Queen ‘saw funny side’ of Lorraine nickname … but King Charles did not
The Queen’s family nicknamed her “Lorraine”, a play on the French “la reine”, a new book has revealed.
Camilla, who became the Duchess of Cornwall after marrying into the Royal family, “always saw the funny side” of the nickname, it is claimed.
The King, however, “did not”, according to a friend of the couple.
The nickname has been revealed in a new biography of Charles III by Robert Hardman, who describes the rise of Queen Camilla and the support she has received from her own family.
“Back in the days when it seemed there was no question of the Duchess becoming Queen, her family gave her the nickname ‘Lorraine’ (as in the French la reine),” he writes.
“‘She always saw the funny side of that – even if Prince Charles did not’, says a friend.”
The biographer also notes Camilla took some time to get used to her new role after her husband became King.
“Family and friends were amused that it took quite some time before the new Queen would even respond to her new status,” the book states.
“Passing references or memos or questions to ‘Her Majesty’ would meet with blank looks until it suddenly dawned that they were referring to her.”
Annabel Elliot, her sister, who was by her side at the Westminster Abbey Coronation, admitted: “I find it very hard to curtsey to her ... And call her ‘Your Majesty’? That I can’t do.”
The book pays tribute to the character of the Queen, who is portrayed as a positive influence on the King by virtue of her sense of humour and “intrinsically happy character”.
In comments originally made in a BBC documentary about the Coronation, broadcast on Boxing Day, the Princess Royal said: “For Queen Camilla, it’s been much more difficult in every way, partly not having had the same level of preparation.
“But her understanding of her role and how much difference it makes to the King has been absolutely outstanding.
“And [there is] no doubt that made the difference for him throughout the process. I’m sure lots of people do say to her what a difference she’s made, but that is really true.
“I mean, I’ve known her a long time off and on and I think she’s been incredibly generous and understanding.”
The book, Charles III by Robert Hardman, is out on January 18th.
