Deseret Evening News

A PURE FLAG.

The agitation in Norway for what is known as the pure Norwegian flag has culminated in an act by the Storthing, eliminating from the national emblem the symbol of union with Sweden. The measure has met with long and persistent remonstrance on the part of the sailors of Norway who had found the symbol of union a source of strength in foreign harbors. The advocates of a pure flag have prevailed at last, and the consequence is that the union jack will float no more from the masts of Norwegian merchant vessels. Men-of-war and fortifications will presumably continue to fly the old colors, as a change in the flag of the navy and army would signify the entire dissolution of the union. In the Swedish flag, the Norwegian colors are likely to be retained. It has been fondly hoped that the efforts of King Oscar for the promotion of a good understanding between the two nations over which he presides would finally bring the desired results, but it seems the cleavage is widening. The two countries have entirely separate and distinct governments, though they have a common king and common representation abroad. The union is virtually little more than a defensive alliance. But even this seems humiliating to the pride of the Norwegian people who claim that it is inconsistent with perfect political equality. The flag of Norway, with the jack left out, will be four red corners, with a Greek cross of blue through the center. The Swedish flag has four blue corners, with a jack of red, blue and yellow in the upper left-hand corner and a Greek cross of yellow in the center.