Is Kate Middleton about to be engaged?
Once again we enter familiar territory: will they, won’t they?
I refer, of course, to that pair of star-tossed lovers, Prince William and Kate Middleton.
They have spent some time together up in arctic Birkhall on the Balmoral Estate in Scotland, causing the usual flurry of anticipation and speculation in the British press and more distant publications around the globe.
I have held off writing about this because I have been here before. Many times before. Too many times before to want to go through the rigmarole again.
However, since events are coming to a head on Friday — Kate’s 27th birthday — and next week, when William begins up to seven years’ service with the RAF, Royal Anecdotes has to say something about the situation.
Firstly, I suspect William joined Charles and Camilla up in Birkhall because of the Queen’s wish not to have the second-in-line to the Throne following the playboy circuit abroad at a time of grave economic stress for her subjects.
The apparent invitation to Kate’s parents, Carole and Michael, may have been out of simple politeness. After all, their daughter has been left dangling for seven years. A Royal expression of favour would make a lot of difference to an ordinary family in extraordinary circumstances.
At the very least Kate’s loyalty deserves a word or two about their future prospects, if only to discourage that dismissive nickname, Waity Katie.
Of course, the elaborate build-up now may be just be a nice way of acknowledging her steadfast friendship without damaging her reputation. As the years of service go by, William would then feel free to find someone else. Kate would more than likely do the same. This feels more like a fanfare and send-off for a Prince about to dedicate a fair portion of his life to dangerous public service.
We won’t know until William is safely tucked up in his new training school. If it hasn’t happened then, it probably never will.
I have to say, there’s very little obvious activity suggesting a Royal engagement right now. But a low-key announcement can’t be entirely ruled out.
My gut tells me that the Royals would not be going out of their way to protect Kate or her family if this relationship was over, or simply just a friendship. Have they ever done that for anyone else?
I’m trying not to get my hopes up too much for a happy announcement, but I confess I’m very excited as this week progresses! =)
By Claire on January 7th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
We would all be delighted, Claire, especially for Kate herself.
We shall see.
By John on January 7th, 2009 at 4:09 pm
Thank you for your thoughts, John…I had been waiting patiently for your post. As much as I would love an engagement announcement, I also believe it was just a send-off with a supportive gesture towards the Middleton’s from the RF. I do hope that I am terribly wrong!
By Myra on January 7th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Just for the sake of taking away her nickname Waity Katy, I’d love an engagement, but I think this will be a long term bf/gf relationship until later on its a make it or break it.
By Me on January 7th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
John, I read somewhere that even the Palace staff were surprised when Prince William and Kate left for Birkhall to join Charles and Camilla. I believe that Prince William, who is extremely wary of the news media and maintains an ironclad determination to guard his own prerogative, has taken unusual steps to ‘control the story.’ If this is true, the activity at the Palace, which in the past has telegraphed a signal that a momentous announcement is imminent, may be entirely missing in this instance, because Prince William wills it to be so. We may not be able to rely on the tried and true tactics of the past in second guessing the Royal Family. Here we perceive principals whose souls are stirred by different music and march to the cadence of unfamiliar drums.
By Gigi on January 7th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Gigi, that is the wild card in the pack. William’s love of “smokescreens” is well known. It always makes it difficult to map his trajectory.
He does need to regularize Kate’s position one way or the other though.
By John on January 7th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
I’m hoping for an engagement announcement this week, before Prince William goes away to begin his training, in part so that Kate may be given protection officers. I suspect that part of the reason we see her so rarely is that she’s trailed by media wherever she goes.
By Evelyn on January 7th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
It seems like a lot of stirring the pot (rampant speculation being the pot) for a simple Royal expression of favour to me. It has, predictably, sent the media and all of us into a tizzy of mad speculation, and neither PW nor CM are so naive as to not see that coming. The private dinner in the cabin by the river? Returning to London together, beaming?
I don’t want to get my hopes up. But it sure is interesting…
By Leslie on January 7th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
John, what a brilliant hedge bet-ter you are!
By claudia on January 7th, 2009 at 5:32 pm
I have my own Hedge Fund, Claudia.
But really, I just don’t know about this one. I want to believe it, having propoted this pair for three years, but a nagging doubt sticks in the back of my mind.
By John on January 7th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
Didn’t we go through all this a few years ago on Kate’s birthday, the press convinced themselves that there was going to be an engagement and turned up in great numbers to greet Kate as she tried to go to work that morning? You would think they would have learned their lesson last time, when they got it wrong and instead of admitting they were wrong they turned it all on Kate saying all she does is wait for him to propose etc. Yet here we are – take two! I know that they want to sell papers and I also know that nothing sells like William and Kate (and the will they or won’t they saga) but perhaps the better thing to do would be stop speculating on things they have clearly shown they have no clue about and adopt a wait and see policy. If they do get engaged then there will be plenty of thing to write about and if they do break-up there will be plenty of things for them to write about then too. As far as I can make out William and Kate are just a couple dating, they have never said a thing about an engagement or given away any other details about their relationship and have just continued to live their lives as they have seen fit. To me all these reports seem to come from a disappoint media who are fed up waiting for a new princess to write about and I can really understand why people are getting fed-up with the whole thing.
By Ash on January 7th, 2009 at 5:56 pm
No way is the trip to Scotland just a way of acknowledging a friendship. People who have just broken up do not vacation together with their parents and have romantic dinners. Even William cannot be that clueless, and I’d like to believe that Kate has enough self esteem to not put up with such boloney if the relationship is over. I don’t know that an engagement is coming, but they are certainly more than just friends.
By Kris on January 7th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
I agree with you, Kris– it’s more than just friends. Anyway, it’s too late in the day for an announcement today.
By Evelyn on January 7th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Something is up for the last few months both dropped off the radar now all of a sudden both are back in the media. I don’t see Charles and Cammy inviting the Middletons to Birkhall for the sake of politeness. They are either going to get engaged or break up in the latter scenerio I can see negotiations to guarantee silence from Kate and the Middletons.
I wonder how William qualify’s to train as a pilot? he has poor eyesight and was pictured at Heathrow with Kate and wearing his glasses. Also it is rumoured that he is colorblind. If an engagement is announced I suspect it will be used as backup PR if his military career does not turn out as CH as emphasised in it’s press releases.
By Trudie on January 7th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Arrrrghhhh! I just want to know! Sigh!
By Julie on January 7th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Good point about the two scenarios, Trudie. Though, if it were the latter, what a time to pick for it, being the holidays and just before Kate’s birthday.
On that topic, is it confirmed that the Middletons have been invited to Birkhall? I thought that was just a rumor.
By Maricar on January 7th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
Some rumors said that the Middletons were invited to Birkhall last weekend. Another rumor says that they’re invited to Birkhall this coming weekend, for a celebration for Kate’s birthday. Both are only in the *rumor* stage, as far as I can tell.
By Evelyn on January 7th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Like I said I can hardly see C&C inviting the Middletons out of politeness. Even if these are only rumours I think it would be for the latter. However it is the time of Kates birthday the generally is when the rumour mill starts. When Charles became engaged to Diana, Andrew to Sarah and Sophie to Edward or for that case Anne and her two husbands The Queen and PP did not invite their families to spend a holiday with them. One can only draw their own conclusions.
