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What Should a Queen Be Like?

Posted in Kate Middleton, Prince William, Princess Diana, Princess Margaret, Royal Wedding, Royalty, The Queen on February 8th, 2007
By John - leave a comment!

Lauren asks a good question in one of the comments on the last post. She asks, what should a Queen be like?

Should she be political or a fashionista, or both. And what are the qualities we should be looking for in Prince William’s consort? Bearing in mind, of course, that we don’t get to choose. That’s William’s prerogative.

Here’s an idea: we keep talking about Kate and her “suitablenesss”, or lack thereof, to be Queen–what do we all think a “suitable” Queen/potential Queen should look like, at age 25, 30, 40, 60 etc.? I think a lot of our disagreements about Kate stem from our idea of an ideal monarchy. Should the (future) King and Queen be involved with many charities? What type? Or should they be budding philosophers, guiding the country in a vision of excellence, magnanimity, and wisdom? Is “regal magnificence” acceptable? What do we think these individuals should rightly be doing, and what qualities should they possess to accomplish it?

My own opinion is that a Queen should be slightly old-fashioned, not much, but enough to distance herself from the madness of the fashion industry and the latest political “views”.

Let’s also remember that Kate Middleton (presumably) will be Queen Consort not the Monarch. However, since Anglo-Saxon times Queen Consorts have been crowned “Queen” and have been treated as such by the population, witness the late Queen Mother.

Queen Elizabeth has always been just a little behind the times, giving her an air of authority and wisdom that, say, her sister Princess Margaret never had, even though Margaret was probably better informed about that wider world, certainly the louche one, than Elizabeth.

Diana made the fatal mistake of throwing herself into the frantic fray of the fashion, entertainment and celebrity lifestyles. The result was that she was loved by 40pc of the population, loathed by another 40pc, and ignored by the remaining fifth. She became a divisive influence.

There was never much to choose between Diana and the glamorpusses of Hollywood’s Tinseltown, who usually rise like shooting stars and fall as fast as meteorites.

The Queen, on the other hand, based herself on solid values and best-practice behaviour. While it made her seem remote, it also gave her an air of authority and majesty which a Monarch needs.

No nation would want a Kate Moss as Queen and Head of State. I think, though, a Kate Middleton may well fit the bill as Consort. We shall see. The future, as ever, is an open road.

122 Responses to “What Should a Queen Be Like?”

  1. I stronly disagree with your interpretetion of Diana.This is an article that clearly attacks her character.She was mainly used by the Royals in the begining to make them popular.She expected this to die down.It didnt.As for thowing herself in the celebrity lifestyle.When this happened?Especialy after her divorce she dedicated herself to charities,dropping all the whole celebrity charity connections,and stayed with the unwanted and unpopular charities like Aids and the rest,keeping only if i remember well the ENglish National Ballet.Look at Charles and Camilla now,partying with 3-degree celebs,with Ozzie and his wife who grabbed Cams breasts.This is very unfair.Why you didnt compare Kate to the current Queen consort Camilla?You completely avoided to mention her.Diana is dead.Why you refer to her?Camilla will be the next QUeen consort.Why you dont mention her,her life and past?Sorry John but what a bitter and hatefull attack on Diana.At least she gave William and Harry some good genes.Every that isnt regognised in her.I guess the mad girl still causes huge jealousy and envy.

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 11:28 am

  2. Shake, we’ll never agree on Diana, so it isn’t worth arguing over.

    I’ve not traduced her memory, as you suggest, just put her life in perspective. She was no saint, as her brother and father have testified. In the annals of Royal history, she’ll be more remembered as a disruptive force than one who brought peace and stability.

    Let’s hope Kate is more like the Queen. ;-)

    By John on February 8th, 2007 at 11:33 am

  3. I honestly think that the role of Queen or Queen Consort is to be a stabilizing influence to the country. WW1 had the stability of Queen Mary and WW2 had the stability of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother both made the same sacrifices as other wives and mothers in the realm as for HM there is no greater role model for a Queen!!!!!

    By Trudie on February 8th, 2007 at 11:42 am

  4. As i said why dont you mention Camilla she is the next Queen consort.Why Diana is the easy target for everybody?Diana cause she wasnt tolerating the cheating has a disruptive force?As for the Queen,she made huge mistakes in her reign,and most included her children.Especialy with her son Charles,many can say she completely failed.Diana wasnt a saint thats why she was loved.WHy you think Kate isnt popular?People understand all that perfection is fake.As i said,attack the easy target.Did you happen to read what soldiers wrote on the tank Camilla rode recently?Bullocks.Iam sure they will be happy to fight for her in a war.And why no one refers to the huge damage done by Charles.You blame Diana very easily,but havent seen one single article about Charles and his mistakes.

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 11:46 am

  5. And be carefull about Kate.She was heavily bulied at school as a youngster.She appears to be this way now.Lets see how she reacts under pressure.Very easily we compare everything.Look at Masako.Highly educated and her family close to the Emperical family.And look how she has ended up,hugely troubled and depressed.Princess Alexandra another highly educated and mature woman,divorced from her Prince and she talked about how he cheated on her,and all that.She is marrying someone else now.We will see how Kate ends up,when she is Princess,pregnant,with a heavy scedule and everybody critisizing her.She only got a parling ticket and threw a tantrum,imagine what she will do when all wiil critisize her ,from the way she dresses,to what she eats,wears,smiles,laughs,reacts etc.etc.We will see.Just dont blame Diana again.She is dead.

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 12:04 pm

  6. In our days and age,what kind of Queen consort is acceptable?How we can judge a Royal girlfriend when already a person accepted in the Royal family has had a colorfull past?A person,who was married,cheated on her husband who was an army officer,with another officer,then continued the affair even when the other man got married ,is acceptable as a Queen consort?How we can judge and reject other women when already a person with such characteristics is a member of the Royal family,and will even become a Queen?

