October 31, 1955
Princess Margaret has announced that she decided she would not marry Group Captain Peter Townsend.
The brief statement was released at 7:00 p.m., by Clarence House. The 25-year-old Princess said her "regard for the Church and her duty to the Commonwealth made her reject: Townsend, the 40-year-old divorced airman.
Here is the text of the statement from Clarence House.
I would like it to be known that I have decided not to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend. I have been aware that, subject to my renouncing my rights of succession, it might have been possible for me to contract a civil marriage.
But mindful of the Church's teachings that Christian marriage is indissoluble, and conscious of my duty to the Commonwealth, I have resolved to put these considerations before others. I have reached this decision entirely alone, and in doing so I have been strengthened by the unfailing support and devotion of Group Captain Townsend.
I am deeply grateful for the concern of all those who have constantly prayed for my happiness. Margaret."
Group Captain Townsend drove to Clarence House, a "massive cream colored mansion, at 4:10 p.m. He left at 6:17 p.m, and returned to 19 Lowndes Square, where he had been staying with friends. It was learned earlier tonight that that the Group Captain would stayed at Uckfield House, the home of Lord Rpert and Lady Camilla Nevill, for a few days before returning to his post in Brussels on Monday.
At 9:00 p.m. a member of the household staff at Uckfield House walked to the gate where reporters were waiting. "Group Captain Townsend said he cannot say anything tonight. He is not in a fit state to see anyone tonight."
BBC Radio and television broke into programming at 8:00 p.m., to announce Princess' Margaret's statement.
The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh attended the "annual royal film show," a benefit for the Motion Picture Benevolent Association.
The Princess' "long-awaited" decision will come as a "relief to many. There were many insuperable obstacles to the marriage as Townsend is divorced. The Anglican church does not allow the remarriage of divorced persons if the former spouse is still alive. It didn't matter the the Group Captain was the innocent party in the divorce.
Others felt that the "dignity of the throne was being compromised" due to the "unchecked flood of rumor and speculation around the world."
There is now no question that Princess Margaret loves Group Captain Townsend, whom she saw on October 12 for the first time in two years.
Princess Margaret, who is third in line to the throne, has a "strong sense of duty," but has also shown a "strong independence." She is "gay, likes to dance, listen to tunes on a record player.
The actual decision was made several days earlier as she and Peter Townsend were feeling "thoroughly drained, thoroughly demoralized."
The Church of England had made things worse by telling Margaret that she would be barred from taking Holy Communion if she married Townsend. After her divorce from Antony Armstrong-Jones, the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Donald Coggan, told her that the Church had been wrong to make "so grave a threat."
As Margaret's biographer, Christopher Warwick pointed out, the Princess was "ill-equipped" for a life outside the "prescribed, structured and safe environment she had always known."
It was at the home of Jenny and John Lowther in Kensington on October 24 that Margaret and Peter decided to write a draft statement together. After it was completed, Peter said: "we looked at each other; there was a wonderful tenderness in her eyes which reflected, I suppose, the look in mine. We had reached the end of the road. Our feelings for one another were unchanged, but they had incurred for us a burden so great that we decided together, to lay it down."
The Archbishop of Canterbury was the first to be told. Margaret's meeting with him at Lambeth Palace was not for guidance. "Put away your books, Archbishop, I am not going to marry Peter Townsend. I wanted you to know first."
At Clarence House, for their final meeting, Margaret and Peter "drank a toast to to their past and both to their futures." After he left for Lowndes Square to "collect a few things," and then drive to Uckfield House, Margaret dined in alone, as her mother was at an engagement at London University, where she was the new Chancellor.
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Friday, October 30, 2015
Margaret's privacy guarded by police
October 31, 1955
Princess Margaret is spending the weekend at Uckfield House in Sussex, the home of Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla Nevill. Group Captain Peter Townsend is "understood" to be the guest of Lord Rupert's older brother, the Marquess of Abergavenny, at his country estate, Elridge Castle, about 10 miles away, reports the New York Times.
Lord Abergavenny and Lord Rupert are close friends of the Royal Family.
Police with walkie-talkie radios and police dogs are guarding the princess' privacy.
Princess Margaret and Townsend were seen together earlier today, "strolling on the grounds of Uckfield House. She had skipped church in order to spend time with Townsend, A small crowd had gathered outside the house, but the police asked them to leave.
The couple are beginning to show the strain as the "result of being constantly watched by crowds and newspaper men." The Observer reported today that it was "widely believed" that an announcement would not be delayed.
The newspaper also noted that if Princess Margaret "rejected" Townsend, she would be "presented as a martyr who had been sacrificed by the machinations of the Monarchy and the Church."
A large percentage of the public would not believe Margaret if she said she rejected Townsend because she did not love him. The general opinion would be that Margaret "had given way to cruel pressure."
If they married, and "withdrew into a private life," Princess Margaret, the editorial argued, that she might still "be depicted as a martyr," and the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Church of England, itself, and the Monarchy "might be widely criticized."
The romance between the 25-year-old princess and the 40-year-old divorced airman has "shaken the monarchy and the state church."
Another newspaper, The People, reports: "It is now an open secret that the Princess is defying the wishes of the Queen and her mother in insisting on further meetings with a man they have banished from royal circles."
Princess Margaret is spending the weekend at Uckfield House in Sussex, the home of Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla Nevill. Group Captain Peter Townsend is "understood" to be the guest of Lord Rupert's older brother, the Marquess of Abergavenny, at his country estate, Elridge Castle, about 10 miles away, reports the New York Times.
Lord Abergavenny and Lord Rupert are close friends of the Royal Family.
Police with walkie-talkie radios and police dogs are guarding the princess' privacy.
Princess Margaret and Townsend were seen together earlier today, "strolling on the grounds of Uckfield House. She had skipped church in order to spend time with Townsend, A small crowd had gathered outside the house, but the police asked them to leave.
The couple are beginning to show the strain as the "result of being constantly watched by crowds and newspaper men." The Observer reported today that it was "widely believed" that an announcement would not be delayed.
