Thursday, October 21, 2010

Alfonso's cousin to tour America




October 21, 1928

The New York Times reports today on an "unofficial preliminary" visit to the United States by Infante Don Alfonso of Orléans-Borbon, a first cousin of King Alfonso XIII.  The Infante's visit is meant to test the waters for the King's proposed visit to the United States and South America.  Don Alfonso and his wife, Beatriz, a sister of Queen Marie of Roumania, will sail on the Majestic on November 7.  They will tour America and "be entertained in both social and official circles."

Although Don Alfonso does not have "Governmental sponsorship," he has been charged with "personal messages from the King to President Coolidge," and other important political and business leaders. He will carry instructions to Ambassador Padilla, and "will make a complete report to the King on his trip, with details on all subjects interesting the monarch."

Don Alfonso "is the commanding officer of the Spanish air forces and wears the uniform of a Lieutenant Colonel of the aviation corps."  He is one of Spain's "greatest aviation enthusiasts," and during his stay in the United States, he will meet with American aviation leaders.

Both Alfonso and his wife, Beatriz, born Princess Beatrice of Edinburgh, speak fluent English.  They are inveterate travelers and "have visited all the continents except those of the Western Hemisphere."

Don Alfonso is the eldest son of Infanta Doña Eulalia, who is King Alfonso's aunt.  They will be accompanied on their trip, by their eighteen-year-old son, Infante Don Alvaro.

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