Patricia Routledge's private letters reveal details of relationship with Kate and William

Dame Patricia Routledge’s private letters, set to be auctioned later this month, offer a rare glimpse into her close relationships with members of the royal family and prominent political figures. Among the documents being sold are letters from the late Commons Speaker Betty Boothroyd and former Prime Minister Theresa May, alongside correspondences with the late Queen Elizabeth II’s son, Prince Charles, and his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. These letters, some written on official stationery from Clarence House and the House of Commons, provide insight into the personal connections Dame Patricia maintained throughout her life. The letters reveal a warm and affectionate bond between Dame Patricia and Prince Charles, who awarded her a damehood at Buckingham Palace in 2017 for her contributions to theatre and charity. In a letter dated June 12, 2004, Charles expressed his delight upon learning of her knighthood, writing, “I was delighted to hear the splendid news of your Honour, and wanted to send you my warmest possible congratulations.” Signed as “Charles, The Prince of Wales,” the message reflects the mutual respect and admiration between the two. Equally revealing are the exchanges between Dame Patricia and Baroness Betty Boothroyd, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 93. Their correspondence, spanning from 1998 to 2014, highlights their shared interest in politics and the challenges of public life. In one letter, Baroness Boothroyd humorously remarked on her familiarity with the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, noting that she was not regarded as a security threat when visiting St James’s Palace. She quipped, “I guess security services don’t bother to frisk you, you are so well known at the grand addresses of St James.’ The Cornwalls must get withdrawal symptoms if they don’t see you for a week or two!” Another letter from 2014, written ahead of Dame Patricia’s planned trip to Australia, included lighthearted comments about the royal family’s expectations. Baroness Boothroyd asked, “What about the Windsors and Cambridges, are they in your diary before Oz?” This exchange underscores the informal yet respectful nature of their friendship. The letters also touch on more personal matters, such as Baroness Boothroyd’s health and living conditions. In one instance, she joked about her worsening arthritis and the inconvenience of her landlord, the Duke of Westminster. She wrote, “The arthritis seems to have moved down the legs to the hands, hence this terrible scribble. Better wind up. Best love Betty.” Her humorous tone masks underlying concerns, reflecting the challenges of aging and maintaining independence. In addition to these lighter moments, the correspondence includes heartfelt expressions of gratitude. A letter dated 1998 praised Dame Patricia for hosting a memorable dinner party, stating, “It was a great show, super company and food, superbly executed leaving nothing to chance. You were so thoughtful and generous, very many thanks for a happy and glorious evening.” Baroness Boothroyd also offered practical advice, including assistance with finding a suitable home in London. In a letter from February 9, 1998, she suggested considering street flats in Pimlico, owned by the Duke of Westminster, noting their “reasonable rents” and “quality old-fashioned punters.” She warned against becoming overly social in retirement, suggesting that such a lifestyle might not suit everyone. These letters, rich in detail and emotion, paint a vivid picture of Dame Patricia’s life and relationships, offering a unique window into the personal world of a celebrated figure in British culture. As the auction approaches, these documents will serve as both historical artifacts and intimate reflections of a remarkable individual.