On Thursday the eightieth birthday of the Emperor Francis Joseph
was celebrated throughout Austria-Hungary with much enthusiasm. The Emperor passed the day at Ischl, and received telegrams of congratulation from all over the world. Nowhere are sentiments of respect and regard for the Emperor entertained more strongly than in Great Britain ; the details of the reign of no Sovereign are more familiar to Englishmen. Great Britain has watched for two genera- tions with admiration and gratification the wisdom and sane adaptability of the Emperor who passed from a stage of rigid autocracy to that of mellow sympathy with democratic move- ments. More than a year ago onr traditional friendliness with Austria-Hungary was strained severely, but we are glad to think that the temporary estrangement is over. Every Englishman wishes the Emperor many more years of peacJ. happiness, and prosperity.
