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“I’ve lost something very precious”: King George VI’s letter to his daughter, Elizabeth on her wedding day

The royal vaults have been unsealed to commemorate Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip's 68th wedding anniversary.
King George VI and Princess Elizabeth

In celebration of the momentous occasion the British Monarchy has gifted the public with a touching insight from the then-Princess Elizabeth’s wedding day.

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Her Majesty’s office shared through their social media accounts, a letter King George VI gave to his daughter shortly after her wedding on November 20, 1947.

“I was so proud and thrilled at having you so close to me on our long walk in Westminster Abbey,” the emotional letter begins.

The royals pose on Buckingham Palace balcony following King George’s eldest daughter’s wedding on November 20, 1947.

“But when I handed your hand to the Archbishop, I felt I had lost something very precious.

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“You were so calm and composed during the service and said your words with such conviction, that I knew everything was all right.

“I have watched you grow up all those years with pride under the skilful direction of Mummy…who, as you know, is the most marvellous person in the world in my eyes, and I can, I know, always count you, and now Philip, to help us in our work.

“You’re leaving us has left a great blank in our lives, but do remember that your old home is still yours…and do come back to it as much and as often as possible.

George was exceptionally close to his girls, especially his eldest, Elizabeth.

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I can see that you are sublimely happy with Philip, which is right, but don’t forget us is the wish of your ever loving and devoted…Papa.”

The poignant note was penned when Elizabeth was just 21-years-old and her father was still King. It was well-documented how close the father/daughter duo were. Sadly, just four years later while Princess Elizabeth was travelling through Kenya, her world was changed forever.

On 6th February 1952, her father unexpectedly died. The young royal quickly returned home as the 25-year-old Queen of England.

Now, 64 years later, Queen Elizabeth ii has become the Britain’s longest reigning monarch. No doubt her papa would be ever so proud.

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Watch the footage from Elizabeth’s wedding in the video player below.

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