Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians.
THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE
Osborne, 21st July 1856.
My dearest Uncle,— ... We had a delightful little séjour at Aldershot—much favoured by fine weather. The first day, Wednesday, the wind was too high for me to ride, but the second (Thursday) we had one of the prettiest and most interesting field days I ever remember. I rode about everywhere and enjoyed it so much. On Thursday and Friday morning we visited the Camp. The new Troops from the Crimea which we saw were the 34th, 41st, and 49th, particularly fine Regiments; the 93rd Highlanders, the 2nd Rifle Battalion, and three Companies of splendid Sappers and Miners, all very fine; and the Scots Greys and Enniskillen Dragoons. The Prussians36 were émerveillés at the looks of our Troops on returning from the Crimea! We came here on the 18th, and have really hot weather.
George has been appointed Commander-in-Chief. There was really no one who could have been put over him; though in some respects it may be a weakness for the Crown, it is a great strength for the Army....
I fear I must end here for to-day. Ever your devoted Niece,
Victoria R.
Footnote 36: The Prince and Princess of Prussia were on a visit to the Queen and Prince.
Viscount Palmerston to Queen Victoria.
Piccadilly, 24th July 1856.