Embalming doesn't necessarily have to be expensive! Anyway, it's traditional that VIPs are buried in sealed, lead-lined coffins (hence the need for eight squaddies to heft the box), so the old dear wouldn't have become too noisome over 10 chilly days in an English early spring.
It seems we've come some way since William the Conquerer, who decomposed so violently that his casket burst open in Caen cathedral, rendering the congregation prostrate with the stench.
Apropos the funeral, though, I thought it was nicely done. As a rabid republican, I've little time for the monarchy, but they put on a good show today and, as Greg said, it was good to see the King James version and the BCP in use - I'm also an atheist, but those words are part of the fabric of my culture and I'd hate to lose them.
Musically it hit the right notes too - two of my favourite hymns and the wonderful sound of the pipes. Stirring stuff!
Not a patch on Churchill's funeral, though - which I just about remember. Still, Churchill did a bloody sight more for this country in the war years than the Queen Mum (despite the drivel the press has been pouring out over the past 10 days) so he deserved a better send-off.
Whatever - it was a good show and gave plenty for plenty to gawp at. Now it's back to normal - though it would be nice if the Army's legendary precision could be applied to the London Underground system.