Louis, who has always been so devoted to you, was touched to tears, as I was, by your expressions of love to us and to our children.
Thank you also for all advice, which is so precious to me, and in following it I shall like to think that I am doing something that you told me.
How much I felt in parting from you I cannot say. Neither did I like to speak of it, for it was too much, and the harder things in life are better borne in silence, as none can bear them for one, and they must be fought out by one’s self.
Ernie and Irène send endless loves to you, to Uncle and Auntie. Sunny’s hand is better.
Tilla came to see me yesterday, and we both drove with her to the Memorial.[120]
* * * There is so much I would run on about, now the dear habit of intercourse together has once more become so natural to me. Writing is at best a poor remplaçant.
Once more from both of us warm and tender thanks for so much love and kindness! Love to Leopold and Beatrice; kind remembrances to all who surround you! From your grateful and devoted child,
Alice.
Buckingham Palace, December 21st.
* * * It is fine and warm and still. I hope it will be so early to-morrow when we cross over. I shall telegraph how the passage has been.