Abdication Entry 388

Political event

The other morning documents from government went in a separate dispatch box to Papa.

Grandpapa gave a short television address and that was that.

Anne, Rory and I went straight to Buckingham Palace to do our duty. He immediately named Anne Princess Royal, an honour and title reserved for the daughter of a Monarch - the eldest daughter. He then made Rory Duke of Edinburgh. Yes that was Greatpapa's duchy, but the Duke of Edinburgh isn't a hereditary dukedom, it is bestowed at the selection of the monarch. Papa felt it right. I'm glad he did. Naturally, despite my protests, Papa has named me Prince of Wales.

Papa took the regnal name of George, making him George VIII.

I now have to give real thought to a regnal name myself. When I was younger, I liked Arthur. Now that I actually need to think about it, I don't know. Everything changes now.

Immediately after handing out titles, it was time for the senior family to greet the British people.

Growing up, whenever I had to go out on the Balcony I would hide behind Papa or hold Gran's hand. That wasn't an option this time. I stood with my mum and sister waving until Papa directed Rory to come out too. I think my family really does love him. I took his hand and went to wave again, "accidentally" lifting both hands for all the world to see.

The crowd roared in cheers as if all of Britain had been rooting for us. The crowd started chanting 'we want the King.' And Papa rather reluctantly joined us. He was clearly anxious but he smiled and waved.

We were out there for at least 45 minutes before we finally went back in.

We said our goodbyes, bowing and differing to our new king.

Rory and I went back to our home because that's what it is, ours. I was - am exhausted. We're ready to put this day to bed.