By Trudie on January 7th, 2009 at 10:32 pm
Some questions that are nagging me:
1. Could this sojourn have been meant as a secret and somehow a terribly unfortunate/mean-spirited leak took place? This is the only way that the “just friends”/”honorable adieu” scenario makes sense.
2. How feasible is the “low-key engagement” scenario? Is the idea that CM has been already “vetted” and various “approvals” needed beyond the RF are already secured “just in case” PW makes up his mind? How did this work for PC and Diana?
By Sojourner on January 8th, 2009 at 3:41 am
Sojourner, we already know how well it worked for PC and Diana – not very well. From what I’ve read, it was an hurried engagement, spurred on by the need for Charles to be married and produce an heir, not a very good reason to get married, especially to the wrong woman. I remember watching the announcement and he seemed ill at ease while she was obviously enamoured of him.
In any case, PW and CM are far more mature – one hopes! – than PC and Diana, but as John has said, it does look as if PW has at least taken a step back from an all-out commitment. Perhaps he has realized the consequences for CM and now is trying to ease the both of them out of it. Unfortunately the press is not letting him off the hook so easily.
Now, if there is a low-level announcement, as John has suggested may happen, there’s still the question of when the wedding would take place and how big a splash the Palace wants to make. Things are so bad right now that the Queen may want to keep it all low-key and not give the impression of spending a lavish amount of money for a Royal wedding.
By NCKat on January 8th, 2009 at 4:29 am
I think PW & KM just go about their business like everybody else, and let the newspapers say anything they want and let the public go crazy with speculation about stuff that is none of their business, and then have a good laugh about it. Either that, or they find all of us (myself included) interested in their lives incredibly annoying. Or maybe it’s both.
By Amity on January 8th, 2009 at 4:30 am
I’m sure they find it all very annoying, too, Amity and can’t help but think if it hadn’t been for all the hoopla surrounding PC and Diana’s marriage, PW and CM wouldn’t have to deal with so much scrutiny. Perhaps I’m wrong.
By NCKat on January 8th, 2009 at 4:46 am
I don’t see how the wedding of the future King will be anything but a big splash. And I think people are expecting it. If they decide to do a low-key wedding (nonsense, IMO), there would be a furious backlash. In any event, there won’t be a wedding for more than a year, by which time, the economy should have turned around.
By Bear on January 8th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
The wedding won’t be low-key, Bear, but an announcement of intent might be.
By John on January 8th, 2009 at 3:07 pm
I apologize of this question has already been asked, but if they do get engaged, what kind of opening would they have to make a wedding? Would he get special leave or is there already a window of opportunity in his schedule?
By Anne on January 8th, 2009 at 3:32 pm
The best window of opportunity in PW’s schedule probably would come at the end of his 18-month SARS training (summer 2010). I don’t know if he could get leave for a royal wedding and honeymoon during the training. I’m not aware of royal engagements longer than 6 months, but this is a new generation, so perhaps there will be a “new normal.”
By Evelyn on January 8th, 2009 at 3:46 pm
Regarding an engagement … I’ll believe it when I see it.
I think that Kate and Wills are still together, that Kate has decided to wait it out. No surprise here.
It seems that perception of Kate is trapped by social class expectations. From the middle-class point of view, a girl who waits around year after year for a proposal is in a demeaning situation. From an aristocratic perspective, being the mistress of a future King is not demeaning at all — it is a plum position.
I agree with John, unless corrobation – from an announcement of something that formalizes her position is received, a marriage appears very unlikely.
By Alicia on January 8th, 2009 at 6:49 pm
This whole situation suddenly brought back vague memories of Prince Felipe of Spain and his first widely-known girlfriend Isabel Sartorius. I seem to remember they were both young (mid 20′s I think) and were subject of intense speculation for at least a year or so. Finally, if I recall correctly, an article reported him saying that the media (or was it that particular reporter?) should not raise the hopes of “a young lady” — or something equally awful. I believe they broke up days after his statements (surprise? NOT).
By Sojourner on January 9th, 2009 at 2:37 am
I’d forgotten that – a good reminder, Sojourner.
By NCKat on January 9th, 2009 at 4:06 am
The situation has reminded me of Prince Felipe and girlfriend Isabel for a while – I just couldn’t remember their names.
By Amity on January 9th, 2009 at 6:16 am
Alicia, there’s no hint of anything on the grapevine about a Royal engagement. I suppose if they’ve organized another Wings-type news blackout that would explain it, but that would totally neutralize the purpose of an announcement.
My guess is that it’s not going to happen this weekend, if ever.
By John on January 9th, 2009 at 10:43 am
Thanks, John, for your website and insights to this interesting and uncertain relationship. Here in the States we don’t hear so much about these two young lovers.
What are some other sources that we can turn to for information? There was a post earlier about getting back to London beaming, and something else…..where can we look for information about that?
Although she would not be our queen, I do like CM and think she is what PW needs, if for no other reason than she is faithful and knows how to keep her mouth shut. Thank you for keeping us current over here across the pond. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that we read a wonderful marriage announcement this week!
Happy New Year to you all!
By Molly on January 9th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
Thanks, Molly. The picture you mention is, I believe, of a bearded William and Kate beaming on their way to a nightclub a few weeks ago. I’ve only seen a few shots of William at Heathrow, and he certainly wasn’t beaming.
You can find these pics on British newspaper sites, like the Daily Mail and the Daily Telegraph. Also the BBC news website. Google will link you with them.
Other sites, like the Star and Express are not really dependable.
By John on January 9th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Molly, here’s a site I find helpful:
http://www.etoile.co.uk/Rnews.html
Volunteers provide links once a day to a number of online news articles about royalty, including the British Royal Family. As John says, some of the sources are more reliable, others less respectable. The lesser sites often just rehash what the better sites have reported. I hope that’s helpful.
By Evelyn on January 9th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Molly, as a fellow yank/anglophile I google KM and click news at the top of the google sources when they come up. All the latest news will appear then from anywhere in the world and you can click on the ones you like!
There are also two other nice, kind web sites that I regularly check if I may mention them. Will and Harry Unlimited ( great source for up to the minute pictures ) and Britishroyalwedding. These are second in interest to Royalanecdotes of course!
If you live anywhere near a Borders or Barnes and Noble book store check out Hello magazine.Its an English weekly which often has stories and great photos of British royal goings on.
By Claudia on January 9th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Why on earth does anyone even question that PW and Kate
will not get married. Why would either one have invested ALL THESE YEARS with each other if marriage was not intended. It seems to me that THEY are just low key and are
playing this game with the MEDIA. I just wish that they
would go ahead and get it over with……They are just such a
beautiful couple and it looks like they are IN LOVE.
By Judy on January 10th, 2009 at 7:39 am
It’s been reported that Berkshire police have decided not to prosecute Kate for using a mobile phone while driving.
It’s been a long time coming. I bet she’s been deeply worried about it. It’s quite a serious offence in Britain and may even carry a jail sentence.
