The Shadow of Great Britain

Chapter 842: Chapter 387 King Arthur Residing in Scotland Yard (6K4)_4

“Brothers, you all know that I am a person who loves reading. I read fairy tales, comics, newspapers, and news, love historical records, and also love fashion novels. In these stories, I have seen many heroic figures who are lofty, great, and like stars hanging in the sky, unparalleled and unreachable.

However, in this turbulent and passionate year of 1832, I suddenly discovered that all true heroes are not like those described in storybooks. There are no heroes in this world, nor does true fearlessness exist. I do not know how to become a hero, but you have taught me what a true knight looks like.

A true knight never lets his fear of death outweigh his sense of honor, never lets fear crush his sense of duty to his country and his innate masculinity. Every one of you here plays such a critical role—when danger occurs, you think of the honor of the nation, the citizens of London, your comrades and partners beside you, rather than just yourself.

Scotland Yard is never a haven for cowards, because even the most timid person will unleash an unprecedented masculine spirit upon arriving here. Yes, no one wants to face death and danger, but this does not mean we will retreat in the face of danger when guarding the law and justice. The Gospel says: You are the salt of the earth. If the salt loses its flavor, how can it be made salty again?

If a person hates peace, how can he keep others at peace? If one befouls his own hands with vile actions, how can he cleanse others of their impurity? We often say that if a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into the pit. People also say that night and day cannot meet, but I am glad that we bear the responsibility of dawn.

If I, Arthur Hastings, this country boy from York, have done anything worth celebrating in my brief life, I must say, I am truly fortunate to have fought alongside the great Scotland Yard in 1832, in this passionate era. The years spent with you are the most beautiful sunny days I have ever experienced in my life.”

Upon saying this, Arthur slowly lifted his hand in salute.

Behind him, there was a sound of decree rustling.

The solemn voice of the Duke of Wellington sounded, as he read the decree aloud.

“I, King William IV, by the Grace of God, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and King of Hanover, hereby declare with this golden seal:

Considering the importance of maintaining public order and stability in my kingdom, especially in my capital London, for the nation’s tranquility and the welfare of its people, the Greater London Police Department was established in 1829. Since its establishment, the Greater London Police Department has fulfilled its duties with fearlessness, wisdom, and justice, effectively combating crime, protecting the innocent, powerfully deterring evil forces, and defending the dignity of the law and social justice.

The professionalism and selfless dedication of the Department have highlighted its outstanding status as a pillar of national security, serving as a model for police institutions. It has not only earned my deep trust but also the universal appreciation of the citizens of London.

Therefore, I have decided to bestow royal honor upon the Greater London Police Department and its personnel to acknowledge their achievements and inspire future loyal and courageous service to my subjects and my kingdom.

Hereby, I decree that:

The Greater London Police Department, from this day forward, shall be officially renamed ‘Royal Greater London Police Department’ and shall bear the ‘Royal’ title to signify my special commendation and royal favor.

All officers and policemen affiliated with the department shall enjoy the prefix ‘Royal’ in their titles. Their ranks are to be adjusted according to royal protocols; ‘Police Chief’ will be changed to ‘Royal Police Chief’, ordinary policemen to ‘Royal Police’, and so on. Their uniforms, badges, and official documents should bear the royal emblem to signify their newly acquired noble honor.

This royal decree not only acknowledges past contributions but also encourages future loyalty and diligence. The Royal Greater London Police Department shall continue to uphold its fine traditions, steadfastly maintain the rule of law, ensure citizens’ safety, prevent internal and external threats, and demonstrate royal authority, thereby consolidating social harmony and perpetuating the prosperity and tranquility of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.

I instruct the Home Secretary and relevant departments to promptly execute the renaming and update of insignias and ensure that the Royal Greater London Police Department and its members fully understand and value this honor, serving with dedication in the name of the royalty, not falling short of my expectations.

May Almighty God continue to bless my Royal Greater London Police Department, granting it wisdom and strength to faithfully protect my territories and subjects under its new glory.

This decree.

At St. James’s Palace,

William IV,

King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, King of Hanover, and Defender of the Christian Faith,

Main Calendar, June 9, 1832.”