He’s been accused of “losing himself among the Highland heather and hills”, and “burying his head in Duchy lemon posset” – a British dessert favourite – in the wake of the furore surrounding the shock return of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to the UK.
But a palace insider reveals, rather than being oblivious, the King has actually been secretly encouraging his youngest son to come home.
“Charles’ cancer diagnosis set off a ticking clock,” our palace insider spills.
“Suddenly things that seemed so important before weren’t any more and he’s not prepared to leave the monarchy – and his family – in such a divided state. “He’s always wanted Harry home and has actively encouraged his return – he never wanted them to leave the UK in the first place.”
News that his father was secretly engineering Harry’s return has not gone down well with the Prince of Wales.
Sibling showdown
Yet Charles, 77, is pleading with William, 44, to find a way to make peace now with his younger brother.
“Charles has assured William he’s not taking sides – he just wants his family together again. But it’s not easy for Wills. Charles has told him that he’s his true heir, but he believes Harry can be turned into an asset. “Don’t underestimate how religious Charles is – his faith would never let him abandon Harry. There’s a part of Charles that genuinely believes bringing his sons back together could be what finally unites the country.”
William draws the line
But even with his father desperate for a reconciliation, royal biographer Duncan Larcombe says the heir to the throne is not backing down. He’s particularly incensed about the damning comments Harry, 41, and Meghan, 45, have made at the expense of his beloved wife, the Princess of Wales, 44.
“I even understand that he has warned his wayward brother to ‘stay away from his family’ after everything that has happened,” explains Duncan.
Harry and Meghan’s about-turn is reportedly in part due to their desire to have their two children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, educated in Britain. They’re enrolled to start at a co-ed private school in the Cotswolds, a celebrity-favourite country enclave just out of London.
Harry’s return causes a stir
The high-profile pair are said to have already upset locals after warning letters were sent to parents, reminding them
“not to photograph or film other children without permission, or share photographs, information or details about pupils or their families on social media”, says
royal commentator Kinsey Schofield.
Our insider adds, “Harry’s return has certainly set the cat among the pigeons, but there’s no doubt Charles’ deteriorating health has made this happen sooner than expected. “The original plan was when Archie was to begin high school, but even Meghan knows Archie and Lili’s future hangs on their relationship with the royals. And Charles is the only one who can make a reconciliation happen. All bets are off once William ascends the throne.”
