"Mourn, hapless Caledonia, mourn

Thy banish'd peace, thy laurels torn."

(Smollett.)]

* * * * *

253.--To John Murray.

Cheltenham, September 27, 1812.

Dear Sir,--I sent in no 'Address' whatever to the Committee; but out of

nearly one hundred (this is _confidential_), none have been deemed worth

acceptance; and in consequence of their _subsequent_ application to

_me_, I have written a prologue, which _has_ been received, and will be

spoken. The MS. is now in the hands of Lord Holland.

I write this merely to say, that (however it is received by the

audience) you will publish it in the next edition of _Childe Harold_;

and I only beg you at present to keep my name secret till you hear

further from me, and as soon as possible I wish you to have a correct

copy, to do with as you think proper.

I am, yours very truly, BYRON.

P.S.--I should wish a few copies printed off _before_, that the

Newspaper copies may be correct _after_ the _delivery_.

* * * * *

254.--To Lord Holland.

September 28, 1812.

Will this do better? The metaphor is more complete.

Till slowly ebb'd the {_lava of the_/spent volcanic} wave,

And blackening ashes mark'd the Muse's grave.

If not, we will say "burning wave," and instead of "burning clime," in

the line some couplets back, have "glowing."

Is Whitbread determined to castrate all my _cavalry_ lines [1]? I don't

see why t'other house should be spared; besides it is the public, who

ought to know better; and you recollect Johnson's was against similar

buffooneries of Rich's--but, certes, I am not Johnson. [2]

Instead of "effects," say "labours"--"degenerate" will do, will it? Mr.

Betty is no longer a babe, therefore the line cannot be personal. Will

this do?

Till ebb'd the lava of {_the burning_}/{that molten} wave [3]

with "glowing dome," in case you prefer "burning" added to this "wave"

metaphorical. The word "fiery pillar" was suggested by the "pillar of

fire" in the book of Exodus, which went before the Israelites through

the Red Sea. I once thought of saying "like Israel's pillar," and making

it a simile, but I did not know,--the great temptation was leaving the

epithet "fiery" for the supplementary wave. I want to work up that

passage, as it is the only new ground us prologuizers can go upon--

This is the place where, if a poet

Shined in description, he might show it.

If I part with the possibility of a future conflagration, we lessen the

compliment to Shakspeare. However, we will e'en mend it thus:

Yes, it shall be--the magic of that name,

That scorns the scythe of Time, the torch of Flame,

On the same spot, etc., etc.

There--the deuce is in it, if that is not an improvement to Whitbread's

content. Recollect, it is the "name," and not the "magic," that has a

noble contempt for those same weapons. If it were the "magic," my

metaphor would be somewhat of the maddest--so the "name" is the

antecedent. But, my dear Lord, your patience is not quite so

immortal--therefore, with many and sincere thanks, I am,

Yours ever most affectionately.

P.S.--I foresee there will be charges of partiality in the papers; but

you know I sent in no _Address_; and glad both you and I must be that I

did not, for, in that case, their plea had been plausible. I doubt the

Pit will be testy; but conscious innocence (a novel and pleasing

sensation) makes me bold.

[Footnote 1: The lines which were omitted by the Committee ran thus:

"'Nay, lower still, the Drama yet deplores

That late she deigned to crawl upon all-fours.

When Richard roars in Bosworth for a horse,

If you command, the steed must come in course.

If you decree, the Stage must condescend'

To soothe the sickly taste we dare not mend.

_Blame not our judgment should we acquiesce,

And gratify you more by showing less_.

Oh, since your Fiat stamps the Drama's laws,

Forbear to mock us with misplaced applause;

_That public praise be ne'er again disgraced,

From_ {brutes to man recall}/{_babes and brutes redeem} a nation's

taste_;

Then pride shall doubly nerve the actor's powers,

When Reason's voice is echoed back by ours."

The last couplet but one was altered in a subsequent copy, thus:

"'The past reproach let present scenes refute,

Nor shift from man to babe, from babe to brute'."

