The girlhood of Queen Victoria, vol. 1 (of 2)

by Queen of Great Britain Victoria

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO CHAPTER VI

This was her annus mirabilis, her wonder-year. The earlier months passed much as usual. On 24th May she was eighteen years old. The entry in her Journal shows some presentiment of what was to come. In less than a month she had stepped from out of the precincts of that quiet, ill-furnished palace in Kensington Gardens into the full glare of the Throne. The 20th June was her most wonderful day, but although keenly alive to its significance and glory, she never lost her self-control. The hidden forces which even her Journals failed to reveal, appear so to have moulded her character that she was enabled to appreciate and yet resist the glamours of this supreme moment. There is not a trace of doubt or misgiving. She was conscious of a mysterious duty imposed upon her by Divine Providence, and although she obviously felt her inexperience, she never for a moment doubted her fitness for her task. King William died at Windsor soon after two in the morning, and three hours later the Archbishop and Lord Conyngham were at Kensington Palace. The Princess received them in a dressing-gown hastily thrown over her nightdress, her feet in slippers, and her fair hair loose about her head. Four hours later she received for the first time Lord Melbourne, the Prime Minister, who was destined until the day of her marriage to exercise a potent influence over her thoughts and actions. Her caution in the selection of confidantes, her wariness in granting her approval, and her care to safeguard the regal tradition, are clearly apparent from the day of her accession. Although she accepted advice, she never appeared to yield. There is nothing in these Journals that displays the inner thoughts of the Queen, in a light differing from that in which her conduct appeared both to her Ministers and to her courtiers. Then, as in after-years, she fulfilled the hope publicly expressed by Lord John Russell, that she would prove to be an Elizabeth without her tyranny and an Anne without her weakness.

It must be remembered that from the day of her accession the Crowns of Great Britain and Hanover were divided. Her uncle, Ernest, Duke of Cumberland, succeeded to the Throne of Hanover. The fear that he might succeed to the Throne of Great Britain had always haunted the minds of the people, and added to the feeling of gladness with which they welcomed the young Queen. On the second day of her reign the name Alexandrina was dropped for ever, and she was thenceforth known, as she desired to be, by the name of Victoria.

CHAPTER VI
1837

Sunday, 8th January.— ... The service was performed by the Dean, who gave us likewise a sermon. The text was from the 1st Chapter of Isaiah,—verse:—“Wash you, make you clean.” At 12 dear Lehzen and I went out and came home at 10 minutes p. 1. It is today a week that we took leave of our poor good friends the Gipsies, and I am quite sorry when I pass the spot so long enlivened by their little camp, and behold it empty and deserted, and with almost no trace to be seen of their ever having been there. They had been there more than a month, for they encamped there about 5 days after we arrived here and have been there ever since until last Wednesday or Thursday. To my feeling, the chief ornament of the Portsmouth Road is gone since their departure. But this is their life; they are happy and grateful and we have done them some good. The place and spot may be forgotten, but the Gipsy family Cooper will never be obliterated from my memory!...

Tuesday, 10th January.— ... At a ¼ p. 3 came M. Van de Weyer, who arrived in London last night from Lisbon. He gave us most interesting and most valuable information about Portugal; praised our dearest Ferdinand to the skies, said he showed cleverness, firmness, and character which no other young man of his age hardly ever showed; said the poor Queen was totally indifferent to whatever happened, but was extremely obedient to Ferdinand who had great power over her. He told us much to distress us, but said that the present ministers were ready to do anything that was right. He is a most clever, clear-sighted, sensible little man, Van de Weyer himself. He looks much careworn and fatigued, and no wonder at it....

Tuesday, 7th February.—Read in Bajazet. Read to Lehzen out of Polyeucte and finished it; it is certainly very beautiful and full of most beautiful and highminded feelings, but the end is, to my feelings, rather unnatural. Lehzen dictated to me some passages from Polyeucte....

Thursday, 9th February.— ... Read to dear Lehzen out of the newspapers Lord John Russell’s very able and judicious speech on bringing in the Irish Corporation bill; and out of the Irish History.... Read in Bajazet and wrote my journal. Lehzen dictated French to me. Played and sang. Read in Raumer’s Königinnen. Read in Clive’s life[255] while my hair was doing. At 6 we dined. Read in Bajazet. Sang, and Mamma also. Stayed up till 10. Read in School Shakespeare while my hair was undoing.

