ge" that you do not, into the bargain, yourself join
in attacking it!! For your Majesty says expressly in your letter:
"The Emperor ought to thank God that my view of Russian policy, my
_fidelity_ to your Majesty, have prevented me from making him begin
the Turkish war on the other side of his own frontier. The enormous
advantage of this abstention is totally forgotten in France, and,
unfortunately, in England too!"

Dearest Sir and Brother, this language shows a contradiction in
your own mind, which fills me with the greatest anxiety for possible
consequences, an anxiety not diminished by your kindly adding: "Duty,
Conscience, and Tradition forbid you to draw the sword against Old
England."

I shall gladly with you bless the day on which the word of Peace can
be uttered. Your Majesty can, by vigorous co-operation, help to usher
in that day, just as you might have--in my conviction--contributed, by
vigorous co-operation to prevent the War altogether.

Whatever these troublous times may bring us, I harbour the firm
confidence that the warmth of our friendly relations cannot be
troubled by anything, and rejoice in the circumstance that the
personal relations of the two Sovereigns are, in this matter, so
entirely in harmony with the interests of the two nations.

Albert sends you his homage, and I remain, with most cordial
remembrance to the dear Queen, and with thanks for the kind wishes
expressed by both of you, ever your Majesty's faithful Sister and
Friend,

VICTORIA R.

[Footnote 35: The influence of Russia over the King had been
proved by the recall of Baron Bunsen, and the dismissal of
all those Ministers who had opposed the policy of the Czar in
Turkey.]

[Footnote 36: The Prince of Prussia had shown his
dissatisfaction with the King's policy by quitting Berlin.]

[Pageheading: THE WAR OFFICE]

_Minute of Interview by the Prince Albert._

BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _8th June 1854._

Lord Aberdeen had an Audience to-day before the Council, and
represented that what was intended was merely a division of the office
of Secretary of State, and not the creation of any new power, and must
be considered rather as a means of avoiding further changes.[37] Lord
Grey, in hearing of this intention, called it in a letter "the worst
arrangement of all," as unfavourable to his further views; the Duke
of Newcastle would fill the office, and would have to prepare the
changes, inherent in the a