Taki Taki

I think I just went to the greatest ball in history

Plus: What Paul Johnson (maybe) said to Simon Jenkins

Galen and Hilary Weston Photo: Getty 
issue 05 July 2014

To Fort Belvedere for a ball that most likely will discourage any more balls because of its brilliance and perfection. Galen and Hilary Weston, who lease the historic house that was once the playground of Edward VIII and the venue where he signed the Instrument of Abdication in front of his three brothers, are amazing hosts. In this age of gushing exhibitionism, their restraint and good taste leave one speechless upon arrival. On a brilliant June evening, with the weather holding, some 400 guests arrived at Windsor Great Park and walked down the immaculate rolling lawns of the Fort.

On the right, on a perfect grass court where once upon a time I used to play regularly with Galen, a mixed doubles game was in process. The ladies wore long 1900s dresses and large hats. The men were in impeccable long whites. The rackets were made of wood. But there was something wrong.

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