather walled village, consisting almost entirely of tents and huts, by some of its Jewish inhabitants, the females bearing banners composed of silk handkerchiefs, embroidered muslin sashes, and other articles of female finery. I was informed that the Governor is very kind to the Jewish families. He appropriated one of his residences to myself and friends. We remained in this place from the Friday afternoon till the following Sunday morning, the 14th instant.
"The Governor presented me with a horse, and at the earnest entreaty of one of my co-religionists of Saffi I was obliged to accept a like gift from him.
"Here also I had the pleasure to see one of the liberated Saffi prisoners, who satisfied me that there had not existed the slightest cause for his imprisonment.
"When within about an hour's distance of Mazagan we were met by Mr Octavus Stokes, the British Consul at that port, the principal Christian and Jewish merchants, and by a procession of numerous co-religionists, the females carrying a profusion of banners, and vociferating their huzzas Moorish fashion, the shrill tones of which were intended to demonstrate an enthusiastic welcome.
"We caught soon after a glimpse of the sea, and then were gladdened with the sight of theMagiciennelying off the port, awaiting to re-conduct us to Gibraltar.
"As Captain Armytage was under the necessity of returning without delay, we were unable to make any stay at Mazagan, but as a house had been prepared by our Jewish friend for our reception, it was arranged that we should stay there over night, and embark early the next morning. Great preparations had been made for our evening repast—one bullock, two sheep, and I know not how many turkeys and fowls, with a profusion of other good things, had been supplied by our co-religionists.
"On reaching Mazagan I forthwith proceeded to the Synagogue to offer my grateful thanks to God for the prosperous issue of my mission, and for His gracious mercy in permitting the members of our perilous expedition to return thus far on our homeward travels in health and safety. It had taken us seven days, exclusive of the Sabbath, to travel from Morocco to Mazagan, the distance being about 120 miles."
In a letter, dated East Cliff Lodge, Ramsgate, 5th of April 1864, addressed to the Presidentpro tem., he gives the conclusion of the narrative of his mission:—
"My letter to you of the 11th ultimo informed you of my desire to place in the hands of Her Majesty the Queen of Spain a copy of the Sultan's Firman. I have now the gratification to tell you that on Friday, the 18th ultimo, I had the honour (accompanied by His Excellency Sir John F. Crampton) to have a second audience of Her Majesty, the King Consort being present. I presented to Her Majesty a copy of the Imperial Edict of the Sultan of Morocco, with a translation in Spanish, which were most graciously received by Her Majesty."On Sunday morning, the 20th ultimo, I left Madrid, and travelled by railway and carriage road for twenty-five hours continuously, so that I might arrive in time at Bayonne to attend the service of Purim at the Synagogue, which I was thus able to attend on Monday evening, the 21st, and Tuesday morning, the 22nd ultimo. I reached Paris on Thursday, the 24th, and onthe following Thursday, the 31st ultimo, through the kind offices of His Excellency Lord Cowley, I had the honour of a private audience of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of the French, at the Palace of the Tuileries, and placed in the hands of His Imperial Majesty a copy of the Sultan's Edict, with a translation in French; these were accepted in the most gracious manner. Doctor Hodgkin was present on the occasion. I left Paris yesterday."
"My letter to you of the 11th ultimo informed you of my desire to place in the hands of Her Majesty the Queen of Spain a copy of the Sultan's Firman. I have now the gratification to tell you that on Friday, the 18th ultimo, I had the honour (accompanied by His Excellency Sir John F. Crampton) to have a second audience of Her Majesty, the King Consort being present. I presented to Her Majesty a copy of the Imperial Edict of the Sultan of Morocco, with a translation in Spanish, which were most graciously received by Her Majesty.
"On Sunday morning, the 20th ultimo, I left Madrid, and travelled by railway and carriage road for twenty-five hours continuously, so that I might arrive in time at Bayonne to attend the service of Purim at the Synagogue, which I was thus able to attend on Monday evening, the 21st, and Tuesday morning, the 22nd ultimo. I reached Paris on Thursday, the 24th, and onthe following Thursday, the 31st ultimo, through the kind offices of His Excellency Lord Cowley, I had the honour of a private audience of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of the French, at the Palace of the Tuileries, and placed in the hands of His Imperial Majesty a copy of the Sultan's Edict, with a translation in French; these were accepted in the most gracious manner. Doctor Hodgkin was present on the occasion. I left Paris yesterday."
