A body language expert claims King Charles III used "coping rituals" to stop himself from crying during a vigil for the Queen at the weekend.
In emotional scenes at Westminster Hall on Friday, Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, Prince Andrew, and Anne, Princess Royal, all joined the King in standing guard around the late monarch's coffin as crowds of mourners walked past them.
His Majesty and his three siblings were watched on by other members of the Royal Family, including Queen Consort Camilla Parker Bowles, as they silently paid their respects in full uniform at the lying-in-state.
Spaced apart at four corners, they all faced the catafalque before turning around and facing away, remaining in this position for 15 minutes.
Now, body language specialist Judi James has told The Sun that King Charles - who appeared composed as he approached the coffin - used a range of techniques to prevent himself from becoming too visibly upset.
Observing his behaviour as he moved through the 11th Century hall in Westminster, she said: "Charles led his siblings out with his head bowed, and during the vigil it was possible to see him performing several ‘coping’ rituals, like sucking in of the lips to increase his levels of determination, as well as closing his eyes and re-setting his jaw.
"As he paused facing the coffin, both his hands fiddled and worked away, even touching the sides of his coat in a small but telling self-comfort or anxiety ritual."
He could be seen with a "hollow eye expression" just before he took his position for the vigil, she added, and also seemed to be blinking in what may have been an effort to hold back tears.
Last night, an emotional King Charles said the Royal Family had been ‘deeply touched’ by the public outpouring of emotion for the Queen as the nation prepares to say a final goodbye.
Speaking in a recorded address after visiting all four UK countries since his mother’s death on September 8, the King said: “Over the last 10 days, my wife and I have been so deeply touched by the many messages of condolence and support we have received from this country and across the world.
“In London, Edinburgh, Hillsborough and Cardiff we were moved beyond measure by everyone who took the trouble to come and pay their respects to the lifelong service of my dear mother."
Queen Elizabeth II will be laid to rest today following services at both Westminster Abbey and St George's Chapel in Windsor.
