PRECIOUS TIME

Health Fears as King Charles Leaves Event in His Honor After 10 Minutes

The king is traveling with two doctors and a supply of his own blood.

King Charles III, who is touring Australia despite being treated for cancer, left a lunch held in his honor after just 10 minutes Sunday. The brief appearance was a forceful reminder of the challenges facing the king as he tries to maintain his official duties and manage his ongoing health crisis. The king made a brief speech at New South Wales’ Parliament House, presenting lawmakers with an hourglass as a present, saying it was a reminder of the “sands of time” and would encourage “brevity.” The king, who is traveling with two doctors and a supply of his own blood, left before the first course was served and was not due to be seen again until Monday. He has been in Australia since Friday, and has paused his cancer treatment for 11 days while undertaking the tour.