Mrs. Eddy Mentioned Them November 28, 1959 Issue

William IV, 1765-1837

[Mentioned in Science and Health, p. 163]

William IV, known as the "sailor king," succeeded his brother George IV to the throne of England in his sixty-fifth year. The third son of George III, William had received no training for the kingship. At fourteen he was entered in the Navy and served under Rodney and later under Nelson.

William's interest in the Navy persisted all his life, although his service ceased when he was made Duke of Clarence in 1789. Because previously he had sailed for England, when he had been given command of a small ship and ordered to winter in Quebec, his father rarely gave him independent employment. As a result William led the life of a country gentleman. He was, however, formally promoted through the various ranks, finally being made Lord High Admiral.

William was the first prince to visit America. The characteristics noted in New York on his arrival as "a fine, bluff boy of sixteen, frank, cheery and affable" were evident when he became king.

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