The four-day celebration held in honour of Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee was a powerful demonstration of how much the Queen is loved and respected by the British people—not for the wealth and privilege that republicans scorn, but for the steadfast devotion to public service she continues to embody and exemplify.

Perhaps no moment in the festivities touched on the people’s affection more than a charming sketch presented at the start of the star-studded concert held at Buckingham Palace, in which the Queen has tea with Paddington Bear—another beloved British icon. In the hugely popular skit—in which the Queen cameoed in her own physical absence, and which all those involved managed to keep quite secret—Paddington is seen to behave in his erratic but lovable ways, chugging tea and juggling the pot, while the Queen looks on with mild surprise and amusement. The two reveal to each carry marmalade sandwiches for emergencies, the Queen humorously pulling hers out of her signature purse. As the party starts, Paddington offers the Queen his good wishes and expresses a poignant sense of gratitude to Her Majesty: ‘Happy Jubilee, Ma’am'—and thank you, for everything.’ It’s a touching moment giving voice to a national sentiment.

And then the two play ‘We Will Rock You’ with their spoons. All very British, indeed.