Photo. by W. G. Kuijer, Amsterdam._]

Accomplishments are imparted as a matter of course, but very much
attention is given to formation of character, and many stories reached
me of the wise method displayed, and the already promising result,
giving much hope for a bright future. As most of my readers are aware,
the Queen Regent and our Duchess of Albany are sisters, and all who know
anything of the sweet-faced widow of our beloved Queen's youngest son
will at once comprehend much of the sister whom she so nearly resembles.

Perhaps you would like a description of the throne. The chair is
beautifully burnished, covered with ruby velvet, and edged with ruby and
gold fringe; the back is surmounted by a crown containing sapphires,
with lions in support; another crown and the letter W being wrought on
the velvet immediately underneath. In front of the chair is a footstool
to match. The canopy is curtained in ruby velvet, with lining of cream
silk--in token of the youth of its future occupant--with fringe, cord,
and tassels of gold. It is surmounted by crowns and ostrich plumes, on
the inner centre being worked the Royal Arms, with the motto "Je
Maintiendrai" standing out in bold relief. On either side the canopy may
be noted the floral wreaths containing the "Zuid Holland" and "Noord
Holland" respectively. The room--as are the major part of them--is
richly carpeted with hand-made "Deventers" of artistic design and
colour blend.

[Illustration: THE QUEEN'S SITTING-ROOM.
_From a Photo. by Gunn & Stewart, Richmond._]

Leaving here, I pass on to a room which is of much importance, namely,
the sitting-room of Her Majesty the Queen. In the lifetime of the late
King it was his habit to pass very much of his time here; thus, this was
really His Majesty's audience chamber. Here he would have his little
daughter of whom he was passionately fond--taking a great delight in
listening to her merry prattle, and her amusing remarks on whatever
attracted her attention. The windows of the room look out on to the Dam,
a large square, which is quite the busiest part of the city. The view
from these windows is a never-ending source of interest to the little
Princess, and here she is wont to station herself, the inhabitants
continually congregating and greeting her with hearty cheering.

The room has an artistic ceiling by Holsteyn, and on the walls are some
paintings rich in detail, and of much historic interest. One of Flinck's
largest wo