CALGARY - The Duchess of Cambridge is getting a tip of the hat from some Calgarians for fulfilling the wish of a sick little girl.

Prince William and Kate arrived in the city yesterday in the midst of strong winds and did not don the white cowboy hats presented to them by Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

Instead, the Duchess of Cambridge quickly turned her attention to Diamond Marshall, a six-year-old girl decked out in a pretty pink dress with a matching band encircling her bald head.

Diamond, who has been sick with cancer, had always wanted to meet a real princess, so the Children's Wish Foundation went to work.

When the royal couple emerged from their helicopter, Diamond ran to the smiling Duchess, thrust a handmade gift and flowers at her and then bolted back to the safety of her parents.

Kate entreated the shy little girl to come back and after they exchanged a few words they gave each other a hug.