From the land of Hans Christian Andersen – the author of the world’s best children’s fables – Aussie Mary Donaldson is truly living up to the classic fairy tale line of “living happily ever after” (Princess Mary’s Aussie beach holiday is off and running, 22/12). In tune with common folk while ditching the excessive aloofness of the cousins across the English Channel, Mary’s appearance in Sydney is a cheerful reprieve from the bad news royal calamities spawned by the Sussexes. Perhaps Meghan might take a few lessons from Mary on how to merge constructively in prestigious families without burning down everything in sight. Welcome back Mary and Frederick. You are still much loved. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta. 23Dec2022.