[From The Manx Quarterly, #23]

The Royal visit to the Isle Of Man.

ENTHUSIASTIC RECEPTION.

THE LANDING.

Once again carefully laid plans went awry, and on this occasion they were in connection with the eagerly anticipated Royal visit. Precisely at 12-45 on Wednesday, July 14th, the Royal Yacht "Victoria and Albert," with its escorting battleships steamed into Douglas Bay. A heavy sea rolled at the time, and it was deemed expedient, on account of the poor anchorage which Douglas Bay affords, to resort to Ramsey.

Thus for the third time, Ramsey Bay has been the anchorage of the English Royal yacht, successive Sovereigns being on board on the different occasions. The yacht anchored in the bay many years ago, with Queen Victoria on board. Then a few years ago she came to anchor there, and King Edward and Queen Alexandra landed. In the mouth of persons all over the Island the expression on Wednesday afternoon was, " Royal Ramsey has soared again!" Ramsey people themselves were not greatly elated about the occurrence, and, as a matter of fact, the distinguished visitors had landed and proceeded to Douglas by motor car before, many of the inhabitants were aware of the unexpected event. The High-Bailiff (Mr F. M. LaMothe), the member for Ramsey (Mr A. H. Teare), the Chairman of the Town Commissioners (Mr J. B. Gray), and the Town Clerk (Mr Jas. Bell) resorted to the Queen's Pier and met the Royal party. Motors proceeded to the end of the pier for the conveyance of the visitors, though a motor was perhaps never seen on the Pier before. The King was the first to mount the steps, closely followed by the Queen and Princess Mary, the Secretary of State (Mr Shortt, M.P..), and their Suite. The first object that caught His Majesty's eye was the brass plate commemorating the landing of King Edward and Queen Alexandra in 1902. His Majesty commented upon his observation. Without any undue delay the Royal party and their suite entered their cars and forthwith commenced their journey to Douglas.

As very few in Ramsey were aware of the Royal landing the streets were very thinly populated. Indeed the first intimation was received at the Police Station by Inspector King, who immediately notified the high-Bailiff and the Chairman of the Ramsey Commissioners (Mr J. B. Gray). Mr A. H. Teare, the member for Ramsey, had meanwhile journeyed to Douglas, where he learned of the change in the arrangements. He quickly drove to the Electric Railway Station and boarded a car for Laxey. where he was held up. Undaunted he requisitioned a motor, and was, happily, at the end of the Ramsey Pier before the Royal party appeared.

DOUGLAS.

Royal Visit - Procession along the Douglas Promenade

Notwithstanding the announcement that the Royal party were to land at Ramsey, dense crowds waited behind the barriers which lined the streets in Douglas through which their Majesties were to pass. At 2-30 the roads were packed. Victoria Pier was no less so. Ticket-holders crushed inside the enclosure reserved for them, while the more dignified members of the Legislative Council, House of Keys, etc., bided their souls in patience by occasionally strolling around the buildings which are at the point. The Governor's son (who bears a remarkable resemblance to his father) was among the latter gathering, as were Mrs Hornby (Governor's daughter), Mr Hornby (Governor's son-in-law), Mrs Fry (Governor's daughter-in-law), Miss Hornby (Governor's grand daughter), Deemster Moore, Deemster and Mrs Callow, the Lord Bishop and Mrs Denton Thompson), the Attorney-General (Mr G. A. Ring), Messrs G. Drinkwater, M.L.C., Rd. Cain, H.K., C. Gill, H.K., W. Moore, H.K., and Mrs Moore, Ed. Callister, H.K., J. R. Kerruish, M.L.C., Mark Carine, J.P., R. B. Moore, H.K., A. W. Tongue, Rev Canon Quine, G. B. Kermode, FLK., W. H. Blaker, Lieut. Connor, J. Qualtrough, M.L.C., F. S. Dalgleish, H.K., W. Kermeen, H.K., Capt. and Mrs C'ubhon, J. Cunningham, M.L.C., J. D. Clucas, H.K., R. D. Gelling, T. S. Corlett, H.K., Leicester Homan, J.P., J. L. Goldie-Taubman, H.K., D. J. Teare, H.K., Mrs and Miss Teare, A. J. Teare, H.K., and Mrs Teare, S. Norris, H.K., and Mrs Norris, W. C. Southward, M.L.C., R. B. Quirk, M.L.C., G. E. Kelly, Supt. Quilliam, etc., etc.

A bitterly cold southerly wind was blowing at the time, and one or two of the more elderly legislators had perforce to send for their overcoats. No one, however, thought of returning home-everyone waited patiently, and it was a stupendous crowd that waited! The Royal route was packed as it has never been before. The Battery Pier was no less so; while on Fort Anne Jetty there was hardly room to swing a cat around. Douglas Head was literally dotted with people, who could be seen focussing their field-glasses, etc., on to the Victoria Pier. At four o'clock the assemblage on the Pier were informed that the Royal party had left Ramsey. Drooping spirits were somewhat revived at this, just as chattering teeth were stilled. Derby Castle then became the object on which all eyes were centred, for it was expected that it was on the road which passes that and runs on to the Bay View Hotel that the first glimpse of the King's Daimler would be got. Expectations were realised, for at about 4-56 it was seen. The Arcade clock had just chimed five when a rousing cheer heralded the arrival of the Royal party. Contrary to arrangements, their Majesties did not alight at the far end of the Pier, but drew up a few yards beyond the Arcade clock. Then followed a wild scramble from the top of the Pier to the place where the Royal party halted. Their Majesties and their Suite on alighting from their cars immediately made off in the direction of the ex-service men of Douglas, who had lined up on parade under Major F. C. Harris, for inspection. Going down the ranks, the King nodded affably to each man and chatted with one or two as he passed along. The Queen and Princess Mary were none the less conversational, as were also the Countess Minto, Lord Stamfordham, Sir Derrick Kepple, Colonel Clive Wiggram, Capt. Sir :Bryan Godfrey Faussett, R.N., and Lady Mary Trefussas, who formed their Majesty's Suite. The King was particularly interested in Mr S. Kinred, M.C., and, several ex-soldiers, who on account of the effects of severe wounds, were perforced to sit in chairs. On concluding his inspection, his Majesty received the members of the Legislative Council, the Speaker of the House of Keys (Mr G. F. Clucas), and the Chairman of the Harbour Commissioners (Mr Mark Carine), shaking each by the hand as they were introduced by the Lieut.-Governor. Meanwhile the Queen had received, at the hands of Miss Hornby a beautiful bouquet, which she smilingly accepted. Indeed the Queen was all smiles, though it was apparent to shrewd observers that her passage and that of the King and Princess from Scotland to the Island had not been a pleasant one. Great enthusiasm prevailed all round, cheers loud and prolonged following each other in quick succession. The ex-service men particularly manifested much patriotism, and crowded round the Royal party in an endeavour to get a good view. Numerous people broke through the barriers, and accentuated the rush; and for a few brief moments there were fears of accidents. Good counsels, however, prevailed, and the unruly but good intentioned crowd stepped back to allow the Royal visitors to get into their cars for Villa Marina. The Daimlers set off amid rollicking cheers, and proceeded along the, promenade, which was filled with people. The car containing the Royal party was closed, a fact which occasioned much disappointment. Nevertheless the crowds gave voice to their loyalty in deafening fashion the whole journey from the Jubilee Clock to the Villa Marina being. accompanied by vociferous cheering.

