
“We are such stuff as dreams are made on and our little life is rounded with a sleep.” Thus ends Shakespeare’s play “The Tempest”.
The news of the death of Her Majesty the Queen is both sad and unsettling. Without doubt, during such a long life, she herself faced and, in turn helped many of us face life’s tempests and upsets, with her own still, quiet voice of calm.
Throughout her life and that with her beloved husband and rock, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, wherever they lived and whatever their circumstance she always took the time to thank the innumerable people she met, for their contribution. Her life was irrevocably bound up with what she could do for others and an appreciation of what others gave.
The Queen rarely spoke out but instead weighed her words carefully, often achieving more by saying less. It was her comportment and grace that gave each of us the idea that we should try to do our best, just as she did without fail.
There have been many articles commenting on her wide interests and knowledge and the enormous numbers of world leaders she met who, despite their efforts, seem rather transient in the face of her longevity. Her steadiness of always being here and her experience, was of huge value to them and to us in an unstable and changing world. The creative energy which built and led the commonwealth was hers and her ability to get other countries to walk and talk together represented an enduring style of leadership the like of which is rarely seen.
Living here at Highclere, during any visit or conversation, it was easy to appreciate the Queen’s own love of the countryside. Walking through the fields here with her dogs, you realised her deep intimacy with her own farmland and those who live in the rural world, a knowledge and passion she shared with her husband.
Balmoral gave her such pleasure, with picnics and time with her family, Scotland was part of her DNA. She was Queen of the United Kingdom and every acre and person was of importance to her. She saw there was common ground, values and interests that should make us stronger together.
My own experience of meeting her was entirely due to her long friendship with my father-in-law and mother-in-law throughout their lives and, we were most honoured when she came to both their funerals. Thinking back to relaxed suppers, I can see her smile and hear her voice as I listened and learnt as they discussed horses. She brought joy, interest and kindness into a room and the world is undoubtedly a poorer place without her.
My father-in-law died twenty-one years ago yesterday, speaking briefly to the Queen as he went off by ambulance discussing a horse swishing its tail too much.
The Queen’s sure faith gave her a pillar of strength. To return to Shakespeare “for all the cloud-capp’d towers, the gorgeous palaces, The solemn temples, the great globe itself, Ye all which it inherit, shall dissolve”. Despite the palaces, her leadership was one of morality and the essential substance of what makes us good and kind humans, always offering and appreciating the innumerable small acts of kindness which bring us all together.
She was there in all our songs, in our language, and she still smiles out in all of everyday life, her character the one enduring constant in a restless world.
“Speak through the earthquake, wind, and fire,
O still, small voice of calm.”
Long Live the King.
Well Said!
Very touching, thank you from Australia.
Lady Carnarvon, this is a beautiful tribute to Her Majesty. It is so hard to hold back the tears so I just let them flow. Cheryl
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Again your brilliant and talented writing has captured the essence of Her Majestic Queen Elizabeth II. Having been educated at Oxford in the 70’s and my daughter at KCL in 2009 ( year abroad from UCLA) while expected we are still devastated at the loss of the beloved Queen.
Thank you again for your tribute to a most extraordinary woman.
The best to you and your whole family as you mourn the loss of Queen Elizabeth II.
Long live the King.
Iris Butler
Beautifully written. Thank you
Well said, Cheryl…me, too. A sad week for us all. Thanks, Lady Carnarvon.
All you had to do was say “The Queen” and everyone knew who you were talking about. Rest in Peace Queen. Love live the King. You have some big shoes to fill.
What an exquisite tribute to an amazing lady of dignity and grace. As an American, I never lived under her Monarchy, but I would have been honored to. The news has saddened us greatly, and all of you in the great UK are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for writing straight from the bottom of yours….
The desolation I feel after Queen Elizabeth’s death is impossible to describe – lost, empty, all at sea without a rudder, downright terrified of our future ahead?
She was always there to guide us, wisely, kindly, & with extraordinary grace – regardless of her own problems, of which there were many.
Rest In Peace beautiful Majesty, & Thank You for everything.
I wish you & everyone @ Highclere a safe & successful Autumn dear Lady Carnarvon, God Save The King, yours
Caroline xx
My lady la regina Elisabetta resterà immortale, con lei finisce il 900, auguro a re Carlo III lunga vita sarà un buon sovrano e la regina consorte sarà la sua forza, sua Maestà la Regina vegliera su tutti i suoi cari che ha amato immensamente, per me era e resterà un grande esempio come donna, avrei voluto conoscerla e parlare della sua vita, che riposi in pace col suo amato, Dio vi benedica tutti
Thank you for sharing that- it is a kind of comfort in this unsettling time of change and loss to hear lovely tales of encounters with our late Queen
With love and respect
Xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx
Good Morning,
As being born an American, of British origin, I worked for many years for Rolls Royce Motor Car Co. with my officed in London.
