Alexandra's letter to Ernst, dated August 20/September 1, 1899

Alexandra wrote this letter to her older brother, Grand Duke Ernst of Hesse, on August 20 (Old Style; New Style date September 1), 1899.

Source:

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The letter:

My darling Ernie,
We go on board the 'Standart' this afternoon & start to-morrow early in the morning. God granting we arriving before Copenhagen Sunday evening, landing Monday morning. I shall wire to you upon our arrival. — I hope we shall have a good passage, to-day the sea is like a mirror & it is raining, but these last days we have had real storms, — & many beautiful trees were torn down & uprooted. — The children are most excited & enjoying the idea of going on board. It is just a year ago we went on board at Sebastopol — I love the yacht, she is so splendid & far more comfortable even than the 'Polar Star'.

Baby has been short-coated to-day, as it is more convenient for the journey & she is really growing so heavy. — I hope the wetnurse & I won't be seasick else the poor little maiden will be badly off. — We cannot quite fix the day of our arrival at the Wolfsgarten, but as soon as it is settled I shall let you both know. How eagerly we are awaiting that moment you can imagine. And Nicky is looking forward to the lawn-tennis & riding — I fear I may not join in those pleasures as my inside hurts me still when I move about much. And I am so eager to see all your new arrangements. —

Now I must say Goodbye as we are off to Church (before the voyage). With best love to Ducky & kissing you my Ernie dear ever so tenderly. Ever yr loving old Sunny.

[P. S.] Please thank Wilhelmino many times for all the heather & give her my love.

Above: Alexandra with her third daughter Maria, year 1899.

Above: Ernest.