Mrs. Astor's Staff Was Listening

The New York Post has published excerpts from Meryl Gordon's Mrs. Astor Regrets. The new book seems unlikely to gladden the heart of Mrs. Astor's son and daughter-in-law:

Secret journals kept by Brooke Russell Astor's staff reveal tragic scenes, including one in which the society doyenne was literally dragged into a meeting against her will to sign over $60 million to her only son after she slammed her cane against the floor shouting, "Do you hear me?"

When they weren't caring for her in person, Astor's maids, nurses and butlers were listening to her private meetings via a baby monitor. They filled 30 journals over four years…

Meanwhile, the estate struggles to dispose of Brooke Astor's homes in a down market. Her palatial New York apartment is now offered at $34 million, down from $46 million.

Perhaps a better buy is her beloved Holly Hill in Briarcliff Manor. Sotheby's has listed the stone home, on 64 acres, at a mere $12.9 million. Judging from the photo at right, Holly Hill was a bright and cheery place. Hope the late owner was able to comprehend and appreciate her last days there.

HOLLY HILL