The Eighteenth Century: the Traditionalists 341

to last for more than a century, the same caution can be seen: among other
practical advice regarding the manning of fortresses, the preparation of cam-
paigns, and the paying of garrisons, Defterdar maintains that a field marshal
(serasker) should always consult with experienced people; this consultation
(meşveret), however, must not be made with just anyone but only with trust-
worthy and well-meaning men, although (U115, W129)

it sometimes happens that from an ignorant child or from a woman of

imperfect understanding there comes forth a correct opinion or a wise

answer that brings about good results.

As remarked earlier, the lengthy discourse on friendship that follows must be
seen as a supplement to this advice on consultation.

...

There are two points on which Defterdar and his circle differ significantly from
their predecessors, although neither is stated openly: one must read between
the lines to understand where these authors depart from simply reiterating ad-
vice that was either commonplace or too concrete. One such point, as already
noted, is the changed attitude towards the janissaries. The corps is, of course,
still described as having surpassed both the allotted numbers (and expenses)
and the required discipline; there is practically no political text from the late
sixteenth century onwards that does not contain such remarks. However,
whereas earlier authors had suggested taking harsh measures against the janis-
saries, either by the sheer application of force or by cunning use of divisions
within the military (as in the case of Aziz Efendi, for instance), Defterdar urges
caution, slow action, and consultation with janissary officers:

If reform be desired, there must be appointed a trustworthy and upright

and devout and circumspect person from among the experienced and

practical men who are managers of the corps ... But in this matter [the

expulsion of intruders from the corps] also there is need, after counsel

has been taken with the ministers of the government and well-wishers

of the sultanate, after consultation and covenanted agreement with the

spokesmen of the corps’ officers, that imperial orders on behalf of the

sultan be issued and carried out in accordance with their trustworthy

opinion. If there be agreement of hearts, it is to be hoped that this also

(with the help and aid of the Creator), will be slowly and deliberately

accomplished. On the other hand, it is impossible to put an end to these