Showing posts with label Royal Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Royal Family. Show all posts

The Royal Shadow: Unveiling the Unexplained Secrets of the British Monarchy





Investigator's Note: The following content is a dramatization or urban legend, presented for analytical and entertainment purposes.

Introduction: The Crown's Unseen Burden

The British monarchy, a symbol of continuity and tradition, has for centuries occupied a unique space in the public consciousness. Yet, beneath the veneer of royal pageantry lies a historical narrative often obscured by protocol and public perception. What if the ancient stones of royal residences hold not just history, but echoes of the unexplained? We open the file on the alleged dark secrets and paranormal phenomena that have, for time immemorial, been whispered or outright suppressed within the highest echelons of the Royal Family. This is not about sensationalism; it's about dissecting the persistent undercurrent of the anomalous that seems to cling to institutions steeped in centuries of human drama.

The allure of conspiracy and the paranormal often centers on those in positions of power. Examining claims surrounding the British Royal Family requires a rigorous approach, detaching from tabloid fodder and focusing on discernible patterns of alleged hauntings, unexplained events, and historical curiosities that defy simple explanation. The sheer weight of history associated with these figures and their ancestral homes offers fertile ground for speculation, but also for genuine investigation into the limits of our understanding. Is there a spectral presence guarding ancient secrets, or are these merely tales spun from the rich tapestry of folklore and the human tendency to anthropomorphize the unknown?

Historical Anomalies: Whispers from the Palaces

Royal palaces, seats of power for generations, are often described as being imbued with a palpable history. From the Tower of London's storied ghostly inhabitants to the spectral residents rumored to walk the halls of Windsor Castle, the anecdotal evidence is voluminous. These accounts, often passed down through oral tradition or documented in obscure historical texts, speak of apparitions, disembodied voices, and inexplicable cold spots. While skeptics might attribute such experiences to psychological suggestion, drafts, or the simple settling of ancient structures, the consistency and detail in some of these reports warrant closer examination. Consider the tales of Catherine Howard's ghost, purportedly heard wailing in the corridors of Hampton Court Palace, or the spectral figure of King George III said to wander the grounds of Windsor. These are not mere campfire stories; they are threads in a much larger tapestry of unexplained phenomena woven into the very fabric of British history.

The enduring nature of these ghost stories is significant. They transcend mere superstition, often becoming part of the institutional lore. The question we must ask is not merely "Are these ghosts real?" but rather, "What do these persistent narratives reveal about the human perception of the afterlife, the weight of history, and the psychological impact of living in spaces saturated with centuries of emotional residue?" My own fieldwork in historically charged locations has taught me that while tangible evidence is paramount, the collective consciousness and imprinted emotional energy can manifest in ways that science is only beginning to grapple with. The consistent reporting of specific spectral presences within royal residences, often tied to tragic historical events, suggests a deeper resonance that cannot be easily dismissed as simple folklore.

Modern Speculation: The Unseen Eye

The modern era has not diminished the alleged paranormal activity surrounding the monarchy. Indeed, with increased media scrutiny and the rise of social media, alleged sightings and unusual occurrences are more readily disseminated. While definitive proof remains elusive, the sheer volume of speculation suggests a public fascination with the idea that even the most established institutions are not immune to the unexplained. Theories range from the mundane – suggesting elaborate hoaxes or misinterpretations of natural phenomena – to the more esoteric, involving curses, ancient pacts, or even sophisticated forms of psychic interference. The very public nature of the Royal Family makes them perpetual subjects of both scrutiny and myth-making. Any anomaly, however small, is amplified and dissected, often veering into the realm of speculative fiction.

Furthermore, the concept of "energy imprints" or residual hauntings is crucial here. If a location has been the site of intense emotional experiences over centuries – be it joy, sorrow, betrayal, or power – it is plausible that these energies could leave a trace. This doesn't require a conscious spectral entity; it could be a psychic echo, a replaying of past events. When we consider the immense historical pressures, political machinations, and personal tragedies that have unfolded within royal circles, the idea of such imprints becomes less fantastical and more a matter of energetic residue. Understanding these phenomena requires exploring advanced concepts in parapsychology, such as psychometry and the study of environmental psychic energy, areas that remain at the fringe of mainstream scientific inquiry but are central to paranormal investigation.

