WORLD’S GREATEST STAGE

Taranaki Daily News, 9 February 1928, Page 9

WORLD’S GREATEST STAGE

HOUSE OF LORDS OPENING MOST BRILLIANT SPECTACLE THE UNCHANGING RITUAL By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received Feb. 8, 7.30 p.m. A. and N.Z. London, Feb. 7. To-day’s spectacle at the House of Lords on the opening of Parliament was the same as it has been for centuries. The actors, both great and small, change, but the ritual is unchanging. Peers in scarlet and ermine were seated on the floor of the chamber, while bejewelled and gorgeously gowned peeresses were arrayed at the sides. Bisbops ranged in a row, diplomats sat tier on tier in their space, and lawyers in great wigs were grouped around the woolsack. The most magnificent piece of stage management in the world was here to be seen. Rays of light from the great chandeliers picked out the dazzling coronets and ropes of pearls worn by the peeresses. Then, suddenly, without warning the lights were extinguished and a lovelier, dimmer radiance fell over all through the stained glass windows, while the entire assembly awaited the King. Five minutes elapsed, the chamber being filled with subdued conversation. Then the lights at half-power glowed softly like golden oranges. On the very stroke of midday the King, wearing his massive crown and Royal robes and surrounded by great officers of State, slowly entered the chamber. The lights flashed up and the chamber was flooded with unrivalled magnificence, everybody standing. The King bowed slowly, took his seat on the throne and said: “My Lords, pray be seated.” Pages of honour draped the King’s train like a red cascade over the steps, and pomp and majesty was at its height. There was no hurry or bustle. Everything was in place and in silence the brilliant gathering sat awaiting the arrival of the faithful Commoners. At Black Rod’s summons, when the Commoners had filed in and taken their places, the Speech was handed to His Majesty who, sitting, read it in a clear voice which echoed through the chamber.