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APPENDIX VIII. REPLY FROM HIS MAJESTY THE KING TO THE ADDRESS FROM THE CONFERENCE. It is with much satisfaction that I have received from the members of the Imperial Conference, on the close of their labours, an Address assuring me of their loyal devotion to myself and to the Throne. Still more am I gratified by their expressed conviction that the Crown is the important link uniting together in cohesion and strength the component parts of our great Empire. I have experienced stirring and ineffaceable proofs of these sentiments in the enthusiastic and touching receptions invariably given me on the several occasions of my visits to different portions of the world where the British flag flies—proofs which have been renewed in the remarkable demonstrations of welcome and goodwill towards the Prince of Wales in those Dominions and Colonies which he has been able to visit during the past three years. Furthermore, where could one find such ample testimony to their common allegiance to the Empire and its Sovereign than in their noble self-sacrifice during four and a half years of the world war ? I have followed with keen interest the deliberations of the Conference. These meetings, and the exchange of views between the Ministers of the great communities which they represent, upon the many problems affecting the common' interest of the British peoples, are essential to the unity and well-being of the Empire, and to the general peace of the world. Every facility must be given for such periodical meetings, and to ensure this we look confidently to the men of science and research to discover improved means of intercommunication between all parts of the British Commonwealth. I know that the work of the Conference has been strenuous, entailing severe demands, mental and physical, upon all concerned. But their time has been well spent in advancing further along the road of progress and development. I heartily thank them on my own behalf and that of the Queen for their Address. We wish godspeed to those who are leaving England, and a safe and happy return to their respective homes and families. More than ever do we follow with feelings of affection the welfare of our people at home and across the sea. GEORGE R.I. Buckingham Palace, 10th August, 1921.

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