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It was just a handwritten note with instructions for an alfresco lunch in the sunshine - but yesterday it was sold for £16,000. The note was the star attraction at a sale of Royal memorabilia belonging to the Queen Mother's favourite page William 'Backstairs Billy' Tallon, which raised nearly £450,000. The letter, from the Queen Mother to Mr Tallon, said: 'I think that I will take 2 small bottles of Dubonnet and gin with me this morning, in case it is needed. It is a beautiful day, could we have lunch under the tree - one could have 14 at the table and four at a small table.' Enlarge William Tallon (right) with Prince Charles and the Queen Mother The 400 people at the auction in Colchester, Essex - including several from the US and Canada - gasped when bidding began at £1,100. The letter was expected to sell for £300. It was... [read full story]
