In the meantime, however, the people are in the best possible humour, and I never was better received at Ascot, which is a great test, and also along the roads yesterday.

This is a most lovely place; pleasure grounds in the style of Claremont, only much larger, and with the river Thames winding along beneath them, and Oxford in the distance; a beautiful flower and kitchen garden, and all kept up in perfect order.

I followed Albert here, faithful to my word, and he is gone to Oxford[53] for the whole day, to my great grief.
And here I am all alone in a strange house, with not even Lehzen as a companion, in Albert's absence, but I thought she and also Lord Gardner,[54] and some gentlemen should remain with little Victoria for the first time.

But it is rather a trial for me.
I must take leave, and beg you to believe me always, your most devoted Niece, VICTORIA R.
[Footnote 52: The house of Edward Vernon Harcourt, Archbishop of York.] [Footnote 53: To receive an address at Commemoration.] [Footnote 54: Alan Legge, third and last Lord Gardner (1810-1883) was one of the Queen's first Lords-in-Waiting.] [Pageheading: THE PRINCE VISITS OXFORD] _Viscount Melbourne to Queen Victoria._ SOUTH STREET, _16th June 1841._ Lord Melbourne presents his humble duty to your Majesty.

He has just received your Majesty's letter, and will wait upon your Majesty at half-past five.