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 12:15 pm

  7. Well, Shake, she is being getting a small taste of it will be be after she marries.. Maybe she believes that after she marries William paparazzi will stop their quest…like a miracle of sorts. I agree with the fact that Camilla should be mentioned more, since sshe is next Queen Consort, no? What angrys me the most is that she is a home-wrecker who only wants to be a Queen, perhaps in her twisted world she believes that by being a Queen she will own the world. I have been raised the old traditional way, with values, if she had had good values she would have left Charles alone after he married Diana… bothe Charles and Camilla are at fault at what has happenned to the British Monarchy.

    By Ziny on February 8th, 2007 at 12:17 pm

  8. Also what does it mean to be a good Princess?Is a good Princess a woman who will tolerate a mistress?Is it a good Princess who will seem detached and cold?A woman who waits until she gets married?Who got educated but doesnt work?Is a bad Princess a woman who expects her man to love her back?Is a bad Princess a woman who wont tolerate a mistress?Who will react?Is a good Princess a woman who will remain married cause of the Title,perks money and Jewels?Is this woman going to be a role modell for women around the world?Walking a step behind her husband?

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 12:29 pm

  9. Hey John just noticed.Do you know what Syntagma means in Greek?
    It means Constitution.And the historical mall Centre in Athens is call Syntagma/

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 2:53 pm

  10. I agree with you, Ziny, about Camilla and Charles. As for Diana, I do not agree that she was a divisive influence. Diana brought an aura of magic to the British Monarchy that it has never had before in modern times. The problem was that she outshone Charles, and that was not allowed. I agree that the Queen Mother and the current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II are ideal queens and have served the Nation in an exemplary way. I do not see Camilla fulfilling that role with any degree of distinction. I believe that Kate Middleton will make an excellent Queen Consort.

    By Gigi on February 8th, 2007 at 2:56 pm

  11. Shake: Yes, I knew that. It also means building something up from small pieces, like making a sentence out of words. It’s used a lot in Western philosophy. That’s the meaning I took it from.

    By John on February 8th, 2007 at 3:43 pm

  12. Diana would have made a unique and wonderful queen. The fact that she outshown Charles was her downfall. It seems to me that Charles was always use to being #1 in the spotlight.
    Diana was warm, caring and not afraid to support controversial causes – AID, landmines, etc. This is one of the reasons she was so loved worldwide.
    She changed the monarchy. Just listen to the Queen’s 2006 Christmas message. No doubt Charles seems very happy with Camilla – she supports but doesn’t outshine him. Their actions caused 2 divorces and 1 very unhappy Diana. All she wanted was her husband to be faithful and love her. Should he become king?

    By Elizabeth Harris on February 8th, 2007 at 6:50 pm

  13. Well said, Elizabeth, I agree with you. Nothing is going to keep Charles from becoming King because he is the first born and is the Heir. But I do not look forward to his reign, nor to the grim prospect of Camilla in the role Princess Diana would have given so much grace and compassion. To be honest, just the idea of Charles as king depresses me.

    By Gigi on February 8th, 2007 at 9:39 pm

  14. I think if you are looking to see what the future of the British monarchy should look like there are plenty of examples from the rest of Europe – particularly Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederick of Denmark, Crown Princess Mette Marit and Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, Prince Phillipe and Princess Mathilde of Belgium, Crown Prince William and Crown Princess Maxima and Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia of Spain. Each of these couples brings a new excitement, commitment and insight to the role of a modern monarch. They understand their roles as public figures, but also balance that with a real sensibility of maintaining a family life. They are all much more relaxed about their roles than I have seen the British royals be – its why Diana and Fergie were breaths of fresh air. One can only hope that William and Kate will look to their “cousins” in the rest of Europe as examples of the way it should be done.

    By Jim on February 8th, 2007 at 11:23 pm

  15. Elisabeth,no one questions everybody else except Diana.Everybody was great and perfect except the mad girl.Blame her,so the WIndsors will live happily ever after.No one talks for Charles suitability as a King.

    By shake on February 8th, 2007 at 11:23 pm

  16. Wow!! A whole article! :D Thanks John, this is super. I agree–maybe arguing over what one thinks of Diana won’t go anywhere, so let’s talk about the ideas–what should a King/Queen/Queen consort/royal girlfriend be like? (Without just saying “Not like Camilla”, haha.)

    By Lauren on February 8th, 2007 at 11:55 pm

  17. British! Compassionate and articulate, willing to speak up for truth and justice. A good and attentive mother, for the sake of the future of the monarchy. A good match for the king, in terms of temperament and interests, so love can last and their reign will bring stability. How’s that for a start?

    By Evelyn on February 9th, 2007 at 1:30 am

  18. British,ahh now what that does reminds us?

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 5:10 am

  19. And more outings hehehe.They have made it a daily habit.Hard working soldiers are laughing at their regiments i think.William looks seriously ill or something,and can someone buy him some new clothes.Harry at least dresses better.Talk about drinking heavily day by day.If this isnt being an alcoholic than what is.I mean is it still natural?Going out almost every day and drinking so heavily?

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 12:20 pm

  20. At least this outing gets some press.His official visit to Wales got a few lines and no pics in the press.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 12:22 pm

  21. We should add the ,is a young woman who drinks heavily and attends nightclubs every other day is suitable to be Queen?And the same for WIlliam.Is he suitable to be King?Whom of his servicemen will trust him the next morning in an exercise holding a gun,after a heavy drinking night?

