Victoria

This is Masterpiece.

MAN: A messenger from Windsor is here.

The king is dead, Your Majesty.

WOMAN: I'm afraid.

MAN: I know, ma'am.

But I also know how much courage you have.

WOMAN: I do not need you to tell me what to think.

This is not a game!

Fire!

WOMAN: If I require advice, I will ask for it.

Surely you understand what is at stake here!

Starring Rufus Sewell, Tom Hughes, May I have the pleasure?

And Jenna Coleman.

WOMAN: A great responsibility lies before me, and I assure you, I am ready.

Victoria, beginning tonight on Masterpiece.

(birds chirping) (horse hooves beating, horse neighing) (horse snorting) Yah!

Yah!

(horse neighing) (knocking) Begging your pardon, ma'am, the messenger from Windsor is here.

He has a black armband on his right arm.

You are the first to know.

And no one else knows?

I came straight to you, Sir John, as instructed.

Good man.

I must get to work.

And I suggest you smarten yourself up.

You are steward of the queen's household now.

(knocking on door) (whimpering) The messenger is here.

With a black armband.

Your Majesty.

(dog barks) I can manage, Lehzen, alone.

It is my sad duty to inform you that the king breathed his last at 12 minutes past 2:00.

My poor, dear uncle.

(barks) May God have mercy on his soul.

(dog whimpering) Your Majesty.

Naughty Dashy!

Gloriana Hallelujah Gloriana Hallelujah Gloriana Hallelujah, hallelujah (door opens) Prime minister?

The king?

Coffee.

Yes, sir.

Drina, what is...?

Der Koenig?

Yes, Mama.

Mein liebling.

Mein kleines mdchen ist die Queen.

No more German, Mama.

You must remember you are the mother of the Queen of England now.

Oh, Sir John.

That awful old man is dead and now little Drina is Queen.

SIR JOHN: So...

I suppose the first thing to decide is how you will style yourself.

"Alexandrina"?

That's too foreign.

And "Victoria" is hardly the name for a queen.

We need something more traditional, like Elizabeth, perhaps, or Anne.

I think "Elizabeth II" sounds very well.

(footsteps) Your Majesty.

Lady Flora, don't you think "Elizabeth" would be an excellent name?

A reminder of a great queen.

SIR JOHN: Yes.

DUCHESS OF KENT: Has the archbishop come?

We must not keep him waiting.

Actually, the archbishop has already left.

You saw him on your own?

I intend to see all my ministers alone.

This is not a game!

In future... ...you must be accompanied by your mother or me.

(sighs) (breathing deeply) William, do stop for a moment.

Is it true the king is dead?

I'm on my way now to Kensington to kiss hands with the new queen.

I hear her tongue is too big for her mouth.

WOMAN: Nonsense!

I have seen the queen and she is perfectly formed.

So William, why the long face?

Oh, I'm tired of governing.

I wish I could just retire to Brocket Hall and contemplate the rooks.

The rooks must wait.

Your queen needs you, your party needs you, and I would very much like a place at court.

In that case, Emma, I say I have no choice but to shoulder my burden.

Good day.

(tower bells chiming) I think it's a little late for Blackstone's commentaries now, Lehzen.

We haven't got very far with our studies of the constitution.

I'll just have to do the best I can.

I suppose I shall be returning to Hanover.

You are not needing a governess now.

Dearest Lehzen, someone has to run my household the way I would like it.

LEHZEN: The queen wants all her things moved into the blue state room tonight.

She will be sleeping there from now on.

I'll have to talk to Sir John about that.

No, Mr. Penge, you will not.

The queen has put me in charge of the royal household.

I congratulate you, baroness.

I warn you, Mr. Penge.

I intend to run this household according to modern principles of economy.

I will want to see all the accounts, and that includes the dressers' book, Mrs. Jenkins.

I will have no patience with extravagance.

So now we are answerable to a governess.

And a German one at that!

God save the queen.

And all who work for her.

Prime minister, a moment of your time.

The queen has led the most sheltered life until now, and her mother is naturally concerned that she should not be overburdened.

(faint voices) As her mother's trusted advisor, if I were to act as the queen's private secretary, you could be sure that your interests would be served most faithfully.

Well, thank you, Sir John.

I shall bear that in mind.

Lord Melbourne is here.

Perhaps I should stay as chaperone.

No, a monarch always meets the prime minister alone.

Drina...

I mean, Majesty.

I have always tried to shield you from these things, but Lord Melbourne I'm afraid is disreputable.

Nevertheless, I will meet him alone.

You may go in now.

May I offer you my condolences on the death of your uncle, Your Majesty.

He was always kind to me.

Though he did have some strange ideas about who I should marry.

I believe he favored the Prince of Orange.

A prince with a head the size of a pumpkin.

I see you have a keen eye for detail, ma'am.

May I?

What's her name?

She doesn't have a name.

She's number 123.

My mother gave her to me on my 11th birthday.

With the crown?

That came later.

I made it for her on the day I realized I would be queen.

When was that?

I was 13.

I was having a history lesson with Lehzen.

She showed me the family tree.

And I looked at it for a long time, and then I realized I was next.

Were you pleased?

I remember thinking my uncle's crown would be too big for me.

(chuckles) I believe you're acquainted with my mother's advisor, Sir John Conroy.

I have met him, ma'am.

I'd not say we were acquaintances.

He would like to be your private secretary.

That is out of the question.

I see.

He means to run me as he runs my mother.

Well, then, you must have someone else.

Perhaps I might act for you.

There's a great deal of business that needs to be attended to.

The despatch boxes I imagine are probably already on their way to you with documents that require your signature.

Of course, tomorrow is the privy council.

Thank you, Lord Melbourne, but when I require assistance, I will ask for it.

In that case, ma'am.

(tower bells chiming) (dog barking) You are going to Kensington Palace?

To swear allegiance to my niece.

She is very young and rather delicate.

Now your foolish brother is dead, if anything should happen to her, you are the heir to the throne.

(faint conversation) Gentlemen.

Shall we?

(faint voices) (sighs) (loud din of conversation) (talking stops) (softly): My lords.

Now that it has pleased Almighty God to call to His mercy my uncle... Can't hear you!

(louder): I know that I'm young, and some would say my sex puts me at a disadvantage, but I know my duty, and I assure you I am ready for the great responsibility that lies before me.

Your Majesty.

(whispering): Lord Ilchester.

Lord Ilchester.

(whispering): Lord Howard.

Your Majesty.

Lord Howard.

Your Majesty.

(whispering): Viscount Falkland.

Viscount Falkland.

Lord Shaftesbury.

Your Majesty.

Lord Fitzroy.

I believe you know this one.

Your Majesty.

Uncle Cumberland.

When will you be going to Hanover?

I am in no hurry.

My first loyalty is to the British throne.

I'm sure the people of Hanover will be sorry to hear that.

MELBOURNE: I believe there's quite a crowd outside waiting to hear the proclamation.

Perhaps now would be a good time to show yourself on the balcony.

(faint din of the crowd) In the proclamation, I'm referred to as Alexandrina Victoria.

But I do not like the name Alexandrina.

From now on, I wish to be called... Victoria.

Queen Victoria.

(crowd cheering and applauding) (chatter) This is Miss Skerrett.

She is to work with you, Mrs. Jenkins, as a dresser.

But the senior dresser always chooses her own assistants.

I've already begun to make enquiries.

