Queen Elizabeth, 89 years old and unflappable after 63 years of running the British monarchy, gave the royal equivalent of a wink at handsome young Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau on Friday.
In a three-line toast before a meeting of the Commonwealth -- countries that were part of the British Empire before they became independent, and retain the Queen as nominal head of state -- the Queen singled out Trudeau, 43, for some playful banter.
The dashing Trudeau had toasted the Queen -- in a long speech full of syrupy praise -- and pointed out that his father Pierre was the fourth Canadian prime minister during her reign, and Trudeau himself the 12th.
The Queen nimbly disarmed Trudeau's flattery with a response that was brief, dry and somehow affectionate.
"Thank you, @JustinTrudeau, for making me feel so old!" Read HM's #CHOGM2015 Dinner toast https://t.co/jujHCkyBBY pic.twitter.com/UTqWXU6o9G— BritishMonarchy (@BritishMonarchy) November 27, 2015
Trudeau, wise if still young, knew that it wouldn't do to let that stand.
With a chivalrous sweep of his cape and a deep bow (we like to think), Trudeau replied with courtier-like reflexes that the Queen was "forever young."
On the contrary, you are forever young. I was honoured to toast your lifetime of service tonight. https://t.co/xcXGiSj6OT— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 27, 2015
Nice save, Mr. Trudeau.
So far Prince Philip seems unconcerned, but he may want to keep an eye on the situation.