KING EDWARD ON HORSEBACK.

New Zealand Mail, 21 February 1901, Page 16

KING EDWARD ON HORSEBACK.

The King was chief mourner at the Queen’s funeral, both oil his own and on the nation’s behalf. He appeared in different uniforms, -wearing the uniform

of an Admiral of the Fleet- during one section, and that of a Field-Marshal during another. This, presumably, was intended t« reflect- the majesty of the two Arms of the Service, each paying its tribute of grief through the people’s Sovereign representative. As we are told that the king rode on both occasions, th© accompanying little picture should be of interest-, as it shows' his Majesty as he is not often seen —on

horseback. The uniform in this case is perhaps among the most elaborate the King wears, being that of Colonel-in-Ohief of the T&ith Hussars. It is a mass of gold embroidery and colour, and worn on a figure such as Edward’s is imposing to a degree. The trappings of the horse are quite in keeping, gilt leaves appearing on all the leather work except the reins, and the saddle resting on a magnificent tiger skin. As the King looks in this uniform, he would no doubt- look in that, of a. Field-Marshal, though it is hardly likely the head gear in the latter case would have the same fine effect, or -show the King’s features to the same advantage. It may be mentioned that- King Edward is not fond of horse riding, though it is on horseback that he looks best. The German Emperor, who rode beside his uncle at the funeral, almost “lives” on his horse, which it may be mentioned he rides as an adept, sitting him as though “a part of the saddle.”