The newspaper also noted that if Princess Margaret "rejected" Townsend, she would be "presented as a martyr who had been sacrificed by the machinations of the Monarchy and the Church."
A large percentage of the public would not believe Margaret if she said she rejected Townsend because she did not love him. The general opinion would be that Margaret "had given way to cruel pressure."
If they married, and "withdrew into a private life," Princess Margaret, the editorial argued, that she might still "be depicted as a martyr," and the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Church of England, itself, and the Monarchy "might be widely criticized."
The romance between the 25-year-old princess and the 40-year-old divorced airman has "shaken the monarchy and the state church."
Another newspaper, The People, reports: "It is now an open secret that the Princess is defying the wishes of the Queen and her mother in insisting on further meetings with a man they have banished from royal circles."
German Princes who have died in the war
October 30, 1915
A German publisher has just released a book "dedicated to the memory" of nine German princes, who have died in battle since the outbreak of the war, reports the New York Times.
Sixty-four members of German royal and princely families are serving at the front, and, so far, nine, including Kaiser Wilhelm's nephew, have been killed in action.
Four of the nine princes were "relatives or connections" of the Princely house Lippe.
The nine princes who are profiled in this book are Maximilian of Hesse; Friedrich Wilhelm zur Lippe; Friedrich of Saxe-Meiningen and his son, Ernst; Ernst zur Lippe; Otto of Schönburg-Waldenburg; Wilhelm zu Schönaich-Carolath; Woldrad zu Waldeck-Pyrmont and Heinrich XLVI Reuss.
Prince Maximilian of Hesse was only 20 years old when he was killed in Northern France. He was one of six sons of Prince Karl Friedrich of Hesse and his wife, Princess Margarete of Hesse, youngest sister of Wilhelm II.
Prince Friedrich Wilhelm of Lippe was killed in the "very first engagement of the war, the storming of Liege. He was the younger brother of Count Ernst zur Lippe-Biesterfeld, and uncle of the present ruler, Prince Julius of Lippe-Biesterfeld. He was born in 1858.
Wilhelm II sent a message of condolence to the Prince of Lippe: "I beg you to accept the expression of my sincerest sympathy on the occasion of the death of your worthy uncle, who, as a shining example of a brave German prince, died at the head of his regiment at Liege for Emperor and empire."
Prince Friedrich Wilhelm was buried at Detmold.
Prince Friedrich of Saxe-Meiningen was the next to die in battle. His widow is the sister of the Prince of Lippe. Five months before his death, the prince and his wife celebrated their silver wedding anniversary. As the bells in Meiningen tolled for Prince Friedrich, the family learn that Friedrich's 18-year-old son, Prince Ernst, was wounded in northern France, and taken prisoner.
According to reports, Prince Ernst was shot in the head. He told his comrades: "We must not be taken. That would be terrible." He died the next day in a Maubeuge hospital.
Prince Ernst zur Lippe lost his life near St. Quentin in August 1914. He was born in 1892. He died instantly in an explosion and was buried near where he fell. Later he was exhumed and his remains brought to Detmold for reburial.
Prince Otto of Schönburg-Waldenburg was killed at Rheims shortly after his 33rd birthday. He had served on the eastern front, then transferred to France. Only ten days after "joining his regiment," he was killed.
He died while "making a reconnaissance to determine the enemy's position."
Prince Wilhelm of Schönaich-Carolath was killed in action in Belgium, just a few days before his 34th birthday.
Prince Wolrad Friedrich of Waldeck-Pyrmont was born in 1892. He was "killed on October 17, 1914, at Moorsledge while leading a patrol," according to the telegram sent to his family. He studied in Germany, before spending time at Oxford and at the University of Grenoble in France.
Prince Heinrich XLVI Reuss was 19 years old when he was killed. He left school to go to the front and reached the rank of Lieutenant in a Hessian regiment. His one wish was to receive the Iron Cross. This was not fulfilled. He died while attacking English trenches near La Bassee. Prince Wolrad was struck by shrapnel and died instantly.
British royals in the USA
Yes, there was a lot of media focused on Prince Harry's lightning visit to Fort Belvoir, Virginia, accompanied by the First Lady and Second Ladies, Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, followed by a meeting with President Obama at the White House. The Prince's final event was to take part in a planning meeting for the upcoming Invictus Games, which will be held in Orlando, Florida, in May 2016.
Prince Harry of Wales arrived Tuesday night at Dulles International Airport, and flew back home on Wednesday night. His motorcade to and from Fort Belvoir passed right by my office!
The fifth in line to the British throne was not the only British royal in the United States this week.
The Duke of Gloucester visited Greensboro, Alabama, on Thursday, visiting Habitat for Humanity. “I’m interested in Habitat for Humanity which does work, as you know, all over the world. And also to see what it does here for providing housing for those who need it most,” the Duke of Gloucester told reporters.
His next stop is New Orleans, Louisiana.
http://wiat.com/2015/10/29/duke-of-gloucester-visits-alabama/
The Duke and his Danish-born wife are, in my opinion, the unsung heroes of the British royal family. The Duchess was recently on an official visit to Bermuda.
The Princess Royal was the guest of honor at a lunch in Brooklyn on Thursday. The luncheon was held to raise funds for the 250-year-old warship HMS Victory. On Wednesday night, the Princess had dinner at the home of the British Consul General.
http://pagesix.com/2015/10/29/princess-anne-gets-the-royal-treatment-in-brooklyn/
Golden Fleece for the Princess of Asturias
Earlier today, the Spanish Cabinet approved two royal decrees by King Felipe VI granting the order of the Golden Fleece to Infanta Leonor, the Princess of Asturias, and her official standard.
The two decrees will be made official following the publication tomorrow in the Boletin Oficial del Estado (Offical Bulletin of State). The Princess of Asturias will celebrate her tenth birthday tomorrow.
The Princess of Asturias is the heiress to the Spanish throne. She has a younger sister, Infanta Sofia. The Order is Spain's highest honor, and the presentation to the Princess is a natural step in her position as heir.
