she never is in general.

The Grand Duke came and sat with the Queen in her box, for at least
half an hour last night--and the Queen asked him if he knew exactly
what had happened, which he said he did not--and the Queen accordingly
gave him an account of what passed, and he was _shocked_ at Sir Robert
Peel's proposal, thought his resignation on that account absurd, and
was delighted at the continuance in office of my present Government.

The Queen supposes and fears that Lord Melbourne dines with the
Lansdownes to-morrow, but she wishes to know if Wednesday, Saturday,
and Sunday would suit him?

Lord Melbourne must not forget the List of our supporters in the
House of Commons, which the Queen is very anxious to have as soon as
possible. If Lord Melbourne can dine here to-morrow the Queen would be
glad, of course.

[Pageheading: LORD JOHN RUSSELL'S OPINION]

_Lord John Russell to Queen Victoria._

_13th May 1839._

Lord John Russell presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and has
the honour to report that he this day made his statement to the House,
in answer to Sir Robert Peel.

Sir Robert Peel made a skilful, and not unfair statement. He, however,
spoke only of his intention of changing some of the Ladies of the
Bedchamber. But he did not say that he had made this intention clear
to your Majesty; only that he had so arranged the matter with his
political friends. The popular impression is greatly in favour of the
course pursued by your Majesty.

_Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._

_14th May 1839._

Lord Melbourne presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and is most
sorry to hear that your Majesty does not feel well. It is very natural
that your Majesty does not. Lord Melbourne does not believe that there
was anything wanting in your Majesty's manner yesterday evening,[43]
but depend upon it, if there was, every allowance would be made for
the fatigue and anxiety which your Majesty has gone through, and for
the painful and embarrassing situation in which your Majesty is still
placed.

Lord Melbourne will wait upon your Majesty at two, and will have the
honour of conversing with your Majesty upon Peel's speech.

[Footnote 43: At the State Concert.]

[Pageheading: THE QUEEN'S VIEW]

_Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._

BUCKINGHAM PALACE, _14th May 1839._

MY DEAR UNCLE,--I begin to think you have forgotten me, and you will
think I have forgotten you, but