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 12:57 pm

  22. Shake I must say that you are really too harsh. Of course William is not the perfect model of a dream prince or something but he is not a king yet. He was born for being a king and was scheduled for that destiny. Likes Charles. So you can’t argue on the suitability or on their capacities to be kings. William would take drugs, would be gay, would be lazy, he can keep killing poor innocent birds and rabbits, he can be an arsehole or an alcoholic or whatever, he WILL be a king. That’s not because people are bored to see him partying and drinking that does mean people can argue on his capacity to be a king. Even for that crappy Charles. You can’t change the History because you’re bored to see him partying and drinking.
    And you can’t blame him because the medias and the newspapers don’t care when he does something serious, like official stuffs or charities. Who cares about that anyway. That’s normal! The newspapers are well sold when they show pics of him and his girlfriend partying. That’s voyeurism and that’s what people like to see I’m afraid. Because when the Royals are doing something serious then we don’t have nothing to say … ;-)
    Diana has brought something fascinating to the British monarchy and I think that the RF should be always indebted to her for that. But. If you knew that she had a bulimia problem BEFORE she got married to Charles, would you have said “a girl who is bulimic is suitable to be queen? etc…”. Of course you would have said that. Everybody would have said that. That’s easy to blame. What I mean is that Miss Middleton is determined to be a princess. Well. If she becomes, good for her! But that’s not because you drink that does mean you and your boyfriend are crap and you are not suitable to be queen. That’s nonsense to me. A queen is not a Saint or a goddess anyway. That’s just a job to me. All that she will have to do is to make babies, to smile and to shut up.

    By lilyfromfrance on February 9th, 2007 at 3:02 pm

  23. As for the question “What should a Queen be like”, well, I don’t live in a monarchistic country (we have cut their heads… ;-) ). Well I would say that I would like to see a woman devoted to her country. She should be interested in all sorts of problems but she should be away from political. She would bring stability to the Monarchy and she will have to show that she is not useless nor wasteful. She would be a little bit strict and would make people respect her easily. She will have to be close of her religion and be interested and will have to show a respect to the other religions in her country. She should be a caring mother who touchs her children in front of the public. She would be a modern woman but I would hate a fashionista. A queen is not a superficial star from Hollywood. Oh my God… What is happening? I’m dreaming about a queen?! I need a big bottle of strong coffee…

    By lilyfromfrance on February 9th, 2007 at 3:35 pm

  24. Ha ha, Lily. For a Frenchwoman you’ve got it absolutely right. :-)

    By John on February 9th, 2007 at 3:39 pm

  25. Lily Diana didnt had bulimia before her mariage.She was a perfectly happy and very down to earth girl,leading a quiet and rather modest life in a time where most of the people were doing sex and drugs freely,the late 70s.As for William,if you read my message carefully i was pointing out why only Dianas suitablity is being mentioned,and not Williams or Kates or Camillas or Charles.Edward was meant to be King too,but you saw what happened.If William was admiting he was openly gay,i doubt he would have become KIng.You should read a very on the spot article about Todays Monarchy from a political editor,published today.He talks about what will happen after the Queen.And again you havent reading my messages carefully,i said the press is desperate to marry William,cause with all these partying,dithering and avoiding serious duties,he has lost his potential.Some years ago,his official visit would have been frontpage cause people were interested in him in relation with how he would have changed the Monarchy and modernised it.Now the majority of the people,have started saying,he is like his father,he does nothing,he is just another Windsor,he wont change anything,he seems cold and very reserved,he has a fake image.So he,as a character,as a person he doesnt sell anymore.While the drunken pics do sell,cause people are interesting to see how Dianas boys are ending up.If he gets engaged or marries,interest will start again,cause people will want to see the new Princess,the ne family the new kids/Thats why they are desperate to marry him,cause he byhimself now,at his 25 seems to have nothing to offer.People are seeing these pics and say,look at them,waisted in drinks,spoiled brats.It has already started.That was my point.Kate cant be compared to Camilla,she is a girl who hasnt slept with a married man,hasnt caused distress and unhapiness to another woman(although many William fans will say differently hehehe).She has a University education,and she seems to be a nice girl.But all that has been lost due to the 18 months of sitting around doing nothing,rather than partying and vacationing,waiting for a mariage.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 6:00 pm

  26. “Kate…hasn’t caused distress and unhappiness to another woman (although many William fans will say differently, hehehe).” Can you elaborate, shake?

    By Evelyn on February 9th, 2007 at 7:36 pm

  27. Of course.I meant William has many female fans who will be unhappy to see him marrying so young.He may have lost his looks,but still has his fans.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 7:42 pm

  28. So… unhappy because they’ll be losing their chance? Many of them may not be any more suitable to be Queen than Kate.

    By Evelyn on February 9th, 2007 at 7:46 pm

  29. Its a joke Evelyn.Just as Many women were sad whne Prince Andrew got Married Fergie cause he was the most popular Prince until then.Just as when Prine Felipe got married many Spanish and European women got sad.The same when Prince Nikolaos marries,many of us Greek girls will be sad.Cause he is a hunk.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 7:57 pm

  30. Sorry, shake. Your posts don’t come off as humorous jokes; they come off as rants. That’s one of the difficulties with cyberspace. Sorry.

    By Evelyn on February 9th, 2007 at 8:05 pm

  31. Oh thats where this was going.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 8:14 pm

  32. Shake, I read your posts very carefully. Only the sentence “you are too harsh” was for you. In the rest of my post, the word “you” was destinated to the people who waste their time to argue about the suitability of a prince and of a girl who they don’t know personally. ;-)

    By lilyfromfrance on February 9th, 2007 at 8:26 pm

  33. Ok Lily.I missunderstood/But even then i dont agree with this we dont know them personal thing.William and Kate have choices.She can walk out,she has probably understand its going to be very bad and difficult.And William,well there is always harry behind him if he doesnt want it.He seems like a trapped animal lately,trying to escape throu drinking.He lost his looks so quick,that one of my friends a year ago told me,that its probably he is sick inside,he is troubled and it shows in his face,and hair,and cause he has buried everything inside,which can probably be cheap mentality but it can probably be true too.We judge what we see Lily./We maybe wrong,we maybe right.Especialy in Williams case,most people have an opinion,mostly on what Ch spin machine have sold of him.Happy setled close with his father,and Camilla.
    But i wonder,it must be hard to desperately always worry not to upstage your needy daddy,cause he will get jealous.Desperately try to keep your daddy happy.Desperately hiding behind drinks./Desperately to always appear happy.while having the mistress shoved in your throat.Sometime it will come out.Both he and Harry receive no advice,and its very clear,the poor Queen havent got any power to interfere.I cant believe she is happy seeing these pics every day in the papers.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 8:56 pm

  34. You bring up a good point, shake– Charles’ known jealousy over being upstaged by another royal. Perhaps that’s why William’s and Harry’s current charity work isn’t enough for many people. Maybe they’re wary of doing too much and upstaging Charles, the same way Diana did. Of course they have to do some, so they do. But better not to do too much and upset Charles.

