SIR—It is considerable interest that I write to you with respect to studies conducted some years ago by a certain M. Paul-Adrien Bourdaloue concerning the Isthmus of Suez. These surveys, having been brought recently to my attention have, in my cursory assessment, not received the consideration which I feel they merit. It is with a view to advancing the scientific proposals arising from these preliminary studies that I am given cause to write to you in order to solicit your interest and support with respect to the piercing of the said isthmus.
Napoleon's Campaigns in Egypt
Although the prospect of piecing the isthmus once generated great curiosity, notably when Napoleon Bonaparte campaigned in the Levant, I fear that the matter has waned in the intervening years and, with the Société d’Études de l’Isthme de Suez suspending its studies of the area, the research hitherto conducted may be lost. Whereas rail transportation seems decidedly to have captured the imagination of innovators and scholars alike – and, to be sure, the novelty of speeding across the landscape on roads of steel no doubt has a certain charm in comparison to the well-known feat of sailing upon the waves – the importance of seafaring ought not to be diminished.
Sir Frederick Wright-Bruce in Cathay
Indeed, so far has interest ebbed in the matter that a fellow veteran of the campaign against the Chinese, Sir Frederick Wright-Bruce, – whose acquaintance I had the pleasure of making on the journey to Cathay – now British Consul in Egypt, flatly rejected the notion of further studies in the region, citing a general lack of interest in the prospect and the slim chances of effecting a piecing of the isthmus in our lifetime.
Despite emphasizing my disagreement with his assessment, Sir Frederick was unmoved by force of reason, and held to his initial, intransigent position. It is on account of your diplomatic experience as French Consul in Cairo that I seek your particular advice and ask whether, in your assessment, the political situation in Egypt may permit the further exploration of the isthmus such that preliminary studies may be followed by thorough surveys and, should these prove favourable, by the securing of certain rights to pierce the isthmus by means of a canal.
Elsewhere in Egypt
In order that you may know my mind in this matter, I feel it appropriate to disclose that my interest in the isthmus stems from a scientific curiosity as well as from commercial considerations. It is no secret that the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company engages in brisk business with the East. Expeditious passage to these markets has been the subject of much discussion by the Board of Directors, which is prepared to finance a professional assessment of the feasibility of a canal between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. I am further authorized to disburse such funds as may be required to facilitate the permits and approvals which will need to be secured from the relevant authorities to advance this feasibility study. Entrusting the selection of excavators, researchers and scholars to your discretion, the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company is prepared to fund their research and comfortable accommodation in Egypt on the understanding that should they discover a feasible means for the piercing of the isthmus, that the firm will be apportioned a commensurate share of any future body incorporated for the purpose of the piercing.
Notwithstanding the general dearth of interest in the matter, as made plain to me by Sir Frederick, I maintain that the study of the isthmus of Suez remains of importance, and that through study a viable means of a piercing may be yet discovered. Moreover, I hope to benefit from your advice and to find in you a partner for advancing the proposal outlined above. Veuillez agréer, Monsieur, mes salutations distinguées.
Napoleon's Campaigns in Egypt
Sir Frederick Wright-Bruce in Cathay
Despite emphasizing my disagreement with his assessment, Sir Frederick was unmoved by force of reason, and held to his initial, intransigent position. It is on account of your diplomatic experience as French Consul in Cairo that I seek your particular advice and ask whether, in your assessment, the political situation in Egypt may permit the further exploration of the isthmus such that preliminary studies may be followed by thorough surveys and, should these prove favourable, by the securing of certain rights to pierce the isthmus by means of a canal.
Elsewhere in Egypt
In order that you may know my mind in this matter, I feel it appropriate to disclose that my interest in the isthmus stems from a scientific curiosity as well as from commercial considerations. It is no secret that the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company engages in brisk business with the East. Expeditious passage to these markets has been the subject of much discussion by the Board of Directors, which is prepared to finance a professional assessment of the feasibility of a canal between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. I am further authorized to disburse such funds as may be required to facilitate the permits and approvals which will need to be secured from the relevant authorities to advance this feasibility study. Entrusting the selection of excavators, researchers and scholars to your discretion, the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company is prepared to fund their research and comfortable accommodation in Egypt on the understanding that should they discover a feasible means for the piercing of the isthmus, that the firm will be apportioned a commensurate share of any future body incorporated for the purpose of the piercing.
Notwithstanding the general dearth of interest in the matter, as made plain to me by Sir Frederick, I maintain that the study of the isthmus of Suez remains of importance, and that through study a viable means of a piercing may be yet discovered. Moreover, I hope to benefit from your advice and to find in you a partner for advancing the proposal outlined above. Veuillez agréer, Monsieur, mes salutations distinguées.
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