d _all_ in the highest good-humour. It
is a fine ceremony, and a scene I shall _ever_ remember, and with
pleasure. I likewise venture to add that people thought I did my part
very well.

The amiable Duc de Nemours dined with me on Friday, comes to _my_ ball
to-night, and dines again with me on Wednesday. Pray tell dearest Aunt
Louise that I thank her much for her very kind letter, and will avail
myself of her kindness and _not_ write to her this mail.

Feodore is writing in my room, well and happy. Uncle Ernest still very
lame, and Charles well. There's an account of the family. Ever and
ever your most devoted Niece,

VICTORIA R.

_Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._

_8th July 1838._

Lord Melbourne presents his humble duty to your Majesty. As your
Majesty does not ride, the question is between driving down the line
or not going down it at all,[23] and it appears to Lord Melbourne
that the first is the best, namely, to drive down; but if your Majesty
feels a strong repugnance, there is no more to be said.

Lord Melbourne thinks it safer and more prudent that your Majesty
should not ride; but still it might have been done, and if Lord
Melbourne had thought that your Majesty wished it much, he would not
have dissuaded it.

[Footnote 23: Referring to the Hyde Park review on the next day.]

[Pageheading: LOYAL DEMONSTRATIONS]

_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._

NEUILLY, _12th July 1838._

MY DEAREST VICTORIA,--I am very grateful for your kind letter; it
is extremely _meritorious_, amidst such fatigues and festivities and
occupations of every kind, to find a moment to write. I expressed
already the _great satisfaction_ with which I read and heard all
the accounts of the Coronation, and I believe that there _never_ was
anything like it. The only one which in point of loyal demonstration
may approach it is that of George III., but I think it fell short of
yours.

I am happy to see that it has _increased_, if possible, your affection
and attachment to your country, and this is in every respect a great
blessing. You will remember that I have never varied on that subject,
the great thing is to be the _National_ Sovereign of your _own_
country, and to love its very faults. This strengthens the _mutual
attachment_, and that can _never be too strong_....

Believe me, ever, my dearest Victoria, your very devoted Uncle,

LEOPOLD R.

The whole of the family here offer their best _homm