    As you’ve mentioned, Charles still has “the power of the purse” until they’re 25 and come into their own inheritance. They may then feel they are more able to do the work they want to do.

    Until then, it’s just the army. That may help them prepare to be leaders, to understand those who serve in the military, who they will be supporting and inspiring in any military conflict.

    Does anyone know what they will receive when they turn 25?

    By Evelyn on February 9th, 2007 at 9:11 pm

  35. I can’t believe she is happy to see that too. I’m sure she is very terrified about the future of the Monarchy after she will disappear. But I’m sure the boozing will stop soon. For the moment it is like if there was some indulgence, because they are young, or because they are the last link to the beloved Diana. There is pics, but no hard critizicms from the newspapers. I give them 1 or 2 years. After that, and after the 10th birthday of their mother’s death, they will exhaust the public opinion more seriously. Boys… hurry on enjoying!
    Anyway, that isn’t so funny, a Greek and a French talking about the British Monarchy?

    By lilyfromfrance on February 9th, 2007 at 9:16 pm

  36. Evelyn: William turns 25 in June. Harry is just 22.

    By John on February 9th, 2007 at 9:21 pm

  37. I like a Greek and a French person talking about the British Monarchy. It shows you’re interested. ;-)

    By John on February 9th, 2007 at 9:23 pm

  38. Charles is already in the wills money.He considers them his,cause most of them came from the divorce setlement.Diana gave most of her personal fortune to a secret charity she had set up after her mariage,a bulk of 500000 pounds are still there i think in the charity.They were to get all the money at 25,but Charles demanded this to change so they will only get a year sum.Its wellknown Sarah and her mother were at odds with Charles over this.(They were the ones who controled the money)After 21,both Princes agreed their father and one of his close friends will join their Aunt controlling the money.Both of them had received money from their mother and her family,during their gap year,and their Aunt wantd them to get all the money by 25.Also they receive incomes from the share Diana had from investments and houses-land the 4 Spencer children shared..Iam sure they got many from their grandmother too,while Queens mums money are tied until they are 40.They even get a part of the lease from Londons most historical house,the Spencer house.Spencers still owns it,but have leased it to Lord Rotchild for 50 years i think.I find this excuse very cheap,cause it means both boys have no backbone to stand up to their father.Iam sure the Queen would have protected William,if William was to tell her,i want to take up public duties,but iam afraid Dad will attack me.Iam sure the Queen would have wanted the popular heir in the first row with her.This situation suits William,at least in the begining when he wanted to avoid dutiesNow i think he has understand how he trapped in his father world,and it has hurted his popularity heavily but he doesnt do anything,dithering.Harry is more popular cause he seems far more independent,far more powerfull,far more rebelous and more like his mother/

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 9:24 pm

  39. Well my family had strong ties from both sides of my parents with the Exs my grandparents mostly.Now of course,we are disgusted with them.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 9:26 pm

  40. “William turns 25 in June. Harry is just 22.”

    Yes, I know. But does anyone know what they will inherit when they turn 25? I remember reading (here or elsewhere) that they will receive their inheritance from Diana then. If that is the case, what will their inheritance include? Property? Jewels? Money?

    By Evelyn on February 9th, 2007 at 9:28 pm

  41. We will see lily.Havent seen anything yet that shows they will do more.Williams scedule has about more 3 years doing stints in the army,which means just larking around playing with the 3 guns.As for their mothers 10 death anniversary.You know my opinion.They are only doing it,cause they had to,the Spencers were determined to organise big things,and if the boys werent doing anything,it would have been huge Pr disaster.They anounced it a day before the inquiry cover up,to bury it,and havent heard anything about it yet,not even new tickets are out yet.They have said many times,they want all this affair buried so they can continue with their partying.I find the whole concert laughable,and the memorial another Pr exercise to make Camilla acceptable.I just hope,The Spencers will bring along all their kids,tall handsome beautifull and regal.Imagine seeing them on one side,tall and proud,and at the other side,the short chubie Royals,with Camilla smiling.I cant wait.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 9:32 pm

  42. In her lifetime, Evelyn, Diana was said to be worth £18 million ($35m). She passed some of that to her other family, but much went to William and Harry. I’d have to do some research on the will to give you more details.

    By John on February 9th, 2007 at 9:34 pm

  43. I think they also have the rights to her name,that could bring alot of money,but they havent done anything yet to claim or protect it.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 9:38 pm

  44. Nothing has passed to the Spencers.She left all the money she had to her sons.Its very clear from her will.She also letter that famous letter afterwards where she wrote about her will,that a sum should also to her godchildren and that she wished the Jewels she weared and had as a Royal,to be passed on to hers sons wife.Her sister and mother gave 50000 to Paul Burell and a few others who were close to her,working with her for years,i think her driver and dresser.William and Harry collected what they wanted from the house,afterwards it has left uncared,so butlers and servants took what they wanted,until the Spencers interefered,and asked the Royals if William and Harry were willing to get her stuff out from Kp in order to protect them.The boys answered throu their father,they didnt wanted anything,so everything was taken to Althorp.The boys didnt even took their pics with her./Not even her letters./Harry if i remember well,Charles Spencer said,has visited Althorp museum and asked if he could take some pics,and of course,he took everything he wanted.He was supposed also to be the one who supported the Diana museum in Althorp,while William was agreeing with his Dad that it should close.

