| Collection | Victorian Papers, Main Series |
| Description | Queen Victoria comments on Lord John Russell's memorandum, which contains two questions. First, how far do the interests of England require interference in Portuguese affairs for the restoration of peace and the preservation of the Portuguese Throne, and how far is England bound, by the existing treaties, to interfere? Ancient treaties which deal with foreign invasions only are not applicable in this case. The Quadruple Treaty would apply on the appearance of Don Miguel in Portugal, and in that case an understanding should be reached with Spain. Russell makes no specific proposal here. Second, what wrongs may the Queen of Portugal, the Portuguese Ministers and the rebels have committed to bring about the present state of affairs? Queen Victoria's belief is that the answer can only be discovered by a minute, impartial and anxious scrutiny. She indignantly rejects the notion of leaving this to Mr. [Henry] Southern [Chargé d'Affaires], whom she distrusts, and takes exception to Russell's suggestion of tyranny and cruelty on the part of the Portuguese Government. Naturally when there is Civil War there are cruelties and miseries to be deplored , hence the Queen's anxiety to see the struggle brought to an end. |