| Collection | Victorian Papers, Main Series |
| Description | The Queen has seen unofficial announcements of her visit to Ireland, which she regrets, as it is still so doubtful. She has heard that many of the Irish proprietors, including the Duke of Leinster, consider that it would not be prudent to go this summer. She therefore wishes that nothing should be done by the Government, in Britain or in Ireland, which would bind her to this visit, as it would never do to go there if it is doubtful how she might be received. Instead of having a good effect, it might have the contrary, and a good opportunity for the future might be lost. Queen Victoria forwards a letter from King Leopold [of the Belgians], which she wishes Lord John to show to Lord Lansdowne. Never was retribution for neglect of duty and for ingratitude more strongly seen than in the fate of the National Guard, the Archbishop of Paris [Denis-Auguste Affre], General [Marie Alphonse] Bédeau and Paris itself. |