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 9:46 pm

  45. Here is her will.Patrick was Replaced by Sarah,her sister/

    By shake on February 9th, 2007 at 9:51 pm

  46. This is the problem with the Prince of Wales having the independent income from the Duchy of Cornwall. In Charles’ case, it has made him think he can do anything he wants and has enabled him to totally ignore the advice and instructions of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. He is entirely out of hand. As for whomever it was who commented that they think the reason Prince William and Prince Harry are careful about doing to many public service events because it is dangerous to outshine Charles, I agree completely. Charles needs to be taken down a peg or two, or, as my Grandmother would say, he should be shaken until his teeth fall out. :)

    By Gigi on February 9th, 2007 at 11:21 pm

  47. Hey, Gigi, glad to hear you agree with me! Yes, heaing how Diana viewed things, it sounds to me like Charles’ ego has gotten a bit too big. At this point, William may be quite wise to go along with almost anything that Charles says. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if Diana advised William and Harry to be careful not to cross their father.

    By Evelyn on February 10th, 2007 at 12:14 am

  48. Gigi, I agree with your completely Charles is just a little too old to have temper tantrums!!! The difference between Charles and his sons being Charles was bowed and scraped to his entire life and no one had the audacity to say no. William and Harry on the other hand had Diana who treated them as normal children. No HRH and bowing by staff to them. They were simply William and Harry and Diana would simply tell them NO!! and give them chores to do for pocket money. Unfortunatly Charles ego is bigger than the monachy itself.

    By Trudie on February 10th, 2007 at 12:29 am

  49. Re: Shake concerning Diana’s personal belongings.

    How could her sons, aged 15 and 13, make a decision concerning their mothers belonging? Everything should have been put in storage until they were old enough to decide what to do. Obviously they were too distraught to make an intelligent decision because Harry requested some of her photos from Althorp when he visted there.

    By Elizabeth Harris on February 10th, 2007 at 4:39 am

  50. A Queen as well as a King, as mere mortals and not Gods, should be lovely people who do their best.

    By Positive on February 10th, 2007 at 5:18 am

  51. Oh please.AGain the age excuse./15 years old,William was supposed to be very mature.I dont think its difficult to say,lets protect her stuff.Harry has shown he remembers his mum,and was closer to her.But again they have no backbone.They didnt protected her name,or legacy.They are grown ups now.Oh i forgot they are still young.When they get old,we will say,they are old.Excuses are easy.Being responsible and hardworking with some honor and pride is difficult.

    By shake on February 10th, 2007 at 9:28 am

  52. My point is,that the “boys”have always problems when there is to honor their mother or her family.But when its about Camilla,their father or her kids,they are mature and grown ups and have no problem.They went to every wedding every celebration every funeral there was for Camillas fasmily.They have repeatedly snubbed their mothers family.They havent got warm words for their mother,they say very few and rather distant words,while they very easily say big and great words for Camilla.They use the young and immature excuse when its about partying,duties,and scandals.But when its about their father and Cams,they are grown ups and mature and can talk about them and honor them.

    By shake on February 10th, 2007 at 10:54 am

  53. Charles and Camilla also would have more opportunities to “coach” the princes in the proper behavior. It’s quite possible that the princes are coached more in what to say about Charles and Camilla, and suggest that they don’t need to talk much about Diana– “Keep those things to yourselves. Your mother wouldn’t want to be mentioned in the press all the time.”

    The same could be true for calendar engagements– make sure events for Charles’ and Camilla’s families get on the calendar early, but somehow overlook those for Diana’s family.

    Yes, the princes *could* be responsible and do other than what their father coaches them to do. But if Charles has the purse strings, if Diana coached them not to cross their father, they might be reluctant to do so.

    By Evelyn on February 10th, 2007 at 3:36 pm

  54. Thats the excuse that fits the case,so they wont get criticized for actually doing nothing for Diana or her family.William will be 25 in the summer.Lets see how independent he will become,and how he will behave.And then lets wait until he marries,and then until he is 30,etc,etc.

    By shake on February 10th, 2007 at 4:37 pm

  55. It is well-known that when Charles is unhappy for any reason that he is unbelievably petty and vindictive, both to his staff and to his family. I have no doubt that Prince William and Prince Harry have been witnesses to this dark side of Charles and have often been the victims of his nasty, crabbed, bad temper. There is no escape for them while Charles controls their lives because neither the Queen nor the Duke of Edinburgh have had any success curbing Charles. The Princes are doing what they have to do to keep their heads above water in a negative home environment. The age/maturity of Prince Harry and Prince William is irrelevant. There is no remedy to Charles’ tyranny over his sons. If there had been, the Queen and Prince Phillip would have found it.

    By Gigi on February 10th, 2007 at 6:35 pm

  56. Anyone saw them in the Rugby game today?Harry looked so annoyed with his brother that he changed his seat in the second half.Tv was showing them constantly,Kate was there too,and Harry seemed very annoyed with them.Hmmm.

    By shake on February 10th, 2007 at 6:51 pm

  57. Also isnt William head of the Wales rugby team?Cheering and yelling for England,what does that make him?Harry has been critisized for supporting England,cause his name is Harry Wales.William who holds a very official role for Welsh rugby?Iam sure there will be no criticism for him.

    By shake on February 10th, 2007 at 6:52 pm

  58. Actually, I read that William has been criticized for cheering for England and not Wales. He attended a game in Wales not long ago. The comment that I read was that William cheering at one game would not be enough to satisfy the Welsh. So he has been criticized for it. And he has tried to do something about it, though he’s criticized that it isn’t enough.

    By Evelyn on February 10th, 2007 at 6:58 pm

  59. Someone should teach William that when a national Anthem is played ,you take of your hat.Especialy if it concerns your grandmother.This guy is in the army?

    By shake on February 10th, 2007 at 8:19 pm

  60. :( Prince William did not remove his hat when the British National Anthem was played?! He should have removed it and placed his hand over his heart. What was he thinking? What did Prince Harry do during the playing of the National Anthem, did anyone notice?

