Footnote 3: John William, formerly Lord Duncannon, 4th Earl, born 1781; Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland.
Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians.
JENNY LIND
Buckingham Palace, 12th June 1847.
My dearest Uncle,—We are here in terrible hot water, though I think we shall get out of it.4 But only think that the Radicals and Protectionists join to attack Government for our interference in Portugal! A change of Government on such a subject would be full of mischief for the future, independent of the great momentary inconvenience; but it would cripple all future Governments in their future conduct respecting Foreign Affairs, would create distrust abroad in our promises, and is totally contrary to England's ancient policy of upholding Portugal.
In short, it would be very bad. The old Duke will do every thing to set matters right.
To-night we are going to the Opera in state, and will hear and see Jenny Lind5 (who is perfection) in Norma, which is considered one of her best parts. Poor Grisi is quite going off, and after the pure angelic voice and extremely quiet, perfect acting of J. Lind, she seems quite passée. Poor thing! she is quite furious about it, and was excessively impertinent to J. Lind.
To-morrow we go to a ball at Stafford House, and on Thursday to one at Gloucester House. Ever your truly devoted Niece,
Victoria R.
Footnote 4: The Government were severely attacked by a coalition of Radicals and Protectionists for their intervention in Portugal. A hostile motion of Lord Stanley's in the House of Lords was opposed by the Duke of Wellington and defeated, while one of Mr Hume's in the House of Commons was talked out, Sir Robert Peel supporting the Ministry.