Prince Charles and Camilla Parker-Bowles took a deep breath and plunged into a pool of flashlights. In that one second, their long-discussed relationship was made official.

Now the Prince will be anxiously watching the opinion polls. Going public was a carefully considered risk.

After his divorce, British sympathy was overwhelmingly with Diana. Her death left the nation in shocked grief, and threatened to undermine the monarchy.

Since the tragedy, Prince Charles has conducted himself admirably, and the public has warmed to him. The initial reaction to the appearance with Camilla has been favourable, as the comments in tonight's report demonstrate. People have forgiven the Prince for past mistakes.

He can face the future with renewed happiness and confidence. But he must tread carefully: any talk of wedding bells at this stage may puncture his new-found popularity.

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