| Collection | Victorian Papers, Main Series |
| Description | Russell comments on prospects for the havest. On the whole the crops inferior to last year, but prices will probably be moderate, and labourers have sufficiency of food. Russell proposed to visit Queen Victoria at Balmoral on the 18th. Prince Albert says the office of Poet Laureate ought to be filled, and Russell agrees. Names four authors of nearly equal merit - Henry Taylor, Sheridan Knowles, Professor Wilson, and Tennyson - all qualified for the post. Russell submits the name of Sir Denis Le Marchant, Baronet, to succeed John Ley, as Clerk of the House of Commons. The Speaker acquiesces, but wishes to have a voice in the appointment of two Junior Clerks. At present the patronage rests with the Principal Clerk. Paymaster of Civil Services in Ireland: Russell submits the name of Mr C. Grey, his private Secretary, and brother of Sir George Grey, to succeed Mr Kennedy. |