Princess Elizabeth and the Gardener: An Anecdote

When she was a young princess, Queen Elizabeth II has charmed millions around the world, even as a child. This great charm about  is her innate friendliness, reporters of the day said, and she liked to pass the time of day with everyone.

One time, while enjoying the day in Hamilton Gardens, behind her home, 145 Piccadilly, the little Princess used to greet an old-time gardener who tended the flowers and shrubs. The princess did not every morning and whenever she met him, she would always ask him a question.

For two days in the spring the gardener did not put in an appearance.

"Why have you been away?” she asked when he returned.

"Because, Princess, I've had a cold," he answered.

"Oh, poor man!" was her reply. "Just like Grandpa!"

More stories about Queen Elizabeth II's childhood here:

• Princess Elizabeth of York Away from her Parents 
• A Princess Goes to the Museum 
• A Cake for Princess Elizabeth 
• Hobbies and pursuits of a young princess 
• Queen Elizabeth II’s First Broadcast was During a “Children's Hour” Programme 

Source

The Canberra Times, Wednesday November 6, 1929.