Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee

— “A never to be forgotten day,” was how the queen described the ceremonies marking her 60 years on the throne. “No one ever, I believe, has met with such an ovation as was given to me, passing through those six miles of streets. . . . The crowds were quite indescribable and their enthusiasm truly marvellous and deeply touching. The cheering was quite deafening, and every face seemed to be filled with real joy.”

That is how Queen Victoria, the greatest queen of England not named Elizabeth, described her diamond jubilee in 1897—a time not entirely dissimilar from our own, with its financial uncertainties and mounting doubts about the future. Yet her subjects had turned out to cheer their queen, and express their gratitude for 60 years of stoic service on the throne. “I was much moved and gratified,” the dear lady added.

Now the ceremonies begin for the current queen’s diamond jubilee. She, too, has weathered a sea of troubles, personal and imperial, and through it all retained her dignity and calm. Britain and the whole English-speaking world will celebrate her 60-year reign this year. And should. God save the queen!

Editorial, Pages 18 on 05/25/2012

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