Page:The Letters Of Queen Victoria, vol. 2 (1908).djvu/459

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CHAPTER XXII 1853


Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians.

Windsor Castle, 4th January 1853.

My DEAREST UNCLE,—... Our new Government will really, I think, command a large support, and, I trust, be of duration, which is a great object. Their only difficulty will be the Budget.

The coldness and tardiness of the Northern Powers in recognising our new bon Frère annoys him very much, and produces a bad effect in France. I don’t think it is wise. Unnecessary irritation may produce real mischief. To squabble about how to call him, after having praised and supported him after the Coup d’Etat, seems to me very kleinlich and inconsistent, and I think our conduct throughout has been much more dignified. . . .

I have read with pleasure the loyal addresses of the Chambers, and with peculiar satisfaction the allusion to Leopold’s visit to England. Let him and Philippe come here often and regularly, and let them study this country and her laws à fond—it will do them more good than all the studying and reading in the world. They all three express most warmly to us their hopes of returning to us soon. Do let us have the hope of seeing you in February. It would be delightful! ... I must now wish you good-bye. Ever your devoted Niece, Vicroria R.


The Earl of Aberdeen to Queen Victoria.

London, 9th January 1853.

. . . Lord Aberdeen also begs to mention to your Majesty that he saw Dr Hawtrey yesterday and in signifying your Majesty’s gracious intentions[1] towards him, took an oppor-

  1. Dr E. C. Hawtrey was advanced to the Provostship of Eton upon the death of the Rev. Francis Hodgson. Dr C. O. Goodford succeeded to the Headmastership.

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