A STATE GOVERNED AND DEFENDED BY WOMEN.

Thames Star, Volume XVI, Issue 5018, 11 February 1885, Page 3

A STATE GOVERNED AND DEFENDED BY WOMEN.

Among the colonial dependencies of Holland there is a remarkable little stati' which, in its constitution and the original customs ot itß inhabitants, surpasses the boldest dreams' of the advocates of " woman's rights." In the island of Java, between the cities of Bataria and Sanaarang, is the Kingdom of Bantam, which, although tributary to Holland, is an independent state, politically without importance, yet rich, happy, and since time immemorial, governed and defended by women. The sovereign is indeed a man, but all the rest of the government belong* to the fair sex. The King is entirely dependant on his state council, composed of three women. -The highest authorities, all state officers, court functionaries, military commanders, and soldiers are, without exception, of the female sex. The men are agriculturists and merchants. The body-guard of the King is formed of the, female elite. These amazonsride in masculine style, wearing sharp steel points instead of spurs. They carry a pointed lance, which they swing _ very gracefully, and also a musket, which is discharged at full gallop. The throne is inheritable by the eldest son, and in case the' King dies without issue a hundred amazons assemble in order to choose a successor from among their own sons. The chosen one is then proclaimed lawful King. The capital city of this little state lies in one of the most picturesque parts of the island, in a fruitful plain, and is defended by two well-kept fortresses.

in them.