BERLIN REJOICES

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 7, 3 October 1927, Page 9

BERLIN REJOICES

HINDENBURG’S EIGHTIETH BIRTHDAY ■ MANY PRESENTATIONS (Rec. October 2, 5.5 j.m.) Berlin, October 1. The streets are gay with flags for President Hindenburg’s eightieth birthday, the Govern- ' ment Buildings showing the Republican colours, while many private houses hoisted the old Monarchist flag. The veteran, when he , woke up, was surprised to find the place transformed into a paradise of flowers by German horticulturists. Deputations followed in ~ rapid succession, making presentations, the chief one, at President Hindenburg’s own wish, being a fund for those distressed by the war. Dr. Marx, on behalf of the Government, presented a magnificent porcelain service. Industrialists handed over a deed of assignment of his family estate. It is rumoured that family gifts included a badly-needed new silk hat. Many political prisoners were granted an amnesty.

THE WAR GUILT SPEECH yiTAL SENTENCE CUT OUT (Rec. October 2, 5.5 p.m.) Paris, October 1. M. Briand tojd the members of Cabinet a curious story, based on a conversation with Dr. Stresemann in reference to President Hindenburg’s Tannenberg speech. He said the original draft shown to Dr. Stresemann contained a sentence in which it was emphasised that President Hindenburg was speaking in his own name, not as President of the German /Republic, but as an aged soldier soon to meet his God. This vital sentence was cut out when the speech was delivered, and without Dr. Stresemann being informed.