The Order of the Golden Fleece, an order of chivalry, was founded in 1430 in Bruges, by Duke Philip II of Burgundy, when he married Infanta Isabel of Portugal.
Today, there are two branches -- Spain and Austria -- of the order, and the current heads are King of Spain and Archduke Karl of Austria.
It will be a private birthday celebration for the Princess of Asturias.
http://www.teinteresa.es/politica/MINISTROS-APRUEBA-PRINCESA-ASTURIAS-CUMPLEANOS_0_1458454825.html
The two decrees will be made official following the publication tomorrow in the Boletin Oficial del Estado (Offical Bulletin of State). The Princess of Asturias will celebrate her tenth birthday tomorrow.
The Princess of Asturias is the heiress to the Spanish throne. She has a younger sister, Infanta Sofia. The Order is Spain's highest honor, and the presentation to the Princess is a natural step in her position as heir.
The Order of the Golden Fleece, an order of chivalry, was founded in 1430 in Bruges, by Duke Philip II of Burgundy, when he married Infanta Isabel of Portugal.
Today, there are two branches -- Spain and Austria -- of the order, and the current heads are King of Spain and Archduke Karl of Austria.
It will be a private birthday celebration for the Princess of Asturias.
http://www.teinteresa.es/politica/MINISTROS-APRUEBA-PRINCESA-ASTURIAS-CUMPLEANOS_0_1458454825.html
Thursday, October 29, 2015
A new princess
October 29, 1875
From Clarence House: the following telegram was to-day received from Eastwell Park: "Her Royal and Imperial Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh was safely delivered of a Princess at 10 30 this day. Her Royal and Imperial Highness and the infant Princess are doing perfectly well. "
The official announcement was signed by three medical doctors: Arthur Farre, Wilson Fox and George Wilks.
Before noon "the intelligence was telegraphed to Her Majesty at Balmoral," and to the Princess of Wales at Sandringham. The news was also sent by telegraph to the Prince of Wales, but he had already left Suez, and will not receive word until he arrives at Bombay.
News of the "interesting event" was also sent to the Duchess of Edinburgh's parents, the Emperor and Empress of Russia, and to the Tsarevitch at St. Petersburg.
A second bulletin was issued at 6 p.m, and telegraphed by the Duke of Edinburgh from Eastwell Park to Clarence House:
"Her Royal and Imperial Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh has passed a comfortable day, and, as well as the infant Princess, is going on quite well."
Is Queen Elizabeth preparing for Margaret's wedding in Scotland?
October 29, 1955
Queen Elizabeth II is in Scotland this week to "smooth the way" for Princess Margaret's wedding to Group Captain Peter Townsend, reports the Los Angeles Times. A wedding in the Presbyterian church is possible unless the Church of England's "opposition becomes so strong" that Margaret and Townsend will have to wed abroad.
The "sudden, mysterious trip" to Scotland shows that the Queen might "drop the word very unofficially" that she would not object to Margaret's wedding taking place in the Church of Scotland, perhaps at Glamis Castle, where Margaret was born.
The Archbishop of Canterbury has apparently made it final that he will not allow Margaret to marry in the Church of England as Townsend is a divorced man whose former spouse is still alive.
The Church of Scotland does permit the innocent party in a divorce to remarry.
But the Church of England has "brought pressure" on the Church of Scotland, warning that "relations between the two will be imperiled" if the Scots church allows the marriage to take place.
Although the queen may be "unofficially sympathetic," she cannot be seen as giving her approval to the marriage. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are staying at Drumkilbo, the home of the Master of Elphinstone. Only two weeks ago, the royal couple returned to London after spending their summer vacation in Scotland.
The Queen "intends to let it be known at a discreet meeting" that a Church of Scotland wedding at Glamis is the "best solution. The Master of Elphinstone the brother of Mrs. John Lycett Willis, who hosted Princess Margaret's 'first week-end tryst" with Townsend two weeks ago.
Princess Margaret and Group Captain Townsend are spending this weekend at Uckfield. the 400-acre country estate belonging to Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla Nevill. They were seen earlier today "strolling hand in hand across a frost-covered meadow."
Former Prime Minister Winston Churchill is said to be a "secret ally" of the Princess. Earlier this week, his son-in-law, Christopher Soames, met with Townsend. "Informed sources" said Soames advised Townsend on "how to arrange the marriage," rather than try to dissuade him.
It has also been learned that members of the Royal Family are avoiding trying to "influence" Margaret's decision.
Princess Margaret has not yet asked her sister, the Queen, for permission to marry.
Queen Elizabeth II is in Scotland this week to "smooth the way" for Princess Margaret's wedding to Group Captain Peter Townsend, reports the Los Angeles Times. A wedding in the Presbyterian church is possible unless the Church of England's "opposition becomes so strong" that Margaret and Townsend will have to wed abroad.
The "sudden, mysterious trip" to Scotland shows that the Queen might "drop the word very unofficially" that she would not object to Margaret's wedding taking place in the Church of Scotland, perhaps at Glamis Castle, where Margaret was born.
The Archbishop of Canterbury has apparently made it final that he will not allow Margaret to marry in the Church of England as Townsend is a divorced man whose former spouse is still alive.
The Church of Scotland does permit the innocent party in a divorce to remarry.
But the Church of England has "brought pressure" on the Church of Scotland, warning that "relations between the two will be imperiled" if the Scots church allows the marriage to take place.
Although the queen may be "unofficially sympathetic," she cannot be seen as giving her approval to the marriage. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are staying at Drumkilbo, the home of the Master of Elphinstone. Only two weeks ago, the royal couple returned to London after spending their summer vacation in Scotland.
The Queen "intends to let it be known at a discreet meeting" that a Church of Scotland wedding at Glamis is the "best solution. The Master of Elphinstone the brother of Mrs. John Lycett Willis, who hosted Princess Margaret's 'first week-end tryst" with Townsend two weeks ago.
Princess Margaret and Group Captain Townsend are spending this weekend at Uckfield. the 400-acre country estate belonging to Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla Nevill. They were seen earlier today "strolling hand in hand across a frost-covered meadow."
