Imperial Valley Press

FIVE CHRYSLERS PURCHASED BY JAPANESE RULER

When Japan's new emperor proceeds from his Tokio palace next fall to ascend his "High August Seat", in Nippon's ancient flower capital, his procession will faithfully reproduce in all respects but one the time-established ceremonial observed by the long list of his forebears who have preceded him along the triumphal way to Kvoto. This one respect will be that the members of the Imperial household and Diplomatic Corps will ride in automobiles.

Already, although the sacred rice which the Emperor will offer to the spirit of his ancestors is barely planted, preparations for the brilliant coronation ceremonies are well under way and representatives of the Japanese Government have bought five Chrysler limousines for use on the memorable occasion, and thereafter, by members of the Imperial household.

The cars for this Imperial use are appropriately of the Imperial "so" model, and embody all the sumptuous luxury associated with royal usage. They are contracted for delivery in May and are being fitted up in accordance with rigid specifications laid down by Japanese custom. Their color will be the exact shade of red which is reserved in Japan for the exclusive use of the Imperial household, but alien hands are not entrusted with the delicate task of painting on them the royal crest which distinguishes all articles set apart for the Mikado's family. That function is to be performed by skilled artisans in Tokio, who know by long practice the precise outlines of the symbol and who alone can portray them with the precision demanded by tradition.

The five Chryslers were purchased in Detroit by James D. Nason, managing director of the Yashima Automobile company, Chrysler representatives at Tokio, who was accompanied on the mission from Japan by Kanetaro Wakita, also a director of the company.