A cry of "To arms" was raised, and the standard of the Cross floated before the camp of the infidels.
Signs and omens of a coming general insurrection appeared on all sides; there was no lack of prodigies, visions, or popular rumours, and the Mohammedans became possessed with the idea that the last hour of their rule in Greece had struck.

Ali Pacha favoured the general demoralisation; and his agents, scattered throughout the land, fanned the flame of revolt.

Ismail Pacha was deprived of his title of Seraskier, and superseded by Kursheed Pacha.

As soon as Ali heard this, he sent a messenger to Kursheed, hoping to influence him in his favour.
Ismail, distrusting the Skipetars, who formed part of his troops, demanded hostages from them.

The Skipetars were indignant, and Ali, hearing of their discontent, wrote inviting them to return to him, and endeavouring to dazzle them by the most brilliant promises.