Royal Visit - Scene outside Villa Marina

Entering Villa Marina by the Broadway entrance, their Majesties alighted on the concrete space which is situated between the grand hall and the gardens. There they witnessed a spectacle which undoubtedly affected them greatly. Four thousand white-clad children stood on the lawn before them, ands at a given signal sang the National Anthem and the Manx National Anthem vigorously and tune-fully. The King and Queen advanced to within three yards of the foremost rank, where they remained until the last note had died . away. Then the children cheered and cheered at the same time waving the miniature flags, which they had been provided; with. It was a sight never to be forgotten, and had a similar effect to that experienced when one hears a crack military band play the "Marseillaise." The writer ventured to ask a journalist, who has been associated the Royal tours for more years than he cares to remember, what his impressions ere. His reply was, "I have never seen anything like it in my life;." Before the Royal party entered the Grand Hall, his Excellency presented Mr Hall, schoolmaster, to the King.

Thunderous applause greeted the King, Queen, and Princess Mary as they walked over the centre of the floor to the platform on which stood the Mayor, the Mayoress, members of the Town Council ands their womenfolk, Town Clerk and Mrs Robertson, and other municipal officials. The accommodation in the Hall was taxed to its utmost. After the Mayor (Mr J. Kelly, J.P.,) Deputy Mayor (Councillor W. Quirk), and) the Town Clerk (Mr A. Robertson) had been presented, the latter read the address of welcome, which was as folows:-

ADDRESS FROM THE CORPORATION OF DOUGLAS.

To His Most Excellent Majesty King George the Fifth, by the Grace of God King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and of the British Dominions beyond the Seas, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India, Lord of Mann.

May it please your Majesty-

We, the Mayor, Aldermen, and Burgesses of the Borough of Douglas, Isle of Man, humbly beg to offer our loyal and heartfelt welcome to your Majesty and to her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of this your first visit to our shores.

The ancient constitution and history of our Island, of which the Borough of Douglas is the largest town, render it in many respects unique amongst your Majesty's dominions.

By virtue of its geographical situation, its natural beauty, and its climate, it stands pre-eminent as the resort of many thousands of your Majesty's subjects in search of health and pleasure.

Though we are a small community and cherish our national independence and constitution, we yield, to none in our devotion and loyalty to the throne, and in our deep appreciation of the honour conferred upon us by the visit of your Majesties.

We have watched with admiration and affection during the recent anxious and sorrowful years of war, the constant and untiring endeavour of your Majesties to sustain the courage and alleviate the sufferings of all classes of your subjects.

Such an inspiring example and such ready sympathy cannot fail to knit together all Manxmen with the rest of your subjects in a common bond of gratitude and affection towards your Majesties.

We realise that under the guidance of Almighty God, your Majesty's wise and beneficent rule will best secure the well-being of your people and the advancement and prosperity of your dominions.

We desire to assure your Majesty of our constant loyalty and wholehearted devotion, and we pray that Almighty God may long spare your Majesty to reign over us in peace and prosperity.

Given under the Corporate Seal of the Borough of Douglas, this 14th day of July, 1920.

JOHN KELLY, Mayor. ALEXANDER ROBERTSON, Town Clerk.

HIS MAJESTY'S SPEECH AT DOUGLAS.

The King, in his reply, said :-

I thank you very sincerely for your loyal and dutiful address, and for the cordial greetings which we have received from the people of Douglas.

The Queen and I are much pleased to visit, for the first time, my Lord-ship of Man, and to make ourselves personally acquainted with its community. It is a community small in numbers and placed in the midst of three great kingdoms, but nevertheless able to maintain its ancient constitution and its national individuality. We are glad also to have this opportunity of seeing and enjoying for ourselves those natural beauties which have made this Island famous as a health resort for the industrial population of Northern England.

We appreciate very much your kindly reference to our endeavours during the terrible years of war. We tried to do what lay in our power to strengthen the purpose and to soothe the sorrows of our beloved people. It is ever our earnest desire to identify ourselves with the interests and to labour for the well-being o all parts of the Empire.

You have not been without your share in the troubles which the whole nation has recently passed. Hitherto you have not had to bear the financial burden which pressed on the United Kingdom; but the men of this Island, in common with the rest of my Dominions, responded to the call for service in the field; gallantly bore hardship, suffered wounds, and'' faced death. Moreover, in the early days of the war many of the inhabitants, especially in this town of Douglas, were threatened with calamitous losses by the unexpected cessation of the usual influx of visitors. Happily the fears of prolonged distress were not realised. Thanks to the measures organised by the local administration and to the assistance rendered in various ways by Great Britain, the Island emerges from the war in a flourishing condition, and I am glad to know that its popularity, and in particular that of your town, is rapidly reviving.

I am confident that the industry of the people of Douglas and the wisdom of its Council will build up again its former prosperity. and we assure you of our hearty good wishes in the success of your efforts.

Vigorous cheering marked the conclusion of His Majesty's reply.

The Mayor then handed her Majesty a book, which contained twelve of the principal views of the Isle of Man. In doing so he expressed the delight of the Manx people at the knowledge that they had their Majesties among them. The following were later presented to their Majesties:-Mrs John Kelly, Mrs Robertson, Mrs W. Quirk, Alderman and Mrs Corlett, Alderman Craine, Alderman Gray, Alderman and Mrs Quayle. Each of the ladies ands gentlemen presented shook hands with the King and Queen and Princess Mary, the ladies accompanying each handshake with a curtsey. The monotony which is related to such formalities was considerably lessened by the laughter which was evoked by the free and easy manner in which Alderman Gray shook hands with the King and Queen. Coming from the rear of the stage, his face wreathed in smiles, there was a "hail-fellow-well-met" atmosphere about him, which, to say the least, was refreshing.

The programme being filled, so far as Villa Marina was concerned, the Royal party set forth for the Nunnery Grounds for tea, they proceeding along the Promenade, up the gaily decorated Victoria-street, at the top of which the girl guides were conspicuous, down Ridgeway-street, where St. Matthew's K.R.R. Cadets were drawn up along the North Quay and Castletown-road. Needless to add, the route was thronged with sightseers, who cheered loudly and wholeheartedly.

CASTLETOWN.

After a stay of about twenty minutes at Nunnery, the Royal party proceeded to Castletown, by way of Kewiague, Ballasalla and Malew. At Santon, just by the war memorial, a short halt was made when the assemblage gave expression of it loyalty by singing the National Anthem.

The King and Queen in Castletown

Castletown was reached about 6-35 p.m. Entering the Market-square from Malew street the Royal party alighted, and mounted the stage, which was erected by the sun dial. Here their Majesties received, the High-Bailiff of Douglas Castletown (Mr R. D. Farrant), the chairman of the Town Commissioners .(Mr J. W. Cannell), and the Town Clerk (Mr C. W. Watterson).

The school children of Castletown, Arbory, and Rushen, under their respective teachers, were gathered on the Market Square, and as the Royal visitors alighted from their car, the massed assemblage sang the National Anthem with impressive effect. The Castletown High School for girls and Grammar school lads were also given a place of honour along the route. The Guard of Honour was composed of the Officers' Training Corps and Cadets and Scouts from King William's College along with their drums and buglers, under the command of Capt. the Rev. E. H. Stenning ; and at the entrance to the Swing Bridge, a Company of the Liverpool-Scottish Cadet Corps, with bagpipes and drums, were lined up, Capt. Kerr being the officer in charge. There was a distinctive military touch about the proceedings.