As I have walked through many buildings, corridors that the Royals have, I feel very attached to the Queen, and ALL of there family’s, through Rolls Royce.
It is with much sadness on her passing, and BLESSED to have been part of her close business followships, I send to ALL who were part of her life my heart felt condolences, to a lady, a mother, and one of the GREATEST leaders the world has ever known.
God Save the Queen!
Respectfully Yours,
John L. Roberts
Tonawanda, N.Y. U.S.A
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
I extend my deepest condolences to you and the British people. HM the Queen was a ever present constant in the lives of the British, and may I say the World. As an American, I am sadden by her passing from this World and surprised by the depth of my feelings upon hearing of her death. A familial loss to many.
KRISTINE LILJA-KING
USA
Wonderful words Lady Carnavon.I need say no more..
Very well written. The Queen was a WW II vet in service to great Britain and the crown that existed then. I believe she was a truck mechanic amongst other occupations. My opinion on the 4 best queens in British history were Guinevarre (not sure of spelling), Elizabeth I and II and Victoria. Pray for King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla as this transition of leadership will be difficult. May the Prince and Princess of Wales do their part to support the realm and royalty in preparation of their future reign. Interesting to have a new Prime Minster at the same time at #10 Downing Street. The world is watching Britain and these events as they unfold very closely. Thank You as an interested American.
Sending our sincere condolences to you both, I think our happy memories of the Queen make this time a little easier and we feel very privileged, as you must, to have met and spent time with such a wonderful person.
With love from Jayne & Chris H
Lady Carnarvon,
Such lovely thoughts on the passing of a person to which everyone could learn from and aspire to emulate. I fondly remember seeing the Queen as she left Buckingham Palace taking time to greet the well-wishers. Many of us here in the USA wish nothing but good things for your new King, may the Kingdom prosper and enjoy years of peace under his rule.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you so much for a beautiful heart felt tribute to our glorious late Queen.
As I read it yet more tears rolled down my face I did not know could cry so much. The Queen deserves my tears , she gave so much to us all. Devoting her life to duty, the love of this country, its people and the commonwealth. Who could give more and with such grace and dignity
Our Queen, a great lady may she rest peacefully in God’s care.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and personal memories of the Queen.
I admired and respected Queen Elizabeth II and if I had had the good fortune to be a British citizen, I would proudly call myself a monarchist.
In our ever changing and often turbulent world, I imagine what a comfort and sense of unity the Queen provided to her country and which I will also miss from afar.
My condolences to you and the Earl during this time of national mourning. I feel a loss too.
God bless the Queen. God save King Charles.
Warm regards
Cate Sullivan
Repose in sweet Peace Your Majesty
Thank you for your always beautiful and heartfelt writing, and for your sincere remembrances of a special and indelible lady, the Queen. The world will miss her grace and her steadying hand, and all of America stands with Britain during these dark days.
Like everyone around the world, we have lived through days of sadness and confusing feelings. Our late Queen was unique. My ancestors, being Scottish, came to South America, Peru to build the Port of Callao and then moved to beautiful Valparaiso Port in Chile where they rest in peace in a small cemetery called “the English people place of rest”. So our ties are with Scotland most of all. My son is back to live in Scotland and forming his own family there, with his wife and small child. But there must be some DNA connection in our family, a deep one, with the Queen that has been always there and, as for many people around the world, always present, a notable and reassuring figure to turn to for wisdom and reliance. Not having her any longer with us is, as I said, sad and confusing. It may take a while to accept this new part of history, but she will always remain a part of every person that was lucky enough to actually meet her, like you and your family. We wish also the new King the best path in his life ahead and having had the valuable experience of having grown up with such a wonderful mother. God save the King.
My heart is truly broken because of the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. May she rest in peace. She has been the only monarch on the throne my entire life. I have cried many tears because of her passing, even though I am an American. She was a very special lady, and I truly believe there will never be another queen or king like her. It was so amazing that a rainbow appeared over Buckingham Place after her passing. I will always believe it was God welcoming her to His kingdom.
Oh, what a better world this would be if more people were like her. God Bless You Queen Elizabeth II.
So eloquently said, thank you.
Thank you for your always beautiful and heartfelt writing, in remembrance of a special and indelible lady, the Queen. The world will miss her grace and her steady hand, and I know you will miss your cherished friend. All of America stands with Britain during these sad days.
