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THE PLAGUE IN EGYPT 43
the Capitulations must be left for the British
Government and the European Powers to deal
with. Speaking of his object in visiting
Egypt, he said it was to arouse the public
conscience and to organise national committees
similar to those formed in every European
country, with the object of dealing with the
problem of the white slave traffic by international
co-operation. Prom the leaders of
the various foreign communities he received
a sympathetic welcome, and on all hands a
disposition to help was strikingly indicated.
A considerable number of the most influential
Mohammedans associated themselves with
his mission, and to their efforts he is much
indebted. In Cairo and Port Said the
Mohammedans displayed similar friendliness,
and differences of nationality and
creed were overcome in the formation of the
committees.
The white slave traffic in Egypt is now
mainly recruited from the women of Eussia,
Austria, and Prance ; but until a year ago
the young women of Greece were the principal
victims.
Mr. Coote had a long conversation with
Lord Kitchener on the subject, and found him
most sympathetic. Lord Kitchener expressed
great interest in the question as it affects
Egypt, and impressed Mr. Coote with confi-
dence that he is to be relied upon for practical
support whenever occasion arises to exert his
official position. He has a real live interest
in the question, and discussed it from many