rd Melbourne) and to themselves and their own feelings and
position, they expressed what they really think. The Duke was right in
saying that in general, in affairs of this nature, it is best not to
begin with conditions; but this matter of the Household is so personal
to yourself, that it was best to give an intimation of your feelings
upon it in the first instance. Lord Melbourne has little doubt that if
they could have acted from themselves, they would have acceded to your
Majesty's wish at once; but your Majesty must recollect that they have
others to satisfy, and must not attribute entirely to them anything
that is harsh and unreasonable. Lord Melbourne advises your Majesty
to urge this question of the Household strongly as a matter due to
yourself and your own wishes; but if Sir Robert is unable to concede
it, it will not do to refuse and to put off the negotiation upon it.
Lord Melbourne would strongly advise your Majesty to do everything to
facilitate the formation of the Government. Everything is to be
done and to be endured rather than run the risk of getting into the
situation in which they are in France, of no party being able to form
a Government and conduct the affairs of the country.[34]

The Dissolution of Parliament is a matter of still more importance,
and if this should be again pressed upon your Majesty, Lord Melbourne
would advise your Majesty to reserve your opinion, not to give a
promise that you will dissolve, nor to say positively that you
will not. You may say that you do not think it right to fetter the
Prerogative of the Crown by previous engagements, that a dissolution
of Parliament is to be decided according to the circumstances at the
time, that you mean to give full confidence to the Government that
shall be formed, and to do everything in your power to support them,
and that you will consider whether Parliament shall be dissolved, when
you are advised to dissolve it, and have before you the reasons for
such a measure.

Lord Melbourne earnestly entreats your Majesty not to suffer yourself
to be affected by any faultiness of manner which you may observe.
Depend upon it, there is no personal hostility to Lord Melbourne nor
any bitter feelings against him. Sir Robert is the most cautious and
reserved of mankind. Nobody seems to Lord Melbourne to know him, but
he is not therefore deceitful or dishonest. Many a very false man has
a very open sincere manner, and _vice versa_....

Lord Melbou