The Life and Times of Queen Victoria; vol. 1 of 4Wilson, Robert
History
The Life and Times of Queen Victoria; vol. 1 of 4
Wilson, Robert
Great Britain -- History -- Victoria, 1837-1901; Victoria, Queen of Great Britain, 1819-1901
The Memorandum of 1844 enabled the Russian Emperor, in 1854, to
allege a common understanding with England, in defence of his designs
against Turkey. The Earl of Aberdeen was probably the moving spirit in
the matter, so far as Great Britain was concerned; and it is one of many
proofs that that Minister had far too kindly a regard for the interests
of the Northern Power.
Nicholas quitted London on the 9th of June, after producing a very good
impression on the ladies and gentlemen of the Court by his magnificent
presents of jewels to the former, and, as regarded the latter, by the
gift of a very valuable cup, to be annually run for at Ascot, which he
had visited twice during his brief stay. Whether he produced an equally
good impression on the mass of the English people, is a very doubtful
matter. It was said at the time that he was hissed on one occasion, when
driving out with the Queen; and it is probable that such was the fact.
He was disliked as a despot; his conduct towards Poland was viewed with
detestation; and that he had designs on India, was suspected and
believed by many. But his reception at the English Court was
sufficiently warm to create a feeling of irritation on the part of the
French, who inferred--not altogether without reason--that some secret
arrangement had been made to the prejudice of their interests. It was
feared for a time that this sentiment would have the effect of setting
aside a visit to England which had been contemplated by Louis Philippe
since the visit of the Queen and Prince Albert to that monarch in the
previous year. Alluding to the fear that this compliment might not be
paid, in consequence of what had happened with the Emperor, her Majesty,
in writing to King Leopold, says:--“I hope that you will persuade the
King (Louis Philippe) to come all the same in September. Our motives and
politics are, _not_ to be exclusive, but to be on good terms with
all--and why should we not? We make no secret of it.” The King of Saxony
left England on the 19th of June, and the Court now returned to its
usual and somewhat quiet routine.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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