Why all this pomp and glory in this spring-,
The sound of bugles, and the pageantry?
Another star is in the ascendancy:
England today, crowns yet another king.
Called by a trembling nation to a throne,
A hollow note is sounded in the air.
Some sigh that one beloved is not there.
But Britain, as of old, still holds her own.
O stern tradition, let your guiding hand
Still rule the knotty problems that may be.
O undefeated Mistress of the sea
Ever victorious, keep firm you stand.
May this your reign, O George’s son be long
In peace and plenty, and triumphant song.
– May 12, 1937