A Weird Scene.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 225, 30 September 1901, Page 3

A Weird Scene.

FUNERAL OF THE EMPRESS’ FREDERICK.

The Kaiser's torchlight procession to accompany the body of the late Empress Frederick to Cronbcrg aroused extraordinary curiosity, according to cables to American papers.

The route along which it passed was invaded by thousands of persons. The display of military force was almost

startling. Large numbers of police were drafted in from Frankfort, and the officials were distraught with the complex orders given at the last moment.

“ Never had I seen such polico and military precaution t-akens before,” said one writer.

“ All the villas were guarded by soldiers back and front. No one was allowed to leave until the procession had passed. The police searched the bushes and all the dark corners with lanterns, seeking for hidden anarchists.

“ The route was lined with troops and forest guards, in their picturcsquo green costumes, and societies of veterans. “ After we had waited half an hour, through the arcade of trees came such a glow of light that our eyes were dazzled. “ First came a strong body of troops bearing hundreds of torches, then a dozen stalwart men bearing the coffin, with an equal number to relieve them from time to" time, on account of its immense weight. •• The coffin was covered with red and yellow cloth, embroidered with gold and surmounted with a large gold crown. " It appeared, as it were, in the midst of a circle of dancing flames of torches, which gave out a heavy smoke. •• The Kaiser, who was pale as a sheet, walked, surrounded by a brilliant staff, in the light of the torches. He wore a field-marshal's uniform and carried an ad-interim marshal’s baton.

Then followed the Crown Prince, Frederick William, Prince Eitcl Fritz, and other princes, as well as Count Von Waldersee, in Uhlan uniform. These were followed by a long line of soldiers. When the procession had passed darkness again settled down over the road. ' “ The coffin was placed in the church at Homborg, and was guarded by four officers of the late Empress’ regiment. “ The Emperor drove back at the full speed of his grey Hungarian horses to Homborg Castle," followed by his sons and suite.”