Former Prime Minister Winston Churchill is said to be a "secret ally" of the Princess. Earlier this week, his son-in-law, Christopher Soames, met with Townsend. "Informed sources" said Soames advised Townsend on "how to arrange the marriage," rather than try to dissuade him.
It has also been learned that members of the Royal Family are avoiding trying to "influence" Margaret's decision.
Princess Margaret has not yet asked her sister, the Queen, for permission to marry.
A horse for Marie's 60th birthday
October 29, 1935
Queen Marie of Romania celebrated her 60th birthday today by "riding through new-fallen snow" at Sinaia on a thoroughbred horse, reports the Associated Press. The horse was a president from the Minister of Agriculture.
All the members of the Romanian royal family with the exception of the Dowager Queen's second daughter, the widowed Queen Mother Marie of Yugoslavia, gathered at Peles for the birthday celebrations.
The new horse will certainly please Marie, an expert horsewoman. She also received gifts of "gorgeous jewelry." There were "hundreds of telegrams of felicitation" from family and friends from all over the world. A "great number" of the telegrams were from Marie's American friends.
A "grand dinner" was hosted by Marie's elder son, King Carol II. The guest list included government officials, the Prince and Princess of Hohenzollern, and Marie's sister, Alexandra, the Princess of Hohenlohe-Langenburg.
Queen Marie's children, Archduchess Ileana of Austria and Prince Nicholas, who provided support in her "frequent efforts to influence King Carol" when crises erupt in the Balkans.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
How will the Romanian Government respond?
From the National Alliance for the Restoration of the Monarchy (ANRM)
Open letter addressed to the President of Romania, Mr. Klaus Johannis
His Excellency
Klaus Werner Johannis
President of Romania
Excellency,
For 68 years, the Romanians are suffering the effects of a deep moral crisis, caused by the violent imposition of Republic and Communism, against the national will. Having Communist roots, the Republic imposed by the Soviets is responsible for the hundreds of thousands victims of Communist repression, for the annihilation of public and intellectual elites, for the disfigurement of the country and for an entire dictatorial regime. The People’s Court, a creation of Communist republic convicted heroes that were living symbols of the conscience of this nation. Remembering Iuliu Maniu and Mircea Vulcănescu is enough for legitimizing a whole list of heroes that sacrificed themselves just because they loved and served the Fatherland and the King. With the approval of state institutions, the same People’s Court still convicts now what it used to convict in the past. The post-1989 republics, displaying only cosmetic face-lifts performed by the successors of the same Communist Securitate, are merely a continuing demonstration that the former regime did not truly ended.
Restoring our nation’s identity does not mean just changing a political regime with another, simply replacing one ruling party with another or implementing several economic reforms that would impose silence to some people and facilitate fraud to others. Awakening the nation to democratic life means the recovery of identity, honoring ancestors and those who have sacrificed themselves for our freedoms, respect and promotion of the real moral values, supporting the weakest of us, reinforcing institutions on other principles than clientelism and narrow politics, respect for law, government accountability, the recovery of national dignity and of those elements that really define us. Precisely because it reminded Romanians all of these values, King Michael’s speech in Parliament on October 25th, 2011 was a revelation for many. Such a discourse, clear and full of substance, leaned on daily realities but connected to the eternal values of the nation was never pronounced by any president of the Republic, Popular, Socialist or post-Decembrist. On the occasion of His Majesty’s speech, we directly experienced the evidence of what constitutes wise balance, a vision situated above the common political level, and institutional continuity. The Monarch means continuity and competence. He represents us as a nation.
Excellency,
The participants in the proceedings of the Third Congress of the National Alliance for the Restoration of the Monarchy (ANRM), representatives of the branches from the entire Romanian territory urgently ask you to transform the Parliament into a Constituent Assembly that will adopt a Monarchic Constitution and restore the Monarchy. This constitutes a top national priority for Romania, a country that was condemned, for nearly 70 years, to material and spiritual destruction of the values that the Good Lord has bestowed upon it.
After 68 years since His Majesty King Michael was by blackmailed to abdicate, forced to do this in order to save the lives of dozens of young anti-Communists threatened by death, after 68 years from the unlawful act that plunged Romania into the hell of Communist totalitarianism, after 68 years since the soul of the country was mutilated, we ask the President of Romania to determine the political class and the country’s institutions to offer Romania the gift that it deserves: the dignified image, the guarantee of balance and continuity, the identity treasure that equals a Constitutional Monarchy. The new Constitution should allow the Monarchy to serve Romania as it truly should and as we all deserve.
So help us God!
Bucharest, October 24, 2015
The letter is signed by 473 participants at the Third Congress of the National Alliance for the Restoration of the Monarchy (ANRM) – list of signatories remains open.
Here is a link to the association's website. Most of the material is in Romanian. http://www.anrm.ro/#
Here is a link to the association's website. Most of the material is in Romanian. http://www.anrm.ro/#
Spanish media reporting death of Princess Claude of France
Spanish newspapers, including El Mundo, are reporting the death of Princess Claude of Orléans, first wife of the Duke of Aosta. I have not seen anything confirmation from members of her family.
http://www.elmundo.es/loc/2015/10/28/5630bd9c46163f29348b45b4.html
I am attaching a caution to this report because the articles make no reference to death of her husband. Enrico Gandolfi, who died yesterday (October 27).
The death notice states that he is mourned by his wife, Claude. The funeral is tomorrow.
http://necrologi.corriere.it/defunti/enrico-gandolfi-00001?refresh_ce-cp
http://www.elmundo.es/loc/2015/10/28/5630bd9c46163f29348b45b4.html
I am attaching a caution to this report because the articles make no reference to death of her husband. Enrico Gandolfi, who died yesterday (October 27).
The death notice states that he is mourned by his wife, Claude. The funeral is tomorrow.
http://necrologi.corriere.it/defunti/enrico-gandolfi-00001?refresh_ce-cp
Margaret flees London for Sussex
October 28, 1955
Group Captain Peter Townsend left London tonight for a "week-end in the country". He as the guest of Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla Nevill, at their home, Uckfield House, in Sussex.