The Royal Visit - Ex-servicemen at Castletown

During the passage of the Royal visitors from the Market Square to the Castle gate, they conversed quite freely with quite a number of the local folk. The King inquired of Mr J. Flanagan (Postmaster of Castletown, and ex-Sergt. West Yorkshire Regiment) as to what regiment he had served in, examined his decoration and bars of service, and particularly noticed the Ashanti Star, 1896, and remarked that he seldom saw it nowadays. His Majesty had also brief conversation with ex-Sergt. Atkin, of Castletown, an old warrior, who proudly wore his long service decorations, and the father of Lieut.-Col. Atkin, C.M.G., D.S.O. Colonel Thompson was also recognised by their Majesties. Amongst other demobilised soldiers and sailors, notice was taken of Mr (ex-Corpl.) Tom Doran, M.M., and French M M., of Port St. Mary; and Messrs R. Bridson, George Coole Gallagher, Coastguard Pascoe, and W. Bridson (Castletown), and Miss Mead (Red Cross), Cronk-my-Chree; Miss Stockforth (Land Army), Miss Cain (W.A.A.C.), and Miss Waters (Women's Legion). Princess Mary also spoke to several of the ladies on parade. The Queen appeared to be charmed with a tiny tot named Carrie Foster, whom her Majesty spoke to. Little Miss Muriel Williams was also favoured with a word and smile from her Majesty.

The local police force was re-inforced by members of the permanent constabulary from other parts of the Island, and in addition the Castletown and Rushen sections of the I.o.M. Volunteers did good service. There were also drafted into the town, about 150 special constables from Cunningham's Camp, Douglas. The arrangements, which were under the excellent supervision of Inspector Robert Kelly, were admirable, ands everything passed off without the slightest hitch.

While his Majesty was inspecting the O.T.C., the Queen specially expressed a wish to see the Castle, and, accompanied by the Princess Mary, entered the precincts of the ancient structure, as far as the inner keep. They inspected the tablet recently put up by the Monument Trustee's, in honour of Lord Raglan's work of restoration of the building to ,chat it was in the fourteenth century. The genial custodian, Mr (ex-police sergt.) Wm. McLaughlin acted as cicerone to the Royal visitors. The Queen greatly admired the structure, and said it was a grand old building. On the top of the well in the inner courtyard the Queen and the Princess Mary signed the visitor's book, thus:-July 14th, 1920, Mary R,," and "Mary." The son and daughter-in-law of the custodian, Mr and Mrs Wm. McLaughlin, junr., of Chester, who are at present spending their holidays at Castletown, were also graciously favoured with the autograph of the Queen and Princess Mary in their autograph album. Following upon the inspection of the O.T.C., the King entered the Castle grounds as far as the turnstile. Their Majesties each accepted from the custodian a guide of the Castle, and a set of view post-cards of the Castle, the ancient clock, and a. photograph of the custodian. They undoubtedly proved themselves charming and interested visitors.

Regarding the inspection of the O.T.C., the King thanked the company very much for their efficiency, and remarked that they looked extremely smart and soldierly. The King specially asked to see two of the lads attending the College, viz., Cadet Orry Caine and Scout Douglas Caine sons, of Mr Orry Caine, of Thetford, Norfolk, steward to the present Duke of Grafton, and formerly steward for a number of years to the aged Duke of Grafton, who passed away about twelve months ago. The lads were presented to the King, who said he was interested in them, because they were Manx, and more particularly because their godfather was the late aged Duke of Grafton, who was one of the most kind-hearted men his Majesty had ever known.

The decorations, which were in charge of Messrs J. Paget and Son, London, were very tastefully arranged, but were not as elaborate as might have been expected, considering the amount expended upon them. A large number of the townsfolk felt that the work done locally could have been made just as attractive and the flags, bunting, etc., purchased could have been utilised on a future occasion. The Market-square and Swing bridge presented a very pleasing appearance.

The return journey to Ramsey was without incident. Dark ominous clouds hdi the sky, and rain seemed continually imminent. It kept off, however, until about 8-30 p.m., but the Royal party had been on board their yacht ten minutes by then.

THURSDAY'S TOUR.

As everyone anticipated the Royal yacht remained in Ramsey Bay overnight a fact which necessitated further altertions in the official programme. It was originally intended that the Royal party should land at Douglas and then proceed to Laxey, thence to Ramsey via the Dhoon. As events proved, Laxey and the Dhoon were not favoured, as it was decided to commence the day's programme at Ramsey, which meant an abandonment of the visit to the village of big wheel fame. Laxey people are, therefore, to be sympathised with.

RAMSEY.

The ancient town of Ramsey certainly vied with Douglas so far as decoration and demonstrations of loyalty were con corned. The Town Hall, just newly painted, was positively elaborate, while the decorations around and about were truly gorgeous, for it was there the King and Queen were to be received. Full half-an-hour before their Majesties arrived, everyone was in his or her place the school children (800 from Ramsey, 225 from Andreas, and 75 from Bride), the ex-service men (under Capt. Crellin, M.C C.P.), the Red Cross girls, etc., etc. On their arrival, the ex-service men were given a tremendous ovation by the huge crowd which had gathered.

Precisely at 11-15 o'clock a.m., the Royal party arrived, accompanied by the Lieut.-Governor.

The Royal Visit - Inspection of disabled men at Ramsey

The King, as on the previous day, was attired in an admiral's uniform, and had side creases in his trousers. The Queen was dressed in blue gabardine trimmed with silk and wore a pink toque of white fox fur. The Princess was gowned in mole coloured crepe-de-chine, with black stone wrap trimmed with mole, and wore a gold toque with heliotrope gold and cerise flowers.

The Royal party mounted the platform, on which there stood Mr A. H. Teare, H.K., and Mrs Teare, Mr J. B. Gray (chairman of the Ramsey Commissioners), Mrs and Miss Gray, and Messrs James Bell (Town Clerk), Edward Christian, T. A. Fargher, J. Derbyshire, J. E. Martin, J. P. Purcell, W. A. Gibson and G. W. Kewin (Town Surveyor). Immediately their Majesties confronted the gathering, there was a vociferous outburst of cheering, which the King and Queen acknowledged.

Mr J. B. Gray, as chairman of .the Ramsey Commissioners, then handed his Majesty an address, which read as follows : -

THE RAMSEY ADDRESS.

To His Most Gracious Majesty King George the Fifth, Lord of Man.

May it please your Majesty-

We, as representing the residents of the town of Ramsey, desire with the utmost respect and dutifulness, to assure your Majesty and her Majesty the Queen of the warmest possible welcome to our town. Some of us recollect with happiest memories the visit to Ramsey, in the year 1847, of her late Most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria, accompanied by his Royal Highness the Prince Consort, while many of us gratefully recall the occasion when your Majesty's revered father, King Edward, with the loved Queen Mother, landed on our pier in the year 1902.

And now it is our high honour and privilege to receive a gracious visit from your Majesties, for which we humbly desire to express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation.

The profound and unceasing sympathy shown by your Majesties with all sections of your subjects intensifies daily the affectionate homage of our hearts to your persons and throne, while your most gracious presence in our midst affords us the opportunity of proving anew our individual and corporate loyalty and devotion to your Majesties and of assuring you of our prayers that the. blessing of Almighty God may ever and abundantly rest upon you, and upon all the members of the Royal Family.

Signed on behalf of the Ramsey Town Commissioners.

JOSEPH B. GRAY, Chairman. JAMES BELL, Town Clerk. July 15, 1920.

The King handed back a reply to Mr Gray through the Home Secretary.

HIS MAJESTY'S SPEECH AT RAMSEY.

The King, in his reply, said :-

I thank you for your loyal and dutiful address and for the warm welcome which the people of Ramsey have extended to us. It is a great pleasure to the Queen and myself to come amongst you.

