tific principles. Every known improvement in machinery,
etc., is introduced, with results of as near perfection as possible in
crops. The Prince looks a genuine farmer, as he tramps through the
fields in true Norfolk garb of tweed and gaiters; and it does not
require much attention to find from his conversation that he quite
understands what he is talking about; so it behoves one to rub up his
weak points in this direction.

In the stables all are disposed to linger; every one of (I think) sixty
stalls being inhabited by first-rate steeds, many of them good racers.
The prettiest sight of all is the Princess's stable--a smaller one
adjoining; this is tiled white and green, with stalls ornamented in
silver. Here are some charming ponies driven by Her Royal Highness, and
her favourite mare Vera. On this mare, accompanied by her children on
their mounts, the Princess may often be met in the lanes around
Sandringham, occasionally also driving in a little pony carriage, and in
both cases almost unattended.

[Illustration: THE BALL-ROOM.

_From a Photo. by Bedford Lemere._]

The kennels come next in order: they contain dogs of every breed from
all parts of the land. The younger members of the family especially have
many pets--cats, dogs, and birds; indeed, one of the first things you
notice on your arrival is a parrot in the entrance saloon, that
invariably greets you with calling for "three cheers for the Queen!"

It is now nearly luncheon time (1.30), and here you all meet again; some
of the ladies perhaps having been honoured the first part of the day by
spending some time with the Princess. Generally speaking, but not
always, their Royal Highnesses join the party for lunch; but in any
case, after that meal, forces are united, and the company entire start
off, sometimes on foot, commencing with gardens, sometimes in carriages
for a more distant inspection. To-day it is fine, and so we commence
with emerging on to the west terrace, and into the western gardens.

The terraces are very handsome, and many of the rooms open on to them
from French windows or conservatories. First you will notice a Chinese
joss-house or temple, made of costly metal, guarded on either side by
two huge granite lions from Japan, all of them the gifts to the Prince
of Admiral Keppel.

The gardens are tastefully and artistically laid out, with such a
wildness, yet with such a wealth of shrubs and pines, aided by
artificial rockwork, a cave, and