Astrid has arrived in Brussels

November 8, 1926

Not since the "first days of the liberation in 1918" has Brussels seen such a rapturous celebration, reports the New York Times.  Crown Prince Leopold and his bride, Princess Astrid of Sweden have arrived in Belgium's capital, which is decked with flags and flowers.  It can be safely sad that the royal couple have made a "triumphant entry" into Brussels.  Crowds lined the streets, and "windows, balconies and roofs were occupied."
A "fanfare of trumpets" heralded the arrival of the royal train at 12:20 p.m.  A band played the Swedish national anthem.   King Albert was the first to step off the train, and was followed by his wife, Queen Elisabeth, both of whom shook hands with various dignitaries, and then stepped aside to give place to Crown Prince Leopold and Princess Astrid, who "were wreathed in smiles."
Astrid's parents, Prince Carl and Princess Ingeborg of Sweden came out next, along with Crown Prince Olav of Norway and Prince Charles of Belgium, Prince Eugen of Sweden, Comte Jean de Merode, Count d'Oultrement and Comtesse de Caraman-Chimay.
During the singing of several songs by a children's choir. Princess Astrid leaned on Leopold's arm.  She was dressed in white and "wholly free from self-consciousness.  She carried a bouquet of orchids, which had been presented to her by "a delegation of little girls."   She "made a delightful figure," and it was "quite impossible not to recognize the happiness which glowed in the faces of both herself and the Prince."
The rain did not deter the crowds or the royal party, which drove in open carriages.  The journey to the royal palace "was a triumphal procession through a cheering multitude."
At the Colonne du Congress,  Princess Astrid placed a wreath on the tomb of the Unknown Warrier.
Crowds outside the palace continued to grow, calling for the young couple to come out in the balcony.  Crown Prince Leopold and Princess Astrid came out and acknowledged the cheers, and were joined by their parents. 
The couple were married in a civil ceremony in Stockholm.  A Roman Catholic service will take place Wednesday at St. Gudule Cathedral.