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Queen Elizabeth II: A Poignant Final Meeting and a Lasting Promise
Former Prime Minister Liz Truss has shared a touching glimpse into the late Queen Elizabeth II's final meeting, revealing a side of the monarch that exemplified her unwavering commitment to duty and her enduring spirit.
As Britain prepares to mark the first anniversary of her passing, this unexpected story has emerged, capturing the hearts of the nation.
It was a crisp September day in 2022 when Liz Truss ventured into the hallowed halls of Balmoral Castle.
Little did she know that this visit would be etched into her memory forever.
Just two days before the Queen's passing, Truss had the privilege of an audience with Her Majesty.
In her usual stoic manner, Queen Elizabeth assured Truss they would be meeting again soon.
This seemingly casual statement took on profound meaning in the days that followed.
Truss chose the platform of GB News to share her recollections, taking us on a journey through those poignant moments.
She recounted how she spoke to the new King Charles on the day of his mother's passing, witnessing his resolute demeanor, a testament to the strength of character inherited from his mother.
The circumstances that led to this historic meeting were unique.
Health concerns prevented Queen Elizabeth from traveling to London, so she extended the invitation to Truss to come to Balmoral Castle.
At 96 years old, the monarch appeared frail but remarkably mentally alert and engaged.
Truss vividly remembered the encounter, emphasizing how the Queen was absolutely on top of the proceedings.
Despite her physical frailty, her indomitable spirit shone through.
She was keen to reassure Truss that they would meet again soon, underlining the importance of this promise.
In those moments, there was no indication that the Queen's health was severely deteriorating.
Truss, being in the early days of her role as Prime Minister, was focused on the myriad responsibilities that lay ahead.
The assumption was that this meeting was the first of many, a continuation of a working relationship built on mutual respect.
The image of the Queen, leaning on a walking stick but wearing a warm smile, welcoming Truss in front of a crackling fire in her sitting room, clad in a blouse, cardigan, and a skirt made from Balmoral tartan, paints a picture of grace and tradition.
Truss couldn't help but admire the Queen's determination to fulfill her duty even as the end drew near.
Their meeting was characterized by an upbeat atmosphere, a testament to the Queen's resilience and unwavering commitment to her role as Sovereign.
However, the turning point came on September 7 when a Privy Council meeting was postponed, indicating a worsening health situation.
Truss described the ominous atmosphere that surrounded them.
By September 8, the reality of the situation had become undeniable, not only for her but for her colleagues as well.
While in the House of Commons chamber for an energy debate on that fateful day, Truss received a note from Nodheim Zahawi, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
Urgently whispered words and a hastily passed note conveyed the gravity of the situation.
Buckingham Palace's initial plan to release a statement regarding the Queen's health at 11.15 a.m. faced delays.
The contents of Zahawi's note contained a statement for Truss to read out to the Commons if necessary.
With the situation growing more serious by the minute, Truss left the chamber and made her way back to Downing Street.
It was there at 12.32 p.m. that the Palace officially announced the Queen was under medical supervision.
The moment of confirmation arrived at around 4.30 p.m. in No.
10 Downing Street.
Truss recalled the somber atmosphere confirming their worst fears.
The Queen, who had reigned for an astonishing 70 years, was no longer with them.
Amidst the sadness, Truss's practical instincts took over.
She knew she had a duty to ensure a smooth transition and to communicate this momentous occasion to the nation.
The Queen had been a constant presence in their lives, and her absence left a void that needed to be addressed.
A pre-arranged statement for a sitting prime minister to read in the event of the monarch's death had been drafted, but Truss decided to rewrite it to convey her personal sentiments.
Collaborating with a speechwriter, she crafted a message that would deeply resonate with the nation.
On the same day, Truss had the privilege of speaking to the new monarch, King Charles.
She offered her sincere condolences and noted his unwavering resolve during their brief phone call.
Both Truss and King Charles were stepping into new roles, and their primary focus was on the practical aspects of governance during this transitional period.
Their first weekly audience on October 12 brought a moment of levity when King Charles greeted Truss with a playful, “back-again, Dear, Oh, Dear.”
Truss clarified that it was their third meeting that day, highlighting the camaraderie that had developed between them.
Liz Truss paid a heartfelt tribute to the late monarch, acknowledging her as a major figure in British history who remained deeply loved and treasured by her people until the end.
The Queen's unwavering commitment to duty and her enduring spirit resonated with the nation.
As we reflect on this final, poignant meeting between Liz Truss and Queen Elizabeth II, we are reminded of a monarch who, even in her twilight years, embodied strength, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her role as the head of state.
The promise of meeting again soon was more than a mere statement.