98. Household of Kaiser Wilhelm II.- Barnard (Katie E., companion of Princess Viktoria Luise “Lillon” (1892-1980), daughter of Kaiser Wilhelm II) Day-Book, 3 vol. only, manuscript diaries, c. 600pp., a few photographs tipped-in, one or two pp. loose, slightly browned, original cloth, edges slightly rubbed and faded, 8vo, 20th July - 4th October 1900.
est. £300 – £400
A well written eye witness account of life at the court of Wilhelm II as seen through English eyes. Comments on daily life, looking after Princess Viktoria Luise known as Lillon, being spyed on (th German court was notoriously anti-British) etc.
“I came face to face with the Emperor - who had dismounted & preceded the rest. He gave me his strong , heary handshake, saying: “Good morning, Miss Barnard, already a little cooler is’nt it.”
“I was told that the Empress wanted to see me in the Garden… I found her Majesty in the yew garden still in her riding habit & Lillon & Piky were playing with their mail-carts. ‘Oh Miss Barnard, the children would like to walk to Lynsters to get their when their brothers come out for their second breakfast at ¼ to 10; & I think they might walk there with you; & come back in the pony carriage.”