Well, I've saved you the trouble.

Miss Skerrett was a pupil at the Chiswick Institute and has come highly recommended by the principal.

I'm sure Mrs. Jenkins will be very grateful for the help.

Highly recommended, is it?

Aren't we the lucky ones?

What is it they taught you there, hm?

Astronomy?

The pianoforte?

French?

Some French, ma'am, but mostly needlework and how to make myself useful.

At least you're English.

There's enough Germans at the palace.

Pumpernickel Palace.

I will do my best, Papa.

(door opens) Still playing with dolls, Your Royal Highness?

Forgive me.

Still playing with dolls, Your Majesty?

We must look over the letters patent.

There are still so many decisions to be made.

And I believe there are several bishoprics to be filled.

I think, Sir John, now that I'm queen, I do not need your assistance.

Thank you.

What?

Do you really imagine that you can step from the schoolroom straight to the throne without guidance?

Do you have any idea of what is at stake here?

I'd have been better prepared if you'd allowed me to go out into society instead of keeping me here at Kensington all the time.

I know my duty is to serve my country.

Mama, you know I'm ready.

I want so much to make you and poor dear Papa proud.

What can a girl like you, unformed, possibly do to serve our country?

No.

You must take advice.

And we must be your shepherds.

I think you forget.

Although I am young and perhaps ignorant, I am my father's daughter, the granddaughter of a king, and I believe I shall find my own way, and if I require advice, I will ask for it.

Sir John, you have our permission to withdraw.

Drina...

Please, Drina.

Sir John is your friend.

No, Mama.

He's always been your friend, not mine.

I'm surprised they didn't teach you how to do this at your institute.

Think that's taken, Mrs. Jenkins?

I hope you realize how lucky you are to be here.

Oh, this is exactly the kind of life I want.

I am very good at mending, Mrs. Jenkins.

Would you like me to see what I can do with these?

Oh, the queen won't wear mended gloves.

She has a fresh pair every time she goes out.

But she does wear mended stockings, so you can show me how clever you are with those.

DUCHESS OF KENT: Drina is so...

I don't know how to say in English.

Stubborn?

She's always been stubborn.

I think we should move at once.

Flora Hastings actually came into my closet unannounced this morning.

She's Mama's lady-in-waiting, not mine.

And that man was in the library when I came down to look at newspapers.

She will soon realize that she is out of her depth with only the baroness to run things for her.

I cannot live like this any longer.

You would be quite separate at Buckingham House.

Yes.

Don't take less than five shillings.

Have I ever let you down before, Mrs. Jenkins?

Go on, off you go.

That parcel Mrs. Jenkins gave you.

Where are you taking it?

To the pickers, of course.

That's the second parcel this week I've taken.

Mrs. Jenkins does well from the pickers?

Oh, yes.

Five shillings for a pair of gloves, and she once got three guineas for shoes.

She always gives me a sixpence for running them down for her.

Oh, don't worry, Miss Skerrett, I'm sure you'll find your own perk right enough.

Well, thank you for setting me straight, Mr. Brodie.

(footsteps) The carriage is waiting, Your Majesty.

VICTORIA: So many windows.

They almost bankrupted your uncle George.

But how light it will be after Kensington.

Did you find it so very dark there?

It was hard to see things clearly.

Oh, I think this will do quite well.

Yes, I think before your first leve, we should probably try to find a throne that fits.

It is hard to be dignified when your feet are six inches from the floor.

You see, I don't understand why this place is called a house, not a palace.

You can call it whatever you like, ma'am.

You could get lost in here.

MRS. JENKINS: This is what I call a royal residence!

SKERRETT: She is small, but she ain't no midget!

BRODIE: No.

Everything is in proportion.

At least here I'll be completely separate from Mama.

I cannot have Sir John hovering about me all the time.

I believe the duchess relies on Conroy a good deal.

He's been handling her affairs for some time.

They all think because I'm small that I'm still a child.

They've always underestimated me.

They expect me to fail.

They don't believe me capable of being queen.

I think they're mistaken, ma'am.

And anyone who dares comment on your stature should be sent straight to the Tower.

(laughs) I've only known you a short while, ma'am, but I'm confident that you will bring great credit to the monarchy.

It's true your education may be lacking in some areas, but you have a natural dignity that cannot be learnt.

You don't think I'm too short to be dignified?

To me, ma'am, you're every inch a queen.

Lord Melbourne, when we first met, you offered to act as my private secretary.

You did not accept my offer.

But you are still willing?

I would be honored, ma'am.

Thank you.

Lord M. How are you finding the north wing, Your Royal Highness?

Where are my daughter's rooms?

In the south wing, ma'am.

And where do you sleep, baroness?

I have a room next to the queen with an interconnecting door.

I see.

The north wing!

I know.

This is... Duchess?

Ma'am?

Well, I think I shall go back to Coburg.

Forgive me, Duchess, but you shall do no such thing.

The queen will falter, and when she does, you must be on hand to guide her and show the country that even if the daughter is foolish, the mother is not.

You're right.

I'm not a flib... flib... Flibbertigibbet?

VICTORIA: Mama!

I came to see how you've settled in.

So kind of you to come such a long way.

SIR JOHN: Now that you are established here, ma'am, it is time that we chose your ladies.

It is vital to set the right tone.

FLORA: I have drawn up a list of reliable maids of honor, ma'am, none of them above average height.

Good day, Mama.

I hope you'll find it comfortable here.

Ma'am?

I urge you to look at my list, ma'am.

You don't want to make any mistakes with your maids of honor.

Young girls can be so flighty.

Really?

You know, ma'am, that you cannot be too careful with these appointments.

They set the tone for the whole court.

Please allow me to serve you in any way I can.

I will bear that in mind, Lady Flora.

PENGE: Careful, boy!

The pickers won't take them if they're broken.

BRODIE: Still, though, you'll be doing all right for yourself, Mr. Penge.

That's over a thousand candles a week in this corridor alone.

Don't suppose there's an extra shilling in it for me, you know, for running them down to the pickers?

Sixpence?

You're learning, boy.

Nice try.

We usually change around three times a day.

More, of course, if we've been out riding.

This is Skerrett, Majesty.

From the Institute at Chiswick.

Oh, yes.

Tell me, are you good with hair?

SKERRETT: I hope so, ma'am.

I have so much trouble with mine.

Mama always made me wear it like hers, l'anglaise, but I would like something more au courant.

Au courant, ma'am?

I am not familiar with that style.

Oh no, it's not a hairstyle.

Au courant means "fashionable" in French.

I'm inspecting the troops tomorrow, and there'll be so many ladies of fashion there.

Perhaps a pendant braid around each ear?

It's a style that suits a face like yours.

It is very au courant at the moment.

Do you think that's wise, ma'am?

As Skerrett has not done your hair before, she might not do it to your liking.

Well, if she does my hair half as well as she has done her own, I will be quite satisfied.

(men shouting) The Honorable Lord Hastings!

HASTINGS: The queen I'm sure is a most accomplished young lady, but a talent for watercolors is not going to strike terror into the hearts of our enemies.

(men shouting) MAN: The prime minister!

I do not agree with the noble lord that advancing years is the sole prerequisite for wisdom.

I would remind him of his friend Pitt the younger, who led this house as prime minister at the age of 24.

(men shouting) HASTINGS: The keen interest the prime minister is taking in the young queen's education has not gone unnoticed.

