Henry announced by royal decree the new line of succession to the people. Upon his death the crown would go to his sons Prince Charles and Prince George as joint monarchs. The next in line would be the first male heir born to either son, if no male heirs, then the Princess Elizabeth's male children. Along with this announcement came the reinstatement of Mary as Princess of the England.
Mary's first outing as Princess once more was a surprise from Anne. Today was January 7, exactly one year after her mother's death. Mary had never been allowed to see her mother after she was sent from court, or mourn openly after her death. Her father had even forbade anyone to tell Mary where she was buried. Anne looked up at Mary as they approached Peterborough Cathedral.
"Princess Mary, would you please do me a small favor."
"Anything, your majesty."
Anne gave Mary a blindfold, and signaled to the guards to make sure all were quiet outside. She didn't want anyone to ruin this for Mary. Anne helped guide Mary through the Cathedral before finally stopping.
"Mary, now close your eyes, and don't open them until I tell you to."
Mary really wasn't sure what was going on as she felt the blindfold was removed.
"Now open them." Mary's eyes fluttered open and tears began to run down her face instantly. She was standing in front of her mother's grave.
"I will leave you to grieve, sweetheart" Anne said as she hugged Mary.
Mary grabbed Anne's hand. "Please stay with me."
The two walked closer to the marble slab marking Katherine's burial spot hand in hand.
"I miss you mother."
The two spent the rest of the day at the Cathedral, leaving only shortly before dark so they could be back at Kimbolton Castle. Anne had arranged for the two of them to stay there as a holiday from court. Part of Mary's reconnection with her mother.
"Charles"
"Yes your majesty." Charles couldn't wait until Anne and Mary returned, the king was beginning to drive him crazy with all his planning.
"Now when the Princess and Queen return, should we have Prince Henry, visible or should it be a surprise."
Charles sighed, Henry hadn't shut up since Anne took Mary to see her mother's grave.
"Henry, I would think it would be best to introduce him formally after the Queen and Princess return. Might I suggest, we have Catherine help you plan this party."
"Brilliant idea, send for her at once."
"Yes, your majesty."
Mary and Anne were due to arrive back at Hampton Court today. Elizabeth, Charles and George had been brought from Hatfield and were currently in the royal nursery.
"Your majesties."
"Brother, how I have missed you." Anne hadn't seen her brother since she left court.
"I am well. I am sure you have heard, that Jane died of the sweating sickness shortly after you left court."
"I'm so sorry for your loss, brother, I had not heard"
"Princess Mary, I am so glad to see you are well."
"Thank you, your sister gave me the most wonderful gift."
The three walked towards the nursery to see the young child.
"MARY!" Elizabeth exclaimed as she rain towards her sister.
"Did you miss me, Mary?"
"Yes little sister"
Anne went to look down at her handsome little boys. They were so cute lying cuddled together.
"Queen Anne, Princess Mary, Lord Rochford your presence is requested by the king."
"Sleep tight my little ones." Anne went and hugged Elizabeth. "Mommy loves you so much my angel."
As the party left the nursery, Anne took Mary's hand. She had no clue what was awaiting them but she could tell before they left they Henry was planning something.
Charles led the Queen and Princess to their thrones. Henry looked almost giddy.
Henry, well Catherine Brandon, had organized a wonderful party for the Princess. A masque and musicians performed. Henry Norris came over to the king bringing him a small box.
"Mary, my pearl, I give you this on this most happy day"
He slowly opened to reveal the most beautiful pearl and ruby necklace.
"Mary, that is so pretty and perfect for you." Anne added.
"This is not your only surprise."
"Lords and Ladies, Prince Henry of France"
Anne looked at Henry, could he have actually found a match for Mary. Anne could hoped so, Mary so deserved happiness and a chance of a family.
"Your majesties, Princess Mary."
"I King Henry VIII, am happy to announce the betrothal of my beautiful daughter, Princess Mary, to Prince Henry of France"
Mary squeezed Anne's hand tightly, a single tear rolling down her cheek. Her life was changing so much, but for the better.