THE PRESS AND THE KING.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XXX, Issue 9641, 16 January 1903, Page 4

THE PRESS AND THE KING.

« In the Pall Mall Magazine the Hon. Chaunoey M. Depew writes:— "ln no countiy m the world is the press more free and independent than m England, and among no people has it greater intluence. There is not the slightest suspicion of its opinions or attitude being governed by fear or favor. The ability, exhaustive discussion, and literary finish of its articles are unexcelled. No partisan can complain of the support which party organs give their side, or of the free hand with wliich they attack their political opponents. The independent journals are" merciless critics of the men and measures they disapprove of, and not at all delicate m exposing the follies or weaknesses of those m high places. But there is one exception, and that is the King and Royal Family. No lese majeste protects the sovereign, and he needs none. , I read all the London papers during the Coronation pei'iod. It was a time, if ever, for comment and caricature. Both would have found uncomplimentary or critical expression about the ruler and his surroundings m any other capital. Newspapers are frequently prosecuted or suspended elsewhere, and editors prosecuted. But the pulpit is not moro loyal, if I may without irreverence use that comparison, than the press to the King. His daily life is given in* full detail ; but so reported that, whether on ceremonial occasions, or at the play, the opera, the racecourse, or tlie yachting contest, or as a country gentleman on his estate, or at a social function or m the domestic circle, the occasion is graced, elevated, and dignified by his presence. His speeches arid briefest public utterances are put before the public as the condensation of all thftt can be said on the subject, and the most important deliverance given to the people. This is not done m any spirit of sycophancy. There is not a trace of toadyism about it. It all reads as if the family simply loved to record and took pride m the doings and sayings of its elder brother and head, because he always said and did exactly tlie right thing. It is difficult to define this journalistic attitude, because it appeal's so natural and uninspired. It finds no parallel anywhere. Every member of the Royal Family is presented, whenever reported, with* the same favorable and flattering newspaper portraiture. No visitor can grasp the situation, for it is the unique distinction of the London press, .and indeed of the provincial as well. The effect, of this daily pleasing picture of their sovereign on the people as they read their morning and evening papers is simply incalculable m stimulating loyalty and affection for their King and Queen."