    By Gigi on February 10th, 2007 at 9:31 pm

  61. Harry did removed the woolen hat he was wearing.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 12:16 am

  62. Shake, re: the Princes’ inheritance, The Times newspaper’s blogger Peter Stothard reported that Prince William would receive 250,000 pounds a year from his mother’s estate. The best part is that the bulk of this money comes not from the divorce settlement but from the Spencer estate. I’d link to The Times article but it uses a rude phrase. (Is that why you didn’t publish my comment the first time, John? :) )

    By Christine G on February 11th, 2007 at 4:00 am

  63. i saw the pictures at the rugby game… i didn’t think that harry looked irritated with william or kate; just extremely bored! like super bored. in fact, he was even listening to an iPod or mp3 player or something of the sort. i only saw pictures, but they must have been when all three of them were together. did he move to a different locale in the stadium, shake? or did he just leave? because if he moved, that would suggest something was wrong… :(

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 4:58 am

  64. I don’t get rugby games here in the US, forsome odd reason in Panama they did show it on cable LOL… anyways, I do not understand it LOL…

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 4:59 am

  65. just curious, what qualities does kate possess that would make her an excellent queen? i’m not saying or implying that she would’nt… it just that many of you seem convinced that she would and i’m curious to why. oh yes – besides her degree. ;)

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:00 am

  66. I recommend everyone to check out the pictures they have in Yahoo! News…. well, “miss I don’t like Paparazzi”, kept smiling at the camera, she knew were it was..or was it a mere coincidence????

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 5:05 am

  67. **correction!**
    i said that harry was listening to an iPod or mp3 player… i guess that it might’ve been a radio you get at rugby matches which allows you to hear what the refs saying… i’m not 100% sure about that either, but it makes more sense. :D

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:08 am

  68. who knows ziny?… but yes, she was definitely all smiles.

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:09 am

  69. …and looking directly too the camera…the shots are all from the same angle, with zoom ins and zoom outs…

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 5:13 am

  70. that’s true… she wasn’t looking directly at the cameras though. trying to keep it blasé, no? ;)

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:15 am

  71. not in all the pics but in many… so she’s acting all nice cause she knows there’ss someone taking pics.. you can also see that in the last ones Harry is not there…

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 5:19 am

  72. hmm… i didn’t see those pics. where exactly on yahoo are they? could you post a link?

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:26 am

  73. Link

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 5:27 am

  74. thanks ziny!… you’re right; he’s gone! how weird. do you know if he moved to a different seat or just left?

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:30 am

  75. shake seems to think that he moved. where are you shake??

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:30 am

  76. don’t know… maybe shake knows, I thin she watched the game.

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 5:31 am

  77. btw, there are some good pics on justjared.com. just scroll down… they’re towards the bottom.

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:32 am

  78. He moved to another part of the stadium.Harry was listening to radio commentary.Anyone catched Guy Pelly seating close to Wllie and Kate?

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 8:55 am

  79. Anyone read the latest about Charles best friend?Heheheheh.The family man married of four?Whom his wife happens tobe Williams godmother?And William has named him one of his mentors?Read the latest at the NOTW.Ahh,what great inviroment they were raised in.Fake mariages.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 9:07 am

  80. Christine,The Spencers cant do any good,havent you heard?They are the bad ones along with Diana the dead mad girl.As i said,they wanted to give all the money as soon as possible,cause there is a chance they will get blamed that they want to keep them.Charles is the one who wants the money to be controled by him,until the boys are mature enough to get them and use them.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 9:09 am

  81. Christine: Your comment was probably caught in the spam trap. We would have let it through and it’s probably up now.

    I should tell you, the new software doesn’t send you your own comments as the old plugin did, just everybody else’s. That’s probably why you don’t realize it’s up now.

    Oh, and would you please not post long links. They break the sidebar in some older browsers, like IE6. I’ve converted them all to text links, which is quite easy to do. It only takes a minute or two to learn how to do it.

    By John on February 11th, 2007 at 11:31 am

  82. Some update in the Rugby appearance.It was an unofficial photocall.The press was tipped,that Kate and Willie will be there too,along with Harry who is always there when he is out of his barracks.It seems the Palace wanted to pass the message,that Willie and Kate arent only partying but do other things together too.Seems to me,Harry was angry cause of the whole fakeness and spin.I was right again saying he looked very annoyed with the show Willie and Kate were putting for reporters and he went and sat elsewhere.Iam having a feeling for some time now,that Harry cant stand anyone of them,and prefers to be with Chelsy and her family as much as he can.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 12:24 pm

  83. sorry about that John :(

    By Ziny on February 11th, 2007 at 3:31 pm

  84. that is weird that he moved. :S and no, i didnt see guy pelly. he was there?

    By s.s. on February 11th, 2007 at 5:45 pm

  85. He was there,seating just down TVS.By the way i forgot to mention that Williams mentor who was just exposed by the NOTW,is the close friend Prince Charles has placed as a Trustee in Williams and Harrys inheritance.Some update in the Rugby appearance.It was an unofficial photocall.The press was tipped,that Kate and Willie will be there too,along with Harry who is always there when he is out of his barracks.It seems the Palace wanted to pass the message,that Willie and Kate arent only partying but do other things together too.Seems to me,Harry was angry cause of the whole fakeness and spin.I was right again saying he looked very annoyed with the show Willie and Kate were putting for reporters and he went and sat elsewhere.Iam having a feeling for some time now,that Harry cant stand anyone of them,and prefers to be with Chelsy and her family as much as he can.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 6:53 pm

  86. :( If I remember correctly, the Duke of Westminster was one of Charles close friends who was especially supportive of Charles’ continued adultery with Camilla and was sneeringly critical of Princess Diana from the beginning of Diana’s marriage to Charles. Just one more rotten apple in an entire barrel of Charles’ elite little club of corrupt cronies. :( I have a sinking feeling that we are rapidly returning to the days when the many sons of George III were so corrupt and dissolute that the reputation of the Crown was very nearly fatally damaged.

