Until the Græco-Turkish war broke out, King George was one of the most
popular monarchs in Europe. He believed in a liberal form of government
and he lived in a very simple and democratic style. His wife, too, was
highly esteemed for her fine character and abilities. She soon became
known for her great love of the sea, and she is said to be the only
woman in any navy in the world who holds a commission as admiral.

When, about a year ago, King George defied Turkey and the great powers
of Europe in his brave defence of Crete, and actually went to war with a
power vastly stronger than his own little kingdom, he was applauded for
his courage in nearly every country of the civilized world. It was even
thought that Greece was on the verge of winning back her old glory.

But the result proved to be a bitter disappointment. The Greeks were
utterly routed, and King George and Crown Prince Constantine, his son,
were accused of having shamefully mismanaged the war. At one time it
looked as if the royal family would be driven from Greece. It was
reported also that King George intended to abdicate.

Since the close of the war, however, the King has appeared in some
measure to have strengthened his position in Athens. The attempt on his
life, however, suggests that the feeling against him among his people
must still be strong. It is reported that during the last few months
his life has been repeatedly threatened.

Two days after the attack was made on the King, one of his assailants,
while being searched for, gave himself up.

He proved to be an ignorant man named Karditza. It is thought that his
mind had been inflamed against King George by the severe criticisms made