Saturday, 8th April.—At 10 came the Dean till 11. Read with him in the N.T. and in Boswell’s Life of Johnson. At ½ p. 11 I went down and sat to Mr. Lane[256] till a ¼ to 1. He showed me 4 very beautiful coloured drawings by Chalon, 3 portraits,—Mrs. Ashley, very like; Miss Fanny Wyndham as Contino in Scaramuccia, ridiculously like; and Bellini as Figaro; the 4th is a very beautiful head and hands of Juliet asleep after she has taken the draught. Mr. Lane likewise showed me a very beautiful miniature of Lady Blessington[257] painted by Chalon about 15 years ago; and a beautiful drawing of C. Kemble as Falstaff, done by himself. He is a great friend of Kemble’s and admires him beyond everything. He is also very intimate with Mr. Macready, and says he is such an excellent father and husband. Charles Mathews, he says, speaks Italian as well as he does French.... At 20 minutes p. 7 we went with dear Lehzen, Lady Theresa, Charles and Lord Ilchester &c. to the Opera. It was my dear I Puritani, and they were singing the opening Chorus when we came in. Grisi, Rubini, Lablache, and Tamburini made their first appearance this season, and were all enthusiastically cheered on their appearance, in particular my worthy Master and Rubini. There is not a word of truth in what was said about Grisi, for I never saw anything look more lovely that she did, and she sang deliciously, as did also Rubini whose voice seems to get if possible finer each year. It is useless to add that the singing of these 4 incomparable and unequalled artistes was, as always, perfection! with the exception perhaps of Lablache’s being a little hoarse at times; he did not look well and was not in his usual spirits I thought. The Quartet “Ah! te o cara,” the Polacca, “Suoni la tromba,” and “Ella è tremante” were all loudly encored. After the Opera was over the 4 cantanti were called out and loudly cheered....

Tuesday, 11th April.—Heard that poor Lady De L’Isle,[258] the King’s eldest daughter, had expired at 10 o’clock the night before. On the death of old Mrs. Strode last February, the King made Lady De L’Isle housekeeper of Kensington Palace; and she arrived here about 2 or 3 days after we came from Claremont, was confined with a daughter about a month ago, and was going on very well, when she was taken so alarmingly ill, I think on Sunday. It is very awful and very dreadful for her 4 poor children.

After 9 we breakfasted. At a little before 10 came the Dean till 12 minutes to 11. Read with him in the N.T. and in Hume. At 11 came my good Lablache and stayed till 6 minutes to 12. He was as good-humoured, kind, ready, and gentlemanlike as ever; there never is any difference in his manners or ways, may he be ill, well, tired or not tired, he is always in the same ready good-humour. He is perhaps a little greyer, mais voilà tout. He was in splendid voice and sang beautifully. It was quite a delight for me to hear his fine and unique voice again and to sing with him; it is such a support to my voice and he accompanies so agreeably. I sang first with him the favourite duo of mine: “Voglio dire,” from L’Elisire d’Amore; then “Una furtiva lagrima,” a pretty little Aria from the same opera, which I repeated and which Catone used to sing so nicely, as also “Quanto è bella quanto è cara” from L’Elisir, which I also sung. After this Lablache sang with Mamma and me “Se il fratel stringere” from Belisario, which he had never seen or even heard before!...

Thursday, 20th April.—I got up at 8. Read in the Exposition while my hair was doing. After 9 we breakfasted. Played and sang; practised for Lablache. Drew. At 20 minutes to 2 we went to the Drawing Room with dear Lehzen, Lady Mary Stopford,[259] Sir George Anson &c. The poor Queen not being well, the King held the Drawing-room, and (strange to say) Princess Augusta represented her. There were several young ladies presented, amongst whom were Lady Wilhelmina Stanhope (daughter to the Earl and Countess Stanhope),[260] a beautiful girl; Lady Fanny Cowper[261] (daughter to the Earl and Countess Cowper), also pretty; Lady Mary Grimston,[262] Miss Louisa Percy,[263] Miss Wynn (niece to the Duchess of Northumberland), Victoire Conroy, &c. The poor Duchess of Northumberland was unable to attend me, having a bad cold. We came home at 20 minutes p. 3....

Friday, 19th May.—Got up at 8. Wrote the brouillon of a French letter to dearest Aunt Louise while my hair was doing. After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At 10 Mary,[264] Lehzen, I and the children went out walking and came home at 10 minutes to 11. Wrote my letter to dearest Aunt Louise. At ½ p. 11 came M. Guazzaroni till 12. Received a letter from the King by Lord Conyngham....

Read in W. Scott’s Life. Received an address from the Mayor and City of Lincoln, which was presented by Colonel Sibthorp[265] and Mr. Edward Lytton Bulwer,[266] the two Members. I was attended by my dearest Lehzen, and Mamma by Lady Flora. Played and sung &c. Wrote my journal. Drew. Felt very miserable and agitated. Did not go down to dinner, but dined in my own room at 8 o’clock. Stayed up till 10.