On February 18, 1811, at Covent Garden, a troop of horses were

introduced in 'Bluebeard'. For the manager, Juvenal's words, "_Lucri

bonus est odor ex re Qualibet_" ('Sat'. xiv. 204) may have been true;

but, as the dressing-room of the equine comedians was under the

orchestra, the stench on the first night was to the audience

intolerable. At the same theatre, April 29, 1811, the horses were again

brought on the stage in Lewis's 'Timour the Tartar'. At the same

theatre, on the following December 26, a live elephant appeared. The

novelty had, however, been anticipated in the Dublin Theatre during the

season of 1771-72 (Genest's 'English Stage', vol. viii. p. 287). At the

Haymarket, and Drury Lane, the introduction of live animals was

ridiculed. 'The Quadrupeds of Quedlinburgh' was given at the Haymarket,

July 26, 1811, as a burlesque on 'Timour the Tartar' and the horses. The

Prologue, by Colman the Younger, attacks the passion for German plays

and animal actors:

"Your taste, recover'd half from foreign quacks,

Takes airings, now, on English horses' backs;

While every modern bard may raise his name,

If not on _lasting praise_, on _stable fame_."

At the Lyceum, during the season 1811-12, 'Quadrupeds, or the

Manager's Last Kick', in which the tailors were mounted on asses and

mules, was given by the Drury Lane Company with success. It was this

introduction of animal performers which Byron wished to attack.]

[Footnote 2: The following are the lines in Johnson's 'Prologue' to

which Byron refers:

"Then crush'd by rules, and weaken'd as refined,

For years the power of Tragedy declined;

From bard to bard the frigid caution crept,

Till Declamation roared, whilst Passion slept.

Yet still did Virtue deign the stage to tread,

Philosophy remained though Nature fled.

But forced, at length, her ancient reign to quit,

She saw great Faustus lay the ghost of Wit;

Exulting Folly hailed the joyous Day,

And Pantomime and Song confirmed her sway.

But who the coming changes can presage,

And mark the future periods of the Stage?

Perhaps if skill could distant times explore,

New Behns, new Durfeys, yet remain in store;

Perhaps, where Lear has raved, and Hamlet died,

On flying cars new sorcerers may ride;

Perhaps (for who can guess th' effects of chance?)

Here Hunt may box, or Mahomet may dance."

John Rich (circ. 1682-1761) was the creator of pantomime in England,

which he introduced at Lincoln's Inn Fields in April, 1716, and in

which, under the stage name of Lun, he played the part of Harlequin. At

Lincoln's Inn Fields, January 29, 1728, he produced 'The Beggar's

Opera', which, after being refused at Drury Lane, made "Gay 'rich', and

Rich 'gay'." "Great Faustus" probably alludes to the war between the two

theatres, and the rival productions of 'Harlequin Dr. Faustus' at Drury

Lane in 1723, and of 'The Necromancer, or the History of Dr. Faustus' at

Lincoln's Inn Fields in December of the same year. On December 7, 1732,

Rich opened the new theatre at Covent Garden, of which he remained

manager till his death in 1761.]

[Footnote 3: The form of this couplet, as printed, is as follows:

"Till blackening ashes and lonely wall

Usurp'd the Muse's realm, and mark'd her fall."]

* * * * *

255.--To Lord Holland.

September 28.

I have altered the _middle_ couplet, so as I hope partly to do away with

W.'s objection. I do think, in the present state of the stage, it had

been unpardonable to pass over the horses and Miss Mudie [1], etc. As

Betty is no longer a boy, how can this be applied to him? He is now to

be judged as a man. If he acts still like a boy, the public will but be

more ashamed of their blunder. I have, you see, _now_ taken it for

granted that these things are reformed. I confess, I wish that part of

the _Address_ to stand; but if W. is inexorable, e'en let it go. I have

also new-cast the lines, and softened the hint of future combustion, and

sent them off this morning. Will you have the goodness to add, or

insert, the _approved_ alterations as they arrive? They "come like

shadows, so depart," [2] occupy me, and, I fear, disturb you.

Do not let Mr. W. put his _Address_ into Elliston's hands till you have

settled on these alterations. E. will think it too long:--much depends

on the speaking. I fear it will not bear much curtailing, without

_chasms_ in the sense.

It is certainly too long in the reading; but if Elliston exerts himself,

such a favourite with the public will not be thought tedious. _I_ should

think it so, if _he_ were not to speak it.

Yours ever, etc.

P.S.--On looking again, I doubt my idea of having obviated W.'s

objection. To the other House allusion is _non sequitur_--but I wish to

plead for this part, because the thing really is not to be passed over.