Scarcely had Sir Moses arrived in England, when hearty welcomes reached him, not only from this country, but from all parts of the civilized world.
Two thousand addresses, alphabetically arranged, in the Lecture Hall of Judith, Lady Montefiore and Theological College, manifest in eloquent terms the appreciation of the services rendered by a man nearly eighty years of age.
At a public meeting, held at the London Tavern, on Wednesday, the 13th April—Mr Alderman Salamon in the chair—the following resolutions were unanimously adopted, on the motion of Sir Anthony de Rothschild, seconded by Mr Gladstone:—
That Moses Montefiore, by his philanthropic zeal in undertaking, at an advanced age, a laborious journey for the purpose of remonstrating against the cruelties inflicted on the Jews at Tangiers and Saffi, and by his successful representations to the Emperor of Morocco on behalf of all non-Mahometan subjects of that Empire, has rendered an important service to the cause of humanity, and that Sir Moses Montefiore has thus added to the many claims which he has already established on the gratitude and admiration of the Jewish community, and of his fellow citizens at large.
It was moved by Sir Francis H. Goldsmid, and seconded by Mr Wolverley Attwood,—
That an address expressive of these sentiments be presented, on behalf of this meeting, to Sir Moses Montefiore.
It was moved by Mr John Abel Smith, seconded by Mr Sergeant (now Sir John) Simon,—
That this meeting desires to express its deep obligation to Earl Russell (Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs) for the readiness with which he afforded to Sir Moses Montefiore the countenance and support of the Government, and to offer its earnest thanks to Sir John Hay Drummond Hay (Her Majesty's Consul-General in Morocco), to Mr ConsulReade, and to all those who personally aided in carrying into effect the objects, and thus contributed to the success of the journey.
It was moved by Mr Goschen, and seconded by Mr Jacob Waley,
That this meeting, bearing in mind the gracious reception accorded by His Majesty the Emperor of Morocco to the representations of Sir Moses Montefiore, Bart., wishes to record its high appreciation of the desire shown by that enlightened Sovereign to extend his protection and ensure justice to all classes of his subjects, without reference to religious creed, and that this meeting would be gratified if Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs would communicate this resolution to His Majesty through the British Consul-General in Morocco.
It was moved by Mr A. Cohen, and seconded by Mr Henry Isaac, that this meeting contemplating with deep satisfaction the social and political equality now happily enjoyed by all the subjects of Her Majesty, feels pride and gratification in remarking how the example thus set has contributed to induce other countries to adopt the same beneficent principles.
Sampson Lucas,}Saul Isaac,}Hon. Secs.Ernest Hart,}Julian Goldsmid,}
Meetings of a similar kind were held by all the Hebrew congregations and many public institutions in the British realm. Resolutions were adopted, and copies of the same conveyed to Sir Moses by their respective deputations; but he did not consider that he had yet completed the work of the Mission.
He thought it desirable to address a letter to the Minister of State in Morocco urging him to see that full effect was given by the Governors and Pashas of provinces to the edict of the Sultan, and, in accordance with his own views on the subject, he sent a letter in the Moorish language to the Minister, of which I here give an exact translation:—
"Grosvenor Gate, Park Lane, London,"June 1, 1864."To the Illustrious Oozier Sid Taib El Yaminy, Minister of State,Morocco, &c., &c., &c."May it please your Excellency,—My heart is deeply impressed with thankfulness to your Excellency for the kind letter which your Excellencyhas so courteously transmitted to me in reply to that which I had the honour to address to your Excellency on the 23rd February last."Since my return to Europe I had the honour, while at Madrid, to place in the hands of her Catholic Majesty the Queen of Spain, a copy of the Imperial Edict of your august Sovereign, with a translation in the Spanish language; and while at Paris, to place in the hands of his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of the French a like copy, with a translation in the French language; also on my arrival in London I had the gratification to present to the Government of my beloved Sovereign a like copy, with an English translation."The Imperial Edict of his Sheriffian Majesty has obtained a world-wide celebrity, and has everywhere received the eulogies to which it is so eminently entitled."The friends of humanity and civilization throughout the world entertain the earnest hope and belief that your gracious Sovereign, and that you, illustrious Sir, will cause that edict to be known and respected by all the governors and officials in the empire of Morocco."There is too much reason to fear that there exists a disposition on the part of some of these governors and officials to ignore or disregard the benign commands of the Sultan, and that they are acting in direct contravention of the Sheriffian Majesty's high and exalted intentions, that his Jewish and other non-Mahomedan subjects shall