was instructed to take any action he thought fit to prevent Russian
aggression on Turkish territory. On the 30th of November the Turkish
Fleet in Sinope Harbour was destroyed by the Russian squadron, this
occurrence provoking profound indignation in England, though it had
been urged both within the Cabinet and outside that the despatch of
the combined Western Fleets through the Dardanelles was more likely to
appear as a defiance to Russia than a support to Turkey.

Earlier in the year Lord Aberdeen had desired to retire, but enquiry
soon disclosed that Lord John Russell no longer had the influence
necessary to form a Ministry, and in the face of danger Lord Aberdeen
remained at his post. But there were sharp dissensions in the Cabinet,
especially between Lord Palmerston, representing the anti-Russian
party, on the one hand, and on the other Lord Aberdeen, who distrusted
the Turks, and Mr Gladstone, who disavowed any obligation to uphold
the integrity of the Ottoman Empire. In December, Lord Palmerston
resigned office, the ostensible reason being his opposition to the
contemplated Reform Bill of the Government. The real cause was his
opinion that apathy was being shown by his colleagues in reference to
the Eastern Question; however, after arrangements had been made for
replacing him, he was, at his own desire, re-admitted to the Cabinet.

CHAPTER XXII

1853

_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._

WINDSOR CASTLE, _4th January 1853._

MY DEAREST UNCLE,--... Our new Government will really, I think,
command a large support, and, I trust, be of duration, which is a
great object. Their only difficulty will be the Budget.

The coldness and tardiness of the Northern Powers in recognising _our_
new _bon Frere_ annoys him very much, and produces a bad effect in
France. I don't think it is wise. Unnecessary irritation may produce
_real_ mischief. To squabble about _how_ to call him, after having
praised and supported him after the _Coup d'Etat_, seems to me very
_kleinlich_ and inconsistent, and I think our conduct throughout has
been much more dignified....

I have read with pleasure the loyal addresses of the Chambers, and
with peculiar satisfaction the allusion to Leopold's visit to England.
Let him and Philippe come here often and regularly, and let them study
this country and her laws _a fond_--it will do them more good than
all the studying and reading in the world. They all three express most
warmly