Duchess gives birth to new prince
LONDON — Third time’s a charm. The Duchess of Cambridge gave birth Monday morning to a new prince who is fifth in line to the British throne — and she was home by suppertime.
The duchess and husband Prince William drove to St. Mary’s Hospital in London early in the morning, and Kate’s 8 pound, 7 ounce boy was born at 11:01 a.m.
Around 6 p.m., Kate emerged alongside her husband, holding the tiny royal highness wrapped in a white lace shawl.
William declared the couple “very delighted” with the new addition to the family.
News of the royal birth came with a mix of tradition and modernity typical of Britain’s media-savvy royal family. It was announced on Twitter and also proclaimed in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace with a framed notice perched on a golden easel.
Tony Appleton, a town crier from southeast England, showed up in full regalia to declare the newborn prince’s birth outside the hospital. The words “It’s a boy” flashed in lights around the top of London’s BT Tower, which can be seen for miles around.
The baby is a younger brother to 4-year-old Prince George and Princess Charlotte, who turns 3 next week.
The infant’s name, which has been subject to a flurry of bets, is likely to be announced in the next few days.
Arthur and James are among bookmakers’ favorites for the new prince, whose full title will be His Royal Highness, Prince (Name) of Cambridge.