Princess Margaret is also believed to be staying with the Nevills. She left Clarence House in London, where she lives with her mother, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, this afternoon. A crowd of about 300 people were waiting outside the entrance, hoping for a glimpse of the princess. However, her "limousine swept out of another entrance," before the crowd realized she was gone, reported the New York Times.
Reporters noticed that her detective was "seen standing outside the gates" of Uckfield House, the country estate of Lord Rupert, who is the younger brother of the Marquess of Abergavenny.
Group Captain Townsend has been staying at Lord Abergavenny's London home. Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla, daughter of the 9th Earl of Portsmouth, are close friends of the royal family.
The Chicago Tribune is reporting that before heading to Sussex, Princess Margaret visited her sister, Queen Elizabeth II, at Buckingham Palace. This visit may be an "indication that her marriage plans were going forward." Yesterday, the Princess met with the Archbishop of Canterbury. Members of Parliament are expecting an engagement announcement "by the middle of next week."
Queen Elizabeth also met with the Privy Council before she and the Duke of Edinburgh left for Scotland by train.
Group Captain Peter Townsend left London tonight for a "week-end in the country". He as the guest of Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla Nevill, at their home, Uckfield House, in Sussex.
Princess Margaret is also believed to be staying with the Nevills. She left Clarence House in London, where she lives with her mother, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, this afternoon. A crowd of about 300 people were waiting outside the entrance, hoping for a glimpse of the princess. However, her "limousine swept out of another entrance," before the crowd realized she was gone, reported the New York Times.
Reporters noticed that her detective was "seen standing outside the gates" of Uckfield House, the country estate of Lord Rupert, who is the younger brother of the Marquess of Abergavenny.
Group Captain Townsend has been staying at Lord Abergavenny's London home. Lord Rupert and Lady Camilla, daughter of the 9th Earl of Portsmouth, are close friends of the royal family.
The Chicago Tribune is reporting that before heading to Sussex, Princess Margaret visited her sister, Queen Elizabeth II, at Buckingham Palace. This visit may be an "indication that her marriage plans were going forward." Yesterday, the Princess met with the Archbishop of Canterbury. Members of Parliament are expecting an engagement announcement "by the middle of next week."
Queen Elizabeth also met with the Privy Council before she and the Duke of Edinburgh left for Scotland by train.
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Harper & Sienna: kitty love
Harper has been living with us since early August, less than a month after Edison went to kitty heaven. I knew Sienna would accept a new little brother. Her half-hearted hissing stopped after less than two weeks. Now, 2.5 months later, Sienna adores Harper.
Margaret meets with Archbishop
October 27, 1955
Princess Margaret and Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, Archbishop of Canterbury, met earlier today for a "private audience." The meeting lasted for an hour, reports the New York Times.
The Archbishop's chaplain responded to questions from the press, stating: "I cannot give any information about it." Buckingham Palace officials issued a statement saying there would be "no comment whatsoever" on the implications of Princess Margaret's meeting with the Archbishop.
It is understood that Margaret, 25, visited Lambeth Palace "at her own request" to seek the Archbishop's guidance on whether to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend, who is divorced.
The princess's "religious leanings have intensified" since the death of her father, King George VI, in 1952. She has known Dr. Fisher for many years. She and other members of the Royal Family dined with the Archbishop last week at Lambeth Palace and again "last night at the Portuguese Embassy."
This most recent meeting with the Archbishop does not mean that Princess Margaret has come to a decision. This was her first "formal request for advice" from the spiritual head of the Church of England.
Group Captain Townsend, 40, visited Princess Margaret at Clarence House before lunch. He called on her again after her return from Lambeth Palace at 4:00 p.m., and stayed for two hours.
The Church of England forbids the remarriage of divorced persons if their former spouse is still alive. Group Captain Townsend divorced his former wife, Rosemary, in 1952 on the grounds of her adultery with John de Laszlo, whom she has since married.
The Church Times, an official publication of the Church of England, has asked "the faithful people of the church to pray for especial urgency at this time, for the Queen and for the whole Royal Family," and that Princess Margaret "may be guided and directed aright."
Tomorrow's Daily Mirror will have have a "front page attack" on the editor of The Times for its recent editorial suggesting that Princess Margaret "pass into private life" if she chooses to marry Townsend. The Mirror will describe the editorial as the "first sinister move" in a plan that could force the princess to give up Townsend or "be banished from the royal circle."
Princess Margaret and Dr. Geoffrey Fisher, Archbishop of Canterbury, met earlier today for a "private audience." The meeting lasted for an hour, reports the New York Times.
The Archbishop's chaplain responded to questions from the press, stating: "I cannot give any information about it." Buckingham Palace officials issued a statement saying there would be "no comment whatsoever" on the implications of Princess Margaret's meeting with the Archbishop.
It is understood that Margaret, 25, visited Lambeth Palace "at her own request" to seek the Archbishop's guidance on whether to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend, who is divorced.
The princess's "religious leanings have intensified" since the death of her father, King George VI, in 1952. She has known Dr. Fisher for many years. She and other members of the Royal Family dined with the Archbishop last week at Lambeth Palace and again "last night at the Portuguese Embassy."
This most recent meeting with the Archbishop does not mean that Princess Margaret has come to a decision. This was her first "formal request for advice" from the spiritual head of the Church of England.
Group Captain Townsend, 40, visited Princess Margaret at Clarence House before lunch. He called on her again after her return from Lambeth Palace at 4:00 p.m., and stayed for two hours.
The Church of England forbids the remarriage of divorced persons if their former spouse is still alive. Group Captain Townsend divorced his former wife, Rosemary, in 1952 on the grounds of her adultery with John de Laszlo, whom she has since married.
The Church Times, an official publication of the Church of England, has asked "the faithful people of the church to pray for especial urgency at this time, for the Queen and for the whole Royal Family," and that Princess Margaret "may be guided and directed aright."