Melbourne is so attentive to my daughter.

There are apparently some women who find him attractive.

HASTINGS: I'm sure she is most appreciative of his support.

Your Majesty, I wondered if I might have a word.

Now?

I need to change for dinner.

You see, I noticed during the parade that you turned your back on the troops on a number of occasions.

I'm sure it was a mistake, but according to precedent, if a sovereign turns their back on a regiment, they will no longer form part of the household cavalry.

I assume this was not your intention.

Indeed not.

But no one mentioned it to me.

I assure you they noticed.

But no one likes to correct their monarch, ma'am.

Except for you, evidently.

I feel it is my duty.

There are many things that the baroness, being German, did not teach you.

I'd be happy to help you in future.

My family have been courtiers for generations.

That won't be necessary.

If there are gaps in my knowledge, I have an excellent tutor in Lord Melbourne.

PENGE: The Duchess of Sutherland.

What a pleasure to be here, Your Majesty.

I thought the duchess would make a good choice for Mistress of the Robes, ma'am.

And, as you know, the duke is in the cabinet.

She looks very elegant.

Is she respectable?

As respectable as a great lady can be, ma'am.

PENGE: The Lady Portman.

MELBOURNE: Now, do consider Lady Portman.

Her husband is under secretary for the colonies and something of a boobie, but she knows everyone.

Lady Portman knew your father, ma'am.

Such a handsome man, Your Majesty.

And a very good dancer.

That must explain why I love dancing so much.

Of course, there can be no dancing until the coronation.

Is there to be a coronation ball then, ma'am?

Yes, indeed.

That is, if it isn't too expensive, Lord M?

Well, I'm hoping you'll only have the one coronation, ma'am, so I think a little extravagance is permitted.

She seems to be almost besotted.

Sir John.

I fear you've been waiting for me.

The duchess is concerned about the appointment of the queen's ladies.

Yes, I believe it's the first time she's been allowed to choose her own companions.

She must find it a pleasant change.

So you have chosen her to be your Mistress of the Robes?

Harriet Sutherland is charming.

But she's the wife of Melbourne's friend.

It is not good to be so in his hands.

It seems to me you have made her into a Whig puppet.

It may look that way to you, Sir John.

As a man who's never seen further than his own self-interest, I suppose it must.

But I hold myself to a different standard.

FLORA: I feel I should tell you, ma'am, that at Holland House, they call you Mrs. Melbourne.

MELBOURNE: The queen is a remarkable young woman, and I consider it the greatest privilege of my career to serve her.

Well, I feel I should tell you that Mama and Sir John are known as the Conroyals.

Sir John, at least, has never been involved in a case of criminal conversation with a married woman.

Lord Melbourne was acquitted.

I cannot look into your soul.

But you are a man, and she is a very young and impressionable woman.

DUCHESS OF KENT: Please, Victoria.

He is someone who is clever at stealing hearts.

He must not take yours.

I bid you good day.

Mama came to see me this morning.

Yes?

She thinks I should not always be guided by you.

MELBOURNE: Perhaps she's right.

What do you mean?

I should not be your only advisor.

But why not?

We are so often in each other's company.

We ride out most days, I dine at the palace nearly every night.

It could be misconstrued.

I wonder that you have not married again, Lord M. My wife died a few years ago and I've never been able to replace her.

She was not a model wife by any means, but she was enough for me.

You did not mind she ran away with Lord Byron?

Yes, I minded.

But you did not disown her.

I think I would find such behavior hard to forgive.

Perhaps you're too young to understand.

PENGE: I find it hard to believe that we are having this conversation again.

LEHZEN: But already this month we've spent 70 guineas on beeswax candles.

It is a big place, baroness.

You might even call it a palace.

Well, I'm sorry, Mr. Penge, but you will have to make economies.

You're not suggesting we use tallow.

If you have to.

What's wrong with tallow, Mr. Penge?

Nothing, boy, if you enjoy the smell of melting mutton fat.

I haven't seen anything so splendid since your brother George was here.

My brother George was an extravagant fool.

I suppose I must save the first two dances for the Grand Duke.

Did you find out how I should address him?

Votre altesse imperiale.

The Russians speak French at court.

But is he an Imperial Highness or a Grand Ducal Highness?

Lord M should be here, he always knows these things.

I expect he's on his way, ma'am.

I thought he'd be here by now.

I don't want to walk in without him.

(footsteps) There is a message from Lady Portman, my lord.

She says she knows what day it is, but the queen is asking for you.

(footsteps receding) Oh, Drina, how charming you look.

But remember, you're not only here to enjoy yourself.

All the ambassadors will be here, plus, of course, the grand duke.

The world will be watching.

So don't drink too much champagne.

Or dance too often with the same partner.

Just a little this way.

(crowd chatting) (crowd quiets down) Where is Lord M?

I expected him hours ago.

I am sure he'll be here soon, ma'am.

MAN: His Imperial Highness, the Grand Duke Alexander of Russia.

Bienvenue.

Nous sommes enchants de vous voir.

Your Majesty, I bring the felicitations of my father the emperor on your accession to the throne.

You speak English!

Will Your Majesty do me the honor?

(orchestra playing joyful music) You have been missed.

She seems to be managing quite well.

(music continues) I have been looking for you everywhere.

You are needed in the retiring room right away.

All the chamber pots need emptying.

But that's a chambermaid's job.

I think you can probably manage, don't you?

(music continues) I've been observing all the ladies, but none of them dance as well as you.

Please, will you do me the honor?

If you insist.

I do.

Are you going to watch her all night?

She is completely artless, of course.

She no sooner has a thought than she expresses it.

She's too impulsive for a queen.

And yet... PENGE: Can you smell it?

The tallow?

Oh, you didn't!

What next, Mr. Penge?

(laughing) Having trouble?

(music continues) MAN: I had no idea Russians were so handsome.

But not civilized.

Look where he's putting his hand!

(gasps) The poor queen!

Lord Alfred, I think it's time the Grand Duke found another dancing partner.

I beg your pardon, Your Imperial Highness.

There's a messenger from Petersburg.

Tell him to wait.

I believe, sir, it is urgent.

GRAND DUKE: This is outrageous!

Surely, this could have waited!

May I have the honor?

I thought you weren't going to come.

I had a matter to attend to.

I thought perhaps you were cross with me.

With you?

Never.

It seems you have been supplanted.

It would be unfortunate if she were to do anything foolish.

Perhaps you and I can find a way to prevent that...

I think we have that situation in hand, sir.

I only mean to say, ma'am, that should you require it, you can count on my support.

VICTORIA: You dance so well.

I wish I could dance with you every night.

You are very young.

I am 18!

Old enough to be queen.

You are not old, Lord M. If only that were true.

(music stops) (applause) (music restarts) I think Lady Flora is with child.

Surely not!

LEHZEN: When she came back from Scotland, she shared a coach with Conroy quite alone.

Lady Flora and Sir John?

Right under Mama's nose.

(dripping) Sir John.

Why aren't you dancing?

With Lady Flora?

I believe she is your preferred partner.

You never could take champagne, Drina.

Ma'am, I did warn you.

Now I suggest you retire before you embarrass yourself.

You cannot lecture me anymore, Sir John.

I will not listen to you.

And if my mother only knew what you were like, she would not listen to you either.

(music continues) (music stops) Ma'am.

The duchess was hoping for a word.

