COMMENTARY
THE timing is crucial, the words perfect: no one else on earth commands the respect of the Queen, who speaks to a country and Commonwealth under threat from the worst contagion in 100 years.
Everywhere this broadcast is heard people will listen and take note of a monarch of 68 years approaching her 94th birthday.
No politician can match her influence in persuading millions to find strength and patience in defeating this silent, stealthy killer.
With Prince Philip, 98, she is back where she was during the Second World War – in Windsor Castle where she and her sister spent years in isolation while their brave parents Georgevi and Queen Elizabeth remained at Buckingham Palace.
She remembers her father summoning all his strength to overcome his speech defect to address the nation by radio on the outbreak of war and at its end.
This message is poignant: her son and heir Prince Charles is recovering from coronavirus, but the outcome for thousands is one of tragedy.
While the rest of the royals will no doubt watch the Queen’s speech, will Prince Harry, reportedly in Los Angeles, tune in and reflect on the remarkable granny he left behind?