Tokio, Feb. 19.
In connexion with "the serious affair" which has recently created a sensation in the Japanese press, Kokusai learns on the best authority that the question is entirely unconnected with the Crown Prince's trip to Europe. A movement has been, and still is, afoot in certain quarters for postponement of His Imperial Highness' departure, but this, it is stated, is solely prompted by fears for the Prince's personal safety while abroad, owing to the present disturbed conditions all over the world. This, however, will make no difference in the plans for the Crown Prince's departure and itinerary, as already announced.
Kokusai is further assured, on the same high authority, that the reports of factional intrigue in court circles" have been much exaggerated, and are to be entirely discredited. It is a fact that the question of \the Crown Prince's marriage (raised by the opposition of certain noble families of Kioto) has been thoroughly discussed, but the matter. Kokusai is informed, has been satisfactorily cleared up.
When the mere fact that the marriage was under discussion became known, it created a sensation. Various rumours began to be circulated and certain politicians seized on these to propagate magnified reports of disagreement in Court circles. This necessitated the publication of the formal announcement that the marriage would proceed as arranged. Baron Nakamura, Minister of the Imperial Household, assumed responsibility for the misunderstanding and resigned. As already announced, Viscount Makino has been appointed his successor.
No reliable information is available as to whether Prince Yamagata has resigned, or not.—Reuter.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.