We are touched that you should still retain affectionate and loyal recollections of the visit to your town, now more than 70 years ago, by Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort. We have observed with interest the conspicuous and striking monument which you have built to form a permanent memorial of that visit. It has been our constant aspiration to emulate that beloved Queen in her unselfish devotion to the duties of her position and to the interest and well-being of her subjects.

I rejoice to see, as elsewhere in the Island, manifest indications of a general state of prosperity, and I congratulate you that the heavy burdens which the war has laid upon Europe have touched you with comparative lightness, and it is my earnest prayer that the ancient town of Ramsey may long continue to flourish.

The presentation to the King of the High Bailiff (Mr F. M. LaMothe), the Chairman of the Commissioners and the Town Clerk, by the Lieut.-Governor, next followed.

Afterwards the Queen was presented with a bouquet of flowers from Miss Janet Majorie Gray, while, after the Princess was the recipient of one, from Miss Edith Kermode.

Their Majesties later inspected the ex-service men and the school children. The, Queen was much amused at some of the tiny tots who stood in silence and in awe of her presence. In several instances her Majesty spoke to them, and succeeded in making them smile; at the same time creating in them a desire to run away and tell their mothers that their beloved Queen had spoken to them.

A Ramsey corespondent writes as follows:-

Their Majesties and Suite landed at the Queen's Pier at eleven o'clock, and, proceeded in motors through Parliament-street to the Town Hall. A company of the soldiers camped on the Mooragh and some members of r_ boy's camp formed a guard of honour. The Town Band supplied the music. Parliament-square and the whole neighbourhood, and a good distance of Parliament-street were- densely packed with. people, residents of the town, from the country districts and visitors. The whole town was elaborately decorated, Messrs Payee's efforts being very extensively supplemented. The Town Hall had just been newly panted, and its two colours of paint added to the brightness of the scene. A huge platform had been erected in front of the Town Hall, and it was covered with a gorgeous canopy. On the platform were, the High-Bailiff (Mr F. M. LaMothe), the member for Ramsey (Mr A. H. Teare), the Chairman of the Town Commissioners (Mr J. B. Gray, J.P.), a number of Town Commissioners (not all of them), the Town Clerk (Mr James Bell), Mrs LaMothe, Mrs Teare, Mrs Gray. As the Royal visitors approached the Square, the guard presented arms, and the school children, and the people generally, led by Mr J. Q. Killey, L.R.A.M., sang, "God, save the King." On the platform the Chairman and Clerk of the commissioners were presented. The Chairman handed the King a beautiful illuminated :address, a reply to which was handed back. Bouquets of flowers were presented to the Queen and Princess by Miss Gray and Miss Kermode respectively. The King inspected the large company of ex-service men assembled in front of the platform. The whole; affair was over in ten minutes. The ex-service men, whose number was remarkable, were heartily and repeatedly cheered both as they marched on and off the ground.

BISHOPSCOURT.

The Royal visit to Bishopscourt proved to be the most outstanding incident in the tour. Their Majesties were welcomed in the picturesque grounds by the Lord Bishop who, with Mrs Denton Thompson, escorted the Royal party inside their house. After about ten minutes absence, they re-appeared, and the King and Queen looked inside the adjoining Cathedral [St Nicholas's Chapel then acting as Cathedral]. Immediately afterwards chairs were drawn up under the shade of the North wall of the Church, on which their Majesties and their Suite sat for their photographs. During the sitting an incident occurred, which obviously amused the King and Princess Mary. A press photographer in his anxiety to secure the best possible snap kept side-stepping to the right. He had, of course, his camera up, to his eye, and was consequently oblivious of the fact that kneeling below him was another press photographer. The result is easily imagined, he fell rather heavily over his colleague, his camera flying out of his hands. He, however, felt more than compensated on observing the King's laughter, and later prided himself on providing the joke of the afternoon. Nevertheless, the photographing continued, and among the Insular people who figured in the group were the Lieut.-Governor, the Lord Bishop, Mrs Denton Thompson, Mr B. E. Sargeaunt, Miss Hilda Thompson and Miss Irene Thompson (the Bishop's daughters), Miss Dorothy Thompson (the Bishop's niece), Mr Bernard James Thompson (the Bishop's son), Mrs Jeffrey Thompson (the Bishop's sister-in-law), the Rev. C. A. Cannan, and the Rev. C. V. Stockwood.

The Royal Visit - Tree-planting at Bishopscourt

A pretty little ceremony was performed shortly afterwards on the lawn, their Majesties each planting a small oak tree, between which Princess Mary planted a palm tree.

The procession then moved off and drew up at Kirk Michael, where the King shook hands with the Captain of the Parish, Mr J. C. Caine.

PEEL.

Continuing on to Peel, the, Royal Party received a tremendous ovation on their arrival in the city. The town was lavishly decorated, and presented a very gay ,appearance. The King alighted on the Promenade, where the ex-soldiers and sailors were lined up. Before inspecting them, however, he received the Chairman of the Peel Commissioners (Lieut. W. H. Clarke) and the Town Clerk (Mr George Cringle).

The Royal Visit - At the Creg Malin, Peel

The ex-service men's parade was in charge of Mr Edward Hannah, who accompanied His Majesty along the ranks, His Majesty indulged in conversation with most of the men, particularly the ex-sailors whom the King was delighted, to see in such numbers there. His Majesty enquired whether any of the men were present who, under the late Capt. Ball, assisted in rescue work in connection with the sinking of the Lusitania. On being informed that those men hailed from Jurby, the King was obviously disappointed, more so on learning of Capt. Ball's demise. It might be added here that throughout the whole tour his Majesty betrayed a decided leaning towards men who had served in the Navy.

Queen Mary and Princess Mary meanwhile viewed the children,. who cheered and sang as they had never sang before. The visit however was soon over and the Royal Party moved off for St. John's, which was reached without incident.

ST. JOHNS.

The Royal Visit - On Tynwald Hill

By the time the entourage arrived, the green surrounding the ancient hill at St. John's was crowded with people, who gave vent to their feelings in vociferous fashion when their Majesties' car drew up just opposite the Post Office. The Governor forthwith led the Royal party up the Hill, on the top of which there proudly fluttered the Union Jack. His Majesty received Major H. Cowle, who had been waiting there with the Sword of State. The ancient and antiquely designed sword was handed to his Majesty, who inspected it very closely. In answer to numerous questions from the King, the Governor explained various matters which aroused his Majesty's interest. The Queen expressed a desire that the Royal party should be photographed on the Hill, a request which the press photographers were very willing to fulfil. Their Majesties, however, were only on the Hill five minutes ere they moved off. The King noticing a young lady in the crowd, which lined the way, endeavouring to "snap" him, quickly grasped the difficulties which she had to contend with. Bringing the whole party to a halt he called the young woman into the centre of the passage, which the police had kept clear for him, and invited the amateur photographer to photograph him at her ease. The favour needless to say, was readily accepted. The next scheduled halt was Crosby. where their Majesties were loudly greeted by the children of the district, who were drawn up under the Captain of the Parish . Mr J. Cunningham, M.L.C. His Majesty acknowledged their greetings, shook hands with Mr Cunningham, and proceeded to the Government House for luncheon, via Kirk Braddan, the Quarter Bridge and Glencrutchery-road.

At Kirk Braddan a large number of young children lined up to hail their Majesties as they passed by.

At Union Mills there was a manifestation of some cheap wit, is the way of a banner, which read, "We will DYE for you."

GARDEN PARTY.