Saturday, 20th May.—Got up after 8. After 9 we breakfasted. The dear children were in the room and played very merrily. Wrote a letter to the King, which Mamma had previously written for me. At 3 minutes past 11 came my buon Maestro Lablache, looking pale and coughing, and complaining he was still unwell and feared he would remain so till the weather became warmer....

Lablache
from recollection.
P.V. del:—
Kensington
Palace Aug. 1836.

LUIGI LABLACHE.
From a sketch by Princess Victoria.

Wednesday, 24th May.—Today is my 18th birthday! How old! and yet how far am I from being what I should be. I shall from this day take the firm resolution to study with renewed assiduity, to keep my attention always well fixed on whatever I am about, and to strive to become every day less trifling and more fit for what, if Heaven wills it, I’m some day to be!... At ½ p. 3 we drove out with Mary and dear Lehzen and came home at 5. The demonstrations of loyalty and affection from all the people were highly gratifying. The parks and streets were thronged and everything looked like a Gala day. Numbers of people put down their names and amongst others good old Lablache inscribed his.... At ½ p. 10 we went to the ball at St. James’s with the Duchess of Northumberland, dear Lehzen, Lady Flora and Lady Conroy &c. The King though much better was unable of course to be there, and the Queen neither, so that, strange to say, Princess Augusta made the honneurs! I danced first with Lord Fitzalan,[267] 2ndly with Prince Nicholas Esterhazy,[268] who is a very amiable, agreeable, gentlemanly young man; 3rdly with the Marquis of Granby[269]; 4thly with the Marquis of Douro[270] who is very odd and amusing; and 5thly and lastly with the Earl of Sandwich[271] who is an agreeable young man. I wished to dance with Count Waldstein who is such an amiable man, but he replied that he could not dance quadrilles, and as in my station I unfortunately cannot valse and gallop, I could not dance with him. The beauties there were (in my opinion) the Duchess of Sutherland, Lady Frances (or Fanny) Cowper, who is very pleasing, natural and clever-looking.... The Courtyard and the streets were crammed when we went to the Ball, and the anxiety of the people to see poor stupid me was very great, and I must say I am quite touched by it, and feel proud which I always have done of my country and of the English Nation. I forgot to say that before we went to dinner we saw the dear children. I gave my beloved Lehzen a small brooch of my hair.

Friday, 26th May.— ... Wrote a letter to dear Uncle Leopold, to dearest Albert from whom I received a most kind and affectionate letter for my birthday yesterday, and to Ernest Hohenlohe. Finished my brouillon of Aunt’s letter and began to write it. At 2 we went with dear Lehzen and I received two more Addresses, one from Kidderminster presented (not read) by Lord Foley[272]; the other from the Borough of Louth by ——. First of all the Sheriffs of the City came and wished to know when we should be pleased to receive the Address from the Mayor and Corporation of London....

Monday, 29th May.—At ½ p. 1 we went to the Drawing-Room with the Duchess of Northumberland, dear Lehzen, Lady Mary Stopford, Lady Catherine Jenkinson, Lady Flora Hastings, Lady Cust, Sir George Anson, &c. The King and Queen being both unwell, though better, the Drawing-room was held by the Princess Augusta!! It was an immensely full one—2000 people, and we did not get home till a ¼ p. 5. The handsomest people there were: the Duchess of Sutherland, Lady Fanny Cowper, the Marchioness of Abercorn,[273] Lady Seymour,[274] Mrs. Blackwood, &c., &c. Countess Emanuel Zichy (Miss Strachan that was) and who was also at our Concert, was presented. Count Zichy is very good-looking in uniform, but not in plain clothes. Count Waldstein looks remarkably well in his pretty Hungarian uniform....

Tuesday, 30th May.—At ½ p. 2 we went into the saloon with Mary and Princess Sophia, I being attended by the Duchess of Northumberland and dear Lehzen, and Mamma by all her ladies and gentlemen. The Lord Mayor, Aldermen and Commons of the City of London presented Mamma 1st with an Address to which she read an answer, and then me with a very kind one. I only answered the following words, from my own accord: “I am very thankful for your kindness and my Mother has expressed all my feelings.” The Addresses were read by the Recorder of London (Mr. Law). There were all together 150 who came up with the Lord Mayor....

Sunday, 4th June.—Read in the Exposition while my hair was doing. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. Wrote a letter to dear Feodore. Drew. At 11 we went to Chapel with dear Lehzen. The whole service was performed by Mr. Jackson. Wrote my journal. Wrote. Drew. At a little after 3 came my good and honest friend, Stockmar,[275] and stayed with me till ½ p. 3. He had a very pleasant and useful conversation with me; he is one of those few people who tell plain honest truth, don’t flatter, give wholesome necessary advice, and strive to do good and smooth all dissensions. He is Uncle Leopold’s greatest and most confidential attached and disinterested friend, and I hope he is the same to me, at least, I feel so towards him; Lehzen being of course the greatest friend I have....

