Ernst II Prince Hohenlohe-Langenburg Signed Royal Letter Princess Marie Melita

Description

This exceptionally rare and historically significant handwritten letter, dated November 6, 1928, was composed and signed by Ernst II, Prince of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, and addressed to his daughter, Princess Marie Melita of Hohenlohe-Langenburg (1899–1967). Written from Weikersheim, the letter offers an intimate glimpse into the personal life of a German aristocrat during the interwar period. In this deeply personal correspondence, Prince Ernst discusses his demanding schedule, family matters, and health concerns for a family member referred to as “Baby.” The letter reflects the balance between his personal affections and the obligations of his noble status, with references to hunting trips, business matters such as timber sales, and the Standesherrentag (a meeting of aristocratic dignitaries). This remarkable document provides both a personal and historical perspective on the life of a prominent royal family during a transformative period in European history.

The letter is written in German on laid paper, measuring approximately 5.75 x 7.5 inches, and carries the warmth and affection of a father writing to his daughter. It also discusses the deliberation around homeopathic treatment for the health of “Baby,” highlighting the Prince’s concern and attentiveness to his family’s well-being. Below is the full transcription of the letter, translated into English:

Full Transcription:

"My dear Marita,

I am writing you today only a few lines that unfortunately are not a real letter but rather a hurriedly written sign of life, so that you do not have to wait too long for an answer to your nice letter. It is because Charlie and Mashka have been here since Saturday, and every day until the day after tomorrow, I am going hunting with Charlie. Afterwards, I have to work on business letters, as there is much to do these days (Ohrdruf affairs, timber sales, Johanniter affairs, etc.), so that sometimes I don’t know how to manage it all.

Thank you very, very much for your nice letter, which, thank God, brought good news from you. We also thank Hans very much for his letter. How often do we remember the lovely time with the children and our last, if only short, meeting with you and Fritz.

Shortly after we settled here, I had to go for one day to Stuttgart and then for two days to the Standesherrentag (regular meeting of aristocracy dignitaries), while Mamy went to Nuremberg to the dentist. Unfortunately, she will have to see him once more on Saturday.

She is terribly worried about Baby’s condition and asks me to tell you that these days she could not find a quiet moment to write to you in more detail but sends you instead the letters from the nurses. She asks that you send them back as soon as you have read them, even if you don’t have time to enclose a letter of your own. It is, of course, a serious worry and should not be taken lightly. But I sincerely hope that there is no reason to be so greatly alarmed. Evidently, the doctors don’t have clear notions about this rather frequent ailment.

We are not against the idea of homeopathic treatment because Baby, too, seems to want it quite ardently and evidently believes in its success. Confidence is a very important factor for recovery, and she also must be spared any form of excitement, which she will certainly experience if confronted with refusal. Thus, we now can only express our hope that with homeopathy, things will improve, especially as the other doctors seem uncertain about what to advise. Whether Mamy will go to Zurich is not yet decided. Hopefully, this will comfort her a bit. She sends you and the children a thousand loves.

Please don’t be angry with me because of this scribble written in a hurry. I hope to have more time for writing soon. In the meantime, my table is totally covered with letters waiting to be answered. God be with you! With heartfelt greetings to Fritz and the children, be embraced by your truly loving

Papy."

Prince Ernst II was a prominent figure in German aristocracy, serving as Regent of the Duchy of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha from 1900 to 1905 and holding various roles in the German Empire. As the great-nephew of Queen Victoria and the husband of her granddaughter, Princess Alexandra of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, his life was intertwined with some of Europe’s most influential royal families. This letter, written during his retirement, reflects both his familial devotion and the ongoing responsibilities of a member of the aristocracy.

This rare and authentic document is a valuable artifact for historians, collectors, and enthusiasts of European royalty, offering a captivating perspective on the personal life and historical context of a noble family during the early 20th century. It is a remarkable addition to any collection of royal or historical memorabilia, providing a unique window into the enduring bonds of family amidst the demands of royalty.