Hello! As we close in on The Coronation, I’ll be sending some throwback newsletters on a few key moments (so far!) in the reign of King Charles III. First, the moment when I think people really saw him as King.
It was the day after his mother died, seven months ago…
The rain had stopped.
The sun was shining.
And, for the first time in 70 years, a King was about to arrive at Buckingham Palace.
King Charles III returned to London on Friday for the first time as monarch, after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, at her Balmoral home not 24 hours earlier.
Thousands had gathered at the Palace gates to witness his arrival, and the crowd grew as the state limousine carrying the new King and Queen approached.
Then, a surprise…
The car slowed, then came to a stop.
And the new King Charles III stepped out into the sunshine to greet people in person.
No one really knew what to expect…
But, after years of handwringing and doubt about a King Charles and Queen Camilla, the critics were silenced before they could even gear up…
The reaction was immediate - and overwhelming. There was no mistaking that this crowd, supported this King.
People were offering condolences.
Others were kissing his hand. Some women trying to kiss him on the cheek!
Cheers of Hip Hip Hooray.
Cheers of God Save the King.
And then, a spontaneous singing of the new National Anthem:
God save our gracious King!
Long live our Noble King!
God save the King!
Everyone on the ground, and those watching live coverage from home, could suddenly feel it.
The shift had happened.
At this moment, it seemed that Charles, the longest heir in history, fully became King Charles III.
He was gracious, he was kind, he took his time with the grieving crowds. He accepted their condolences — and their support, which they seemed to give wholeheartedly.
Rupert Myers posted on Twitter, what many people were suddenly thinking:
Isn’t this the right Monarch for the Moment, after all?
It is just the beginning for the new King.
Operation Spring Tide will be activated, which is the plan for King Charles III to make a short tour of the country and greet many more people in person. Starting in Scotland, then Northern Ireland, Wales, and back to England.
If this first appearance outside Buckingham Palace is anything to go by, The King will be warmly welcomed, and quickly gain the support of the country as he begins his reign.
Queen Elizabeth II can rest.
The Crown to which she devoted her life, is in good and capable hands.