I have all the honours that can be given, and I am, politically speaking, very solidly established, more so than most Sovereigns in Europe.

The only political longing I still have is for the Orient, where I perhaps shall once end my life, unlike the sun, rising in the West and setting in the East.

I never press my services on you, nor my councils, though I may say with some truth that from the extraordinary fate which the higher Powers had ordained for me, my experience, both political and of private life, is great.

I am _always ready_ to be useful to you _when and where_ it may be, and I repeat it, _all I want in return is some little sincere affection from you_....
And now I conclude for to-day, not without expressing again my satisfaction and pleasure at having seen you yesterday morning with your dear honest face, looking so dear in your morning attire.

Our time was spent very satisfactorily, and only the weather crossed our wishes, and to that one can submit when everything else is delightful.
Once more, God bless you! Ever, my dearest Victoria, your devoted Uncle, LEOPOLD R.
[Pageheading: VISIT OF PRINCE ALBERT] _Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians._ WINDSOR CASTLE, _25th September 1839._ MY DEAR UNCLE,--You will, I think, laugh when you get this letter, and will think I only mean to employ you in _stopping_ my relations at Brussels, but I think you will approve of my wish.