The distinguished royal commentator Brian Hoey reveals the Queen's eccentricities, as told by those who know her best. . . and uncovers the truth about the pitiful Palace wages and the illegal practice the Royals quietly tolerate.'Full of facts by a "royal chronicler"of the old school ... anyone looking for a clear picture of how the royal household machinery actually works, and what it costs, will not be disappointed.'The private world at the heart of royalty is authoritatively exposed, with the help of many past and present members of the royal staff and household, in this wide-ranging account of palace life. For Buckingham Palace is effectively an independent kingdom, with its own elaborate rituals and customs.Hundreds of anecdotes illuminate the conditions in which the staff live and work; we learn how much members of the household earn, how they are appointed, and which members of the royal family are the best to work for. We also learn the answers to such intriguing questions as:Why does the Queen hate men with facial hair or men who wear waistcoats.'' Why does Prince Charles still have to send a written note to her Page of the Backstairs requesting a meeting with his mother.'' Why are the Queen's bed sheets six inches longer than Prince Philip's?Why do her maids have to vacuum walking backwards? Why doesn t the Queen allow square ice-cubes to be put in her drinks?
