The reception of his Majesty by the people is said
to have been most cordial, and though this is denied, the half-superstitions expectation of great things from the only Sovereign ever born a King would probably for a time create some enthusiasm. At all events, all classes combined to make Madrid brilliant with colour, the householders according to their custom throwing bright carpets or silks over every balcony, while at night the illumination was of the kind which official orders do not
produce. There seems to have been little necessity for the immense force of Regulars with which General Weyler filled the streets; but perhaps he .understood the situation better than foreign critics, and . it seems certain that a group of Anarchists had zesolved on an attempt, which was foiled, though one man, believed to be mad, who threw a parcel into the King's carriage showed how futile military precautions are. All Europe had previously shown its sympathy by splendid Embassies, and by showering on the King the highest Orders, including that of the Garter.
