I do not say these things with the most distant idea of bringing about any change, but only because in the high and very responsible position in which Providence has placed you, it is good to tell you the truth, as you ought to have weight and influence on the affairs of Europe; and England, not being in the possibility of making territorial acquisition, has a real and permanent interest in the proper maintenance of a balance of political power in Europe.

Now I will leave you to enjoy the beginning of Spring, which a mild rain seems to push on prodigiously.

Believe me ever, my dear Victoria, your very attached Uncle, LEOPOLD R.
[Pageheading: JAMAICA] _Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._ _26th April 1839._ Lord Melbourne presents his humble duty to your Majesty, and begs to inform your Majesty that the result of the Cabinet has been a decision to stand by the Bill as we have introduced it, and not to accede to Sir Robert Peel's proposal.

The Bill is for suspending the functions of the Legislative Assembly of Jamaica, and governing that island for five years by a Governor and Council.[28] If Sir Robert Peel should persist in his proposal, and a majority of the House of Commons should concur with him, it will be such a mark of want of confidence as it will be impossible for your Majesty's Government to submit to.
[Footnote 28: _See_ Introductory Note, _ante_, p.141.

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