A new book by royal biographer Robert Hardman will share fresh information about Queen Elizabeth's last moments. A memo written by the Queen's private secretary, Sir Edward Young, will be shared in the book. Young was present at the time of the Queen's passing. The upcoming book will reveal details of what happened before the passing.
According to the previously unseen memo in the Royal Archives, the Queen's final moments were very peaceful. She slipped away in her sleep due to old age without being aware of anything and experiencing no pain, as noted by Young.
Following the writing of the note, the biography shares details about a footman bringing a locked red box found at the late Queen's deathbed. Inside this box were two letters, one addressed to King Charles and the other to Sir Edward himself. These letters, containing private messages, are unlikely to be released to the public. The box also held her selections for the Order of Merit, recognizing exceptional service across the Commonwealth.
Even in her final moments, the Queen exhibited her unwavering commitment to duty by attending to official matters. The book poignantly notes, 'Even on her deathbed, there had been work to do. And she had done it.'
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The article also reveals that despite concerns about the Queen's well-being, her death occurred abruptly, prompting King Charles (then Prince Charles) to board a helicopter for an eleven-hour journey to Balmoral hastily. On the way, he read his prepared protocol notes for the aftermath of her death, known as the "London Bridge" notes.
According to the book, King Charles and Queen Camilla spent a private hour with the Queen at her bedside before passing. Princess Anne, Angela Kelly (the Queen's senior dresser and confidante), and the Rev Kenneth MacKenzie, a minister from the nearby Crathie Kirk, took turns by her bedside, providing comfort in her final moments.
The book also details the private moment when Charles learned of his mother's passing and his ascent to the throne. While out gathering mushrooms to clear his mind, he received the news of her death on his way back to Balmoral. This marked the first time he was addressed as 'Your Majesty,' At that moment, he realized his mother had passed away.
Despite attempts to personally inform his younger son, Harry, Charles could not reach him as he was already airborne. The monarch's death was felt globally, most importantly in the United Kingdom, where she reigned for 70 years.
The Queen's passing heavily affected the royal family. On September 29, the Queen had a big funeral at Westminster Abbey, which leaders and royals from around the world attended. A private funeral ceremony at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle came after. Queen Elizabeth was laid down to rest next to Prince Philip, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, and Princess Margaret.
"The Making of a King: King Charles III and the Modern Monarchy" will be released on January 18.
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