<![CDATA[Commonwealth Forums - All Forums]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/ Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:38:46 -0700 MyBB <![CDATA[Royal Trash]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5800 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 20:45:55 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5800
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6FU0cgg9...re=related

Also amusing...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zqv_eHszK...re=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLXhg8lLM...re=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXrbw4y9BYc]]>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6FU0cgg9...re=related

Also amusing...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zqv_eHszK...re=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLXhg8lLM...re=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXrbw4y9BYc]]> <![CDATA[The Anacreontic Song]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5799 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 20:47:46 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5799 ANACREONTIC SONG

as Sung at the Crown and Anchor Tavern in the Strand

the Words by
RALPH TOMLINSON ESQ R, late President of that SOCIETY.

————————Price 6d.————————

LONDON
Printed by Longman and Broderip. N o26, Cheapside and N o13, Hay Market



1
To ANACREON in Heav'n, where he sat in full Glee,
A few Sons of Harmony sent a Petition,
That He their Inspirer and Patron wou'd be;
When this Answer arriv'd from the JOLLY OLD GRECIAN
"Voice, Fiddle, and Flute,
"No longer be mute,
"I'll lend you my Name and inspire you to boot,
"And, besides, I'll instruct you like me, to intwine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS's Vine.

2
The news through OLYMPUS immediately flew;
When OLD THUNDER pretended to give himself Airs_
If these Mortals are suffer'd their Scheme to pursue,
The Devil a Goddess will stay above Stairs.
"Hark! already they cry,
"In Transports of Joy
"Away to the Sons of ANACREON we'll fly,
"And there, with good Fellows, we'll learn to intwine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

3
"The YELLOW-HAIR'D GOD and his nine fusty Maids
"From HELICON'S Banks will incontinent flee,
"IDALIA will boast but of tenantless Shades,
"And the bi-forked Hill a mere Desart will be
"My Thunder, no fear on't,
"Shall soon do it's Errand,
"And, dam'me! I'll swinge the Ringleaders I warrant,
"I'll trim the young Dogs, for thus daring to twine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

4
APOLLO rose up; and said, "Pr'ythee ne'er quarrel,
"Good King of the Gods with my Vot'ries below:
"Your Thunder is useless_then, shewing his Laurel,
Cry'd. "Sic evitabile fulmen, you know!
"Then over each Head
"My Laurels I'll spread
"So my Sons from your Crackers no Mischief shall dread,
"Whilst snug in their Club-Room, they Jovially twine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

5
Next MOMUS got up, with his risible Phiz,
And swore with APOLLO he'd cheerfull join_
"The full Tide of Harmony still shall be his,
"But the Song, and the Catch, & the Laugh shall bemine
"Then, JOVE, be not jealous
Of these honest Fellows,
Cry'd JOVE, "We relent, since the Truth you now tell us;
"And swear, by OLD STYX, that they long shall entwine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

6
Ye Sons of ANACREON, then, join Hand in Hand;
Preserve Unanimity, Friendship, and Love!
'Tis your's to support what's so happily plann'd;
You've the Sanction of Gods, and the FIAT of JOVE.
While thus we agree
Our Toast let it be.
May our Club flourish happy, united and free!
And long may the Sons of ANACREON intwine
The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
sic evitabile fulmen roughly translates to "this repels thunderbolts" (It was a common
Roman belief that laurel provided protection from lightning.)
fusty = close or stuffy, old-fashioned, of stale wine
phiz = facial expression
risible = pertaining to laughter
swinge = beat, flog, or chastise

The Anacreontic Song was written for the Anacreontic Society. This London
gentlemen's club was named after the Greek poet Anacreon (c. 570-485 BC),
who was known for his poems on love and wine. The words are credited to
Ralph Tomlinson (1744-1778), and the tune is commonly attributed to John
Stafford Smith (1750-1836).]]> ANACREONTIC SONG

as Sung at the Crown and Anchor Tavern in the Strand

the Words by
RALPH TOMLINSON ESQ R, late President of that SOCIETY.

————————Price 6d.————————

LONDON
Printed by Longman and Broderip. N o26, Cheapside and N o13, Hay Market



1
To ANACREON in Heav'n, where he sat in full Glee,
A few Sons of Harmony sent a Petition,
That He their Inspirer and Patron wou'd be;
When this Answer arriv'd from the JOLLY OLD GRECIAN
"Voice, Fiddle, and Flute,
"No longer be mute,
"I'll lend you my Name and inspire you to boot,
"And, besides, I'll instruct you like me, to intwine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS's Vine.

2
The news through OLYMPUS immediately flew;
When OLD THUNDER pretended to give himself Airs_
If these Mortals are suffer'd their Scheme to pursue,
The Devil a Goddess will stay above Stairs.
"Hark! already they cry,
"In Transports of Joy
"Away to the Sons of ANACREON we'll fly,
"And there, with good Fellows, we'll learn to intwine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

3
"The YELLOW-HAIR'D GOD and his nine fusty Maids
"From HELICON'S Banks will incontinent flee,
"IDALIA will boast but of tenantless Shades,
"And the bi-forked Hill a mere Desart will be
"My Thunder, no fear on't,
"Shall soon do it's Errand,
"And, dam'me! I'll swinge the Ringleaders I warrant,
"I'll trim the young Dogs, for thus daring to twine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

4
APOLLO rose up; and said, "Pr'ythee ne'er quarrel,
"Good King of the Gods with my Vot'ries below:
"Your Thunder is useless_then, shewing his Laurel,
Cry'd. "Sic evitabile fulmen, you know!
"Then over each Head
"My Laurels I'll spread
"So my Sons from your Crackers no Mischief shall dread,
"Whilst snug in their Club-Room, they Jovially twine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

5
Next MOMUS got up, with his risible Phiz,
And swore with APOLLO he'd cheerfull join_
"The full Tide of Harmony still shall be his,
"But the Song, and the Catch, & the Laugh shall bemine
"Then, JOVE, be not jealous
Of these honest Fellows,
Cry'd JOVE, "We relent, since the Truth you now tell us;
"And swear, by OLD STYX, that they long shall entwine
"The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.

6
Ye Sons of ANACREON, then, join Hand in Hand;
Preserve Unanimity, Friendship, and Love!
'Tis your's to support what's so happily plann'd;
You've the Sanction of Gods, and the FIAT of JOVE.
While thus we agree
Our Toast let it be.
May our Club flourish happy, united and free!
And long may the Sons of ANACREON intwine
The Myrtle of VENUS with BACCHUS'S Vine.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
sic evitabile fulmen roughly translates to "this repels thunderbolts" (It was a common
Roman belief that laurel provided protection from lightning.)
fusty = close or stuffy, old-fashioned, of stale wine
phiz = facial expression
risible = pertaining to laughter
swinge = beat, flog, or chastise

The Anacreontic Song was written for the Anacreontic Society. This London
gentlemen's club was named after the Greek poet Anacreon (c. 570-485 BC),
who was known for his poems on love and wine. The words are credited to
Ralph Tomlinson (1744-1778), and the tune is commonly attributed to John
Stafford Smith (1750-1836).]]> <![CDATA[Haitian Presidential Palace]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5798 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:56:16 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5798
The National or Presidential Palace, built in 1918, was, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful presidential residences in the Western Hemisphere. I first became aware of the mansion during the events leading up to the overthrow of Baby Doc Duvalier.

The palace was the scene of all the protests broadcast on the nightly news, and I was more fascinated by the fact that the President of Haiti had a grander home than the President of the United States than I was by the historic events taking place. The famous gleaming white mansion, looking somewhat like the love child of the White House and the Louvre, was completely destroyed by the earthquake. The images of its ruin sickened me.