Tomorrow's Daily Mirror will have have a "front page attack" on the editor of The Times for its recent editorial suggesting that Princess Margaret "pass into private life" if she chooses to marry Townsend. The Mirror will describe the editorial as the "first sinister move" in a plan that could force the princess to give up Townsend or "be banished from the royal circle."
Monday, October 26, 2015
More calls for renouncement for Margaret
October 26, 1955
Another religious leader today "added his voice" to the suggestion that Princess Margaret renounce her right to the throne if she marries Group Captain Peter Townsend.
The Rev. Dr. Leslie Weatherhead, president of the Methodist Conference, said that if Margaret renounced her right of succession, she would then "be free to enjoy married happiness" with Townsend, who is divorced.
Princess Margaret is third in line to the throne after Queen Elizabeth II's two children, the Duke of Cornwall and Princess Anne.
The Times made a "similar suggestion" yesterday, which "evoked an immediate rejoinder" from Lord Beaverbrook's Evening Standard.
This London newspaper said Princess Margaret deserves the respect of the nation "as she attempts to five the question of her marriage the full consideration it requires and demands."
Princess Margaret carried out a "round of royal engagements" today, including opening a school for 500 "invalid boys," in Seaford, Sussex.
Another religious leader today "added his voice" to the suggestion that Princess Margaret renounce her right to the throne if she marries Group Captain Peter Townsend.
The Rev. Dr. Leslie Weatherhead, president of the Methodist Conference, said that if Margaret renounced her right of succession, she would then "be free to enjoy married happiness" with Townsend, who is divorced.
Princess Margaret is third in line to the throne after Queen Elizabeth II's two children, the Duke of Cornwall and Princess Anne.
The Times made a "similar suggestion" yesterday, which "evoked an immediate rejoinder" from Lord Beaverbrook's Evening Standard.
This London newspaper said Princess Margaret deserves the respect of the nation "as she attempts to five the question of her marriage the full consideration it requires and demands."
Princess Margaret carried out a "round of royal engagements" today, including opening a school for 500 "invalid boys," in Seaford, Sussex.
Covadonga hosts lunch for his newly married brother
October 26, 1935
Infante Don Juan of Spain and his new wife, Princess Maria de las Mercedes of Bourbon-Two-Sicilies, were the "guests of honor" at a lunch today hosted by the Infante's eldest brother, Alfonso, Count of Covadonga, reports the New York Times.
The luncheon was held at Fornos, a Spanish restaurant at 236 West 52nd Street in New York City,.
Infante Juan, 21, and his bride arrived in New York City severdal days ago on the Bremen for a "world-tour wedding trip." Their "greatest thrill" was a visit to the Empire State Building's observation tower.
The Count of Covadonga's wife, Edelmira, whom he married in 1933, was also at lunch, as were several Spanish journalists.
Infante Don Juan of Spain and his new wife, Princess Maria de las Mercedes of Bourbon-Two-Sicilies, were the "guests of honor" at a lunch today hosted by the Infante's eldest brother, Alfonso, Count of Covadonga, reports the New York Times.
The luncheon was held at Fornos, a Spanish restaurant at 236 West 52nd Street in New York City,.
Infante Juan, 21, and his bride arrived in New York City severdal days ago on the Bremen for a "world-tour wedding trip." Their "greatest thrill" was a visit to the Empire State Building's observation tower.
The Count of Covadonga's wife, Edelmira, whom he married in 1933, was also at lunch, as were several Spanish journalists.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Times calls for Margaret to make sacrifice
October 25, 1955
The Times of London published an editorial tonight suggesting that Princess Margaret should "pass into private life," if she chooses to marry Group Captain Peter Townsend, reports the New York Times.
The Times is considered the "unofficial voice of the British government.
In a "leading editorial," the newspaper states that Princess Margaret, the 25-year-old younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, "has an indubitable right to lay down a burden that is too heavy for her," if she decides that "she is unable to make the sacrifice involved in her continued dedication to her inherited part."
This was the first time that the Times had weighed, editorially, on the issue of Princess Margaret's romance, which began in 1953.
Since he returned home on "temporary leave" on October 12, Townsend has visited Margaret at Clarence House or dined with her and mutual friends for "almost each day." Today, the couple spent about two hours together at Clarence House.
Queen Elizabeth II is "bound by her coronation oath to uphold church laws." The Church of England does not allow for the remarriage of divorced persons if the spouse is still alive. Townsend divorced his wife in 1952, on the grounds of her adultery, and she has since remarried.
This editorial may prove to be "an added impediment" to the Princess' plans to marry. According to her "intimate friends," she wants to marry the Group Captain if there is "not too strong an opposition" to her desire.
The Times noted that the Princess could marry outside the Church of England. She and Townsend could wed in a Church of Scotland, which does not bar divorce.
Friday, October 23, 2015
Margaret goes to Windsor Castle
October 23, 1955
Princess Margaret and Group Captain Peter Townsend did not see each other today, reports the New York Times. This was only the second time in the last eleven days that they have not met.
Princess Margaret is staying at Windsor Castle with her sister, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. This morning, they attended services at the Royal Chapel at Windsor Great Park. But she did not leave the castle for the rest of the day.
Group Captain Townsend has remained in London.
The "public discussion of the romance between the Princess and the commoner" continues. Most people think that she should be allowed to marry "anyone she chooses."
Queen Elizabeth is said to be sympathetic with Princess Margaret, but is "believed to be cautioning her to have second thoughts: about marriage Townsend, a divorced commoner. The Duke of Edinburgh is said to be "firmly opposed" to the marriage.
An Episcopalian rector in Edinburgh told his congregation today that a marriage between Princess Margaret and Group Captain Townsend would be an "illicit union."
The Rev. Douglas Lockhart, rector of St Paul's Episcopal Church of Scotland, said: "in this matter, not even a princess can have her cake and eat it." He "declared that the no Anglican priest could officiate at the ceremony, and to suggest that Margaret's wedding could take place in a Presbyterian church in Scotland was adding to the "sin of apostasy to violation of Christ's marriage law."
