LUXEMBURG’S INDEPENDENCE.

Otaki Mail, Volume 26, 28 March 1919, Page 4

LUXEMBURG’S INDEPENDENCE.

The Luxemburg Parliament, a cable message states, has passed a resolution "affirming the people’s unshakable will to-maintain their independence." As a result of the armistice the American army of occupation entered the capital city of the little Grand Duchy in November last, and tlie revolutionary feeling that was in the air amongst the population was lulled into activity by the sight of the Grand Duchess Marie Adelaide standing alongside General Pershing on the balcony of her palace as the troops passed by in review. But this state of quiescence was not of long duration, for the revolutionary feeling broke loose again in January, with a demand for the abdication of the Grand Duchess, and in accordance with the demand the abdication took place, the Grand Duchess giving way to a sister. During the j period of occupation-by the German troops the inhabitants of the Grand Duchy had such an experience as to convince them that life would be intolerable should the Germans win the war. and they interpreted the Grand Duchess’ behaviour during the oceupa-' tion as an undoubted expression of her. sympathy for the . Germans. This, taken in conjunction with her consent, whether voluntary or enforced, to the ! betrothal of one of her sisters to Crown Prince Rupprc.cht was the last straw.'. The effect was tu advance the already incipient revolutionary movement into an actual menace to the Government and the reigning dynasty, A republic was proclaimed, rite Frenc-h military authorities were called in and restored order. The Grand Duchess abdicated in favour of a sister, who in turn abdicated.’ and Luxemburg was again declared a republic. Now the ] nows that the people will insist upon their independence. The position is one which will demand the consideration of the Peace Conference, and whatever -the- ultimate fate of Luxemburg j there is little doubt that it will be freed t of the fear of German domination. J