Emperor Made Him Young

Society in Budapest is hearing another story which illustrates the simple good nature that makes the Empercr Francis Joseph popular among his unruly subjects. Herr Sikel, a Hungarian deputy, after growing gray in the exercise of his parliamentary duties, thought the time had come when he might ask for a post under the government as ths reward of his services. Acoordingly he called on the Premier. "My dear fellow," exclaimed Baron Banffy, "I should be deligbted to find you a billet, but nobody over 40 can be appointed to the civil service without the express permission of the Sovereign." So Herr Sikel. donning the na'ional costurrie, hurried up to Vienna, and to the Hofburg and after due preliminaries got an audience of his King. Ushered into the royal presence, he slid hls petition on to a side table and stood overawed, until Francis Joseph inquired:. "What can I do for you, my friend?" "Your Majesty, I should like to be 40 years of age." "Ah!" replied the King, "and so should I." But a glance at the furtive document had revealed his errand, and he was sent off rejoicing with the royal signatura.