Civic Dinner

18th October 2023

Mansion House

Kings and crowns and whatnot? It sounds like something out of a dream or a fairy tale,' said Eeyore. On Wednesday October 18th, the fairy tale came true. The King and Queen of England processed through the Egyptian Hall and took their regal places. The diamonds on Queen Camilla’s tiara and earrings sparkled throughout the room. She looked as comfortable as she typically does in the countryside: relaxed. The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress were equally regal and composed. During his speech, the Lord Mayor referenced the Pearl Sword ceremony, unseen by most guests. Representing the authority of the Lord Mayor in the City of London, the King was presented with the Pearl sword. King Charles then returned the Pearl Sword, confirming the Lord Mayor's authority when the monarch is not present. I was fortunate enough to glimpse the King and Queen as they walked the red carpeted hallway immediately after this ancient ritual.

Throughout the evening the atmosphere was electric. Fellow Masters and City of London attendees were on their best behaviour. It was an honour to be in attendance with my fellow Masters, Prime Wardens and Bailiff. Although many had met Royalty before, there is an almost childlike wonder that pervades at these occasions. We all knew we were watching history unfold and would remember this occasion always! The honoured guests entered in through the left and departed through the right side of the room, giving us all an opportunity to see them. The King spent most of his evening in deep conversation with the Lady Mayoress, who still appeared calm when she and I spoke afterwards. I certainly wouldn’t have been! Some Masters and City of London representatives I know received blue cards, indicating a private meeting with the King and Queen. It was a surreal event attended by approximately 30 people, no doubt one’s who had made special contributions to the Coronation. As the Kind departed the room, he acknowledged guests seated close to the area he passed. I could glimpse the twinkle in his eyes and immediately thought of Santa Claus. His mere presence a cherished gift.

King Charles’ speech was exceptional. I wanted to take notes; so, was pleased to see his speech published. As King Charles said: “every generation lives with its own set of hopes and fears, as if caught in a perpetual tussle between optimism and pessimism, promise and peril.”We all hope for promise- and fear peril. When Winnie-the-Pooh and Piglet lose Eeyore in the crowd, they come up with a plan to find their friend. Along the way they meet a Very Important Person and learn about the importance of kindness, helping others and new beginnings. This synopsis is for the book Kings and Crowns and Whatnot’s. However, it could have been based on King Charles’ wells, including: “the deep well of civility and tolerance, on which our political life and wider national conversation depend, suffused with our sense of fairness and our devotion to the rule of law.” I am proud that the City of London Corporation values kindness, promotes civility and charity and exudes tolerance and a sense of fairness. I am proud to be part of this heritage and tradition!