Page:Wives of the prime ministers, 1844-1906.djvu/206

WIVES OF THE PRIME MINISTERS "January 17.—William dined in the city to meet Prince Albert. Peel spoke well, and the Prince was evidently affected in alluding to his dear ties which bind him to England. Elizabeth Fry sat between the Prince and Sir Robert Peel.

"January 20.—William dined at Putney with Lord and Lady Ripon. He liked her extremely, and she was particularly thoughtful in wishing me to come there for country air.

"January 22.—Dined with the Barings to meet Lord and Lady Stanley, Lady Granville, etc., Lord Stanley taking me in to dinner. I was very shy, he was in great spirits, full of fun and jokes. At all events he can shake off the cares of office. I was interested, but relieved when we went upstairs, where I got on with both the ladies well.

"January 24.—George, the page, did not know what event we celebrated on Christmas Day! I hope he will come on, but it is sad, as he is near fifteen.

"January 29.—To-day William met the King of Prussia at Bunsen's. H.M. recognised him, and said he wished to have some conversation with him about his book. Lady Canning was the only lady except the hostess. A queer 170