The Spectator at war: Loyal toast

From News of the Week, The Spectator, 3 April 1915: THE King has done a big thing, and done it with characteristic modesty and freedom from sensationalism. On Thursday there was published a letter addressed by his private secretary, Lord Stamfordham, to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. “The King,” says Lord Stamfordham, “feels that nothing but the most vigorous measures will successfully cope with the grave situation now existing in our armament factories.” The evidence “without doubt” points to the fact that our inability “to secure the output of war material indispensable to meet the requirements of our Army in the field” is largely due to drink. “The continuance of such a state of things must inevitably result in the pro-longation of the horrors and burdens of this terrible war.” Then comes the King’s practical and personal comment :—

“I am to add that if it he deemed advisable the King will be prepared to set the example by giving up all alcoholic liquor himself and issuing orders against its consumption in the Royal household, so that no difference shall be made so far as His Majesty is concerned between the treatment of rich and poor in this question.”