Put it in the Car, Cynthia!

Queen Mary (wife of King George VI) was a noted kleptomaniac. She was one of Britain’s great Queens, securing the monarchy and demonstrating a splendid sense of duty to the nation. She was also a formidable woman of imposing presence who, when visiting friends, caused havoc in their homes, as they had to lock up all their valuables before she arrived. She loved shopping, particularly in jewellers’ shops, where she behaved like a child set loose in a sweet shop. On arrival, she would seat herself and ask to be shown an assortment of the most priceless items on display. They would remain priceless when she left with her choices, as she omitted to pay for them, much to the consternation of the jewellers. The title of the play “Put It In The Car, Cynthia!” is well founded.