I've been fascinated by the Abdication Crisis recently, so I'm curious. What would have happened if some nut takes a shot at Mrs. Simpson? Let's say this occurs in late November or early December of 1936, after it has become clear that Edward is probably going to abdicate but hasn't yet. Does Edward keep the throne? Is the government going to try to force him out anyway? If he does keep the throne, what will Edward VIII's reign look like after his near-abdication and the assassination of his almost-wife?
I imagine that Edward will be allowed to keep the throne providing the following happen:
1. If he does take a wife (IMO unlikely given the secure succession through OTLs George VI and Elizabeth meaning he dosen't have to marry), then the prospective bride would need to be approved by the Church before it got serious.
2. His security is increased quite massively. Of course, this will also be a very handy way of preventing Edward from getting to freindly with undesirable elements such as Herr Ribbentrop.
As for his reign, it depends who does it. If it's just some nutter, he'll be shaken, and probably spend several months, if not a year, moping in private. He may become more withdrawn from politics. If it's a fascist, then he'll probably not be so willing to think well of Herr Hitler, but a communist will increase distrust of the Soviets.