As much as I mourn the loss of human life that has occurred in Haiti, I also sincerely lament the loss of this iconic architectural gem. I hope that it will be rebuilt but I sadly suspect that it may not be.

Here's an image of the palace in her former splendour:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1054/1106...b5.jpg?v=0

And the sad image of the devastating effects of the earthquake:

http://www.thaindian.com/images/Haiti-Pr...-quake.jpg]]>
The National or Presidential Palace, built in 1918, was, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful presidential residences in the Western Hemisphere. I first became aware of the mansion during the events leading up to the overthrow of Baby Doc Duvalier.

The palace was the scene of all the protests broadcast on the nightly news, and I was more fascinated by the fact that the President of Haiti had a grander home than the President of the United States than I was by the historic events taking place. The famous gleaming white mansion, looking somewhat like the love child of the White House and the Louvre, was completely destroyed by the earthquake. The images of its ruin sickened me.

As much as I mourn the loss of human life that has occurred in Haiti, I also sincerely lament the loss of this iconic architectural gem. I hope that it will be rebuilt but I sadly suspect that it may not be.

Here's an image of the palace in her former splendour:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1054/1106...b5.jpg?v=0

And the sad image of the devastating effects of the earthquake:

http://www.thaindian.com/images/Haiti-Pr...-quake.jpg]]> <![CDATA[Transition: Varennes]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5797 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 18:19:01 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5797
As many of you are aware, the Kingdom of Varennes has been in the process of transitioning away from her original French ancien regime culture to one more compatible with modernity and with her senior sister in commonwealth, the Kingdom of Hanover.

In 2006, Varennes was formally united in a sisterhood of commonwealth with the Kingdom of Hanover when I, then king of Varennes, entered into a formal treaty with King Alexander, abdicating immediately thereafter in his favour. At that moment, the Crowns of Hanover and Varennes became inextricably linked, and I was appointed Governor General of Varennes, to represent the King in Right of Varennes.

Following those actions, the Constitutional Charter of 2006 was enacted via Royal Proclamation, thereby continuing the transition of the Varennaise nation. Varennes' absolutist regime came to an end at that moment, and Westminster-style Parliamentary democracy found yet another home in this world.

Although I tendered my resignation as Governor General during the reign of King Alexander, I was, last Summer, reappointed to that post by His Majesty the King. Because the forums of the Kingdom of Varennes no longer exist, there was no means by which to post and gazette the letters patent appointing me to that office.

I would like to formally request, therefore, at this time, that a single forum be opened for the purposes of posting official documents pertaining to the next stage of the Varennaise transition.

As the only remaining active Varennois are His Majesty the King and myself, and as the current Constitution prevents us from continuing the transitional process without an Act of Parliament, His Majesty and I have deemed that the Constitutional process shall be subverted out of necessity, so that the transition can be completed.

Needless to say, it would be the more desirable to summon a Parliament to preside over this task. Yet with only the King and one subject left, to do so would be utterly impossible. Yet it is necessary to complete this transition in order that this community, as a whole, might, as we have agreed, be made to "make sense".

It is in the spirit of following our current instincts regarding the future of this community that His Majesty and I have come to this decision.

Therefore, as we mean to make of Hanover a purified thing that can have appeal to a demographic which is, in character and affinity, both anglophile and committed to the replication of Westminster-style government, so we wish to make of Varennes a more compatible partner in community, with a culture that compliments that of a renewed Hanover.

Our dear friends in the Empire of the Alexandrians have, over the past several years, successfully cornered the market, so to speak, on anglophone francophile culture with respect to this sort of a community. We have determined that they are the nation to best project that culture, and we no longer wish to encroach upon what has undeniably become their 'turf'.

We have determined, therefore, that as Hanover shall be made more purely anglophile in culture, Varennes shall shed the last remaining vestiges of her former francophile culture, and be reformed along lines that can best be described as "celtic".

Just as an anglophile nation united with a francophile one presents an obvious degree of incompatibility, so an anglophile kingdom united with a celtic one surely represents an undeniable harmony of "design". As Scotland is to England, so Varennes will be to Hanover.

Naturally, the name of the Kingdom of Varennes will need to be changed to something suitably celtic, and that will be accomplished.

Already, with the Constitutional Charter of 2006, the Kingdom of Varennes adopted a traditional Westminster-style government. Now the transition continues as we reform her culture in suitable fashion.

In the end, it is His Majesty's hope and mine, and ours altogether, I believe, that this whole community may be appropriately transformed and redesigned in such a way as to define it permanently in a way that makes sense; refashioned in a manner which will appeal to persons who have a fondness for the cultures we wish to embrace and for the style of government we ultimately desire to emulate.

The Kingdom of Varennes now begins this final stage of her transition to greater compatibility with the Kingdom of Hanover. My hope is that we will all likewise join in allowing Hanover to complete her own transition.

God save the King.]]>
As many of you are aware, the Kingdom of Varennes has been in the process of transitioning away from her original French ancien regime culture to one more compatible with modernity and with her senior sister in commonwealth, the Kingdom of Hanover.

In 2006, Varennes was formally united in a sisterhood of commonwealth with the Kingdom of Hanover when I, then king of Varennes, entered into a formal treaty with King Alexander, abdicating immediately thereafter in his favour. At that moment, the Crowns of Hanover and Varennes became inextricably linked, and I was appointed Governor General of Varennes, to represent the King in Right of Varennes.

Following those actions, the Constitutional Charter of 2006 was enacted via Royal Proclamation, thereby continuing the transition of the Varennaise nation. Varennes' absolutist regime came to an end at that moment, and Westminster-style Parliamentary democracy found yet another home in this world.

Although I tendered my resignation as Governor General during the reign of King Alexander, I was, last Summer, reappointed to that post by His Majesty the King. Because the forums of the Kingdom of Varennes no longer exist, there was no means by which to post and gazette the letters patent appointing me to that office.

I would like to formally request, therefore, at this time, that a single forum be opened for the purposes of posting official documents pertaining to the next stage of the Varennaise transition.

As the only remaining active Varennois are His Majesty the King and myself, and as the current Constitution prevents us from continuing the transitional process without an Act of Parliament, His Majesty and I have deemed that the Constitutional process shall be subverted out of necessity, so that the transition can be completed.

Needless to say, it would be the more desirable to summon a Parliament to preside over this task. Yet with only the King and one subject left, to do so would be utterly impossible. Yet it is necessary to complete this transition in order that this community, as a whole, might, as we have agreed, be made to "make sense".

It is in the spirit of following our current instincts regarding the future of this community that His Majesty and I have come to this decision.

Therefore, as we mean to make of Hanover a purified thing that can have appeal to a demographic which is, in character and affinity, both anglophile and committed to the replication of Westminster-style government, so we wish to make of Varennes a more compatible partner in community, with a culture that compliments that of a renewed Hanover.

Our dear friends in the Empire of the Alexandrians have, over the past several years, successfully cornered the market, so to speak, on anglophone francophile culture with respect to this sort of a community. We have determined that they are the nation to best project that culture, and we no longer wish to encroach upon what has undeniably become their 'turf'.

We have determined, therefore, that as Hanover shall be made more purely anglophile in culture, Varennes shall shed the last remaining vestiges of her former francophile culture, and be reformed along lines that can best be described as "celtic".

Just as an anglophile nation united with a francophile one presents an obvious degree of incompatibility, so an anglophile kingdom united with a celtic one surely represents an undeniable harmony of "design". As Scotland is to England, so Varennes will be to Hanover.

Naturally, the name of the Kingdom of Varennes will need to be changed to something suitably celtic, and that will be accomplished.

Already, with the Constitutional Charter of 2006, the Kingdom of Varennes adopted a traditional Westminster-style government. Now the transition continues as we reform her culture in suitable fashion.

