This new power, which has proved itself to be such a terrifying weapon of destruction, is harnessed for the first time for the common good of our community.

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

It has turned out to be an annus horribilis.

To all those who have suffered as a consequence of our troubled past I extend my sincere thoughts and deep sympathy. With the benefit of historical hindsight we can all see things which we would wish had been done differently or not at all.

We all need to get the balance right between action and reflection. With so many distractions, it is easy to forget to pause and take stock.

There are long periods when life seems a small, dull round, a petty business with no point, and then suddenly we are caught up in some great event which gives us a glimpse of the solid and durable foundations of our existence.

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