Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, having occasion to make a
trip to Europe, wrote to the queen:
MY OWN DARLING: We got over our journey thus far rapidly and
well, but the tide was so unmannerly as to be an hour later
than the time calculated, so that I cannot sail before
three. I have been an hour here, and regret the lost time
which I might have spent with you. Poor child! you will,
while I write, be getting ready for luncheon, and will find
the place vacant where I sat yesterday. In your heart,
however, I hope my place will not be vacant.
I at least have you on board with me in spirit. Try to
occupy yourself as much as possible. You are even now half a
day nearer to seeing me again; by the time you get this
letter it will be a whole day; thirteen more and I am again
within your arms. To-morrow Seymour will bring you further
news of me. Your most devoted