been a bit of flak. But as Winston Churchill wrote, it is exhilarating to be shot at without success. Many changes have taken place during my period of office, which spanned the Handover from Britain to China, entering the New Millennium and our RAS 40th Anniversary. Through the efforts of many the Branch, which is much more complex now than it was when I took over, is strong and of good heart. May I thank you again for your unfailing support and friendship. I know you will show the same measure of support to our new President.
I conclude by quoting a translation of one of my favourite Chinese poems:
DAN WATERS
President
Dry vines, old trees, evening crows - Small bridge, flat bank, water flows - Old road, slim horse, west wind blows - And as the sun westward sets, Forlorn love, far away, no one knows!
A GREAT YUAN DRAMATIST
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