AND A KING'S.

Press, Volume LXII, Issue 12442, 3 March 1906, Page 7

AND A KING'S.

The approaching wedding of the Prince**; Ena of Battenbnrg to Alfonso, King of Spain, naturally arouses an interest in the marriage ceremonies of that country. The last Royal Spanish wedding was on November 27th, 1879, when tho then King Aifonso married Archduchess Maria Christina of Austria. Thay were the futuro father and mother of the present King. The preparations were most gorgeous and elaborate. As tho King proceeded to the church., he was escorted by trumpeters and kettledrummers, who were followed by mailbearers. Then came 24 riderless horses which had never been ridden. They were of priceless value and carried rich, ancient trappings. Next came 14 carriages, containing grandees of Spain, who are the proudest people of the land. Tho magnificence of the surroundings paled before the colourings of their liveries and trappings. Then followed 11 unique gala carriages, containing members of the aristocracy. Some of tTiESo carriages were centuries old. The Royal carriage was drawn by eight cream-coloured horses, with gold and crimson har"- , ns and ostrich plumes. Following this came tho Royal aide-de-camps and a brilliant staff of generals. The bride wore a magnificent white satin and lace gown, embroidered with gold fleur-de-lys ,and a lace mantilla, surmounted by diamonds. All the ladies of Spain still wear these mantillas, which are of white lace or grenadine. The day after the wedding the King and Queen, accompanied by the Court, attended a bull-fight.