mildred_of_midgard: (Default)
mildred_of_midgard ([personal profile] mildred_of_midgard) wrote in [personal profile] cahn 2020-09-29 03:20 am (UTC)

Re: Oster Wilhelmine readthrough - marriage negotiations

ETA: Though I should add that I do remember, if my memory isn't faulty, a very similar episode earlier in the memoirs in which Wilhelmine was given charge of a different younger sibling or siblings. I will need to look that up.

I was not misremembering! This passage is from 1725, so the year Wilhelmine turned 16:

In the mean time I was at Berlin in great favour with the king: I passed every afternoon in conversation with him, and he used to sup in my room. He even shewed me some confidence, and often spoke of state affairs. To give me a still greater mark of distinction, he ordered me to hold a drawing-room like the queen. The governesses of my sisters were placed under my command, and had orders not to stir a step without my knowledge. I did not abuse the king’s favour. Young as I was, there was as much solidity in my conduct then, as there can be now ; and I might have superintended the education of my sisters: but I did myself justice, and clearly perceived that it did not become me; neither would I hold a drawing room. I contented myself with inviting a few ladies every day.

So I think it's possible we'll find Heinrich in her care in the Stratemann volume tomorrow.

Post a comment in response:

If you don't have an account you can create one now.
HTML doesn't work in the subject.
More info about formatting