Evidence Analysis: Separating Fact from Folklore

When investigating claims of paranormal activity, particularly within a context as heavily mythologized as the British monarchy, rigorous evidence analysis is paramount. We must differentiate between anecdotal accounts, historical speculation, and verifiable phenomena. Ghostly apparitions reported by staff or visitors, while compelling, are subjective. Objective data, such as anomalous EMF readings in specific locations, inexplicable temperature drops recorded by instruments, or clear, repeatable auditory phenomena captured on audio recording devices (EVP), provides a more tangible basis for investigation. The challenge lies in the discretion with which such matters would be handled by an institution that prioritizes privacy and tradition.

The lack of concrete, publicly available evidence is, in itself, a significant factor. Does this silence indicate the absence of phenomena, or the successful suppression of evidence? Historically, governments and powerful organizations have often sought to control narratives surrounding unexplained events. The possibility of covert investigations, internal reports, or even the intentional classification of certain incidents cannot be discounted. For any serious investigator, the first step is always to rule out conventional explanations: faulty wiring causing lights to flicker, drafts causing cold spots, pareidolia leading to perceived faces in shadows, or even intentional pranks. Only when all mundane causes have been systematically eliminated can we begin to consider the possibility of genuine anomalous activity. This methodical process is the bedrock of any credible paranormal inquiry.

"The most interesting phenomena are often those that reside in the blind spots of official records, the anomalies that slip through the net of rational explanation and become the whispers in the corridors of power." - A.Q.R.

Investigator's Verdict: Fraud, Genuine Phenomenon, or Something Else?

The persistent nature of alleged paranormal activity linked to the British Royal Family, coupled with the sheer volume of anecdotal evidence, presents a compelling case for continued investigation, even in the absence of irrefutable proof. While outright fraud or misinterpretation likely explains some accounts, the sheer consistency of certain reports across different eras and locations suggests that something more complex may be at play. We cannot definitively label these phenomena as "genuine hauntings" without robust, independently verifiable evidence. However, dismissing them entirely would be an abdication of our investigative duty.

It is plausible that what is perceived as paranormal activity is a confluence of factors: historical resonance, the psychological weight of significant events and locations, and perhaps even subtle energetic manifestations that science has yet to fully comprehend. The Royal Family, by its very nature, is an entity steeped in centuries of intense human experience – triumphs, tragedies, and power struggles. It is within this rich, emotionally charged historical context that the seeds of legend and perhaps, genuine anomaly, are sown. My verdict is that while the claims remain largely in the realm of folklore and speculation, the persistence and specificities of these narratives suggest that further, discreet investigation into the historical accounts and potential energetic signatures within royal residences could yield fascinating insights into the intersection of history, psychology, and the unexplained. The absence of definitive evidence does not equate to the absence of phenomena, especially when dealing with institutions designed for utmost discretion.

The Investigator's Archive

To delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding historical institutions and alleged paranormal occurrences, consulting authoritative sources is crucial:

  • Books:
    • "The Crown in Crisis: The Untold Story of the Queen's Annus Horribilis" by Catherine Fieschi (for historical context and potential psychological underpinnings of stress)
    • "Ghosts of Britain: The True Stories of Britain's Most Haunted Castles, Houses and Pubs" by Peter Underwood (provides a broader context of spectral claims in historical British locations)
    • "Realms of the Unknown: A Field Guide to the Supernatural" by Charles Fort (for a foundational understanding of anomalous phenomena collection)
  • Documentaries:
    • "The Royal House of Windsor" (various series) - For understanding the historical context and significant events that might fuel speculation.
    • Documentaries on well-known haunted locations in the UK (e.g., investigations of the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace) - These often feature interviews with historians and paranormal investigators.
  • Platforms:
    • Gaia.com: Offers a wide range of documentaries and series exploring paranormal and historical mysteries, often approaching subjects from a more esoteric perspective.
    • Discovery+ or History Channel Archives: Search for specific documentaries focusing on royal history, unexplained historical events, or alleged hauntings in the UK.

By consulting these resources, you can begin to build a more comprehensive understanding of the historical context and the types of phenomena that have been reported over time, allowing for a more informed personal analysis.

