A scene from “Unfinished Business”

Queen Elizabeth II: You were my private secretary for two years before Martin Charteris.

Jock Colville: I was.

Queen Elizabeth II: And it was my impression that we always had a good understanding and we were able to speak openly with one another.

Jock Colville: Yes, of course.

Queen Elizabeth II: And trust one another, speak plainly when matters of real importance came up.

Jock Colville: And before Her Majesty says anything else, let me just say how sorry I am. It's been agony. I tried to stop them. I told them my opinion, but they were so insistent we keep it from you. After the second one, I really was of a mind to let you know the truth.

Queen Elizabeth II: Second what?

Jock Colville: Stroke, Ma'am. But they insisted again, everyone keep it quiet, say nothing.

Queen Elizabeth II: I see. And who was it that was doing the insisting?

Jock Colville: Lord Salisbury, ma'am. And the Prime Minister himself. On the rare occasions he was conscious. I see. That is what you asked me here to discuss?

Queen Elizabeth II: No. I asked you here to discuss whether I should take Michael Adeane for my private secretary rather than Martin Charteris. But what you've just told me is far more important.