By John on January 10th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
That’s certainly good news, John! I had no idea it was such a serious thing! I wish the laws were stricter where I live…
A wonderful way to start her 27th year…with that worry off her shoulders!
By Claire on January 10th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
The DM (Kate Nicholl) reports that PW went to the Middletons’ for Kate’s birthday celebration:
http://tinyurl.com/8r9otf
But a source is also quoted as PW has no plans to marry until after he finishes his military stint, and there is no hint of an official engagement.
By NCKat on January 10th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
I have gotten to the stage with the whole William and Kate show where I no longer believe sources, they have been wrong too many times in the last 4 years. If there hadn’t been photographs with that article I would not have even believed the part about William being there for Kate’s birthday. A case of once bitten, twice shy. Actually I think I’ve given up speculating on this couple altogether – if they get married they do, if they don’t, they don’t.
However there is another article in the DM I was very surprised to come across. http://tinylink.com/?TEYzsXSmon
“Paki” isn’t a word that you would hear used in Ireland a whole lot. At least where I’m from anyway. Usually if it is used it is by British people or Irish who have lived or are living in the UK. However every time I have heard it used it has never been in a light-hearted, non-malicious way. It was spoken only as an insult and was always received as one by those who heard it spoken. I am a little surprised at Harry for using the word to describe someone, especially a visiting solider.
By Ash on January 10th, 2009 at 11:29 pm
I’m a bit surprised it’s come out now as it’s been two years since he made that remark. One would hope he’s matured by now! He’s apologised, of course but the damage’s been done. One wishes his mother had still been around to manage him – I can’t help but think that if Diana were still alive, Harry might not have gotten in as much trouble as he has.
By NCKat on January 10th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
Yes, the Daily Mail seems to have the scoops this Sunday. The photos of PW’s car at the Middletons’ home, and the story on PH.
The DM also has an article on one of the Queen’s personal designers quitting before Christmas. It will be interesting to see if the Queen’s outfits suffer with the real designer gone.
By Evelyn on January 11th, 2009 at 1:20 am
Poor Harry. I think he means well, it’s just his mouth gets away from him. I suspect language like that is imployed all the time by British and even American soliders. It isn’t right, but I can understand why they would use such language. Prince Harry can’t afford incident like this after the Nazi outfit incident. Once is an abberation, twice tends to indicate a character trait.
By Yami on January 11th, 2009 at 2:11 am
Today’s Daily Mail’s “News”
1. PH uses racist language — two years ago.
Said language is clearly patronizing and demeaning (all racist language is.) Only scoop I see is that no new incidents have been reported since. A sign of increased self-reflection /restraint or a triumph of his media handlers?
2. PW goes to visit the Middleton — as he has done before.
It happened after he went on vacation with CM (who he regularly vacations with) accompanied by PW ‘rents (with whom she is said to be close, and with whom she has vacationed with previously). Only news I see is that the media has chased a British citizen into seclusion — which not news either.
By Sojourner on January 11th, 2009 at 3:10 am
OOOPSY! I did mean to write “PW goes to visit the Middletons.” Sounds rather awful without that little S at the end.
By Sojourner on January 11th, 2009 at 3:15 am
it seems to me that the most common sense explanation is now that they are dating and do care… but it is what it is and nothing more. I don’t think William is ready to take the next step and I feel we will be seeing this on/off business for some time yet : (
By London4704 on January 11th, 2009 at 4:30 am
No speculation that allowing himself to be seen spending the night means anything? The article says he has gone to her house before “in secret” – this time wasn’t secret.
By miki on January 11th, 2009 at 11:26 am
You’re right, Yami. The Army is full of fit young men trained for aggression. They can’t fight each other so they use “aggressive” language as a safety valve. If we want tough, effective forces, we must not expect them to behave according to soft civilian values.
Harry is clearly joshing when he’s filming that scene. After all if you can call a British man a “Brit” without offence, why not a Pakistani man “Paki”? It could as easily be a term of affection as abuse. The man didn’t seem to mind. If he did, he shouldn’t be a soldier.
By John on January 11th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
As has seemed the case for months now, William has put off marriage until the end of his long service with the RAF.
Kate’s mother is right to think her daughter is being “left in limbo”. When William comes out of the RAF in (possibly) seven years, he will probably want a fresh start with someone else. He may be hoping that Kate will have met someone too.
Kate would be well advised to put herself about a bit and hope for a few takers. William may be relieved if she did — at least, that’s what I’m hearing.
By John on January 11th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Hello John,
This is my first post, but I have followed this website for ages. It’s seems from your last post, you think it’s all over for William and Kate. If this is the case why all the public display from them over the last few weeks. Would it not be better to let it all fade away without raising public expectation again?
By Marilyn on January 11th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
Alicia,
But Kate isn’t PW’s mistress. She’s been his public girlfriend for years now with no engagement or formal position in sight. I’m not an expert on the British aristocracy, but I don’t think any of the other girls in that set would be willing to do what Kate does. They would probably do exactly what Camilla did with Charles when she got tired of waiting- marry someone else then take the plum mistress role! Maybe Kate’s middle class background plays a part in why she hangs in there. Maybe she thinks she’s lucky to be where she is.
By Lizzy on January 11th, 2009 at 5:18 pm
“Maybe Kate’s middle class background plays a part in why she hangs in there. Maybe she thinks she’s lucky to be where she is.”
Lizzy,
I agree with your comments – maybe you simply stated it better than I did – social class perspectives are deeply influencing this situation.
Whether we call it “mistress” or “public girlfriend” – it’s still a plum position for now and it’s hard to see what other alternative is just a good. To see its enormous benefits – witness Pippa’s It Girl status. That would not happened if Kate didn’t have the position she has.
My point is that those around William give more respect/status to Kate if she is seeing him than they would if she were merely an old friend from college days.
By Alicia on January 11th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
John, what you are intimating is really sad. I hope KM knows as much as John the Royal Anecdotes guy seems to know. If what you are suggesting is true, that PW may be hoping KM finds someone else and may be relieved if she did and he is still carrying on with her in this public way, then he is a real cad and she is pathetically clueless.
There goes my bubble yet again and it had re-inflated so nicely here recently!!!
By Claudia on January 11th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Camilla knew that in that day and time she had not a chance to marry Charles even if he had been good and ready.
By Claudia on January 11th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
I am a long-time reader but have never felt the need to post a comment until now.
PH obviously used the term “Paki” in jest, as between friends. However, this does not change the fact that most of the time when that term is used it is so in a derogatory manner. By using the term in jest you make it acceptable for people who mean it as an insult to use it as long as they assure you they were “just kidding”.
I am as big a fan of the royal family as you can get. This means I hold them to a standard their rank and privilege expects. John, making a sweeping judgment about army personnel does not make what PH said acceptable.
By Kathy on January 11th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
I should like to make two observations:
First, I am very tired of the media taking potshots at Prince Harry, especially at times when they appear to be resentful because Prince William is successfully evading the media spotlight. Dredging up a snippet of a conversation from three years ago which was comaraderie among soldiers, and making something entirely different of this snippet, is despicable, and, I fear, typical of a spiteful, unethical media.