Lady Carnarvon oh still voice calm
It was very sad about the Queen Elizabeth 2 did you have a nice weekend with lord Carnarvon
Thank you for the email
I lovely to visit highcelere castle and lam fan of Downton abbey
Dear Lady Carnarvon
How lovely of you to share these special photos and memories. What a wonderful legacy our Queen left for us all and more especially your family and I am sure you hold her memories very dearly in your hearts.
May I respectfully ask, the last but one photo of your blog showing, I believe, your Father-in-law and Mother-in-law with HM the Queen…would that have been taken outside what is now known as ‘Grotto Lodge’?
Sending all good wishes to you.
Donna
Yes it is outside Grotto Lodge where we also have a photo of her grandfather HM King Edward VII
Very well said, my sincere condolences on the passing of her majesty to all of England. I have always been a fan of her and the way she carried herself.
Such a fitting synopsis of her caring life and an exemplary tribute.
Good Afternoon Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for this lovely tribute to Her Majesty. As an American, I couldn’t call her my sovereign, but always admired her and felt comfort knowing she was the Queen of a land I too love.
My mother and I wept when we heard the news. The Queen was an incomparable human being. Her goodness is the legacy she leaves behind. May we all strive to honor and strive for it, in her memory.
We send our condolences to you and your husband and all the others who mourn her. King Charles III has our support and best wishes.
Best,
Lynne Froehlich
Scottsdale, AZ
Dear Lady Carnarvon, and family.being the child of British parents, and going to school in England, I always felt that the Queen was my Queen also she was a brilliant and wonderful Monarch, a much loved Mother, Grandmother, and Great grandmother. And will always be such to me. GOD SAVE THE QUEEN, AND GOD SAVE the KING. Desiree CREARY.
As an American, I can honestly say that Queen Elizabeth’s death took me by complete surprise. Somehow, in the back of my mind I thought she’d simply live forever… She was the one leader who somehow stood above all the chaotic gibberish of many of America’s leaders. TBH, I quietly envied you your beloved Queen. It’s wonderful to learn that my own wonderful impressions of your Queen were accurate. Thank you so much for your thoughtful memories of her.
Beautiful reflection, Lady Carnarvon. What an incomparable and inspiring lady Her Majesty was! I was fortunate enough to spend some time in the UK just a few weeks ago, and now in retrospect, am so glad I was there while the Queen was still with us. May she rest in heavenly glory, and God Save the King!
Farewell dear Queen. RIP. Our deepest condolences from the US.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Your beautiful words bring us all some peace and solace at the passing of HRH The Queen, whether we live in the UK, or on the other side of the world. Our heartfelt thoughts are with you and the Earl at the very sad loss of his beloved godmother and treasured family friend. With all best wishes to your family and hers at this time of remembrance.
Thank you for all your kind words
Oh Still small voice of calm.
I can’t think of a better phrase to describe her. I met her just once whilst walking our dogs; didn’t even realise who she was when she showed great interest in our dogs and the show we’d been to. It was only when some corgis ran up that was realised who we were speaking to. NO airs and graces, no expectations, just a lovely lady who loved dogs.
How touching, was this in Scotland, or Windsor?
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
I read your beautiful tribute to Her Majesty with tears in my eyes. As an American, I was somewhat surprised by my very tearful reaction to the news of her death. It was almost as if a member of my own family had died. Queen Elizabeth II was an amazing woman – strong, resilient, dedicated – who led her people with dignity and grace. I admired her so much. As a “dog mama” and horse lover, I felt a personal connection with Her Majesty. May she Rest In Peace, with HRH Prince Philip by her side once again and her beloved Corgis gathered round her feet.
God Save the King.
With deepest condolences…
I have always admired the Queen.
One of the few certainties of this world is missing.
I am saddened with your Family for this sad loss.
Long live the King
Greetings and condolences Lady Carnarvon,
Your Blog this morning is a lovely tribute to the passing of HRH Queen Elizabeth II.
Since her passing so many wonderful tributes to her life and long reign have been playing almost non stop on our various television stations here in the USA. As many of us do also mourn her loss as she even had an impact on us in positive ways across the pond over all her years. What a coincidence her passing occurred close to the date of the passing of your father-in-law & the Peoples Princess Diana. A challenging time for you & Lord Carnarvon & her sons Prince’s William and Harry.
Given how she lived her life daily she was such a role model of grace, endurance, and calm. Hope leaders of today and years going forward keep her characteristics in mind and try to reign and rule via her mannerisms.
