Plus ca change...

" I am extremely anti-Labour. They are so far apart from fairies and owls and bluebells and Americans, and all the things that I like.
If they agree with me I know they are pretending - in fact I believe everything is pretence to them."
This was written in 1924, and could equally be true today, and, I would venture, equally true of the majority of this country's views at the moment.
Of course, the person writing these words was rather special.
It was Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, quoted in Shawcross's new book.

A Condom! A Condom! My Kingdom for a Condom!*

In case you missed it, today was the mooted day for Prince Albert of Monaco to announce his engagement to Charlene Wittstock.
It was put off because of the general world economic collapse - it was thought inappropriate that such an announcement should be made at that time. So December 31st was suggested... or 5th. January.
Albert and his family was cursed many years ago by a witch who said that they would never have happy marriages, which has been largely true. He has children ( how? do Royals never use condoms?) but none will inherit.
The assumption would be that to produce a legitimate heir is pretty important to him, but I suspect he is putting off the evil day which may end his happiness.
It would be rather fun though, wouldn't it? I doubt William and Kate will be making any announcements soon.
* This is the second Shakespearean quote of the day - somewhat bastardised