(loudly): Mama sent you?

(crowd goes silent) To tell me what to do?

(gasps) (music restarts) MELBOURNE: Ma'am.

It's very hot in here.

Shall we take a walk out on the balcony?

I'm afraid you're tired, ma'am.

Perhaps you should retire.

I don't want to retire.

I want to dance with you.

Not tonight, ma'am.

(scraping) PENGE: As you can see, baroness, I'm making an inventory of the beeswax candle consumption for the palace so that I can place an accurate order for next week.

We don't want to resort to tallow again, do we?

But what will you do with all those candles?

Some of them are barely touched.

Surely they can be used again?

It has always been the custom to light fresh tapers every evening in the royal households.

To reuse them would require written permission from the Lord Chamberlain.

Well.

The sooner the gas lighting is installed, the better.

Written permission from the Lord Chamberlain.

Whatever will you say next, Mr. Penge?

Gas lighting.

She said gas lighting.

Yes.

You'll need to find a new perk.

Hm?

Fetch it, Dash!

Drina.

You wanted to see me?

Mama.

(clears throat) You must send Lady Flora and Sir John away immediately.

I do not want them here.

I certainly do not want them at the coronation.

(speaking German) Speak English, Mama.

I don't understand, Drina.

(barking) Mama...

I'm sorry, but I believe there's been a criminal conversation between them.

Surely you have noticed Lady Flora is with child.

Oh, Drina.

It is impossible.

No, it is quite possible.

Lady Flora and Sir John shared a carriage from Scotland alone.

Who told you that?

Lehzen.

(sarcastically): Baroness Lehzen knows so much about what happens between a man and a woman!

Mama, that man has controlled you and now he has betrayed you.

(scoffs) Mama!

(shattering) Ah, Lady Flora.

I was hoping I might find you.

It seems hardly credible, but I've had no card for the coronation.

Neither have I.

Well, it's an insult.

To the duchess, not to invite her closest companions.

I am no longer surprised by the queen's behavior.

She seems to have lost all sense of decorum.

MELBOURNE: Lady Flora has powerful friends, ma'am.

Tory friends.

It would be unfortunate to have a scandal so close to the coronation.

There are those who believe a girl as young as you is not capable of being queen.

That's what Conroy believes.

A man of the basest character.

He must go.

There may be more delicate ways of making him go than accusing him of getting a child on Lady Flora.

Even if it's true?

Well, I have no desire to stir up the Tories at the moment-- it's hard enough controlling my own party-- but I don't want you to do something rash.

I believe I have a duty here to find out the truth.

I'm afraid the truth is vastly overrated.

Much better of you to let this affair alone.

Tomorrow, I take the coronation oath.

How can I promise to serve my country faithfully when my court is rank with corruption?

The problem with a scandal is that the mud does not always stick to the right people.

Is that all you care about?

Avoiding a scandal?

I do know how painful and humiliating a scandal can be.

I don't believe I sent for you, Sir James.

No, no, I...

I believe I know why you are here, Sir James, and you may tell the queen that I have nothing to say.

SIR JAMES: I am afraid, Lady Flora, the queen will not be satisfied with that.

DUCHESS OF KENT: What does my daughter want?

I believe, ma'am, she would like an... ...examination.

For the avoidance of doubt.

The queen feels it is the only way to put the matter to rest.

There are two things I hold dear in life, Sir James.

One is my church and the other is the crown.

If the queen really believes that I am capable of betraying everything that I hold dear, then I am willing to prove her wrong.

But I want my own physician to be present as well.

For the avoidance of doubt.

DUCHESS OF KENT: Flora is so distressed that it has made her quite unwell.

Your daughter has always been unstable.

That is why we wanted a regency.

For the good of the country.

Well, now.

Now people will see that we were right.

MAN: Fire!

(faint artillery fire) (faint chanting) (chanting): God save the queen!

I solemnly promise... (door opens) Majesty, it is still so early.

You should rest.

I can't sleep any longer.

(chanting) Can you hear them?

I am ready.

(crowd cheering) Gloriana Hallelujah Gloriana (knocking) Enter.

MAN: All rise!

Hallelujah Gloriana Hallelujah ALL (chanting): God save the queen!

(breathing deeply) (tower bells chiming) (crowd cheering) Dash!

(kissing) Come on!

(whimpering) Ma'am.

(yelps) I wanted to congratulate you on your performance today.

You were most regal.

PENGE: Sir James Clark.

SIR JAMES: Forgive me, ma'am, I thought it better that I come in person.

I have performed an examination of Lady Flora, and I have found her to be virgo intacta.

But is she with child?

Uh, no, ma'am.

The one generally precludes the other.

Oh, I see.

I believe that the swelling, which indeed could be mistaken for pregnancy, is actually the result of a tumor.

I believe Lady Flora to be gravely ill. Conroy.

Sir.

How is Lady Flora?

She's, um... She's very weak, sir.

She's refusing all food.

The queen must be brought to account.

She has treated Lady Flora quite shamefully.

You know about the examination?

Lord Hastings is an old friend and fellow Tory.

He feels very strongly about the way his sister has been treated.

I think the public would be shocked if they knew of the queen's part in this.

My niece must not be allowed to bring the crown into disrepute.

The duchess feels that it is time Victoria received a more formal guidance.

A regency?

I believe it has come to that, yes.

HASTINGS: This shocking mistreatment of an innocent women does not reflect well on our new monarch.

Should our queen not be guided by a regent?

Someone older and wiser who will not lead the country into disrepute.

And forgive us our trespasses.

And those who trespass against us.

Melbourne, just the fellow I was looking for.

I'm on my way to the palace.

It's unfortunate that this business has got into the papers.

My niece has been queen for five minutes and already the crown is covered in scandal.

Good morning, ma'am.

I suppose you've seen this?

CUMBERLAND: A firm hand on the tiller.

That's what this country needs.

MELBOURNE: And would that hand be your own, sir?

CUMBERLAND: The press can be so cruel.

It seems the obvious choice.

MELBOURNE: But not the popular one, I think.

The queen may have her difficulties at the moment, but the one thing that would rally the public to her support would be the prospect of being ruled by you.

MELBOURNE: Might I have a word with you, ma'am?

I'm sorry, ma'am, I'm afraid it couldn't wait.

Flora Hastings has taken a turn for the worse.

I should have listened when you told me to do nothing.

It's always easier to give advice than it is to follow it, ma'am.

(sighs) I'm afraid.

I know, ma'am.

But I also know how much courage you have.

Lady Flora.

I am sorry to see you so unwell, but I'm sure with rest and care, you'll soon be on your feet again.

(door closes) Is there anything we can send you?

Some peaches, perhaps?

I am beyond peaches, ma'am.

Why, you mustn't say that, Lady Flora.

With rest and care... Everything I need is here.

I know I am going to a better place.

I have...

I have wronged you, Lady Flora.

And now I've come to ask for your forgiveness.

Only God can forgive you.

I was wrong.

I see that now.

You did not act like a queen.

I thought it was my duty.

To be a queen, you must be more than a little girl with a crown.

You have responsibility for your subjects.

They are not dolls to be played with.

PENGE: Won't be long now.

First death at the palace.

I wonder if we'll go into mourning?

If only the queen had asked me.

I could have told her that Lady Flora was blameless.

I have a nose for these things.

(footsteps) Look what I found on my daily inspection.

