On one occasion when the rice had been handed round from man to man it was found after the fight was over that the Mullah's hand was very badly cut. His followers began to murmur, and wonder how the giver of this charmed rice could himself be wounded in battle. The Mullah was, however, smart enough to invent a story about having seized a bayonet and purposely cut himself. His simple followers believed him, and continued to use the wonderful rice. The withdrawal of this crafty priest from active opposition will be a great assistance to the British cause, which has also been greatly strengthened during the last few days by the friendly attitude of the Ameer of Afghanistan. We told you how the British suspected that this ruler had helped to stir up the rebellion: at one time it was decided to send him another letter, calling him sharply to account for his double dealing. Before any such action could be taken, news was brought that the Ameer had caused the arrest of forty important tribesmen, who were supposed to have assisted the mad Mullah in rousing the people against the British. This action has had such an excellent effect on the tribes that many people suppose Great Britain's frontier war is over. The English have still a great deal to do on the borders of Afghanistan. For the sake of their future power in India they dare not let the natives think they can rebel against England without being severely punished. Whether the revolt is really over or not, a force will have to be sent against the rebellious tribes to teach them proper respect for British power. * * * * * General Woodford has arrived safely in Spain, and is to be presented to the Queen Regent in a few days. He has, in the mean while, met the Duke of Tetuan, and has been very pleasantly received. A great sensation has, however, been caused in Havana by the publication of a letter from General Azcarraga, the present Spanish Prime Minister. In this letter the minister says that the Spanish Government will not listen to any demands from the United States, that no one in Spain thinks our country has any right to interfere in the Cuban question, and that rather than submit to American dictation, Spain is prepared to declare war. In the letter it is also said that if it becomes necessary to declare war, Spain is confident that she will have the support of the nations of Europe. It is argued that if we succeed in freeing Cuba we will be certain to try and get Canada and Jamaica away from England, and the French possessions from their mother country. The General asserts that if the United States succeeds in freeing Cuba, European rule in the New World will soon cease to exist.