On the day after I spoke to your Royal Highness I gave instructions for enquiries to be made respecting the two properties in the Isle of Wight.76 It is necessary to make such enquiries through some very confidential channel, as a suspicion of the object of them would probably greatly enhance the price.
The party on whom I could entirely rely was out of town, but will return to-morrow, and will immediately find out what he can respecting the properties.
The result shall be made known to the Queen and your Royal Highness without delay.
Will your Royal Highness have the goodness to mention this to Her Majesty?...
I have the honour to be, Sir, with sincere respect, your Royal Highness's most faithful and humble Servant,
Robert Peel.
Footnote 75: Referring to the visit of the Duc de Bordeaux.
Footnote 76: The Queen and the Prince were at this time making enquiries about a suitable residence in the Isle of Wight. The purchase of Osborne resulted.
The Prince Albert to Sir Robert Peel.
THE QUEEN'S DECISION