As Chancellor of the University of Oxford I count it a high 
      distinction to be charged with the duty that falls to me today.
 
      
 
 
Even were this an ordinary occasion, I should feel just pride 
      in being empowered to act on behalf of my University in such 
      a ceremony. The exceptional character of this Convocation makes 
      me the more conscious of my privilege.
 
      
 
 
I am about to confer on the Head of the State to which, as 
      representative of my own Sovereign, I am accredited, the highest 
      distinction which my University has to offer - an act which, 
      while honouring him, honours still more my own Society. And, 
      through the gracious courtesy of the authorities of Harvard University, 
      I do this in circumstances which almost permit me to feel that 
      I am upon my native soil of Oxford.
 
      
 
 
That which would be always a significant act, draws deeper 
      meaning from the times. As my Vice-Chancellor has well said, 
      a University exists to promote that unfettered search for truth 
      which is only possible for those whose are free. And it is because 
      my University, Mr. President, has seen in you the undaunted champion 
      of this freedom, which it has wished to pay to you this tribute. 
      Bodies and souls
 
      
 
 
By word and deed you have never ceased sed has constantly 
      brought new inspiration to my countrymento show the quality of 
      your faith in those moral and spiritual forces which alone can 
      give dignity to human life, and which are now being so savagely 
      assailed. That faith, so nobly express, who stand in this hour