FELL ON HIS HEAD.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20234, 19 February 1934, Page 1

FELL ON HIS HEAD.

Hold Gav? Way When Climbing Crag. NARROW ESCAPE IN 1930. (Received February 19, 12.30 p.m.) BRUSSELS, February 17. An official investigation shows that King Albert, after climbing the spurs of tne local hills, reached a spot known as Vieuz Bondieu and tried to climb this 250 ft crag. It has a concave face with many small projecting foot and hand holds. One of these was split by recent frosts, and the King’s hold gave way. He crashed on his head and was killed instantly. His pince-nez were found near the spot where the fall began and his haversack was a few yards lower. King Albert for years was a keen and enthusiastic mountaineer, and spent many climbing holidays in Switzerland, always incognito. Last October he climbed the summit of Monte Costello in the Italian Alps, and this was only the sixth time that the peak had been conquered. King Albert had a narrow escape in the Dolomites in 1930 When ascending one of the highest peaks in pouring rain, a small rock dislodged under his feet. Fortunately the guide held on to the rope and saved King Albert from falling over a 1500 ft precipice. NATIONAL GRIER Tolling of Beils Awakens Country. (Received February 19, 12.25 p.m.) BRUSSELS, February 18. The tolling of the church bells awakened Brussels to a tragic da} r . The Cabinet’s proclamation, posted on walls throughout the country, read : “ A terrible accident has robbed Belgium of the King of- whom she was so proud. The nation's grief is heartfelt at the lor* of its King, statesman and soldier. It has occurred at a time when the country he saved looked to him more than ever to guide Belgium through her perils. Belgium has lost a guide, prop and incomparable servant, but with the aid of Divine Providence the Crown Prince will continue his father’s noble work.” M. Vandervelde, leader of the Socialists, declared: “ Although I am a Republican, I feel a sentiment that is stronger than friendship for one so loved by the masses.” Until daylight hardly anyone in Belgium was aware of the tragedy. The nation is now plunged into mourning. The Crown Prince automatically succeeds his father. No change in general policy is expected, as it is believed that the Crown Prince will carry on on the same lines as his father. Flags were half-masted throughout the country and all carnival festivities have been cancelled. Brussels is like a city of the dead. All the theatres and cinemas are closed and the usual Sunday afternoon sporting and social activities have been cancelled.