DEAD AND LIVING KINGS

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 386, 11 May 1910, Page 5

DEAD AND LIVING KINGS

PROCLAMATION OF KING GEORGE V. THROUGHOUT THE EMPIRE KING EDWARD DIES OF OVERWORK SOME PATHETIC INCIDENTS.

THE DEATH CHAMBER. ' j SIMPLICITY OF THE SURROUNDINGS. London, May 9. Queen Alexandra was holding King SEdward'B hand when he passed away. The death chamber is not draped. 1 The only addition since the Monarch's death are a few white flowers and violets, toeing Queen Alexandra's last offering. The King lies upon a low single bed trith a plain wooden frame under an ordinary white coverlet, his arms being outside and crossed at the wrists. His face is still bronzed as a result of his Biarritz excursions.

Nurse Fletcher and one of the Royal pages are watching by the bedside. Sir Luke Fildes, the artist, sketched the dead King. Mr. J. S. Sergeant, artist, also visited the death chamber. A CHRISTIAN PARTING. THE LAST SCENE OF ALL. "I SHALL NOT GIVE IN." London, May 9. The Bishop of London, preaching at St. Paul's yesterday, said:—"Those .present tell us nothing could have been more Christian than the passing of the King. He who had faced death twice faced it for a third time undismayed. There was a quiet family gathering at the bedside, and the committal .prayer ■was uttered by the Archbishop a mmute! before His Majesty died. The blessing was pronounced, and when all was over in the hushed room all was Christian there." The Daily Mail reports that in reply to the doctors, who tried to dissuade him from exercising his duties as Sovereign, King Edward's last words, uttered at 1 o'clock on Friday, just before he became comatose, were: "No, I shall not give in. I shall go on. 1 shall work to the end." • FUNERAL ON THE 20th. COUNTLESS TRIBUTES. THE PRIMATE'S IMPRESSIVE WORDS. London, May 9. The body of King Edward will lie in state at Westminster Hall on May 17, 18 and 19, and the funeral will take place on the 20th. Countless tributes were paid at memorial services at the churches of all denominations yesterday throughout Great Britain. The Primate, at Westminster Abbey, gave an impressive discourse from Psalm 94, verse 7. He emphasised the ■valuable national asset in the note of unity struck by the common ownership of the central home. This was overwhelmingly the case when that home was genuinely endeared to the hearts of the people. Those listening on Saturday to the quiet words of the brave, resolute, straightforward man, rich in the .purpose of a simple disciplined life, called in the prime of his .manhood to assume duties so overwhelming in greatness, have cause for thankfulness and hope. ' The Primate then quoted the official text of King George's words: "The earnest object of my life will be to follow my father's footsteps and uphold constitutional government in these Teals. I am deeply sensible of my very heavy responsibilities, and I know I can rely on the Parliament and people of these islands and the dominions overseas to help me to discharge those arduous duties with their prayers that God may grant me strength and guidance. lam encouraged by the knowledge that I have in my dear wife a constant helpmate in every endeavour for the people's good."

THE KING'S LAST INSPECTION. THE WIDOW'S TITLE:'" THE QUEEN MOTHER." THE REAL CAUSE OF DEATH. HEART TROUBLE, NOT BRONCHITIS. London, May 9. King Edward on Saturday at Sandringham inspected the gardens, kennels, paddocks, foals and yearlings. He then went to Anmer, a new estate, to see the club rooms built for the villagers. On Sunday he inspected the improvements in a little ivy-clad church, in which a memorial window was being erected in memory of the late Mr. Montague Guest. In the afternoon he was at the Home Farm dairy. On Monday he met and chatted at the garden gates with pensioners. One old woman, came to her door and courtesied. King Edward waved her in out of the rain, saying: "Keep yourself warm, Granny." The Rev." Henry Scott Holland, preaching at St. Paul's, referred to Queen Alexandra as the Queen Mother. It is understood she is entitled to this instead of Queen Dowager. It is announced that Queen AlexwAra is well. After the service at the Chapel Royal she individually thanked King Edward's suite for their devotion to him. Queen Alexandra and Princess Victoria personally received the household im the death chamber when they farewelled the King. The Daily News, on the authority of one in the closest touch with the Court, gtates that King Edward was optimis•Mc on Friday, and stated: "I am •11 right." In the evening he urged the Queen to attend the opera. The News adds: " Unfortunately it was the heart weakness rather than bronchitis that caused death."

NEW ZEALAND'S MESSAGE. THE KING TOUCHED. IRELAND'S LOYALTY. London, May 9. Sir Arthur Bigge has written to Mr. Hall-Jones that the King is deeply touched with the communication addressed in the name of the people of New Zealand, both British and Maori. He commands you to convey his expression of sincere appreciation for sympathy in this moment of his great sorrow, and his assurances that he will never •forget the affection and loyalty displayed on the occasion of his visit to their country. This recollection strengthens the conviction that he can ever rely on the loyal attachment to his throne and person of the people of New Zealand. The National Council of Free Churches, the Institute of Journalists and many bodies have condoled with Queen Alexandra and family. Since the death of Queen Victoria no event has occasioned such deep and genuine sorrow in Edinburgh. King Edward's association with Edinburgh dated from his youth. Most loyal messages have been received from Dublin and other Irish cities. The Times' Dublin correspondent says Ireland is mourning. The unexpected news established an almost unprecedented bond of sympathy between all parties and creeds. The Nationalists of Ireland respected Queen Victoria, and the Unionists of Ireland loved her, but the Unionists and Nationalists alike loved King Edward for his qualities of King and man. There was no thought of politics in Ireland's regard for Edward, none in the chorus of sympathy and sorrow wherein to-day, from Lord Aberdeen and the Nationalist 'Lord Mayor of Dublin to the humblest peasants of Connemara, the whole people are united. There has been a general recovery on the Stock Exchange. Consols .ire quoted at 81%'.