A parcel of the queen's gloves on their way to what I believe is called the pickers to be sold at a profit.

Mrs. Jenkins.

Yes?

I think I recognize this as your hand?

SKERRETT: No, Baroness.

That is my writing.

I expected more from you, Miss Skerrett.

I shall have to tell the queen.

(door closes) What did you do that for?

Mrs. Jenkins has been no friend to you.

Do as you would be done by, Mr. Brodie.

(footsteps) LEHZEN: Oh!

Forgive me, Majesty.

No, that's all right.

There is a concern about your new dresser.

There is evidence that she may be less than honest.

Baroness Lehzen tells me that I should dismiss you.

You must answer Her Majesty.

I've abused my position, ma'am.

I've been selling your gloves to the pickers.

You mean there are people who buy my old gloves?

But after all, I don't need them.

Why shouldn't you sell them?

But Majesty, it is a matter of principle.

I've had enough of principle.

Skerrett can stay.

Thank you, ma'am.

My poor Flora is dead.

Oh, Mama.

I am sorry.

So you should be.

You drove her to her grave.

Excuse me, ma'am.

I went to see Lady Flora to apologize.

(door closes) You sent doctors to humiliate a dying woman.

I am sorry, Mama.

I see now I was mistaken.

It is Sir John you should be apologizing to.

He also has been accused and he too is innocent.

Of that particular crime, perhaps, but he is guilty, Mama, of far worse.

Do you think I am blind?

Oh, Drina... You have always said you wanted to protect me, but you have never protected me from him.

Every time he laughed at me for being short, you laughed with him.

Every time he told me I was young and foolish, you agreed.

But then ever since I can remember, you have always looked at him first, then me.

My poor Drina.

You're not yourself.

(sighs) You cannot continue like this.

Enough!

Enough, Mama.

You may leave us.

(inhales deeply) I suppose I should say thank you.

No need.

So long as we understand each other.

You are a strange one, Miss Skerrett.

I thank you all the same.

(sighs) (faint shouting outside) (footsteps) Good morning, ma'am.

Come.

There are three regiments waiting, I believe.

I can't.

I can't do it.

Everything is ruined.

It's all my fault.

(sighs) I don't believe I ever told you why I was late for the coronation ball.

Did you know I had a son?

Augustus.

And that day was his birthday.

When Caro ran away, he became very afraid of the dark.

He would only go to sleep if I was holding his hand.

Funny thing is, I don't think I was ever happier than on those nights when I was sitting there, feeling my little boy drift off.

When he died, I thought there was no point to my existence.

Lord M, how can you say that?

I no longer feel that way, ma'am.

I thought I would never find any solace.

But then I became your prime minister and, I think, I hope, your friend.

Of course, nothing will ever bring my boy back, but through you, I've been given a reason to continue.

You must do the same.

You must go out and you must smile.

You must smile and wave and never let them know how hard it is to bear.

MAN: Long live the duchess!

Long live the duchess!

(crowd cheering) (officer shouting commands) MAN IN CROWD: What about Flora Hastings?

Shame on Her Majesty!

What about Lady Flora?

(scattered shouting) I followed your advice as far as I was able.

I waved, although I couldn't smile.

But I feel I shall smile in the future with your help, Lord M. (bell tolling) MAN: Long live the duchess!

(crowd cheering) CUMBERLAND: I am concerned about my niece, Wellington.

She was actually in tears at the parade.

She seems incapable of taking care of the business of government.

Perhaps she had fallen out with Melbourne.

He may be the queen's favorite, but that's no reason why the country should suffer.

She seems to be quite enthralled.

CUMBERLAND: Indeed.

He is altogether too indulgent of my niece's unstable temperament.

Are you suggesting that the queen is not of sound mind, sir?

Let us say, Peel, that her wits are fragile.

I suspect that the cares of office are proving too much for her.

WELLINGTON: I am sure the Duchess of Kent would be delighted to step in, and of course Sir John Conroy would be at her side.

CUMBERLAND: Conroy?

The duchess would need the appointment of a co-regent.

Of royal blood?

Precisely.

They're all waiting for me to speak.

I can never think of anything interesting to say.

Everything the queen says is interesting.

That is the third time you've looked at your pocket watch since we arrived.

Do you have a more pressing appointment?

There's an anti-slavery bill going through Parliament at the moment.

I'm worried about its outcome.

Surely slavery was abolished a long time ago.

Well, it's still legal in some of the Caribbean islands.

The Tories have taken up the cause because they think they can bring down my government.

Can't I do something about it, as queen?

If it's known that I support abolition... Well, I'm sure the Liberals would applaud your good sense, and the Tories would think I've filled your head with bunkum.

And if I insist?

You cannot, ma'am.

Advise, yes; encourage, certainly; even warn, but you cannot insist.

(footsteps approaching) Such a splendid day.

Did you hear the crowds cheering me, Drina?

It was most flattering.

I think the people would appreciate it if the duchess were given a title that reflects her position.

The queen mother.

That seems fitting to me.

But your current title belonged to poor dear Papa.

I see no reason to change it.

MAN: Your Majesty.

Surprised you're not at the house, my lord.

I hear the vote is... very close.

(whispering): Ma'am.

Sorry to desert you, but I'm afraid I'm being called back to the house.

Now?

Please forgive me.

SPEAKER: The honorable Lord Hastings!

I say to the house that if slavery is abolished in Jamaica, then the economy of the island will be imperiled.

(murmuring) MELBOURNE: And I say to the noble lord that a moral principle cannot be ignored simply because it is inconvenient.

This barbaric practice must be abhorrent to all civilized people.

(yelling) SPEAKER: My lords!

Some decorum, if you please!

(hammering and banging) (men whistling) There are workmen with dirty boots in my kitchen, Mr. Penge.

I'm trying to make a cake for the queen's birthday, a cake that will dazzle the court with its artistry.

But how can I reach the very pinnacle of my craft when I'm surrounded by noise and dust and whistling?

Don't blame me, Mr. Francatelli, blame the baroness.

She's the one that ordered the gas to be put in, though why they had to start down here, I will never know.

FRANCATELLI: Well, you must tell the baroness that I cannot work under these conditions.

Try telling the baroness anything.

SKERRETT: She sets great store by the queen's birthday.

I'm sure if you told her that the cake wasn't going to be ready, she would want Mr. Francatelli to work in peace.

Oh, thank you, Miss... Skerrett, sir.

(scoffs) What are you doing?

Dressers don't curtsy to cooks.

Oh, but I am not a cook.

I'm a chef.

Oh!

And let there be light!

(squealing) (screams) PENGE: That's what happens when you interfere with nature.

BRODIE: I'll get them.

Will you be very long, Mr. Hayter?

The crown is so heavy and far too big for me.

I thought it might slip down over my nose in the abbey.

HARRIET: Really, ma'am?

You looked so serene.

My heart was beating so fast, I thought the archbishop would see it through my shift.

Lord M said he'd never seen someone tremble so.

He told me he thought you did it beautifully.

VICTORIA (softly): I am concerned about him.

He does not seem himself.

My husband said they're worried about the Jamaica bill.

There is a great deal of opposition.

LADY PORTMAN: Your uncle Cumberland would like nothing better than to bring down poor William.

The funny thing is, a few weeks ago, he would have been delighted.

He was always complaining about how tiresome it was being prime minister.

But not anymore.

(clears throat) SPEAKER: Order!

