Happy birthday to a very bonny Prince

(Photo:www.kissyrobe.fr/robe-de-soiree-longue) Prince George will be one year old this week. What a year he has had. Born at 4.24pm on July 22 2013, the baby who would be king weighed 8lb 6oz. He wore a replica of the 172-year-old royal christening robe at his christening, where he was praised for being so well-behaved. Prince George showed a little more truculence during the famous playdate on the royal tour of New Zealand – towering over the other children and stealing one or two of their toys. His mother hovered about protectively, occasionally wiping a dab of drool from his chin. And then there were his first public steps at the Cirencester Park Polo Club, Gloucestershire. A little awkward, perhaps, but these things take time.
The young prince at his christening
Prince George’s outings are a reminder of what makes the monarchy so enduringly popular – its humanity. The lives of the Royal family offer benchmarks to our own. They grow up along with us, experience joy, are touched by sorrow, and confirm that life is all the more pleasant when shared as part of the national community. For proof of what royalty means to Britons of all classes, races and regions, consider this fact: by the beginning of 2014 George was the second most popular name for baby boys – behind William.

The institution is a powerful diplomatic force, too. The royal tour earlier this year demonstrated the global affection for the monarchy, something that binds together people across the Commonwealth. Could we wish for a finer set of ambassadors than the Duke and the Duchess of Cambridge – a happy young couple, clearly in love and committed to the service of their country? No wonder that the republican movement in Australia has shrunk: the capacity of the monarchy to renew itself with each generation is remarkable. We wish Prince George a very happy birthday.Lire aussi:www.kissyrobe.fr/robe-de-ceremonie