at Osborne was given in entire charge. There the princes dug in the garden, while the princesses performed the duties of the kitchen. As they grew older the girls studied natural history and made large collections of birds and insects. The boys learned something of fortifications under the direction of their father. Prince Albert, both by precept and example, endeavored to make his sons feel the responsibilities belonging to their station. Perhaps he felt that in these days of increasing democratic tendencies only a wise king can maintain his place.
After the death of Prince Albert, the Queen felt it desirable to place in enduring form tributes to his memory. She also asked the assistance of others in placing on record the memorials of his life. First were published in 1862 his "Speeches and Addresses," then in 1867 "The Early Years of H. R. H. the Prince Consort," compiled by Lieutenant-General C. Grey, and in 1875 "The Life of H. R. H. the Prince Consort," by Theodore Martin, on whom the Queen conferred the honor of knighthood.
Her close and constant connection with these literary labors led her also to venture modestly into the field of authorship. Her first book was "Our Life in the Highlands," which records her memories of the happy days spent with him who was the light of her life. Fifteen years later she sent forth "More Leaves from the Journal of a Life in the Highlands," showing how she had learned lessons of resignation and faith from the simple mountaineers, and was cheered by romantic excursions in Nature's wilds. Such admission of the public to the quiet joys and sorrows of the domestic life of the Queen of course disarms criticism, as it treats the reader as a privileged guest. We see in them, as in all that is recorded of her life and acts, a noble woman, who has in one of the most difficult stations in life grandly, yet quietly, discharged her duty as daughter, wife, mother and queen. The inspiration of her whole life is perfect faith in God and devotion to duty.