In the end, it is His Majesty's hope and mine, and ours altogether, I believe, that this whole community may be appropriately transformed and redesigned in such a way as to define it permanently in a way that makes sense; refashioned in a manner which will appeal to persons who have a fondness for the cultures we wish to embrace and for the style of government we ultimately desire to emulate.

The Kingdom of Varennes now begins this final stage of her transition to greater compatibility with the Kingdom of Hanover. My hope is that we will all likewise join in allowing Hanover to complete her own transition.

God save the King.]]> <![CDATA["...of Hanover and Morovia, King..."]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5795 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 14:19:35 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5795
Before the invitation ever came, the Morovian Throne was abandoned for some reason that I cannot recall, and the address was never delivered.

Going through my files searching for something else, today, I chanced upon it...and since I went to the trouble to prepare remarks for the occasion, I post them now for the public record. They may be of interest to Hanoverian history buffs...if, indeed, such creatures exist:

Remarks to the Parliament of Hanover by His Majesty King James, First King of These Realms, On the Occasion of His Majesty the King's Accession to the Throne of Morovia

Madame Speaker,
My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Beloved Sons and Daughters,

Today I present myself before you, in response to your gracious and most thoughtful invitation, to address you on the occasion of His Majesty the King's accession to the Throne of the Kingdom of Morovia.

I cannot adequately express how touched I was to receive your greeting and your invitation; and how I rejoiced at the thought of being in your midst, so to speak, once again.

I am acutely sensible of the historical significance of the event we commemorate today. As many of you know, before I established the throne that (figuratively) stands behind me in this august chamber, I was, for a time, the subject of one who sat upon another throne. I refer, of course, to Vincent the Third, the first King of Morovia.

As Vincent's subject I learned for the first time what it meant to be the citizen of a non-territorial national community. I learned many lessons from my observations of the most active and outspoken political, religious and cultural leaders of the day within the community, and thanks to the kind encouragement of His Majesty and many, many others, I was able to become, myself, an active and enthusiastic contributor to the great civic pageant.

For the neophyte, an inaugural foray into this relatively new mode of encountering community can be a bewildering experience. One is instantly presented with a barrage of unfamiliar customs and expectations, and it is easy enough to stumble through what often amounts to a rather odd jungle planted thick with strange new flora. For some, this unique frontier may represent an appalling adjustment of paradigm. For others, the logic is quite clear from the very start. In every case, our experiences depend heavily upon the personalities we encounter along the way.

I was fortunate enough to encounter the Kingdom of Morovia and all the wonderful personalities there present before I did other similar communities. I say fortunate because I have observed many other such communities since discovering Morovia, and so many of them would have caused me to be repelled by this so-called 'micro-national' phenomenon had they been my first point of encounter with it.

The Kingdom of Morovia, however, a vibrant community of intelligent, politically active, and culturally astute citizens, immediately opened my eyes to the notion that community--even national community--is possible amongst persons scattered about the four corners of the earth. And in Morovia I found a second motherland, as it were; a national community in which one might have a significant impact upon the whole of society just for taking the initiative to become involved.

In the end, the engaging and vibrant community that I knew as Morovia would, sadly, collapse. Some of us who remained until the end, however, were fortunate enough to be able to salvage parts from her ruins and, by welding those parts saved from the ashes to new elements fashioned for a new nation, were able to rebuild our familiar society and expand upon it within the framework of a new kingdom. This kingdom of Hanover, of course, is that new kingdom.

Much later, the very centrepieces of Morovian society--whose neglect of their own creation led to what might have been her final dereliction--would approach the Hanoverian Crown in an attempt to presume upon this nation's life's blood for an infusion into the silenced heart of Morovia's ostensible remains, such as they were. It was not to be, however. What was once good and alive about Morovia now formed an inalienable limb of the living body of the Kingdom of Hanover. Hanover had Morovia coarsing through her veins for years by that time. Morovia was truly and genuinely present only in the heart of Hanover; and not in the suddenly rekindled nostalgia of the occasional champions of the ghosts of her past.

Although the Kingdom of Hanover had replaced Morovia's fallen infrastructure as the new home of the Morovian people, the Crown of Morovia, as such, remained a fact de jure. The name 'Morovia' still lingered; and her sovereign would re-emerge every now and again, to assure all that "reports of (his) demise were greatly exaggerated". Eventually, however, Vincent would abdicate in favour of another, and his successor has now forfeited Vincent's throne to the present King of Hanover according to the terms of an agreement between King Alexander and himself.

The irony that one of my successors upon the Hanoverian Throne should become King of Morovia will not be lost on those of you who have been around for the past six years or so. I suppose that does number very few of you, at this point. Many of the rest of you may not have heard the compelling stories of your nation's origins, and of how the disappearance of a king was responsible for the birth of a nation. I will spare this august body a detailed history lecture (beyond that which I have already delivered). There are those, here, who can, another time, relate the rest of the story to any who desire to hear it. And these fora are replete with archives documenting the nation's history.

Today, Morovia's long day's journey into night comes full circle: she returns again to behold the light of day; her future secure. Today, Morovia continues as she has since 2002: in the hearts and memories of the people of Hanover. But with the accession of King Alexander to the throne established by Vincent III, Morovia is no longer merely a fond memory or simply a point of law; she will continue wholly intact as a sovereign nation.

Throughout the course of my reign I witnessed all of those things one might expect to witness: subjects appearing and vanishing, governments coming and going, diplomats arriving and departing, news journals beginning and ending, banks rising and falling, churches demanding our faith in their everlasting mission before crumbling to dust, enthusiasms waxing and waning. I could never have anticipated in my most far-fetched imaginations, however, the event we celebrate on this occasion.

I offer, then, my most sincere congratulations to His Majesty the King. It was history chose His Majesty to be that monarch to seal and make formal the final union between Morovia and Hanover that has so long been in the making. Like the Stuart King James I at last, in 1603, astride both the Scotch and the English thrones--uniting two kindred kingdoms forever in an empire of fraternity--so does Hanover's king now sit happily upon the thrones of once estranged sister realms.

As I congratulate Morovia's new king, however, I would be remiss were I to fail to give thanks and praise to her first king for giving birth to that happy realm that drew so many of us to a very grand experience that has, ultimately, enriched all our lives. King Vincent's Morovia demonstrated that a community of this sort is only as good as the people who comprise it. The authenticity and vitality we so enjoyed during Morovia's golden years was only possible on account of the commitment to excellence that so many Morovians shared in those days.

That commitment to excellence followed us to Hanover. Whereas so many less-compelling communities of this nature lack appeal on account of their preference for a highly inauthentic shorthand approach to nation-building and statecraft, Hanover has usually been regarded as an example of the best sort of non-territorial nation.

My prayer is that the Kingdom of Hanover will faithfully resist the inexplicable temptation to trade an authentic experience of nationhood for something easier but far less worthy of her heritage. Alas, those who would be so tempted will never read my prayer, as their slight attention spans will not have permitted them to persevere this far in the reading of these remarks. But Hanover must never fall under the sway of those who clamour to lower the bar. In fact, it might be argued that Hanover is under an obligation to advance and to perfect herself. Having come this far, it might be said, not to go forward is to fail.

As my remarks draw to a close, allow me to express my sincere appreciation for all that you--my former people--have given me through the years. In your company I have known joys and sorrows, failures and triumphs. Through it all, we have grown together. Through it all, we have joined in a bond of unbreakable friendship. Through it all, we have sailed through largely uncharted waters to discover a new world.

Seven years ago, when I first joined with that happy­ company that would become the original populace of this nation, I could not help but fall in love with this kingdom we together built and called Hanover. I have returned several times since my first departure, and my affection has grown with each succeeding visit.

