In a recent revelation by historian Andrew Lownie, author of the book Traitor King, it has been disclosed that Edward VIII, once considered a traitor, faced his final days in a state of despair.
Despite his ailing condition, Edward made a monumental effort to dress himself for a visit from Queen Elizabeth, which took him an exhausting four hours.
Just before his passing, the Queen, along with King Charles and the Duke of Edinburgh, paid a brief visit during a state trip to France.
However, it was noted by Edward’s night nurse that Wallis, his wife, seemed notably absent during this period, contrary to popular belief about her devotion.
During the last weeks leading up to Edward’s demise, Wallis was reportedly missing from his side, as shared by his nurse.
This absence deeply affected those around him, especially his nurse Ms. Alexander, who expressed shock at Wallis’s neglect of her husband.
Edward, yearning for his wife’s presence, repeatedly called out for her, echoing his longing with cries of “Wallis” and “darling.”
Despite this, the Duke continued to profess his unwavering love for Wallis, acknowledging the happiness and purpose she brought into his life, far outweighing any sacrifices he made for her.
The Duke’s marriage to Wallis in 1937 marked a significant chapter in his life, providing him with the comfort and love he had sought.
As his health deteriorated, Edward’s dependence on Wallis became more evident, juxtaposed against her apparent absence during his final days.
In the early hours of May 28, Edward VIII, the uncrowned King, breathed his last.
Various conflicting narratives exist regarding Wallis’s whereabouts at the time of his passing, perpetuating the enigmatic aura surrounding the couple even in death.
According to accounts from individuals close to the couple, including Wallis’s friend Aline Griffith, Countess of Romanones, and nurse Oonagh Shanley, differing versions of Edward’s final moments emerge.
While Aline described a poignant scene where Wallis cradled Edward as he uttered a final endearment, Oonagh recounted a tender moment between the couple before Edward’s passing.
The mystique surrounding Edward and Wallis persisted beyond their lives, culminating in a series of contrasting tales about their bond and Wallis’s demeanor during Edward’s final hours.
