Queen Victoria to the King of the Belgians

Windsor Castle, 30th December 1854.

My dearest Uncle,—Once more, in this old and very eventful year, allow me to address you, and to ask you for the continuation of that love and affection which you have ever borne me! May God bless you and yours in this New Year—and though the old one departs in war and blood, may we hope to see this year restore peace to this troubled world, and may we meet again also!

With the affectionate wishes of all the children, believe me always, your most devoted Niece,

Victoria R.