WHEN THE KING WAS A BOY.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 18, Issue 42, 24 May 1907, Page 7

WHEN THE KING WAS A BOY.

The King, no doubt, thinks often with a strange pang of regret of those early days in his life when he and his brother, who afterwards lie-' came Duke of Saxe-Ooburg and Gotha, were, inseparable companion. 4 *. Prince Alfred, whose popularity in youth often threatened to surpass even that of the Prince of Wales,- was a sturdy little fellow, and was much given to asserting his rights in the family circle. This masterful propensity, as may well be supposed, sometimes brought him into direct conflict with his older brother, and on one occasion, when it so happened that Prince Alfred had proved himself to be not “second host,” the Prince of Wales became greatly exasperated with him, “Ah !” said he, “you may think it’s all right ; but just wait till I’m King, and then look out !” “Wait till you are King, did you say ?” was the unhesitating reply. “Why, before the time comes for you to be King this country will be a republic.” “Indeed !” loftily responded the Prince of Wafles, making a mock obeisance to his somewhat tantalising brother. “Yes,” said Prince Alfred, bowing in return, and showing that even at that early age he was not devoid of real humour, “and what’s more, I shall be the first President !”