PERSONAL.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXVIV, Issue 75, 4 March 1916, Page 4

PERSONAL.

The death is announced of "Carmen Sylva," Dowager-Queen of Rumania, aged 73 years. "Carmen Sylva" was the nom de plume of Queen Elizabeth of Rumania. She wa s born in Germany, being the daughter of Prince Hermann of Wied and Princess Maria of Massares, and she married Piince Charles of Rumania in 1869. On Rumania being declared a kingdom in 1881, the Princess was crowned Queen. She was famous in literary circles, and under her pseudonym, by which she was well-known, published many poems, novelettes, fairy tales, and dramas.

The death of Mr Henry James at the age of 73 removes one of the most distinguished novelists of the day. He was an American by birth, but had been living in England for a number of years, and after the outbreak of the war he became naturalised. He has published more than thirty novels and collections of short stories, as well as essays and sketches of travel. Among his works were "A Passionate Pilgrim," "The Tragic Muse," "What Maisie Knew," and "The Outcry." Mr Asquith (the Premier), and the Dean of Westminster Abbey were desirous that the funeral service should be held in the Abbey, but the family preferred that it be held in Chelsea Parish Church. The remains were cremated.

Captain J. B. Hine, M.P., who leaves Stratford on .Monday next to go into camp with the next Keinforcenients. was entertained by the members of the Stratford Club last evening, and many expressions of esteem and appreciation of the member for Stratford's self-sacrifice and patriotism were tendered by the President and other members, and the presentation of a suitable memento was made. Captain Hine. in makivg acknowledgment, said he had enlisted with no illusions as to the glory of the battleheld, but at the stern call of duty and to help maintain the blessed freedom we have so long enjoyed under the British Flag.