Definitely a challenging time going forward for all of you British residents as for the first time in 70 years you are dealing with leadership of a new Prime Minister and a Monarch taking place in the same week. Prayers going out life will “Keep Calm and Carry On” in well ways.
God Bless the Queen and May he hold her in his hands forever.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you so much for your eloquent tribute and personal remembrances of our late Queen. Living in north east Scotland, I went to pay my respects to her on her journey from Balmoral to Edinburgh yesterday and the pavements were thronged with people ( and dogs which I’m sure she would have appreciated!). Walking back home , it felt like the whole town had turned out to bid farewell to her. I was born in the year of her accession and like countless others she has been a constant presence in my life.
I’ve seen the late Queen on a number of occasions but never met her. I was fortunate to be asked to the garden party she gave at Balmoral to mark her Golden Jubilee, when I was honoured to be introduced to the Prince of Wales as he was then, or rather the Duke of Rothesay as he was known in Scotland.
I was fortunate to be invited to another garden party around 20 years ago, this time at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. A door of the Palace opened to near where we were standing and without any formality at all the now Queen Consort, Camilla , emerged with a lady in waiting. She came straight to talk to us and as this was her first public engagement, she seemed understandably a little nervous. However she soon relaxed and I found her to be delightful…engaging and very down to earth. I’m sure she will be an outstanding Queen Consort.
Long Live the King!
I’m so sad wonderful words Lady Carnavon. Nothing else to say.
Thank you Lady Carnarvon. I am heartbroken to have lost our beautiful Queen. As an Australian, I have loved and admired her all of my life. I shall never forget seeing the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh when they visited Sydney in 1963 – I was aged 11 years. I also experienced many of the Silver Jubilee celebrations in London in 1977 which shall remain in my memory forever. All Australians are deeply mourning the Queen’s loss at this very sad time.
Such a lovely tribute, Lady Carnarvon. Thank you for giving us a glimpse of your cherished memories in such beautiful prose.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
I am so incredibly sad for you and your entire country over the loss of your beloved Queen. Even though I am only half British I feel like she is my Queen as well. She was such a guiding light not only for the British Empire but also for the entire world. Her moral compass set a standard that we should all try to emulate.
My heart goes out to you and your countrymen.
Diana Squibb
South Florida USA
Farewell to a dear Queen. RIP. My deepest condolences to you and your family with the loss of your husband’s godmother. It is very personal for you at Highclere, but it is also such a loss for us around the world, as well. Thank you for this lovely tribute.
Simply beautifully said.
God bless her majesty may she rest in peace. God save king Charles.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
A most beautiful tribute. Queen Elizabeth showed us grace beyond measure. I will miss the steadfast, kind, and intelligent leadership each and every day.
Yes, Long Live The King.
And may I add, your wonderful blog always gives me a thinking point and often laughter and insight each Monday morning. Thank you.
Best regards,
Charlotte Merriam Cole
Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for your eloquent and heartfelt words about Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I looked forward last week to read your post, as I knew you would pay her homage.
I’m amazed at the love I felt in my heart last week at King Charles III’s words, and the media graciousness shown to him and particularly to his sons and their wives,
Thank you again for our link to your homeland.
Martha G
You’ve written an encomium truly worthy of this great lady. Your “keep calm and carry on” fortitude this past weekend at Highclere, despite your personal loss, is another example deserving emulation. Our thanks to another worthy woman — you.
Braying jackasses receive the most attention, until you hear a small still voice of calm. A lesson well received.
Well and heartfully spoken. Full of love and respect. The Queen was truly unique.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
You have written a lovely tribute to a remarkable lady.
She was truly amazing in her determination to live a life of service to the people in her realm. She was a role model before the term was invented.
Please accept my condolences on her passing.
I’m an American and I loved and admired her greatly.
King Charles was fortunate to learn from her and I think he will make her proud as King.
A wonderful tribute, beautifully written. It is so sad to realize that Queen Elizabeth is no longer with us with her calming influence. The world is indeed a much sadder place without her. We are all grieving of our loss.
Dear Lady Carnarvon
Thank you for your warm appreciation of our wonderful Queen. Calming words, Lady Carnarvon, to me, not so far away in London. I have found it to be such a sad time. Whilst trying to bear the shock of the Queen’s death, I have experienced feelings of regret and emptiness at this unwanted loss. Her example is simply outstanding, and is behaviour that we will do well to heed.
I was anticipating your Monday’s Blog, somehow knowing that you would convey words that would really comfort. Thank you.
Suzy
SW London, UK.