The Royal Visit - Scene at the Garden Party

In response to the invitation of his Majesty's representative in the Isle of Man, some four hundred ladies and gentlemen assembled on the lawn in front of Government House that they might have the rare privilege of meeting their Majesties the King and Queen.
Brilliant sunshine prevailed and imparted its spirit into the guests of his Excellency. The band of H.M. Irish Guards was in attendance, and the playing of the National Anthem signified the appearance of the Queen, followed by the King and Princess Mary, through the French window of the State drawing-room.
A position was immediately taken up in front of the bay window, and the members of the House of Keys and their wives were presented to the King and Queen as follows
Mr S. Norris and Mrs Norris, Mr R. C. Cain and Mrs Cain, Mr R. B. Moore and Mrs Moore, Mr A. J. Teare and Mrs Teare, Mr A. H. Teare and Mrs Teare, Mr J. D. Qualtrough, Mr E. Callister and Mrs Gal-lister, Mr F. S. Dalgleish and Mrs Dalgleish, Mr G. B. Kermode and Mrs Kermode, Mr E J. Curphey, Mr R. S. Corlett, Mr W. Kermeen and Mrs Kermeen, Mr T. S. Corlett and Mrs Corlett, Mr R. Cain, Mr J. D. Clucas, Mr D. J. Teare and Mrs Teare, Mr C. Gill and Mrs Gill, Mr W. Moore and Mrs Moore, ,and Mr A. Qualtrough.
The following were also presented :- Mr R. D. Gelling, Canon Quine and Mrs Quine, Archdeacon Kewley and Miss Kewley, Mr C T. W. Hughes-Games and Mrs Hughes-Games.
The Princess, who has captivated all Manx hearts by her open manner and charming simplicity, stood a little behind the Queen during the presentation ceremony.
After the presentations, the Queen, accompanied by the Lieut.-Governor, moved from the carpet towards the general company, followed by the King and Princess. The first unofficial person to be greeted by his Majesty was the Santa Cecilia of Manxland, Miss M. L. Wood, and all lovers of Manx-land and of music and of Miss Wood must rejoice in the signal honour paid to the veteran leader. Their Majesties moved freely among the guests, and many other presentations were made, among whom were Canon Owen (Principal, King William's College) and Mrs Col. Moore.
The Queen desired to meet the Mayoress, and it was apparent that a most friendly " lil coosh" was being held. The King en-gaged the Mayor in conversation for a few minutes. Princess Mary had the leading Girl Guide (Miss E. Cooper) presented to her, and the peculiar left-hand shake was cordially indulged in. The King appeared to thoroughly enjoy his experience, but it was the common observation of many that the Queen looked none too well and rather fatigued. Nevertheless her Majesty was graciousness itself to all whom she met, acknowledging pleasantly the salutes of the guests.
It would be difficult for a mere man to adequately describe to the satisfaction of lady readers the dress worn by the Queen. She wore a red toque and a silver blue gown, with a grey maribou.
The Princess wore a fawn coloured gown of simple design. Her slightly sunburnt complexion was readily noticed as an evidence of good health and spirits.
The King wore the undress uniform of an Admiral.
After spending about an hour freely moving about, the Royal party withdrew inside the Government House.
The exquisite toilet of one Douglas lady was in remarkable coincidence with the colours worn by the Queen, and the varied coloured toilets lent a kaleidoscopic effect to the most distinguished event ever held at the Vice-Regal Lodge.
Tea was afterwards provided, the catering arrangements being in the capable hands of Mr George Sharp, Cabin Cafe.
The complete list of the guests invited is as follow :-
Mr and Mrs Jas. Ashburner, Miss James Ash burner, Mrs Anderton, Mr and Mrs Atkinson.
Mr and :Mrs J. A. Barthelemy, Mr Jas. Bur-man, Miss Burman, Mr T. Brown, Mr and Mrs William Beckton, Rev and Mrs S. B. Botwood, Lord Bishop and Mrs Denton Thompson, Messrs. J. T. and Gerald and Miss Bridson; Mrs, Misses, and Mr Victor Brearey; Mr and Mrs W. H. Blaker, Miss Bridgeman, Mr, Mrs, and Miss Boyce, Major and Mrs Browne, Lieut.-Col. and Mrs Ed. Bradford, Rev F. A. Betts, Mr and Mrs J. A. Brown, Mr S. K. Broadbent, Dr and Mrs Blakiston.
Mr and Mrs H. B. Cheslyn Callow, Mrs Canning, Rev R. and Mrs Cain, Misses Cannell, Miss G. Cowan, Deernsteh and Mrs Callow, Mr and Miss Carrick, Misses Corrin, Miss Crellin, Mr J. F., Lieut. A. M., and Mr G. P. Crellin; Mr E. T., Mrs, and Misses Christian; Air and Mrs Jos. Cubbon, Mr and Mrs W. Percy Cowley, Mrs H. Campbell, Rev J. H. and Mrs Cain, Speaker and -Mrs Clucas, Mr R. E. and Miss Craine, Mr and Mrs R. S. Corlett, Sir Robt. and Lady Clegg, Misses Clucas, Mr J. D. Clucas, Mrs Stephen Clucas, Miss Campbell, Mrs and Miss Cubbon, Sir Hall and Lady- Caine, Mrs and Miss Christian, Capt. and Mrs Crowder, Lieut. and Mrs Counor, Mr and Mrs George Clarke (Col-lector of Customs), Rev Peter Campbell, Rev Dean Crookall, Mr T. Cubbon, Mr and Mrs R. C. Cain, Mr and Mrs E. Callister, Mr and Mrs E. J. Curphey, Mr and Mrs T. S. Corlett, Mr and Mrs Richard Cain, Mr J. R. Corrin, Mr and Mrs J. Cunning-ham, Mr and Mrs M. Craine, Mr and Mrs J. Cannell, Councillor and Mrs W. J. Cor-kill, Councillor and Mrs A. B. Crookall, Councillor and Mrs J. J. Corlett, Councillor and Mrs T. H. Cowin, Councillor and Mrs E. Corrin, Councillor and Mrs D. Collister, Councillor and Mrs E. Creer, Alderman J. Craine, Alderman and Mrs R. Corlett, Dr and Mrs Chambers, Major and Mrs Cowle, Miss Mona Clegg Major W. F. Christian, Air and Mrs R,. H. Cubbon, Mr and Mrs Harley Cunningham.
Mr and Mrs Thornton Duesberry, Rev J., Mrs, and Misses Davidson, Mr and Mrs W. F. Dickinson, Mr and Mrs H. H. W. Dickson, Mr J. C. Dickson, Mrs and Miss Dearden, Mr and Mrs Jno. Drinkwater, Mr and Mrs Geo. Drinkwater, Rev H. T. and Mrs Devall, Miss Davies, Miss Davey, Mr and Mrs F. S. Dalgleish.
Misses Eadie, Mrs Elliot.
Mr R. D. Farrant, Mr and Mrs F. W. Flanagan, Mrs and Miss Farrant, Mr Ewan Farrant, Rev C. and Miss Forrington, Mr and Mrs W. A. Fyffe, Alderman and Mrs J. T. Faraghnr.
Mr and Mrs F. M. Greene, Mrs G. M. Greene, Mr, Mrs, and Miss Grange; Mr
and Mrs E. B. Grwne and Mr H. D. Gawne, Mrs J. S. Gell, Miss Gell, Mr and Mrs H. R. Gelling, Mr and Mrs Ii. E. Gelling, Miss Gill, Mrs Hugh S. Gell, Capt. and Mrs V. Gordon, Lady Goldie-Taubman, Mr J. L. Goldie Taubman, Mr and Mrs Chas. Gill, Mr and Mrs Chas. Gill, Air and Mrs It. 1). Gelling, Councillor and Mrs W. Goldsmith, Councillor and Mrs G. Gilmour, Councillor F. Gale, Alderman and Mrs D. Gray, Mr Eden Gawne.
Rev W. Newton Hudson, Mrs and Miss Hoyle, Mrs and the Misses Mamerton, Mr and Mrs A. P. Hunt, Mrs Hannay, Dr and Miss Hamilton, Miss Harris, Miss Howard, Rev and Mrs M. W. Harrison, Mrs Hughes-Games, Vicar-General and Mrs C. T. W. Hughes-Games, Major, Mrs, and Miss Olga Harris; Mr F. and Mrs E. Hooper, Rev F. W. and Mrs Henshall. Councillor and Mrs W. G. T. Hargrave, Mr Leicester Homan.
Mr and Mrs F. J. Johnson.
Rev A. and Mrs Kenyon Lieut. J. B. and Mrs Kershaw, Rev W. L and Mrs Karran, Archdeacon and Miss Kewley, Mrs and Miss Karran, Canon and Mrs Kermode, Rev T. R., and Mrs Kneale, Mrs Kneen, Mr and Mrs Edwyn Kneen, Mr, Mrs, and Miss Sunderland Kerr, Mr and Mrs W. R. Kay, Mr P. lI. C. and Miss Kermode, Miss and Mr L. G. Kneale, Mr L. S. Kneale, Dr and Mrs Kitchen, Mr W. H. Kitto, Misses Kitto, Mr E. T. Mrs, and Miss Kis-s,aek, Mr and Mrs A. k. Kitto, Mr and Mrs G. B. Kermode, Mr and Mrs W. Kerrneen, AIr and Mrs J. R. Kerruish, Councillor T. S. and Mrs Kelly, Councillor W. Knox, Mr H. Percy Kelly.
Mr and Mrs W. Lay, Mrs Lewin, Mr H. D. Lay, High-Bailiff and Mrs F. M. LaMothe. Mr and Mrs W. Lewin, Mrs Lheah, Rev E. H. Leatham Locke and Mrs Locke.
Mr and Mrs Horace Mellor, Mr and Mrs R. H. Milner, Rev H. C., Mrs, and Miss McNeil, Lieut. Col. and Mrs H. W. Madoc, Mrs J. A. Mylrea, Deemster & Mrs Moore, Miss E. L. McKnight, Mr, Mrs, and Miss Marshall, Rev and Mrs Mackie, Miss Mat-son, Capt. and Mrs Macpherson, Mrs Moore (Great Meadow), Mr P. Hugh Mason, Mayor and Mayoress Mr A. H. G. Moore, Capt. and Mrs J. S. Mylchreest, Mr T. H. Moore, Mr and Mrs Harold Mylchreest, Dr and Mrs Marshall, Mr and Mrs R. B. Moore, Mr and Mrs W. Moore. Mr, Mrs, and Miss Murray.
Lieut.-Col., Mrs, and Miss Nicholson, Mr and Mrs C. B. Nelson, Mr and Mrs R. J. Nicholls (Postmaster), Mr and Mrs S. Norris.
Mr and Mrs W. H. Okell, Rev E. C. and Miss Owen.
Mrs F. B. Phillips, Mrs Purchas (Dearden), Mr and Mrs Penketh (Hampton Court, Braddan), Mr and Mrs J. David Paul, Dr and Mrs Pantro, Mr, Mrs, and Mr 11. 0. Proctor Gregg, Miss Parkin, Miss Paton, Mrs and Miss Parkes, Mr and Mrs A. Penketh (Port Soderick), Councillor and Mrs J. W. Parkes, Mr and Mrs A. A. Watterson, Mr and Mrs de Pitchford.
Rev D. and Miss Quayle, Mr and Mrs J. Qualtrough, Mr J. D. Qualtrough, Mr Ambrose Qualtrough, Air and Mrs R. 13. Quirk, Rev Canon and Mrs Quine, Councillor and Mrs W. Quirk, Councillor and Mrs J. J Quine, Alderman and Mrs T. M. 1. Quayle.
Rev I. and Mrs Rostron, Misses Rowe, Attorney-General and Airs Ring, Miss Roddam, Town Clerk and Mrs Robertson, Mrs A. Roberts, Mr, Mrs J., and Miss Royston, Mr and Mrs IF. M. Rogers, Miss Ross.
Rev F. W. and Mrs Stubbs, Miss Smyly, Surgeon-General and Mrs T3. W. Stevenson, Rev T). H. and Mrs Stenning, Mr R. W. Smith, Air A. H. Nanson Sewell, Miss Shaw, Mr and Mrs C. R. Shimmin, Mr and Mrs W. C. Southward, Councillor and Mrs. S. T. Shippam, Mrs A. M. Stevenson, Mr, Mrs, and Miss M. R. Smith.
Mr and Mrs Trustrum, Mr Geo. R. and Miss E. B. Trustrum, Rev H. S. and Mrs Taggart Rev Martin and Mrs Taylor, Mr and Mrs A. J. Teare, Mr and Mrs A. H. Teare, Mr and Mrs D. J. Terre, Aft W. A. Tongue. Mr, Mrs, and Miss A. M.. Wilson, Mrs Ambrose Woods, Mr Harold Watson.
Miss Van Someran.
Mrs Wakefield, Dr and Mrs Woods, Dr Lionel and Miss Woods, Lieut.-Col. and Mrs Wood, Miss A1. L. Wood, Rev R. and Mrs Wakeford, Mr W. G. Wilson, Mrs A, R. Winsloe, Major and Mrs Watson, Mr and Mrs G. H. Wood, Mr and Mrs W. Williams.

