for Mr Goulburn.]
_Lord John Russell to Queen Victoria._
_6th July 1839._
Lord John Russell presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and has
the honour to report that Mr. Rice yesterday brought forward his
financial statement with great ability.
He moved a resolution in favour of a penny postage, which Sir Robert
Peel declared it to be his intention to oppose on the report. This
will be on Friday next. This seems a mistake on the part of the
Opposition.[46]
[Footnote 46: The penny postage scheme came into operation on
10th January 1840.]
[Pageheading: THE QUEEN AND PRINCE ALBERT]
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _12th July 1839._ (_20 minutes to 12._)
The Queen is really quite shocked to see that her box was taken to
Lord Melbourne to Park Lane, and she fears (by the manner in which
Lord Melbourne's note is written) that he was at dinner at Lady
Elizabeth H. Vere's when he got it. The Queen had imagined that the
House of Lords was still sitting, and therefore desired them to take
the box there, but never had intended it should follow him to dinner;
she begs Lord Melbourne to excuse this mistake which must have
appeared so strange.
Did the dinner go off well at Lady Elizabeth H. Vere's, and were there
many people there? Did Lord Melbourne go to Lady R. Grosvenor's party
or did he go home?
The Queen hopes Lord Melbourne is quite well and not tired.
Monday at two o'clock for the Judge Advocate.
The Queen hears Lady Sandwich is very much delighted at her
appointment.
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _15th July 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--I have no letter from you, but hope to get one
soon....
I shall send this letter by a courier, as I am anxious to put several
questions to you, and to mention some feelings of mine upon the
subject of my cousins' visit, which I am desirous should not
transpire. First of all, I wish to know if _Albert_ is aware of the
wish of his _Father_ and _you_ relative to _me?_ Secondly, if he knows
that there is _no engagement_ between us? I am anxious that you should
acquaint Uncle Ernest, that if I should like Albert, that I can make
_no final promise this year_, for, at the _very earliest_, any such
event could not take place till _two or three years hence_. For,
independent of my youth, and my _great_ repugnance to change my
present position, there is _no anxiety_ evinced in _this country_ for
such an event, and it would be more prudent, in my opinion, to wait
till some such demonstration is shown,--else if it were hurried it
might produce discontent.
Though all the reports of Albert are most favourable, and though
I have little doubt I shall like him, still one can never answer
beforehand for _feelings_, and I may not have the _feeling_ for him
which is requisite to ensure happiness. I _may_ like him as a friend,
and as a _cousin_, and as a _brother_, but not _more_; and should this
be the case (which is not likely), I am _very_ anxious that it should
be understood that I am _not_ guilty of any breach of promise, for
_I never gave any_. I am sure you will understand my anxiety, for I
should otherwise, were this not completely understood, be in a very
painful position. As it is, I am rather nervous about the visit, for
the subject I allude to is not an agreeable one to me. I have little
else to say, dear Uncle, as I have now spoken openly to you, which I
was very, _very anxious_ to do.
You will be at Paris, I suppose, when you get this letter, and I
therefore beg you to lay me at the feet of the whole family, and to
believe me ever your very devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _20th July 1839._
The Queen anxiously hopes Lord Melbourne has slept well, and has not
suffered from last night. It was very wrong of him not to wish the
Queen good-night, as she expected he would in so small a party, for
she _saw_ that he did _not_ go away immediately after supper. When
did he get home? It was great pleasure to the Queen that he came last
night. We kept up the dancing till past three, and the Queen was much
amused, and slept soundly from four till half-past ten, which she is
ashamed of. She is quite well, but has got a good deal of cold in her
head; she hopes to see Lord Melbourne at two.
[Pageheading: THE DUCHESS OF BRAGANZA]
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _25th July 1839._
The Queen has seen the Duchess of Braganza,[47] who, though a good
deal changed, is still handsome, and very amiable; she seemed so glad,
too, to see the Queen again. The child[48] is grown a dear fine girl.
Lord Palmerston thought it right that I should ask her to dinner also
on Saturday and take her to the Opera; and on Sunday, as she came on
purpose to see the Queen, and goes on Monday.
On Sunday (besides Lord Melbourne) the Queen proposes asking
Palmerston, Normanby, Uxbridge, and Surrey, and no one else except the
Duchess's suite. The Queen hopes Lord Melbourne will approve of this.
He will not forget to let the Queen know how the debate is going on,
at about nine or ten, as she will be curious to know. She trusts he
will not suffer from the fatigue of to-night.
[Footnote 47: The step-mother of Donna Maria. Pedro I. assumed
the title of Duke of Braganza after his abdication.]
[Footnote 48: Probably the princess known as "Chica,"
afterwards Princesse de Joinville.]
[Pageheading: SYRIAN AFFAIRS]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
ST CLOUD, _26th July 1839._
... Everything is pretty quiet, and the _grâce accordée à Barbès_[49]
has put down the rage against the King personally, at least for some
little time. The affairs of the Orient interest a good deal. I think
that it is better the Porte should be on a favourable footing with
Mehemet Ali than if that gentleman had pushed on in arms, as it will
put the _casus foederis_ out of the question, and the Turks will not
call in the assistance of the Russians. Whoever pushed the late Sultan
into this war has done an act of great folly, as it could only bring
the Porte into jeopardy.
[Footnote 49: Armand Barbès, the leader of a fatal riot
in Paris, was sentenced to death, a sentence afterwards
remitted.]
_Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._
_3rd August 1839._
Lord Melbourne will wait upon your Majesty at a quarter before five,
if possible, but there is much to discuss at the Cabinet. The Caspian
Pasha has taken the Turkish fleet to Alexandria,[50] and Mehemet Ali
says that he will not give it up to the Sultan until he dismisses the
Grand Vizier, and acknowledges the hereditary right of the Pasha to
the countries which he at present governs. This is to make the Sultan
his subject and his vassal.
The accounts from Birmingham are by no means good.[51] There has
been no disturbance of the peace, but the general disposition is both
violent and determined.
[Footnote 50: The Viceroy of Egypt had revolted against the
Porte, and on 8th June the Sultan purported to deprive him and
Ibrahim, his son, of their dignities. War was declared,
and the Turkish fleet despatched to Syria. But the Admiral
treacherously sailed to Alexandria, and the Ottoman troops,
under Hafiz, who had succeeded Mehemet Ali in the Government
of Egypt, were utterly routed. With the traitorous conduct
of the Turkish admiral, Disraeli, a few years later, compared
Peel's conversion to Free Trade.]
[Footnote 51: Chartist riots were very frequent at the time.
_See_ Introductory Note, _ante_, p. 141. (to Ch. VIII)]
[Pageheading: THE OPERA]
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _4th August 1839._
The Queen hopes Lord Melbourne is quite well this morning, and did not
sit up working very late last night; the Queen met him twice yesterday
in the Park, and really wondered how anybody _could_ ride, for she
came home much hotter than she went out, and thought the air quite
like as if it came out of an oven; to-day we can breathe again. It was
intensely hot at the Opera; the Queen-Dowager visited the Queen in her
box, as did also the young Grand Duke of Weimar, who is just returned
from Scotland, and whom the Queen has asked to come after dinner
to-morrow. The Queen has not asked the Duke of Sussex to come after
dinner to-morrow, as she thought he would be bored by such a sort of
party; does not Lord Melbourne think so? and she means to ask him to
dinner soon.
The Queen has not asked Lord Melbourne about any days this week
besides to-morrow (when she trusts he may be able to come, but she
does not know what there is in the House) and Wednesday; but perhaps
Lord Melbourne will consent to leave Thursday and Friday open in
_case_ he should be able to come one or both of those days.
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _4th August 1839._
The Queen has just received Lord Melbourne's letter; and wishes to
know if Lord Melbourne means by "to-day" that he is also coming to
see her _this afternoon_, (which she does not expect) as well as _this
evening_? for she did _not_ ask him in her note of this morning _if_
he would come to-night (for she felt _sure_ of that), but if he could
come _to-morrow_, about which he has not answered her, as to whether
he expects there will be anything of great length in the House of
Lords. Lord Melbourne will forgive the Queen's troubling him again,
but she felt a little puzzled by his letter; she sent him a card for
Wednesday without previously asking him, as she thought that would
suit him, and hopes it does?
The Queen will follow Lord Melbourne's advice respecting the Duke of
Sussex.
We have just returned from hearing not only a very long, and very bad,
but also, a very ludicrous, sermon.
The heat is somewhat less, but the Queen is undecided as to driving
out or not.