Thursday, 15th June.—After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At 10 Mary, dear Lehzen and I drove out and came home at 10 minutes to 11. Wrote!! The news of the King are so very bad that all my lessons save the Dean’s are put off, including Lablache’s, Mrs. Anderson’s, Guazzaroni’s, &c., &c., and we see nobody. I regret rather my singing-lesson, though it is only for a short period, but duty and proper feeling go before all pleasures.—10 minutes to 1,—I just hear that the Doctors think my poor Uncle the King cannot last more than 48 hours! Poor man! he was always kind to me, and he meant it well I know; I am grateful for it, and shall ever remember his kindness with gratitude. He was odd, very odd and singular, but his intentions were often ill interpreted!—Wrote my journal. At about a ¼ p. 2 came Lord Liverpool and I had a highly important conversation with him—alone....

Friday, 16th June.— ... Began and read to Lehzen out of De Lolme, On the English Constitution. I forgot to mention that Lehzen finished reading to me on the 16th of May the delightful letters of Mme. de Sévigné, and began on the following day Les Mémoires de l’Impératrice Joséphine, par Mdlle. Le Normand, en 2 tomes, which is written in a very affected and flourished style, but is amusing. The news of the poor King were a shade better. At a little after 5 we drove out with Mary and Lehzen and came home at a ¼ to 7. At ½ p. 7 we dined. Saw the children before dinner. Sang un poco. Stayed up till ½ p. 10.

Saturday, 17th June.—Read in the Exposition while my hair was doing. After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At 10 Mary, dear Lehzen, the dear children and I drove out and came home at 11. I like Mary very much; she is a very honest, warm-hearted, good soul, and very susceptible of kindness shown to her; she is extremely discreet and retiring too. The news of the King are worse again today. Wrote my journal &c. Arranged some prints &c. At a little after 2 came Baron Stockmar and stayed till near 3. The news of the poor King were very bad! Drew. At a ¼ to 5 we drove out with Mary, Lehzen and dear little Edward, who was very funny and amusing. We came home at 6....

Sunday, 18th June.—Got up at 8. After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At 10 we went down to prayers with dear Lehzen. The Dean read and preached. The text was from the 2nd Chapter of St. John’s epistle, 5th verse. Drew and painted. Mary came up with Edward and stayed some time. Edward also remained alone with me for a ¼ of an hour. Painted. Saw Stockmar, who brought me a letter from Uncle Leopold!!—Painted. The poor King, they say, can live but a few hours more!—Wrote my journal....

Monday, 19th June.—Got up at a ¼ p. 8. Read in Les Veillées du Château while my hair was doing. After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At a ¼ p. 10 Mary, Lehzen, the children and I drove out and came home at a little after 11. Read in Les Veillées du Château. Wrote my journal. Saw Dr. Clark. Saw Ernest Hohenlohe who brought me the news from Windsor that the poor King was so ill that he could hardly live through the day. He likewise brought me a very kind message from the poor Queen, and also one from the poor old King. After 7 we dined. Saw the children before dinner for a minute. Stayed up till a ¼ p. 10. Read in W. Scott’s life while my hair was undoing.

Tuesday, 20th June.—I was awoke at 6 o’clock by Mamma, who told me that the Archbishop of Canterbury[276] and Lord Conyngham[277] were here, and wished to see me. I got out of bed and went into my sitting-room (only in my dressing-gown), and alone, and saw them. Lord Conyngham (the Lord Chamberlain) then acquainted me that my poor Uncle, the King, was no more, and had expired at 12 minutes p. 2 this morning, and consequently that I am Queen. Lord Conyngham knelt down and kissed my hand, at the same time delivering to me the official announcement of the poor King’s demise. The Archbishop then told me that the Queen was desirous that he should come and tell me the details of the last moments of my poor, good Uncle; he said that he had directed his mind to religion, and had died in a perfectly happy, quiet state of mind, and was quite prepared for his death. He added that the King’s sufferings at the last were not very great but that there was a good deal of uneasiness. Lord Conyngham, whom I charged to express my feelings of condolence and sorrow to the poor Queen, returned directly to Windsor. I then went to my room and dressed.

Since it has pleased Providence to place me in this station, I shall do my utmost to fulfil my duty towards my country; I am very young and perhaps in many, though not in all things, inexperienced, but I am sure, that very few have more real good will and more real desire to do what is fit and right than I have.

