RECKONING

She Rules: Princess Kate Lives Up To Queen's Term Of Endearment

By Elizabeth C.

THE WEDDING'S BARELY TWO MONTHS GONE BUT BRITAIN'S ROYAL FAMILY COULD TRAVEL TO THE MOON AND BACK WITH THE FUEL THEY'VE GOTTEN FROM PRINCESS KATE.

Perfectly coiffed, not a hair out of place, not a pinch of cellulite captured on camera -- so far the new princess is wearing well on the public.

"Trusty" Kate is the perfect tool to help mend the royals' image after its devastating treatment toward Diana, who would turn be turning 51 on July 1 if she were still alive.

As William's celebrates his 29th birthday today, the newlyweds are gearing up for their upcoming 11-day trip to North America, which will include three jam-packed days in sunny California.

"All eyes will be on her," says Patrick Jephson, a former private secretary to Princess Diana. "The many days of a tour are a test of stamina, patience, and good humor."

No doubt, Kate will look picture-perfect as she watches her husband play polo at the Santa Barbara Polo Club (to benefit the American Friends of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry) and attends the black-tie dinner for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

And here's another feather in her fascinator: She'll leave the unbecoming habit of accepting freebies to her more common sister.

The Princess "has a policy not to accept any free offers of clothing," a courtier tells the press. "We would never discuss the prices paid for individual items – these will remain private between the Duchess and the designers. She will not receive any special clothing budget for the Canada and California tour."

" She is serene like a swan,'' Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrew's former wife, told Access Hollywood. "And it’s such lovely, new fresh start, young love, and it’s fabulous.”

It would be well for the royal hierarchy to reward its new star grandly: Diana showed what can happen when you take a beloved princess for granted.