THE WAIMATE ADVERTISER. THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 1902. THE ILLNESS OF THE KING.

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume IV, Issue 221, 26 June 1902, Page 2

THE WAIMATE ADVERTISER. THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 1902. THE ILLNESS OF THE KING.

It was with a feel of profound regret that the news of the King’s illjaess was received yesterday, ifiiore especially as the news was quite unlocked for. Throughout the Empire preparations on an unprecedented scale had been organised to celebrate this great event and for all to be suspended at tbe eleventh hour wjll cause an amount of confusion and loss hardly to be appreciated. But it is not of this that our thoughts must be at present occupied—all considerations have given way to anxiety for the King, who, during a serious illness, gave another

proof of his regard for the people’s welfare by asking that the celebrations should go on as arranged. This was not officially transmitted. In any case the mood of the people would not be one for rejoicing.

TheKingis sufferingfrorn perityphlitis, which is a complaint akin to appendicitis, or an inflammation set up in the vermiform appendix, a small “ pocket ” in the bowels the use of which has not yet been found out. Undigested food gathers here, and inflammation follows. An operation for the removal of the appendix is usually successful and it is to be sincerely hoped that it will so in this case. The danger is that the complaint may turn to acute peritonitis, when there is little hope of recovery. While recognising that grave consequences may ensue, it must be remembered that the King will receive the most skilled attention and no method known to science will be left unused in order to save such a valuable life. But the issue is in the hands of a Higher Power and we must wait it with all the calmness we may command.