Second, I hope John is wrong in his suppositions regarding Prince William’s intentions. If Prince William is doing what John suggests, he is far worse than a cad, he is an opportunist, an unfeeling manipulator. I do not believe that he is any of these things, and I continue to hope that all will work out between Kate and Prince William. Nevertheless, if Prince William is stringing Kate along in a manner designed to keep his own image within the circle of damage control, he is a carbon copy of Charles. I do not believe the British Monarchy can survive two heirs who are unprincipled, and self-obsessed.
By Gigi on January 11th, 2009 at 11:09 pm
I agree with you, Gigi. PH has matured a lot and shows great care for others who are in difficult situations just like his mother did. I hope the media stop seeing him as a wild prince.
As for PW and KM, I think PW has changed(again) his mind.
If he wanted let Kate go, I don’t think he would invite her vacationing with PC and C. And, I don’t think PC and C would invite Kate’s parents (if they did) while their son intends to break up with her. Also, he wouldn’t spend a night at the Middletons’ for her birthday “secretly” if he wants break up. I don’t think he is such a rude person to the Middleton who have been very kind to him. PW and Kate had three month of separation and absence from public eye, and they would have been staying that way if PW really wants to end their relationship smoothly.
By Mikado-watcher on January 12th, 2009 at 12:59 am
Just when you thought there were no more scenarios to play out:
LINK
This one claims it is PC putting the breaks on PW/CM relationship because it would fatally upstage his position, by creating a new “Princess Diana.”
I am fond of PC (if that makes me Edwardian too, so be it). Can there possibly be any truth to these very unflattering allegations? Has this story been circulated before? How can this “jive” with the recent vacation?
By Sojourner on January 12th, 2009 at 2:34 am
If William would be “relieved” to be rid of Kate, then he is, as several have said, a cad of the worst sort. He also suffers from exceedingly poor judgement, since this latest round of public activity with Kate has fanned the flames of speculation again, as he surely knew it would. If he is in fact trying to get rid of her, then he and the rest of the royal family are the losers in all of this. Kate will do well to be rid of them.
By Miss Marple on January 12th, 2009 at 5:08 am
Hear! Hear! Miss Marple. I agree heartily!
By Yami on January 12th, 2009 at 9:07 am
Thanks for the link, Sojourner. Incidentally could you use tinyurl.com for long newspaper links, as they break the sidebar in some older browsers?
Normally, I don’t take much notice of the Express — it’s not the most reliable of papers. However, this is by Christopher Wilson, a Royal historian and author. He seems to have left the Mail now, possibly because he was getting over-critical in recent pieces.
This story is maddening because it cuts across signals I’ve been getting for some time, going back to 2007 in fact. These suggest that William has cooled on the relationship with Kate and really doesn’t want marriage now. The RAF stint is presented as a way for him to let it fade away naturally.
What Wilson is saying though is that grumpy old Charles, desperate for attention, is trying to scupper the relationship of his son. There is some slight evidence for that. The last time there was great expectation of an engagement, and it didn’t happen, Kate was reported to have said, “It’s his daddy that did it.”
I don’t know how reliable that quote is, but it chimes with Wilson’s piece.
It may be that both strands are playing at once and William has retreated in confusion to the comfort of the military.
Royal Anecdotes’ advice to him is that, if he really wants to marry Kate, do it and do it soon or tell her it’s over.
One final point, Kate was invited to Birkhall to stay with Charles and Camilla over the New Year, so too apparently were Carole and Michael Middleton. That runs counter to Wilson’s argument.
My suspicions are that William is reluctant to tie the knot and the four parents got together to try to sort it out. It may be as simple as that.
By John on January 12th, 2009 at 10:24 am
I find it hard to believe PW is trying to slowly break up with Kate, via using the military.
If it is true and that is his motive, that for the first time, I’m glad he’ll never be my King. Heartless, classless, crude and immature all come to mind if this is his plan. If he can’t figure out how to properly dump a girl, then I worry about him as a King.
But my view is, he isn’t and they are just keeping out of the public’s eye. Plus the Queen doesn’t need to have some HUGE wedding that will cost the public millions in these economic times.
By American Cousin on January 12th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
I don’t think we can blame william for all this. He is just as much a part of this play as kate. He has let her go before and she has not gone quietly. Throwing herself at him via the media during off points was very common. I think william is being opportunistic with a woman he knows will run to his beckon call anyway and time he likes. What man wouldn’t do the same given such freedom. I do think that he is indecisive, but what does he need to hurry for? he could marry in 10 years and stil be ok. I see many relationships tag on for ages like this, where one party won’t let go and the convenience and familiarity of it make it easy. kate’s not going anywhere and William knows it. It is a two sided game. Would she be so persistant if he were not a royal? I think not!
By london4704 on January 12th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
I have also noted scant evidence that something other than Wills’ reluctance to commit might be preventing an engagement.
First, Kate’s absence from the London scene is best explained by her spending that time alone with Wills in private.
Second, it’s hard to reconcile Wills spending so much time with the Middletons if he is hard-heartedly hoping Kate finds someone else – summer vacation in the Caribbean, overnighters at the Middleton home, invites for the parents to semi-official royal functions.
Moreover, there are indications that is he is very attached to Kate – Harry’s summer comment in Canada to the effect that his brother is “very much in love,” Pippa’s sexy pictures of them in her stolen camera, reports of him staying close to her at the few publicly known social functions they attended – Whisky Mist (stayed by her side all night), Charles 60th b-day party (acted like a couple in love).
Finally, joining SARS can be also be explained as a desire to avoid the tedium of being a working royal OR as simply an excuse to get away from the Royal Family if they don’t sanction their marriage.
However, this is very thin evidence, more supposition than fact and not well-sourced. Until something more concret appears, I have to go with Wills made a decision to join the military for six years and Kate is hanging on.
By Alicia on January 12th, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Speaking of odd coincidences — isn’t it interesting that just after the two young princes establish their own office, an old tape of Prince Harry’s, making some relatively inoffensive – but can be spun offensive – remarks, surfaces.
Hmmmm….
By Alicia on January 12th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
I just finished the Wilson article too and found it facinating and it makes perfect sense!! I’ve been reading for years about Charles carefully orchestrated PR campaigns to rehab himself, and now Camilla in every conceivable way. However carefully one works these things however, there is always the challenge of keeping the thing in balance. As Wilson suggests, Charles can’t be seen as to be manipulating his own Son’s happiness too much. Even when an ego maniac tries to do good there is always the possibility of self serving at the bottom of it.
So then John, if we are to accept these machinations that Wilson describes as true, then there is another plausible reason for a Middleton invite to Birkhall. Charles and his PR advisors have to deal with the pressure of KM and her increasingly untenable position so they work it by playing nice hosts to KM and her parents. So everyone can see how nice ‘we are to the Middletons and we’re only trying to help these poor kids who are SOOOO confused, we’re only here to help, one big happy family blah blah blah’!
Having read my share of British royal history (my fave subject) and watched every video I can get my hands on, on the subject, I see ambition and greed played out all through. Human nature hasn’t changed much in how it goes about getting what it wants. Charles is only doing what many of his fore-runners has done to keep the heir in line, although thankfully reigned in by modern societal norms and not the the 16th century variety.
