§ THE LORD PRIVY SEAL AND SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES (THE EARL OF CREWE)My Lords, in view of last night's debate it might be interesting to the House if I read part of a telegram received this morning from Sir William Manning. I will give the general effect of the telegram, because there are reasons why it is not desirable to read the whole of it, if noble Lords opposite will excuse me. The telegram is dated from Somaliland on April 6. General Manning states that later news has since modified the information which he telegraphed on March 29. He says—
It is now stated that the number of friendlies killed was under 200, and that the rifles lost numbered fewer than 150. The Dervishes' loss was undoubtedly severe, and included the following leaders.He mentions three names which I think would not convey very much to your Lord-ships, but one of them at any rate was a very important leader of the Dervishes. He then says—It is still the intention of the Yahelli combination to make reprisals. They are in a strong position to carry out their intention. The tribes are now generally in a much better position to defend themselves than they were while we occupied the interior.Sir William Manning adds that it must be remembered that all sorts of exaggerated reports as to the doings of the Dervishes are current at Aden, and that for the sake of sensation such news is readily accepted there for transmission.