Q. I would like to return the hospitality of a senior member of the royal family but my wife insists that an invitation is not expected and would only embarrass as we could not match the standards. Meanwhile I have heard that a friend of a friend of a friend has had this senior royal to stay, more than once, in very modest converted farm buildings in the West Country. What do you recommend?
— Name and address withheld
A. You need not issue a direct invitation — just a strongly hinting overture that he would be more than welcome. If and when top royals want to come and stay or visit you in your own home, and can square it with security costs, they will give an indication themselves. They will do this either verbally, through a mutual friend who is a better friend than you, or through the appropriate official, who can negotiate a diary date.
Q.
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