n6 ST. HELENA 



music, the Band of the " Buffs " accompanied the hymn, 

 and played the National Anthem. After service the 

 Artillery lined up near Plantation House, when H.E. the 

 Governor distributed to them the medals and clasps so 

 hardly won in South Africa, and made them a most impres- 

 sive speech. 



All this time preparations had been going forward for 

 the Coronation festivities ; but by the cable news it was 

 known that the King was far from well, and on June 24 

 was received the following cable : " The Coronation 

 is postponed indefinitely, owing to the indisposition of the 

 King, who is suffering from perityphlitis surgical opera- 

 tion is necessary." This caused great depression, and all 

 preparations for ball, regatta, teas, etc., etc., were at an 

 end. The regatta however came off the following week, 

 and was a great success, mainly due to the cheerful energy 

 of Mr. R. R. Bruce, Naval Agent. 



A loyal Coronation address had been illuminated by 

 H.E the Governor and forwarded to England in a most 

 beautiful casket of island ebony. The casket was elabo- 

 rately carved by one of the prisoners of war, many of whom 

 excelled in the art of carving. It was as follows : 



FROM THE ISLAND OF ST. HELENA. 



May it please your Gracious Majesty, we, your loyal subjects 

 of this your most ancient Colony of St. Helena, beg humbly to lay 

 at the foot of your throne this our expression of deep loyalty and 

 devotion to your Majesty and to our beloved Queen, your most 

 gracious Consort, offering you our heartfelt congratulations on this 

 auspicious occasion of your Coronation, and praying Almighty God 

 to bless you both with long life and unalloyed felicity and prosperity 

 beyond measure. 



After the declaration of Peace and publication through- 

 out the camps of the terms by which the war was ended, 

 notices were posted in English and Dutch throughout the 

 island, and arrangements made for the taking of an oath of 

 allegiance to Great Britain. 



The following Copy of Telegram from Secretary of State 

 to the Governor St. Helena, dated 5th June, 1902, is pub- 

 lished for general information : 



