acrossasiaminoro00chiluoft

170 ACROSS ASIA MINOR ON FOOT
and schoolmaster had hurried in, for the arrival of
guests is an important event in such villages,
more especially those occupied by Armenians. In a
country where the few newspapers are thoroughly
bad, it means definite news of the outer world,
definite news of what is being done in Europe on
behalf of Armenians.
More than any other race of Asiatic Turkey
Armenians take an interest in European afiairs.
Much often depends for them upon the fluctuations
of European politics. To these people the Powers
of Elurope appear as a number of dim figures ever
conferring how and when they shall help Armenians.
Such help is often long-deferred, and sometimes does
not come when needed most ; and when it does come
may be worse than no help at all and involve the
race in further trouble with its oppressors. But help
invaluable has been given from time to time, and
building on this foundation assistance from Europe
and America is always thought likely.
An English or American visitor is welcomed in an
Armenian village and regarded as representing his
country to a degree almost embarrassing. In such a
village you discover the reputation of the British
name perhaps as nowhere else. The British name,
indeed, carries with it a reputation in Asiatic Turkey
that cannot be understood by those who have not
witnessed its influence. Of one who claims to be
English much is expected and taken for granted.
You are just, you are truthful, you stand by the
spirit of your promise and do not seek refuge in the
letter, you are incorruptible, you are liberal and no
haggler, all because you are English—and among
English I also include Americans, for they share the
reputation. It is a reputation that has not been
gained hastily ; it is the outcome of native experience
in the intercourse of generations. This reputation
of ours has been made largely by a long succession
of British officials— by Ambassadors and their subordinates,
and still more by British Consuls.