Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother [antikvár]

To HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, from John Brooke-Little MVO, Richmond Herald of Arms Ma'am, it is very hard to believe that 80 summers have passed since you were born. For 24 years I have been an Officer of Arms, helping to arrange and take part in the great ceremonies of state, and so have stood on the touch-line watching the phenomenon of a changeless Queen. It has been a wonderful experience and a great privilege. You have sailed through the first 80 years of your life, many of them turbulent years, radiating serenity, infinite charm and amazing good humour. You have been a source of comfort and inspiration to countless thousands, performing your many tasks with love and for love. If you have ever felt weary and under the weather, and in the nature of things you must have, I can honestly say that I have never noticed it; your friendliness and warm smile are ever present. Thank you Ma'am for giving so much of yourself to so many for so long. In all you have done you have strayed far beyond the call of duty, but this, I assure you, has never been in vain nor gone unnoticed. I would like to think that you might now take a well-earned rest. I am afraid this is a vain hope, but at least do sit back and enjoy your birthday year, bathed in the warm sunshine of the love and gratitude of your innumerable admirers. May God bless you and grant you many more years of happiness.