[Pageheading: KING LOUIS PHILIPPE]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
LAEKEN, _9th August 1839._
... I am sorry that you are less pleased with the old Duke, but party
spirit is in England an incurable disease. These last two years he had
rendered essential service to the present Administration; perhaps he
has been soured by last summer's events. It was my intention to have
answered your questions sooner, but from Paris I had not the means.
Now the time draws so near when I hope to have the happiness of seeing
you, that I think it will be better to treat the matter verbally, the
more so as my most beloved Majesty is easily displeased with what may
be written with the best intention, instead that in conversation the
immediate reply renders any misunderstanding, however small, very
difficult; and as I do not wish to have any great or small with you,
and see no occasion for it, I will give my answer _de vive voix_.
Now comes a subject which will _astonish_ you. I am charged _de
sonder_ your will and pleasure on the following subject. The King my
father-in-law goes to Eu, where he hopes to remain till the 5th or 6th
of September. Having at his disposition some very fine steamers, his
great wish would be to go over to Brighton, just for one afternoon and
night, to offer you his respects in person. He would in such a
case bring with him the Queen, my Aunt, Clémentine,[52] Aumale and
Montpensier. The first step in this business is to know what
your pleasure is, and to learn that very frankly, as he perfectly
understands that, however short such a visit, it must be submitted to
the advice even of some of your Ministers. What renders the thing very
difficult, in my opinion, is that in a country like France, and with
so many Ministerial difficulties, the King to the _last hour_ will
hardly know if he can undertake the thing. As, however, the first
object is to know your will, he begged me to ascertain that, and to
tell you that if you had the _smallest objection_ you would not be
carried away by the apprehension of hurting him by telling me honestly
that you did _not_ see how the affair could be arranged, but to speak
out, that he knew enough how often objections may arise, and that even
with himself he could only be sure of the thing at the last moment.
[Footnote 52: Who afterwards married Queen Victoria's cousin,
Prince Augustus (Gusti) of Coburg.]
[Pageheading: THE NEW SULTAN]
_Viscount Palmerston to Queen Victoria._
FOREIGN OFFICE, _19th August 1839._
Viscount Palmerston presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and in
submitting the accompanying private letter from the Earl Granville[53]
begs to state that neither Viscount Melbourne nor Viscount Palmerston
are of opinion that it would be expedient that your Majesty should
send an Ambassador Extraordinary to compliment the young Sultan[54]
on his accession. The circumstances connected with his accession are
indeed fitter matter for condolence than for congratulation, and he
would probably be better pleased by the restoration of his fleet than
by the arrival of Ambassadors Extraordinary. Moreover, it has not been
customary for the Sovereign of England to send such missions upon the
accession of Sultans.
[Footnote 53: The first Earl Granville (1773-1846), formerly
Ambassador Extraordinary to the Russian Court, at this time
Ambassador at Paris.]
[Footnote 54: Abdul Medjid, a lad of sixteen, succeeded the
Sultan Mahmoud. The majority of the Powers agreed to place him
under the protection of Europe, and to warn Mehemet Ali
that the matter was for Europe, not him, to decide. France,
however, wished to support Mehemet, and direct the Alliance
against Russia. But Nicholas I. of Russia was prepared to
support England as far as regarded the affairs of Turkey and
Egypt, and to close the Dardanelles and Bosphorus to warships
of all nations, it being stipulated that Russian ships of war
only were to pass the Bosphorus, as acting under the mandate
of Europe in defence of the Turks. _See_ further, Introductory
Notes for 1839 and 1840. (to Ch. VIII and Ch. IX)]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
OSTENDE, _24th August 1839._
... The King's intention would be to leave Eu in the evening, let us
say at eight or nine o'clock, and to land, perhaps at ten or eleven,
at Brighton on the _following morning_. He would have the honour of
dining with you, and would re-embark in the _evening of the same day_,
so as to be back on the _following morning_ at Eu. He will therefore,
as you see, _not_ sleep in England.
If you cannot give any _pied-à-terre_ in the Palace for these few
hours, they will remain in an hotel. But I must say that as the King
and Queen put themselves to _some inconvenience in coming_ to see
you, it would be _rather desirable_ to offer them rooms in the Palace,
which I think might be easily managed. As far as we are concerned, it
_does not matter_ if we are housed in an hotel or where we bivouac. I
will charge Van de Weyer to take rooms for us somewhere....
Do not imagine that I have done the least to bring this about for my
own satisfaction, which is _very limited_ in this business, but the
King wished _much to see you once_, and so did the Queen, who abhors
sailing more than anybody, and this is perhaps the _only_ opportunity
which may ever offer of doing it, even with some political benefit, as
it certainly is desirable that it should appear that the two maritime
Powers are on good terms.... And now, God bless you! Ever, my dearest
Victoria, your devoted Uncle,
LEOPOLD R.
[Pageheading: LOUIS PHILIPPE'S VISIT]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
OSTENDE, _25th August 1839._ (_La St Louis._)
MY DEAR VICTORIA,--To keep up the fire of letters, I write again,
having received this morning interesting news. As I must forward
this letter by Calais, and know not who may read it in these times of
curiosity, I am forced to be guarded; but the news are as follows,
of the 23rd--curious coincidence, as your letter was also of that
date--that, the moment _approaching, many and serious_ difficulties
arise, and that the expedition was considered imprudent by some
people, that, besides, the presence would perhaps be required,
before the _possible_ departure, at the _usual home_ of the person
interested, that therefore for the present it would perhaps be best to
give it up. I must say that I am _most happy_ that matters have come
to this pass, because it would have been next to impossible to arrange
affairs properly in proper time. You may now consider everything _as
over_, and settle your plans without reference to it....
[Pageheading: THE VISIT POSTPONED]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _26th August 1839._
MY DEAREST UNCLE,--I had already written you a letter when I received
your two very kind ones, and I shall therefore not send my first. My
friendship for the dear King and Queen makes me, as you may easily
understand, wish most exceedingly to see them and to make the
acquaintance of the Queen and all the family. And I feel the immense
kindness of them all in wishing to see me, and in coming over for only
a few hours. Politically it would be _wished_ by _us all_, and the
_only_ difficulty I see is the following, which is, that _I do not
feel quite_ equal to going to Brighton and receiving them all, so soon
after the Prorogation.[55] I do not _feel_ well; I feel _thoroughly_
exhausted from all that I have gone through this Session, and am quite
knocked up by the two little trips I made to Windsor. This makes me
fear, uncertain as it all is, with such a pressure of business, so
many affairs, and with so much going on, that I should be unequal to
the journey and the whole thing. This, and this _alone_, could make me
express a wish that this most kind visit should take place _next_
year instead of this year. I feel such regret really in saying this--I
should so wish to see them, and yet I feel I am not _quite_ up to
it. You will understand me, dear Uncle, I am certain, as I know the
anxiety you always express for my health. For _once_ I _long_ to leave
London, and shall do so on Friday. If you could be at Windsor by the
4th, I should be delighted.
The dear Ferdinands, whom I _all dearly_ love, will await you here.
I have had so much to do and so many people to see, that I feel quite
confused, and have written shockingly, which you must forgive. Ever
your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Footnote 55: On 27th August.]
[Pageheading: THE QUEEN'S SPEECH]
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _26 August 1839._ (_10 minutes to 12._)
The Queen has received both Lord Melbourne's notes; she was a good
deal vexed at his not coming, as she had begged him herself to do so,
and as he wrote to say he would, and also as she thinks it right and
of importance that Lord Melbourne should be here at large dinners; the
Queen _insists_ upon his coming to dinner to-morrow, and also begs him
to do so on Wednesday, her two last nights in town, and as she will
probably not see him at all for two days when she goes on Friday;
the Queen would wish to see Lord Melbourne _after_ the Prorogation
to-morrow at any hour _before_ five he likes best.
The Queen has been a good deal annoyed this evening at Normanby's
telling her that John Russell was coming to town next Monday in order
to _change_ with _him_.[56] Lord Melbourne _never_ told the Queen that
this was definitely settled; on the contrary, he said it would "remain
in our hands," to use Lord Melbourne's own words, and only be settled
during the Vacation; considering all that the Queen has said on the
subject to Lord Melbourne, and considering the great confidence the
Queen has in Lord Melbourne, she thinks and feels he ought to have
told her that this was _settled_, and not let the Queen be the
last person to hear what is settled and done in her own name; Lord
Melbourne will excuse the Queen's being a little eager about this, but
it has happened once before that she learnt from other people what had
been decided on.
The Queen has such unlimited confidence in Lord Melbourne that she
knows all that he does is right, but she cannot help being a little
vexed at not being told things, when she is accustomed to great
confidence on Lord Melbourne's part.
