Once I was a clever boy learning the arts of Oxford... is a quotation from the verses written by Bishop Richard Fleming (c.1385-1431) for his tomb in Lincoln Cathedral. Fleming, the founder of Lincoln College in Oxford, is the subject of my research for a D. Phil., and, like me, a son of the West Riding. I have remarked in the past that I have a deeply meaningful on-going relationship with a dead fifteenth century bishop... it was Fleming who, in effect, enabled me to come to Oxford and to learn its arts, and for that I am immensely grateful.


Thursday 21 June 2012

The Duke of Cambridge at thirty


Today has been the thirtieth birthday of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge.

http://content.answcdn.com/main/content/img/getty/1/0/81036410.jpg


Image: answers.com

I recall very well the day of his birth, although I am not sure if seems in my mind to be more or less than thirty years ago in terms of my own perception.

Those thirty years have not always been easy ones for the Monarchy, and certainly cannot have always been easy ones for the Prince himself.

Nevertheless both he and the institution to which he is heir appear to be in very good form, and he embodies and, so far as can be seen, fulfills many hopes and expectations. I am very happy indeed to express my good wishes to him on this birthday and to give thanks for what he has already achieved and promises for the future.

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