Many afterpieces of the Lyceum by the _same company_ have already

attacked this "Augean _Stable_"--and Johnson, in his prologue against

"Lunn" (the harlequin manager, Rich),--"Hunt,"--"Mahomet," etc. is

surely a fair precedent. [3]

[Footnote 1: For the horses, see p. 156, 'note' 1. Miss Mudie, another

"Phenomenon," with whom the Covent Garden manager hoped to rival the

success of Master Betty, was announced in the 'Morning Post', July 29,

1805, as the "Young Roscia of the Dublin Stage." She appeared at Covent

Garden, November 23, 1805, in the part of "Peggy" in 'The Country Girl',

Miss Brunton being "Alithea," C. Kemble "Harcourt," and Moody "Murray."

Being hissed by the audience, she walked with great composure to the

front of the stage, and said, as reported in the 'Morning Post'

(November 25, 1805)

"Ladies and gentlemen,--I know nothing I have done to offend you, and

has set ('sic') those who are sent here to hiss me; I will be

very much obliged to you to turn them out."

This unfortunate speech made matters worse; the audience refused to hear

her, and her part was finished by Miss Searle.

Miss Mudie was said to be only eight years old. But J. Kemble, being

asked if she were really such a child, answered, "'Child'! Why, sir,

when I was a very young actor in the York Company, that little creature

kept an inn at Tadcaster, and had a large family" (Clark Russell's

'Representative Actors', p. 363, 'note' 2). The 'Morning Post' (April 5,

1806) says that Miss Mudie afterwards joined a children's troupe in

Leicester Place, where, "though deservedly discountenanced at a great

theatre, she will, no doubt, prove an acquisition to the infant

establishment" (Ashton's 'Dawn of the XIXth Century in England', pp.

333-336).]

[Footnote 2: Macbeth, act iv. sc. 1.]

[Footnote 3: For Lun, or Rich, see p. 157, end of 'note' 1. Hunt, in the

notes to Johnson's 'Prologue' (Gilfillan's edition of Johnson's

'Poestical Works', p. 38), is said to be "a famous stage-boxer,

Mahomet, a rope-dancer."]

* * * * *

256.--To William Bankes.

Cheltenham, September 28, 1812.

MY DEAR BANKES,--When you point out to one how people can be intimate at

the distance of some seventy leagues, I will plead guilty to your

charge, and accept your farewell, but not _wittingly_, till you give me

some better reason than my silence, which merely proceeded from a notion

founded on your own declaration of _old_, that you hated writing and

receiving letters. Besides, how was I to find out a man of many

residences? If I had addressed you _now_, it had been to your borough,

where I must have conjectured you were amongst your constituents. So

now, in despite of Mr. N. and Lady W., you shall be as "much better" as

the Hexham post-office will allow me to make you. I do assure you I am

much indebted to you for thinking of me at all, and can't spare you even

from amongst the superabundance of friends with whom you suppose me

surrounded.

You heard that Newstead [1] is sold--the sum £140,000; sixty to remain

in mortgage on the estate for three years, paying interest, of course.

Rochdale is also likely to do well--so my worldly matters are mending. I

have been here some time drinking the waters, simply because there are

waters to drink, and they are very medicinal, and sufficiently

disgusting. In a few days I set out for Lord Jersey's [2], but return

here, where I am quite alone, go out very little, and enjoy in its

fullest extent the _dolce far niente_. What you are about I cannot

guess, even from your date;--not dauncing to the sound of the gitourney

in the Halls of the Lowthers? one of whom is here, ill, poor thing, with

a phthisic. I heard that you passed through here (at the sordid inn

where I first alighted) the very day before I arrived in these parts. We

had a very pleasant set here; at first the Jerseys, Melbournes [3],

Cowpers [4], and Hollands, but all gone; and the only persons I know are

the Rawdons [5] and Oxfords [6], with some later acquaintances of less

brilliant descent.

But I do not trouble them much; and as for your rooms and your

assemblies "they are not dreamed of in our philosophy!!"--Did you read

of a sad accident in the Wye t'other day [7]? A dozen drowned; and Mr.

Rossoe, a corpulent gentleman, preserved by a boat-hook or an eel-spear,

begged, when he heard his wife was saved--no--_lost_--to be thrown in

again!!--as if he could not have thrown himself in, had he wished it;

but this passes for a trait of sensibility. What strange beings men are,

in and out of the Wye!

I have to ask you a thousand pardons for not fulfilling some orders

before I left town; but if you knew all the cursed entanglements I _had_

to wade through, it would be unnecessary to beg your forgiveness.--When

will Parliament (the new one) meet [8]?--in sixty days, on account of

Ireland, I presume: the Irish election will demand a longer period for

completion than the constitutional allotment. Yours, of course, is safe,

and all your side of the question. Salamanca is the ministerial

watchword, and all will go well with you. I hope you will speak more

frequently, I am sure at least you _ought_, and it will be expected. I

see Portman means to stand again. Good night.