Lord Melbourne may rely on the Queen's secrecy respecting Howick; he
knows the Queen always keeps things to herself; Normanby hinted at his
wish to get rid of Howick.
The Speech is safely arrived, has been read over twice, and shall not
be forgotten to-morrow; the Queen wishes they would not use such thin
and slippery paper--for it is difficult to hold with nervous, and, as
Lord Melbourne knows, _shaking_ hands. The Queen trusts Lord Melbourne
will be less tired in the morning.
[Footnote 56: _See_ Introductory Note, _ante_, p. 141. (to Ch. VIII)]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
OSTENDE, _21st September 1839._
MY DEAREST VICTORIA,--Your _delightful_ little letter has just arrived
and went like _an arrow to my heart._ Yes, my beloved Victoria! I _do
love you tenderly_, and with all the power of affection which is often
found in characters who do not make much outward show of it. I love
you _for yourself_, and I love in you the dear child whose welfare I
carefully watched. My great wish is always that you should _know_
that I am _desirous_ of _being useful_ to you, without _hoping for
any other return_ than some little affection from your warm and kind
heart. I am even so far pleased that my eternal political affairs are
settled, as it takes away the _last possibility_ of imagining that I
may want something or other. I have all the honours that can be given,
and I am, politically speaking, very solidly established, more so than
most Sovereigns in Europe. The only political longing I still have
is for the Orient, where I perhaps shall once end my life, unlike
the sun, rising in the West and setting in the East. I never press
my services on you, nor my councils, though I may say with some truth
that from the extraordinary fate which the higher Powers had ordained
for me, my experience, both political and of private life, is great. I
am _always ready_ to be useful to you _when and where_ it may be, and
I repeat it, _all I want in return is some little sincere affection
from you_....
And now I conclude for to-day, not without expressing again my
satisfaction and pleasure at having seen you yesterday morning with
your dear honest face, looking so dear in your morning attire. Our
time was spent very satisfactorily, and only the weather crossed our
wishes, and to that one can submit when everything else is delightful.
Once more, God bless you! Ever, my dearest Victoria, your devoted
Uncle,
LEOPOLD R.
[Pageheading: VISIT OF PRINCE ALBERT]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _25th September 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--You will, I think, laugh when you get this letter,
and will think I only mean to employ you in _stopping_ my relations at
Brussels, but I think you will approve of my wish. In the first place
I don't think one can _reckon_ on the Cousins arriving here on the
30th. Well, all I want is that _you_ should detain them one or two
days longer, in order that they may arrive here on _Thursday, the
3rd_, if possible _early_. My reason for this is as follows: a number
of the Ministers are coming down here on Monday to stay till Thursday,
on affairs of great importance, and as you know that people are always
on the alert to make remarks, I think if _all_ the Ministers were to
be down here when they arrive, people would say--it was to _settle
matters_. At all events it is better to avoid this. I think indeed a
day or two at Brussels will do these young gentlemen good, and
they can be properly fitted out there for their visit. Ever yours
devotedly,
VICTORIA R.
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _1st October 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--I received your kind letter on Sunday, for which many
thanks. The _retard_ of these young people puts me rather out, but of
course cannot be helped. I had a letter from Albert yesterday saying
they could not set off, he thought, before the 6th. I think they don't
exhibit much _empressement_ to come here, which rather shocks me.
I got a very nice letter from dear Alexander yesterday from
Reinhardtsbrun;[57] he says Albert is very much improved, but not
taller than Augustus. His description of him is as follows:--"Albert,
I found, had become stronger and more handsome; still he has not grown
much taller; he is of about the same size as Augustus; he is a most
pleasant, intelligent young man. I find, too, that he has become more
lively than he was, and that sits well on him, too." (_Translation._)
I think you may like to hear this, as I know Alexander is a very
correct observer of persons, and his opinion may be relied upon. He
adds that Albert plagues Leopold beyond measure.
I shall take care and send a gentleman and carriages to meet my
cousins, either at Woolwich or the Tower, at whichever place you
inform me they land at. The sooner they come the better. I have got
the house _full_ of Ministers. On Monday the Queen Dowager is coming
to sleep here for two nights; it is the _first time_, and will be a
severe trial. Ever your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Footnote 57: A picturesque castle, about eight miles from
Gotha.]
[Pageheading: A CHARM AGAINST EVIL]
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _7th October 1839._
The Queen sends the little _charm_ which she hopes may keep Lord
Melbourne from _all evil_, and which it will make her very happy if he
will put [? it with] his keys. If the ring is too small Lord Melbourne
must send it back to her, and she will have it altered.
The Queen has made up her mind at length to ask Lady Clanricarde, as
Lord Melbourne wishes it so much. Shall Surrey invite her, or Lord
Palmerston? and from Thursday to Friday?
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _8th October 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--I have to thank you for three kind letters of the 1st,
4th, and 5th, the last which I received yesterday. I received another
letter from Alex. M. yesterday, _since Ernest's arrival_, and he says
that they have determined on setting off, so as to embark at Antwerp
on the 9th and be here after all on the 10th! I suppose you will have
also heard. I shall therefore (unless I hear from you to the contrary)
send one of my equerries and two carriages to the Tower on _Thursday_.
I am sorry to hear of the serious disturbances at Ghent; I trust it
is all got under now. If you should hear anything more of Roi
Guillaume's[58] marriage, pray let me hear it, as it is such an odd
story. Old Alava, who was here for two nights last week, told me he
knew _Pauline d'Oultremont_ many years ago, when she was young and
very gay and pretty, but that he wonders much at this marriage, as the
King hates Catholics. Alava is _rayonnant de bonheur_.
I told Lord Melbourne of your alarms respecting the financial crisis,
which _we_ did not bring on--those wild American speculations are the
cause of it--and he desires me to assure you that we will pursue as
moderate and cautious a course as possible.
The Queen Dowager came here yesterday and stays till to-morrow; she is
very cheerful and in good spirits....
I must conclude in haste. Ever your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
Many thanks for the two supplies of ortolans, which were delicious.
[Footnote 58: William I., King of the Netherlands, was greatly
attached to the Roman Catholic Countess d'Oultremont, and in
October 1840, being sixty-seven, abdicated his Crown to marry
her. He was father of the Prince of Orange, who succeeded
him.]
[Pageheading: ARRIVAL OF PRINCE ALBERT]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _12th October 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--... The dear cousins arrived at half-past seven on
Thursday, after a very bad and almost dangerous passage, but looking
both very well, and much improved. Having no clothes, they could not
appear at dinner, but nevertheless _débutéd_ after dinner in their
_négligé_. Ernest is grown quite handsome; Albert's _beauty_ is
_most striking_, and he so amiable and unaffected--in short, very
_fascinating_; he is excessively admired here. The Granvilles and Lord
Clanricarde[59] happened just to be here, but are gone again to-day.
We rode out yesterday and danced after dinner. The young men are very
amiable, delightful companions, and I am very happy to have them here;
they are playing some Symphonies of Haydn _under_ me at this very
moment; they are passionately fond of music.
In the way of news I have got nothing to tell you to-day. Everything
is quiet here, and we have no particular news from abroad. In Spain
the Fueros[60] seem to give sad difficulty to the Cortes.
Ever, my dearest Uncle, your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Footnote 59: Ulick John, first Marquis of Clanricarde
(1802-1874), Ambassador at St Petersburg, afterwards Lord
Privy Seal.]
[Footnote 60: Certain rights and privileges of the Basques.]
[Pageheading: A MOMENTOUS DECISION]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _15th October 1839._
MY DEAREST UNCLE,--This letter will, I am sure, give you pleasure,
for you have always shown and taken so warm an interest in all that
concerns me. My mind is quite made up--and I told Albert this morning
of it; the warm affection he showed me on learning this gave me
_great_ pleasure. He seems _perfection_, and I think that I have the
prospect of very great happiness before me. I _love_ him _more_ than I
can say, and I shall do everything in my power to render the sacrifice
he has made (for a _sacrifice_ in my opinion it is) as small as I
can. He seems to have a very great tact--a very necessary thing in his
position. These last few days have passed like a dream to me, and I
am so much bewildered by it all that I know hardly how to write; but I
_do_ feel _very_, _very_ happy.
It is absolutely necessary that this determination of mine should be
known to _no one_ but yourself, and Uncle Ernest--till the meeting of
Parliament--as it would be considered otherwise neglectful on my part
not to have assembled Parliament at once to have informed them of
it.... Lord Melbourne, whom I of course have consulted about the whole
affair, quite approves my choice, and expresses great satisfaction
at the event, which he thinks in every way highly desirable. Lord
Melbourne has acted in this business, as he has always done towards
me, with the greatest kindness and affection.
