This has been an exciting week for the loyal monarchists of this self-governing dominion, with the news (inexplicably put on front pages) of yet another royal pregnancy. One hundred years ago today Australian newspapers published a message King George V had sent in this time of war, to his subjects in the self-governing dominions. How quaint is its imperial language!
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"To the Governments and Peoples of my Self-Governing Dominions.
"During the past few weeks the peoples of my whole Empire at home and overseas have moved with one mind and purpose to confront and overthrow an unparalleled assault upon the continuity of civilisation and the peace of mankind.
"This calamitous conflict is not of my seeking ... but had I stood aside ... I should have sacrificed my honour and given to destruction the liberties of my Empire and of mankind. I rejoice that every part of the Empire is with me in this decision. The paramount regard for the pledged word of rulers and peoples is the common heritage of Great Britain and the Empire. My peoples in the self-governing Dominions have shown beyond all doubt that they wholeheartedly endorse the grave decision.
"My personal knowledge of the loyalty and devotion of my overseas Dominions had led me to expect that they would cheerfully make great efforts and bear great sacrifices. I am proud to be able to show to the world that my people overseas are as determined as the people of the United Kingdom to prosecute a just cause to a successful end."