My lords, I call for a vote on the Jamaica bill.

The ayes to the right, the noes to the left, gentlemen.

(gasping) Look, Mr. Penge!

I reckon I could catch all of them by midnight.

You just leave those rats alone, boy.

I've got plans for them, big plans.

It can only be described as an infestation.

That's the trouble with gas, it shines light on things you'd rather not see.

The queen must not know.

She has a great fear of these animals.

So you are authorizing me to hire a rat catcher?

With all the extra expense that entails?

You must find an expert.

Certainly, baroness.

(Lehzen leaves) (bell ringing in distance) I think you will be impressed, Majesty, when the gas lighting is finally installed.

I hope Lord M won't be much longer.

I so want to show him the painting I did of Dash.

He said it couldn't be done.

There's his carriage.

Lord M!

The others had given you up, but I knew you would come.

I must show you a painting I did of Dash.

I got him to sit still for just long enough.

MELBOURNE: That's a feat in itself.

(stammers): I must tell you, ma'am...

The Jamaica bill passed by only five votes this evening.

And that means that I can no longer lead the Whigs in government.

But if the bill passed, why should you resign?

The Tories are like hyenas, ma'am.

Once they scent a man is down, they circle, looking for weaknesses.

The next vote we would certainly lose.

I'd rather leave now.

This cannot be.

How can I... How will I... Do you really mean to forsake me?

I have no choice, ma'am.

(crying) My poor Victoria!

Such a big change.

How will I manage?

I know how you're feeling.

To be a woman without a man to lean on is so hard.

He is the only one who understands.

No, not the only one.

(weeping): Oh, Mama.

(knocking at door) LEHZEN: Please open the door, Majesty.

If you don't get up now, there won't be time to get ready.

(barks) (barking) You don't suppose she's done something stupid?

LEHZEN: Never!

It is just some nerves.

Excuse me, Your Grace, but have you informed Lord Melbourne?

He is so good at putting the queen in a good humor.

Brodie could take a message to Dover House in no time.

MELBOURNE: I strongly suggest, ma'am, that you ask the Duke of Wellington to form a government.

He is, of course, a Tory, but better the devil you know.

SERVANT: The Duke of Wellington.

VICTORIA: I understand that I am obliged to ask you to form a government.

Lord Melbourne says he no longer has the confidence of the house and that your party must take charge.

You do me a great honor, ma'am, but I regret that I am too old to be prime minister again.

It is time to make way for a younger man.

You should send for Robert Peel.

But I do not know Sir Robert.

And I have admired you all my life.

You flatter me, ma'am, but I am afraid that this is a battle you cannot win.

JENKINS: Look at the mud on these!

Very unlike ma'am to get her things so dirty.

I think Her Majesty is distracted.

Yeah.

We wouldn't put in her curl papers last night.

The pillow was wet through this morning.

I feel sorry for the queen.

She is so attached to Lord Melbourne.

(gas hissing) Whatever she thinks of Lord Melbourne does not concern you.

We just take care of the clothes and make sure she looks like a queen.

Now, then... How do you turn this thing on?

(screams) Oh, Mrs. Jenkins!

Oh, I shall fetch some butter from the kitchen.

(moaning) May I have some butter?

It's for Mrs. Jenkins.

She's burned her hand lighting the gas.

You can have butter if you like, but I can give you something better.

You can?

Now, close your eyes.

Not likely.

You might do something complicated.

Oh, please.

Or you'll spoil my surprise.

(yelps) An ice house!

I had heard about them, but...

There's something about your very charming face that's familiar.

Could we have met before?

I don't think so.

I had better get back to Mrs. Jenkins.

SIR JOHN: Your Majesty.

One moment.

Ma'am.

I imagine the change of government is unsettling.

I know how much you value Lord Melbourne's counsel, but you have other friends, ma'am.

In contrast to your estimable Uncle Cumberland, I should like to assure you of my loyalty.

The duchess and I are ready to shoulder the burden of government.

I shall not need your assistance.

Hmm.

With respect, ma'am... that may not be your decision.

It's all on account of the gas pipes.

They must be dealt with discreetly.

Her Majesty don't like rodents.

It's a big job, mind, place like this.

I'll have to charge royal prices.

I am sure we can come to an arrangement as to fees, but you should be aware that as the steward, I take an emolument.

Well, it's only to be expected, Mr. Penge.

PENGE: And if it should be found rats reached as far as the staterooms, then of course you would need many more assistants.

Well, you are a master of the situation, Mr. Penge.

I sent for Lord M hours ago.

Why hasn't he come?

I imagine, ma'am, that he is waiting for you to talk to Sir Robert Peel.

Why would I do that?

Because, ma'am, the country needs a government, and at this moment, it seems that only Sir Robert has the confidence of the house.

I hear that Wellington has refused you.

Don't worry, Sir John and I will help you-- we have a plan.

As it happens, I also have a plan.

Lehzen, can you call my carriage?

I'm going to go to Dover House to see Lord M. Have you lost your mind, Drina?

Queens do not chase after their prime ministers.

LADY PORTMAN: Perhaps, ma'am, you should take my carriage.

It would be less... public.

DUCHESS OF KENT: Do you really want to make another mistake?

Yes, thank you, Emma.

I will take your carriage.

Lehzen, you can be my chaperone.

(door opens) I'm not to be disturbed!

Your Majesty!

That will be all, Lehzen.

(door closes) As you would not visit me, I decided to visit you.

Forgive my disarray, I-I was not expecting visitors.

Evidently.

(laughs) Please, at least... Come.

Come, sit.

You can tell me what has brought you from the palace.

I saw the Duke of Wellington.

He has refused to form a ministry, and says I must send for Sir Robert Peel.

Yes, I thought he might.

I don't want Sir Robert Peel.

Lord M, how can you leave me to face this alone?

Do you imagine that I want to leave you, ma'am?

There's something more important here than my feelings, or even yours.

You are the queen of the greatest nation on Earth, one that elects its government and abides by the rule of law.

Now, I don't believe in much, as you know, but I do believe in the British constitution in all its tattered glory, and nothing, not even my devotion to you, will stop me from upholding it.

I see.

Peel's not such a bad fellow, really.

Just remember, if he suggests anything that you don't like the sound of, just ask him for a little time to consider.

When in doubt, always delay.

And you will come for dinner tonight so I can tell you all about it?

No, not tonight.

Not until this matter is settled, and even then I cannot be at the palace as much as I have been.

Why not?

I think if you are not my prime minister, you are still my friend?

I think you must know why.

A monarch cannot be seen to favor one political party.

You must dine with Robert Peel.

And he may ask you to make a few changes in the royal household.

Harriet Sutherland and Emma Portman are both married to Whig ministers.

He will probably want you to replace them with Tory ladies.

But they are my friends.

I would ask the same in his position.

A prime minister must feel he has the confidence of his monarch.

Oh, look, these stones are so dirty.

They must be cleaned before we go to Hanover.

Hanover will have to wait.

I think it's going to be far more interesting to stay here, now that Melbourne has gone.

I do hope the loss won't prove too much of a strain on her wits.

Oh, they have never been strong.

Those awful bonnets.

I heard today she actually went to Dover House quite alone.

Seems to have lost all sense of propriety.

If this persists, changes will be inevitable.

(sighs) COACHMAN: Whoa.

In a hurry, Sir Robert?

Her Majesty has sent for me.

Might I offer a word of advice?

