Her Majesty refused to modify her plans.

It was pointed out to her that the Tsar would certainly be offended, that the most serious consequences might follow; Lord Derby protested; Lord Salisbury, the Secretary of State for India, was much perturbed.

But the Faery was unconcerned; she had settled to go to Balmoral on the 18th, and on the 18th she would go.

At last Disraeli, exercising all his influence, induced her to agree to stay in London for two days more.

"My head is still on my shoulders," he told Lady Bradford.