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 two opposing parties in England which hold different views as to the policy which should be pursued in this "Eastern Question." Mr. Gladstone, the great and sagacious statesman, has always insisted that whatever the result, _the Christians in Turkey should be protected by Christian Europe_; and that the British policy should be a straightforward and resolute dealing with the Sultan. That is, if promised reforms are not carried out in good faith by him, the Powers should fulfil their threats to destroy his authority in his Empire. About forty years ago the opposite policy was advocated (if not created) by another great leader and statesman, Lord Beaconsfield; and has ever since been the one pursued by Great Britain. Its main purpose is to keep the wicked old Ottoman Empire undisturbed, and to shield it from the indignation of Europe. Here and there the Sultan is compelled to loosen his grasp upon some exasperated and suffering province like Crete, which is set up as an _autonomous_ (or self-governing) principality (or kingdom), under a double protection from Turkey and Europe. This looks kind, and as if the Sultan was being severely dealt with and punished. But at the same time the knowledge of Turkish atrocities is being carefully suppressed; and harrowing stories of cruelties in Bulgaria a few years ago, and in Armenia to-day, are listened to with smiling incredulity; because it is inconvenient to take notice of these things while the situation in the East is critical. Some people think this is a very crooked and shuffling policy for the great British Empire to pursue. And others, that the Gladstone policy is sentimental and dangerous.