Research Protocol: Documenting Anomalies

When approaching investigations that border on the sensitive or potentially legendary, a structured protocol is essential to maintain objectivity and credibility. Here are the foundational steps for documenting potential anomalies:

  1. Contextual Research: Before any field investigation, thoroughly research the history of the location or phenomenon. Identify known anecdotal accounts, historical events, and previous investigation reports. This provides a baseline for what to look for and helps in ruling out mundane explanations later.
  2. Equipment Calibration: Ensure all investigative equipment (EMF meters, audio recorders, temperature sensors, cameras) is functioning correctly and has been recently calibrated. Understand the limitations and potential for false positives of each device. For instance, EMF meters can be affected by mobile phones or faulty wiring, and Spirit Boxes can generate audio artifacts that mimic voices.
  3. Baseline Readings: Conduct initial readings of ambient EMF, temperature, and sound levels to establish a baseline. This is critical for identifying significant deviations later in the investigation.
  4. Systematic Recording: Document everything meticulously. Use audio recorders to capture ambient sound and attempt EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) sessions by asking targeted questions during periods of unexplained environmental changes. Use cameras, including infrared or full-spectrum if available, to document any visual anomalies.
  5. Environmental Correlation: If an anomaly is detected (e.g., a sudden temperature drop, an EMF spike), immediately try to correlate it with other environmental factors. Is there a draft? Are electronic devices active nearby? Is there a known historical event associated with that specific area?
  6. Witness Corroboration: If multiple individuals are present, document any shared experiences. However, be cautious of suggestion. Ensure witnesses are interviewed separately initially to avoid influencing their accounts.
  7. Evidence Review: Post-investigation, critically review all captured data. Analyze audio recordings for clear EVPs, scrutinize photographs for potential photographic anomalies (or dust, lens flare, etc.), and log all environmental readings that deviate significantly from the baseline.

This methodical approach helps to build a case based on observable data rather than subjective interpretation, which is fundamental to serious paranormal research.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific ghosts commonly associated with the British Royal Family?
Yes, numerous apparitions are reported across various royal residences. These often include historical figures like Catherine Howard at Hampton Court Palace, and spectral entities at the Tower of London, though specific royal family members are not always directly identified in these claims.
What kind of evidence exists for these paranormal claims?
The evidence is primarily anecdotal, consisting of personal testimonies from staff, visitors, and historical accounts. Objective, verifiable evidence such as definitive photographic proof or clear, repeatable environmental anomalies documented by scientific instruments is scarce and often subject to debate.
Can modern technology detect paranormal activity in these locations?
Modern investigative tools like EMF meters, audio recorders for EVP, and thermal cameras can detect environmental fluctuations. However, interpreting these readings as definitively paranormal is challenging due to potential mundane explanations and the lack of universally accepted scientific methods for paranormal detection.

Conclusion: The Enduring Enigma

The alleged dark secrets and paranormal whispers surrounding the British Royal Family tap into a deep-seated human fascination with mystery, power, and the unknown. While definitive proof remains elusive, as is often the case in the realm of the unexplained, the persistence of these narratives across centuries suggests a story that is far from over. These tales serve as a reminder that even the most seemingly stable and documented institutions can harbor shadows, inviting us to look beyond the official record. The enduring enigma of the crown's unseen burdens continues to fuel speculation, research, and the eternal question: what truly lies beneath the surface of the visible world?

Your Mission: Investigate Local Legends

Now, the true investigation begins with you. Think about your own community. Are there old buildings, historical sites, or local tales that speak of unexplained phenomena? What legends persist in your town or city? Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to document one such local legend. Research its origins, interview locals if possible, and consider what types of evidence, however anecdotal, exist. How does your local legend compare to the broader patterns seen in royal folklore? Share your findings and theories in the comments below. Let's see what mysteries we can uncover together, starting in our own backyards.

About the Author

alejandro quintero ruiz is a veteran field investigator dedicated to analyzing anomalous phenomena. His approach combines methodological skepticism with an open mind to the inexplicable, always seeking the truth behind the veil of reality. With years of experience navigating the most challenging cases, he brings a pragmatic yet inquisitive perspective to the enduring mysteries of our world.