For all his trouble though, Charles may be outsmarted in the end by more than his son’s opening their own press office. His mother may very inconveniently live to be as old as her mother before her! (hyperbole only here friends)
By Claudia on January 12th, 2009 at 5:19 pm
I like what both London4704 and Alicia say, however they contradict each other.
I have to believe that PW has given KM reason to hang on. I’ve seen the relationships that London4704 refers to as well and they become sick and painful and ugly. Somehow I don’t think we are at sick and painful and ugly with PW and KM, there is too much going on that is open to the public. Neither one could play a role so well in front of all the world for so long, it seems like more cracks would have appeared by now. We do see what look like cracks to we outsiders but we don’t know all. I agree that KM has a lot at stake here and what looks like her hanging on to us may truly be what PW wants. HE MAY REALLY WANT HER!!! Otherwise as many have opined here, he is a pretty dysfunctional character.
We can’t have PW and KM dysfunctional as that would make it hard for we healthy well adjusted people to justify the amount of time we spend obsessing about them! (OK, we can allow some little maladjustment on Charles part to keep things interesting)
By Claudia on January 12th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
Marilyn, you’re right, but there’s so much information we don’t have right now that it’s impossible to say for certain.
I’ve been in touch with a lot of people who follow these things and no-one seems to know what’s really going on.
By John on January 12th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
John, I hope that it didn’t sound like an accusation as if you started the speculation… i just wanted to note that is is plausable. do you not think it would have leaked via more credible source than the australian tabloids?
By london4704 on January 12th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
That’s true, but the unwell remark — you wouldn’t say that about a cold — and the parental get-together, especially in the situation of no engagement for six or seven years, is strange.
By John on January 12th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
I think that PW and KM both may be thinking that they will marry when they are ready to have children–similar to what others in their generation seem to be doing. And, there are advantages in waiting, the main one being having at least a little privacy left in their lives.
Perhaps they dread taking the lead roles in what will surely be England’s biggest drama. If they wait another six years or so, they can hope that interest in them will fade, and they can enter the drama at a different stage of life.
Perhaps Harry’s latest dust up in the media makes PW and KM feel even more eager to wait to marry. They probably dread the scrutiny that follows their every word and would like to prolong the overwhelming scrutiny that will come with marriage. Every nuance of Kate’s behavior would be blown up into a break-up, a pregnancy, a snub of the royal family, a parallel to Princess Diana.
So my two cents worth, given the evidence to date: PW and KM are both in agreement with their plan and want to wait and don’t care if royal watchers are dismayed at the lack of the drama of their engagement, wedding, and married life. And perhaps, as Charles might prefer that the PW and KM drama remain off center stage for a few more years, as the Wilson article points out. Could it be that there is actually no problem among the key players?
By Karen on January 12th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Well, she appeared at Whiskey Mist well before Christmas looking not the least bit pregnant. Perhaps she picked up the bug PW was suffering from when he became ill that night.
By Bear on January 12th, 2009 at 6:38 pm
I thought the comment “Kate was not very well just before Christmas ..” in KN’s article is to explain why she wasn’t seen at Sandringham for Christmas(Boxing day), not to suggest her pregnancy!
By Mikado-watcher on January 12th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
John,
Is there anything to read in the fact that someone as serious a Mr Wilson wrote such an article?
I completely agree that Kate’s absence from the London social circuit has not been fully explained. That is the best indication that may be “going on” behind the scenes. Totally at variance with her previous behavior during a breakup and her own sister Pippa’s social ascendancy.
(It could simply be that Kate has despaired of living a normal life with paparazzi in tow and is simply keeping a low profile. For her own safety, if nothing else. Very hard to read – one can make arguments either way. )
By Alicia on January 12th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
What in the world would it mean if Kate were infertile?
By Karen on January 12th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
I would assume the crown would one day pass to Harry, or his children, correct?
Even if William’s wife produces children, there are no guarantees in life, sadly. Being born to the heir of the throne will not protect one from bad things happening.
By Claire on January 12th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
If KM were infertile, I would assume that she would not qualify for the job of being PW’s consort. One of the job requirements is that she produce an heir.
By Amity on January 12th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
I know I’m not in position to say this, but we need to be careful what to say. I feel this site has became a bit harsh on Kate. I know we have right to express our minds and John has been supported it by providing this site for us. However, when it comes to an individual’s health, including pregnancy, we should be more responsible what we say. Although it is just a rumor but talking about Kate’s pregnancy, abortion or infertile is very insensitive. We know that it’s impossible for Kate to correct every rumors on internet. I hope this site stays fair to Kate (and any one) as it has been.
By Mikado-watcher on January 12th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Me, I wish you would cite your sources. I have never heard anywhere that she was infertile. I think that’s pretty irresponsible to say unless one has irrefutable proof and no one here has.
On another angle, how would this affect PW: http://tinyurl.com/8983yb. I fail to see how a good friend getting married puts pressure on William himself to get married.
By NCKat on January 12th, 2009 at 11:15 pm
I agree totally with Mikado-watcher and NCKat regarding recent comments on this board which cannot possibly be substantiated and which may have painful consequences if those who post unsupported allegations are faced with litigation or censure. I do beg that all of us be very careful not to speculate in an imprudent manner regarding any member of the Royal Family, nor any public figure. Some people believe that aliases which are used to post on internet boards provide anonymity and protection from prosecution, but I assure you, such is not the case. If an entity chooses to lodge a legal challenge or civil complaint against a person who has written an offensive post, the court can issue subpoenas during the legal process of discovery and can demand any and all records from the company who owns the site and can obtain the name of any and all posting persons. Typically the legal remedies for these types of cases can be ruinous for all concerned. Let us all take great care to insure that such calamity befalls none of us.
By Gigi on January 13th, 2009 at 2:56 am
Alicia, Wilson is a bit of a contrarian. It may be he’s just speculating here.
I certainly don’t believe Charles is so overty self-centred that he would interfere in his son’s close relationship. He may simply think that she’s unsuitable in some way — he tends to be rather old-fashioned. But I’ve heard so many explanations over the years, nothing surprises me these days.
By John on January 13th, 2009 at 7:59 am
Wilson may or not be a contrarian, but in this instance, I find his article to be right on point. I do believe that Charles is overtly self-centered and I also believe he is micro-managing both his sons to insure that he and Camilla remain center stage. I hope that the recent creation of a management team for Prince William and Prince Harry, exclusive of Clarence House, will mean a lessening of Charles’ control, but personally, I doubt it. Charles has not lived this long without learning how to control the game and the players, and to sidestep a few landmines. He is quite determined to have his time in the sun, all eyes turned towards him and Camilla, basking in the adulation he believes he richly deserves. Charles will move heaven and earth to make sure that no one jumps his claim, as they say here, even his own son and Heir. Further, even if were possible to change the order of who shall reign, I very much doubt that the Queen would sanction such an action. Since the horrific abdication of Edward VIII, the Royal Family have demonstrated a steely determination to insure an orderly accession to the throne. The challenge for Prince William and Kate will be to avoid stepping on the toes of the very touchy and often disgruntled Charles. Since this avoidance must continue for some years, it will be quite a balancing act, even after Charles is on the Throne of Great Britain and reigns as King. It would help if the media would cooperate and back off, but I doubt that will happen.