Everything will go very smoothly if you avoid contradicting her.

She does hate to be proved wrong.

I am sure that she will understand the situation when presented with facts.

I find that the queen responds to a personal approach, a well-told tale.

She does tend to find the detail a trifle wearisome.

I thank you for your advice, but I'm sure that we will do very well.

Her Majesty cannot expect things to continue as they did under your ministry.

In that case, I wish you a very good day.

VICTORIA: I have no chin in this one and two chins in the next.

How can they say it is an accurate likeness when none of these images look the same?

Look at the coin itself, ma'am.

It is more convincing in relief, I think.

But I look like a goose, wearing a crown.

Sir Robert Peel.

PEEL: Your Majesty.

Sir Robert.

Take a look at these designs for the new coin.

What do you think of this?

Well, I see nothing wrong with it, ma'am.

Indeed, I would say it is an excellent likeness.

Really?

But you are here on business, Sir Robert.

Uh, yes, ma'am.

Perhaps if I might have a private audience.

I am here to assure you that I have enough support in the house to form a government.

Of course, as you know, ma'am, any government serves at the pleasure of the crown.

I do know how the constitution works.

And, of course, ma'am, you know it is essential that the crown-- that is, you-- must appear to be above party politics and favor neither side over the other.

Have you come to give me a lesson in government, Sir Robert?

There is the question of your household, ma'am.

My household?

Four of your ladies are married to Whig ministers.

If you were to replace one or two of them with ladies connected to my side of the house, then there would be no danger of you appearing to favor one side.

You want me to give up my ladies, my closest and dearest friends?

Whatever next, Sir Robert?

My dressers?

The housemaids?

Do you want to surround me with spies?

It is not my intention to deprive you of your friends, ma'am, simply to ask you to be friendly to all.

I absolutely will not give up my ladies, Sir Robert, and what's more, I believe you have no right to ask me.

Not even one?

I think I've made myself clear.

Thank you, Sir Robert.

Your mama isn't going to be told what to do by Sir Robert Peel or anyone else.

She dismissed me like a footman caught stealing the silver.

Hm, it appears she has her grandfather's temper.

But she cannot refuse you.

I'm afraid she has.

She will not change a single lady.

Nonsense, man.

Go back and offer her someone charming, like Emily Anglesey.

I am sure Her Little Majesty would exchange her for that cat Emma Portman.

I cannot form a ministry on the basis of Lady Anglesey's charms.

No stomach for the fight, eh?

WELLINGTON: You should learn to win her over, like Melbourne does.

I'm afraid I do not have Lord Melbourne's ease of manner.

She would be yours if you would just flirt with her a little.

Forgive me, I had not realized that flirting was a prerequisite for being prime minister.

CUMBERLAND: Can this really be true?

The Tory Party, the party of Burke and Pitt, have been defeated by the caprice of an 18-year-old girl?

I cannot form a government without the support of the sovereign.

The queen refuses to make any changes to her household, and therefore I cannot proceed.

Behavior is barely rational, to make such a to-do over her ladies.

Mind you... My father behaved in this way, at the beginning of his affliction.

If this persists, changes will be inevitable.

SIR JOHN (angrily): Do you know what that... ...child has done?!

No one tells me anything.

Your daughter has told Peel that she will not get rid of any of those Whig harpies that surround her!

And now Peel won't form a government unless she does.

No one can tell Victoria what to do.

She's trying to get Melbourne back, of course, and if she succeeds, we will not be able to protect her with a regency.

I think I should be the one to resign, ma'am.

Harriet plays the piano much better than me, and she has such an eye for fashion.

No one is going to resign, Emma.

You are my ladies and my friends.

But, ma'am, you will have to make some adjustments.

It is the custom when the administration changes.

Otherwise Sir Robert will feel he does not have your support, and then he cannot form a government.

Precisely.

Isn't it rather late for you to be out, Miss Skerrett?

I had an errand to run and it took longer than expected.

Oh, perhaps that's where I've seen you before.

Running errands.

Not unless you were in Chiswick, Mr. Francatelli.

No, I've never been to Chiswick.

But I never forget a face, especially one as pretty as yours.

I'm sure you've seen many pretty faces, Mr. Francatelli, but mine isn't one of them.

(bell ringing) Whoa.

(sniffs) (sneezes violently) (door opens) There you are, Conroy.

I confess I was surprised to get your message, sir.

It seems to me my niece has taken leave of her wits, like my poor father.

Yes.

I believe you are right, sir.

She's always been prone to hysteria, ever since she was a child.

I'm afraid that the strain of her position has disordered her senses.

Papa used to talk to himself, and scream at nothing in particular.

Does my niece do anything like that?

Well, her behavior is certainly erratic, sir, yes, yes.

No one wants to believe that the head that wears the crown is anything less than sane, but if needs must, we must not shirk our duty.

No, indeed.

I'm sure the duchess is concerned for her daughter's welfare.

But I'm worried, too... ...for the country.

It may be that we can come to some sort of arrangement together.

A regency on the grounds of insanity?

You put it bluntly, but... With the duchess as regent?

To be convincing, it would be necessary to install a member of the British royal family as co-regent.

Huh.

Well.

I am sure the duchess will want what is best for her daughter.

And for the country.

That, too, sir.

Of course.

LADY PORTMAN: So what will you do now, William?

Now that you don't have to play nursemaid to your royal charge?

I shall go to Brocket Hall to finish my commentary on the life of St. Chrysostom.

Little Vicky told Peel she won't give up a single lady, and she doesn't want him as prime minister.

It's not her decision to make!

A message from the palace, my lord.

The queen would like to see you at your earliest convenience.

That's your summons.

What are you going to tell her?

I believe, Emma, the queen knows the difference between duty and inclination.

What have you done to your hand, Mrs. Jenkins?

Oh, I was trying to light the new gas mantle, ma'am.

Lehzen believes we must change with the times.

But then she's not the one who's lighting the gas.

Is it very painful?

It could have been worse, ma'am.

(rat squeaking) What was that?

Probably just the wind, ma'am.

(dogs barking) Installing the gas downstairs has disturbed the rats.

They're looking for new territory.

I saw one in the throne room this morning.

The throne room!

PENGE: Indeed, baroness.

They're spreading through the palace like a miasma of corruption.

But you will deal with them, Mr. Penge.

Certainly, but it will be an expensive business.

Dear Lord M. Don't you think I've arranged things marvelously?

You have been most resourceful, ma'am.

Sir Robert was so rough with me.

He wanted to send all my ladies away and replace them with some horrid Tory spies.

Peel is, um...

He's a fine politician and a man of principle, but I fear he has never understood the fairer sex.

I have missed you.

It's been all of a day and a half.

And whilst I salute your tenacity, ma'am, I must tell you that if I were to return as prime minister, it would not be in your interests.

Not in my interests?

But it is all that I desire in the world.

Well, you flatter me, ma'am, but I cannot allow you to jeopardize the position of the crown on my account.

Allow me?

Peel was perfectly within his rights to ask you to make some changes in your household.

If I lose them, I will have no one!

It'll be like Kensington all over again.

Peel does not understand this, but you do.

But he does deserve your support.

A monarch must be seen to be impartial.

I can't help it if all my friends are Whigs!

Perhaps that is because that is all you know.

I don't believe, if Sir Robert had been my prime minister from the first, I would ever have liked him half as much as I like you.