    By Gigi on February 11th, 2007 at 7:43 pm

  87. Yep.He was among those who provided safe houses for the adorable couple.Now thats a great mentor for William.And then i expect William to turn out differently,and honor and remember his mother.Iam sure now,he actually believes what all this set believes.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 8:06 pm

  88. My money is still on Princess Diana and the influence she had on the Princes, the love and care she lavished on them while she lived. Somehow, in the fullness of time, the Princes will come to their senses, remember all the things their Mother taught them and they will reject Charles and his corrupt ways. Let us hope this happens sooner rather than later. In the meantime, I would be grateful if the Queen would try a bit harder to exert some influence. If there is anyone in the UK who should have nothing to fear from Charles and his temper, it should be the Queen. I frankly would like to see her lose HER temper with Charles and pin his ears back a bit! :)

    By Gigi on February 11th, 2007 at 8:17 pm

  89. Well Gigi,i see no influence from Diana at least on William.Harry seems to have something,but i wonder for how long?They both have sold out very quick and rather easily.

    By shake on February 11th, 2007 at 8:55 pm

  90. Give it a chance, Shake. I just have a feeling that things are going to turn out well in the end. I believe that God loves England too much to allow the young Princes to be permanently damaged by evil influences. The hymn says “…If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts…” Let us hope that Prince William and Prince Harry hear the voice of God and turn away from the wrong path.

    By Gigi on February 11th, 2007 at 9:22 pm

  91. They dont even go to church.

    By shake on February 12th, 2007 at 4:05 am

  92. Don’t worry, no one is beyond the reach of the Almighty. That was the point of the story of Jonah and the Whale, remember?

    By Gigi on February 12th, 2007 at 5:28 am

  93. Hehhehe,Gigi.You are remarkable.But sorry you saw how Charles is beyond reach.He even managed to bend the church and bring things how he wanted them.Everyday details and information emerging about the lurid life of Charles and his closest people who are Williams mentors.When Diana was saying all that,she was called mad.Her sons will probably believe now she was,after so much brainwash.No wonder he couldnt say a few great words for her,only fun.I dont expect him to be any better than Charles,in fact he could become worse,cause he was given too much freedom,and too much adoration and too many excuses.AT least Charles began duties much more sooner than him.

    By shake on February 12th, 2007 at 5:43 am

  94. Charles is an aberration, I HOPE! He is a Hanoverian nightmare. I also believe in genetics and I am counting on Princess Diana’s genes to see the boys through this rough patch.

    By Gigi on February 12th, 2007 at 6:00 am

  95. Hehehhe.What can i say.William has said so many times he is fathers son a country boy,and so much like his Dad who is his role model.Dianas genes have dissapred from WIlliam,even from his looks.

    By shake on February 12th, 2007 at 6:46 am

  96. William spended part of his gap year sleeping in the house where his father and stepmummy used as a safe house to cheat on Diana.His mentors are people who backstabbed Diana.

    By shake on February 12th, 2007 at 8:37 am

  97. John, I think Queen Elizabeth has set wonderful but very high example of what a Queen should be like. Nobody’s perfect and it will be hard to attain her level of dedication, but if Charles and William are even half as good she, good for them.

    By Positive on February 12th, 2007 at 11:49 am

  98. From the extremely small amount of news we receive about the royal family here in the US, I think his concerns about the environment and natural farming, etc. are laudable. At least he’s not riding around pretending he’s a rancher, like some people, tall hat and no cattle, no clue. LOL

    By Positive on February 12th, 2007 at 11:56 am

  99. Charles is extremely knowledgable about green things and agriculture, Pos. He’s very well-meaning, but gets a bad press here largely because of the Diana period when he was seen as the cause of all the problems.

    My view, is that the causes were divided equally on both sides. But at least Charles owned up to his mistakes.

    By John on February 12th, 2007 at 12:03 pm

  100. Are you serious John?Diana is dead for so many years,and Charles still gets so much bad press.He makes the one mistake after the other.With his vulgarity and extreme lifestyle.And he owned up to his mistakes?When?Only Diana said she take half of the blame.Just still blame all the others but himself.
    Well iam tired.I guess i was wrong to start posting here again.
    What fantasies.

    By shake on February 12th, 2007 at 12:22 pm

  101. Anyone who wants to contact me,John has my email.

    By shake on February 12th, 2007 at 12:30 pm

  102. We never pass on emails, Shake. Code of practice.

    Elizabeth: Charles pays a flat 25% tax on his income, which is probably more than most businesses pay by the time their accountants have been to work.

    I’ll admit he can be odd — but not that odd. :-)

    By John on February 12th, 2007 at 3:33 pm

  103. so, i asked a question earlier, but no one answered it. avoiding perhaps? however, in the off chance that it was completely overlooked, i will restate it –
    what qualities does kate possess that would make her an excellent queen? i’m not saying or implying that she would’nt be… it just that many of you seem convinced that she would and i’m curious to why.

    By s.s. on February 12th, 2007 at 10:10 pm

  104. that is, besides her degree.

    By s.s. on February 12th, 2007 at 10:11 pm

  105. In my opinion, her qualities that make her eligible to be a good queen include: good manners, a devotion to prince William, attractive and has the ability to dress appropriately for the occasion, intelligent, charming, and right minded, in the sense that she has the right instincts. Best of all, she is an English girl. As proved by the Queen Mother and Princess Diana, the best Royal Consorts in my memory, the best wives and mothers, have been English girls. It is also a good thing that she has been raised in a loving home where the parents had a stable marriage and are still together, as in the case of the parents of the Queen Mother. Character counts, and character develops best in a happy childhood with loving parents.

    By Gigi on February 13th, 2007 at 12:38 am

  106. I forgot to add one more thing, the most important thing. Prince William loves her and she very obviously loves him!

