Hi Dave, The whole thing seems to be archaic, and out of touch with the times. Just more overhead to tax the people for. People should be honored for their achievements. Hanging a medal around their neck, and a firm handshake should do nicely. Best to you, Bob <In a message dated 03/10/00 5:25:02 PM Central Daylight Time, esi@geotec.net <writes: <A title is usually bestowed for servive to the "crown", although there are <some instances where they were bought. Recently they have been given for <commercial enterprise, like the Beatles, or long term service like a Civil <Servant, and other such miterio8use service for the crown,. (Note the crown <IS the government.) <Some titles can be passed on to the children, these usually include land <owners such an Earl a Peer Of The Realm, (Member House of Lords), etc. Some <die with the bearer such as an MBE, Member of the British Empire, like the <Beatles got. Others like the Baron of ...... Or Sir Big Head of London are <carried over from father to son, mother to son and daughter. It all depends <on the title and who gets it. Recently the Royals were removed from the list <after one generation. So Princess Margret's children, (Queen Liz's sister) <will not be considered Royals. but will retain their other titles such as <Lady Snowdon etc. <Cheers Dave.