As this community begins a new chapter in her story, I offer my heartfelt prayer that these realms will continue to be blessed by the God by Whose grace the new King of Morovia reigns, and by which the King of Hanover ever has.

God save the King.]]>
Before the invitation ever came, the Morovian Throne was abandoned for some reason that I cannot recall, and the address was never delivered.

Going through my files searching for something else, today, I chanced upon it...and since I went to the trouble to prepare remarks for the occasion, I post them now for the public record. They may be of interest to Hanoverian history buffs...if, indeed, such creatures exist:

Remarks to the Parliament of Hanover by His Majesty King James, First King of These Realms, On the Occasion of His Majesty the King's Accession to the Throne of Morovia

Madame Speaker,
My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Beloved Sons and Daughters,

Today I present myself before you, in response to your gracious and most thoughtful invitation, to address you on the occasion of His Majesty the King's accession to the Throne of the Kingdom of Morovia.

I cannot adequately express how touched I was to receive your greeting and your invitation; and how I rejoiced at the thought of being in your midst, so to speak, once again.

I am acutely sensible of the historical significance of the event we commemorate today. As many of you know, before I established the throne that (figuratively) stands behind me in this august chamber, I was, for a time, the subject of one who sat upon another throne. I refer, of course, to Vincent the Third, the first King of Morovia.

As Vincent's subject I learned for the first time what it meant to be the citizen of a non-territorial national community. I learned many lessons from my observations of the most active and outspoken political, religious and cultural leaders of the day within the community, and thanks to the kind encouragement of His Majesty and many, many others, I was able to become, myself, an active and enthusiastic contributor to the great civic pageant.

For the neophyte, an inaugural foray into this relatively new mode of encountering community can be a bewildering experience. One is instantly presented with a barrage of unfamiliar customs and expectations, and it is easy enough to stumble through what often amounts to a rather odd jungle planted thick with strange new flora. For some, this unique frontier may represent an appalling adjustment of paradigm. For others, the logic is quite clear from the very start. In every case, our experiences depend heavily upon the personalities we encounter along the way.

I was fortunate enough to encounter the Kingdom of Morovia and all the wonderful personalities there present before I did other similar communities. I say fortunate because I have observed many other such communities since discovering Morovia, and so many of them would have caused me to be repelled by this so-called 'micro-national' phenomenon had they been my first point of encounter with it.

The Kingdom of Morovia, however, a vibrant community of intelligent, politically active, and culturally astute citizens, immediately opened my eyes to the notion that community--even national community--is possible amongst persons scattered about the four corners of the earth. And in Morovia I found a second motherland, as it were; a national community in which one might have a significant impact upon the whole of society just for taking the initiative to become involved.

In the end, the engaging and vibrant community that I knew as Morovia would, sadly, collapse. Some of us who remained until the end, however, were fortunate enough to be able to salvage parts from her ruins and, by welding those parts saved from the ashes to new elements fashioned for a new nation, were able to rebuild our familiar society and expand upon it within the framework of a new kingdom. This kingdom of Hanover, of course, is that new kingdom.

Much later, the very centrepieces of Morovian society--whose neglect of their own creation led to what might have been her final dereliction--would approach the Hanoverian Crown in an attempt to presume upon this nation's life's blood for an infusion into the silenced heart of Morovia's ostensible remains, such as they were. It was not to be, however. What was once good and alive about Morovia now formed an inalienable limb of the living body of the Kingdom of Hanover. Hanover had Morovia coarsing through her veins for years by that time. Morovia was truly and genuinely present only in the heart of Hanover; and not in the suddenly rekindled nostalgia of the occasional champions of the ghosts of her past.

Although the Kingdom of Hanover had replaced Morovia's fallen infrastructure as the new home of the Morovian people, the Crown of Morovia, as such, remained a fact de jure. The name 'Morovia' still lingered; and her sovereign would re-emerge every now and again, to assure all that "reports of (his) demise were greatly exaggerated". Eventually, however, Vincent would abdicate in favour of another, and his successor has now forfeited Vincent's throne to the present King of Hanover according to the terms of an agreement between King Alexander and himself.

The irony that one of my successors upon the Hanoverian Throne should become King of Morovia will not be lost on those of you who have been around for the past six years or so. I suppose that does number very few of you, at this point. Many of the rest of you may not have heard the compelling stories of your nation's origins, and of how the disappearance of a king was responsible for the birth of a nation. I will spare this august body a detailed history lecture (beyond that which I have already delivered). There are those, here, who can, another time, relate the rest of the story to any who desire to hear it. And these fora are replete with archives documenting the nation's history.

Today, Morovia's long day's journey into night comes full circle: she returns again to behold the light of day; her future secure. Today, Morovia continues as she has since 2002: in the hearts and memories of the people of Hanover. But with the accession of King Alexander to the throne established by Vincent III, Morovia is no longer merely a fond memory or simply a point of law; she will continue wholly intact as a sovereign nation.

Throughout the course of my reign I witnessed all of those things one might expect to witness: subjects appearing and vanishing, governments coming and going, diplomats arriving and departing, news journals beginning and ending, banks rising and falling, churches demanding our faith in their everlasting mission before crumbling to dust, enthusiasms waxing and waning. I could never have anticipated in my most far-fetched imaginations, however, the event we celebrate on this occasion.

I offer, then, my most sincere congratulations to His Majesty the King. It was history chose His Majesty to be that monarch to seal and make formal the final union between Morovia and Hanover that has so long been in the making. Like the Stuart King James I at last, in 1603, astride both the Scotch and the English thrones--uniting two kindred kingdoms forever in an empire of fraternity--so does Hanover's king now sit happily upon the thrones of once estranged sister realms.

As I congratulate Morovia's new king, however, I would be remiss were I to fail to give thanks and praise to her first king for giving birth to that happy realm that drew so many of us to a very grand experience that has, ultimately, enriched all our lives. King Vincent's Morovia demonstrated that a community of this sort is only as good as the people who comprise it. The authenticity and vitality we so enjoyed during Morovia's golden years was only possible on account of the commitment to excellence that so many Morovians shared in those days.

That commitment to excellence followed us to Hanover. Whereas so many less-compelling communities of this nature lack appeal on account of their preference for a highly inauthentic shorthand approach to nation-building and statecraft, Hanover has usually been regarded as an example of the best sort of non-territorial nation.

My prayer is that the Kingdom of Hanover will faithfully resist the inexplicable temptation to trade an authentic experience of nationhood for something easier but far less worthy of her heritage. Alas, those who would be so tempted will never read my prayer, as their slight attention spans will not have permitted them to persevere this far in the reading of these remarks. But Hanover must never fall under the sway of those who clamour to lower the bar. In fact, it might be argued that Hanover is under an obligation to advance and to perfect herself. Having come this far, it might be said, not to go forward is to fail.

As my remarks draw to a close, allow me to express my sincere appreciation for all that you--my former people--have given me through the years. In your company I have known joys and sorrows, failures and triumphs. Through it all, we have grown together. Through it all, we have joined in a bond of unbreakable friendship. Through it all, we have sailed through largely uncharted waters to discover a new world.

Seven years ago, when I first joined with that happy­ company that would become the original populace of this nation, I could not help but fall in love with this kingdom we together built and called Hanover. I have returned several times since my first departure, and my affection has grown with each succeeding visit.

As this community begins a new chapter in her story, I offer my heartfelt prayer that these realms will continue to be blessed by the God by Whose grace the new King of Morovia reigns, and by which the King of Hanover ever has.