Breakfasted, during which time good faithful Stockmar[278] came and talked to me. Wrote a letter to dear Uncle Leopold and a few words to dear good Feodore. Received a letter from Lord Melbourne[279] in which he said he would wait upon me at a little before 9. At 9 came Lord Melbourne, whom I saw in my room, and of course quite alone as I shall always do all my Ministers. He kissed my hand and I then acquainted him that it had long been my intention to retain him and the rest of the present Ministry at the head of affairs, and that it could not be in better hands than his. He then again kissed my hand. He then read to me the Declaration which I was to read to the Council, which he wrote himself and which is a very fine one. I then talked with him some little longer time after which he left me. He was in full dress. I like him very much and feel confidence in him. He is a very straightforward, honest, clever and good man. I then wrote a letter to the Queen. At about 11 Lord Melbourne came again to me and spoke to me upon various subjects. At about ½ p. 11 I went downstairs and held a Council in the red saloon. I went in of course quite alone, and remained seated the whole time. My two Uncles, the Dukes of Cumberland[280] and Sussex,[281] and Lord Melbourne conducted me. The declaration, the various forms, the swearing in of the Privy Councillors of which there were a great number present, and the reception of some of the Lords of Council, previous to the Council in an adjacent room (likewise alone) I subjoin here. I was not at all nervous and had the satisfaction of hearing that people were satisfied with what I had done and how I had done it. Receiving after this, Audiences of Lord Melbourne, Lord John Russell, Lord Albemarle (Master of the Horse), and the Archbishop of Canterbury, all in my room and alone. Saw Stockmar. Saw Clark, whom I named my Physician. Saw Mary. Wrote to Uncle Ernest. Saw Ernest Hohenlohe who brought me a kind and very feeling letter from the poor Queen. I feel very much for her, and really feel that the poor good King was always so kind personally to me, that I should be ungrateful were I not to recollect it and feel grieved at his death. The poor Queen is wonderfully composed now, I hear. Wrote my journal. Took my dinner upstairs alone. Went downstairs. Saw Stockmar. At about 20 minutes to 9 came Lord Melbourne and remained till near 10. I had a very important and a very comfortable conversation with him. Each time I see him I feel more confidence in him; I find him very kind in his manner too. Saw Stockmar. Went down and said good-night to Mamma &c. My dear Lehzen will always remain with me as my friend but will take no situation about me, and I think she is right.

Wednesday, 21st June.—Got up at 8. At 9 we all breakfasted. At ½ p. 9 I went to St. James’s in state. Mamma and Lady Mary Stopford were in my carriage, and Lord Albemarle, Col. Cavendish, Lady Flora Hastings, and Col. Harcourt in the others.... After the Proclamation Mamma and the ladies repaired to an adjoining room and left me in the Closet. I gave audiences to Lord Melbourne (a long one), the Earl Marshal (Duke of Norfolk), and Garter King at Arms (Sir John Woods), relative to the funeral of my poor Uncle the late King; to Lord Albemarle, Lord Hill, Lord Melbourne (again for some time), and the Lord President (Lord Lansdowne). I then held a Privy Council in the Throne Room. It was not fully attended and was not the third part so full as it had been on the preceding day. The Marquis of Anglesey,[282] the Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Spring Rice),[283] Lords Wharncliffe,[284] Ashburton,[285] and Wynford,[286] Sir Hussey Vivian,[287] and some Judges were sworn in as Privy Councillors and kissed hands. After the Council I gave audiences to Lord Melbourne, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and all the Bishops except one or two, the Lord Chancellor and all the Judges; Sir Hussey Vivian (Master General of the Ordnance), Lord John Russell, Lord Glenelg,[288] Mr. Poulett Thomson,[289] Lord Howick,[290] Lord Palmerston, and Lord Minto.[291] I then returned home at 1. I must say it was quite like a dream and a sad one, when I was seated in the Closet where but barely 5 weeks ago I beheld for the last time my poor Uncle. At 2 came Stockmar till after 3. Wrote to the Duchess of Gloucester and Princess Augusta.[292] Walked. Saw the Duke of Norfolk. Wrote my journal. At 7 we dined. At 10 minutes to 9 came Lord Melbourne and stayed with me till 10. I had an agreeable and important and satisfactory conversation with him. Stayed up till a ¼ p. 10. Lord Hill told me a curious coincidence which is that the 21st of June, the day on which I was proclaimed, is likewise the anniversary of the Battle of Vittoria!

Thursday, 22nd June.—Got up after 8. After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At a ¼ p. 10 I walked out with Mary, Lehzen, Charles and Edward, and came home at 20 minutes to 11. Wrote to the Duchess of Gloucester. Wrote my journal. At 12 came the Judge Advocate General (Mr. Cutlar Ferguson)[293] to submit various sentences of Court Martial to me. He is a very clever intelligent man and explained all the cases very clearly to me. I, of course, saw him alone....