THE POLITICAL SITUATION. "NOTHING ALTERED." ■ , • London, May 0. Union newspapers emphasise the changed situation brought about by the death of King Edward and the complexity of the problems awaiting Mr. Asquith. The Daily News says the constitutional controversy between the two Houses is unchanged. A change of monarchs alters nothing, because the question as to the possible use of the prerogative of the Crown has never been personal. The papers adds that the issues are so simple and definite as to exclude compromise. EGYPTIAN FEELING. Cairo, May 9. Europeans and Natives of Egypt alike deplore the death and eulogise the good works of King Edward. Prince Mohamed will represent the Khedive: at the funeral. A CONSIDERATE ACTION. London, May 9. West End theatres and opera managers met and resolved to close until after the funeral. King George, on hearing this, immediately icquested that the theatres be closed only oh the day of the funeral, in order to prevent large numbers being thrown out of employment. The Danish nation are .preparing a golden wreath for King Edward's coffin. U.S. SENATE ADJOURNS. Washington, May 9. The Senate at Washington adjourned as a mark of respect, after passing a resolution deeply deploring King Edward's death and the bereavement of his people. His death was a loss to the whole world, on account of his wise and kindly influence for peace and good government. PESSIMISM IN INDIA. Bombay, May 0. The wise and .benignant sympathy imbuing King Edward's last proclamation touched a responsive chord throughout India, but now a feeling of pessimism is showing itself at the untimely loss of an influence so priceless at this juncture. OFFICIALS TO BE RE-SWORN. Received May 10, 10.45 a.m. Melbourne. May 10. Official intimation has been received that the Governor-General, State Governors and Ministers of the Crown will require to be re-sworn. GATHERING OF THE ROYALTIES. London, May 9. King Haakons and his wife have arrived at Buckingham Palace. King Alfonso of Spain is coining to Kensington Palace. His wife (Queen Ena) is unable to make the journey. King George has invited the Kaiser to Buckingham Palace, which offer was accepted. GERMANS' GBTEF. London, May 0. The news of King Edward's death arrived in the midst of the jubilee celebrations of the Deutscher Verein. The president, in moving an expression of deep sorrow at his death, said the whole German community received the sad news with deep grief. There were no more loyal subjects of King Edward than the Germans in Australia. The

motion was carried in silence, the gathering standing. A concert was postponed. PUBLIC OBSERVANCES. MESSAGE TO THE NATION. FROM KING GEORGE. London, May 10. King George, in a message to the nation states:— "Knowing so well by beloved father's feelings, I am sure you would be going contrary to his wishes if there were any interruption in the enjoyment of the public during Whitsuntide. I hope, therefore, the general mourning will not prevent people taking the usual advantages of the opportunities of rest, relaxation and amusement during the coming days." AUSTRALIAN CONDOLENCE!! UNFEELING FOOTBALLERS. Sydney, May 10. Numberless messages of condolence have been sent from all parts of the Commonwealth, including those from the Turkish, Chinese, German and French consulates, the Japanese Admiral, the Governor of New Caledonia and the head of the Salvation Army. The day of interment will be proclaimed a day of mourning and a public holiday. There is much indignation among residents of Broken Hill over footballers refusing to forego their matches on Saturday. THE NEW KING AND QUEEN. SOME ANECDOTES. London, May 0. To-day's newspapers contain pictures, biographies and anecdotes of King George and Queen Mary, .and recall

To-day's newspapers contain pictures, biographies and anecdotes of King George and Queen Mary, -and recall George's service on the Bacchante and his round the world tour on the Ophir, the greatest Odyssey ever made jby a future sovereign. They recall many recent visits to Parliamentary debates and talks with leaders of all parties, also speeches, including one in December 1905 on "Wake up, England."

Prince Edward is now Duke of Cornwall and Rothesay, thereby succeeding [ to £BO,OOO yearly, which will accumulate during his minority.' Similar accumulations enabled Khijg Edward to buy Sandringham. Newspapers recall General BadenPowell's story of the Duke of Cornwall's youthful declaration that when King he would make laws that "no one shall cut puppies' tails, • there shall be no more sin in the country, and no more shall anyone use bearing reins." GEORGE, EMPEROR OF INDIA. Calcutta, May y. The Governor-General of India has proclaimed George Emperor of India at Simla. One hundred guns will be fired at all Indian military stations to-night. 1 ROMAN CATHOLICS AND THE OATH.I THE WORDS OBJECTED TO. MR. | ASQUITH NOW ASKED TO REMOVE THEM. London, May 10. Mr. William Redmond (Irish Nationalist M.P. and brother of the Leader of the Redmondite Nationalists) has written to the Prime Minister. Mr. Asquith, reminding him of the debate (cabled on 15th May last year) on the Bill introduced in the House of Commons by Mr. Redmond to remove Roman Catholic disabilities. Mr. Redmond recalls the strong view! then expressed by the Prime Minister, and supported in all quarters of the House, in favor of removing from the ] King's declaration (in taking the Ac-! cession Oath) words that are offensive! to Roman Catholics. ! The writer now asks the Prime Minis-! ter to take .steps to have these words removed from the declaration before the new King takes the Oath. THE WORDS OBJECTED TO. The Bill introduced in the House of j Commons last year by Mr. Wiliam Red-1 mond (Nationalist member for East Clare) for the removal of Roman Catho-1 lie disabilities was on lath May read a, second time in the House by 133 votes j to 123. The Bill was then sent to a committee of the whole House, which meant shelving it. The Prime Minister, Mr, Asquith, in his speech, approved of the opening of j the Lord Chancellorship and the Vice-; royalty of Ireland to Roman Catholics. He said the Accession Declaration was the flimsiest and most unnecessary safeguard. Mr. Asquith suggested the appointment of a committee to find a form, of declaration that would be inoffensive to any religious, susceptibilities. j The Accession Oath which was taken by King Edward states that: "I, Edward, do solemnly . . . declare that I- do believe that in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper there is not any transubstantiation of the elements of bread) and wine into the body and blood ofj Christ . . and that the invocation or adoration of the Virgin Mary, or any | other saint, and the sacrifice of the . Mass, as they are now used in the Church of Rome, are superstitious and idolatrous."

