My most beloved Victoria,—I have been longing to write to you ever since we got the joyful tidings,57 but I would not do so before the nine days were at an end. Now that they are over, I hope as you are, thank God, so well, I may venture a few lines to express a part of my feelings, and to wish you joy on the happy birth of your dear little girl. I need not tell you the deep, deep share I took in this most happy event, and all I felt for you, for dear Albert, when I heard of it, and since we last met. You know my affection for you, and I will not trouble you with the repetition of what you know. All I will say is that I thanked God with all my heart, and as I have scarcely thanked Him for any other favour....
Footnote 57: The Princess Royal, afterwards the Empress Frederick of Germany, was born 21st November 1840.
Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians.
SETTLEMENT OF EASTERN QUESTION
15th December 1840.
My dearest Uncle,—Many thanks for your kind little letter of the 10th from Ardenne. I am very prosperous, walking about the house like myself again, and we go to Windsor on the 22nd or 23rd, which will quite set me up. I am very prudent and careful, you may rely upon it. Your little grand-niece is most flourishing; she gains daily in health, strength and, I may add, beauty; I think she will be very like her dearest father; she grows amazingly; I shall be proud to present her to you.
The dénouement of the Oriental affair is most fortunate, is it not?58
I see Stockmar often, who is very kind about me and the Princess Royal....
Albert sends his affectionate love, and pray believe me always, your devoted Niece,