On 17th April 1862, the confirmation of Princess Helena, fifth child of Queen Victoria, took place at St Mildred's Church, whippingham, Isle of Wight.
"So sad in waking to think what was to come & was much upset when dear Lenchen came in to me. While I was breakfasting, Baby brought up her basket of eggs, for I was determined, that dear Customs should be kept up. Alice & Affie hid them for the youngest Children. - At 10. m. to 12 we left for Whippingham, Lenchen dressed all in white, with a white bonnet & cloak. She drove with me in the Post Chaise, the 4 other children following. All the Household & some of the upper Servants had preceded us to the Church. Good sir James Clark had come down on purpose. Within the altar rails stood the Bishop of Winchester, the Dean & MrProthero. The beautiful little Church, with its subdued light had a solemn effect. I stood not far from Lenchen, close in front of the altar, & the other children below the upper step. All the rest of the people were in the pews. I seemed to be in a dream but I was determined to keep up for dear Lenchen's sake. I trembled greatly when our dear Child received the Blessing & was much moved, as also by the concluding allusion in the Bishop's Charge. Prayed fervently that God would bless our beloved child, whom her adored Father loved so dearly. I can scarcely believe she is nearly grown up. Her heart was very full & she had tears in her eyes, but she was very calm. When we got back we went to dear Albert's room, where I gave Lenchen our presents. Amongst others she got our Order, which I have established as a Family Order, called the "Victoria & Albert". - Walked for a short while with Louise. It was very warm. - Saw the Bishop of Winchester, who is the brother of the Arch Bishop. - Lenchen lunched with me & I drove with her & Augusta B. She also dined with me. Later Alice read to us a most touching account of the confirmation of dearest Albert & Ernest C.
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