Immediately after their withdrawal from the garden party, their Majesties, the Home Secretary, and the Royal Suite, left for the Victoria Pier, where a launch awaited to convey them to their yacht. The appearance of the Royal cars on. the Promenade caused considerable surprise as they were not expected until 5-15, and it was then 3-45. There was little cheering, obviously due to the fact that the people doubted whether the King and Queen were in their car or not.

THE DEPARTURE.

Four o'clock had just struck, when the launch containing the Royal party moved off from the Pier in the direction of the "Victoria and Albert.' Their "Majesties, received a tremendous ovation as their launch ploughed through the waves, both from the people who were congregated at the end of the Victoria and Battery Piers, and from the ships that were berthed close by.

The Royal yacht sailed at 3 p.m.

THE HONOURS. THE GOVERNOR KNIGHTED.

Prior to the departure of the Royal party, Lord Stamfordham notified the press representatives that the King had appointed the Lieut.-Governor (Major-General Wm. Fry, C.V.O., C.B.), a Knight Commander of the, Victorian Order, and had also appointed the, Government Secretary (Mr B. E. Sergeaunt, O.B.E.), and the Chief Constable, (Lieut.-Colonel H. W. Madoc) Members of the Victorian Order (First Class).

During his visit to the Nunnery, the King conferred upon Lady Fry the Order of the British Empire.

KING'S MESSAGE to the MANX PEOPLE.

Major-General Sir William Fry, Lieut.-Governor of the Island, received the following message from the King on Thursday evening

O. H. M S.,

Holyhead, 8-50 p.m. To Sir William Fry, Douglas.

We have arrived at Holyhead at eight o'clock, after a capital passage. And I wish again to thank you and Lady Fry for all your kindness, and for the trouble taken by you in connection with our visit. The Queen and I were touched by the enthusiastic welcome given to us and our daughter by the vast number of people that we have had the pleasure of seeing in the last two days. We shall preserve the happiest recollection of our first visit to the Isle of Man.

GEORGE, R.I.

