Some people have pointed out this story as one of love conquers all, to celebrate Valentine's Day.

They talked about their families and found out that they had both been abandoned by their fathers as toddlers, and both were anxious to build stronger families. Blackwell's first marriage had collapsed and he had two daughters by two different women, but he insisted he was ready to start again.

Three months after their palace date, Blackwell - fed up with dating across the razor-wire - was already thinking about getting married. "It just felt like the right thing to do," he says now. "It was something that was more than us. I didn't want to give up something like that."

"He doesn't make plans," McKee [his mother--ed] adds by way of explanation.

Anyone want to make book on the long-term (or even short-term) prospects for this marriage?

Chances?

Damned near zero. Britney (spelling?) and what's his face had a much better chance.

Two people -- both somewhat screwed up -- from vastly different cultures marry after a few "dates." Good marriages tend to be formed by people with a good deal in common, but with enough differences to keep things open and interesting.

6 months after she sets foot in country.

I wouldn't give odds on a average marriage. OTOH, this doesn't appear as screwed up as some I've seen work.

Maybe I'll enter the marriage betting game after all. Found an edge. :-)