43
Prince Albert.” They all however concluded that I was a very great man, and I walked on as important looking as possible. On reaching Braemar Castle, I found an immense gathering of people, and a regiment of soldiers, all waiting the arrival of Her Majesty. I sauntered about, looking at the scenery, and when the word spread that Her Majesty had arrived, there was great excitement. I got into a good position for seeing the Royal procession. The carriage in which the Queen and Prince Albert were, halted for a short time where I stood. I took off my hat and cried, “Long live Queen Victoria,” at which she looked at me and smiled. I then cried, “Long live Prince Albert.” He was a long time in acknowledging me, but after a while he gave me a very dry nod. The Queen then gave me a very gracious bow, and smiled a second time. Prince Albert appeared very angry and jealous at seeing me there, and so much taken notice of, or, I think Her Majesty would have spoken to me. The carriage then moved off amid great cheering. I heard many of the onlookers remark that I was a far handsomer man than the Prince. The next time I saw Her Majesty was on the balcony of the castle, looking at the games, and the Highlanders dancing in the park. After the games Her Majesty and suite left for Balmoral, and on the carriage with the royal party again passing me, I gave Her Majesty a very polite bow, which she very sweetly returned.
