“Less windy, & chilly. — Service at 11, performed by a Mr Fisher from Aberdeen, who preached a good sermon. — Heard that the poor Emperor was bearing up with great fortitude. Had a touching telegram from him, in answer to mine. — Had tea in the Cottage with Beatrice, Louie, Feo & Emich. Afterwards took a short drive but it came on to rain almost immediately & the carriage had to be closed. — The last telegram from Sir H. Rumbold says that it was not realised at first that the Empress had been stabbed. She was able to go on board the steamer, but soon fainted, when a small blood stain was discovered on her dress, the assassin having used a shoemaker’s awl. The Empress was conveyed to the Hotel where she died in about 2 hours without having recovered consciousness. The Arch Duchess Valérie was expected at Vienna today, which would be a great comfort for the Emperor. — Jane C., Mrs Moreton, Sir F. Edwards, Col: Davidson, Ld James, & Mr Fisher dined. Had a good deal of talk with Ld James, who is so clever & agreeable. —“
© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2012
© Bodleian Libraries © ProQuest