Ever your faithful Uncle and Friend, LEOPOLD R.
[Footnote 42: The King had offered the Princess an establishment of L10,000 a year, independent of her mother.
This was accepted, to the great vexation of the Duchess of Kent, but the arrangement was not carried into effect.] [Footnote 43: King William's health was at this time causing much anxiety.] [Footnote 44: Private Secretary to King William IV.] [Pageheading: BIRTHDAY REJOICINGS] _The Princess Victoria to the King of the Belgians._ _26th May 1837._ ...

The demonstrations of affection and kindness from all sides towards me on my birthday, were most gratifying.

The parks and streets were crowded all day as though something very extraordinary had happened.

Yesterday I received twenty-two Addresses from various places, all very pretty and loyal; one in particular was very well written which was presented by Mr.Attwood[45] from the Political Union at Birmingham.
I am delighted to hear Stockmar is at length arrived; he reached London on Wednesday, and we shall see him to-day.
How distressed I am that poor dear Ernest[46] has been so ill! Thank God! that he is now better.
The Spanish affairs have turned out better than you had expected; the triumphant capture of Irun[47] was a great thing for the Christinos.
The King is much better.
[Footnote 45: Thomas Attwood founded in 1829 the Birmingham Political Union, which helped to pass the Reform Act.

Previously he had been known for his opposition to the Orders in Council, and the resumption of cash payments.