old prig." Said "Liberty is never safe," that even in this country
an unworthy sovereign might endanger her even now. John sent down
to say he wished to see them. I took them to him for a few
minutes--happily he was clear in his mind--and said to Mr.
Gladstone, "I'm sorry you are not in the Ministry," and kissed her
affectionately, and was so cordial to both that they were greatly
touched.

PEMBROKE LODGE, _May_ 9, 1878

Great day. Nonconformist deputation presented address to John on
the fiftieth anniversary of Repeal of the Corporation and Test
Acts. Alas! that he could not see them. All cordial and friendly,
and some with strikingly good countenances. Edmond Fitzmaurice
happened to call, stayed, and spoke admirably. Lord Spencer also
called just before they came to congratulate him, but I stupidly
did not think of asking him to stay. Those of the deputation who
spoke did so extremely well. It was a proud and a sad day. We had
hoped some time ago that he might perhaps see the deputation for a
moment in his room, but he was too ill for that to be possible.

Lord Russell died on May 28, 1878, at Pembroke Lodge.

_Queen Victoria to Lady Russell_

BALMORAL, _May_ 30, 1878

DEAR LADY RUSSELL,--It was only yesterday afternoon I learnt
through the papers that your dear husband had left this world of
sorrows and trials peacefully, and full of years, the night before,
or I would have telegraphed or written sooner! You will believe
that I truly regret an old friend of forty years' standing, and
whose personal kindness in trying and anxious times I shall
_ever_ remember. "Lord John," as I knew him best, was one of
my first and most distinguished Ministers, and his departure
recalls many eventful times. To you, dear Lady Russell, who were
ever one of the most devoted of wives, this must be a terrible
blow, though you must have for some time been prepared for it. But
one is such trials and sorrows of late years that I most truly
sympathize with you. Your dear and devoted daughter will, I know,
be the greatest possible comfort to you, and I trust that your
grandsons will grow up to be all that you could wish.

Believe me always, yours affectionately,

V.R.I.

_Mr. John Bright to Lady Russell_

_June_ 1, 1878

DEAR LADY RUSSELL,--... What I particularly ob