The Queen's Concern: Prince Andrew's Room-Temperature Water Habit
Prince Andrew's unique habit of only drinking room-temperature water has been a source of concern for Queen Elizabeth II for many years. According to a family friend, the former Duke of York has never consumed alcohol and has always stuck to water at room temperature. This habit, which Andrew reportedly explained as a dislike for alcohol since his teenage years, worried the Queen as she saw him as vulnerable.
The concern over Andrew's water-drinking habit dates back to his childhood, with the Queen always keeping an eye on him due to his unusual routine. Despite being described as a straightforward and handsome naval officer, Andrew was also seen as someone who never fully grew up, which added a layer of complexity to the Queen's worries about him.
Throughout his life, the Queen remained concerned about Andrew, viewing him as vulnerable and easily influenced by negative influences. Despite her worries, she was not blind to his actions and was known to acknowledge his behavior, even if it was not always positive. This ongoing concern about Andrew's well-being persisted into the Queen's final years, highlighting the lasting impact of his habits on her perception of him.
In the grander scheme of things, Andrew's water-drinking habit was not just a trivial detail but a part of a larger pattern of behavior that troubled the Queen. As depicted in Robert Hardman's book, the habit served as a constant reminder of Andrew's personality and upbringing, shaping the Queen's understanding of her son's actions.