Lady Carnarvon, eigentlich gibt es ihren Worten über die Queen nichts mehr hinzuzufügen. Sie haben alles wunderbar gesagt. Für mich als Deutsche ohne Monarchie, gab es in meiner Vorstellung trotzdem kein Leben ohne die Queen. Sie war für mich unsterblich, nun eben in Gedanken und dank moderner Technik in Bildern auf meinem Handy. Im Mai habe ich Schloß Balmoral besucht und kann sehr gut verstehen warum man diesen bezauberten Flecken Erde mag. Es gibt so viele Krisen und Kriege auf unserer Erde aber mit ihrem Lächeln und ihrem ruhigen Auftreten hat HM Queen Elisabeth II das Gefühl vermittelt, alles wird gut.
Vielen Dank für Ihre freundlichen Worte und Gedanken
What a wonderful tribute to a very wonderful woman! The Queen was admired and respected all over the world. She will be missed!
My sincere condolences to you. I hope your memories of Her Majesty will bring you solace and comfort.
I’ve always believed God places the perfect person in place to lead at the perfect time. The Queen’s reign bore this out.
How blessed and thankful we are to have witnessed the Queen’s life of duty and service to others.
We grieve the passing of this incomparable human being and leader, are deeply grateful to have witnessed her example, and rejoice believing she is at peace and reunited in joy with loved ones.
Our deepest condolences are with the family and all who grieve her passing.
Well said . Mentioning Balmoral l think she knew before she went that this would be her last visit and so chose to go there this summer. I find it very fitting that it was the place she died. A place much loved by her since going there as a child. A good ending in a beautiful place of a life well lived
I agree – I had gathered that was where she wished to close her days
My deepest condolences to you, your family, the people of the Commonwealth, and my own family in Scotland. I am feeling a loss and sadness even across the pond. Her steadfast love, commitment to the duty of serving her people, calm wisdom in the face of every storm will forever be remembered and admired. Life seems different now. My best wishes and heartfelt prayers now go to King Charles III, the Queen Consort, and the Prince and Princess of Wales as they modernize the Monarchy carrying it into the future, serving the people of the Commonwealth.
Thank you so much Lady Carnarvon for that lovely story.
We in Canada are very saddened by the loss on our gracious Queen Elizabeth.
Please accept our sincere condolences.
Kathleen from Ontario Canada
In tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and in admiration of her life of service, dedication and distinction to her countrymen, the Commonwealth and on a global basis, one again borrows the apt words of Shakespeare:
“Her life was gentle; and the elements
So mixed in her, that Nature might stand up
And say to all the world, THIS WAS OUR QUEEN.”
Clearly, King Charles III has big shoes to fill. Several years ago I took over as executive assistant after a woman who had the position for 27 years passed away. I said to a business colleague that “I have big shoes to fill.” The reply to me was, get your own shoes. Sage advice.
Long live the King.
Thank you so much for your kind and loving tribute. Here, on this side of the pond, we are feeling the profound loss as well. I was given the middle name Elizabeth in 1950 following family tradition as my great grandparents immigrated here in 1890. May Queen Elizabeth Rest In Peace and thank you to her for steering the ship so steadily for 70 years and thank you to you for sharing your experiences.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for sharing your wonderful words and memories of our Queen. It’s warmed my heart today to think of Her Majesty walking in the beautiful grounds of Highclere that we had the privilege to visit this summer. I remember seeing the wonderful photographs around the house of her visits and the friendship she shared with your late father-in law.
God Save The King
Mooi verwoord Lady Carnarvon.
Lady Carnarvon, ich bin eine große Anhängerin von den langjährigen Traditionen der Briten, und Ihre Majestät, Königin Elisabeth, verkörperte unverrückbare Beständigkeit. Ich liebe Großbritannien, die Landschaft, alles das, was es ausmacht. Ich wünsche mir sehr, dass die Monarchie lange fortbestehen möge. Danke für Ihre privaten Einblicke. Bleiben Sie gesund. Ganz herzliche Grüße aus Dutschland.
The Queen is dead, god save the King!
Danke schoen – danke, Sie war die Königin, wo immer wir alle in der Welt leben…
Beautiful
Condolences your husband on the loss of his godmother. I’m sure this loss is deeply personal for your family, and I hope you take the time to honor her memory and grieve.
What a beautiful tribute to the Queen! My mother-in-law was born (1923-2001) and raised in London. I remember her telling me stories of when Queen Elizabeth had her coronation in 1953, and how exciting it was. I didn’t know much about the Queen until I watched The Crown. I knew that it was just a tv show, and would probably add a lot of drama for effect, so I did a lot of research on my own. What really stood out to me was that over all these many years, she gave ALL of herself to being Queen, and living up to what that meant. Even at times sacrificing her own happiness, or the happiness of her family. She always thought of her country and her people first. My admiration for her is beyond words. There will never be another woman that will ever live up to Queen Elizabeth II!
