the reformed religion as by law established, securing at the
same time to all the full enjoyment of religious liberty. And I shall
steadily protect the rights, and promote to the utmost of my power the
happiness and welfare of all classes of my subjects." On this occasion
her majesty is described as displaying extraordinary self-possession:
the dignified composure and firmness of voice with which she pronounced
the above declaration were indeed a theme of admiration with those who
were present at the scene. Thus commenced the reign of Queen Victoria
over the United Kingdoms of Great Britain and Ireland.

One effect of the descent of the crown to a female was the separation
from it of Hanover, after an union which had lasted for nearly a century
and a quarter. This abscission of territory, however, was scarcely
noticed; it hardly called forth an observation in the newspapers, much
less an expression of regret--a proof of the little value attached in
this country to foreign dominion as a source of wealth or strength.

THE QUEEN'S MESSAGE TO BOTH HOUSES--EULOGIES OF THE LATE SOVEREIGN IN
BOTH HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT.

On the news of the death of the king both houses of parliament were
immediately summoned to meet. On that and the following day, however,
the administration of the oath of allegiance to the members, formed the
only business transacted. On Thursday, the 22nd, Lord Melbourne brought
the following message from the queen to the house of lords:--"Victoria
Regina. The queen entertains the fullest confidence that the house of
lords will participate in the deep affliction which her majesty feels
in the death of the late king, whose constant desire to promote the
interests, to maintain the liberties, and to improve the laws and
institutions of the country, must ensure for his name and memory the
dutiful and affectionate respect of all her majesty's subjects. The
present state of public business, and the period of the session, when
considered in connection with the law which imposes on her majesty the
duty of summoning a new parliament within a limited time, renders it
inexpedient in the judgment of her majesty, that any new measures should
be recommended for your adoption, with the exception of such as may
be requisite for carrying on the public service from the close of
the present session to the meeting of the new parliament." Upon this
occasion the leaders of all parties in parliament expressed their strong
s