You are still young and inexperienced, and it is my job-- no, it is my duty to see that you come to no harm.

If I were to form a government now, critics would say that I had manipulated you for my own advantage.

I am not a piece of clay to be molded by any hand.

No, indeed, but you must understand that it does not matter who you like or do not like.

How could you say that?

Surely my inclinations are paramount.

Your Majesty, surely you understand what is at stake here!

Lord Melbourne, you forget yourself!

Don't you want to be my prime minister?

Not in these circumstances.

The relationship between crown and Parliament is a sacred one, and I will not allow you to put it in danger.

(door opens and closes) Drina can be foolish, and headstrong, maybe, but she's not mad.

Visiting Melbourne at his house on a whim is hardly rational.

I suppose he had a mad wife, so this kind of behavior's quite unexceptional to him, but it is not fitting in a queen.

She's a young girl with a tendresse for a man.

It is not so unusual.

A spell of calm and seclusion is what she needs, sequestered from the cares of her position.

No.

That is too much.

I want to help her.

This is the best way to help her.

(softly): My dear duchess... You know how much I want you to take your rightful place.

As regent.

Sir.

Brandy, in the library.

And I'm not at home.

To anyone.

(sighs) I couldn't sleep.

You need to be rested for your birthday celebration.

Let me take you back to your room.

(squeaking and scampering) Mama, did you hear that?

My poor little girl.

You must not start at shadows, or people will whisper about you.

They remember your grandfather.

My grandfather?

What are you saying, Mama?

It is not what I am saying.

But maybe you're needing some rest and quiet.

I will protect you, Drina.

I will not let them take it away from you.

There was a time, Mama, when I needed your protection.

But instead you allowed Sir John to make you his creature.

Sir John at least cares about my existence.

You have banished me from your affections.

And whose fault is that, Mama?

Do you want any particular style, ma'am?

I can't seem to fix on anything today.

Mr. Penge, a word.

Her Majesty heard a rustling last night in the sitting room.

I told her it was nothing.

I hope I was correct.

I hope so, too, baroness, but when you upset the natural order of things with your gas lighting, the consequences are far-reaching.

CHILDREN: God save our gracious queen Long live our noble queen.

Look!

Oh, it's dear little Dash.

(laughs) Who made this?

Mr. Francatelli, Your Majesty.

The palace chef.

I must congratulate you, Penge.

This has all been done very prettily.

God save the queen!

(singing ends) VICTORIA: Mama.

DUCHESS OF KENT: Happy birthday, Victoria.

SIR JOHN: May I add my best wishes on your birthday, ma'am?

The first of many more as queen, I hope.

Perhaps you'd like to open your presents, ma'am.

From Lord Melbourne, ma'am.

He thinks I would benefit from studying the heavens.

Happy birthday.

Thank you, Mama.

A volume of Shakespeare.

King Lear.

"How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is to have a thankless child."

(squeaking) (screams) SIR JOHN: Quickly!

Calm yourself.

(Victoria screaming) SIR JOHN: Ma'am!

Ma'am, calm yourself!

Hysterics.

(sniffs) Over a rat?

You could hear her all over the palace.

Was there a rat, or was it an hallucination?

My father used to see a red dog.

I believe there was a rat, but the queen's reaction was excessive.

It must raise the question as to the state of her wits.

I wonder if Wellington and Peel will feel the same way.

Peel may put aside his scruples when he realizes what is at stake.

The duchess wants no harm to come to her daughter.

We will care for her together.

Together.

I believe, ma'am, that your nerves have been under considerable strain.

You must have complete rest so that your equilibrium can be restored.

Out of the question.

I have an engagement this afternoon.

But ma'am, you are not yourself.

I had a shock, Sir James, that is all.

I am not an invalid.

(whispers): The strain is too much for her.

There was one the size of a baby, and not a newborn one, neither.

(laughing) PENGE: Baroness.

How may I help you?

LEHZEN: I came to tell you that I have decided not to install gas at the palace.

It has caused too much disturbance.

As you wish, baroness.

(laughing) WELLINGTON: I'd heard reports of, uh... an incident on your birthday, and I was concerned.

I'm in perfect health.

As you see.

Then you must be aware that it is time for you to call someone to form a government, ma'am.

I know Peel is not a charmer like Melbourne, but, uh, he's sound enough.

Very possibly.

But I will not give up my ladies.

They are my allies.

You were a soldier, duke.

Would you want to go into battle alone?

I was not aware that you were fighting a war, ma'am.

Because you are not a young woman, duke.

And no one, I suspect, tells you what to do.

But I have to prove my worth every single day.

And I cannot do it alone.

MAN: Robert Peel, the prime minister!

I wonder if I should wave at the crowd.

No one seems to be smiling.

MAN: Who's running the country?!

WOMAN: Appoint a government!

WELLINGTON: This situation is getting out of hand, Melbourne.

Cumberland thinks the little queen listens to voices in her head, like her grandfather.

If he's right, we'll have to appoint a regent.

Must have someone sensible at the heart of things.

You cannot mean that, sir.

Perhaps not.

But I am not the man to put those rumors to rest... Melbourne.

MAN: Her Majesty, Queen Victoria.

Welcome, Your Majesty.

(muttering and soft coughing) (footsteps approaching) MELBOURNE: May I be of assistance, ma'am?

I should be most grateful.

It seems I can't manage unaided.

Then it will be my pleasure to serve you, ma'am.

Do you mean...

If you do me the honor of asking me to form a ministry, ma'am, I would accept.

SPECTATORS: Ah... No picture could truly do you justice, ma'am, but this comes close.

(laughs) And that is the Lord's Anointed.

WELLINGTON: The public like having a young queen.

It makes the country feel youthful, don't you know.

No one wants a queen who has lost her reason.

Oh, I think the queen looks eminently sane.

See, she has Melbourne by her side again.

I expect that he caught wind of your plans and decided he would not have it.

My plans?

I have no desire other than for a Tory government.

Oh, we shall be in office soon enough, but in the right circumstances.

Oh, you are a very fine piece.

Let me go.

I am not for sale.

Everyone is for sale.

It just depends on the price.

Really, sir, I'm not.

Please leave the lady alone.

And who are you, her protector?

No.

Her friend.

Thank you.

You are more complicated than I thought, Miss Skerrett.

I knew I'd seen you before.

Ma Fletcher's nunnery, if I'm not mistaken.

Now, the question is, how you got from a house of ill repute to the queen's dressing room.

That's my business.

Please don't tell on me, Mr. Francatelli.

Oh, don't worry, Miss Skerrett.

I don't care where you come from.

I'm just looking forward to getting better acquainted.

MELBOURNE: So young.

And with such responsibilities.

She should not have to bear them alone.

I am so glad William has agreed to form a ministry.

You have arranged things very well, ma'am.

I outflanked my enemies, as the Duke of Wellington would say.

But you do know that your days are numbered, don't you?

Yes, of course, any prime minister knows that.

I mean that the queen must marry soon.

And then...

Yes.

Then she will look to her husband, not to me.

I know.

Gloriana!

Next time on Masterpiece... MELBOURNE: There has been an uprising by a group calling themselves "Chartists."

You must talk to Victoria about Albert.

MAN: I have seen the way my niece looks at you.

We cannot marry where we please, you and I.

(crying): I think I will never be happy.

Victoria, next time, on Masterpiece.

Gloriana!

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Hallelujah!