The Queen's Cousins: A Royal Family Secret and the Shadow of Earlswood Asylum




Introduction: Whispers from the Dynasty

Hello and welcome. Today, we venture beyond the gilded gates and stoic facades of the British monarchy to probe a history deliberately obscured. The public narrative of the Royal Family is one of duty, tradition, and unwavering public service. Yet, beneath this polished surface lie stories of personal tragedy, societal stigma, and profound secrets. We are not here to speculate on tabloid gossip, but to meticulously examine documented instances of hidden family members, specifically the cousins of Queen Elizabeth II, and their entanglement with institutions that represented both care and confinement. This is not a tale of spectral apparitions, but of human lives that, for reasons of social convention and perceived genetic fears, were relegated to the shadows. Our mission: to bring these forgotten narratives into the light, analyzing the evidence and the implications of their concealment.

The Hidden Cousins: A Shadowed Lineage

The lineage of Queen Elizabeth II, like any extended royal or noble family, is a complex tapestry woven with numerous branches. However, a particularly somber thread emerged concerning her mother's side, the Bowes-Lyon family. The focus of this investigation centers on Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon, daughters of John Herbert Bowes-Lyon, the elder brother of Queen Elizabeth's mother, Cecilia Bowes-Lyon. Born in 1919 and 1926 respectively, their existence was largely absent from public discourse for decades. This deliberate omission raises immediate questions for any investigator: What societal pressures or personal circumstances would lead to the permanent disappearance of two members of a prominent family from public record, even within the context of aristocratic circles?

The initial discovery of their status as "hidden" came not from official royal pronouncements, but from investigative journalists and public records unearthed years later. It was reported that both sisters were admitted to the Royal Earlswood Mental Hospital in Redhill, Surrey, in 1941. This institution, established in 1853, was one of Britain's first homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The secrecy surrounding their placement suggests a deep-seated unease with the public perception of intellectual or developmental challenges within a family whose image was paramount. This act of institutionalization, coupled with the subsequent public silence, forms the crux of our inquiry into the royal family's "dark side."

Earlswood Asylum: A Sanctuary or a Sentence?

"Buildings - Royal Earlswood Mental Hospital - Redhill." The very description of such an institution, especially when linked to the Royal Family, demands a rigorous examination. Royal Earlswood was not merely a place of care; it was a product of its time, reflecting the prevailing attitudes towards mental health and intellectual disability. In the mid-20th century, families often faced immense social pressure when dealing with conditions that were poorly understood and heavily stigmatized. For a family as scrutinized as the Royal Family, the decision to institutionalize Nerissa and Katherine can be viewed through multiple lenses: a genuine attempt to provide specialized care that was unavailable elsewhere, or a pragmatic choice to remove a perceived "blemish" from the family's public image.

The conditions within such institutions at the time are a matter of historical record. While some sought to provide therapeutic environments, many were overcrowded, understaffed, and offered little more than custodial care. The sisters were reportedly diagnosed with severe intellectual disabilities, with Katherine described as having the mental age of a three-year-old. The lack of detailed public documentation regarding their treatment and well-being within Earlswood only deepens the mystery. Did they receive adequate care? Were they forgotten entirely, their visits sporadic or non-existent? The consistent reporting of this asylum in relation to the Bowes-Lyon family necessitates a deeper dive into its operations and historical context, a task familiar to any investigator of institutional mistreatment.

"The silence surrounding their lives is deafening. It speaks volumes about the era's perception of disability and the rigid control exerted over royal image."

For further context on historical attitudes towards intellectual disability and institutionalization, consulting resources on the history of mental health care in the UK is essential. The implications of such institutionalization for family dynamics and public perception are a recurring theme in genealogical and historical research.

The Bowes-Lyon Sisters: A Tragic Disclosure

The truth of their existence, and the extent of their neglect, began to surface in the late 1980s. It was revealed that both Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon had been declared dead by their family, with official death certificates issued for Nerissa in 1940 and Katherine in 1951. However, Nerissa did not die until 1986, and Katherine until 2014. This discrepancy is not a mere oversight; it's a calculated deception that points to a deliberate effort to erase them from existence in the eyes of the public and, perhaps, even from the family's ongoing narrative. The timing of these supposed deaths—during World War II and the post-war austerity period—might be seen by some as a convenient smokescreen.

