on 16 september 1918 macklin "was presented to his majesty [king george v] by lieut.-general sir henry sclater. the king said to him, 'i understand, mr. mayor, that you have been mayor of the city for five years. i am very grateful to you for the unselfish way in which you have devoted yourself to the services of the city and to myself.' the mayor, acknowledging this gracious remark, said, with becoming modesty: 'i have to thank my colleagues for any success i have had your majesty,' and the king rejoined: 'will you also express my thanks to your colleagues.' his majesty, continuing, said he understood that his troops on [salisbury] plain had been well treated in the way of entertainments and hospitality at salisbury. the mayor assured his majesty that the citizens had been pleased to do everything they could for the troops, and the king graciously added: 'i wish you to thank the citizens for all they have done for the soldiers.' his majesty then expressed good wishes for the mayor's health and said he wished the mayor to convey his message to the citizens."