But, towards the end of the reign, the Whig party began steadily to lose ground, and the Tories to consolidate themselves.
Lord Melbourne had succeeded Lord Grey at the head of the Whigs, and the difference of administration was becoming every month more and more apparent.

The King indeed went so far as abruptly to dismiss his Ministers, but Parliament was too strong for him.

Lord Melbourne's principles were fully as liberal as Lord Grey's, but he lacked practical initiative, with the result that the Whigs gradually forfeited popular estimation and became discredited.

The new reign, however, brought them a decided increase of strength.

The Princess had been brought up with strong Whig leanings, and, as is clear from her letters, with an equally strong mistrust of Tory principles and politicians.
A word may here be given to the Princess's own character and temperament.