In the meantime I will begin this epistle, which will go by a messenger of my own to-morrow.

In every letter I shall write to you I mean to repeat to you, as a _fundamental rule_, _to be courageous, firm and honest, as you have been till now_.
You may count upon my faithful good offices in all difficulties, and you have at your command Stockmar, whose _judgment_, _heart_, and _character_ offer all the guarantees we can wish for.

I wish nothing but to see you _happy and prosperous_, and by Sunday I shall probably write you a long letter, which will enter into details about most things.
My object is that you should be no one's _tool_, and though young, and naturally not yet experienced, your good natural sense and the _truth_ of your character will, with faithful and proper advice, get you very well through the difficulties of your future position, should it be the will of Providence to take the King from this earthly life.

Of his real position I am still not quite able to judge, there being so much contradictory in the reports.

Be this as it may, the great thing for you is, not to be hurried into important measures, and to _gain time_.
A new reign is always a time of hope; everybody is disposed to see something for his own wishes and prospects.