On a happier note, I watched an episode of “Queen and Country” last evening and found it delightful viewing! There were lovely scenes of the Queen with her horses, dancing with Prince Philip at the Gillies Ball, and interacting with the beloved Queen Mother. I simply adore the Queen and never tire of reading about her and seeing media film clips in which she is featured. The film clips of Lord Mountbatten’s funeral were very poignant.
By Gigi on January 13th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
As I’ve said before, I can see this scenario playing out, but there must be a limit to Charles’s control over William’s life. I’m sure Charles is not eager to see himself and his wife overshadowed by another young, beautiful Royal couple—Charles and Camilla would virtually disappear (or perhaps even be booed from the stage!) in the glare of William and his bride—but I think it would be terribly sad if William and Kate allowed their relationship to falter simply so C&C can enjoy their shred of pomp in the run-up to Charles’s own accession. I don’t think it wise for the young couple to live their lives in limbo for so shallow and short-sighted a reason.
By Dan on January 13th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
considering recent events scotland and the over night at the middleton’s i believe they are still very much an item and would imagine they have their own “plan” – they just havent thought to let RA in on it
perhaps they are looking to keep a low profile as long as possible – once an engagement is announced the circus will begin…dont recall PW military timeline – would there perhaps be time for a wedding between training and his military service – would KM then be allowed to live with him as a military wife?
thoughts
By coni on January 13th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
I also believe they are still together, and surely have a plan, unless they are two 20-somethings just “going with the flow, living in the moment” and not focusing on their futures. Given that William’s future is entirely dictated, I can imagine him/them wanting to hold off on marriage as long as possible. But I don’t believe Kate can go on indefinitely, up to seven years, without an official position.
My guess is that they will marry in the timeframe that has been rumored. At or just before age 30. That would suggest a time after his 18-month training.
Absent an official engagement, why can’t they just let it be known that they are committed to one another but prefer to wait to marry? Putting down the “waity Katie” comments would be that simple. She doesn’t have to be locked in the castle to improve her position.
By Dan on January 13th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
This week, RAF sources said that PW’s training is expected to be two years, not the 18-months we heard last fall. It’s possible they’ve been asked to give that timeline so everyone won’t be expecting a royal wedding in the summer of 2010.
It also was mentioned (Telegraph?) that according to RAF rules, Kate would be allowed to visit Prince William in his quarters and even stay overnight, but they cannot cohabit until they’re married.
Another question is whether Prince William will make it through the SARTU training. Many don’t make it, so if PW doesn’t, it wouldn’t be a mark against him (in my book, anyway). If that happens, all plans would be up in the air, and it’s possible a royal wedding could come together on shorter notice.
By Evelyn on January 14th, 2009 at 1:37 am
John – I seem to recall that you previously mentioned having a background in economics and political science. Could you please give your thoughts on the extent to which the state of the UK economy may be affecting the timing of any engagement and marriage for either of the princes?
Given that HM is working very hard to send a clear message that she understands how the current economy is affecting the lives of the British people, it would seem like the economy would have to be a significant factor in the timing of an engagement and wedding, IF William and Kate are planning on marrying at some point.
During tough economic times, the pomp and cost of a royal wedding might not sit well with many of HM’s subjects. It’s hard to understand from this side of the pond how strong republican sentiment is able to become in modern times. Similarly, it is difficult to understand or appreciate whether the wedding of Charles and Di had a significant effect not just on the monarchy, but on the mood of the entire country. Do you have some perspective on this please? Thank you!
By Lisa on January 14th, 2009 at 6:36 am
Lisa, the last two major Royal weddings were held in times of recession and austerity. It’s often forgotten that when Charles and Diana married — sumptuously, it has to be said — Britain was in the middle of a very deep manufacturing recession.
The Queen’s wedding was in a period of postwar austerity. It was criticized by some in the leftwing press, but the people turned out in droves.
I don’t believe the economic woes will affect a Royal wedding at all. How many people are putting off their nuptials until things are better economically? Very few, I suspect. It would only show they are not very keen in the first place.
By John on January 14th, 2009 at 8:19 am
It’s unlikely William will spend a couple of years training, only to be turned down. He’s not Prince Edward, he’s a future King. He can’t be seen not to be up to the job.
It’s said he is a talented pilot already, and he clearly has the temperament for the task as well as the intelligence and learning capacity. He won’t fail in this.
My only reservation is his eyesight. He occasionally wears glasses for driving, which shows he is shortsighted. Presumably he wears contact lenses most of the time. These are known to cause inflammation and other problems from time to time, as well as falling out periodically. A helicopter pilot in dangerous conditions needs to have perfect eyesight, I would have thought.
By John on January 14th, 2009 at 8:24 am
John, do you mean William’s time at RAF will be shorter than we think? Is there any possibility that he might not be a rescue pilot because of his eyesight? If so, how come he has been accepted to train at RAF?
By Mikado-watcher on January 14th, 2009 at 3:42 pm
No, I think he will pass and do the full stint, but, as I say “My only reservation is his eyesight”, which must pose some queries against him.
By John on January 14th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
I see. Let’s hope his dream comes true (and ours!).
By Mikado-watcher on January 14th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
Apparently, perfect vision is not a requirement, at least according to the Civil Aviation Authority (the military may have separate standards) but color-blindness is a different story. Isn’t there a rumor afoot that William is color-blind?
If so, it may limit the type of certification he can achieve. I think he would be able to fly only during daylight hours.
By Dan on January 14th, 2009 at 4:10 pm
I heard that too, Dan. Colour blindness, even moderate red-green, is a big problem in murky conditions.
Obviously, they want him there as a trophy, so might squeeze him through. But seven years on half duties will put him in a Harry-type position. I doubt he would stand for that.
By John on January 14th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Is it a good idea for RAF having a trophy pilot? It could be a PR disaster again…
By Mikado-watcher on January 14th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
I imagine SAR has its share of support and administrative positions. William will undergo the full pilot training but he’s not going to be given any truly dangerous missions, no matter how insistent the PR line about “fully operational status.” Look at the hoops the military jumped through to protect Harry.
William may not prefer a desk job, and will bristle at the suspect of special treatment, but let’s face it, administrative duty and special treatment are his lots in life.
By Dan on January 14th, 2009 at 5:52 pm
If any eventual flying restrictions are due to a medical condition (color blindness or near-sightedness), Prince William certainly can’t say that his service was restricted because of his position in the royal family. As Dan says, there would be a number of positions, including some in the helicopter but not as pilot. All would be essential to SARF operations.
By Evelyn on January 14th, 2009 at 6:23 pm
i would imagine if PW eyesight or possible color blindness where an issue he would not have been accepted to the program as from what i understand its costly. he could have easily opted for another role.
By coni on January 14th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
The Daily Mail and The Sun both have photos and articles on Prince William’s first flight at SAR training. He’s wearing standard RAF pilot glasses. They look better than my husband’s US Air Force-issued “birth control glasses”!
