NEWS OF THE WEEK.
The Gazelle of Tuesday contained an official announcement of the betrothal of the Princess Helena Augusta Victoria to "His Serene Highness Prince Frederic Christian Charles Augustus of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Augustenburg," and of the Queen's assent thereto. One of the first resolutions submitted to the House of Commons will be a dower for the Princess, which will of course be voted without debate. We trust, however, that there is no truth in a rumour that a large appanage is to be demanded for the Prince, a sum altogether in excess of the 6,0001. a year usually allowed to English Princesses. The House will scarcely refuse any direct request from the Crown, more especially as the leaders of party will be afraid to oppose, but it will create a bitter feeling throughout the country, perhaps produce a demand for inquiry whether a constitutional Sovereign can be wisely per- mitted to possess great personal wealth. The Royal House has for thirty years been most moderate in its requests of the nation, and the same moderation will be wise as a permanent tradition. It Os hard to see why a nation which wastes so much should object to a personal grant to a highly popular Princess, but that it will object if the grant is asked for is beyond all doubt.
