MIKADO A WRESTLER.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 5, Issue 219, 20 October 1916, Page 1 (Supplement)

MIKADO A WRESTLER.

Tiie -Mikado of Japan, whose subject:-, have been doing so much to help tho Allies 'in tho present war, is a thorough soldier, and has a wonderful knowledge of military tactics and history. When ho was quite a boy ha was induced by his lather, the late Emperor, to take, a keen interest in the principles of national defence. He was taught wresting and was made to try his prowess with young men m the humblest walks of life. On one occasion he was present with Ins father at a big wrestling tournament and took part in many of tin* matches, lie threw all of his opponents until there stepped into the ring •> young farmer's son of such burly Inul I that it was evident that the future Mikado would have a very rough t'nie of it. However, he went manfully to work, but was decisively beaten, and had to confess that the farmer's on van victo.'. Alter the match the late Emperor seat for the umpire, and, pointing to th-> tanner's son, who was feeling :jitiier uncomfortable at having beaten his lut ure Sovereign, ha said: "I wi* ! i to speak with that young man. When the lad appeared before him, the .Mikado remarked: "My s-.ei h.aico forth you w'll beiome one rT tiv> companions of my own son, ami w." live and study with him while lie rolr.; ins at school, for later on. when ho he-comes Kmperor. he w.ll need many a nmn like you.''

The heir to the Imperial throne of Japan and tho common farmer's hov be amo the greatest of friends, and tlio present Mikado possibly ones a great deal of hn democratic spirit to tiir.t niemurable wro.stlaig bout.