God save the King.]]> <![CDATA[Order in the Court...]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5794 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 21:29:32 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5794
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLplQWB2S_8&NR=1

Or perhaps like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJpY7eT6o...re=related

And I submit to the court exhibit Q, in honour of Hanover's first and openly-gay justice, the Hon. Mr. Justice Brenneman:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_oMeNJfL...re=related]]>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLplQWB2S_8&NR=1

Or perhaps like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJpY7eT6o...re=related

And I submit to the court exhibit Q, in honour of Hanover's first and openly-gay justice, the Hon. Mr. Justice Brenneman:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_oMeNJfL...re=related]]> <![CDATA[HAPPY NEW YEAR!]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5793 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 22:02:22 -0700 Duke of Gottingen http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5793 <![CDATA[Seeing is Believing]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5792 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 17:16:59 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5792
As we cannot act out the ceremonies of state that we contrive to present as best we can via this discussion board, but only post the texts used in those ceremonies, I'm sure it is true that most of us have difficulty imagining just what our ceremonial actvities would look like were we to personally act them out.

Earlier in the year, legislation was granted the Royal Assent by Lords Commissioners acting on His Majesty's behalf and in his name. Also, a new speaker was seated. While many of us may be familiar with large ceremonies, such as the State Opening of Parliament, how many of us, I wonder, have ever witnessed an event in the House of Lords presided over by Lords Commissioners? How many of us have seen the ceremony in which a speaker of the House of Commons is seated?

For the benefit and edification of any subject or visitor who has not seen such ceremonies and cannot begin to envision them, I post the following links to a YouTube clip that shows the full ceremony of the Royal Approbation of a new Speaker of the British House of Commons granted in the Queen's name by Lords Commissioners under the Great Seal:


Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OpsqHCxZ...re=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8FYjqb9n1I
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq6SoTEM_Q8

As you can see, it is posted to YouTube in three parts. The footage is recent, and the video is of fine quality. There is also helpful commentary from the BBC presenter and his guest, former speaker of the House of Commons, Betty Boothroy. Watch it full-screen: you'll enjoy it much, much better. Anyone wishing to cut to the chase and watch the guts of the ceremony minus all the processions and summonings, should click on the second link. I don't recommend it, though.

I invite Hanoverians to acquaint themselves with this ceremony and others like it. When we see our ceremonies unfold before our eyes, it helps to remind us of why we are here and of what we are doing and of what we mean to project to the rest of the world, as best we can. The witnessing of such an event can only serve to help us believe in who we are as a nation.

It is one thing to read what we do; it is another to watch what we would do.]]>
As we cannot act out the ceremonies of state that we contrive to present as best we can via this discussion board, but only post the texts used in those ceremonies, I'm sure it is true that most of us have difficulty imagining just what our ceremonial actvities would look like were we to personally act them out.

Earlier in the year, legislation was granted the Royal Assent by Lords Commissioners acting on His Majesty's behalf and in his name. Also, a new speaker was seated. While many of us may be familiar with large ceremonies, such as the State Opening of Parliament, how many of us, I wonder, have ever witnessed an event in the House of Lords presided over by Lords Commissioners? How many of us have seen the ceremony in which a speaker of the House of Commons is seated?

For the benefit and edification of any subject or visitor who has not seen such ceremonies and cannot begin to envision them, I post the following links to a YouTube clip that shows the full ceremony of the Royal Approbation of a new Speaker of the British House of Commons granted in the Queen's name by Lords Commissioners under the Great Seal:


Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OpsqHCxZ...re=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8FYjqb9n1I
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq6SoTEM_Q8

As you can see, it is posted to YouTube in three parts. The footage is recent, and the video is of fine quality. There is also helpful commentary from the BBC presenter and his guest, former speaker of the House of Commons, Betty Boothroy. Watch it full-screen: you'll enjoy it much, much better. Anyone wishing to cut to the chase and watch the guts of the ceremony minus all the processions and summonings, should click on the second link. I don't recommend it, though.

I invite Hanoverians to acquaint themselves with this ceremony and others like it. When we see our ceremonies unfold before our eyes, it helps to remind us of why we are here and of what we are doing and of what we mean to project to the rest of the world, as best we can. The witnessing of such an event can only serve to help us believe in who we are as a nation.

It is one thing to read what we do; it is another to watch what we would do.]]> <![CDATA[Westminster]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5791 Mon, 28 Dec 2009 21:57:16 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5791
WESTMINSTER



Clips Pertaining to Westminster-style Government



These clips are offered as a public service for anyone wishing to better acquaint himself with Westminster-style government. Clips of parliamentary activities from various nations having Westminster-style parliaments and governments are featured.


Parliament and Government: An Overview: The United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmGCwiQvh...playnext=1

House of Lords: What's it all about? The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtqWwCIhW4E

The Role of A Member of Parliament: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iL3F-q1a...re=channel

A New Peer is Seated in the House of Lords: The UK House of Lords
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QhLTUnk7NY

Queen's Speech Debate: The UK House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsAa9VmwOaI&NR=1

Questions for Oral Answer: The New Zealand House of Representatives
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9juDFBb3...re=related

Prime Minister's Question Time: The UK House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3J9qbBS3...re=related

Civics Project Throne Speech
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrSBweZjUCg

The Opening of the Scottish Parliament by the Queen of Scots
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWL_P0_yR...re=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIauTEpyK3U&NR=1

Speech From the Throne: Parliament of New Zealand
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyjvl27Qe...re=related

State Opening of Parliament: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptXLllaR2...re=related

The Dissolution of Parliament: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wKeUZx00bU

The Speaker Issues a Decision From The Chair: The Canadian House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yoz4ox601qI

How The Speaker is Elected: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aMdSLfbg...re=related

Royal Approbation Granted to the Speaker-Elect of the House of Commons: The UK House of Lords
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OpsqHCxZ...re=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8FYjqb9n1I
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq6SoTEM_Q8

Judges' Arrival at Lord Chancellor's Breakfast: United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHG1uZheP...re=related

Dissolution of the British Parliament by King Charles II (Dramatic Reenactment)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h78n8akiSI4

The King's Gracious Speech: The Parliament of Hanover
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laanEAuUQlE

Opening of Parliament Ceremonies: The Parliament of New Zealand
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uXTwAlQQHc

Speech From the Throne: The Parliament of Canada
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyAC7NhbJ...re=related

Throne Speech: The Legislature of St. Lucia
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc2-yRDRU...re=related

Tradition and Ceremony: The Senate of Canada
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdSVRYC04YU

The Prime Minister spars with the Leader of the Opposition: UK House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RazDlp-CD...ature=fvwp]]>
WESTMINSTER



Clips Pertaining to Westminster-style Government



These clips are offered as a public service for anyone wishing to better acquaint himself with Westminster-style government. Clips of parliamentary activities from various nations having Westminster-style parliaments and governments are featured.