We also think it better, and Albert quite approves of it, that
we should be married very soon after Parliament meets, about the
beginning of February; and indeed, loving Albert as I do, I cannot
wish it should be delayed. My feelings are a _little_ changed, I must
say, since last Spring, when I said I couldn't _think_ of marrying for
_three or four years_; but seeing Albert has changed all this.
Pray, dearest Uncle, forward these two letters to Uncle Ernest
(to whom I beg you will enjoin _strict_ secrecy, and explain these
details, which I have not time to do) and to faithful Stockmar.
I think you might tell Louise of it, but none of her family. I should
wish to keep the dear young gentlemen here till the end of next month.
Ernest's sincere pleasure gave me great delight. He does so adore
dearest Albert. Ever, dearest Uncle, your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
_Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _16th October 1839._
Lord Melbourne will be ready to wait upon your Majesty at a little
before one.
Lord Melbourne reads with great satisfaction your Majesty's expression
of feeling, as your Majesty's happiness must ever be one of Lord
Melbourne's first objects and strongest interests.
[Pageheading: KING LEOPOLD'S SATISFACTION]
[Pageheading: AUSTRIA AND THE PORTE]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
WIESBADEN, _24th October 1839._
MY DEAREST VICTORIA,--Nothing could have given me greater pleasure
than your dear letter. I had, when I saw your decision, almost the
feeling of old Zacharias[61]--"Now lettest Thou Thy servant depart
in peace"! Your choice had been for these last years my conviction of
what might and would be _best_ for your happiness; and just because I
was convinced of it, and knowing how _strangely_ fate often _deranges_
what one tries to bring about as being the best plan one could fix
upon, _the maximum of a good arrangement_, I feared that it would
_not_ happen. In your position, which may and will, perhaps, become
in future even more difficult in a political point of view, _you could
not exist_ without having a _happy_ and an _agreeable intérieur_.
And I am much deceived--which I think I am not--or you will find
in Albert just the very qualities and dispositions which are
indispensable for your happiness, and _which will suit your own
character, temper, and mode of life_. You say most amiably that you
consider it a sacrifice on the part of Albert. This is true in many
points, because his position will be a difficult one; but much, I may
say _all_, will depend on your affection for him. If _you love him,
and are kind to him_, he will easily bear the burthen of the position;
and there is a steadiness and at the same time cheerfulness in his
character which will facilitate this. I think your plans excellent.
If Parliament had been called at an unusual time it would make them
uncomfortable, and if, therefore, they receive the communication at
the opening of the Session, it will be best. The marriage, as you say,
might then follow as closely as possible.
Lord Melbourne has shown himself the _amiable_ and _excellent_ man I
always took him for. Another man in his position, instead of _your_
happiness, might have merely looked to his own personal views and
imaginary interests. Not so our good friend; he saw what was best _for
you_, and I feel it deeply to his praise.
Your keeping the cousins next month with you strikes me as a very good
plan. It will even show that you had sufficient opportunity of judging
of Albert's character....
On the 22nd, Prince Metternich came to see me. He was very kind, and
talked most confidentially about political affairs, particularly the
Oriental concerns.[62] M. de Brunnow had been with him. The short of
his views is this: he wishes that the Powers could be _unanimous_,
as he sees in this the best chance of avoiding measures of violence
against the Pasha of Egypt, which he considers _dangerous_, either as
_not_ sufficiently effective, or of a nature to bring on complications
most earnestly to be avoided, such as making use of Russian troops.
Austria naturally would like to bring about the best possible
arrangement for the Porte, but it will adhere to any arrangement or
proposition which can be agreed upon by England and France. He is,
however, positive that Candia must be given back to the Porte, its
position being too threatening, and therefore constantly alarming the
Porte. He made me write the import of our conversation to King Louis
Philippe, which I did send after him to Frankfort, where he was to
forward it to Paris. Perhaps you will have the goodness to communicate
this political scrap to good Lord Melbourne with my best regards. He
spoke in praise of Lord Beauvale.[63] The Prince is better, but grown
very old and looking tired. It gave me great pleasure to see him
again.
I drink the waters now four days, and can therefore not yet judge of
their good or bad effects. My palpitations are rather increased here;
if my stupid heart will get diseased I shall soon be departing for
some other world. I would it could be soon then.
Till further orders I shall say nothing to your Mother, Charles, or
Feodore.
Now I will conclude with my best blessings, and remain, my dearest and
most beloved Victoria, your devoted Uncle,
LEOPOLD R.
[Footnote 61: An obvious slip for Simeon.]
[Footnote 62: _See_ Introductory Notes for 1839 and 1840.
(to Ch. VIII and Ch. IX)]
[Footnote 63: Frederick Lamb, younger brother of Lord
Melbourne, Ambassador Extraordinary at Vienna, who had
recently been made a Peer.]
[Pageheading: THE QUEEN'S HAPPINESS]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _29th October 1839._
MY DEAREST UNCLE,--Your most kind and most welcome letter of the 24th
arrived yesterday, and gave me very, very great pleasure. I was sure
you would be satisfied and pleased with our proceedings.
Before I proceed further, I wish just to mention one or two
alterations in the plan of announcing the event.
As Parliament has _nothing_ whatever to say respecting the marriage,
can neither approve nor disapprove it (I mean in a manner which might
_affect_ it), it is now proposed that, as soon as the cousins are gone
(which they now intend to do on the 12th or 14th of November, as time
presses), I should assemble all the Privy Councillors and announce to
them my intention....
Oh! dear Uncle, I _do_ feel so happy! I do so adore Albert! he is
quite an angel, and so very, very kind to me, and seems so fond of me,
which touches me much. I trust and hope I shall be able to make him
as happy as he _ought_ to be! I cannot bear to part from him, for we
spend such happy, delightful hours together.
Poor Ernest has been suffering since Wednesday last with the jaundice,
which is very distressing and troublesome, though not alarming.... I
love him dearly too, and look upon him quite as a brother.
What you say about Lord Melbourne has given me great pleasure; it is
very just and very true. There are not many _such_ honest kind friends
to be found in this world. He desires me to say that he is deeply
sensible of your good opinion, and that he can have no other object
than that which he considers best to secure my happiness, which is
closely connected with the well-being of the country.
I am glad you saw Prince Metternich, and that you were satisfied with
the interview.
I hope and trust you may derive much benefit from your stay at
Wiesbaden. Pray name me to good Stockmar, and believe me, always, your
most devoted Niece and Child,
VICTORIA R.
[Pageheading: CONGRATULATIONS]
_The Queen of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
LAEKEN, _9th November 1839._
MY MOST BELOVED VICTORIA,--Your Uncle has already told you, I trust,
with what feelings of deep affection and gratitude I received the so
_interesting_ and _important_ communication which you permitted him
to make to me; but I was longing for an opportunity to speak to you
myself of the great subject which fills now our hearts, and to tell
you how very grateful I have been, I am, and will ever be, for the
confidence and trust which you so kindly placed in me. All I can
say is that you did full justice to my feelings, for _nothing_ could
interest _more_ my heart than _your_ marriage, my most dearly loved
Victoria, and I could not have heard even of that of Clémentine with
_more_ anxious affection and sisterly love. I cannot really tell you
_with words_ how deeply and strongly I was moved and affected by the
great news itself, and by your dear, unaffected, confiding, happy
letter. When I received it I could do nothing but cry, and say
internally, "May God bless her now and ever!" Ah! may God bless you,
my most beloved Victoria! may He shower on you His best blessings,
fulfil _all_ your heart's wishes and hopes, and let you enjoy for
_many, many years_ the happiness which the dearest ties of affection
_alone_ can give, and which is the only _real_ one, the only worthy of
the name in this uncertain and transitory world!
I have seen much of dear Albert two years ago, I have watched him, as
you may well think, with particular care, attention, and interest, and
although he was very young then, I am well convinced that he is not
only fit for the situation which he is now called to fulfil, but, what
is still more important in my eyes, that he has _all those qualities_
of the heart and the mind which can give and ensure happiness. I think
even that his disposition is particularly well calculated to suit
yours, and I am fully confident that you will be both happy together.
What you tell me of your fear of not being worthy of him, and able to
make him sufficiently happy, is for me but a proof more of it. Deep
affection makes us always diffident and _very humble_. Those that we
love stand so high in our own esteem, and are in our opinion so much
above us and all others that we naturally feel unworthy of them and
unequal to the task of making them happy: but there is, I think, a
mingled charm in this feeling, for although we regret not to be
what we should wish to be for them, feeling and acknowledging the
superiority of those we love and must always love and respect, is a
great satisfaction, and an increasing and everlasting one. You will
feel it, I am sure, as well as I do....
