Royal democrat

No matter how hard I try, I can't help being a royalist (Letters, 21 April). Any affection for the royal family I retain sits uneasily with how I regard an institution which is essentially anti-democratic. But despite this, as a traditionalist, I suffer from a nostalgia for and a certain cultural kowtowance towards the royals, whose imminent wedding will prove a long-awaited PR shot in the arm. I can't say I'm looking forward to hordes of rapturous Diana-ites, searching hysterically for meaning in a matrimonial second coming. However, I do admire the dignity and level-headedness of Diana's son – not to mention his choice of bride – and think the wedding will at least consolidate the Windsors' standing for a generation or two. Also (and importantly), it may supply the pre-emptive popularity boost required to get over the inevitable hurdle just around the corner in the form of George VII and Queen Camilla. In the meantime, there's a big wedding to enjoy.

Posted in: kate middleton