IS QUEEN VICTORIA A BUDDHIST?

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XI, Issue 24, 5 October 1883, Page 5

IS QUEEN VICTORIA A BUDDHIST?

Somej years ago, when Queen Victoria presented a Koman Catholic taxpayer, ratepayer, and British subject (who waa supposed to have political rights and equality) with an official position, the English Press with one loud voice proclaimed Her Majesty as predisposed towards Papists. The hue-and-cry was so loud and long that no other subject dare show his nose for a public place in his native country, and was only permitted the privilege of paying taxes and tithes. Now we see that Queen Victoria has ordered and presented a religious ring, about which we hear a good deal. Thhis ring, whose existence may be worthy of placing on record in Notes and Queries, has just been made in London for the King of Siatn. It will be used by His Majesty once a year for religious ceremonies, as head of the Buddhists in Eastern India. It is stated to be the largest ever made. The centre stone, which is of great lustre, is 1 £ inches in diameter, and is encircled by ruby, emerald, sapphire, and five other stones, cut cabochon shape. The mounting is very light and elegant, though strong, and displays emblems of the mystic faith of Buddhism. Suppose Her Majesty, in her goodness of heart, were to present to Cardinal McCabe r new ring, what would the British Buddhists say ? The fact is, the only jewel, after all, that England lacks is consistency in Church and in State — yes, even in society and sects !— Italian Times.