"But no official announcement has been made, and there is still room for hope that no such illicit union is contemplated. Or, if contemplated it may be courageously abandoned.
":It is the hard lot of royalty that the highest standards are imposed on them and the best example to others expected of them." He said the couple could not marry as Townsend is still married to another woman.
"The fact that his previous marriage ended in divorce does not alter the position."
Princess Margaret and Group Captain Peter Townsend did not see each other today, reports the New York Times. This was only the second time in the last eleven days that they have not met.
Princess Margaret is staying at Windsor Castle with her sister, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. This morning, they attended services at the Royal Chapel at Windsor Great Park. But she did not leave the castle for the rest of the day.
Group Captain Townsend has remained in London.
The "public discussion of the romance between the Princess and the commoner" continues. Most people think that she should be allowed to marry "anyone she chooses."
Queen Elizabeth is said to be sympathetic with Princess Margaret, but is "believed to be cautioning her to have second thoughts: about marriage Townsend, a divorced commoner. The Duke of Edinburgh is said to be "firmly opposed" to the marriage.
An Episcopalian rector in Edinburgh told his congregation today that a marriage between Princess Margaret and Group Captain Townsend would be an "illicit union."
The Rev. Douglas Lockhart, rector of St Paul's Episcopal Church of Scotland, said: "in this matter, not even a princess can have her cake and eat it." He "declared that the no Anglican priest could officiate at the ceremony, and to suggest that Margaret's wedding could take place in a Presbyterian church in Scotland was adding to the "sin of apostasy to violation of Christ's marriage law."
"But no official announcement has been made, and there is still room for hope that no such illicit union is contemplated. Or, if contemplated it may be courageously abandoned.
":It is the hard lot of royalty that the highest standards are imposed on them and the best example to others expected of them." He said the couple could not marry as Townsend is still married to another woman.
"The fact that his previous marriage ended in divorce does not alter the position."
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Raving Grania O'Malley on the loose ... again -
[To get caught up, type Grania in the search box, and you will find my postings going back to 2009 when I outed Grania.]
The woman is mentally ill, yet she is able to waste British taxpayers' money with her many court filings, trying to claim money from Lady Iris's marriage settlement from her first marriage. Memo to Grania: there is no money. Lady Iris died in near poverty.
Lady Iris (1917-1982) was the only child of Alexander, Marquess of Carisbrooke, and Lady Irene Denison. Alexander, who was born Prince Alexander of Battenberg, was the eldest son of Princess Beatrice, the youngest child of Queen Victoria, and Prince Henry of Battenberg. [Alexander was gay, and had a long-time lover, Simon Fleet.]
Lady Iris blotted her copybook with her first marriage to Hamilton, a Roman Catholic, who was an abusive husband. The couple separated not long after the marriage, and Lady Iris had an affair with a black musician -- scandalous in the 1940s. Her behavior led to an estrangement with her family. She was not even permitted to attend her paternal grandmother's funeral. She and Hamilton were divorced in the summer of 1946. Lady Iris traveled to the United States, was not successful in finding work, had money issues, and moved to Canada, where she lived for the rest of her life.
She married two more times. In 1957, she married an American jazz musician, Michael Neely Bryan. The marriage lasted only a few months. Bryan is the father of her only child, her son, Robin Alexander Bryan. In 1963, she married a Canadian, William Alexander Kemp. This marriage, too, failed. The couple separated but they never divorced.
In January 1947, Hamilton married for a second time. His second wife, Eleanor de Pentheny O'Kelly, known as Sadie, gave birth to five children, four sons and one daughter, Grania Mary, who was born in France on July 31, 1950.
According to family members, Hamilton was not the best of fathers. Suffice to say, Grania and her siblings did not have the best upbringing. This marriage ended in divorce, as well, and Hamilton married a third time. He did not have any children by his first or third marriages. [The book Leopard on a Razer Wire offers a non-too-flattering portrait of 'Hammie' O'Malley.]
At some point, Grania, who has at least three sons by three men (no husbands), snapped, and she chose to morph into someone who did not exist. This has been going on for more than 20 years. Robin Bryan is understandably distraught by the lunacy of Grania O'Malley.
How can she not be charged with fraud? She has been able to obtain a British passport and other documents with this fake name and incorrect date of birth. She has made herself four years older, by claiming she was born on July 31, 1946.
Grania cannot produce a legitimate birth certificate that states she was born in 1946 with Lady Iris and Hamilton as her parents. The birth certificate for Grania Mary O'Malley is available. I have a copy of the official birth registration.
Siblings, a nephew, cousins, a lawyer, and others have all stated that she is Grania Mary O'Malley.
I know she has received public assistance, but, by altering her birth year to 1946, has she connived to collect senior benefits in the United Kingdom for four years before she was legally entitled to these benefits. This is something that local officials should investigate.
Until earlier today, I had not heard a peep out Grania O'Malley. Someone told me that Wikipedia had removed her entry due to the proof that she is not the daughter of Lady Iris. I received the following in my Other message file on Facebook. I can only assume that she thinks I was behind her discomfiture. This would be an incorrect assumption as I have an aversion to Wikipedia.
Let's see your facts about me being a part-time nurse in Canada in 1982. Waiting. ........
Siblings, a nephew, cousins, a lawyer, and others have all stated that she is Grania Mary O'Malley.
I know she has received public assistance, but, by altering her birth year to 1946, has she connived to collect senior benefits in the United Kingdom for four years before she was legally entitled to these benefits. This is something that local officials should investigate.
Until earlier today, I had not heard a peep out Grania O'Malley. Someone told me that Wikipedia had removed her entry due to the proof that she is not the daughter of Lady Iris. I received the following in my Other message file on Facebook. I can only assume that she thinks I was behind her discomfiture. This would be an incorrect assumption as I have an aversion to Wikipedia.