Friday, 23rd June.—Got up at ½ p. 8. After 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. I do not mention the very frequent communications I have with Lord Melbourne, Lord John Russell,[294] &c., &c., &c., as also the other official letters I have to write and receive, for want of time and space. Saw good Stockmar, who remained in my room for some time. Saw the Marquis of Conyngham, then Lord Hill, who explained to me finally about the Court Martials, then Sir Henry Wheatley[295] and Col. Wood, who as Executors of the late King, brought me his Will. At ½ p. 12 arrived Lady Catherine[296] who remained in one of my sitting-rooms till now and still remains (4 o’clock) answering letters, &c., &c. Saw the Duke of Argyll (Lord Steward) at ½ p. 2. I wrote a letter to the Marchioness of Tavistock[297] while Stockmar was here, asking her to become one of my Ladies of the Bedchamber. Lay down. Wrote to the Marchioness of Lansdowne,[298] asking her to become my first Lady of the Bedchamber. At ½ p. 5 I drove out with Mary and Lehzen, and came home at ½ p. 6. After 7 we all dined. I had a great deal of business to do after dinner. Saw Stockmar. Received a very kind letter from Lady Lansdowne accepting the situation. After dinner came Princess Sophia. Stayed up till after 10.

Saturday, 24th June.—Got up after 8. At ½ p. 9 we all breakfasted. The children played in the room. Wrote a letter to the Duke of Sussex, and to good Späth. At 11 came Lord Melbourne and stayed till 12. He is a very honest, good and kind-hearted, as well as very clever man. He told me that Lady Tavistock had accepted the situation. And he read to me the answer which I was to give to the address from the House of Lords. He told me that the Duke of Argyll would bring the Address but would not read it; and consequently I was not to read mine. Wrote. At 12 came Lady Catherine Jenkinson and remained in my room till near 3. Saw Stockmar at a little after 12. Saw Sir Frederick Wetherall.[299] Saw Lord John Russell. Wrote.—I really have immensely to do; I receive so many communications from my Ministers but I like it very much....

Sunday, 25th June.—Got up at 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At 10 I went down to prayers with Mamma, Mary, Lehzen, and Charles. The service was read by the Dean who was much affected when he read the prayers in which my name is now mentioned in the place of my poor Uncle, the late King. He preached a very good and appropriate sermon; the text of which was from the 3rd chapter of the Epistle General of St. Peter, 13th and 14th verses.... At a few minutes p. 12 came the Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Spring Rice) and stayed some time. He is a very clever and good man.... At about 20 minutes p. 4 came Lord Melbourne till 20 minutes p. 5. He is a good, honest, kind-hearted and clever man, and I like to talk to him....

Monday, 26th June.—Got up at 8. Before 9 we breakfasted. At ½ p. 9 went with Mamma to Windsor. I was attended by Lady Tavistock and Colonel Cavendish,[300] and Mamma by Lady Flora Hastings. We arrived at the Castle, which looked very mournful and melancholy with the flag half mast high, at about a ¼ p. 11. We went instantly to the poor Queen’s apartments.[301] She received me most kindly but was at first much affected. She however soon regained her self-possession and was wonderfully calm and composed. She gave us many painfully interesting details of the illness and last moments of my poor Uncle the late King. He bore his dreadful sufferings with the most exemplary patience and always thanked Heaven when these sufferings were but slightly and momentarily alleviated. He was in the happiest state of mind possible and his death was worthy his high station. He felt so composed and seemed to find so much consolation in Religion. The Queen is really a most estimable and excellent person and she bears the prospect of the great change she must soon go through in leaving Windsor and changing her position in a most admirable, strong and high-minded manner. I do not think her looking ill and the widow’s cap and weeds rather become her. I saw Ernest Hohenlohe, Gustav and Prince Ernest of Hesse P.B. We left Windsor at ½ p. 12. It gave me a very painful feeling to think that the remains of my poor Uncle were in the Castle. Altogether the whole rather upset me. We came at ½ p. 2. I forgot to say that Lord Melbourne told me that the Duchess of Sutherland[302] has accepted the office of Mistress of the Robes, and the Countess of Charlemont[303] of one of my ladies of the Bedchamber. At ½ p. 2 came the Duchess of Sutherland, whom I am delighted to have as my Mistress of the Robes; she was looking so handsome and nice. At about 10 minutes to 4 came Lord Melbourne and stayed till ½ p. 4. I talked with him as usual on Political affairs, about my Household, and various other Confidential affairs....