You will excuse my blots and hurried scribbling when I will tell you
that in order to profit of the private messenger which goes to-morrow
morning I write to you at ten in the evening, a thing quite unusual
for me, and even rather forbidden: but after having been deprived of
expending my heart for so many days, I could not _not_ avail myself of
the present opportunity. When I write to you by the ordinary messenger
I will continue to be _silent_; but I trust you will permit me to
say some time a word, when a safe opportunity presents itself, for my
heart is with you more than I can tell. I would that I could see you,
when it could be, for an hour. I remain, my most beloved Victoria,
ever and ever your most affectionate
LOUISE.
[Pageheading: THE ANNOUNCEMENT]
_Queen Victoria to the Duke of Sussex._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _11th November 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--The affection which you have shown me makes me feel
certain that you will take interest in an event which so nearly
concerns the future happiness of my life; I cannot, therefore, delay
any longer to inform you of my intended marriage with my Cousin
Albert, the merits of whose character are so well known by all who
are acquainted with him, that I need say no more than that I feel as
assured of my own happiness as I can be of anything in this world.
As it is not to be publicly known, I beg you not to mention it except
to our own Family.
I hope you are well and enjoying yourself. Believe me, always, your
affectionate Niece,
VICTORIA R.[64]
[Footnote 64: Similar letters with slight variations were
written to the Duke of Cambridge, the Princess Augusta, the
Princess Sophia, the Duchess of Gloucester, the Princess
Sophia Matilda, the King of Hanover, and the Princess
Elizabeth (Landgravine of Hesse-Homburg).]
_Queen Victoria to Queen Adelaide._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _14th November 1839._
MY DEAR AUNT,--Your constant kindness and the affection you have ever
shown me make me certain that you will take much interest in an event
which so nearly concerns the future happiness of my life; I cannot,
therefore, any longer delay to inform you of my intended marriage with
my Cousin Albert. The merits of his character are so well known to all
who are acquainted with him, that I need say no more than that I feel
as assured of my own happiness as I can be of anything here below, and
only hope that I may be able to make him as happy as he deserves to
be. It was both my duty and my inclination to tell you of this as
soon as it was determined upon; but, as it is not to be yet publicly
announced I beg you not to mention it except to our own Family. I
thank you much for your kind letter, and rejoice to hear you have
enjoyed yourself so much. Believe me, always, your very affectionate
Niece,
VICTORIA R.
_Queen Victoria to Viscount Melbourne._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _18th November 1839._
The Queen just writes two lines to send Lord Melbourne the
accompanying civil letter from the Queen Dowager, and to give him an
account of the visit of the Cambridges. They were all very kind and
civil, George grown but not embellished, and much less reserved with
the Queen, and evidently happy to be _clear_ of me. He gave a very
indifferent account of the King of Greece, but a favourable one of the
Queen.
The Duchess said she had expected the Queen would marry Albert, and
was not surprised at the event. They were very discreet and asked no
questions, but described the Duchess of Gloucester to be _suffering_
much from the necessity of keeping the secret.
The weather cleared up, and the Queen has just returned from a walk.
She hopes Lord Melbourne got safe to London in spite of the wet
and the water on the road; and she hopes he will take great care of
himself. She would be thankful if he would let her know to-morrow if
he will dine with her also on Thursday or not.
[Pageheading: LETTERS TO PRINCE ALBERT]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _19th November 1839_.
MY DEAR UNCLE,--Many thanks for your kind letter of the 5th, received
last week. I am in a great hurry, and therefore have only time to
write to you a line to tell you, first, that on the 15th I wrote
to all the Royal Family announcing the event to them, and that they
answered all very kindly and civilly; the Duchess of Cambridge
and Augusta, with the Duke and George, came over on purpose to
congratulate me yesterday; secondly, that the marriage is to be
_publicly announced_ in an Open Council on the 23rd, at Buckingham
Palace, where I am going to-morrow. I return here _after_ the Council
on the 23rd. I am so happy to think I need not then conceal my
feelings any longer. I have also written to the King of Hanover and
the Landgravine,[65] and to all our relations abroad. I hope, dear
Uncle, you will not have _ill-treated_ my dearest Albert! I am very
anxious to hear from him from Wiesbaden. Ever your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Footnote 65: Princess Elizabeth (1770-1840), daughter of
George III. and widow of the Landgrave Frederick Joseph Louis
of Hesse-Homburg.]
[The following extracts of letters from the Queen to Prince Albert
were written partly in English and partly in German. The English
portions are printed in italics, the German, translated, in ordinary
type. These letters are all written in terms of profound affection,
which deepened very shortly into complete and absolute devotion to the
Prince.]
_Queen Victoria to Prince Albert._
BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _21st November 1839._
... It is desired here that the matter should be declared at Coburg
as soon as possible, and immediately after that I shall send you the
Order.[66]
_Your rank will be settled just before you come over, as also your_
_rank in the Army._ Everything will be very easily arranged. Lord
Melbourne showed me yesterday the _Declaration_, which is very simple
and nice. I will send it you as soon as possible....
_Lord Melbourne told me yesterday, that the whole Cabinet are strongly
of opinion that you should NOT be made a Peer._ I will write that to
Uncle....
[Footnote 66: The Garter.]
[Pageheading: THE RELIGIOUS QUESTION]
_22nd November 1839._
... Lord Melbourne has just been with me, and greatly wishes the
Declaration to be made at Coburg as soon as possible. _He also desired
me to ask you to see if you can ... a short History of the House of
Saxe-Coburg, who our direct ancestors were, and what part they took in
the Protestant, or rather Lutheran, religion; he wishes to hear this
in order to make people here know exactly who your ancestors are, for
a few stupid people_ here _try_ to say you are a _Catholic, but nobody
will believe it._ Send (it) as soon as possible; perhaps good Mr.
Schenk would write it out in English....
_As there is nothing to be settled for me, we require no treaty of
marriage; but if you should require anything to be settled, the best
will be to send it here. Respecting the succession, in case Ernest
should die without children, it would not do to stipulate now, but
your second son, if you had one, should reside at Coburg. That can
easily be arranged if the thing should happen hereafter, and the
English would not like it to be arranged now...._
[Pageheading: THE DECLARATION]
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _23rd November 1839._
... Just arrived here, 5.30. Everything has gone off very well. The
Council[67] was held at two o'clock; more than a hundred persons were
present, and _there_ I had to read the Declaration. _It was rather an
awful moment, to be obliged to announce this to so many people, many
of whom were quite strangers, but they told me I did it very well, and
I felt so happy to do it._
Good Lord Melbourne was deeply moved about it, and Uxbridge likewise;
it lasted only two or three minutes. _Everybody, they tell me, is very
much pleased, and I wish you could have seen the crowds of people who
cheered me loudly as I left the Palace for Windsor._ I am so happy
to-day! oh, if only _you_ could be here! I wish that you were able
to participate in all the kindness which is shown to me. To-day I can
only send you the Declaration.[68] _The description of the whole_ I
will send after this....
Send me as soon as possible the report of the announcement at Coburg.
I wear your dear picture mornings and evenings, and wore it also at
the meeting of the _Conseil._
[Footnote 67: A Special Meeting of the Privy Council was held
on the 23rd November, to receive the Queen's intimation of her
engagement. The Queen wrote in her Journal:--
"I went in; the room was full, but I hardly knew who was
there. Lord M. I saw, looking at me with tears in his eyes,
but he was not near me. I then read my short Declaration. I
felt my hands shook, but I did not make one mistake. I felt
more happy and thankful when it was over."]
[Footnote 68: J. W. Croker wrote to Lady Hardwicke:--
"_24th November 1839._
"... She then unfolded a paper and read her Declaration,
which you will, before this can reach you, have seen in the
newspapers. I cannot describe to you with what a mixture of
self-possession and feminine delicacy she read the paper. Her
voice, which is naturally beautiful, was clear and untroubled;
and her eye was bright and calm, neither bold nor downcast,
but firm and soft. There was a blush on her cheek which made
her look both handsomer and more interesting; and certainly
she _did_ look as interesting and as handsome as any young
lady I ever saw.
"I happened to stand behind the Duke of Wellington's chair,
and caught her eye twice as she directed it towards him, which
I fancy she did with a good-natured interest. ...The crowd,
which was not great but very decent, I might almost say
respectable, expressed their approbation of the Duke of
Wellington and Sir R. Peel, and their disapprobation of the
Ministers very loudly. Lord John and Lord Normanby, they tell
me, were positively hooted.... Lord Melbourne ... seemed to me
to look _careworn_, and on the whole the meeting had a sombre
air."--_Croker Papers_, ii. 359.]