What a lovely tribute to her Majesty. Since I was a child I have always been enamored with her life and personality. As I matured and learned what real leadership and caring was I became to admire her so very much. Her knowledge and her interest in others made such a difference in how she presented herself. We will greatly miss her. RIP Queen Elizabeth ll
Our deepest condolences, milady, to you and the Earl, and your entire household at Highclere. She was a beacon to the world for all those years and will be greatly missed. I remember her visits to Virginia, touring Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg as well as the College of William and Mary, all places she seemed to grace in light of our British history, rebellious as it was. We were so pleased to have her here. Her good humor about us colonists was a delight. I hope our shared memories will give us sustenance.
God save the King.
Dearest Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you so much for sharing such wonderful memories. Even though I live in the US, my ancestors are from England and Scotland. I was 5 years old when she became Queen, so she is part of my life’s fabric also. It never mattered who our president was, we all knew who Queen Elizabeth was. She was a constant we could count on. I didn’t realize she had such a wonderful sense of humor until her passing. Sad isn’t it? Once again dear Lady, thank you.
Brenda Watson
Kuna, Idaho
USA
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
My condolences to you and your countrymen on the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Even as an American I was touched by her grace and duty and marvelled often at how she carried herself through every moment of her life, whether good or bad. I’ve been watching little snippets that feature her sense of humor and I laugh with her as she allowed herself to find joy in the things she loved. She was a great Queen the like of which will not be seen again. God save the Queen. Long live the King.
Such a beautiful tribute. Thank you.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for your lovely, heartfelt remembrance of the Queen. I am an American, yet I’ve always felt a deep connection to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. I acknowledge and appreciate all that she was and all that she has done throughout her life. Truly, there will never be another person like her. I am grateful that for all of my life she has been an inspiration. I will miss her terribly.
I’d like to thank you for your blog and sharing all that you do. You are an inspiration as well!
Condolences and blessings to you and yours
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your Queen, actually, the world’s Queen. Her Majesty’s presence will be missed very much by her family and her subjects. She was crowned Queen the year I was born and, as many, have only known one ruling monarch. I will forever be blessed with the memory of seeing her up close when she visited Hawaii and stayed at the hotel I worked at. I loved seeing Lord Carnarvon’s family photos of Her Majesty’s connections with his family. Those are such treasured memories of his Godmother. Thank you for sharing those precious photos.
God save the King. May he prosper and live a long life!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for a beautiful tribute to our wonderful Queen, I still can’t believe it. May she rest in peace, and she is now back with her beloved Philip.
God save the King.
Beautifully eloquent, just as one has learnt to expect from you dear Lady Carnarvon. I’m sure you enjoyed and experienced such wonderfully animated conversations with Her Majesty over the years. If I recall correctly, HM was also Lord Carnarvon’s Godmother…..what a lucky guy!! God bless you and your family and God save The King. I have every good reason to believe we have a good well prepared King Charles to steady our ship. He has my respect .
Words fail. Lady Carnarvon you spoke for all of us. Condolences to the people of the UK. RIP Your Majesty. Long live the king.
Dearest Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for your heartfelt tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. I anxiously awaited your Monday blog post. The photos you enclosed show the mutual affection Queen Elisabeth, and the House of Windsor, had for the Carnarvon family. Your father-in-law played such an important role in Queen Elisabeth’s equestrian interests, far beyond perhaps what we will ever know. Their work and influence lives beyond them, here in Tennessee, Kentucky, and in stables all across America, Great Britain, and I dare say the entire world. It is a grand and beautiful heritage, that honors the most majestic of creatures. Because of the horse, great explorers were able to roam about in the America’s, and I count myself as one blessed to be born into a family that cherished horses, used their strength to farm the land, and delighted in every fold that followed. Owning horses was one of the great joys of my life, with some of my fondest memories riding in the quietness of a deep snowfall, or galloping full on through spring meadows. My hope is to give a home to a small herd of Quarter mares, Arabian stallions, Palominos and Paints. Our family tradition was to name them after country music stars, as we have relations that are members of The Grand Ole Opry. My herd however will include an Elisabeth, a Phillip, a Fiona, a Gordy, and of course a Porchy. My heart reaches to you and your family, with heartfelt condolences on the gentle passing of Queen Elisabeth II. I know in the fullness of time, we will all be united again, and ride effortlessly through fields of flowers, of which beauty can only be imagined.