A revised form of the Oath was suggested some time ago by a Select Committee of the House of Lords. This simply required the King to declare his j disbelief in transubstantiation and the j invocation of saints without the use of! the words "superstitious and idolatrous." j The declaration that the words of the; Oath are used without equivocation,! mental reservation, or dispensation i granted by the iPope .is also dropped. 1 The revised form was, however, so much criticised that it was withdrawn, though it had received the assent of the then Archbishop of Canterbury. i ' i KILLED BY OVERWORK. Received May 10, 10.50 p.m. London, Mav 10. The British Medical Journal] after j diagnosing the King's illness, says that; if the King could have been induced to spare himself more he would probably have lived many years longer. KING AND QUEEN OUT DRIVING. LOOK GRAVE AND ANXIOUS. QUEEN OF NORWAY'S SAD HOME COMING. Received May 10, 11.15 p.m. London, May 10. When driving in a carriage, both King 1 ' George and Queen Mary looked grave : i and anxious. 1

Queen Maud of Norway, on alighting from the train, appeared pale and sor- 1 rowful. She impulsively took her brother's arm as if seeking someone to

Bustain her while making her tragic return to her father's home, but, th* obligations of Royalty asserting themselves, she advanced alone to receive the sad official welcomes. THE DEAD MONARCH. THE LAST TO VIEW HIM. Received May 10, 1115 p.m. London, May 10. ' | The shell was kept open to enable Queen Maud to view her father's features, but the last to look upon the dead Monarch was Queen Alexandra. "THE CRIMSON THREAD OF KINSHIP." ROYAL DUKE TO ACT AS GOVERNOR OF CANADA. Received May 10, 11.5 p.m. London, May 10. The Daily Express says that alter his proposed visit to South Africa the Duke of Connaught is likely to succeed Earl Grey as Governor-General of Canada, in accordance with King Edward's particu-i lar wish. | The appointment for the first time of a Prince of the blood royal as Governor of one of the oversea dominions is a new link in the powerful chain binding the colonies closer to the Motherland. "KING EDWARD LIVES AGAIN" IN HIS SON GEORGE. Received May 10, 11.5 p.m. London, May 10. The Times, commenting on what it describes as the Archbishop of Canterbury's noble sermon in Westminster Abbey, said that King Edward, although dead, lives again in the manly charac-l ter and tomner at once revealed to hisl pronle by bis son. Thus, in the veryl midst of death we are assured of a re-' liewal of that life and hope which should! never desert the nation even in its sorest trials. OUR DIVERSE EMPIRE. PROCLAMATION READ IN FOUR LANGUAGES.

Received May 10, 11.5 pm. I Singapore, "May 10. { The proclamation at Singapore was read in four languages—English, Malay, Tamil and Chinese. THE VETO QUESTION. KING GIEORGE' DISPARAGE©. UNPATRIOTIC LABOR MEMBERS. Received May 11. 12.15 a.m. Berlin, May 10. According to the newspapers Tageblatt Vossiche. Mr Barnes, M.P., who is visiting Germany, stated that the death of the King would render the nosition worse at home than abroad. King: Edward, he said, had indeed not definitely consented to the creation of new' peers, but declared his desire to do; I everything to ensure a satisfactory setI tlempnt of the difficulties. King George I was a friend of the Tories. Hence he was unfavorably disposed towards Germany. Mr. Henderson. M.P., confirmed this statement, adding that the death of Kins; Edward would make fresh elections certains, because his successor would consent to the necessary steps only as a result of a fresh declaration of the people's will to restrict the Lords' rights. London, May 10. The Times' Berlin corresnondent states that owing to the publicity of those statements obtaining in Germany he quotes their textuality with a view |to calling the attention of Britain thereto I DEVOTIONAL SERVICE. i THE ROYAL FAMILY IN THE DEATH i ROOM. i '■ Received May 10, 11.15 p.m. London, Mav 10. King Hack on and his Queen attended a brief devotional service in the death chamber. | Kins: George, Queen Mary and the . Dowager Alexandra, the Princess Vic- ' toria. the Princess Royal, the Duke of j Fife and his two daughters were present. ; BENCH AND BAR. "A WORKING KING." Received May 10, 10 20 p.m. 1 London, May 10. i Judges have sworn allegiance to King George. Lord Alverstone paid a tribute' to King Edward, and said that King George's words had touched the hearts of the nation. { ■ The Attorney-General re-echoed the Chief Justice's remarks. | I Sir Samuel Evans. K.C., also eulogised the late reign. Sir Rufus Isaacs (Solici-. tor-General), associating himself on be-i half of the Bar, made similar eulogies. I describing King Edward as "a working King." j LINERS AT SEA RECEIVE NEWS. J THE WONDERFUL WIRELESS Received May 10, 11.5 p.m. [ London, May 10. ! All liners at sea were informed of the death of the King ,bv wireless, audi they signalled the news to smaller ves-' sels. I THE KING AND IRELAND. i i MR. O'BRIEN'S TRIBUTE. I • I j Received May 10, 10.20 p.m ! ■ London. Mav 10. J Mr. William O'Brien, speaking in Lon-j don. said King Edward's title of "peace-' maker" was a prouder one than any l amount of military conquest. Nowhere | was he a truer neaeemaker than in Ire-; land. When the story of his gtvat schemes of national reconciliation of lflo-2 and 1008 wore fully told it would be found that if those benign measures for national iustice and reconciliation were not blotted out the last trace of onmitv between Britain and Ireland: would vanish. It was not through King' Edward's lack of delicate tact and 1 brave, generous •trust in the aspirations' of the Irish people that withheld these, results. j KEIR HARDIE. ' \ HARPING ON ELECTIONS. | Received May 10. 10 10 n.m. { London, Mav 10. Mr. Keir Hardie. in a speech at Preston, said that with pprfect sincerity he believed that since King Edward was' enthroned lie had added dignity as trustee of a great nosition. Though his dentil nostnoned the election, he personally regretted it. believing it best in the interests of a nermanent settlement to have the election os soon as possible.

