On 1st April 1858, the confirmation of Queen Victoria’s eldest son, Prince Albert Edward, later King Edward VII, took place at Windsor Castle.
“A showery, raw morning. — Bertie came to wish me good morning, before breakfasting alone in his room. Our visitors came to breakfast. All the other Children looked for Easter eggs. — At a little before 12 we assembled with the Royal Family (Mama included) & our 5 Children. Albert went & fetched Bertie, who was in his Windsor uniform, Affie & Arthur being in kilts. The 3 girls wore blue dresses, I also. We proceeded to the Chapel, preceded & followed by the Court, Bertie walking between me & his father. He then stood just before the altar, we, to his left, & Mama & the Cambridges opposite. All those invited, had already taken their places in the Chapel. The same Hymns were sung, as at Vicky’s Confirmation, — fine, & impressive. Bertie behaved extremely well, answered distinctly & was very “receuilli” in his manner. The Archbishop gave a good Charge, with sound words of advice to Bertie, both as a Christian, & a Prince. Felt much the importance of this solemn step, for dear Bertie & prayed most earnestly for God’s all merciful guidance & protection & that our dear Child might ever look back on this day with thankfulness, & without any shame at having departed from his solemn vow & promises! Gave him a kiss, as we came out of the Chapel. […]
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[…] Talked to the visitors & guests in the Green Drawingroom. It was curious to see Ld Derby, Ld John Russell, Ld Palmerston, Lord Lansdowne, the Duke of Newcastle, & Mr Walpole, &c all together. We then went to the King’s Room, where the various presents were laid out. We gave Bertie a beautiful vase of silver, “repoussé” work by Veité, & Fritz & Vicky a fine statuette of St. George & the Dragon. The 5 Children, Mama, & the Cambridges also gave presents, as well as others. Luncheon at ½ p. 1. Darling little Beatrice, appeared for the 1rst time in short clothes, with stockings & shoes. – Wished our visitors goodbye, & went to our rooms. Saw Mr Gibbs & bestowed on him the Civil C.B., for his valuable services, & have appointed Mr Tarver Chaplain. – We walked later, with Bertie, Alice & Affie. — Saw the Dean & talked over the examination & Confirmation. He is much pleased with Bertie’s behaviour & good feeling. – We dined alone with Bertie, & afterwards had a good talk with him, then Albert & I played duets, & so ended this eventful day. May God’s blessing rest on it & on our dear Child! -“
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© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2012 © Bodleian Libraries © ProQuest