H.M. Queen Adelaide
from a portrait by Sir W. Ross

Tuesday, 27th June.—Got up at ½ p. 8. At a ¼ to 10 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. Wrote my journal. At about 20 minutes p. 11 came Lord Melbourne and stayed till ½ p. 12. At a little after ½ p. 12 came Lord Palmerston and stayed till a little p. 1. He is a clever and agreeable man. Saw Lord John Russell and Lord Melbourne for a minute. At a few minutes p. 2 I went down into the saloon with Lady Lansdowne; Col. Cavendish, the Vice-Chamberlain (Lord Charles Fitzroy),[304] and the Comptroller of the Household (Mr. Byng)[305] were in waiting. Lord Melbourne then came in and announced that the Addresses from the House of Commons were ready to come in. They were read by Lord John Russell and I read an answer to both. Lord Melbourne stood on my left hand and Lady Lansdowne behind me. Most of the Privy Councillors of the House of Commons were present. After this Lord Palmerston brought in the Earl of Durham,[306] who is just returned from St. Petersburg. I conferred on him the Grand Cross of the Bath. I knighted him with the Sword of State which is so enormously heavy that Lord Melbourne was obliged to hold it for me, and I only inclined it. I then put the ribbon over his shoulder. After this the foreign Ambassadors and Ministers were severally introduced to me by Lord Palmerston. I then went upstairs and gave audiences to the Earl of Mulgrave[307] and to the Earl of Durham. The latter gave a long account of Russia. Did various things. Saw Stockmar. As I did not feel well I did not come down to dinner, but dined upstairs. I went down after dinner. Stayed up till 10. I wore the blue Ribbon and Star of the Garter in the afternoon....

Saturday, 1st July.—Got up after 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. Edward played in the room only, Ernest not being good. Wrote. I repeat what I said before that I have so many communications from the Ministers, and from me to them, and I get so many papers to sign every day, that I have always a very great deal to do; but for want of time and space I do not write these things down. I delight in this work. Saw Lord Melbourne. At about ½ p. 11 or a ¼ to 12 came Mr. Spring Rice. Saw Lord John Russell. Wrote &c. At 2 came Sir Henry Wheatley to kiss hands upon being appointed my Privy Purse. At a little after 2 I saw Stockmar for a minute. At 10 minutes p. 2 came Lord Palmerston and stayed till 6 minutes p. 3. We talked about Russia and Turkey a good deal &c. He is very agreeable, and clear in what he says. Saw Stockmar for some time afterwards. Wrote my journal. I forgot to mention that I received a letter from dearest Aunt Louise in the morning. The children played in my room for a little while. At ½ past 5 I drove out with Mamma and dear Lehzen and came home at 20 minutes to 7. At ½ p. 7 we dined. Stayed up till a ¼ p. 10.

Sunday, 2nd July.—Got up at ½ p. 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At 10 I went to prayers with Mamma, Mary, and dear Lehzen. The service was performed by the Dean who gave us also a very good sermon. The text was from the 6th chapter of St. Matthew, 9th and 10th verses. Wrote, signed, &c. Wrote to dear Feodore. Received a kind long letter from dear Uncle Leopold. At 10 minutes to 2 came Lord Melbourne till a few minutes p. 3. Talked with him about many important things. He is indeed a most truly honest, straightforward and noble-minded man and I esteem myself most fortunate to have such a man at the head of the Government; a man in whom I can safely place confidence. There are not many like him in this world of deceit! Mary and the children came up for a few minutes. At a little before 4 came Stockmar and stayed till a little before 5. He is a most honest, excellent, disinterested and straightforward man, and most exceedingly attached and devoted to me; he has been, and is, of the greatest use to me....

Saturday, 8th July.—Got up at a little after 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. Signed, &c. Sat to Mr. Lane for a few minutes. Wrote to the poor Queen from whom I received a very kind letter last night; &c., &c. Saw good Stockmar for some time. Saw Lord John Russell. At a few minutes p. 12 came my good and honest friend Lord Melbourne and stayed till 20 minutes p. 1. Talked over many important things. Saw Mr. Spring Rice.... I forgot to say that Lord Melbourne wrote me word yesterday evening that Lady Mulgrave[308] I was very desirous to become one of my Ladies of the Bedchamber, and I told Lord Melbourne this morning that I would make her one of my ladies. Wrote to Lady Lyttelton[309] to ask her to become one of my ladies of the Bedchamber (in a year), for she is still in widow’s weeds.... At a ¼ p. 7 I, Mamma, Mary and Lehzen dined, Charles having gone at 5 o’clock to Windsor to attend the funeral of my poor Uncle, the late King. It was very very sad to hear from ½ p. 8 till nearly 10 o’clock, those dreadful minute guns! Alas! my poor Uncle, he now reposes in quiet and peace! As Lord Melbourne said to me, the first morning when I became Queen, that the poor King “had his faults as we all have, but that he possessed many valuable qualities.” I have heard from all sides that he was really very fond of me, and I shall ever retain a grateful sense of his kindness to me and shall never forget him. Life is short and uncertain, and I am determined to employ my time well, so that when I am called away from this world my end may be a peaceful and a happy one!...

