Prince Albert in a Can

MONACO (AP) – A solemn Prince Albert
II formally ascended to Monaco’s throne Saturday in ceremonies that mixed
royal pomp with an emotional remembrance for his late father, Rainier
III.

The festivities started with a Mass in the cliff-top cathedral where Rainier
married Hollywood beauty Grace Kelly in 1956 and where he was buried beside
her in April when he died at age 81, ending a 56-year reign.

Wearing a royal ceremonial military uniform, Albert blinked back tears
after kneeling to receive a blessing at the end of the Mass, which was
led by the archbishop of Monaco, Monsignor Bernard Barsi. His sisters,
Caroline and Stephanie, sat beside him and cried.

"By rising to the Grimaldi throne, Prince Albert finds his place in the
continuity of this dynasty and with the help of God, carries forward the
destiny of the principality dating more than seven centuries,” Barsi said
between strains of organ music and Handel’s "Messiah.”

Sounds a bit over the top for our tastes. Besides,
everyone knows what to do with Prince Albert in a can – let him out…

from the Guardian of London