When Queen Victoria became Britain's longest ruling monarch in September 1896, ousting George III, church bells rang throughout the country, and beacons blazed on hilltops.

The Middletons and the Windsors might seem at first glance to be worlds apart. Kate certainly shows no sign of adopting the horsey, doggy lifestyle beloved of her grandmother-in-law. But the Queen admires how well Kate has embraced royal life, combining it cheerfully with duty and motherhood.

The Queen rarely loses her temper, but when she does, she brooks no argument.

Ingrid Seward Quotes