RUSSIA AND BRITAIN. Received Mav 10, 10..').') p.m. St. Petersburg May 10. The Duma sent a warm udegi-ain to the Speaker of the House of Commons, hoping the bonds of friendship of the two countries would continue to develop and strengthen. M Isvolsky (Foreign Minister) addressed the House, eulogising King Edward's contribution to the restoration of trustful and friendly relations, which at present constitute one of the firm foundations for the peace of the world MINOR ITEMS. Received May 10, 11.15 p.m. Washington, May 10. President Taft is considering the precedents with a view of designating Mr. Roosevelt «• special United States Ambassador at the King's funeral. London, May 10. King Edward was the only British King who died at Buckingham Paiaee. Berlm, May 10. Prince Henry will accompany the Kaiser to London. Tokio, May 10. Every house in Tokio is hung with crossed flags of Japan and Britain. Staves draped with black are before all dwellings. •Berlin, May 10. The battleships of the German High Sea. Fleet each fired a salute of twenty - •ne guns. London, May 10. Reading of the (Proclamation in South Africa, Canada, Newfoundland, West Indies, Hongkong, unci elsewhere evoked demonstrations of popular fervor and loyalty and the singing of the National Anthem and much cheering for King George. Reuter's agent says the Indian community in the Transvaal manifested sincere grief at the King's death. Durban, May 10. Natives in the vicinity of Durban connect the death of King Edward with Halley's comet, which is clearly visible. They believe the comet is a chariot sent to carry the King's soul to heaven. Capetown, May 10.

The newspapers in Cape Colony suggest that if the Duke of Cojmmght opens the Union Parliament the heirapparent should accompany him. Buenos Ay res, May 10. There is to he ten clays' national mourning in Argentina. London, May 10. The Navy is ordered to wear mourning for half a year. The playing of bands in public is suspended, likewise bugle salutes. Sydney, Last Sight. The Government has declared the 20th May a public .holiday, and that it be observed as a day of mourning. f THE PROCLAMATION IMPRESSIVE SCENES IN LONDON. London, May !). The proclamation of King George as, King was made in London and other cities this morning. Following a fanfare by the State trumpeters, the Garter King-at-Arms, Sir Alfred Scott-Gatty, at St. James's Palace, proclaimed George the Fifth I King of Britain and the Dominions Beyond the Seas. Enormous crowds joined the Garter King-at-Arms in shouting "-God Save the King." , ' A band then played the National An•them. Escorted by an imposing cavalcade of Life Guards, the Garter King-at-Arms proceeded to Charing Cross, Temple Bar and the Royal 'Exchange, ai each ' of which places the proclamation was J repeated with the same ceremony. Seven thousand troops lined the route, which was crowded. Artillery fired accession salutes in St. James's Park, and the flags at the Tower of London were hoisted to the tops of the masts, where they will remain for the rest of the day. The children of King George watched the ceremony from the gardens of Marlborough House. The proclamation was also read from the front balcony of Friary Court, where Victoria was presented to her people at the outset of her reign. Amongst those present were Mr. Winston Churchill, Mr. Lloyd-George, Air. Lewis Harcourt, Mr. Pierpont Morgan, the headquarters staff of the Duke of Norfolk, headed by collegors, heralds and .pursuivants, making a brilliant gathering. When King Edward's death was first mentioned the crowd uncovered, and remained bareheaded. Lord Rosebery and Lord Kitchener, with the four' young Princes in sailor costume, appeared at the garden wall, when a man in the crowd unexpectedly started the National Anthem. The Princes, Lord Rosebery and the crowd in Pall Mall all joined' in the anthem. King George and Queen Alary did not make their appearance, but watched the proceedings from Marlborough House windows. The Lord Mayor and aldermen ivere stationed at Temple Bar, where a silkcord was stretched on either side of the Griffin. The crowd was greatly impressed with the old-world ceremony. 'A great multitude of citv men proceeding to business congregated outside the Royal Exchange a nd" cheered and sang the National Anthem. Similar proclamations and demonstrations are taking place in the provinces. The Earl of Meath, in a letter to the papers, suggests that it will probably be in consonance with general feeling that all .public demonstrations and expressions of rejoicing contemplated in connection with Empire Day should either be abandoned or postponed till the autumn. Tt will probably be unnecessary to interfere with tlie educational side of the movement.' aim" schools' .fing-hoistinff miffht be halfmast, as a sign of the Empire's grief. King George has been proclaimed at the Legation in Pekin in the presence of representatives of all nations. IN AUSTRALIA. THE GOYFRNOR-GENERVL UNWELL. Sydnev. Mav 0. George was proclaimed King at Melbourne and Adelaide to-dav. At the former place the proclamation was by gazette. Lord Dudley being too unwell to make the proclamation in person. AIR. FISHER'S CONGRATULATION. Received Afay 10, 2-20 p.m. Svdnev. Mav 10. King George was proclaimed at noon from the steps of Parliament House in the presence of a great gathering. The streets and all vantage grounds' in the vicinity were crowded. The proclamation was followed by the firing of the i Royal Salute. Perth. Alav 10. ' The proclamation of King George

was made yesterday at Perth. Tings were hoisted at full-mast till sunset, when they were half-masted again. THE COMMOXWEALTH'S MESSAGE. THE NEW AISTKAIJAX COIXAGE. Melbourne, Last Xight. Mr. Fisher's cable congratulating King George on his accession expresses the hope that his reign will be iheppy, long, memorable in human progress, and marked by peace amongst the nations of the world. Peculiar interest attaches to the issue of the silver coinage of the Commonwealth, bearing the head of King Edward. So far £.3!),000 worth has been issued. Probably the bahnee will he withheld pending consultation with the Imperial authorities. XEW ZEALAND CEREMONIES. WELLINGTON. Wellington, Yesterday. Business places in the city to-day were in conspicuous mourning, the G.P.O. and the Government Buildings being abundantly draped with purple black. The proclamation was read by Sir Joseph Ward from the steps of the old Parliament Buildings, the Governor being unable to be present. There was a large gathering of representative men. Subsequently the Mayor read the proclamation to the citizens in the Town Hall. The weather was gloomy. WANGANUI. Wanganui, Yesterday. The proclamation was read at noon in the Drill Hall in the presence of 3000 people. Short addresses were also given by the Mayor of Wanganui, the member for the district and the chairman of the Gonviile Town Board.

