Lo, and it came to pass at last on Saturday morning, unto Kate, who was late, a child was born - a baby girl, who will be fourth in line to the British throne.
There was much rejoicing in the land, especially among the many who had placed their bets on a girl, while others await a further windfall, if they guess right on what name will be chosen.
Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, "was safely delivered of a daughter" at 8:34 a.m. London time, Kensington Palace announced. The birth came less than three hours after she was admitted to the hospital where in July 2013 she gave birth to Prince George, so according to some British press, she and her husband will get a 10 percent "loyalty discount" for her expensive hospital suite.
The baby weighs 8 pounds 3 ounces, the palace said, adding that father William, the Duke of Cambridge, was present for the birth of the child, who will be known as the Princess of Cambridge.
The pending birth and uncertainty about the gender have been a boon for Britain's bookmakers, who say they received thousands of bets on the newborn's gender and possible name. Betting was partly suspended after Saturday's announcement, though wagers were still being placed on a name.
Alice and Charlotte are the favourites, followed by Elizabeth, Victoria and Diana - all names with connections to royal tradition.
Royal watchers, fans and television camera operators have been lining up for days outside the Lindo wing at St Mary's Hospital.
©2015 The New York Times News Service
