Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Eitel Friedrich gives up post in scandal





November 16, 1926

Prince Eitel Friedrich, the second son of the former Kaiser Wilhelm II,  has tendered his resignation as Grand Master of the Order of St. John, reports the Associated Press.  

The Prince was forced to resign his position after a Berlin court named him as the "guilty party" in his former wife's divorce suit. Under the rules of the Order, the Grand Master must be above reproach.

Officers of the Order responded:  "We bow to your will with heavy hearts, though firmly convinced that, in the regrettable events which force you to your last step, not a shadow of guilt falls on Your Royal Highness.  Your honor is unstained; your chivalry alone, which is also recognized by the other party concerned (the Princess) prompted your decision."

Princess Eitel Friedrich, who was born Duchess Sophie Charlotte of Oldenburg, was granted a divorce in Potsdam in late October.  The proceedings were "conducted in secret" and the lawyers refused to "divulge the details."  It was announced that the divorce was granted on the grounds of Prince Eitel Friedrich's "ill-treatment, neglect and incompatibility of treatment."

Both the Prince and Princess are expected to remarry.  Prince Eitel Friedrich is reported to be engaged to Countess Mellin, a member of the Baltic nobility, who lives in Paris.

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