Changing of the Guard

Abstract

When winter’s wrath fell in full fury on the hapless allies in the Crimea, the royal blood in both armies heard their consciences telling them that since the siege was now at a stand-still, their wisdom and experience might be utilized better at home in areas of broad policy-making. From a publicity point of view, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Napoleon could hardly have returned at a poorer time. With Britain’s army at its worst and the newspapers filled with grotesque details, strong criticisms were inevitable. This unpopular reception disgruntled the Duke who was thoroughly in ill-humor and “very much annoyed” by it all.¹