§ LORD EUSTACE CECILsaid, he would beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether the statement contained in the public papers, to the effect that his Highness the Viceroy of Egypt is to be lodged at Mr. Larkins's private house during his residence in this country, is correct? This was a most important Question, and Egypt was a most important country, as far as this kingdom was concerned. He did trust that when the Ruler of that country came here we should be able to give him a reception suited to his rank.
LORD STANLEYThe statement, Sir, which has appeared in the newspapers, is so far correct that, as I understand, it was the original intention of the Viceroy to take up his quarters in the manner described. But upon hearing of his intended visit, sympathizing entirely in the opinion which my noble Friend has expressed, I thought it my duty to communicate with the Viceroy, and, on behalf of the Government, I addressed to him an invitation to take up his residence in London during the few days he passes in England, and be received as the guest of the State. That invitation, I am happy to say, he has accepted. Rooms have been prepared at Claridge's Hotel—rooms, I may remark, which have been occupied on former occasions by other crowned heads who have visited here—and we will take care that all 666 due honour shall be paid him both at his landing, upon his journey, and his arrival in London. I am sure it will be the general feeling, both in this House and out of it, that we ought to do what is in our power to show proper courtesy and respect to a Ruler who has always shown great goodwill and readiness to oblige where we have been concerned—a goodwill which is very important to us.