er, exist of the
King's devotion to the duties of his station. Every document submitted
for his consideration and signature, is executed and returned to
the proper office within twenty-four hours after he receives it, and
generally within twelve hours. If a letter be addressed to Sir Herbert
Taylor or to Sir Henry Wheatley, no matter how trifling may be its
subject, it is certain of receiving an immediate and polite answer,
the contents of which show that his Majesty must undoubtedly have been
consulted; and if the request be refused, regret is expressed, and a
satisfactory reason is usually assigned. Those only who are aware of the
masses of papers submitted to the King, or of the innumerable subjects
on which his pleasure is taken, can appreciate the promptness, courtesy,
and decision which he displays; whilst in giving audiences, the extent
of his information, and his business-like habits, excite equal surprise
and satisfaction. When it is remembered that the King is above
sixty-seven years of age, the labour which he undergoes seems
extraordinary; and the admirable manner in which he executes his duties,
is consequently entitled to still higher applause. His office is indeed
no sinecure; and it would be well for the country if every department of
the State, and every public officer imitated the example set them by the
Sovereign.
"Before concluding this subject, justice demands that the manner in
which Sir Herbert Taylor and Sir Henry Wheatley conduct the Royal
correspondence, should not pass unnoticed; for, doubtless, a share of
the praise which has been here expressed of their Master's decision and
promptness, is due to them, and more especially for the extreme courtesy
with which their letters are written."
We had before heard the fact of the King's extraordinary punctuality in
signing papers, with this addition, that when they are more than
ordinarily numerous, the Queen sits at the table with her Royal husband,
lays the papers before him, and when signed, removes and arranges them,
like a secretary.
_Learned "Ladies."_--Mr. Murphy used to relate the following story
of Foote's, the heroines of which were the ladies Cheere, Fielding, and
Hill, the last the widow of the celebrated Dr. Hill. He represented them
as playing at "I love my love with a letter;" Lady Cheere began, and
said, "I love my love with an N because he is a Night;" Lady Fielding
followed with "I love my love with a G, because he is a Gustis;
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