emonstrations previously made by the
Belgians; and it appears, moreover, that the Dutch force is inferior
in number to the Belgian force opposite to it; and that affords an
additional security against the chance of an invasion of Belgium by
the Dutch. It is, however, undeniable that when two armies are drawn
up in face of each other, separated by a small distance, and animated
by mutual hatred, the chances of collision become great and imminent.
But it is to be hoped in the present case that the communication made
by the Conference to the two parties on Thursday last may avert danger
of hostilities between the Dutch and Belgians.[10]

[Footnote 9: Minister at the Hague.]

[Footnote 10: _See_ next letter.]

[Pageheading: BELGIUM AND ENGLAND]

_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._

BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _7th February 1839._

MY DEAR UNCLE,--I am much grieved to learn that poor Philippe[11] has
given you such anxiety. My poor Aunt! it really is too much upon her
to have these cares added to her recent severe affliction. I hope to
God that I shall get news of Philippe's complete recovery to-morrow.

I regret to hear that your Government gives you so much trouble,
but trust that you will exert all your influence, as you have so
frequently done, to persuade your Ministers to be reasonable, and not
to resist the favourable offers made to the Government. _Everybody_
here is exceedingly anxious for the conclusion of these long pending
affairs, and hope that the answer from Belgium will soon arrive.[12]
You will forgive me, dear Uncle, if I express to you my earnest hope
that these expectations may not be disappointed, for I feel that
since the Dutch have so instantly accepted the proposition of the
Conference, Belgium would suffer in the eyes of this country were she
to delay, and, what I am still more fearful of, my beloved Uncle, you
might be blamed, and suffer for what your Government may do. You will,
I know, forgive this freedom, which is prompted by my great anxiety
for your _welfare_ and _happiness_ (which I know you are well aware
of), and for the preservation of the inestimable blessings of peace.
No one feels more for you than I do at this difficult moment, nor than
I have done throughout these trying and embarrassing affairs. That all
may be peaceably and amicably settled is my earnest prayer.

Everything went off well yesterday,[13] and we are again launched into
a political campaign, wh