[Pageheading: THE PEERAGE QUESTION]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
WIESBADEN, _22nd November 1839._
MY DEAREST VICTORIA,--I was delighted with your dear little letter.
You write these kind of letters with a very great facility, and they
are generally so natural and clever, that it makes one very happy
to receive them. I had written less of late, because I thought you
occupied more agreeably than to read my letters. I have on purpose
kept back a courier, to be able to send you the latest news from here
of M. Albert. The young people arrived here only on the 20th, in the
morning, having very kindly stopped at Bonn. I find them looking well,
particularly Albert; it proves that happiness is an excellent remedy,
and keeps people in better health than any other. He is much attached
to you, and moved when he speaks of you. He is, besides, in great
spirits and gaiety, and full of fun; he is a very amiable companion.
Concerning the peerage, that is a matter to be considered at any
time; the only reason why I do wish it is, that Albert's foreignership
should disappear as much as possible. I have, in different
circumstances to be sure, suffered greatly from my having declined
conditionally the peerage when it was offered me in 1816.[69] Your
Uncle[70] writes to you in German: as far as I understood him, he
speaks of the necessity of a marriage treaty; that is a matter of
course. There is, however, something additional to be regulated
concerning the possible succession in the Coburg-Gotha dominions,
there being betwixt it and Albert but good Ernest. Some regulation
becomes therefore necessary, at least reasonable. The Duke wishes also
to know if the treaty is to be made in England or in Germany.
Should the last of the two be fixed upon, he thinks that one of your
Ministers abroad would be the proper person for it. Ever, my dear
Victoria, your devoted Uncle,
LEOPOLD R.
[Footnote 69: The Dukedom of Kendal was offered to, and, after
consideration, declined by, Prince Leopold.]
[Footnote 70: The Duke of Saxe-Coburg (Ernest I.).]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _26th November 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--I thank you for your kind letter which I received
the day before yesterday; but I fear you must have been very dull at
Wiesbaden....
Everything went off uncommonly well on the 23rd, but it was rather
formidable;[71] eighty-two Privy Councillors present; everybody very
much pleased--and I was loudly greeted on leaving the Palace _after_
the Council.
The _whole Cabinet_ agree with me in being _strongly_ of opinion that
Albert should _not_ be a Peer; indeed, I see everything against it and
_nothing_ for it; the English are very jealous at the idea of Albert's
having any political power, or meddling with affairs here--which I
know from himself he will _not_ do.
As Wiesbaden is half-way (or thereabouts) to Coburg, I take the
liberty of enclosing a large letter to Albert, which I beg you to send
on to him.
We are quite flooded here, and the road to Datchet is quite
impassable. Ever your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Footnote 71: Greville mentions that the Queen's hands
trembled so, that she could hardly read the Declaration which
she was holding.]
[Pageheading: BRITISH SUSCEPTIBILITIES]
_Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._
_27th November 1839._
Lord Melbourne presents his humble duty to your Majesty....
A little civility would be well bestowed upon Lord and Lady
Tankerville, and might not be without its effect, but if your Majesty
does not like it, it cannot be helped.
The others also shall, if possible, be kept in good humour.
The misrepresentation, respecting Prince Alexander[72] your Majesty
will see corrected in the _Morning Chronicle_ of that morning, but of
course your Majesty will not expect that this contradiction will put
an end to bitter and offensive remarks. It will now be said that,
knowing the true religion, he has given over his children to the
false, and that he has sacrificed their eternal welfare to his own
worldly objects.[73] There is nothing which cannot be turned in an
hostile and malignant manner by malignant and perverted ingenuity.
Can your Majesty inform Lord Melbourne what is the arrangement
respecting King Leopold's children? They are, Lord Melbourne presumes,
to be brought up Roman Catholics.
Lord Melbourne earnestly hopes to hear that your Majesty is better and
more free from pain. He is himself very well.
[Footnote 72: Prince Alexander of Würtemberg.]
[Footnote 73: See _ante_, p. 150. (Ch. VIII, Footnote 22)]
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _27th November 1839._
_The English are very jealous of any foreigner interfering in the
government of this country, and have already in some of the papers
(which are friendly to me and you) expressed a hope that you would not
interfere. Now, though I know you never would, still, if you were a
Peer, they would all say, the Prince meant to play a political part._
I am certain you will understand this, but it is much better not to
say anything more about it now, and to let the whole matter rest.
The Tories make a great disturbance (saying) that you are _a Papist_,
because the words "_a Protestant Prince_" have not been put into the
Declaration--a thing which would be quite unnecessary, seeing that I
_cannot_ marry a _Papist_....
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
_29th November 1839._
I had a talk with Lord Melbourne last night. He thinks your view about
the Peerage question quite correct. Uncle seems to me, after all, much
more reasonable about it. We had a good talk this morning about
your arrangements for our marriage, and also about your official
attendants, and he[74] has told me that young Mr. Anson (his Private
Secretary), who is with him, greatly wishes to be with you. I am very
much in favour of it, because he is an excellent young man, and very
modest, very honest, very steady, very well-informed, and will be of
_much use_ to you. He is not a member of the House of Commons, which
is also convenient; so long as Lord Melbourne is in office he remains
his Secretary--but William Cowper[75] was also for some time Secretary
to his Uncle, and at the same time my Groom-in-Waiting. Lord Melbourne
feared it was not advisable for you to have Mr. Anson, and also his
uncle, but I told him that did not matter if the people are fit for
the posts....
[Footnote 74: Lord Melbourne.]
[Footnote 75: Afterwards William Cowper-Temple and Lord Mount
Temple, author of the well-known amendment to the Education
Act of 1870.]
[Pageheading: THE QUEEN OF PORTUGAL]
_Queen Maria II. of Portugal to Queen Victoria._
LISBONNE, _1 Décembre 1839._
MA BIEN CHÈRE VICTOIRE,--Hier ayant reçu la communication de votre
mariage avec Albert, je ne veux pas tarder un seul instant à vous
en féliciter sur votre heureux choix, et en même temps vous prier de
croire aux v[oe]ux sincères que je forme pour votre bonheur avec votre
excellent c[oe]ur il n'est pas possible le contraire. Permettez que je
vous dise que votre choix ne m'a pas dû étonner, car sachant combien
Albert est bon, vous ne pouviez pas choisir un autre dont vous fussiez
aussi sûre qu'il puisse vous rendre aussi heureuse comme vous le
méritez, chère Victoire. Pour que tous mes souhaits soient exaucés je
vous désire un bonheur aussi complet que l'est le mien. Qu'Albert soit
comme Ferdinand et vous serez parfaitement heureuse. Adieu! ma chère
Victoire. Je vous prie de me croire, votre dévouée Cousine,
MARIE.
Ferdinand vous fait dire mille choses.
[Pageheading: THE PRINCE'S HOUSEHOLD]
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _8th December 1839._
As to your wish about your gentlemen, my dear Albert, I must tell you
quite honestly that it will not do. You may entirely rely upon me that
the people who will be about you will be absolutely pleasant people,
of high standing and good character. _These gentlemen will not be in
continual attendance on you; only on great occasions, and to accompany
you when you go anywhere, and to dinners, etc. Seymour is your
confidential attendant, and also Schenk and Anson,[76] whom Lehzen
has written to you about._
_Old Sir George Anson has been told of your gracious wish to have him
as Groom of the Bedchamber and is delighted._
_I_ can only have _Lords_, and they will not be _Peers_, but _Lords_,
the eldest sons of Dukes or Marquesses, or Earls (Counts), and who as
far as possible are not in Parliament, for then they need not change,
_but your people are appointed by you and not by me (nominally), and
therefore, unless they were to vote against my Government (which would
be awkward), they need not change. You may rely upon my care that you
shall have proper people, and not idle and not too young, and Lord
Melbourne has already mentioned several to me who would be very
suitable...._
I have received to-day an ungracious letter from Uncle Leopold. He
appears to me to be nettled because I no longer ask for his advice,
but dear Uncle is given to believe that he must rule the roast
everywhere. However, that is not a necessity. As he has written to
Melbourne, Melbourne will reply to him on every point, and will also
tell him that Stockmar ought to come here as soon as possible to
arrange everything about the treaty. That will be a very good thing,
because Stockmar understands all English things so well.
