Ali, considering a demoralised race as easier to govern, looked on with satisfaction.
While he strengthened by every means his authority from within, he missed no opportunity of extending his rule without.

In 1803 he declared war against the Suliots, whose independence he had frequently endeavoured either to purchase or to overthrow.

The army sent against them, although ten thousand strong, was at first beaten everywhere.

Ali then, as usual, brought treason to his aid, and regained the advantage.
It became evident that, sooner or later, the unhappy Suliots must succumb.
Foreseeing the horrors which their defeat would entail, Emineh, touched with compassion, issued from her seclusion and cast herself at Ali's feet.

He raised her, seated her beside him, and inquired as to her wishes.