State Funeral of George VII Entry 415

Cultural event

That's my take away today. I honestly don't even remember what the Archbishop said.

As Papa's casket started out of the Abbey, God Save the King began. Thank God for Annie. I was about to sing. But they weren't singing about Papa. They were invoking the prayer and anthem for me.

The casket was put on the State Gun Carriage and we started marching. In perfect step. I don't know how. We didn't have a chance to rehearse it. Then again, Gran's funeral was only 14 months so. I'm the 4th monarch in 14 months. What does that say about the state of things.

I followed in step completely alone. Anne was somewhere behind me with Mummy but I was alone.

The Imperial State Crown rested on the casket lid. It was the only time Papa got to wear it.

I shall never get Beethoven's Funeral March Number 1 out of my head. I'll always be haunted by it.

Buckingham Palace is always - imposing. Walking down the Mall toward it behind the casket, it looks even bigger. More frightening.

I was moved to tears as we rounded the Victoria I monument. The entire household staff was there, all of them bowed or curtsied as the casket went past. Then again for me. I'm so lost. I wiped at my eye and I just know I'm going to hear abou tit. When the Marble arch rose up ahead of us, my feeling of dread only grew. Somehow that felt more final.

We marched through the Arch and came to a marching stop. Anne and Mummy walked to the side, joining members of the family who hadn't marched.

When I scanned the side, I saw my family, Rory, and in a row further back dressed full Naval dress, like myself, was Milton.

My resolve failed my shoulder rose and fell with my sobs. I actually wiped again at my eyes. That will no doubt be front page of every newspaper in the nation.

When the hearse pulled up I felt sick, the Marines moved the casket to the hearse and before they closed the door, I went and put my hand on the casket. I was struggling so badly. I wiped my face again and wet to join my family.

When Rory took my hand I gave up the fight. My shoulders heaved and I let out a real sob.

I had to be led to the helicopter to Windsor.

It took forever for the hearse to make it up the Long Walk.

We moved to St. George's Chapel for the last part. The worst part.

When they took the Crown off the casket I heard Anne let out a sigh that almost sounded like a relief.

I had to go up and drape his Camp Colour flag on the head of the casket. And put a small handful of soil on. I kissed the casket and bowed.

The Archbishop said the prayer and then full styles were read as Papa was lowered into the vault. One day I'll join him as will Rory.

Gran told me to be a good king so until that day, I shall do my best.

But now, I can take a day to grieve.