The message that Buckingham Palace wished to convey was obvious - the monarch is strong and will carry on his duties, despite the health setback.
Hours earlier, his daughter-in-law Catherine, the Princess of Wales, was driven away from the same hospital following planned abdominal surgery.
For several days, the global media speculation over their health - and that of the monarchy as a whole - died down.
But last night's surprise announcement that Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer inevitably provoked another frenzy - and will once again raise questions about whether it is fair to expect a man in his mid-70s to fulfill a rota of public duties.
He in effect started his new job a decade after most men retire.
For many, it will also seem as if fate has placed another unforeseen challenge on to a reign that has been so long in the waiting.
Seventy-two years ago, when his grandfather died and his mother became queen, Charles became heir apparent at the age of three. He held that title for 70 years - longer than anyone else.
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