Parliament and Government: An Overview: The United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmGCwiQvh...playnext=1

House of Lords: What's it all about? The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtqWwCIhW4E

The Role of A Member of Parliament: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iL3F-q1a...re=channel

A New Peer is Seated in the House of Lords: The UK House of Lords
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QhLTUnk7NY

Queen's Speech Debate: The UK House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsAa9VmwOaI&NR=1

Questions for Oral Answer: The New Zealand House of Representatives
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9juDFBb3...re=related

Prime Minister's Question Time: The UK House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3J9qbBS3...re=related

Civics Project Throne Speech
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrSBweZjUCg

The Opening of the Scottish Parliament by the Queen of Scots
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWL_P0_yR...re=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIauTEpyK3U&NR=1

Speech From the Throne: Parliament of New Zealand
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyjvl27Qe...re=related

State Opening of Parliament: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptXLllaR2...re=related

The Dissolution of Parliament: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wKeUZx00bU

The Speaker Issues a Decision From The Chair: The Canadian House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yoz4ox601qI

How The Speaker is Elected: The Parliament of the United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aMdSLfbg...re=related

Royal Approbation Granted to the Speaker-Elect of the House of Commons: The UK House of Lords
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OpsqHCxZ...re=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8FYjqb9n1I
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq6SoTEM_Q8

Judges' Arrival at Lord Chancellor's Breakfast: United Kingdom
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHG1uZheP...re=related

Dissolution of the British Parliament by King Charles II (Dramatic Reenactment)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h78n8akiSI4

The King's Gracious Speech: The Parliament of Hanover
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laanEAuUQlE

Opening of Parliament Ceremonies: The Parliament of New Zealand
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uXTwAlQQHc

Speech From the Throne: The Parliament of Canada
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyAC7NhbJ...re=related

Throne Speech: The Legislature of St. Lucia
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc2-yRDRU...re=related

Tradition and Ceremony: The Senate of Canada
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdSVRYC04YU

The Prime Minister spars with the Leader of the Opposition: UK House of Commons
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RazDlp-CD...ature=fvwp]]> <![CDATA[Christmas Day Lesson]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5790 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 01:10:16 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5790 CHRISTMAS LESSON


A Reading From the First Chapter of the Gospel of St. John:



In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.



From the See of Kells to the people of Hanover and to all the world:

Merry Christmas.]]> CHRISTMAS LESSON


A Reading From the First Chapter of the Gospel of St. John:



In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.



From the See of Kells to the people of Hanover and to all the world:

Merry Christmas.]]> <![CDATA[The King's Christmas Address 2009]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5789 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:28:21 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5789 THE KING'S CHRISTMAS ADDRESS
2009


Merry Christmas.

His Majesty the King had hoped to personally address his people on Christmas Day, but he finds himself unable to do so this year. For that reason, he has asked me to transmit his first annual Christmas address to you. It was originally intended that the King's address be broadcast to you via video recording on YouTube; however, due to an unfortunate technical malfunction, that will not be possible. That leaves the text of His Majesty's address to be posted in the usual fashion here in this forum, and it is now my distinct privilege and high honour to so do:


The Text of His Majesty the King's Christmas Day Address, 2009


Christmas is a richly symbolic day set apart to take us beyond the everyday into the mysteries of something rare and precious. On Christmas day, we celebrate and reflect upon the birth of Jesus Christ, who declared to all mankind that the world was bound by a new law: the law of Love. It is a time when families and friends come together to share gifts and to make memories. For some of us, the winter holidays can be a trying time, particularly for those of us who endure economic hardship, or who have lost loved ones, or who endure separation from family members serving in the uniformed services abroad. For my own family, this Christmas will be marked by a degree of melancholy as a cherished relative finds himself in extremis and may not survive to see the dawn of the new year. For many, the past year has been filled with challenges, disappointments, and trials; yet the spirit of this season of lights still can manage to change moods and lift our countenances.

Much of the joy that we derive from the Christmas season comes from giving of ourselves to others. There are two charities close to my heart this year: firstly, Toys for Tots, a very heartwarming program that accepts toy donations for underprivileged children. Although toys and material gifts are not the true meaning of this holiday, it is heartbreaking to think of any child who is unable to open gifts on Christmas morning. The second is Virgin Mobile's Re-Generation program which raises money for homeless children and teens. It is my hope that those who hear my message will bear in mind these and other charities during this season and throughout the year. To share ourselves and our bounty with those who are less fortunate than ourselves is really what the Christmas season is all about.

Our nation has also had its own particular set of disappointments this year. I take great comfort, however, in seeing that you, my devoted subjects, have picked up the torch once again, and that you are committed as ever to preserving the community that we have all come to cherish. For my own part, I will continue to strive to be worthy of the great trust that my predecessors and my people have reposed in me. The vows I made upon my accession hold more true than ever, and I have not wavered in my dedication and commitment to the kingdom I so revere. This nation has observed my upbringing and I have learned so many things from the people who I now so proudly call my subjects.

I have already unwrapped the gifts you have given me: the gifts of your loyalty, of your devotion, of your true faith, of your service, and of your patriotism. I wish to return your generosity with my own gift of unwavering dedication to duty, and of my undying appreciation of your friendship.

I wish each and every one of you a happy Christmas and a blessed new year full of health, happiness, and prosperity. Wherever you are in the world, may God bless you all.]]> THE KING'S CHRISTMAS ADDRESS
2009


Merry Christmas.

His Majesty the King had hoped to personally address his people on Christmas Day, but he finds himself unable to do so this year. For that reason, he has asked me to transmit his first annual Christmas address to you. It was originally intended that the King's address be broadcast to you via video recording on YouTube; however, due to an unfortunate technical malfunction, that will not be possible. That leaves the text of His Majesty's address to be posted in the usual fashion here in this forum, and it is now my distinct privilege and high honour to so do:


The Text of His Majesty the King's Christmas Day Address, 2009


Christmas is a richly symbolic day set apart to take us beyond the everyday into the mysteries of something rare and precious. On Christmas day, we celebrate and reflect upon the birth of Jesus Christ, who declared to all mankind that the world was bound by a new law: the law of Love. It is a time when families and friends come together to share gifts and to make memories. For some of us, the winter holidays can be a trying time, particularly for those of us who endure economic hardship, or who have lost loved ones, or who endure separation from family members serving in the uniformed services abroad. For my own family, this Christmas will be marked by a degree of melancholy as a cherished relative finds himself in extremis and may not survive to see the dawn of the new year. For many, the past year has been filled with challenges, disappointments, and trials; yet the spirit of this season of lights still can manage to change moods and lift our countenances.

Much of the joy that we derive from the Christmas season comes from giving of ourselves to others. There are two charities close to my heart this year: firstly, Toys for Tots, a very heartwarming program that accepts toy donations for underprivileged children. Although toys and material gifts are not the true meaning of this holiday, it is heartbreaking to think of any child who is unable to open gifts on Christmas morning. The second is Virgin Mobile's Re-Generation program which raises money for homeless children and teens. It is my hope that those who hear my message will bear in mind these and other charities during this season and throughout the year. To share ourselves and our bounty with those who are less fortunate than ourselves is really what the Christmas season is all about.

Our nation has also had its own particular set of disappointments this year. I take great comfort, however, in seeing that you, my devoted subjects, have picked up the torch once again, and that you are committed as ever to preserving the community that we have all come to cherish. For my own part, I will continue to strive to be worthy of the great trust that my predecessors and my people have reposed in me. The vows I made upon my accession hold more true than ever, and I have not wavered in my dedication and commitment to the kingdom I so revere. This nation has observed my upbringing and I have learned so many things from the people who I now so proudly call my subjects.

I have already unwrapped the gifts you have given me: the gifts of your loyalty, of your devotion, of your true faith, of your service, and of your patriotism. I wish to return your generosity with my own gift of unwavering dedication to duty, and of my undying appreciation of your friendship.

I wish each and every one of you a happy Christmas and a blessed new year full of health, happiness, and prosperity. Wherever you are in the world, may God bless you all.]]> <![CDATA[To the Former Archbishop...]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5788 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 22:52:09 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5788
On the off chance that any of you might be monitoring these fora, allow me to wish all of you--despite our differences--a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

It is my greatest hope that you will one day reconcile with us and join us once again as we, of the Kingdom of Hanover, continue to labour for our nation's growth and advancement.

Your contributions to our community were many and for all that each of you has done for Hanover, for all your many efforts, I know my compatriots join me in thanking you.

Merry Christmas.]]>
On the off chance that any of you might be monitoring these fora, allow me to wish all of you--despite our differences--a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

It is my greatest hope that you will one day reconcile with us and join us once again as we, of the Kingdom of Hanover, continue to labour for our nation's growth and advancement.

