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turning to page one
The King is propped up in his armchair, wrapped in his favorite faded Tibetan dressing gown. He’s attended by six members of his Privy Council - ARCHBISHOP LANG, LORD DAWSON his personal physician, LORD WIGRAM his private secretary, together with RAMSAY MACDONALD, LORD HAILSHAM and SIR JOHN SIMON. Also present is SIR MAURICE HANKEY, the Clerk to the Council.
The King’s sons and daughter are in attendance. SISTER BLACK his nurse, stands beside the King.
Lord Wigram is reading out the Order for the Council for the State. The King constantly interjects. He is confused and frail.
LORD WIGRAM
... whereas by letters patent under
the Great Seal, bearing date of
Westminster, the eleventh June 1912
his Majesty King George V did
constitute, order and declare that
there should be a guardian, Custos
Regni, in the form of Councillors
of State.
Off King George V’s confusion -
LORD WIGRAM (CONT’D)
It’s the order of the Council for
the State, Sir. So we may act on
your behalf.
Wigram presents a tray with papers and pen.
KING GEORGE V
I’m still confused...
LORD WIGRAM
Approved.
KING GEORGE V
Thank you.
Lord Dawson holds the pen as the King makes his ‘mark’.
NURSE
Feeling a little better Sir?
KING GEORGE V
No. I’m not feeling any better. I
feel dreadful.
Queen Mary enters.
KING GEORGE V (CONT’D)
Have you been skating?
QUEEN MARY
No, George.