On February 11,1982 The British Institute of Radiology received its greatest honour, when Her Majesty the Queen graciously visited us. She came, as Patron, to open our new home at 36 Portland Place, but her visit was far mbre than the unveiling of a plaque: with characteristic generosity of interest, she examined and commented on almost every part of the refurbished house and commended it. It certainly did look elegantly splendid as well as functional and that was the main theme of our President's remarks in showing her around the building. The readiness with which Her Majesty discussed the modern scientific and historical exhibits prepared for her was evidence of her wide understanding of the aims of science in medicine and her informal and relaxed conversation during tea showed us how well she appreciates the financial pressures under which the Health Service and medical research try now to operate. We all felt that our Patron was our appreciative and encouraging leader. A letter (reproduced here) received the next day from Sir Philip Moore, her Private Secretary, will be treasured by succeeding generations.