afraid I shall not see you before Wednesday--when
you are to do us so great a kindness--but I must write a line to
tell you how exceedingly delighted we both are with all we have
seen at Windsor. The charm of the princess, so visible at a
distance, increases with the increase of nearness; the Queen's
tone is delightful. All seems good, delighted, and happy in the
family. As regards the Queen's physical strength, it must be
satisfactory. What is more fatiguing than interviews? Last night,
however, I saw her at half-past seven, after a long course of them
during the day. She was quite fresh.

_May 10._--I can answer you with a very good conscience. The affair
of Friday night [his speech on Italy] was on my part entirely
drawn forth by the speech of Disraeli and the wish of Lord
Palmerston. It is D.'s practice, in contravention of the usage of
the House, which allows the minister to wind up, to lie by until
Lord Palmerston has spoken, and then fire in upon him. So on this
occasion I was a willing instrument; but my wife, who was within
ten minutes' drive, knew nothing.

We dined at Marlborough House last night. The charm certainly does
not wear off with renewed opportunity. Clarendon, who saw her for
the first time, _fully_ felt it. Do you know, I believe they are
actually disposed to dine with us some day. Do you think you can
_then_ be tempted? We asked the Bishop of Brechin to meet you on
Thursday. Another bishop has volunteered: the Bishop of Montreal,
who is just going off to America. You will not be frightened. Both
are rather notable men. The other guests engaged are Cobden,
Thackeray, and Mr. Evarts, the new U.S. coadjutor to Adams.

_July 10._--I knew too well the meaning of your non-appearance, and
because I knew it, was sorry for your indisposition as well as for
your absence. We had the De Greys, Granville, Sir C. Eastlake,
Fechter(136) and others, with the Comte de Paris, who is as simple
as ever, but greatly developed and come on. He talked much of
America. I hope we may come to-morrow, not later than by the 5.5
train, to which I feel a kind of grateful attachment for the
advantage and pleasure it has so often procured me. We are glad to
have a hope of you next week. All our people are charmed with Mr.
Fechter.--Yours affectionately.

_July 29._--I am greatly