The _Second_, as you always called Palmerston, is to be married within
the next few days to Lady Cowper, the sister of my Premier (_Primus_);
I have known this for a long time, but Melbourne asked me not to tell
it to any one. They are, both of them, above fifty, and I think that
they are quite right so to act, because Palmerston, since the death
of his sisters, is quite alone in the world, and _Lady C._ is a very
clever woman, and _much_ attached to him; still, I feel sure it will
make you smile.
[Footnote 76: Mr George Anson had been Private Secretary to
Lord Melbourne; it was on Lord Melbourne's recommendation that
the Queen appointed him Private Secretary to Prince Albert.
The Prince was inclined to resent the selection, and to think
that in the case of so confidential an official he should have
been allowed to make his own nomination. But they became firm
friends, and the Prince found Mr Anson's capacity, common
sense, and entire disinterestedness of the greatest value to
him. Later he became keeper of the Prince's Privy Purse, and
died in 1849.]
(_Continued on the 9th_).--To-day I have had a _Conseil_, and then I
knighted the Mayor of Newport[77] (who distinguished himself so much
in that _riot of the Chartists_[78]); he is a very timid, modest man,
and was very happy when I told him orally how exceedingly satisfied I
am with his conduct.... The officers have been rewarded too.... I am
plaguing you already with tiresome politics, but you will in that find
a proof of my [confidence] love,[79] because I must share with you
everything that rejoices me, everything that vexes or grieves me, and
I am certain you will take your part in it....
To-day I saw Lord William Russell--you know him, don't you? I forgot
to tell you that you will have a _great Officer of State_ at the head
of your Household, who is called the _Groom of the Stole_; it is a
position in the Court for prestige only, without any business; he will
be a _Peer_....
[Footnote 77: Mr T. Phillips, the Mayor of Newport,
Monmouthshire, had behaved with great coolness and courage
during the riot on 4th November. He read the Riot Act among
showers of bullets before ordering the troops to fire.]
[Footnote 78: Frost, Williams, and others, afterwards
convicted at Monmouth.]
[Footnote 79: The Queen had begun the word "confidence" but
struck it out and substituted "love."]
(_Continued 10th December_).--I am very impatient at your bust not
having yet arrived; the Duchess of Sutherland wrote to me she had seen
it in Rome, and it was so beautiful!...
Who has made the little copy which you sent me, and who the original?
Feodore writes to me so much about you....
We expect Queen Adelaide to-day, who will stay here until the day
after to-morrow. Melbourne has asked me to enquire of you whether
you know Lord Grosvenor? He is the eldest son of the Marquis
of Westminster, and does not belong to any party; he is not in
Parliament. He is very pleasant, speaks German very well, and has been
a good deal on the Continent. If he accepts, he might be one of
your _gentlemen_. _Lord Melbourne is particularly desirous of doing
everything that is most agreeable to you._ I have a request to make,
too, viz., that you will appoint poor Clark your _physician_; you need
not consult him unless you wish it. It is only an honorary title, and
would make him very happy....
[Pageheading: THE PROTESTANT QUESTION]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _9th December 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--... I was quite miserable at not hearing from Albert
for _ten_ days; such a long silence is quite insupportable for any
one in my position towards Albert, and I was overjoyed on receiving
yesterday the _most_ dear, _most_ affectionate, delightful long letter
from him. He writes so beautifully, and so simply and unaffectedly.
I hope, dear Uncle, you received my last letter (quite a packet) for
Albert, on the 5th or 6th? I send you another now. I fear I am very
indiscreet about these letters, but I have so much to tell him, and
it will only last two months, so that I trust you will forgive it, and
forward them.
I mentioned the topics you spoke of to me in your letter to our good
friend Lord Melbourne, and as he is writing, I leave it to him to
explain to you, as he writes so much better than I do. He will explain
to you _why_ the word Protestant was left out in the Declaration,
which I think was quite right; for do what one will, nothing will
please these Tories.... I shall be delighted to see Stockmar here, for
so many reasons, and the quicker he comes the better....
I have a favour to ask you, dear Uncle, which I hope you will grant,
unless it should be _indiscreet_ in me. It is, if you have still got
Aunt Charlotte's bust at Claremont, if you would give it to me to put
in the Gallery here, where you would see it _oftener_ than you do at
Claremont, and I am so anxious there should be one of her _here_.
We have _vile_ weather, cold and foggy; such fogs we have here! I move
to London for good on the 9th or 10th of January. Ever your devoted
Niece,
VICTORIA R.
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _11th December 1839._
... I like Lady A---- very much too, only she is a little _strict and
particular_, and too severe towards others, which is not right; for
I think one ought always to be indulgent towards other people, _as I
always think, if we had not been well brought up and well taken care
of, we might also have gone astray_. That is always my feeling. Yet
it is always right to show that one does not like to see what is
obviously wrong; but it is very dangerous to be _too_ severe, and I am
certain that as a rule such people always greatly regret that in their
youth they have not been as careful as they ought to have been. I have
explained this so badly, and written it so badly, that I fear you will
hardly be able to make it out.
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _15th December 1839._
... Again no letter from you!... Lord Melbourne left here this
morning, but comes back to-morrow evening, after the wedding of his
sister. I hope he will remain here, because I am fond of him, and
because he has a share in all my happiness, and is the only man with
whom I can speak without _gêne_ on everything, which I cannot do with
my Court.
"Islay"[80] is still plagued by him every evening--a thing which he
much enjoys--and constantly begs for the spectacles. I forgot to tell
you that Karl has given me a pretty little Rowley, who likewise lives
in the house. The multitude of dogs is really terrible!
The ceremony of Declaration must have been very fine and touching, and
I am most happy that the good people of Coburg are so pleased with our
marriage....
[Footnote 80: A pet dog of the Queen's.]
_Dec. 17th._--I have spoken to Lord M. about your wish, and he
says--what is my own opinion too--_that your people ought to be as
much as possible out of Parliament when they have hardly any politics,
which is the best thing--as your Household must not form a contrast
to mine--and therefore you could not have violent Tories amongst your
people; but you may be quite certain that both I and Lord Melbourne
will take the greatest care to select respectable and distinguished
people, and people of good character. Perhaps Lord Grosvenor may be
your Groom of the Stole, though he is no Peer; but his rank and family
are so high, that he would do very well; and, besides, not belonging
to any party, and being out of Parliament, is such a great advantage._
The design of our Arms without _supporters_ is unfortunately not
finished, but I send you a little drawing which I have made of it
myself. The report of Sir William Woods I beg you will send back, but
the Arms you can keep.
I add a little pin as a small Christmas present. I hope you will
sometimes wear it.
[Pageheading: THE PROTESTANT QUESTION]
_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._
LAEKEN, _14th December 1839._
MY DEAREST VICTORIA,--I lived in the hope of receiving some letters
for you from Albert, but nothing is arrived to-day. Your dear long
letter gave me great pleasure. Before I answer some parts of it, I
will say a few words on Lord Melbourne's letter. Perhaps you will be
so good to tell him that it gratified me much. It is the letter of an
honest and an amiable statesman, practical and straightforward. In
the omission of the word "Protestant" he was probably right, and it is
equally probable that they would have abused him--maybe even more if
he had put it in. There is only this to say, however: the Ernestine
branch of the Saxon family has been, there is no doubt, the real cause
of the establishment of Protestantism in Germany, and consequently in
great parts of Northern Europe. This same line became a martyr to that
cause, and was deprived of almost all its possessions in consequence
of it.
Recently there have been two cases of Catholic marriages, but the main
branch has remained, and is, in fact, very sincerely Protestant. Both
Ernest and Albert are much attached to it, and when deviations took
place they were connected more with new branches transplanted out of
the parent soil than with what more properly must be considered as the
reigning family.
The Peerage question may remain as it is, but it will not be denied
that the great object must be to make Albert as English as possible,
and that nothing will render this more difficult than a foreign
name....
I shall be most happy to see poor Charlotte's bust in the Gallery at
Windsor, and it is kind of you to have had the thought. She was a high
and noble-minded creature, and her affection and kindness for me
very great. She had placed the most unbounded confidence in me; our
principle had been never to let a single day pass over any little
subject of irritation. The only subjects of that sort we had were
about the family, particularly the Regent, and then the old Queen
Charlotte. Now I must conclude with my best love. Ever, my dearest
Victoria, your devoted Uncle,
LEOPOLD R.
[Pageheading: A MISSING LETTER]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _17th December 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--Many thanks for your two most kind letters. I
suppose I _may_ send for Aunt Charlotte's bust, for which I am most
grateful--and say I have your authority to do so? You are very kind to
think about my stupid health; I don't think I _ever_, at least not
for _very_ long, have _walked_ so regularly as I have done this last
month--out in fog, and mist, and wind, and cold. But I cannot be
otherwise than agitated; getting _no_ letter makes me ill, and
_getting_ them excites me....
