The King's Speech

Both the coronation and the radio broadcast are “a triumph” (132). Logue takes a much-needed vacation, and on his return, helps the King with his various speeches. The King’s workload is beginning to take a toll, and he appears “very drained” (133). Logue believes that “they are very foolish to overwork him” (133). Preparing for an address to Parliament, the heaviness of the crown becomes an issue though the speech is a success. In December, there is a rising expectation that the King will need to deliver a Christmas radio broadcast.

As they prepare, Logue begins to hear rumors that Princess Margaret, now seven-years-old, suffers from the same speech impediment as her father. He encourages the palace to release news footage of the Princess speaking normally so as to silence the rumor. On Christmas Day 1937, Logue catches a train to Norfolk to meet the King. The Royal Family give him a “hearty welcome” (137). After dinner, Logue and the King retire to the study to prepare for the broadcast.

The speech begins. The King begins too fast but then slows. After three minutes and twenty seconds, the speech is finished. Though there are a few errors, Logue congratulates the King.