Your contributions to our community were many and for all that each of you has done for Hanover, for all your many efforts, I know my compatriots join me in thanking you.

Merry Christmas.]]> <![CDATA[I'm Finally Finished!]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5787 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 21:06:17 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5787
If there's anything I absolutely dread, it's Christmas shopping; and if there's any place I utterly detest this time of year, it's the mall.

But now it is over, now it is quiet, and now one can rest...for which one is grateful.

It's amazing how this holiday of peace and lights can become so loathsome on account of hectic, last minute running around and chaos. Traffic, long lines, sales associates with an attitude, parking lots that are full, and a whole host of other similar factors conspire to spoil this holy time of the year for anyone.

Last weekend was much more my speed: I had the happiness of participating in my church's first annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. A service originally contrived by Dr. Eric Milner White for King's College, Cambridge after World War I, the popularity of it spread throughout the Anglican Communion, and from there to other Christian denominations, even to the Roman Catholic Church in the English-speaking world.

It was my privilege to serve both as crucifer and as a lesson presenter. Mine was the third of the nine lessons: a reading from Isaiah. It includes the famous line, "and a little child shall lead them." But the translation used, to my horror, was the New American Bible, which translates the line as "with a little child to guide them". That and other ghastly butcherings of the Douay Rheims (or King James, if you like) led me to rebellion.

The schola master permitted me to rebel, here and there, however, such that I was able to put a little English on my lesson. And so, in the end, the little child did, in fact, "lead" them, rather than guide them.

It was a beautiful, sublime service, and I'm very glad to know that it will be an annual event at St. Louis Church here in Buffalo, New York.

To me, that evening, far more than this one, was what Christmas is all about.]]>
If there's anything I absolutely dread, it's Christmas shopping; and if there's any place I utterly detest this time of year, it's the mall.

But now it is over, now it is quiet, and now one can rest...for which one is grateful.

It's amazing how this holiday of peace and lights can become so loathsome on account of hectic, last minute running around and chaos. Traffic, long lines, sales associates with an attitude, parking lots that are full, and a whole host of other similar factors conspire to spoil this holy time of the year for anyone.

Last weekend was much more my speed: I had the happiness of participating in my church's first annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. A service originally contrived by Dr. Eric Milner White for King's College, Cambridge after World War I, the popularity of it spread throughout the Anglican Communion, and from there to other Christian denominations, even to the Roman Catholic Church in the English-speaking world.

It was my privilege to serve both as crucifer and as a lesson presenter. Mine was the third of the nine lessons: a reading from Isaiah. It includes the famous line, "and a little child shall lead them." But the translation used, to my horror, was the New American Bible, which translates the line as "with a little child to guide them". That and other ghastly butcherings of the Douay Rheims (or King James, if you like) led me to rebellion.

The schola master permitted me to rebel, here and there, however, such that I was able to put a little English on my lesson. And so, in the end, the little child did, in fact, "lead" them, rather than guide them.

It was a beautiful, sublime service, and I'm very glad to know that it will be an annual event at St. Louis Church here in Buffalo, New York.

To me, that evening, far more than this one, was what Christmas is all about.]]> <![CDATA[Instrument Appointing James Marchmain Governor General]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5786 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:48:11 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5786
WE DO, by this Our Commission under Our Sign Manual and the Great Seal of Our Kingdom of Varennes, appoint you, James Richard Edward George Marchmain, to be, during Our pleasure, Our Governor General and Commander-in-Chief in and over our Kingdom of Varennes,

AND WE DO authorise, empower and command you to exercise and perform all and singular the powers and directions contained in the Constitutional Charter of 2006 relating to the office of Governor General or in future Letters Patent relating to that office, according to such instructions as Our Governor General for the time being may have received or may in future receive from Us, and according to such laws as are from time to time in force,

AND WE DO declare that the powers conferred by this Our Commission include any further powers that may in future be assigned to the Governor General,

FOR such is Our pleasure.

Witness Ourself at Valenciennes, this First Day of July in the Year of Grace 2009, and of Our Reign, the first.

James R.

*THE GREAT SEAL OF THE KINGDOM OF VARENNES*]]>
WE DO, by this Our Commission under Our Sign Manual and the Great Seal of Our Kingdom of Varennes, appoint you, James Richard Edward George Marchmain, to be, during Our pleasure, Our Governor General and Commander-in-Chief in and over our Kingdom of Varennes,

AND WE DO authorise, empower and command you to exercise and perform all and singular the powers and directions contained in the Constitutional Charter of 2006 relating to the office of Governor General or in future Letters Patent relating to that office, according to such instructions as Our Governor General for the time being may have received or may in future receive from Us, and according to such laws as are from time to time in force,

AND WE DO declare that the powers conferred by this Our Commission include any further powers that may in future be assigned to the Governor General,

FOR such is Our pleasure.

Witness Ourself at Valenciennes, this First Day of July in the Year of Grace 2009, and of Our Reign, the first.

James R.

*THE GREAT SEAL OF THE KINGDOM OF VARENNES*]]> <![CDATA[Transition: Varennes]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5785 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 22:53:13 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5785 Completing the Transition of the Kingdom of Varennes

As many of you are aware, the Kingdom of Varennes has been in the process of transitioning away from her original French ancien regime culture to one more compatible with modernity and with her senior sister in commonwealth, the Kingdom of Hanover.

In 2006, Varennes was formally united in a sisterhood of commonwealth with the Kingdom of Hanover when I, then king of Varennes, entered into a formal treaty with King Alexander, abdicating immediately thereafter in his favour. At that moment, the Crowns of Hanover and Varennes became inextricably linked, and I was appointed Governor General of Varennes, to represent the King in Right of Varennes.

Following those actions, the Constitutional Charter of 2006 was enacted via Royal Proclamation, thereby continuing the transition of the Varennaise nation. Varennes' absolutist regime came to an end at that moment, and Westminster-style Parliamentary democracy found yet another home in this world.

Although I tendered my resignation as Governor General during the reign of King Alexander, I was, last Summer, reappointed to that post by His Majesty the King. Because the forums of the Kingdom of Varennes no longer exist, there was no means by which to post and gazette the letters patent appointing me to that office.

I would like to formally request, therefore, at this time, that a single forum be opened for the purposes of posting official documents pertaining to the next stage of the Varennaise transition.

As the only remaining active Varennois are His Majesty the King and myself, and as the current Constitution prevents us from continuing the transitional process without an Act of Parliament, His Majesty and I have deemed that the Constitutional process shall be subverted out of necessity, so that the transition can be completed.

Needless to say, it would be the more desirable to summon a Parliament to preside over this task. Yet with only the King and one subject left, to do so would be utterly impossible. Yet it is necessary to complete this transition in order that this community, as a whole, might, as we have agreed, be made to "make sense".

It is in the spirit of following our current instincts regarding the future of this community that His Majesty and I have come to this decision.

Therefore, as we mean to make of Hanover a purified thing that can have appeal to a demographic which is, in character and affinity, both anglophile and committed to the replication of Westminster-style government, so we wish to make of Varennes a more compatible partner in community, with a culture that compliments that of a renewed Hanover.

Our dear friends in the Empire of the Alexandrians have, over the past several years, successfully cornered the market, so to speak, on anglophone francophile culture with respect to this sort of a community. We have determined that they are the nation to best project that culture, and we no longer wish to encroach upon what has undeniably become their 'turf'.

We have determined, therefore, that as Hanover shall be made more purely anglophile in culture, Varennes shall shed the last remaining vestiges of her former francophile culture, and be reformed along lines that can best be described as "celtic".

