Queen Camilla provided an update on King Charles' health during a garden party at Lamb House in Rye, East Sussex, quipping that the monarch would be "getting better" if he "behaved himself." The 76-year-old Queen Consort shared her frustration with guests, noting that her husband is working hard and taking on numerous engagements so soon after his cancer diagnosis and return to public-facing duties.
King Charles, 75, was unable to join Camilla at the event as he had been "dragged away to more menial tasks." The Queen Consort, who was treated to a performance by actors Timothy West and Hayley Mills, said that while Charles is recovering well, he was "quite cross he could not be there" at the National Trust property, which was once home to author E.F. Benson.
Despite the King's absence, Camilla enjoyed her literary-themed day by the coast, which coincided with the launch of her own literary festival at Hampton Court Palace next month. The event will feature A-list actors, including Miriam Margolyes and Helena Bonham-Carter, gathering for a spectacular performance.
During the garden party, Camilla was asked by a local schoolgirl named Bess, "Are there any fictional places from a book that you would like to travel to and why?" The Queen Consort replied, "One place I think I'd love to go is Hogwarts. I'd like to jump on the Express and I'd like to go to Hogwarts and sit in that wonderful hall and wait for the hat to come round and pick a house for me." She added that she would like to see the magical characters and experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Harry Potter series.
The event was also attended by notable figures from the literary world, including children's laureate Joseph Coelho, Jacqueline Wilson, author of Tracy Beaker, actress Jenny Agutter, Francesca Simon of Horrid Henry books, and Sir Lenny Henry.
Although King Charles missed the garden party, he is set to lead the Royal Family at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show next week. The father of two is said to be delighted that his doctors have given him permission to undertake more public engagements again, following a turbulent period marked by reports of his declining health and updates on funeral preparations.
However, the King's busy schedule has raised concerns, with Queen Camilla expressing her frustration that he is not getting enough rest. In the past week alone, Charles packed in five royal engagements in just 48 hours, despite advice to take it easy following his cancer diagnosis.
The Queen Consort's update on the King's health comes amid reports of a strained relationship between King Charles and his youngest son, Prince Harry. A friend close to the Queen revealed that Prince William, the Prince of Wales, may be against the idea of Harry reuniting with his father. Society journalist Petronella Wyatt claimed that it is William who has been preventing a proper reconciliation between the King and the Duke of Sussex, despite the potential benefits for the country and the monarch.
