THE KING AND THE EMPIRE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 11564, 30 January 1901, Page 4

THE KING AND THE EMPIRE.

The unofficial statement that the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York will come to Australia, as previously arranged, will surprise and touch all hearts. Neither the Australians, who are more immediately interested, nor ourselves, who looked forward to the Royal visit with enthusiasm, would have pressed the matter under the present sad circumstances. It was unanimously thought that the visit wouldJae postponed, and that the opening of the first Federal Parliament would lack the presence of the Heir-Apparent. If our King should thus set aside the

family sorrow in which we so deeply j share, and ; send his ; son to ; express j his sympathy with colonial development, while grief is still fresh in their hearts, it will justly impress the Empire. The probability is that the statement will be found correct. Our Royal Family has consistently devoted itself to the national welfare, • and while we could not admit that our feelings : would be less warm if the long expected visit were can- : celled, we shall certainly be greatly gratified by the renewed opportunity for loyal expression which it will afford us. And we shall feel it the more as a token that to King Edward, as to Queen Victoria, Greater Bri-. tain is near and dear.