 From her early years , Louise was a talented and intelligent child , and her artistic talents were quickly recognised . On his visit to Osborne House in 1863 , Hallam Tennyson , the son of the poet Alfred , Lord Tennyson , remarked that Louise could " draw beautifully " . Because of her royal rank , an artistic career was not considered . However , the Queen first allowed her to attend art school under the tutelage of the sculptor Mary Thornycroft , and later ( 1863 ) allowed her to study at the National Art Training School , South Kensington . Louise also became an able dancer , and Victoria wrote , after a dance , that Louise " danced the sword dance with more verve and accuracy than any of her sisters " . Her wit and intelligence made her a favourite with her father , with her inquisitive nature earning her the nickname " Little Miss Why " from other members of the royal family . 