    By Gigi on February 13th, 2007 at 12:51 am

  107. thanks for your input gigi! my only comment would be that the qualities you listed make for a great personality, yes. public figure, supporter (and as such, partial advisor) to william, only time will tell. ;)

    By s.s. on February 13th, 2007 at 1:14 am

  108. Very nicely said in both of your posts Gigi. She seems a decent girl, not showgirl pretty, but William gets high marks from me because he didn’t pick a beauty queen, no pun intended. This young woman has impressed me from Day 1 with her discretion and they way she has conducted herself publicly. The other thing that strikes me is the closeness she and her immediate family enjoy. I think it’s great that she spends alot of time with her mother while her mother is still a young and vibrant woman who can remember what it is like to be in love for the very first time. Kate’s family life, I’m strictly guessing, I think could be a big part of William’s attraction to her. The Ibiza pictures of them (Kate, her sis, her mother, her brother, their significant others, and William) all huddling on that yacht with their heads together was intimate and revealing to me.

    As Shake has alleged here many times, William’s homelife is rotten. Apparently absent father, selfish stepmother, with William and Harry the odd men out and left to their own devices. If BIG IF there is any truth to this, then Kate’s family is probably a safe haven for him. I’m guessing.

    By Positive on February 13th, 2007 at 2:18 am

  109. SS: Gigi is spot on, I think. Add to that her ability to cope under media pressure (she does seem relaxed most of the time) and that all makes for someone who could comfortably grow into the job.

    We certainly don’t need a drama queen (pun intended). The country needs a long period of quiet duty and stability at the top.

    She’s also poised and friendly and the country overwhelmingly supports her in polls. It amazes me that anyone could oppose her, especially on minor points that they personally don’t like.

    By John on February 13th, 2007 at 9:34 am

  110. she copes with the media??? Then why are her lawyers wanting to sue ??? She is not the Princess of Monaco (who was born a princess…

    By Ziny on February 13th, 2007 at 12:16 pm

  111. She’s also poised and friendly and the country overwhelmingly supports her in polls. It amazes me that anyone could oppose her, especially on minor points that they personally don’t like.

    By John on February 13th, 2007 at 9:34 am

    Oh John, you should read some of the vitriol that is hurled at her and her family nonstop by some people. It’s vicious John. William has found a nice, decent girl — anytime a former teacher has very nice things to say, how no one had a mean thing to say about her at school, how she was liked by everyone, etc., I’m inclined to believe that more than her peers. And still some despise her — well it’s a very small minority who hang out on the internet so it is taken with a grain of salt. But really I’m ashamed for some people.

    By Positive on February 13th, 2007 at 12:30 pm

  112. look….. she might be “perfect” as you so believe, but I know there has to be something there…No one is perfect.. not me, and most certainly not you.

    By Ziny on February 13th, 2007 at 12:32 pm

  113. she’s got some good qualities to be a queen, but then she also has some stuff against her….

    By Ziny on February 13th, 2007 at 12:32 pm

  114. Every other candidate also would have some things in her favor and others against. I don’t think any of us are saying she’s “perfect.” I don’t know that William should wait and keep looking until he finds the “perfect” bride. He might, in the end, end up settling for someone who looked like a likely candidate, but didn’t have his heart. If William loves Kate (first and foremost), if she is willing to take on the job, if there are no blatant disqualifications, then she should be a good wife and consort.

    By Evelyn on February 13th, 2007 at 6:28 pm

  115. Coping well with the media and stemming the excesses of the media are two different things. Kate does, indeed, cope well with the media and accepts with grace the pressures of being Prince William’s girlfriend. Nevertheless, she and her parents were wise to have their lawyers legally warn the media to keep a certain perimeter. No one, I hope, would wish a return to the dreadful behavior of the media during Princess Diana’s final days. Those photographers are like a pack of wild dogs, they need to be pushed back occasionally or they run amok.

    I reject any comparisons between the British Royals and the Royals of the House of Grimaldi that favor the Royals of Monaco. They may have been born into a princely house, but Princess Grace (who was not born Royal) was the only one of them who behaved as if she was Royal. There has been enough melodrama in Monaco to fill volumes of tabloids.

    Hmm…I sound quite huffy! :)

    By Gigi on February 13th, 2007 at 7:01 pm

  116. You don’t write for the Huffington Post, do you, Gigi? ;-)

    By John on February 13th, 2007 at 7:15 pm

  117. :) No, I don’t write for anyone. I am a housewife. :) But I was an English/Journalism major in college and I believe in the Canons of Journalism. The media today ignores those Canons and that is why I am huffy. :) I think. :) Myabe I am just huffy on general principles!

    By Gigi on February 13th, 2007 at 9:21 pm

  118. i certainly hope you weren’t referring to me when you made the comment, “It amazes me that anyone could oppose her, especially on minor points that they personally don’t like” john. i tried to make it very clear that i was just interested in everyone’s opinion as to why kate would make an excellent consort. regardless of pointless accusations some have made and then later been unable to corroborate, i have never said anything that could be twisted to even sound like dislike. certainly, i have pointed out some areas of her conduct which seem questionable (such as the threat to sue the press, while shortly thereafter appearing to be on grand terms with the aforementioned, smiles and all). i wasn’t aware the such statements were perceived as vitriol. :D i guess the only way to please people on here is to say only what kate herself would like to hear. ;)

    By s.s. on February 13th, 2007 at 10:22 pm

  119. You don’t write for the Huffington Post, do you, Gigi?

    By John on February 13th, 2007 at 7:15 pm

    John, I LOVE HuffingtonPost!! Especially the comments! LOL :-)

    By Positive on February 14th, 2007 at 1:20 am

  120. What is the Huffington Post? Positive, could you provide a link, please?

    By Gigi on February 15th, 2007 at 12:01 am

  121. Gigi, you can find it at http://www.huffingtonpost.com

    By Evelyn on February 15th, 2007 at 4:11 am

  122. Thanks, Evelyn! :)

    By Gigi on February 15th, 2007 at 4:09 pm

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