‘Strathfieldsaye.
Ap. 26, 1835.
‘My dear Sir,—When Queen Elizabeth gave me that beautiful bag on Friday night, I was not aware that it contained a Letter Patent which I prize highly; and for which I ought to have returned my grateful acknowledgment at the time it was delivered.
‘I beg you to present my thanks; and to express my hopes that her Majesty continued to enjoy the pleasures of the evening; and that she has not been fatigued by them.
‘Ever, my dear Sir,
‘Your most faithful humble servant,
(Signed) ‘Wellington.
‘H. St. George Tucker, Esq., etc.’
The delight and enthusiasm amongst the young people, aroused by this letter, may be imagined. It seems to have come later into the possession of Charlotte; and when she went to India it was presented by her to her sister Laura,—the envelope which contained it having in Charlotte’s handwriting the following inscription:—
‘What I consider one of my most valuable possessions, and therefore send to my beloved Laura, to whom it will recall past days.’