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The bombardment was then "suspended" while General Sarrail allegedly demanded $500,000 in gold and the surrender of 3,000 rifles by prominent Damascenes, under threat of opening fire anew. Naturally those of whom the demands were made "undertook to fulfill them." The situation became "calm."
Results. Acting upon information received from their consuls at Damascus, both the U. S. and the British Governments were reported to have made "unofficial representations" to the French Foreign Office, demanding that the life and property of their nationals in Syria be protected. Premier Painleve and his Cabinet, realizing that some action must be taken, then "summoned General Sarrail to report on conditions in Syria, at Paris." Competent observers opine that a "Civilian Governor" will replace the "Military High Commander in Syria"; and that under cover of this "change in policy" Sarrail will be got out of the way without "dishonor" and without offending his potent friends of the "Left." It is widely felt in France that "the tactlessness in handling Syrian affairs has been all but criminal."
Meanwhile the Permanent Mandate Commission of the League of Nations, in session at Geneva, has asked the French Government for "Official comment" on "numerous petitions, complaints and protests" which have been filed with it concerning the bombardment of Damascus.
*The party upon which the new Government must rely for support (see below).