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Sunday, October 27, 2024

Diary of Henry Greville: June 28, 1861

London, Friday.—Bethell took the oaths yesterday and assumes the title of Westbury.

The Sultan is dead, and is succeeded by his brother, who is said to be a man of much energy, and very superior in all ways to his brother.

The Emperor Napoleon has recognised the King of Italy, but has made it to be understood that this 'recognition is not to be taken as an approval of the past policy of the Cabinet of Turin, or as an encouragement of enterprises of a nature to endanger the peace of Europe.' The French troops will occupy Rome as long as the interests which brought France there are not covered by guarantees. Ricasoli, in replying to this note, says, 'Our wish is to restore Rome to Italy without depriving the Church of any of its grandeur, or the Pope of his independence.' In the meantime His Holiness is ill, and his death may perhaps simplify matters.

There was a Drawing-room yesterday at which the Crown Princess and Prince of Prussia were present.

I have a letter from Fanny Kemble, who says the violence of the language against this country in consequence of our neutral attitude exceeds all bounds, and the nonsense talked upon the subject is quite incredible.

I went last night to Verdi's new opera, 'Un Ballo in Maschera,' which is dramatic and effective.

SOURCE: Alice Countess of Stratford, Leaves from the Diary of Henry Greville: 1857-1861, p. 385-6

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