Elizabeth II

I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.

It is easy enough to define what the Commonwealth is not. Indeed this is quite a popular pastime.

They are not royal. They just happen to have me as their aunt.

Discrimination still exists. Some people feel that their own beliefs are being threatened. Some are unhappy about unfamiliar cultures. They all need to be reassured that there is so much to be gained by reaching out to others that diversity is indeed a strength and not a threat.

These wretched babies don't come until they are ready.

The upward course of a nation's history is due in the long run to the soundness of heart of its average men and women.

I cannot lead you into battle. I do not give you laws or administer justice but I can do something else - I can give my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations.

Like all the best families we have our share of eccentricities of impetuous and wayward youngsters and of family disagreements

It's all to do with the training: you can do a lot if you're properly trained.

I have to be seen to be believed.

I myself prefer my New Zealand eggs for breakfast.

To what greater inspiration and counsel can we turn than to the imperishable truth to be found in this treasure house, the Bible?

But nothing that can be said can begin to take away the anguish and the pain of these moments. Grief is the price we pay for love.

We lost the American colonies because we lacked the statesmanship to know the right time and the manner of yielding what is impossible to keep.

Like all the best families, we have our share of eccentricities, of impetuous and wayward youngsters and of family disagreements.