The circumstances in the case of the young Victoria were thus totally
different. She stood alone, and it was clear that some one must help
her to grapple with the thousand and one difficulties which
surrounded her. It was for some time uncertain who would undertake
the duty, until, almost before he had realized it himself, Lord
Melbourne found himself in the position of 'guide, philosopher, and
friend.'
How he devoted himself to this work can be judged from the fact that
no one--not even any of his opponents--regarded him with the
slightest mistrust or jealousy.
Melbourne was at this time fifty-eight years of age, an honourable,
honest-hearted Englishman. He was sympathetic by nature, fond of
female society, and, in addition, was devoted to the Queen. His
manner toward her was always charming, and he was in constant
attendance upon her.
Nor was the training which the Queen received from him limited to
politics, but matters of private interest were often discussed.
Every morning he brought dispatches with him to be read and answered;
after the midday meal he went out riding with her, and, whenever his
parliamentary duties allowed, he was to be found at her side at the
dinner-table. When he retired from office he was able to state with
pride that he had seen his Sovereign every day during the past four
years.
The news of her engagement to Prince Albert was received by him with
the keenest pleasure, and the Queen in writing to her uncle says:
"Lord Melbourne, whom I of course have consulted about the whole
affair, quite approves my choice, and expresses great satisfaction
at the event, which he thinks in every way highly desirable.
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