It would give the Queen much pleasure to stand sponsor to Sir Robert Peel's little grandson, and perhaps Sir Robert would communicate this to Lady Villiers.
Footnote 7: Dr Thomas Turton (1780-1864), formerly Dean of Peterborough.
Footnote 8: John Lonsdale (1788-1867) was Bishop of Lichfield from 1843 till his death.
Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians.
PURCHASE OF OSBORNE
Windsor Castle, 25th March 1845.
... I copied what you wrote me about Peel9 in a letter I wrote him, which I am sure will please him much, and a Minister in these days does require a little encouragement, for the abuse and difficulties they have to contend with are dreadful. Peel works so hard and has so much to do, that sometimes he says he does not know how he is to get through it all!
You will, I am sure, be pleased to hear that we have succeeded in purchasing Osborne in the Isle of Wight,10 and if we can manage it, we shall probably run down there before we return to Town, for three nights. It sounds so snug and nice to have a place of one's own, quiet and retired, and free from all Woods and Forests, and other charming Departments who really are the plague of one's life.
Now, dearest Uncle, adieu. Ever your truly devoted Niece,
Victoria R.