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Writer's pictureVictoria Regina

Queen Victoria’s Journal - The confirmation of Prince Alfred, 5th April 1860



On 5th April 1860, the confirmation of Queen Victoria's second eldest son, Prince Alfred, took place at Windsor Castle.


"Saw dear Affie for a moment. He did not come to breakfast. — Afterwards we walked with the visitors, Alice, Bertie & the little girls down to St. George's Chapel & showed them the beautiful monument of dear Aunt Gloucester, which is now finished, & with which they were greatly delighted. Fine, but a very high wind. — Dressing, I, in a striped blue satin dress, Alice, in lilac & the little girls in green. We all assembled at 12 in the Audience Room, dear Mama & Marie L. joining us. Albert then fetched up Affie, who was in his uniform, & proceeded to the Chapel, we & Affie going in first. Everything just as at the 3 previous Confirmations, with the exception of Mr Onslow being within the altar rails [...]


The Bishop of Chester, as Clerk of the Closet, stood behind me. The service was very impressive, & dear Affie was much impressed & overcame when I kissed him & pressed his dear beautiful face between my hands. A very fine Chorale "Oh, happy bond that seals my vows" was sung by the St. George's Choir, & the Arch Bishop's Charge was very good & to the purpose. After the service was over we talked to the Company & then went into the King's Room, where all Affie's presents were laid out. We gave him a fine clock, a seal, a telescope, &c, & Mama a fine watch chain. At ¼ to 2 we all sat down to luncheon, including dear Mama. The Baby appeared, looking a great duck. Afterwards we took leave of all our guests. — Took a walk with Affie. — Received a telegram from Victor, saying his father was better, but he had been almost despaired of. — Saw Major Cowell, to whom we gave a fine silver vase, & Mr Onslow (whom I like so much) a silver inkstand. — We dined alone with our 3 children, & afterwards when Alice & Affie were gone, had a long talk with Bertie, whom we found very sensible & right minded, with good & right feelings. Thus ended this important day."

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