Just as an anglophile nation united with a francophile one presents an obvious degree of incompatibility, so an anglophile kingdom united with a celtic one surely represents an undeniable harmony of "design". As Scotland is to England, so Varennes will be to Hanover.

Naturally, the name of the Kingdom of Varennes will need to be changed to something suitably celtic, and that will be accomplished.

Already, with the Constitutional Charter of 2006, the Kingdom of Varennes adopted a traditional Westminster-style government. Now the transition continues as we reform her culture in suitable fashion.

In the end, it is His Majesty's hope and mine, and ours altogether, I believe, that this whole community may be appropriately transformed and redesigned in such a way as to define it permanently in a way that makes sense; refashioned in a manner which will appeal to persons who have a fondness for the cultures we wish to embrace and for the style of government we ultimately desire to emulate.

The Kingdom of Varennes now begins this final stage of her transition to greater compatibility with the Kingdom of Hanover. My hope is that we will all likewise join in allowing Hanover to complete her own transition.

God save the King.]]> Completing the Transition of the Kingdom of Varennes

As many of you are aware, the Kingdom of Varennes has been in the process of transitioning away from her original French ancien regime culture to one more compatible with modernity and with her senior sister in commonwealth, the Kingdom of Hanover.

In 2006, Varennes was formally united in a sisterhood of commonwealth with the Kingdom of Hanover when I, then king of Varennes, entered into a formal treaty with King Alexander, abdicating immediately thereafter in his favour. At that moment, the Crowns of Hanover and Varennes became inextricably linked, and I was appointed Governor General of Varennes, to represent the King in Right of Varennes.

Following those actions, the Constitutional Charter of 2006 was enacted via Royal Proclamation, thereby continuing the transition of the Varennaise nation. Varennes' absolutist regime came to an end at that moment, and Westminster-style Parliamentary democracy found yet another home in this world.

Although I tendered my resignation as Governor General during the reign of King Alexander, I was, last Summer, reappointed to that post by His Majesty the King. Because the forums of the Kingdom of Varennes no longer exist, there was no means by which to post and gazette the letters patent appointing me to that office.

I would like to formally request, therefore, at this time, that a single forum be opened for the purposes of posting official documents pertaining to the next stage of the Varennaise transition.

As the only remaining active Varennois are His Majesty the King and myself, and as the current Constitution prevents us from continuing the transitional process without an Act of Parliament, His Majesty and I have deemed that the Constitutional process shall be subverted out of necessity, so that the transition can be completed.

Needless to say, it would be the more desirable to summon a Parliament to preside over this task. Yet with only the King and one subject left, to do so would be utterly impossible. Yet it is necessary to complete this transition in order that this community, as a whole, might, as we have agreed, be made to "make sense".

It is in the spirit of following our current instincts regarding the future of this community that His Majesty and I have come to this decision.

Therefore, as we mean to make of Hanover a purified thing that can have appeal to a demographic which is, in character and affinity, both anglophile and committed to the replication of Westminster-style government, so we wish to make of Varennes a more compatible partner in community, with a culture that compliments that of a renewed Hanover.

Our dear friends in the Empire of the Alexandrians have, over the past several years, successfully cornered the market, so to speak, on anglophone francophile culture with respect to this sort of a community. We have determined that they are the nation to best project that culture, and we no longer wish to encroach upon what has undeniably become their 'turf'.

We have determined, therefore, that as Hanover shall be made more purely anglophile in culture, Varennes shall shed the last remaining vestiges of her former francophile culture, and be reformed along lines that can best be described as "celtic".

Just as an anglophile nation united with a francophile one presents an obvious degree of incompatibility, so an anglophile kingdom united with a celtic one surely represents an undeniable harmony of "design". As Scotland is to England, so Varennes will be to Hanover.

Naturally, the name of the Kingdom of Varennes will need to be changed to something suitably celtic, and that will be accomplished.

Already, with the Constitutional Charter of 2006, the Kingdom of Varennes adopted a traditional Westminster-style government. Now the transition continues as we reform her culture in suitable fashion.

In the end, it is His Majesty's hope and mine, and ours altogether, I believe, that this whole community may be appropriately transformed and redesigned in such a way as to define it permanently in a way that makes sense; refashioned in a manner which will appeal to persons who have a fondness for the cultures we wish to embrace and for the style of government we ultimately desire to emulate.

The Kingdom of Varennes now begins this final stage of her transition to greater compatibility with the Kingdom of Hanover. My hope is that we will all likewise join in allowing Hanover to complete her own transition.

God save the King.]]> <![CDATA[Etiquette]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5784 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:45:23 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5784
With respect to individuals specifically mentioned therein, I have not yet included post nominal lettres, for which I beg your pardon. I'm just not sure what they all are, I'm afraid, in anybody's case (my own, included).

At any rate, if you see your name and find something that seems incorrect concerning what I have written about your styles and titles, or if you have any questions about anything, I invite you to address your concerns either on this thread or on the etiquette thread, itself.

I will continue to expand the guidelines from time-to-time as I am able.]]>
With respect to individuals specifically mentioned therein, I have not yet included post nominal lettres, for which I beg your pardon. I'm just not sure what they all are, I'm afraid, in anybody's case (my own, included).

At any rate, if you see your name and find something that seems incorrect concerning what I have written about your styles and titles, or if you have any questions about anything, I invite you to address your concerns either on this thread or on the etiquette thread, itself.

I will continue to expand the guidelines from time-to-time as I am able.]]> <![CDATA[Greetings from a Traveller]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5783 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:08:16 -0700 King of Gotzborg http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5783
It says at the top of the forum beside my username that I last logged in January 21st, 2007......quite a stretch if I may say. I can't quite recall the last time I posted here, without doing some sort of search. And no, this isn't some other chap who happened to figure out the password for an old username. smilie

Anyhow, greetings to my fellows and brothers (and sisters?) of Hanover. Life works in mysterious ways and here I was sitting at my computer when all of a sudden this thought of Hanover popped into the mind. With a curious desire to see what was what, here I am! Surprised to see my login still worked.

My compliments and deepest regards to King James II on your ascension to the throne of Hanover. You were without a doubt the most groomed future King in history I think. Congratulations.

I did get an email about the whole thing and sent an email off however received no reply, so I assume it got lost in the post. I guess a wax seal doesn't count for much these days with the Postmasters.

I am eager to hear how things are and how everyone is keeping?

Regards,

AC]]>
It says at the top of the forum beside my username that I last logged in January 21st, 2007......quite a stretch if I may say. I can't quite recall the last time I posted here, without doing some sort of search. And no, this isn't some other chap who happened to figure out the password for an old username. smilie

Anyhow, greetings to my fellows and brothers (and sisters?) of Hanover. Life works in mysterious ways and here I was sitting at my computer when all of a sudden this thought of Hanover popped into the mind. With a curious desire to see what was what, here I am! Surprised to see my login still worked.

My compliments and deepest regards to King James II on your ascension to the throne of Hanover. You were without a doubt the most groomed future King in history I think. Congratulations.

I did get an email about the whole thing and sent an email off however received no reply, so I assume it got lost in the post. I guess a wax seal doesn't count for much these days with the Postmasters.

I am eager to hear how things are and how everyone is keeping?

Regards,

AC]]> <![CDATA[The Queen's Xmas Address]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5782 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 18:06:48 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5782
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9q44CYHdj...re=related]]>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9q44CYHdj...re=related]]> <![CDATA[New Members]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5781 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:31:56 -0700 The Marquess of Mountcastle http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5781 <![CDATA[Monarch Madness!]]> http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5780 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:48:25 -0700 Duke of Gottingen http://www.kingdomofhanover.com/tot/showthread.php?tid=5780 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-...-King.html]]> http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-...-King.html]]>