THE NEW MIKADO

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 136, 26 October 1912, Page 2 (Supplement)

THE NEW MIKADO

According to a Tokio correspondent there is no doubt that the features of the new reign will in many respects be 'different from the old. The new Emperor, Yoshi llito, whils possessing all the sterling qualities of the late monarch, is, nevertheless, a more distinctly modern type of man; and many changes in the direction of J modernity will be noticed as time goes on and the old conservative officials pass away. Even immediately after the late Emperor died, 'the young Emperor rode to the Imperial palace in the same carriage with the young Empress, the first time for such a thing to happen in Japanese history. This is but a slight indication of the progress towards Western ways that may be expected in Japanese life in the near future. The new courts and the adoption of modern customs. He has from the rtrst modelled his family life after the pattern of Christendom, and has always shown himself of democratic tastes to a marvellous degree. Both the new Emperor and Empress have for years been very popular with all classes of people. He is specially popular with soldiers. In his private life the young Emperor has always observed the discipline of a soldier, rising early in the morning and taking the usual exercise, just as if on duty. Then after his forenoon studies are over ac lunches in a simple manner, and spends the afternoon in outdoor sports or excursions. For breakfast he seldom take* move than some bread and milk; for luncheon lie has food in the foreign style, and for supper he takes Japanese food. At 10 p.m. he takes a warm bath and retires' for the night. His temperature and pulse are taken daily by his physician, who also sees the food before it is served. Wherever the new Emperor goes his kitchen follows him, so that he always has the same quality of food, except when on warship*, when he takes the, ship's fare. The Japanese speak of him a* ever displaying a deep spirit of piety, which is regarded as one of the chief national virtues. Once when the Crown Prince was accompanying his late father at military manoeuvres a fire broke out, near the Imperial lodge, when the young Prince abandoned all ceremony, and, leaving his attendants, rushed away to enquire after the safety of his father and to assure )iim that there was no need for alarm.