Gorgeous Georgios

Perhaps the Greeks, notoriously fickle, want a King, instead of the President (Alexander Zaimis) their Parliament has just" elected (TIME, Dec. 23). Last week obstreperous old Prime Minister Eleutherios Venizelos, 100% democrat and "Father of the Greek Republic," flung a bold challenge to Royalist Leader Panagiotis Tsaldaris.

"I am willing to hold a plebiscite here and now," he announced, "on the issue of whether Greece shall remain a republic."

Promptly. Tsaldaris henchmen sneered that of course the foxy "Old Man of Crete" would like to stage a plebiscite while his Government controls the Ministry of. Interior. The Minister of Interior conducts all Greek elections, is supposed to win most of them.

"I will amplify my offer," snapped bristling-mustached M. Venizelos next day. "I offer M. Tsaldaris the portfolio of Interior for the period of the plebiscite!"

Greek knows Greek. Tsaldaris knew that there must be aces up Venizelos' sleeves, whether or not they seemed to be rolled elbow high. Said he sulkily:"I will reserve my decision until I can investigate."

In Bucharest the news from Athens warmed the cockles of many a Rumanian heart. One of the sons-in-law of dynamic Dowager Queen Marie is insipid Georgios II, deposed King of the Hellenes. Doubtless he would resume his rule if by any remote chance Greece should go Royalist.

In 1924 Greeks plebiscited 758,742 for the Republic and only 325,322 for gorgeous Georgios, still one of the best-dressed men in Europe. He now lives in London, partly on the bounty of George V with whom he often dines, week ends.

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