29 JUNE 1912, Page 32

A RECORD REIGN.

[To THE EDITOR OF THE 'SPECTATOR,")

SIR,—It would seem that the first week of July will furnish us with the longest recorded instance of the active exercise of sovereignty. Louis XIV. of France reigned seventy-two years, but he was only five at the time of his accession. James I. of .Aragon reigned sixty-three years, but he, too, was only a child when he attained to kingship. Queen Victoria and the Emperor Francis Joseph each succeeded to the throne at the age of eighteen, and therefore at full age for sovereignty. Queen Victoria reigned sixty-three years, seven months, and two days. The Emperor Francis Joseph will exceed this record in the first week of July. —I am, Sir, Sz.c.,

28 Marlborough Road, Bradford. C. T. KNAVE.