Charlotte’s presentation at Court

11 May 1854

… In entering the reception room our trains were let down, first Lady Glasgow’s, then Mariquita, then Self.  Had to march up between two file of red coats, (saw no more) somebody stepped forward for my card, which, wonderful to say, I remembered I had, (so thought I).  When I reached the place, Self knew somehow or other that the Queen must be there; saw a tall fair gent: in red whom – guest must be Prince Albert, & beside him a very short lady with prominent nose, & red face, fat, & rather old looking, whom – never took for the Queen; was on the point of passing when somebody behind touched Self & whispered “The Queen”, in her agitation, forgot whether to kneel or curtsey, did half & half; made a low 2^nd bow, & 3^rd to his Highness, & in the hurry to get away, – think Self turned her back upon Royalty, at least knew nothing till she saw Mariquita backing most beautifully, & remembered she shd be looking at her Majesty instead; turned ½ round , & got out somehow or other, with joy.  Sat some time in the anteroom.  Alline Pringle told me she turned her back too, S. told me, that I turned as pale as ashes at the awful moment.