Soap operas would have a hard time selling such a cast: an adulterous prince, a lovelorn princess, an unemployed ex-Army officer, an ambitious journalist and a sensation-seeking publisher. But they all exist in Britain, and last week they coalesced in an explosive mixture that shook the foundations of the monarchy. Princess in Love, dubbed "the most shocking royal book ever written," details an alleged 1986-91 affair between Princess Diana and ex-tank commander James Hewitt. More than 100,000 copies sold in five days, ensuring a fortune for author Anna Pasternak. Hewitt, who helped produce the book, also may make money but is ruined socially. The Daily Express branded him a "traitor," and his old regiment banned him from its barracks.
Last June, Prince Charles, separated from Diana since December 1992, admitted he had had an affair. Now pressure is mounting for the couple to divorce once they become eligible to do so in two months' time. Friends of Diana say she is reluctant to divorce for fear of losing control of her two sons. Constitutionally, Charles, as heir to the throne, may divorce. But a settlement might cost the royal family $30 million.
British sympathies remain with Diana, who left public life 10 months ago. A poll after the latest fiasco found 53 percent blame Charles for the failed marriage; 10 percent, Diana, and 27 percent, neither. More humiliations lie ahead. Next month, two new books about the couple's private lives will be published. And Hollywood is said to be planning a film about Diana.