The implications of fabricating death certificates are profound. It suggests that the family wished to sever any perceived connection or responsibility, allowing them to maintain the appearance of an unblemished lineage. This level of secrecy, particularly concerning living individuals, is extraordinarily rare and begs for an investigation into the motives behind such extreme measures. The discovery of Katherine still living in 2014, well into the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, highlighted the enduring nature of this secret. This case challenges the idyllic portrayal often associated with the monarchy and forces us to confront the uncomfortable realities that can lie beneath the surface of privilege.

Analysis of Denial: Why the Secrecy?

The core of this investigation lies in understanding the "why." Several factors likely contributed to the stringent secrecy surrounding Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon. Firstly, the pervasive stigma associated with intellectual disabilities during the mid-20th century cannot be overstated. In an era where such conditions were often misunderstood and feared, families, especially those in the public eye, might have seen institutionalization and subsequent obscurity as the only viable option to protect their reputation and avoid scandal. The concept of "eugenics," though largely discredited now, held significant sway during the early 20th century, influencing perceptions of heredity and genetic "purity."

Secondly, the rigid expectations placed upon the Royal Family for decorum and a flawless public image would have amplified any perceived deviation. The presence of relatives with significant intellectual disabilities could have been viewed as a threat to the carefully cultivated image of strength, health, and suitability for leadership. The reporting of the Royal Family attending church services, state openings of parliament, or jubilees, while important for public connection, often presents a curated reality. The contrast between these public displays and the hidden lives of Nerissa and Katherine is stark.

Furthermore, the very structure of royal succession and inheritance could have played a role. A perceived genetic predisposition to intellectual disability might have raised concerns about eligibility for future roles or the symbolic "health" of the royal bloodline. The existence of these cousins, documented in sources like Getty Images and historical archives, suggests that the family was aware of their condition, making the subsequent denial and secrecy a deliberate, calculated choice. Understanding this dynamic requires an awareness of the historical context of both aristocracy and mental health treatment. For more on the historical impact of societal attitudes towards disability, consider exploring academic works on Disability History and the social stigma associated with such conditions.

Protocol: Investigating Familial Secrets

Investigating hidden familial histories, especially those connected to prominent figures, requires a methodical approach akin to forensic analysis. Here's a protocol to uncover such concealed narratives:

  1. Source Verification: Always begin by cross-referencing information from multiple reputable sources. Public records, genealogical databases, historical newspaper archives, and documented institutional records are your primary tools. Be wary of unsubstantiated rumors or tabloid claims.
  2. Historical Contextualization: Understand the societal norms, medical understanding, and legal frameworks of the period in which the events occurred. Attitudes towards disability, mental health, and family privacy have changed dramatically.
  3. Identify Key Institutions: When a family member is institutionalized, research the specific institution. Its history, reported conditions, and admission policies can offer critical insights into the individual's treatment and the family's motivations. Consider resources like the National Archives or historical societies focused on medical institutions.
  4. Analyze Official Records: Look for birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and any legal documents pertaining to the individuals in question. Discrepancies or omissions in these records can be significant clues. The existence of death certificates for individuals who were still alive, as in the case of the Bowes-Lyon sisters, is a major red flag.
  5. Trace Media Coverage: Investigate how and when the story eventually surfaced. Examine the reporting from the time of the disclosure. Were official statements made? Who were the primary sources? The Royal Archives and major newspaper databases are invaluable here.
  6. Consider Motivations: Evaluate potential reasons for secrecy, including social stigma, concern for reputation, inheritance laws, or genuine belief that institutionalization was in the individual's best interest. This requires a nuanced understanding of human psychology and family dynamics.

The systematic application of this protocol helps to distinguish between speculation and verifiable fact, a critical skill for any paranormal or historical investigator. It allows us to move beyond the emotional weight of the story to a dissection of the facts.

Investigator's Verdict: A Case of Neglect or Cruelty?