15th July, 1920.

PARAGRAPHS OF INTEREST.

During the inspection of the ex-servicemen at Ramsey, Hiss Majesty chatted with Major Brown, of the 47th Sikhs, who paraded in a chair, owing to spinal trouble due to a wound in the back. Col. Wiggram, the King's private secretary, recognised in Major Brown a brother officer of his old regiment, and a warm re-union ensued.

Private Arthur Scoles, of the R.A.F., who was on parade at Peel with a bandaged head, attracted the notice of the Queen and Princess Mary, who both expressed their sorrow at his bad luck and wished him a speedy recovery.

The King and Queen sent for Mr Goldie-Taubman at Government House before the garden party on Thursday, and their Majesties presented him with two autographed portraits of themselves.

Passing out of Peel, general merriment was caused by gramophones placed at boarding house windows of the main street, which simultaneously struck up the National Anthem. The King saluted in response.

Conversing with the Bishop, the King expressed his deep regret at the change of programme rendered necessary by the weather, and at the inconvenience which this change had caused to the people of the Islands. "One thing we cannot do," he said, laughingly, "alter the weather." The address presented to the King at Villa Marina was specially designed by Mr Archibald Knox, of Douglas. Beautifully illuminated, it is an artistic triumph. It was presented in a Manx oak case made by Mr W. J. Ashburner, of Douglas, and carved by Mr Joseph Cannell, of Bucks-road, Douglas- Her Majesty the Queen was presented with a judiciously embossed leather case, the work of Mrs Thompson, of the Wimbledon Knox Guild. It contained sketches of the following Manx scenes by Mr A. Leach, of Douglas :-Tower of Refuge, Douglas Head, Jubilee Clock and Parade, Government Buildings, East Baldwin, Town Hall, Douglas; Port St. Mary, Manx Cottage at Ballabeg, Castle Rushen, Peel Castle, and Villa Marina.

The preliminary arrangements in connection with the King's Visit to Castletown, were excellently managed by Mr Charles E. Watterson, Town Clerk, (hon. secretary to the general committee).

In the evening, at Castletown, after the Royal visit, a confetti carnival and dance was held on the Parade, the music being provided by the Metropolitan Brass Band, under the leadership of Mr W. H. Cubbon.

Hs Majesty, on learning that some of the men who paraded before him had not yet received their service medals, instructed Lieut. Clark to furnish him with a list of names and promised that the matter would receive attention. There are a number of other men throughout the Island who are similarly situated.

We were pleased to note that the official pilot car in the Royal procession, directly preceding the car conveying their Majesties, was a 18 hp. Rover touring car belonging to Messrs Fargher's Garage, Limited, and that the rearguard car was another similar car supplied by the same firm and in each case driven by Manx drivers. These two well-known locally-owned and driven cars were the only two Manx cars officially in the programme. The driver of the pilot car was Mr James Corlett, an ex-service man, who during the great war served in his Majesty's Forces for over four years, and upon him devolved the responsible task of indicating to their Majesties' chauffeur the difficulties experienced in negotiating our winding roads and the steep hill abounding upon the routes traversed by the Royal procession. It must be a source of gratification to Mr Corlett to know that his efficient pilotage of the Royal procession and his careful indication of awkward places to he negotiated upon the Royal routes was sufficiently appreciated to deserve special praise from his Majesty's chauffeur directly following him, and that his reliability was also commented upon by the Chief Constable (Colonel Madoc) and Mr Burbridge, of the Daimler Hire Company, Limited. by whom the Daimler cars were supplied for the use of their Majesties and their entourage. The rearguard car, another of the well-known and reliable Rover cars run by Messrs Fargher's Garage, Limited, was driven by Mr Edwin Clague, and upon this car devolved the conveyance of Superintendent Spencer. Mr Clague is also an ex-service than, having had over four years' service with his Majesty's Forces at Salonica. Thus the Royal procession was composed of entirely British cars, the pilot car and the rearguard cars being Rovers. It is also worthy of mention that the sudden change of plans necessitated by the disembarkation of the Royal visitors at Ramsey instead of Douglas, as arranged, compelled the pilot car to accomplish a journey from Douglas to Ramsey in 26 minutes to enable the Chief Constable (Colonel Madoc) to meet their Majesties upon disembarkation. This task was easily accomplished by the car which Messrs Fargher's garage placed upon the road, and speaks volumes for the reputation for reliability already earned by this well-known local firm.

The four Daimler landaulettes which were used by the Royal party during their visit to the Island are magnificient examples of the products of the world-famous Daimler Company, and belong to the Daimler Hire Company, of Store-street, Tottenham Court Road, London, the firm which supplies motor carriages to all monarchs and other important people who from time to time visit England. They were in charge of Mr Burbridge and were hired through the Athol Motor Garage, Ltd., of Hill-street, where the cars were lodged. His Majesty's car was driven by ex-Sergt. G. Willsdon, late of the R.A.F., and who has driven his Majesty on very many public and other occasions. He is a most experienced driver. The second driver to his Majesty's car was W. G. Bolton. His Majesty's car carried no registered numbers but only the " Royal Standard" and the Club badge of the Royal Automobile Club.

When her Royal Highness Princess Mary was en route to Castletown, she, on seeing he Girl Guide lined up as a guard of honour in Victoria Street, expressed a desire to stop and inspect them. This was found to be impossible op. account of the delay which had previously occurred in His Majesty's arrival at Douglas. It was, howover, promised that Her Royal Highness would have an opportunity of inspecting a number of Guides who had been invited to attend and assist as waitresses the following day at His Excellency and Lady Fry's Garden Party. In accordance with Princess Mary's wish the Guides were lined up on the lawn and duly inspected by Her Royal Highness, who was accompanied by Mrs Cunningham, the Island Commissionor of the Guides The Princess expressed her approval of the movement and satisfaction with the smart appearance the Guides presented. Immediately after the inspection by the Princess, their Majesties the King and Queen also inspected the Guides. His Majesty graciously exhibited much interest and conversed with some of the Guides.

ENGLISH PRESS COMMENTS.

The "Manchester Guardian" says:-

MAN AND ITS ROYAL VISITORS.

A LANDING AT RAMSEY.

The Royal yacht put into Douglas Harbour at noon to-day, and having evoked an hour-long slapping of gunfire from the. antique guns; ashore, left with its big escort of Dreadnoughts and destroyers to find another anchorage at Ramsey. The King and Queen and Princess Mary motored from Ramsey to the pier at Douglas, so that the programme might go forward with as little modification as possible.

Unfortunately the change. of programme involved a delay of nearly two hours, but Douglas waited, not without impatience, but without any sign of ill-humour. The legislative elders of the Island packed the high stone pier, and for these elders the coming of the Lord of Man to his remote but friendly kingdom, after a longish interval, was historically rather thrilling. It is doubtful, and it would be surprising, if the English visitors participated in this particular thrill.

The minds of the elders might excusably go back over the years to the time when a Viking King landed, at first to plunder and then to occupy, the various periods when the Stanleys. and Atholls possessed the prerogatives and until the fifteenth century, assumed the title of royalty. It was from them that the Crown had acquired their privileges of lordship, one recollected, and in the coming of the King of England as Lord of the Isle the elders doubt-less felt a sanction had been given to their historic mode of independent government.

Yet looking upon the immense crowd on the Douglas sea-front, which was walled with masses of visitors, one felt sure that any historic value the event might have was very effectually linked about 'with values of a rather different order. For most of the crowd the event was taken to justify their special taste in holiday scenery and summer amusement. Probably their sole intent was without delay to induct the King and Queen into the incredible spirit of Douglas. But for the lateness of their Majesties arrival this intention would have succeeded even better than it did.

