lbourne is very sorry not
to come down to Windsor, but he really thinks that his absence from
London at this moment might be prejudicial.

Lord Melbourne will do his utmost to have the Speech worded in the
most calm manner, and so as in no respect to offend or irritate any
feelings. Some mention of the good conduct and gallantry of the Navy
there must be--to omit it would be injurious and disheartening--but as
to any expressions complimentary to France or expressive of regret
at our separation from it, it will be hardly possible to introduce
anything of that nature.[1] It is quite unusual in our Speeches from
the Throne to express either approbation or disapprobation of the
conduct of foreign nations and foreign Governments. It is surprising
how very seldom it has been done, and the wisdom and prudence of
abstaining from it is very manifest. It would be giving an opinion
upon that which does not belong to us. Anything which would have the
effect of producing satisfaction in France must be of an apologetic
character, which there is no ground for, and for which neither the
Government nor the country is prepared.

The best course will be a total reserve upon this head, certainly
abstaining from anything that can be in the slightest degree
offensive.

[Footnote 1: France was not mentioned, though the Convention
with the other Powers, and the naval operations in conjunction
with Austria, were referred to.]

_Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._

_22nd January 1841._

Lord Melbourne presents his humble duty to your Majesty.

Lord Melbourne will be most happy to wait upon your Majesty on
Saturday and Sunday.

Lord Melbourne is very sorry that your Majesty is compelled to come to
London contrary to your inclinations; but Lord Melbourne much rejoices
that your Majesty expresses that reluctance, as there is no surer
sign of complete happiness and contentment in the married life than a
desire to remain quietly in the country, and there is nothing on the
earth Lord Melbourne desires more anxiously than the assurance of your
Majesty's happiness.

[Pageheading: THE QUEEN'S INFANCY]

_The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria._

BRUSSELS, _22nd January 1841._

MY DEAREST VICTORIA,--I thank you very sincerely for your kind letter
of the 19th, which I hasten to answer. I should not have bored you by
my presence, but the act of the christening is, in my eyes, a sort of
closing of the first cy