In a touching revelation that sheds new light on the complex bond between royalty and sisterhood, previously secret documents have uncovered Princess Margaret's profoundly selfless final request concerning her sister, Queen Elizabeth II.
The fiery princess, known for her rebellious spirit and glamorous lifestyle, demonstrated extraordinary consideration in her final days. According to newly released papers, Margaret specifically instructed that the Queen should not be informed of her death until the following morning, regardless of when she passed away.
The Heartbreaking Royal Protocol
This poignant instruction was formalised in a memorandum from Margaret's private secretary, Lord Napier, to the Queen's private secretary, Sir Robin Janvrin. The document, dated February 8, 2002 - the day before Margaret's death - outlined precise arrangements for managing the sensitive communication.
The directive was clear and uncompromising: "If she dies, as seems likely, tonight or tomorrow, the Queen should not be woken.'' This thoughtful provision was designed to protect Her Majesty from the shock of receiving devastating news in the middle of the night.
A Sister's Protective Instinct
What makes this request particularly moving is the timing. The Queen was scheduled to embark on a significant Commonwealth tour to Australia just days later. Margaret, understanding the immense pressure and responsibility her sister carried, sought to ensure the monarch could rest peacefully before facing what would undoubtedly be an emotionally challenging period.
This final act of consideration speaks volumes about the depth of their relationship, which had weathered numerous storms throughout their lives. Despite their differences in personality and position, Margaret's last thoughts were of her sister's wellbeing.
The Final Hours at Buckingham Palace
The documents paint a vivid picture of the tense atmosphere within royal circles during Margaret's final decline. Palace officials maintained constant communication, with updates flowing between Sandringham, where the Queen was in residence, and the King Edward VII Hospital, where Margaret lay gravely ill.
In the end, Margaret passed away at 6:30 am on February 9, 2002. Thanks to her explicit instructions, the Queen was allowed to wake naturally before receiving the heartbreaking news about her younger sister.
This remarkable story, hidden for over two decades, reveals a side of Princess Margaret often overshadowed by her controversial public persona - a woman whose final act was one of pure, selfless love for her sister and sovereign.
