three o'clock in the
afternoon
Whether it was planned or not beforehand is a disputed point . It began in a quarrel between some Maltese and natives ; but this quarrel seemed to be accepted by the latter as a signal for a general attack , and they rushed from their houses armed with heavy sticks and knives and attacked the Europeans . Rumours had for some time been current among them that the Christians intended to conquer Egypt and to put down the Mahomedan religion , and in their excited state a spark caused an explosion . It was perhaps fortunate that it came when it did , and was confined to a comparatively small part of the town ; for had it spread over the whole city the loss of life would have been great indeed , for the natives had entirely their own way from three o'clock in the afternoon until seven in the evening . The police made no attempt whatever to put down the riot . The English and Italian consuls , immediately they heard what was going on , drove together to the governor 's to call upon him to send for the troops , and to take vigorous steps to restore order . They were attacked upon the way and both wounded , but they succeeded in reaching the governor 's palace .