Twenty-five years ago, on July 29, the crack of an assassin's gun was heard in Rome: King Umberto had been murdered. Twenty-five years ago, on August 9, Prince Vittorio Emanuele was proclaimed King.
Not long ago, the King was reminded of the approach of his silver jubilee. On what day would he hold an official celebration? Certainly not on the anniversary of the death of his illustrious father. Not on August 9, for it is then too hot in Rome. But perhaps he would care to have it celebrated on May 24, the day upon which Italy entered the War? No, the Soldier-King, as the Italians call him, would not hold his jubilee on that day. He recalled that June 7 was Constitution Day, commanded that, on that day, would be celebrated the Silver Jubilee of his reign. It is typical of him to choose such a day.
The day came around, last week, and it seems doubtful if Rome had gazed upon such scenes since he that was to be Caesar Augustus returned there after the Battle of Actium. The city was gay with flags and bunting. The ceremonies began at 7 o'clock in the morning and the King and Queen spent a busy day, which began on the reviewing stand at 8 o'clock and ended late in the evening at the Quirinal Palace, the royal palace at Rome, formerly a summer residence of the Popes.