14 OCTOBER 1966, Page 12

Cbe Zpecta tor

October 13, 1866

A strangely sorrowful, yet dramatic story, is told of the Empres$ Charlotte of Mexico. It is said, and it seems to be true, that the fatigues and excitements of the last few years, culminat- ing in the final refusal of the Emperor Napoleon to assist Mexico with further troops or treasure, have overset her reason. The unhappy lady, daughter and wife of reigning Sovereigns, has become a monomaniac, believes herself sur- rounded with poisoners, and recently besought the Pope to allow her to remain in the Vatican, where alone she was safe.