Lady Carnarvon
Thank you for your personal memories. It is enlightening to read about the personal stories concerning Her Majesty. l am in mourning with her passing she was a lovely charming lady. Thank you for these memories. May she rest in peace. And going forward as we must ‘God save the King’.
MINHA QUERIDA LADY CARNARVON ,
BOA NOITE DO BRASIL,
QUE OS LAÇOS DE AMIZADE QUE UNEM BRASIL E INGLATERRA CONTINUEM.
MEU PAÍS FICOU MUITO HONRADO COM A VISITA DE VOSSA MAGESTADE A RAINHA ELIZABETH 2 E DO DUQUE DE EDIMBURGO EM 1968. EU ERA UMA CRIANÇA PEQUENA, MAS ME LEMBRO COM CARINHO DESSA VISITA DE TÃO ILUSTRES FIGURAS AO MEU PAÍS. COM A MORTE DA RAINHA, UMA ERA SE FINDA, MAS OUTRA ACABA DE CHEGAR.
GOD SAVE THE KING CHARLES 3 .
VILA ALEMÃ
RIO CLARO – SP
BRASIL
Lady Carnarvon,
Please accept my condolences for the loss of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
I admire so much that the vow she made at 21 was kept all these years.
She met the new PM two days before she died!
What dedication and resolve. Clearly, she deserves every tribute.
I would like to share a story with you. In 1984 the Queen and her party visited Canyon Ranch in Big Horn, Wyoming, the home of Jean Wallop’s family. During her stay she visited two stores in nearby Sheridan, Kings Saddlery and Ritz Sporting Goods. Sam Mavrakis, the proprietor of the Ritz, had tied flies for Prince Philip several years earlier and Sam had a fishing rod and a box flies for the Queen to take home to him. Several photos were taken of the visit which Sam proudly displayed in the store. A few years later the store burned down along with everything in it, including those precious photos. Somehow the Queen learned of this and had her photographer send copies of the photos to Sam, which he once again proudly displayed. The people of Sheridan will never forget this touching example of the Queen’s thoughtfulness.
Oh my, what a story. Wow!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
We join the world in sending our condolences to you and the people of the United Kingdom. While her people may have lost Her Majesty as a beacon, may the Queen forever serve as an inspiration and model of selfless service, quiet calm, love of animals, and gratitude for the work of others.
Même en tant que française, je ressens une profonde tristesse au décès de Sa Majesté Elisabeth II . Elle a été un exemple de courage pour tous. Elle restera comme la personnalité la plus représentative du XXème siècle. C’est un privilège pour vous, (que je vous envie ), d’avoir pu la rencontrer.
Bonne journée.
Thank you for this lovely post honoring Her Majesty The Queen.
I am among the many thousands-if not more–Americans who were heart-broken to learn of the death of The Queen.
She was a constant source of goodness, decency, honor and duty in a world that seems, literally, to have collectively lost its mind.
What an inspiration she was to everyone. She lived up to the oath she made as a young girl of 21 years-old, and served her nation all of her days. What a loss!
God Bless The Queen!
Dear Lady Carnarvan,
This was such a lovely tribute, and comforting to read. The passing of Queen Elizabeth is indeed felt far and wide, like an enormous earthquake, and yet her beautiful, small voice still heard. She was indeed a lesson for us all in comportment, wisdom, humor, grace, and even in adaptability. God bless her family and God rest her soul.
Dear Lady Caernarvon,
What a beautiful moving and eloquent tribute to H.M The Queen.
Her Majesty meant so much to so many people and we have remembered
that she was also Godmother to your husband the Earl, and to whom we also
send condolences and to your family.
I particurly have loved the quotes from Shakespeare which you so fittingly
included in your tribute as had King Charles over the last few days.
Dear Lady Carnarvon
I enjoyed reading your lovely tribute to Her Majesty. Thank you, so much. We were all touched, both young and old, by the magic of her character. It is truly amazing how one person united so many people around the world over a period of 70 years. I am a Canadian born in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, 10 days after the passing of King George VI. My father, who was born in Greece, asked my older siblings, all born in the 1930s, what we should call our new baby. My 20-years-old sister who loved the monarchy and kept a scrapbook about them, piped in, “Philip,” after Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. So from an early age I felt a strong link to Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Her passing is a great loss for us all, but it has united us in our love and adoration for her.
Long live the King!
The Queen was disciplined, dedicated and lived her life consistently throughout the years. She never hesitated to share her faith. A life well-lived. She will be missed in this world.
Thank you for your beautiful words, Lady Carnarvon. My condolences to you and your fellow citizens as your mourn the loss of Her Majesty and my prayers to her family at this sad time. May you all be comforted by your memories of her, public and private.
