THE KING AS A GUEST.

King Country Chronicle, Volume V, Issue 354, 22 April 1911, Page 2

THE KING AS A GUEST.

Kin- Kdward is the ideal Sliest. Of this there is no doubt among: those whose privilege it has been to act as his host for even the briefest space of Time. He is considerate to a decree, and never allows his kingly rank to be unduly emphasised when paying a visit. His Majesty expects his ineognitc to be most strictly observed during these visits, and none of the guests may address him by his Title ; "sir" is the proper mode of approaching or announcing him, and "madam" suffices in the case of the Queen. No one, however, it is well understood, may speak to the King or the Queen without, being first addressed by them Both their Majesties, however, make it an invariable nile to set everyone at their ease the moment they enter a house, and always aim at making the conversation general. Thus it comes about that those whose first experience it is of meeting the King and Queen in their personal capacity quickly lose something of the awe that at first oppresses them. It is necessary, of course, to rise at the entrance of His Majesty, and to wait until 'he gives the signal for those present to resume their seats. This is, however, practically the only formality that is observed. After breakfast which His Majesty usually takes in his own room, he usually finds it necessary to devote an hour or so to his State duties, which he finds it impossible to relenquish even when away upon a private visit. This done he is ready to commence the programme that has been mapped out for his amusement. In these latter days the King's favourite outdoor amusement next to racing is shooting. Though not as good a shot as the Prince of Wales or Prince Arthur of Connaught, both of whom stand on a plane by themselves, the King is to-day distinctly more than useful with the gun, and dearly loves to shoot over really good preserves.

His Majesty enjoys the presence of the ladies of the party at luncheon during a shoot, and when leaving for the covers usually intimates to his hostess that he hopes to have the pleasure of her company at the lunch. Strangely enough, however, the King strongly disapproves of the presence of ladies while shooting is going forward. When shooting is impossible it is often a matter of perplexity for the King's host to find something that shall entertain His Majesty and serve to pass away the time pleasantly. Latterly it has become the fashion to take the King by motor to explore some of the places of historic or other interest in the neighbourhood. The King possesses a very restless nature, and looks for constant amusement when staying with any of his subjects. The evenings are almost invariably given up to music and cards. Though nothing of a musician himself the King keenly appreciates good music, and is a critic of no mean ability. He is, of course, an expert bridge player, and rarely a night, passes wherever he may be without he has at least one rubber. —"One Who Has Entertained Him," in the "Tatler."