A similar ceremony was held at Wanganivi East, where the Major of that borough also gave a short address. Fire and Church hells were rung and flags throughout the town were flown fullmast, and shops were closed for several hours. AUCKLAND. Auckland, Yesterday. The proclamation of King George was read by the Mayor in Albert Park in the presence of seven to eight thousand people, despite the threatening weather, A similar ceremony took plaice at the various suburban boroughs. All public schools were closed for the day, the cadets taking part in the A'arious proclamations. DUXEDIN. Dunedin, Yesterday. ' Several thousand people assembled at the Town Hall at noon to hear the proclamation read by the Mayor. Then the Town Clerk read the King's message to the people of Xew Zealand, after which "God Save the King" was sung. All shops and hotels wore closed. OAMARU. Oamaru, Yesterday. The Mayor read the Royal proclamation from the steps of the Town Hall at noon in the presence of a large crowd of citizens, notwithstanding that the morning was wet. The hand played the National Anthem and the people cheered the new Sovereign. HOKITIKA. Hokitika, Yesterday. There was a large assemblage for the reading of the proclamation of the new King. Many 'of those present were wearing mourning. The official attendance represented all the local bodies, and all the local clergy were also present, as well as Bishop Grimes, who is on a visit to the district. Deputy-Mayor Dr. Mac Andrew read the proclamation, and the town hand played the National Anthem. Cheers were given for King George and Queen Mary. OX H.M.S. PIONEIER. Auckland, Yesterday. Whenever a British Sovereign ascends the Throne the proclamation of the new monarch is read by the Commander on each of His Majesty's war vessels, which are all extra-territorial and integral portions of the British Empire. In accordance with this custom Commonder Blunt, of H.M.S. Pioneer, now lying at Queen Street Wharf, this morning read the proclamation to the crew of the vessel. Meanwhile the (S8 guns, as a mark of respect to the memory of the dead Sovereign, were booming from the maiin deck at minute intervals.

A large number of people assembled at the wharf, whilst the Mayor, the Hon. Geo. Fow]ds, the Hon. Dr. Findlav, Mr. Justice Edwards and several prominent citizens were on the vessel. Commander Blunt, having read the proclamation the ship's flag was hoisted to the staff head, the bugle sounded the Admiral's salute, this being in lieu of the first .bars of the National Anthem (no band being present), arms were presented and a Royal salute of 21 guns was fired. The Admiral's salute was again sounded, the assembled sailors, troops, dignitaries and citizens I gave three rousing cheers lor His Ma- | jesty King George the Fifth, and the I guests of the vessel adjourned to the Commander's cabin, there to drink the time-honoured toast of "The King." IXVERCARGILL. Tnvercargill, Last Night. Business places in Tnvercargill were closed to-d.av between 11 and 1 o'clock, ■and at noon'the Mayor (Mr. W. A. Ott) read a copy of the proclamation of Kim: George from the balconv of the Town Hall, in front of which there had assembled some three thousand citizens. Flags which had been at half-mast out of respect to the memory of King Edward were hoisted to the masthead at noon. 1 On the balconv were Lady Ward, Mr. J. A. Hanan, M.P.. members of the Tn vercargill Borough Council, the Blnf Harbor Board, the Southland Education Board, the Hi<rh Schools Board, and other local bodies, in addition to a number of ministers of the rmspel. The Chamber of Commerce to-day passed a motion of condolence and adjourned. OBSERVANCE OF BIRTHDAYS. Dunedin. Last Night, j At a meeting of retailers to-day it was agreed that in future the King's Birthday (3rd June) be observed as a holidav. ' and that a* 20th May. the day of King j Edward's funeral, is to be observed as a. holiday, the usual holiday on Empire | Day (24th May) be not observed this! year. I The nth of -November will drop outofy the list of holidays.

THE KIXG AXD <j EEN. THANK NEW ZEA-AXI). Wellington, Last Night. The Governor has forwarded to the Prime Minister the. following message from the Secret hit of State:—"Please accept and convey to the -Ministers and people of New Zealand the grateful thanks of their Majesties the King, the Queen, and Queen Alexandra find other members of rhe Royal Family for tho expressions of sincere and loyal sympathy contained in vour telegram of 7th May." FIRK BOARD ADJOURNS. " ChrUtv-hurch, List Xight. The Fire Hoard adjoin- \\ this evening after passing the folh ~ing motion: "That this Hoard desires o record its sense of the grievous toss i.:.it the British Empire has sustained by the death of His Most Gracious Majesty King Edward VII., who by his wise and benefloent rule has conferred numerous benefits not only on the Empire but on humanity."