Your personal point of view means so much. Thank you for adding a more first-person dimension to what we know about her, and what made us care.
Lady Carnarvon
This is a beautiful story and recollection of the Queen and Highclere. Our hearts feel ill and tight. The world has lost a peace in their hearts. Her legacy and humanity is unrepeatable, through my generation, my parents and grandparents and uncles. But there was no other smile like hers. And it will keep gleaming for forever.
Dear Lady Carnarvon
My twin brother and I were christened in Highclere Church in 1950 and regularly visited the estate in our first 15 years. Robert Taylor, butler to the 6th Earl, was our Uncle. I remember with much pleasure at this sad time, receiving a Sunday morning phone call from the Butlers House on a number of occasions to say that The Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Princess Anne were staying at Milford Lake House on a private visit and would be attending the Sunday morning service at the Church. Our parents hurried us young boys into the car for the short drive so we could greet the Royal family as they enter the church. There were only ever a small number of us enjoying this unique opportunity. A very happy and poignant memory for my brother and me at this time of much reflection.
This is a lovely memory for you and your twin brother
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
This is indeed a sad time for all people of Great Britain and around the world. HRH Queen Elizabeth had a quiet strength that transcended generations. My deepest condolences to you, Lord Carnarvon, and all those at Highclere. I know her death is deeply felt by your family.
Blessings,
Pam
Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you so much for your precious words. My daughter and I were able to come from South Carolina (USA) to attend the Magic of the Movies event this past Saturday. It was something we planned on 10 months ago and it was perfect in every way. Thank you for posting a picture of the tribute table that you set up for Queen Elizabeth. We saw it as we toured the castle, and it brought tears to my eyes to see it again. It was an honor to be there on Saturday when you had the moment of silence for her Majesty. My daughter and I didn’t feel like “intruders”. Instead we felt like we were part of a global family…celebrating the life of a woman who impacted the world in such a unique way. Thank you for all you continue to do at Highclere…bringing together people from all over the world and allowing them to connect, breathe and celebrate life. Blessings!
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
This must be an especially sad week for your family with the remembrance of your father- in-law on the 11th. Many people have quoted the Queen this week…”Grief is the price we pay for love.” Which I believe she said about the Earl in 2001. I am amazed as an American that somehow, we all thought she was our Queen..and somehow we thought she was immortal. Deepest sympathies to you during this difficult week for your family, and much love to our brethren as you all grieve the loss of your Queen.
God Save the King.
Holly and John Rigby
Washington, NH and Pinehurst, TX
Dear Lady Carnarvon:
Thank you for your Monday blog and beautiful tribute to Her Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
I would be remiss if I did not extend my condolences to Lord Carnarvon on the loss of his Godmother, to both of you on the loss of a family friend, and to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth on the loss of a one-of-a-kind leader.
Even though this is both a busy and painful time for you, I appreciate all the postings you have made to Facebook and Instagram, and for keeping your readership reminded of all the good the Queen did during her extraordinary lifetime.
I wish King Charles III all the best as he begins his new life’s journey. Long live the King.
Until next week, may all the good memories keep you comforted.
Perpetua Crawford
Lady Carnarvon,
I joined your blog a few days ago and I have taken time to think of what to write. I watched Mary Berry’s show and one of the first things that struck me was your wonderful laugh. Thank you for my first real smile of that day.
I am a Canadian who lives in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. I retired two years ago and one of my activities is arm chair traveling. After watching the above mentioned show I went to the Web and looked up Highclaire Castle. You have a beautiful home (and dogs). I will continue to learn about the Castle, the Earl and you.
I visited England four times jn the 1980’s and 1990’s. I feel in love with your home country. I am hoping I will be able to visit again.
Your September 12 blog is a very heartfelt tribute to Queen Elizabeth. I look forward to continued correspondence with you.
Susan Kearsey
Newfoundland
Canada
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for your wonderful essay. I had known your family was very close to the Queen’s family but did not realize that the Queen was your husbands godmother. Please accept my sincere condolences.
One of my earliest tv memories was the Queen’s coronation. I was fascinated by the idea of a Queen and my mother was quickly inundated with questions! Queen Elizabeth replaced the baton twirler from the “Big Circus” as my tv idol! My mother, who was aptly named Elizabeth was 4 years older and resembled the Queen due to a common Scottish, English, German heritage. My mom died at 40, very young, and as I watched the Queen age, I knew my mother would have resembled her. They also shared a sense of humor. Now I will miss the Queen as well as my mother.
Your essay was wonderful and reminded us all of the best that can be found in humanity.
Thank you.
Dianne Jones
Kirkland, WA, USA