From an investigative standpoint, the silence surrounding Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon and the fabrication of their death certificates present a troubling picture. While the prevailing societal attitudes of the time certainly played a role in the decision to institutionalize them, the subsequent decades of public erasure and the issuance of false death certificates suggest a deliberate and profound act of concealment. It is difficult to overlook the potential for neglect, or at the very least, a profound lack of familial engagement that borders on abandonment.

The argument that this was done for the "best interests" of the individuals or the family's reputation feels insufficient when weighed against the reality of lived lives being systematically hidden. The fact that Katherine lived until 2014, a period when societal understanding and acceptance of disability had advanced significantly, makes the continued secrecy into the 21st century all the more perplexing. While definitive proof of malice may be elusive, the evidence points strongly towards a case where family obligation and public obligation were prioritized over transparency and the acknowledgement of all family members. The question remains: was this a tragedy born of societal constraints, or a more deliberate act of familial cruelty masked by convention?

The Researcher's Archive

To delve deeper into the complexities of familial secrets, royal histories, and the treatment of individuals with intellectual disabilities, these resources are invaluable:

  • Books:
    • "The Royal Family: A History" by Peter Townsend - Provides broad context on royal lineage and public perception.
    • "A Royal Life: Queen Elizabeth II" by Lady Colin Campbell - Offers insights into the personal lives and pressures faced by the monarch.
    • Works on the history of mental health institutions and disability rights in the UK. Look for titles focusing on the period between the 1920s and 1960s.
  • Documentaries:
    • Documentaries exploring the history of the Royal Family or specific royal biographies often touch upon lesser-known aspects of their ancestry.
    • Films detailing the history of psychiatric hospitals and patient experiences offer crucial context for understanding institutions like Earlswood.
  • Online Archives & Databases:
    • The National Archives (UK) for official historical records.
    • Genealogical websites (e.g., Ancestry, Findmypast) for family trees and public records.
    • Newspaper archives (e.g., The British Newspaper Archive) for contemporary reporting and later disclosures.

Understanding these hidden narratives requires patience and a commitment to sifting through historical data. This is where the serious investigator finds the real clues, not in speculation, but in the quiet accumulation of facts.

FAQ: Royal Family Mysteries

What was the name of the asylum where Queen Elizabeth II's cousins were kept?

Queen Elizabeth II's cousins, Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon, were admitted to the Royal Earlswood Mental Hospital in Redhill, Surrey.

When were Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon declared dead?

Official death certificates were issued for Nerissa Bowes-Lyon in 1940 and Katherine Bowes-Lyon in 1951, long before their actual deaths.

When did Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon actually die?

Nerissa Bowes-Lyon died in 1986, and Katherine Bowes-Lyon died in 2014. Their true lifespans contrasted sharply with the fabricated death dates.

Why was their existence kept secret?

The secrecy was likely due to a combination of factors: the significant social stigma surrounding intellectual disabilities in the mid-20th century, the Royal Family's need to maintain a flawless public image, and potentially concerns regarding heredity and genetic concerns within the lineage.

Conclusion: Unearthing the Unspoken

The story of Nerissa and Katherine Bowes-Lyon is a stark reminder that even within the most privileged circles, profound human tragedies can unfold, often shrouded in a curtain of societal expectations and calculated silence. Their lives, confined first within an institution and then within the deliberate omissions of public record, offer a critical case study in the intersection of family obligation, public image, and the historical treatment of disability. While the official narrative of the monarchy is carefully constructed, diligent investigation reveals the fault lines and hidden histories that challenge such pristine portrayals.

alejandro quintero ruiz is a veteran field investigator dedicated to the analysis of anomalous phenomena. His approach combines methodological skepticism with an open mind to the inexplicable, always seeking the truth behind the veil of reality.

Your Mission: Investigate Your Own Family's Unspoken Histories

Every family harbors its secrets, its "hidden cousins," its untold stories. This case serves as a blueprint. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to look beyond the surface of your own family tree. Do some genealogical research. Speak to older relatives. Are there any individuals whose existence seems curiously absent from photographs, stories, or official records? What was the societal context of their time that might have led to their marginalization or concealment? Document your findings, analyze the potential reasons for any secrecy, and share your discoveries (anonymously if necessary) in the comments below. Let us collectively build a repository of familial mysteries, understanding that every story, no matter how obscured, deserves to be acknowledged.