■MESSAGES PIH'RIXG IX. "KING" MAHUTA'S CONTRIBUTION. Wellington, Last Night. Messages conveying sympathy and regrets continue to pour into the Prime Minister's office by scores. Many have come from Maoris, the following being from "King" Malmta':— "Greetings to you. Great is the grief and lamentation of the tribes because of the death of King Edward the Seventh. Greetings to you. Sir Joseph, Ward, the Premier of New Zealand. Kia ora to yon in the .sun's meridian" (the acme of power). FOOTBALLERS' WANT OF RESPECT. * Ohristchurch. Last Xight. On Saturday last the Rugby Union fixtures here were not postponed, and comment has been made in regard to the disrespect to the late King. In an interview the president of the Union (Mr. G. H. Ma soil), who v#as absent from town on Saturday, was reported to have expressed regret that the matches were played and to have blamed the referees for not stopping them. At the meeting of the management committee of the Union this evening Mr. Mason explained that he certainly had expressed regret that the matches were not postponed, but the remainder of the alleged interview, in which ihe was made to place blame on the referees, was practically the invention of the writer. JL.THE CEREMONY AT NEw/ PLYMOUTH. 7* PROCLAMATION READ BY THE MAYOR. Yesterday was Proclamation Day, and, in compliance with the request of his Worship the Mavor, the flown observed a holiday for an hour before and after noon. By twelve o'clock a#oro\vd of somr twelve to fifteen hundred people hac( gathered in front of the Post Office, 1 where, below the clock tower, a platform had been erected. The Taranaki Garrison Band, under Acting-Conductor J. Richards, headed the volunteers and junior cadets in their march from the Drill Hall to the Post Office. LieutColonel 01;ey, V.D., officer commanding the Taranaki battalion, was in charge. The Taranaki Rifles paraded under Captin Fletcher sind Lieutenant Willis; and the Taranaki Guards under Captain Mills and Lieutenant Boon. ChaplainMajor Evan* and StafF-Sergeant-Major Sanderson were on the staff. Major Sandford, V.D., commanding the No. 1 Battalion, was in charge of the cadets, with Captain-Adjutant Johnston and Quartermaster-Captain Bary on his staff. The cadets mustered 107 strong, officered as follows:—Central School, Captains Mcllroy and Bocock, Lieutenants Day and Sullivan; West End, Lieutenant Evetts; Fit/roy, Lieutenant Mackie.

The volunteers and cadets having been . I formed up to surround the dais, his j Worship the Mayor (Mr. G. Tisch) and Mrs. Tisch tool? their seats, supported ; by the Hon. T. Kelly, M.L.C., Messrs. 1 , H- Okey, M.P., \Y. T. Jennings, M.P., 1 and B. Dive, M.P., members of the Borough Council, and the chairman of tjto Harbor Board. I As the town clock chimed the hour of noon the New Zealand ensign, which had been drooping at half-mast on the flagstaff overhead, fluttered to the peak, . and blew out to the full. His Worship j then read- the ttrder-in-Counoil and the f Royal Proclamation fas published in | these columns yesterday morning), de- I livering them clearly and distinctly, i The words "God Save the King" were ! the signal for the unfurling of a motto j "Long Live the King" stretched across j the face of the tower. The troops came / to the Royal Salute, and the band played# the National Anthem. Three cheeral were then given for His Majesty King • George the Fifth, at the call of tha ' Mayor, an<' the proceedings were at am end. The Garrison Band played at the) head of the return processio.i to the Drill Hall. , —. l IXGLEWOOD. Wrote our Inglewnod correspondent yesterdav: All schools in and around Ingle- ' wood closed to-day, and the day was observed as one of public mciming. The Post Office -was dosed from 10 a.m., and the Telephone Bureau during the whole of the day. At the request of the Act-ing-Mayor all places of business closed < from 11 a .in. to 1 p.m. Shortly before 12 noon the Acting-Mayor, Mr. G. W. : Bennett, ascended the Post Office stent, accompanied l>v several borough coutt- ' cillors and other public men, and in ft ,< short but tellin? speech referred to the sad calamitv which had befallen the nation, and brielly outlined the object of '' their presence. At 12 o'clock exactly. the Acting-Mayor read aloud the Pro. elamation, to large crowd, who stood < uncovered throughout the reading. At ' the conclusion the Town Band struck up ! ; the National Anthem, which was fol- ' « lowed by three rousing chcrs from the ;J crowd, ied by the Mayor. The cburdt' • i | bells were then tolled and all flags were £ run up to tlie masthead, where they ifr qj mained until sunset. , >*«s MAGISTRATE'S COURT ADJOURNED. J A tribute of respect to the memory 4C Ills late Majesty was paid at the ope»« fi ing of the Magistrate'^ : Gourt yester* ' J day morning, Bench.' and .Bar standing* Mr. L. G. Reid, S.M., stated that as till* '.-i was the first occasion on which th®",4j Court had been formally opened BUMP : a| King Edward's death it only fittiMajj to the memory of llin lftte Majesty tbal||9 the Court should be adjourned for fl week. .T4>b attributes

I till 1 late Killer were so well known that it was unnm-ssu.ry and out of place for him hi iiuikc any long speech on this occasion. The late King would live in men's memories as one who had been ■well described as the faithful friend of universal peace. To his attributes he added a charming personality that endeared him to all with whom he came in contact. It was especially to be regretted that at this .stage of the nation's history we should have to mourn his sudden demise.

As president of the Taranaki Law Society, Mr. JU. Hutchen respectfully and reverently concurred with Mr. Reid's remarks. To the great courage, wisdom, and modesty possessed by the late King were added a deep knowledge of statecraft and, above all, a, steadfast integrity that maue him a tower of strength to the nation. In so pre-eminent a way did he possess the qualities that made for the strength and peace of the nation that to him might well be applied the words that were spoken on the death of the hero of Waterloo, "The last great Englishman is low."

Mr. T. S. Weston stated that as the oldest member of the Bar in Xew Plymouth he wished to express the profound regret that everybody in the world felt at the death of King Edward, who was indeed a man of men, a ruler of rulers. His loss would be regretted by every part of the world and all the people therein. It would indeed be a long, long time, in all human probability, before we saw his like again. King Edward had inherited the qualities of the late Queen Victoria and had worthily followed in his mother's footsteps and carried out her instructions and precepts, and die hoped to see these qualities in our newKing. New Zealand was a colony of Queen Victoria's, her infant colony, born in her lifetime, and grown up partially in the late King's life. It was remarkable that in his last days King Edward had received in audience our new Governor. That fact would be remembered for ever by the .people of this Dominion. Whatever our new King might be, he had before him the instructions and example of Queen Victoria and King Edward. All felt for Queen Alexandra in her forlorn estate, and sorrow would go out to her.

