1850-51 THE HOUSE IN RICHMOND PARK 381 
his children in botany, and he asked Owen’s 
advice as to the best method of so doing. 
After giving his opinion, Owen broached the 
subject of the house at Kew, saying how much 
he would prefer the smaller house in Richmond 
Park. The Prince said that he had seen the house, 
but that it was merely a cottage, and that there 
was no doubt whatever about the right of posses- 
sion of the Kew house — it was only the matter of 
waiting a short time. Owen represented to His 
Royal Highness how’ much more suitable the 
cottage would be for his small family, and Prince 
Albert said that of course, if he really preferred 
it, he had no doubt it could be arranged, as the 
Queen’s wish had merely been to do what might 
prove most acceptable. The matter was brought 
before Her Majesty, who was pleased to consent, 
and Owen shortly afterwards received the follow- 
ing letter from Sir C. B. Phipps : — 
‘ I have very great j^leasure in informing you 
that Her Majesty has been pleased to grant to 
you the house in Richmond Park, which you so 
much wished for. A communication to this effect 
has been made by the Prince to Lord John 
Manners. Allow me heartily to congratulate you, 
and to wish you every enjoyment in your new 
abode.' 