By Evelyn on January 16th, 2009 at 1:14 am
The US Navy has “birth control goggles” as well! And you’re right. These are much more attractive
By Julie on January 16th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
My goodness, it is really quiet! Has anyone heard or read anything interesting regarding the Royal Family in the last few days? I am pleased that Prince Harry is being defended by his miliary colleague, but I wish this same miliary colleague had conveyed his feelings (of taking no offense from Prince Harry’s comments) to his own father, who made very public and scathingly critical remarks in the press.
Has our dear John gone underground? John, are there no whispers, rumors, inferences, suggestions? Is there nothing whatever of interest to report? I fear we are all mired in the January doldrums.
To rise above our lethargy, let us all have a nice hot cup of tea and some French creme tea cakes! It that teatime repast fails to restore us, I fear nothing will. 
By Gigi on January 18th, 2009 at 12:45 am
It is quiet, Gigi. Prince William and Prince Harry are both off to their training courses. No doubt, Kate is back working at Party Pieces, and Chelsy back to her studies.
There was quite a flurry of interest in PW&K’s New Year’s holiday. Too bad there was no formal announcement of engagement or intent. I continue to believe that they are still a couple, just waiting the right time.
Yes, tea would be good for us all while we wait.
By Evelyn on January 18th, 2009 at 3:13 am
I think we are all suffering from the letdown of expecting an engagement announcement over Christmas and instead not hearing anything at all. It appears that we are now facing long, long periods of time with no news on the Prince William/Kate Middleton front. I have resorted to reading the Mad Hattery website. Even in the absence of any news regarding the royal romances, we can be sure that the royal ladies will still be fearlessly forging into the future with fine millinery creations!
By Miss Marple on January 18th, 2009 at 5:58 am
The trouble is Gigi, not only is it quiet on the Royal scene, but lots of things are happening elsewhere, such as a possible new Great Depression, a new President on Tuesday, and huge turmoil in British politics. Not to mention that you are up to your necks in snow and we are suffering the coldest winter in years.
So, lots to write about, but little on the Royal Family. The one snippet that’s emerged this weekend is Katie Nicholl’s report that the Princes are unhappy that they’ve only got single beds at the training school. Hold the front page!
By John on January 18th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
I will try to dig something out, though, when I’m back in the office tomorrow.
By John on January 18th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
John, after PW and Kate got engaged, can the Middletons keep their business as usual? Are there any restrictions for them?
By Mikado-watcher on January 18th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Hi John, maybe an interesting piece about how William and Harry are setting up their offices to set the stage for their independence? I suspect the plan for William’s engagement very much involves that. One would assusme that he would need to be viewed as an adult on his own terms to take a wife. Might his RAF appointment and his own office begin to set the stage for that? And…to place him in a position to place a request to the Queen on his own? The Queen is going to have a lot of her plate to manage the complexities of two Kings in Waiting. Isn’t this really about balancing Waity Chuck and Waity William? This might be the exact reason that William selected the RAF for his immediate future. What do you think?
By Cate on January 18th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
How about this report in the Sunday Express (picked up by the New Zealand Herald online) that Kate is considering a move to the US for a position in fashion? It cites “a friend” as the source.
By Dan on January 18th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
If such an event ever were to occur, we would know for sure that Katie has decided to do no more waiting!
I think that would be a great step for her, and PW’s loss.
By Sojourner on January 18th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
Dan, remember the Mario Testino story, which he vehemently denied, and the Tom Ford thing. They proved to be nothing.
I’ll believe it when I see it.
By John on January 18th, 2009 at 11:23 pm
Cate, I think William is as confused as we are. How do you deal with this situation?
He clearly doesn’t want to marry Kate, yet doesn’t want to hurt her.
That’s my take on the situation. I may be proved wrong, but how can anyone argue otherwise and claim they’re right?
By John on January 18th, 2009 at 11:28 pm
John, we are all having fun guessing about this. It is part of what makes your site enjoyable; we get to see everyone’s guess.
Only time will really explain this situation. Might William just not want to deal with his father? In that case, I could see that Kate would wait around. If Charles was supportive of the marriage, then William would have to admit he was unsure. Maybe William is explaining that the ‘timing’ isn’t right, and suggesting that it is related to Charles, rather than admitting it is really about himself. This is getting to be a doubtful situation with Willam. If he can’t make decisions about his private life, how can he lead the people as King?
By Cate on January 19th, 2009 at 12:45 am
Incredible, I am still waiting for that final clue…and as ever, the saga continues. This must be a very difficult time for all of them.
It will be a momentous event when we see William stand up and make a decision, poor man! He will either hurt his father or his lover it seems. Oh, but what a moment that will be!
By Cristina on January 19th, 2009 at 2:08 am
Cate, I tend to think this is quite a simple situation. They have been seeing each other for so long it’s become routine, and it’s hardly worth going through all the pomp and paraphenalia of a Royal wedding for.
He’s probably a romantic like his mother who thinks there must be “that first fine careless rapture” with Rachmaninov playing in his head.
By John on January 19th, 2009 at 10:48 am
I have been thinking (I do that some times), if a marriage between W&K could result in Charles and wife loosing their crown (or at least loosing the public’s interest) William is indeed in a bit of a ‘fix’. He loves his father I am sure (selfishness and all) and would wish him to have his way, especially so if he himself detests the limelight and media circus (that which his father appears to crave). If he is still in love with Kate, he may be in a situation where he must decide whether his love for Kate is greater than his wish to please his dad (might sound lame but I am certain it is not! Especially so when William knows what it means to his father).
If William is confident that Kate will wait, I suspect he would be inclined to defer the wedding. So there is a wobble, well, there have been a few and Kate has bounced back (to him).
And it may be that he tells her that marriage, yes, not just yet, Daddy needs to be king first, and well, he wants Camilla to be queen and you see, you and I will take all the world’s attention and the public will think you are their new Diana. Daddy did not cope well with the old one so you see, it wouldn’t work anyway, besides, we could do with some more private time…
Perhaps that quote “I don’t love her enough” might have meant “enough to cause such distress and pain to my father”?
What doesn’t sit well with me is the cancellation of the wedding plans. Clearly, at some stage, he loved her enough. Enough to risk his father’s anger, disappointment or whatever it is that Charles would feel. And he had enough fear of loosing her for ever!
His choice of being away from her for such long periods of time and leaving her to the censure of the media and public without any effort to stop it also doesn’t sit well with me.
I still suspect that John’s assessment is probably correct.
The fuss over Harry is just too silly to comment on.
By Cristina on January 19th, 2009 at 11:16 am
My problem, Cristina, is that I don’t believe this Charles the Wicked Wizard idea. I simply don’t think he would fracture his son’s life in pursuit of his own self interest. What you do during a broken marriage is very different to what you do to a son.
However, if, as the whisper is, the Queen has already told Charles she will stand aside when he is 65, then there’s some logic in the idea that William is waiting for him to be King. Otherwise, he could be waiting around for 20 years.