The Court then formally adjourned for a week, _...■, _?

THE LATE KING. INCIDENTS OF HIS LIFE. THE BACCARAT CASE. In the winter of 1890 many rumors were current concerning a cause celabrs in which the Prince was to be called as a witness. He (had #nce before 'been examined in Court concerning the Mordaunt divorce, in 1870. It may be said at once that the Prince emerged from this affair—the Tranby Croft scandal—with no discredit. Sir William GordonCumming, an officer in the Guards, brought an action for slander against Mrs. Arthur Wilson, Mrs. S. A. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Lycett Green, and Mr Berkeley Levett, who had accused him of cheating, at Tranby Croft, the Wilsons' residence, near Hull. The trial commenced in June, before Chief Justice Coleridge, and the Prince of Wales had •a. seat on the bench. The Court presented the appearance of a theatre, the bench and galleries being filled with gaily-dressed ladies, who used their opera, glasses freely. There was a great 'oar" retained on each side. The case for Sir W. Goi'don-Cumming was that he was "playing on a system," the accusation being that he had performed the trick known as "la pousette," by which a player at baccarat increases his stake after he sees that the cards are in his favor, or the coup has been declared. When the cross-examining counsel produced a document signed by Sir William, admitting Ms guilt, which had been witnessed by the Princeof Wales, the baronet said he had been hopeless of convincing those around him of his innocence, and that he desired for his own sake and that of others to avoid a scandal. The Prince gave his evidence on the second day. He deposed that when, as banker, he questioned Sir William about the largeness of his winnings, he did not. think he had been cheating, but he admitted in cross-examination that in advising the baronet to- sign the document he thought he was acting most leniently. As th« Prince was leaving the box, a juryman asked him if he ever saw Sir William «heating, arod! whether he believed he was guilty- The Prince said that, as Banker, he could not see foul play; and as to the second question, Sir William's accusers being so numerous, he could' not but believe them. After other evidence, the trial occupying ten days, the jury returned a verdict for the defendants. In 1891 the Prince celebrated his fiftieth birthday, and it was computed that in his half-century of fife he must have been prayed for aloud in Anglican churches alone at least a hundred million* timeSi A SPORTSMAN. A review of the late King's life would not be complete without a reference to his qualities as a sportsman. Reared in the sphere of an English gentleman, he cultivated and became expert in many lines of As a child he 'went deer-stalking in the Highlands with his father; later he hunted with the harriers; and at fifteen he was the best shot of the family. It is said that he was one of the most finished billiard players in England. Latterly he had not hunted, hut his love for a good, horse remained, whether its performances were over timber or on the flat. He did not commence an active association with the "sport of kings" until 1877. For some years his colors—purple body 'with gold braid', scarlet sleeves, and black velvet cap with gold fringe—were by no means conspicuous; but during the more recent years he had won the One Thousand Guineas, the Derby, the St. Leger, the Ascot Cup, the Eclipse Stakes, the jockey Club Cup, and many other important events, the stakes alone won from 1594 to 1898 amounting to over£Go,ooo.

His best year was in 1890, when, thanks chiefly to Persimmon, his winnings amounted to .C2(i,SID, while in the following year they totalled£l3,77o. There never was a more popular w - in than Persimmon's victory in the Derby of 1890. The Prince was also fortunate as a yachtsman, and lie won the Queen's Cup at Cowes Regatta no fewer than four times, besides numerous other cups and trophies. CHARACTER.

As to the personality .of King Edward, all who met him agreed that he was of a free and genial disposition, of cheery good nature, and entirely unaffected by arrogance or ostentatious indication of his birth and dignity. He was,, above alt things., a cultured gentleman, and if he did not display any remarkable intellectual ability, it must be recollected that he had few opportunities of publicly demonstrating such a possession. In paraphrase of a .saying about another English royalty, it has been, said of the iPrince that he seldom did the wrong thing, and always said the right one. He certainly possessed tact, and had lon)( and intimate Knowledge of public affairs, both from the outside and inside. Several times he devoted attention to Royal Commission work, and on the Royal Commission on the Housing of the Poor in 1893 he did zealous work. As the arbiter of masculine fashion, the Prince served «. useful purpose in the encouragement of home industries. And in social matters, it was said of him, as Henry V. said of himself: "If he be not the fellow of the best king, thou shalt find him the best king of good fellows." THE NEW KING

CAREER OF " THE SAILOR PRINCE."

New King George V. was born at Malborough House in 18G5, seventeen months after his brother "Eddie" (as he always called the late Duke of Clarence). The two boys were educated at home, 'and afterwards i passed into her Majesty's training ship Britannia, where they were under the tuition of Mr. Lawles, once a. well-known naval instructor. They 'were taught to handle boats, and as much of the art and nrystery of seamanship as was necessary to prepare them for entering a cruising ship of war. The two cadets spent two years on the Britannia, and, as they had to obey the discipline of the ship like the rest, their lives were not altogether strewn with roses. Prince George, however, found some compensation for the rigid discipline which a lad would consider oppressive in taking the opportunities provided for "larks," and thus threw a. little more pleasantry into ins life aboard ship. The Princes had no indulgence except that they were allowed a cabin to themselves.

