d also an account of its financial position,
including a balance-sheet of its income and expenditure. I shall
have then an opportunity of bringing the question fully under the
consideration of Her Majesty.--I have the honour to be, Madam, your
obed. humble servt., C. B. PHIPPS.

This letter was the most valuable contribution yet received, and the
suggestion of a balance-sheet the most practical thing done on behalf of
the scheme.

There was immediate and anxious effort to comply with the suggestions
made, and on the 1st of February the details, dignified by the title of
"a Report" with such balance-sheet as could be produced, was forwarded
to Her Majesty. The reply of Colonel Phipps was again prompt, and as
Bessie justly considered it, "very gracious."

TO MISS GILBERT.

WINDSOR CASTLE, _4th February 1856_.

Colonel Phipps presents his compliments to Miss Gilbert. He has
laid the papers relative to her scheme for the employment of the
blind before Her Majesty the Queen, and has received Her Majesty's
commands to forward to her the accompanying cheque for L50 towards
the funds of this establishment, which promises to be so useful to
persons labouring under privation which particularly entitles them
to compassion.

Should the plan prove successful, as Her Majesty hopes it may, and
have the appearance of becoming permanent, Colonel Phipps is
commanded to request that a further report may be made through him
to Her Majesty.

The kindly hand thus held out by the Queen to her blind subjects gave a
great and valuable impetus to the work. The Duchess of Gloucester sent a
donation through Colonel Liddell. Subscribers and donors came forward in
sufficient numbers to show that if blind men wanted work, both work and
wages would be provided.

CHAPTER IX

REMOVING STUMBLING-BLOCKS

"Give unto me, made lowly wise,
The spirit of self-sacrifice."--WORDSWORTH.

Throughout 1856 Bessie was mainly occupied in writing letters to all and
sundry. She wanted money, and more even than money, she wanted custom.
From the very first she saw that customers were of greater importance to
her than subscribers, for it was customers who could ensure the
stability and permanence of her scheme. If the blind were to be
employed, there must be a sale for the articles produced; and