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

We have all felt those emotions in these last few days. So what I say to you now, as your queen and as a grandmother, I say from my heart.

Work is the rent you pay for the room you occupy on earth.

Therefore I am sure that this, my Coronation, is not the symbol of a power and a splendour that are gone but a declaration of our hopes for the future, and for the years I may, by God's Grace and Mercy, be given to reign and serve you as your Queen.

I have to be seen to be believed.

It has been women who have breathed gentleness and care into the hard progress of humankind.

First, I want to pay tribute to Diana myself. She was an exceptional and gifted human being. In good times and bad, she never lost her capacity to smile and laugh, nor to inspire others with her warmth and kindness. I admired and respected her - for her energy and commitment to others, and especially for her devotion to her two boys.