After two years' service in- the Britannia, Prince George and his brother made their way into H.M.S. Bacchante, a steam corvette under the command of Lord Charles Scott, and here again they had to "rough it." They did their duty in all weathers and at all hazards, like the other young "reefers" on board. Indeed, Prince George was voted an excellent fellow by the other middies in the gun-room mess. The lads toured the world w,ith Lord Charles Scott, and Prince George gained quite a reputation oi his return for the racy humor with which he used, to speak of his adventures. The Bacchante went to the Mediterranean, thence to the West Indies and hack, arriving at Barbadoes on Christmas Day, 1879. VOYAGE ROUND ;THE WORLD.

In January, 1880, Prince George was promoted to be a midshipman. The two brothers next visited Madeira, the Canaries, and Monte Video, Falkland Islands, Australia, China, returning to England: by way of the Suez Canal, the Princes making a tour of Palestine en route. This memorable cruise served to open the eyes of the boys as to the rerl value and importance of the British possessions beyond the seas, and young as they were the loyalty shown to her Majesty's Throne and person in every colony and dependency they visited strack them as being most remarkable. On, their departure from Queensland, the youngest of the Australian colonies, an address was presented to.them. It.may be interesting to quote the reply made by the young Princes: "Our present is, it is true, but a passing visit. But we assuredly hope, as does our father, the Prince of Wales, that opportunities may hereafter -occur, both for himself and for us, again to come amongst you, and to further witness the development~of this very extensive and promising portion of the Queen's dominions."

Of Prince George it is recorded thati wherever he went he brought away with him reminiscences of boundless hospitality and cordial welcome. On his hosts he left the impression of being an outspoken, light-hearted lad, less shy and dignified than Ms brother, but full of the liveliest interest in everything- that was going on, and bent on learning as much as he could from his travels. Prince George was promoted Sub-Lieu-tenant in 1884; and joined H.M.S. Canada, on the North American station, and in the following year, after passing his examinations with great credit, he became a lieutenant. • EARLY TRAINING. When he went to college he was found to be bright and intelligent, though, not particularly well trained. It is said that he had to be specially trained to make up for deficiencies, and his mother, the Princess, visited him very often to encourage him to be diligent. Attached successively to various ships, he was appointed in 1886 to H.M.S. Dreadnought, and afterwards to H.M.S. Alexandra, flagship of tfie Mediterranean, of which his uncle, the Duke of Edinburgh, was then Commander-in-Chief. In 1889 he was presented 'with his first command, that of torpedo : l)oat -No. 79, for the period of the naval manoeuvres, and while in eharge of .this little craft he was able to afford very efficient help to a vessel in- distress-. The (Prince qualified 'himself for the command of her Majesty's: gkinboat

Thrush, in wlix-h he sailed with a staff of ollieers and crew remarkable for being mostly a!! very young, like himself. He spent •■ •. ar on the North American station, veiling Canada and Jamaica. He \va.s promoted to lie commander upon his return to England in IS9I, and after staying with his brother in Dublin in the same year he contracted a dangerous fever. In the following year he commissioned the second-class cruiser Melampus, and took part in the naval manoeuvres. He was promoted captain of the Royal isavy in January, 1893. His latest command was H.M.S. Crescent, and during the commission in IS9B he visited many seaport towns of England and Ireland. The title of Duke of York was bestowed on him in 1892, and ho was also created Earl of Inverness and Baron Killarney. An invitation to -the Duke to visit Australia was conveyed to him through the Governor of Victoria in 1894, but his Royal Highness was compelled to decline. In November of the same year he visited St. Petersburg to attend the Czar's I funeral. In 1897 the Duke «nd Duchess I paid a visit to Ireland, 'where they were I received with the utmost enthusiasm in I all parts of the country. MARRIAGE.

Just before the death of the Duke of Clarence it was announced that he was engaged to the Princess May, daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Teck. The Duke of Clarence had not long been dead when it was rumored that the Duke of York had a great attachment to the Princess, and the subsequent announcement that the Duke of York was engaged to the Princess, therefore, created no surprise. The marriage was celebrated in July 6th. 1893, in the Royal Chapel, St. James's. It was a brilliant ceremony. All the members of the Royal Family 'were present, with the Czar, Czarewitch, and the King and Queen of Denmark. A son and heir was born to the Duke and Duchess on June 23rd, 1894, and was christened after the patron saints of the British Isles, ami his grandfather, Edward Albert Christian George Andrew Patrick David. On the occasion of his father to the throne the Duke of York became also Duke of Cornwall. His Royal Highness holds the grand cross of the Sultan of Turkey, and the grand cross of the Orders of the Black andßed Eagle of Germany. He is also Colonel of the Royal Sussex Hussars Yeomanry Oa.valry, and Colonel of the 3rd Artillery Volunteers. In 1894 he was elected an Elder Brother and Master of the Corporation of Trinity House, and is annually re-elected. He is also a Bencher of Lincoln's Inn, an L.L.D. of Cambridge, and a Fellow of the Royal Society.

... , ENGLISH RULERS INTERESTING STATISTICS OF REIGNS.

Ageat Duration Death, of Reign Name" Years Years. William I .... GO 21 William II 43 13 Henry I. .... .. .. 67 35 Stephen .. .. 50 19 Henry II .... 56 35 Richard I. .. .'. .... 42 jO John .... 50 17 Henry III 65 M Edward I. ..' .. .... 68 35 Edward II 43 20 Edward III .... 65 50 Kichard II .... 34 22 Henry IV .... 47 13 Henry V .. .. 34 9 Henry VI 49 39 Edward IV .... 41 22 Edward V 13 * 0 Richard III .. .. 35 2 Henry VII .. .. ' 53 24 Henry VIII .... 56 38 Edward VI .... Iff 6 Mary I. .... 43' 5 Elizabeth .... 70 44 James I. .... 59 22 Charles I .... 48 24 Charles II :. .. 55 25 James II .. .. 65 3 William III .... 51 13 Mary II .... 33 6 Anne .... 49 12 .... 67 13 George II. .... .... 77 33 George III .... 82 59 George IV .. ,. 68 10 William IV .... 72 7 Victoria .... 82 64 Edward VII .... 69 9