REUTER'S AUSTRALIAN EXPRESS.

Southland Times, Volume III, Issue 219, 21 February 1866, Page 3

REUTER'S AUSTRALIAN EXPRESS.

London, December 26. The Government have issued circulars to the town clerks of cities and boronghs requiring various returns as to the number of electors, &c, in each district. It is supposed that the information is wanted for the purpose of constructing a new Reform Bill. The Victoria Cross has been conferred upon Captain Shaw, of the 18th Regiment, for bravery iv New Zealand. The E-ing of the Belgians, the Queen's uncle, died on the 10th. He is succeeded by the eldest son, the Duke de Brabant, as Leopold 11. The King was buried in state with great pomp at Brussels on the 16th. The funeral was attended by the Prince of "Wales, the King of Portugal, the Crown Prince of Prussia, Archduke Joseph of Austria, Prince Arthur of Orleans, with the princes envoys extraordinary from nearly all the courts of Europe. The inauguration of the new King took place on the following day. He took the oath, declaring that he would uphold the ancient constitution, before both Chambers of the Legislature, and delivered a speech, which gave general satisfaction. The Senate and the Chamber of Deputies presented an address to the King, declaring their satisfaction at his elevation to the throne, and assuring him of their unabated attachment to his dynasty.