A BEAUTIFUL BAY

At the time when the King was due to arrive Douglas had so pleasing an air of un-reality that it might have been detached whole from the railway-poster world. The sun shone so that all the stone in the place looked white. Onchan Head and Douglas Head, the fixed points of the bay, stood out as if to trap the evasive coils of violet that made the sea alive with beauty. The big house; and hotels stood whitely out from the high folds of greenness that fall steeply to the water's edge, and the ugly line of boarding-houses was pleasantly confused by a metropolitan profusion of bunting. At that time it was easy to believe that the entire population of the Island had rushed to one side, so that, as someone said, the Island might be expected to list like a paddle boat passing something, unusual.

As time were on, and all that was viiiblo ot the mountain road to Ramset' remained, empty, the spirit of the weather changed ande .e searching wind chilled the waiting crowd. The gun on the fort reported succesive stages or. the journey, but only for the initiated., Nevertheless, excitement revived considerably when a cloud of dust was perceived moving at a great rate along the high road over Onchan Head. As the Royal procession of cars passed along the Promenade the crowd warmed itself with cheers that had pronouncedly a strong Lancashire accent. Flags of every land were waved, cameras clicked incesantly all along the route, and the noise was borne faintly over the sands, from which the tide had receded, to the Legislative Council and principal officials assembled at the pierhead.

On the pier the King proceeded at once to inspect long lines of ex-service men, and during the inspection the Legislative Council and the officers of the Island abandoned their striped awning at the end of the pier and hurried down in some confusion to be presented. At the Villa Marina everything was carried out according to plan: The King and Queen with Princess Mary and their retinue appeared on the terrace overlooking the lawn covered completely by white-frocked school children, who shrilled first the National Anthem and then the anthem of the Manx people.

When the ceremony at the Villa Marina was ended, late though the hour was, the King and Queen insisted on carrying out the programme which had been arranged. On their way back to Ramsey, Castletown, formerly the centre of civil and military government. in the Island was visited. The King made the acquaintance of the principal Officials of the town and inspected a great number of school children who were drawn up on the side of the road at Ballasalla.

A SMALL BUT LOYAL COMMUNITY.

Inside the dancing hall the King received an address from the Douglas Corporation. The address called attention to the unique aspects oi the Island and continued', "Though we are a small community and cherish our national independence and Constitution, we yield to: none in our devotion and loyalty to the Throne and in our deep appreciation of the honour. conferred on us by the visit of your Majesties.

In reply, the King referred to the Manx people ai a 'community small in numbers and placed in the midst of three great kingdoms, but nevertheless able to maintain its ancient Constitution and its natural individuality. He recalled the distress caused by the war in the Island and ;expressed his pleasure that the popularity of Man was rapidly reviving.

The "Daily Telegraph" says

AN ENTUSIAST'IC WELCOME.

The King, with the Queen and Princess Mary arrived in the Roynl yacht Victoria and Albert off the Isle of Man to-day (Wednesday). Owing to the weather the original intention to land at Douglas was frustrated, and the King and Queen eventually went ashore in the comparative shelter of Ramsey, on the other side of the Island. [sic !] Thence they motored to Douglas, where the official reception by the Lieut.-Governor and the members of the Isle of Man Legislature was proceeded with. Luckily for the comfort of the Royal party the weather abated during Tuesday evening, so that Victoria and Albert was able to weigh anchor at Hire(, a.m., under conditions of sailing that promised, arrival at Douglas at soh,e:doloc) time.

The Royal yacht had brought up in the bay off Douglas, and from her decks the King and Queon had an excellent panorama view of the town and the preparations made for their coming. A streamer which extended right across a building on high ground to the South displayed the words "Welcome to our Royal Visitors." It was hopeless to attempt a landing, so high were the seas, and Victoria and Albert proceeded with part of her escort to Ramsey. The remainder of the Fleet circled away to sea, and. proceeded southwards, as arranged.

LANDING AT RAMSEY.

As soon as the Victoria and Albert dropped anchor off Ramsey, the Lieut.-Governor of the Isle of Man (Major-General Fry) put off to convey the loyal greetings of the islanders. -Not until shortly after four o'clock did their Majesties step from the Royal barge on 'bo the pier, amid the cheers of the crowds gathered there. Cars which had boon hurried to the spot when the. arrangements were varied were in waiting to convey the party back to Douglas, a distance of fifteen miles over typical Manx motoring roads, offering wonderful views of the broken country about the coast. It tvers curious to reflect that the forces of Nature had so conspired that King George stepped on to teho Island for the first time at the precise spot at which King Edward and Queen Victoria had done so before him. His Royal grandparent [incorrect Queen Victoria never set foot on Island] was accompanied by the Prince Consort, and on an eminence high above the town a to,wor visible for many miles at sea masks the place to wheels Prince Albert ascended in order to view the town. Ramsey was loyally preparing to receive his Majesty to-morrow (Thursday), so that the, streets through which the Royal car passed were appropriately gay, and Douglas itself, vastly relieved after an apprehensive afternoon, cheered the King and Queen when they actually arrived. The town is at its zenith of a period of holiday festivity which recalls its pre-war popularity as a resort, ands it is filled with visitors. The front to-day when the King arrived was a spectacle to remember, with its mass of humanity penned between wooden barriers, and its gardens almost hidden behind lines of streamers.

Despite the lateness of the hour, the King embarked upon the full programme arranged in anticipation of a three o'clock arrival. He visited the Victoria Pier, to be received by the Legislature and tho harbour Commissioners, and to have presented to him the dignitaries of the locality, notable among them the Bishop of Sodor and Man, the members of the Legislative Concil, and the Speaker of House of Keys (Mr G. F. Clucas), Between the pier and the Peveril Hotel the King inspected a parade of ex-service men, and then drove along the front to the Villa Marina. Overlooking the wide sweep of the bay from the central point of its ame, the Villa had been chosen as a convenient place for the formalities attendant unon the Royal reception, Upon enteringl its grounds, however, the King and Queen had a charming reception from thousands of children drawn up facing the Villa. The children, many of whom in the fore-front were the veriest babies sang " God Save the King," and the Manx Anthem in the Ense, tombue, and then cheered and waved handkerchiefs of varing colours while the King, in Admiral's uniform, with the Queen and Princess Mary, stead before them. The Royal ladies were heartily delighted with their experience with the children, and were obviously loth to part from them. Inside the Villa their Majesties were received by the Mayor (Mr John Kelly), in the presence of a great gathering. The Mayor handed to the King an address, which was read by the Town Clerk (Mr Alexander Robertson), and extended on behalf of the burgesses a heartfelt welcome to their Majesties on the occasion of their first visit to the shores of the Island. The address referred to the ancient constitution and history of the Island, which rendered it in many respects unique among their Majesties' dominions. It declared that the inspiring example and ready sympathy shown by the King aind Queen during the war knit together all Manxmen with the rest of their subjects in a common bond of gratitude and affection towards them.

After the presentation of the principal local people, the gathering gave three cheers for their Majesties on the call of the Mayor. Afterwards the, King and Qneen had tea at the Nunnery, and then motored to Castletown, the old capital of the Island, where they tiuere received by the High-Bailiff, the Chairman of the Commissioners and the Town Clerk. The King inspected a large number of ex-servicemen and the O.T.C. of King William's College, while the Queen and Princess Mary visited Castle Rushen, a well preserved pile which has figured largely in the history of this Islands race. During the course of their drive their Majesties were delighted to observe the children of the various towns and villages drawn up on the route.