So, it all boils down to a fixed date for his accession. I’m not sure if I believe that either, but then I’m just a hard-boiled hack.
By John on January 19th, 2009 at 11:23 am
Hard-boiled Hack, that is funny!
Why is there the belief that Charles would put himself first (before his children)? It is such a hard accusation, there must be some evidence to support it? I confess I have not seen any (but I do not have the great knowledge of the Royal family that so many others do) so I do not have an opinion either way. Nevertheless, William would at least be sensible to his fathers wishes and situation, and I would expect, would do his best not to be in his way. I am also thinking that perhaps Cate is right in saying that William may be using the situation to sort out his own feelings about Kate.
The story of Kate and a fashion house opportunity in the States has made Channel 9 in Australia. I don’t believe it, but I confess that I think it would be good news if it were true.
By Cristina on January 19th, 2009 at 12:09 pm
I think William and Kate should get married and be a military family until after Charles becomes king. That would get them out of London and off the radar for 5 or 7 years. Giving Charles the limelight. William and Kate could have a fairly normal life to start their family and then William would become Prince of Wales and they would have the income to support themselves. Here’s hoping for a 2010 wedding.
By Grandma828 on January 19th, 2009 at 11:28 pm
Grandma, I think Kate would agree to your plan but William certainly doesn’t seem to be keen, does he?
By Cristina on January 19th, 2009 at 11:53 pm
I agree Christina. Kate would be pleased with that, but William is not onboard. I don’t believe Kate will move to the U.S. She enjoys the limelight and mum and dad’s… money too much! I don’t believe she has the desire to establish a career. She might be in denial over the situation. I think she will do lunch and shop W.T.L (women that lunch) but that will be it. I would be DELIGHTED if she proved me wrong! I hope she does, what a breath of fresh air that would be. I think it might do William some good!
By London4704 on January 20th, 2009 at 1:02 am
Given the financial crisis, CM might find the WTL crowd thinning rather quickly…
By Sojourner on January 20th, 2009 at 2:55 am
The funny thing is that in my mind her lack of career is her biggest obstacle with regards to the public having respect for her (and perhaps even being more of a ‘catch’ for William?). As I have said before, I wonder if Kate would be less censored by the media and public and more valued by William had she led a more independent life (like Chelsy).
I am also wondering why she does not at least contribute more to society. Charity work can be done behind closed doors. Kate has always chosen the high profile approach, by design or coincidence I do not know but what I do know is that volunteers are the backbone of charities and the work can be done sans media exposure. In fact, she could be working in an office somewhere. If she needs a wage, there are paid charity jobs she can do. Granted, they are not high wages compared to the rest of the workforce, but it is well worth it if you do not have other responsibilities.
If the media hound her there, the charity will not suffer from it, and let’s face it, Kate is bound to get it anywhere anyway so why not endure it for the good of those in need (including herself)?
By Cristina on January 20th, 2009 at 3:21 am
The Sun is reporting that Prince William is renting a country house near RAF Shawbury where he and Kate can spend time together on the weekends. He will stay on base during the week, and, I assume, whenever Kate is not able to join him.
John, any chance you could find out what house it may be and provide us with a photo? A photo of an officer’s quarters in the Shawbury barracks also would be interesting.
By Evelyn on January 24th, 2009 at 2:24 am
Evelyn, don’t you think your request for photos is a bit invasive of their privacy?
By Amity on January 24th, 2009 at 6:21 am
What right have we to stalk their every movement? Should we also plant a secret camera in his room to satisfy our curiosity? I’m as curious as the next person, but it seems that in this day of rampant reality TV shows, we all forget that PW & KM are real human beings and not merely (unwilling?) characters in our favorite soap opera. It’s no wonder that the paps & the papers pursue their subjects so relentlessly (and even to their deaths) so as to line their pockets by our insatiable desire for “news” and entertainment.
By Amity on January 24th, 2009 at 6:34 am
Evelyn, I think pictures of the house would be restricted for security reasons. As for the barracks, there may be some official pictures around, more likely phone shots will start appearing in the Star or Mirror.
We’ll see.
By John on January 24th, 2009 at 11:07 am
The material point, however, is that Prince William wishes to be with Kate Middleton in a private location during his time in the military and has gone to great pains (and possibly no little expense) to arrange a house for them. This certainly supports the theory that they are still a couple, still together, and that they are not merely ‘friends.’ Further, it does not appear to me that Prince William is confused or doubtful about his future with Kate. Something else, indeed someone else, is at work here, and I believe that we shall have to wait until the smoke clears and reveals the substance of the agenda and by whom it is driven. My own view is that Charles is at the ironclad controls of this Machiavellian machine, but as our own fearless leader, John, correctly says, we shall see what we see when we see it.
By Gigi on January 24th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
does anyone else on here feel like this shacking up is a major disrespect! and that Kate seems even more “waity” by not expecting to be treated like a lady. She gets no protection or commitment and yet now sans regular work it would seem ( no surprise there!) she will make frequent umm …. calls to William! It just doesn’t seem very dignified and if one is going for modern, it doesn’t paint Kate (as a woman) in a very good light.
By london4704 on January 24th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Sad news – Prince Harry and Chelsy Davy have split up:
http://tinyurl.com/dma9q8
According to the DM, she could no longer stand his lifestyle.
By NCKat on January 24th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
Just a thought but what if the Birkhall trip was something for Kate & William to discuss where the future lies in this relationship. We have had news of Harry & Chelsy have gone their seperate ways after having a discussion while on Holiday. Could it be that both men have gone their seperate ways with both Chelsy & Kate? The difference is Chelsy can walk away with her head held up high, because she is about to leave UNI, and start a career in life. Kate on the other hand we know quite possibly cant walk away with her head held high, given the problems we already know about in terms of her not being very career driven.
I don’t know those recent sightings of William & Kate seemed put on for me. Maybe they were trying to hide the fact that like his brother & his Girlfriend they were no longer together?
By Belinda on January 24th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
So, Kate has nothing better to do than hang out with William as a decoy for Harry & Chelsey? Why does no one seem to take her job with her family business seriously? I’m not convinced that Kate would spend time like that to help out William if they are not together as more than friends. I think it’s a pretty wild theory.
By Julie on January 24th, 2009 at 10:53 pm
Well if Harry being away for long periods of time due to Military commitments can cause problems. Then there is a good chance the other relationship might have those problems also, as William will be away for long periods of time.
By Belinda on January 25th, 2009 at 11:54 am
Well, I read my most recent issue of “Majesty” and the article on William which mentioned the holiday stay at Birkhall (did I get that right?) revealed that Katie was playing hostess there organizing the day, setting the menu and what have you. It hardly seems the role of a “merely good buddy”. This combined with the private weekend residence really strains the “they’re just friends” story.
I don’t think we should assume that what is problems in one relationship is the same problems in the other. For Katie the problem doesn’t seem to be the length of William’s military training by itself but the length of their relationship without any firmer public declaration besides “girlfriend”. For Harry and Chesley I figured a break-up was inevitable because she simply did not strike me as a military wife who would eventually look forward to a lifetime dedicated to public service.
By Imani on January 26th, 2009 at 8:38 pm