I have much to write, and therefore cannot make this a long letter,
but _one_ thing more I must mention. The very day of the Declaration
in Council, on the 23rd ult., I sent off a letter to Albert, by Van
de Weyer, saying it was to be forwarded _sans délai_ to Coburg; now,
Albert _never_ has received that letter, which was a long one, and
thanks me for two, of the 26th and 29th. This vexes me much, and
I can't help thinking the letter is lying either at Wiesbaden or
Brussels. Would you graciously enquire, for I should not like it to be
lost.
Forgive my writing such a letter so full of _myself_. Ever, dearest
Uncle, your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Pageheading: THE PRINCE'S SECRETARY]
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE.
_The 22nd._--I have but little time to write. The Duchess of
Sutherland is here, who admires you much, and is very sympathetic....
_The 23rd._--Your letter of the 15th just received. I will now answer
at once. _It is, as you rightly suppose, my greatest, my most anxious
wish to do everything most agreeable to you, but I must differ with
you respecting Mr Anson.... What I said about Anson giving you advice,
means, that if you like to ask him, he can and will be of the greatest
use to you, as he is a very well-informed person. He will leave Lord
Melbourne as soon as he is appointed about you. With regard to your
last objection, that it would make you a party man if you took the
Secretary of the Prime Minister as your Treasurer, I do not agree in
it; for, though I am very anxious you should not appear to belong to a
Party, still it is necessary that your Household should not form a too
strong contrast to mine, else they will say, "Oh, we know the Prince
says he belongs to no party, but we are sure he is a Tory!" Therefore
it is also necessary that it should appear that you went with me in
having some of your people who are staunch Whigs; but Anson is not
in Parliament, and never was, and therefore he is not a violent
politician. Do not think because I urge this, Lord M. prefers it; on
the contrary, he never urged it, and I only do it as I know it is for
your own good._ You will pardon this long story. _It will also not do
to wait till you come to appoint all your people. I am distressed
to tell you what I fear you do not like_, but it is necessary, my
dearest, most excellent Albert. Once more I tell you that you can
perfectly rely on me in these matters....
[Pageheading: THE TORIES]
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _26th December 1839._
... The Historical Sketch has interested us greatly; Lord Melbourne
read it through immediately. I greatly thank you also for the
genealogical tree you sent me.
Now, my dearest, to be about what is _not so pleasant or amusing.
I mean, now for business. I always think it safer to write that in
English, as I can explain myself better, and I hope you can read my
English, as I try to be very legible. I am much grieved that you feel
disappointed about my wish respecting your gentlemen, but very glad
that you consent to it, and that you feel confidence in my choice.
Respecting the Treasurer, my dearest Albert, I have already written
at great length in my last letter, so I will not say much more about
it to-day, but I will just observe that, tho' I fully understand
(indeed no one could feel more for you in the very trying position you
will be placed in than I do) your feelings, it is absolutely necessary
that an Englishman should be at the head of your affairs; therefore
(tho' I will not force Mr. Anson on you) I ask you if it is not better
to take a man in whom I have confidence, and whom I know well enough
to trust perfectly, than a man who is quite a stranger, and whom I
know nothing of?_
I am very glad that your father knows Lord Grosvenor. As to the
Tories, I am still in a rage;[81] they abuse and grumble incessantly
in the most incredible manner.
I will tell good Lord Melbourne that you are very grateful. That you
will write to him is very nice of you, and makes me glad. I shall
always feel very happy if you, my dearest Albert, will be very
friendly to this good and just man; and I am convinced that, when you
will know him more intimately, you will be as fond of him as I am.
No one is more abused by bad people than Lord M.--_and nobody is so
forgiving_....
I have just learned that my two uncles, the Dukes of Sussex and
Cambridge (_to whom Lord M. had written_) _very willingly consent to
let you take precedence of them; it was, of course, necessary to ask
them about it...._
[Footnote 81: _Lit._ raging (_wuthend_). The phrase was a
favourite one of King Leopold's, from whom the Queen had
adopted it.]
_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _27th December 1839._
MY DEAR UNCLE,--Just two words (though you don't deserve _half a one_,
as your silence is unpardonable) to say I have just heard from Albert,
who, I am glad to say, consents to _my_ choosing his people; so _one
essential_ point is gained, and we have only the Treasurer to carry
now. I am sure, as you are so anxious Albert should be thoroughly
English, you will see how necessary it is that an Englishman should be
at the head of his financial affairs.
I see that you wrote to Lord Melbourne that you were glad to hear I
took more walking exercise, but I must tell you that ever since I
have done so I sleep badly, and feel unwell! If the weather would only
allow me to ride I should be quite well. Ever your devoted Niece,
VICTORIA R.
[Pageheading: THE PRINCE AND LORD MELBOURNE]
_Queen Victoria to the Prince Albert._
WINDSOR CASTLE, _30th December 1839._
... I here enclose Lord Melbourne's letter. I have read it, and _I
think that nothing could be better; it is just what I told you, and it
is the honest and impartial advice of a very clever, very honest,
and very impartial man, whose_ greatest wish is to secure your and
my happiness. Follow this advice and you may be sure of success. Lord
Melbourne told me that he had it written on purpose in a clear hand,
by one of his secretaries, as he thought and feared you would not be
able to read his own hand, which I daresay would have been the case,
as he writes a very peculiar hand; he has therefore only signed it.
I saw to-day the Duke of Cambridge, who has shown me your letter, with
which he is quite delighted--and, indeed, it is a very nice one. The
Duke told Lord Melbourne he had always greatly desired our marriage,
and never thought of George; but that _I_ do not believe.
I must conclude, my dearest, beloved Albert. Be careful as to your
valuable health, and be assured that no one loves you as much as your
faithful VICTORIA.
INTRODUCTORY NOTE
TO CHAPTER IX
The marriage of the Queen and Prince Albert took place amid great
splendour and general rejoicings on the 10th of February; the general
satisfaction being unaffected by the tactless conduct of Ministers
who, by not acting in conjunction with the Opposition, had been
defeated on the question of the amount of the Prince's annuity, the
House of Commons reducing it from £50,000 to £30,000.
At home, the Privilege Question aroused great interest, a point which
for months convulsed the Courts and Parliament being whether a report,
ordered by the House to be printed, of a Committee appointed by the
House, was protected by privilege against being the subject of an
action for libel. The Courts having decided that it was not, an
Act was passed to alter the rule for the future, but meanwhile the
sheriffs had been imprisoned by the House for executing the judgment
in the usual course.
The Ministry tottered on, getting a majority of nine only on their
China policy, and twenty-one on a direct vote of confidence. The
Bill for the union of the two Canadas was, however, passed without
difficulty.
An attempt by a barman named Oxford to assassinate the Queen on
Constitution Hill fortunately failed, and Oxford was committed, after
trial, to a lunatic asylum. In July, the prospect of an heir being
born to the throne led to the passing of a Regency Bill, naming Prince
Albert Regent, should the Queen die leaving issue; the Duke of Sussex
alone entered a formal protest against it.
Afghanistan continued unsettled, and Lord Auckland's policy seemed
hardly justified by the unpopularity at Cabul of Shah Sooja; Dost
Mahommed still made efforts to regain his position, but he ultimately
surrendered to Sir William Macnaghten, the British Envoy at Cabul.
The disputes with China continued, and hostilities broke out; British
ships proceeded to China, and Chusan was captured.
In France an attempt against the Government was made by Louis
Napoleon, who landed at Boulogne in a British steamer, was captured,
and sentenced to life imprisonment. More serious difficulties between
this country and France arose out of Eastern affairs. The Four Powers,
England, Russia, Austria, and Prussia, had addressed an ultimatum to
Mehemet, requiring him to evacuate North Syria, France declining to
take part in the conference on the subject. An Anglo-Austrian army
undertook to eject him, St Jean d'Acre was stormed, and France thrust
into a position of unwilling isolation. Thiers, who had been made
Minister, expected that Mehemet would be able to retain his conquests,
and for a time it looked as though France would interfere to protect
him. Ultimately, in spite of some ostentatious preparations in France,
peaceful counsels prevailed, and Thiers found it advisable to retire
in favour of Guizot.
In Holland, William I. (then sixty-seven) abdicated in favour of his
son, the Prince of Orange (William II.). The need of a younger
and firmer ruler was the reason officially stated in the Royal
Proclamation. The real reasons were probably the King's attachment
to the Roman Catholic Countess d'Oultremont, whom he now privately
married, and the humiliation he felt at the unfavourable termination
of the Belgian dispute.