Reading circle - February choice

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The Lords' Day by Michael Dobbs

The yearly State Opening of Parliament marks an interesting date on the calender. It is a day when those who rule our land gather together in the House of Lords, to hear the Queen's Speech. Amongst the various rituals that will be enacted, is the one with Black-Rod. After knocking three times on the door with his staff, (black rod) he is admitted by Her Majesty. She will be sat on the throne, wearing the Robes of State and Imperial State Crown.

Also in this room, as well as the Queen, will be the Prime Minister and his Cabinet, the judges, the bishops and other spiritual and temporal leaders. It is a day of pomp and ceremony. A day when red robes with ermine, faux or otherwise, is displayed, along with the tiaras and jewels. It is a charming spectacle.

On this particular day, the heir to the throne is sat next to his mother. In the galleries, the Prime Minister and his son, are sat next to the US President and his son. Soon, what was a charming spectacle, will turn into a horrifying spectacle. For it is on this momentous day, that they will all be taken hostage...

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