The Duke of Kent

Southland Times, Issue 24833, 27 August 1942, Page 4

The Duke of Kent

THE untimely death of the Duke of Kent is sad news for the British Commonwealth. King George’s youngest brother had established himself firmly in the affections of the people. His attractive personality needed no artificial support: he was at all times his own best advocate in his relations with the general public. Like every other member of the Royal family, he worked strenuously and unpretentiously. The tasks of royalty are more exacting than is generally realized, making endless demands on the qualities of tact, patience and gooff humour. In the strong light which surrounds a prince of the blood the Duke of Kent showed always to advantage. His marriage was a Royal romance which introduced a charming princess to the British people, at the same time strengthening their relations with a small country that has proved itself worthy of its noble history. The sacrifices of Greece had an added poignancy for a public that had taken a deep personal interest in the wife and children of the Duke of Kent. It had been announced, before the outbreak of war, that the Duke was to become the Governor-General of Australia. The possibility that the King’s brother would visit this country was discussed hopefully. But war was too big an interruption. The Duke of Kent remained in England to serve his country, and to participate in the dangers and efforts of three hard years. He died on active service—not in battle, but on one of the innumerable and exacting tasks that help to build up the technical framework of victory. The King will mourn the loss of a brother. War makes no distinctions of rank and class. Buckingham Palace has been bombed, and now it feels a part of that shadow which rests upon so many homes throughout the Empire. British people will deeply regret the loss of a prince who stood close to the throne. They will think of him as a man who served them unselfishly in peace and war, a man whose claims to remembrance can be found in himself as well as in his high rank. The throne has never been stronger. But it will receive an additional strength from the unity that dwells in sorrow.