The Prince’s Visit.

Hokitika Guardian, 6 February 1922, Page 3

The Prince’s Visit.

I «*)*«<■ jrsTiurjei ANT) N.2. CAllt.E ASSOCIATION. 'Received This Day at 1.30 p.m.) DELHI, February 4. j A meeting of the Prince with the Veiled Begum of Chopal, the only woman ruler in Asia, was one of the most interesting features of the RoyaJ ■ tour. This remarkable old lady met j him at the lla.lway station and dflove at his side in an open Barouche to j Lalkothi palace, which was placed at his disposal. She subsequently made a ceremonial call. The Prince saw nothing of his hostess, save two searching dark eyes, regarding him steadfastly through a triangular slit, for the Begum, in conformity with Mohammedan custom, never shows her face. The Begum is a little woman inclined to plumpness with marked dignity, and • bearing, with a clear decisive voice. ■ When she received the Prince at the Station, she gave him an .ungloved hand and welcomed him in a few word* in perfect English. The drive through the capital provided a striking demon 1 stration of loyalty. There was no signs :of a hartal or political discontent. ; Great crowds lined the gaily decorated route. The ceremonial reception at the palace, was the scone of much brilliancy. The Begum and Prince mount . ed a dias and held a Durbar. The y sat j on silver thrones and abound them were the Heir Apparent, the Begum’s sons, grandsons, and grand-daughters. The hall was filled with high officials georgeotisly robed. Two attendants in bright yellow coats, stood behind the thrones. The Heir Apparent came forward and presented his offering to tho Prince, and was followed by umbers ef the Government with their gifts, the officers thrusting froward tho hilts of their swords as they made homage. Subsequent a state banquet was hold in the Durbar Hall and it provided a repetition in a sumptuous setting of the elaborate ceremonial. Next morning the Prince journeyed to Tachnaria on a hunting trip, and succeeded in shooting a tiger and gambhur panther. He returns to Bhopal on Tuesday morning and leaves at night for Gwaliar.