"still on my case marlene, you really are obsessed. get help. you are very sick women.
you have mistaken me for someone else. you have no right to harrass me or any person to be some other person they are not. I was actually born as Grace Mountbatten born in 1946. My mother named me Grace, my father called me Grania (both names mean the same)
i do not know what you want from me. any person obsessed over me as much as you is sick and should locked up in prison or an institution, - brought to justice. you do not have a right to disturb and hurt people. their lives do not belong to you and no one owes you a living, you owe it to yourself. do not disturb me or my children again, do you understand.
accordingly to my research, you worked part time as a nurse for my mother iris, you stole money and photos and other belongings from her, abused her verbally and physically. i would not be surprised if you had enhanced or conspired in her death. she was only 62. I can find you and bring you to justice.
cyberbullying may not be illegal, but it can be considered a criminal offence under legislation such as the Protection from Harassment Act and the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act."
Reading her twisted words, I am reminded of the song, "She's a Nut" from the Broadway musical, On the Twentieth Century.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xIPaI2ZLJA
I realized a long time ago that Grania O'Malley is not very good at research. I have real cause for a libel suit against this woman by virtue of her claims that I worked part-time as a nurse for her mother, that I stole money, verbally abused her, and may have conspired to kill her. Grania: please present your evidence that in 1982 I was a part-time nurse in Toronto, Canada and that I stole from Lady Iris and was responsible for her death.
I visited Lady Iris twice in the early 1980s (and have the photos to prove it.) I can also prove that I have never worked in Canada, and I have never been a nurse. (I may need to nurse a few drinks after completing this article).
I have proved who you are and who you are not. By the way, Grania, Lady Mountbatten was made aware of your duplicitous statements.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xIPaI2ZLJA
I realized a long time ago that Grania O'Malley is not very good at research. I have real cause for a libel suit against this woman by virtue of her claims that I worked part-time as a nurse for her mother, that I stole money, verbally abused her, and may have conspired to kill her. Grania: please present your evidence that in 1982 I was a part-time nurse in Toronto, Canada and that I stole from Lady Iris and was responsible for her death.
I visited Lady Iris twice in the early 1980s (and have the photos to prove it.) I can also prove that I have never worked in Canada, and I have never been a nurse. (I may need to nurse a few drinks after completing this article).
I have proved who you are and who you are not. By the way, Grania, Lady Mountbatten was made aware of your duplicitous statements.
Let's see your facts about me being a part-time nurse in Canada in 1982. Waiting. ........
Mass for the Feast Day of Blessed Karl of the House of Austria
The nearly 2-hour mass in Latin took place at the St Mary, Mother of God Church in Washington, D.C. A reception at Market to Market cafe took place following the service.
The guest of honor was HI & RH Princess Maria Anna Galitzine, Archduchess of Austria, eldest child of the late Archduke Rudolf of Austria, sixth child of the late Emperor Karl of Austria and his wife, Princess Zita of Bourbon-Parma.
The service included representatives from the Johanniter Order (Protestant), the Society of King Charles the Martyr, the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of St. George, Order of the Saint Maurice and Saint Lazarus, and a several others.
Thank you to Julius D. Jackson, Knight of the Holy Sepulchre for inviting me to this service.
Father Richard Mullins gave the Sermon (Homily), which was in English. He spoke about the late Emperor's life and his faith. Archduke Karl married Princess Zita of Bourbon-Parma on October 21, 1913, After the ceremony, he said to his wife : "we must help each other to go to heaven. Karl and Zita were devout Catholics, devoted to their faith, creating a strong marriage and raising eight children. Father Mullins also spoke about the need to support traditional family and marriage, and the "rights of the unborn."
These themes were also highlighted during the speeches and testimonies at the reception.
The service ended with members of the congregation coming to the altar to kiss the relic.
There were also prayers for the canonization of Emperor Karl, who was beatified by the Roman Catholic church in 2004, and is now known as Blessed Karl of Austria.
Princess Maria Anna, who lives in Texas with her husband, Prince Peter Galitzine, gave a moving speech about her family, learning about her grandfather from her grandmother, Empress Zita, and how faith is important to her. She spoke from the heart, about her beliefs of traditional marriage and abortion.
These websites provide more information on Emperor Karl and the movement toward canonization by the Roman Catholic church.
http://www.gebetsliga.com/english/
http://emperorcharles.org/English/leagueofprayer_english.shtml
A bit disappointed in my photos. I did not use a flash for some of the church photos. I did not bring my big flash, as this was a mass, and I wanted my camera to be discreet. I am the copyright holder, so if you want to use the photo, please ask. A complete set of the photos will be provided to the organizers of this event, for inviting me and allowing me to take photographs.
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| Princess Maria Galitzine and Julius D. Jackson |
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Princess Margaret plans to marry Townsend
October 21, 1955
Princess Margaret is planning to go "forward now with marrying" Group Captain Peter Townsend, a divorced airman with two young sons, according to friends.
The New York Times reports that she will marry Townsend unless she there is strong opposition to her plan.
She is "sounding out" political and church leaders on the possibility of marrying the Group Captain.
Most of the Royal Family is said to be opposed to the marriage, as are the Archbishop of Canterbury and other church officials.
The church stands by its ban on the remarriage of divorced persons. Private views of Government and Commonwealth leaders vary, as some favor the marriage and others are "undecided."
The Princess is weighing the situation in conversation with Townsend, but she has not arrived at any decision. The decision will be "hers alone" to make.
Princess Margaret and Group Captain Townsend joined a small circle of friends for dinner tonight. The Princess drove alone from Clarence House and arrived at 4 St. Leonard's Terrace shortly before 7 p.m. Townsend arrived shortly afterwards.
Punch editor Malcolm Muggeridge, writing in the New Statesman, has described the "growing sensationalism" about Princess Margaret as a "royal soap opera."
He suggested that the Royal Family has developed a "taste for the publicity which, in theory, they find so repugnant."
"The whole show is utterly out of hand," he warned.
Muggeridge added: "The simple fact is that the United States Presidency is a far more dignified institution than the British monarchy."
The Evening Standard offered a rebuttal to Muggeridge's comments: "Mr. Muggeridge may sneer as much as he likes, but the position of the Throne has never been less open to challenge."
