Discours de la Reine Victoria

Queen Victoria's speech, December 1899

My dear friends, it is a rare privilege to be surrounded by pioneers.

I am here today to thank you – to thank you for achieving so much in such a short time. To thank you for saving us countless times from threats beyond imagination.

When I founded the Torchwood Institute, 20 short years ago, it was with the single hope that you would protect us from attacks originating beyond this world.

We stand here – at the proudest time for the British Empire. But pride is not achieved without enemies, without envy. It was the sad realisation of those extraordinary threats that led to the establishment of Torchwood.

But you were swift to realise that such attacks also provided opportunities – brave leaps of science, arming ourselves with the weapons of our enemies.

Every menace has brought with it great leaps of learning. When I toured the Great Exhibition I was humbled at the sheer might of human endeavour of display. But all of that noble labour and artifice were nothing when compared to the wonders I have seen today.

I leave this unparalleled wealth of knowledge in trust to you, for the good of the empire. A new century is dawning. Guard it well.

Today, as well as offering you my gratitude, I shall also bid you farewell. One prepares to go on the greatest journey, proud of what has been achieved in one’s name. And I am proudest of nothing more than your work.

God bless you.

 

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