The King of the Belgians to Queen Victoria

Laeken, 13th July 1860.

My beloved Victoria,—...Bertie has then set out on his interesting journey, which though not without fatigue will be full of information and satisfaction for his young mind. I am glad to hear that dear Albert went with him, he can have no equal to his good and distinguished father for kindness, and a wise guidance of his young life....

Footnote 29: In consequence of the loyal and patriotic assistance rendered by Canada during the Crimean War, and the expressed desire of the Canadians to be visited by the Queen in person and to welcome one of her sons as Governor-General, it was decided that the Prince of Wales should make a tour there. During the course of the visit, which was made in company with the Duke of Newcastle, the Prince opened the magnificent bridge over the St Lawrence; he subsequently availed himself of President Buchanan's invitation already referred to (ante, p. 373), and was received with the greatest enthusiasm at Washington. The Prince returned to England in November.

Footnote 30: Referring to a previous letter, in which the Queen had informed the King of the Belgians that Prince Albert had accompanied the Prince of Wales as far as Plymouth.