Letter from King Charles to Grieving Friend Describes ‘Unbearable Emptiness’ After Princess Diana’s Death
It has been 27 years since the tragic death of Princess Diana, yet a recently uncovered letter from King Charles III, penned just four months after her passing, reveals the profound grief that still lingers. The heartfelt correspondence, dated December 8, 1997, captures the raw emotions of a man grappling with loss, as he extends his condolences to a friend, Peter, who was mourning the death of “dear Liz.”
In the letter, King Charles expresses his sorrow, stating that his heart “bleeds” for Peter, acknowledging the “utter agony and despair” that accompanies the loss of a loved one. He reflects on the bewilderment and confusion that often follows the untimely departure of someone so young, a sentiment that resonates deeply in the wake of Diana’s own tragic death in a car accident just months earlier.
Leaning into his Christian faith, Charles quotes the Bible, specifically 1 Corinthians 13:12, to convey a sense of hope amidst despair: “Now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face.” This biblical reference underscores the King’s belief in a greater understanding beyond the physical realm, offering a glimmer of comfort to those grappling with grief.
The letter, handwritten on Highgrove House letterhead, is a poignant reminder of the emotional turmoil that surrounded the royal family during that period. It was delivered by hand, emphasizing the personal nature of the message. Royal experts are still trying to uncover the true identities of Peter and Liz, adding an air of mystery to the correspondence.
As the letter comes to light, it is set to be auctioned by RR Auction in Boston, with a starting bid of $2,000 (£1,500). The spokesperson for the auction house noted that Charles was likely particularly emotional when he wrote the letter, given the recent loss of Diana, who was just 36 years old at the time of her death.
In his letter, Charles articulates the helplessness that often accompanies grief, stating, “I often think that that is the worst part of all—being unable to help in any constructive way except to say constant prayers in the background.” His words resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one, highlighting the universal nature of grief.
The letter concludes with a touching sentiment, as Charles expresses his fondness for Liz and his concern for Peter, stating, “We shall all have such special memories of her but, above all, Peter, we mind about you and you are so very much in my thoughts and prayers at this most anguishing of times.”
This heartfelt correspondence not only sheds light on King Charles’s personal grief but also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of loss, even decades later. As the world reflects on the legacy of Princess Diana, this letter stands as a testament to the deep emotional connections that bind us all in times of sorrow.