The majority, too, cannot be depended upon, as many would vote against Odillon Barrot,[56] who would _not_ vote on other occasions with the Soult-Guizot Ministry.
Thirdly, the danger of war is also doubtless greatly exaggerated, as also the numbers of the French troops.

But Lord Palmerston must recollect how very warlike the French are, and that if once roused, they will not listen to the calm reasoning of those who wish for peace, or think of the great risk they run of _losing_ by war, but only of the glory and of revenging insult, as they call it.
Fourthly, the Queen sees the difficulty there exists at the present moment of making any specific offer to France, but she must at the same time repeat how _highly_ and _exceedingly_ important she considers it that some sort of conciliatory agreement should be come to with France, for she cannot believe that the appeals made to her by the King of the French are only exertions of skilful diplomacy.

The Queen's earnest and only wish is peace, and a maintenance of friendly relations with her allies, consistent with the honour and dignity of her country.

She does not think, however, that the last would be compromised by attempts to soften the irritation still existing in France, or by attempts to bring France back to her former position in the Oriental Question.
She earnestly hopes that Lord Palmerston will consider this, will reflect upon the importance of not driving France to extremities, and of conciliatory measures, without showing fear (for our successes on the coast of Syria show our power), or without yielding to threats.
France has been humbled, and France is in the wrong, but, therefore, it is easier than if we had failed, to do something to bring matters right again.

The Queen has thus frankly stated her own opinion, which she thought it right Lord Palmerston should know, and she is sure he will see it is only dictated by an earnest desire to see _all_ as much united as possible on this important subject.
[Footnote 55: A copy of this letter was sent at the same time to Lord Melbourne.] [Footnote 56: The unsuccessful candidate for the Presidency of the Chamber.] _Baron Stockmar to Viscount Melbourne._ _21st November 1840._ MY DEAR LORD,--I have just received Her Majesty's order to express to you her great desire to have from this day the Prince's name introduced into the Church Prayer.