Item 81 - Letter from Paul François Hubrecht to Sir George Trevelyan

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Prinsegracht 10, 's Gravenhage:- Encloses the drafts of Sir George's settlement [of money on Elizabeth and any children in the event of Robert's death] and deed of covenant which he received in Sir George's letter of 8 May [13/48]. Inspection of these proves that 'Dutch legal institutions differ from English ones so much that it would be presumptuous... to make any objections': they consider arrangements to be 'quite satisfactory', and that Elizabeth's position, both now and in future, 'is perfectly safe in your hands'. Would like to know at some point 'by which English laws the settlement and the deed are considered to be irrevocable'; presumes 'a copy of the same will be given to Elizabeth'. It may be advisable to add to the indenture 'public stocks or funds of the Kingdom of the Netherlands', after the reference to the same 'of Great Britain', but he leaves this entirely to Sir George. Has not found with these drafts that of the marriage contract which he himself sent to Sir George and Robert, and asks whether he can conclude the draft meets with their approval; would be 'much obliged' if the copy could be returned.

Is going with Elizabeth today to arrange rooms at the Hotel De Oude Doelen, according to the Trevelyans' wishes; will ask the hotel landlord to write to them with more details [see 46/82]. Will be glad if Sir George and Lady Trevelyan can dine with them on 5 June, 'quite en famille'; asks for this invitation to be extended to Robert's brothers. They are happy to arrange the weddling luncheon according to Sir George and his wife's wishes.