Saturday 30 October 1915 – The King’s appeal to the Nation

THE KING’S APPEAL TO THE NATION

The King has addressed the following message to the people, calling for an increased effort to ensure victory and an “enduring peace”.

Buckingham Palace

To My People

At this grave moment in the struggle between my people and a highly-organised enemy, who has transgressed the Laws of Nations, and has changed the ordinance that binds civilised Europe together, I appeal to you.

I rejoice in my Empire’s effort, and I feel a pride in the voluntary response from my Subjects all over the world, who have sacrificed home, fortune, and life itself, in order that another may not inherit the free Empire which their ancestors and mine built.

I ask you to make good these sacrifices.

The end is not in sight. More men and yet more men are wanted to keep my Armies in Field and though them to secure Victory and enduring Peace.

In ancient days the darkest moment has ever produced in men of our race the sternest resolve.

I ask you, men of all classes,-to come forward voluntarily and take your share in the fight.

In freely responding to my appeal, you will be giving your support to our brothers, who, for long months, have nobly upheld Britain’s past traditions of  the glory of her Arms.

George R