be permitted to enjoy the benefits so humanely secured to them by his Sheriffian Majesty's glorious edict."These are indeed sad tidings. Oh, let not these oppressors be allowed to persevere in their wrongdoing. I entreat the immediate and effectual interposition of his Sheriffian Majesty and of your Excellency. The Imperial Edict went forth as a beam of light to my co-religionists in Morocco. Suffer not, I implore you, its brightness to be dimmed, its effulgence to be extinguished. It imparted joy and promise. Permit not that joy to be destroyed, that promise to remain unfruitful."Hundreds of thousands of human beings in Morocco raised their voices in praise and thankfulness to God for the benign desire of his Sheriffian Majesty and of your Excellency to ameliorate their condition, and to remove from them oppression and suffering. Let it not be that their fond hopes are a vain shadow; that their cheering anticipations of a brighter future are a delusive dream."How great and how sacred are the prerogatives of Majesty! It directs its people's welfare, and their path is bedecked with flowers; it forbears to punish their oppressors, and that path is beset with thorns."I know full well, and have personally experienced the kindness of your august Sovereign and of your Excellency, and therefore I rely with firm faith on the generous promises which I have received, that the Imperial Edict should be promulgated throughout the Moorish empire, and its provisions strictly enforced."Happy, most happy are the nations dwelling in peace and security! Glorious, most glorious are the rulers to whose wisdom and humanity, inspired by Almighty God, the people look up for the perpetuity of these blessings."Condescend, illustrious Sir, to consider these my humble words spoken in the fulness of my heart and with most truthful earnestness."Deign to convey my assurances of respect to your august Sovereign, and to receive with favour my wishes for his and your health and welfare, and for the prosperity of the Moorish empire,—I have the honour to remain, your Excellency's faithful and obedient servant,"(Signed)Moses Montefiore."
"Grosvenor Gate, Park Lane, London,"June 1, 1864.
"To the Illustrious Oozier Sid Taib El Yaminy, Minister of State,Morocco, &c., &c., &c.
"May it please your Excellency,—My heart is deeply impressed with thankfulness to your Excellency for the kind letter which your Excellencyhas so courteously transmitted to me in reply to that which I had the honour to address to your Excellency on the 23rd February last.
"Since my return to Europe I had the honour, while at Madrid, to place in the hands of her Catholic Majesty the Queen of Spain, a copy of the Imperial Edict of your august Sovereign, with a translation in the Spanish language; and while at Paris, to place in the hands of his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of the French a like copy, with a translation in the French language; also on my arrival in London I had the gratification to present to the Government of my beloved Sovereign a like copy, with an English translation.
"The Imperial Edict of his Sheriffian Majesty has obtained a world-wide celebrity, and has everywhere received the eulogies to which it is so eminently entitled.
"The friends of humanity and civilization throughout the world entertain the earnest hope and belief that your gracious Sovereign, and that you, illustrious Sir, will cause that edict to be known and respected by all the governors and officials in the empire of Morocco.
"There is too much reason to fear that there exists a disposition on the part of some of these governors and officials to ignore or disregard the benign commands of the Sultan, and that they are acting in direct contravention of the Sheriffian Majesty's high and exalted intentions, that his Jewish and other non-Mahomedan subjects shall be permitted to enjoy the benefits so humanely secured to them by his Sheriffian Majesty's glorious edict.
"These are indeed sad tidings. Oh, let not these oppressors be allowed to persevere in their wrongdoing. I entreat the immediate and effectual interposition of his Sheriffian Majesty and of your Excellency. The Imperial Edict went forth as a beam of light to my co-religionists in Morocco. Suffer not, I implore you, its brightness to be dimmed, its effulgence to be extinguished. It imparted joy and promise. Permit not that joy to be destroyed, that promise to remain unfruitful.
"Hundreds of thousands of human beings in Morocco raised their voices in praise and thankfulness to God for the benign desire of his Sheriffian Majesty and of your Excellency to ameliorate their condition, and to remove from them oppression and suffering. Let it not be that their fond hopes are a vain shadow; that their cheering anticipations of a brighter future are a delusive dream.
"How great and how sacred are the prerogatives of Majesty! It directs its people's welfare, and their path is bedecked with flowers; it forbears to punish their oppressors, and that path is beset with thorns.
"I know full well, and have personally experienced the kindness of your august Sovereign and of your Excellency, and therefore I rely with firm faith on the generous promises which I have received, that the Imperial Edict should be promulgated throughout the Moorish empire, and its provisions strictly enforced.
