The power of the Vizier had already been restrained. The Divan now resembled in form an European Privy Council of state: it consisted of twelve superior officers, whom the Grand Vizier was bound to consult on all important questions. One member of the Divan was especially appointed to collect certain indirect imposts, to be applied to the maintenance of the newly-raised troops; whose number was gradually increased by cavalry, and who formed altogether a considerable body.
It is unnecessary to speak further concerning the progress of these changes. In course of time, we may probably be enabled to obtain a knowledge of the work of Nuri, the historiographer of the Empire, during those years in which, according to all accounts, the new regulations (Nizami, Dschedid), were fully discussed. AVe shall then sec the connexion of events more distinctly than it is at present possible to do, judging merely from the accounts of European travellers and ambassadors.
It will here suffice to remark, how powerfully the exclusively Ottoman part of the Turkish Empire, the ruling body of religious warriors, was excited from the very commencement of his reign, by the projects of Selim III., occasioned by the results of the last war.
The spirit of reform with which the eighteenth century was inspired, affected even Turkey.
In this respect, Selim HI. may be compared with princes such as Gustavus III., Clement XIV., and Joseph II., or with statesmen like Pombal, Aranda, and Struensee: all more or less liis con-temporaries.
Having cited these names, it is needless to enlarge upon the dangers connected with undertakings of this nature, both to the Empire which they concern, and to the persons who venture to introduce them.
In Turkey, these dangers were of double force.
The general commotion of the higher classes must, in return, promote the desire for independence amongst the subdued nations. Difficulties of cpiite a new character could not but arise from these changes; and in fact, they did arise. The whole modern history of Turkey turns upon these difficulties; and to them, also, the movement in Servia must be attributed.
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