The second paragraph makes allusion to recent festivities in honor of the
marriage of Prince Henry, brother of the King, to the grand niece of the
Emperor of Germany. There were very general and enthusiastic demonstrations
of satisfaction throughout Holland on account of this alliance.
It may also in this connection be proper to mention that I have been
officially informed by the minister of foreign affairs of the betrothal of
[Page 703]
the King of Holland in
marriage with Princess Adelaide Emma, third daughter of Georg Victor, Prince
of Waldeck-Pyrmont, a principality of the German Confederation. The
engagement was proclaimed on the 29th ultimo. The date of the marriage is
not yet announced.
[Inclosure in No.
80.—Translation.]
opening of the states general,
1878–’79.
Address from the throne.
Gentlemen: It gives me pleasure, at the opening
of this session of the States General, to make favorable communications
concerning the situation of the country.
I appreciate highly the interest recently shown in the happiness of my
beloved brother, and the many testimonies of the love of the people for
my house, by the kind reception of his wife on the occasion of her
arrival upon Dutch territory.
My relations with foreign governments are most friendly.
The navy and the army continue to distinguish themselves by the zealous
performance of their important duties. The valor with which our soldiers
accomplish their difficult task on the north of Sumatra is highly
praiseworthy.
Most of the branches of the industries of the nation are satisfactory.
Agriculture prospers and gives hope of a large harvest.
The situation of the finances indicates that the time has come for the
serious consideration of the methods for the increase of the revenues of
the state. Proposals to that effect, keeping in view a desirable reform
of the taxes, will be introduced to you.
The review of the penal code is so far advanced that you may expect to
receive the report during the present session.
Public instruction continues to be the subject of my constant solicitude.
Your concurrence will be asked to put into effect the law for higher
instruction and to bring into working order the new law for primary
education.
The general situation of our East Indian possessions may be regarded as
satisfactory, while the peace that has prevailed elsewhere has fulfilled
our hopes. During the past year our expectation of the course of events
in the north of Sumatra has not been realized. To maintain our authority
there will require new and extraordinary measures.
The opportunity of supplying laborers for Surinam has been temporarily
opened.
The calamity at Curaçoa was met by the charitable aid of the people here
and in the Netherland East Indies.
Different bills upon various subjects will be presented to you. Important
business awaits your action.
Gentlemen: May your deliberations, under the Divine blessing, result in
the public prosperity. I declare the ordinary session of the States
General to be opened.
