The Letters of Lord and Lady Wolseley, 1870-1911 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1922. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... to join the Expedition. The story that runs from mouth to mouth is that Mr. G. said, "What Expedition? I know of none. I suppose you mean the troops that are temporarily quartered in Egypt under Lord Wolseley." Mr. G. came to call here one day last week, but I am glad to say I was out. Mr. Goschen has paid me several visits lately. I hear from the A. Russells that he is much alarmed at the retreat on Abu Klea, so many people will be. I think it a pity that the Government did not publish your telegram at once explaining your reasons (I have seen them) to allay this panic, but I think as the retreat is a necessary consequence of the fall of Khartoum and Gordon's death, and your telegrams show it to be so, they prefer to let the public think that it is, on the contrary, the result of your finding the enemy in greater strength than you expected. Take my advice and try as much as possible to let the public into your reasons for doing things. You have them with you. The Government, for their own party ends, will conceal anything that emphasises (as this does) the result of their procrastination. Do you understand what I mean? Mr. Goschen tells me he thinks very clever, but the opinion of him amongst men of his own age and standing is that he is not over straight and not to be much trusted. He is a press man, and Goschen says lets out Cabinet secrets to the press, in return for which they write articles which he inspires. He then works Lord Hartington by means of those articles, which he represents as public opinion. He likes to hold the threads of power. I tell you all this for what it is worth. A warning does no harm, and you are as wary as he is and much cleverer. Last Friday I went with Mrs. Grant to Hampton Court, and we were walking back through the Gardens when ...