Tuesday, 11th July.—Got up at 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. The children played in the room. At a little after 10, sat to Mr. Lane for a few minutes. Saw Col. Cavendish. Wrote, &c., &c. At ½ p. 11. came Stockmar who brought me the unwelcome news of poor Lord Melbourne’s continued indisposition and total incapability of coming to see me to-day, which I regret for two reasons: first because I have many things to ask him, 2ndly because I like very much to talk to him, as he is so quiet in what he says....

Wednesday, 12th July.—Got up at 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. Did various things. At ½ p. 10 came Stockmar and stayed for some time. At ½ p. 11 came Lord Melbourne and stayed till ½ p. 12. He looked and said he was better, but not quite well. Dressed. At a little before 2 I went with Mamma and the Duchess of Sutherland (in my carriage), Charles and Mary and Lady Tavistock and Lord Albemarle (in the next carriage), and Lady Mary Stopford and Colonel Cavendish in another. I was in full dress and wore the Order of the Bath. I went in state with a large escort. I was received at the door by the Lord Chamberlain, the Lord Steward, &c., &c., and was by them conducted into the Closet, where some people kissed hands. I then went into the Throne Room, Lord Conyngham handing me in, and a Page of Honour (Master Ellice) bearing my train. I sat on the Throne. Mamma and Mary stood on the steps of the Throne on one side, and the Duchess of Sutherland and Lady Tavistock stood near me (behind). I then received the two Addresses (of which, as also of all the other things, I subjoin an account), and read Answers to both. I then returned to the Closet; and went into another room to put on the Mantle of the Bath[310] (of crimson satin lined with white silk); I then saw Lord Melbourne in the Closet for a few minutes. After this I went again into the Throne-room, and seated myself on the Throne. I then conferred the Order of the Bath (not sitting of course) upon Prince Esterhazy. After this I again went into the Closet. Mamma, Mary, Charles and Lady Mary Stopford then went home; it was 3 o’clock. I then took off my Mantle. Received two Deputations from the Sheriffs &c., to ask when I would receive two more Addresses from the City. My two Ladies attended me, but after this they went into another room, where they remained till I went. I then gave an Audience to Lord Lansdowne. After this I held a Privy Council. After the Council I gave audiences to the Earl of Yarborough[311] (who thanked me very much for having appointed his amiable daughter, Lady Charlotte Copley, one of my Bedchamber Women); to Lord Melbourne, Lord John Russell, Lord Mulgrave, and Lord Hill. I then left the Palace, the Duchess of Sutherland (who looked lovely, as she always does), and Lady Tavistock, going with me in my carriage, in the same way as I came, and got home at a ¼ to 5....

Thursday, 13th July.—Got up at 8. At ½ p. 9 we breakfasted. It was the last time that I slept in this poor old Palace,[312] as I go into Buckingham Palace today. Though I rejoice to go into B.P. for many reasons, it is not without feelings of regret that I shall bid adieu for ever (that is to say for ever as a dwelling), to this my birth-place, where I have been born and bred, and to which I am really attached! I have seen my dear sister married here, I have seen many of my dear relations here, I have had pleasant balls and delicious concerts here, my present rooms upstairs are really very pleasant, comfortable and pretty, and enfin I like this poor Palace. I have held my first Council here too! I have gone through painful and disagreeable scenes here, ’tis true, but still I am fond of the poor old Palace. Lord Melbourne told me yesterday that the Hon. Miss Dillon[313] (to whom I had offered it), has accepted the situation of Maid of Honour. I always saw Lord Melbourne and also Stockmar in my Private Sitting-room (the first of the three), but all the other Ministers &c. &c. I saw in the further room (the farthest of the 3). Did various things. Saw Stockmar for some time. The poor rooms look so sad and deserted, everything being taken away. Wrote my journal. At a little after 2 I went with Mamma and Lady Lansdowne (in my carriage), Lehzen, and Col. Cavendish (in the next) to Buckingham Palace. I am much pleased with my rooms.[314] They are high, pleasant and cheerful. Arranged things. At a little after 4 Lady Lansdowne brought Miss Pitt[315] and Miss Spring Rice[316] (the two Maids of Honour in Waiting, and who lodge here) to kiss hands. Miss Pitt is a very pretty, elegant, nice girl, and Miss Spring Rice is a nice, clever-looking girl. Saw Stockmar. Lady Lansdowne afterwards brought Miss Davys to kiss hands, who is a very nice girl (though not at all pretty). I then walked round the garden (which is large and very pretty) with Mamma. Dear Dashy was quite happy in it....

H.R.H. Princess Victoria
from a portrait by R. J. Lane 1829.