"Happy, most happy are the nations dwelling in peace and security! Glorious, most glorious are the rulers to whose wisdom and humanity, inspired by Almighty God, the people look up for the perpetuity of these blessings.
"Condescend, illustrious Sir, to consider these my humble words spoken in the fulness of my heart and with most truthful earnestness.
"Deign to convey my assurances of respect to your august Sovereign, and to receive with favour my wishes for his and your health and welfare, and for the prosperity of the Moorish empire,—I have the honour to remain, your Excellency's faithful and obedient servant,
"(Signed)Moses Montefiore."
Two months later the Minister sends a most satisfactory reply, of which I also subjoin a translation:—
"Praise be to the only God.There is no strength and no powerbut in God the Most High.From him who is the servant of God, the Secretary of State,and the Noble Commander, whose name from God isSid Taib El Yaminy,to the beloved, wise, and most benevolentSir Moses Montefiore, Bart."After rendering praise to God the Most High, we beg to inform you that we have received your letter describing the gracious reception accorded to you by the different monarchs, their appreciation of the object which has been accomplished, and the advantages derived therefrom. All mankind will give thanks to you for the readiness and devotion to the good cause which you manifested by bringing the present under the special notice of the great Powers."With regard to your statement respecting the affairs of the Jewish subjects of our Lord, whom God may preserve in strength, we have to observe that they are his subjects, and he—may God preserve him and perpetuate his glory and greatness—does not like that they should be pursued by acts of injustice and torment in their unfortunate position; because God the Most High forbids injustice towards people professing our religion, and He likewise forbids injustice toward people professing any other religion."Our Lord—may God grant him support—has already commanded the inhabitants of all the other provinces in his Empire, that his Jewish subjects should be treated with kindness and strict justice, so that no wrong whatever be done to any of them. He also rebuked them (the inhabitants of all the other provinces of his Empire), by the power and strength of God, for the injustice they have done. We have not forgotten your polite attention, and the kindness evinced in your letter; we shall never fail to watch rigorously the proceedings of the officials in the provinces of our Lord, whom may God preserve."Completed in the month of Mohharam, in the year 1281 of the Hidjrah."
"Praise be to the only God.There is no strength and no powerbut in God the Most High.From him who is the servant of God, the Secretary of State,and the Noble Commander, whose name from God isSid Taib El Yaminy,to the beloved, wise, and most benevolentSir Moses Montefiore, Bart.
"After rendering praise to God the Most High, we beg to inform you that we have received your letter describing the gracious reception accorded to you by the different monarchs, their appreciation of the object which has been accomplished, and the advantages derived therefrom. All mankind will give thanks to you for the readiness and devotion to the good cause which you manifested by bringing the present under the special notice of the great Powers.
"With regard to your statement respecting the affairs of the Jewish subjects of our Lord, whom God may preserve in strength, we have to observe that they are his subjects, and he—may God preserve him and perpetuate his glory and greatness—does not like that they should be pursued by acts of injustice and torment in their unfortunate position; because God the Most High forbids injustice towards people professing our religion, and He likewise forbids injustice toward people professing any other religion.
"Our Lord—may God grant him support—has already commanded the inhabitants of all the other provinces in his Empire, that his Jewish subjects should be treated with kindness and strict justice, so that no wrong whatever be done to any of them. He also rebuked them (the inhabitants of all the other provinces of his Empire), by the power and strength of God, for the injustice they have done. We have not forgotten your polite attention, and the kindness evinced in your letter; we shall never fail to watch rigorously the proceedings of the officials in the provinces of our Lord, whom may God preserve.
"Completed in the month of Mohharam, in the year 1281 of the Hidjrah."
Sir Moses sent an address to the Spiritual Chiefs and Elders of the Morocco Jews, counselling them to inculcate in their poorer and less educated brethren, the necessity of uniform obedience and respect to the Moorish authorities. The danger that the Jews might lose some of the benefits conferred by the recent edict of the Emperor, by exciting the hostility of the Moorish authorities by too independent a tone in demanding the equal treatment with Mohammedans ordered by the Sultan, was mentioned in letters from Barbary, and Sir Moses, whose intercession had already done so much for the Morocco Jews, wisely counselled patience under petty injuries and submission to the authorities, as the best means of preventing the just and generous intentions of the Sultan from being defeated by the fanaticism of his Mohammedan subjects.