It may not be wrong to say that the royal family attempted to show unity and discipline during their Easter walk, but some historians and experts witnessed a growing fault line within the Firm.
The Epstein scandal undoubtedly cast a shadow over royal plans, including the King’s official visit to the United States.
Prince Edward’s secret visit to Andrew at his new home before Easter was said to have been planned by the monarch to ease tensions regarding Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, who were forced to make a separate Easter plan to avoid the royal gathering.
Duchess Sophie, Edward’s wife, missed the event due to her health issue, but it was also seen as a strategic move to balance things amid growing tension within the family.
His absence is a stark reminder of the flaws that threaten to tear the Firm apart.
A source claimed: “Duchess Sofia’s absence was a deliberate move as she always says yes to the king.”
“She and her daughters missed the event as part of a strategy to maintain balance within the family, keeping the monarch’s wishes in the foreground,” they added.
There are also claims that the future monarch, William, has already made it clear that he will not attend any gatherings where any member of the York family is present.
But at the same time, Charles has already announced that he will invite Beatrice and Eugenie to attend Royal Ascot with him and Camilla.
This contradicts stories believed to have been planted by William’s camp earlier this year, which said they would not go.
Ascot is one of the monarchy’s most visible scenes, a highly choreographed display of unity, hierarchy and royal legitimacy.
Including the York princesses would be a clear statement that their uncle still sees them within the public fold.
According to some royal experts, Easter is an opportunity for the 77-year-old to explain that the modern monarchy will be a force for public good.
