It was a sad birthday for Prince Harry, who closed today with Meghan at Frogmore Cottage, Windsor, while waiting for his grandmother Elizabeth's funeral. From whom the good wishes arrived punctually on social media.
Prince Harry decided to stand aside and mark his 38th birthday with only the company of his wife. While all the other Royals are scattered around the four corners of Great Britain, busy greeting their subjects and reading the messages left in tribute to the Queen, King Charles' second son preferred to isolate himself for a day.
Hopes for Harry and William
The Sussexes' participation in recent days in various events that brought the Royal Family together had raised hopes for a reconciliation between Harry and William. But now that the preparations for Elizabeth's funeral on Monday 19 September have been finalised, it seems clear that at Buckingham Palace they are rather reluctant to forgive the Megxit and all its consequences.
Prince Harry's grief
According to the British media, to console him this morning on the royal family's private social networks came Queen Elizabeth's best wishes, obviously arranged months before his passing. But the sovereign's message from beyond will have left Harry rather bitter.
Prince Harry will not be able to wear his beloved military uniform
He, who served his country, and his queen, in Afghanistan but was forced to give up his military posts after leaving court life, will not be allowed to show off his uniform at Elizabeth's funeral. He will only be allowed to pin his medals to his chest, as he did in the procession that carried Elizabeth's coffin to Westminster.
Archie and Lilibet become prince and princess
Another 'spite' that Harry will have to endure concerns the lack of the title of Royal Highness to Archie, three years old, and Lilibet, one year old. The two children received the title of princes from Charles, as was expected by protocol as soon as their grandfather ascended the throne. But they will not be working Royals, will have no duties at court and consequently do not deserve the extra title.
Harry postpones autobiography
As a mark of respect for his Queen Grandmother, Harry has reportedly postponed the publication of his long-awaited autobiography. The book was supposed to come out in November but now it seems the prince has reconsidered. Most sceptics think that the move was decided to give him time to add potentially explosive content about what is going on in Windsor these days. Chapters that, if added to the tome, will be eagerly read by his father Charles and Camilla, queen consort.