Ever yours most affectionately,

[Greek: Mpairon.]

[Footnote 1: Newstead was put up at Garraway's in the autumn of 1812;

but only £90,000 were bid, and the property was therefore withdrawn.

Subsequently it was privately sold to a Mr. Claughton, who found himself

unable to complete the purchase, and forfeited £25,000 on the contract.

Newstead was eventually sold, in November, 1817, to Colonel Wildman,

Byron's Harrow schoolfellow, for £94,500.]

[Footnote 2: For Lady Jersey, see p. 112, 'note' 1 [Footnote 1 of Letter

230]. The following passage, from Byron's 'Detached Thoughts', gives an

account of the party at Middleton:

"In 1812 at Middelton (Lord Jersey's), amongst a goodly company of

Lords, Ladies, and wits, etc., there was poor old Vice Leach, the

lawyer, attempting to play off the fine gentleman. His first

exhibition, an attempt on horseback, I think, to escort the women--God

knows where--in the month of November, ended in a fit of the

Lumbago--as Lord Ogleby says, 'a grievous enemy to Gallantry and

address'--and if he could have but heard Lady Jersey quizzing him (as

I did) next day for the _cause_ of his malady, I don't think that he

would have turned a 'Squire of dames' in a hurry again. He seemed to

me the greatest fool (in that line) I ever saw. This was the last I

saw of old Vice Leach, except in town, where he was creeping into

assemblies, and trying to look young--and gentlemanly.

"Erskine too!--Erskine was there--good but intolerable. He jested, he

talked, he did everything admirably, but then he 'would' be applauded

for the same thing twice over. He would read his own verses, his own

paragraphs, and tell his own story again and again; and then 'the

trial by Jury!!!'--I almost wished it abolished, for I sate next him

at dinner, and, as I had read his published speeches, there was no

occasion to repeat them to me. Chester (the fox-hunter), surnamed

'Cheek Chester,' and I sweated the Claret, being the only two who did

so. Cheek, who loves his bottle, and had no notion of meeting with a

'bonvivant' in a scribbler, in making my eulogy to somebody one

evening, summed it up in 'by G-d, he 'drinks like a Man'!'"]

[Footnote 3: Sir Peniston Lamb, created an Irish baron as Lord

Melbourne in 1770, an Irish viscount in 1780, and an English peer in

1815, married, in 1769, Elizabeth, only daughter of Sir Ralph Milbanke,

of Halnaby, Yorkshire, one of the cleverest and most beautiful women of

the day. Horace Walpole, writing to Mason, May 12, 1778, mentions her

when she was at the height of her beauty.

"On Tuesday," he says, "I supped, after the opera, at Mrs. Meynel's

with a set of the most fashionable company, which, take notice, I very

seldom do now, as I certainly am not of the age to mix often with

young people. Lady Melbourne was standing before the fire, and

adjusting her feathers in the glass. Says she, 'Lord, they say the

stocks will blow up! That will be very comical.'"

Greville ('Memoirs', ed. 1888, vol. vi. p. 248) associates her name with

that of Lord Egremont. Reynolds painted her with her eldest son in his

well-known picture 'Maternal Affection'. Her second son, William,

afterwards Prime Minister, used to say,

"Ah! my mother was a most remarkable woman; not merely clever and

engaging, but the most sagacious woman I ever knew"

('Memoirs of Viscount Melbourne', vol. i. p. 135). Lady Melbourne, whom

Byron spoke of as

"the best, the kindest, and ablest female I have ever known, old or

young,"

died in 1818, her husband in 1828. He thus described her to Lady

Blessington ('Conversations', p. 225):

"Lady M., who might have been my mother, excited an interest in my

feelings that few young women have been able to awaken. She was a

charming person--a sort of modern Aspasia, uniting the energy of a

man's mind with the delicacy and tenderness of a woman's. She wrote

and spoke admirably, because she felt admirably. Envy, malice, hatred,

or uncharitableness, found no place in her feelings. She had all of

philosophy, save its moroseness, and all of nature, save its defects

and general 'faiblesse'; or if some portion of 'faiblesse' attached

to her, it only served to render her more forbearing to the errors of

others. I have often thought, that, with a little more youth, Lady M.

might have turned my head, at all events she often turned my heart, by

bringing me back to mild feelings, when the demon passion was strong

within me. Her mind and heart were as fresh as if only sixteen summers

had flown over her, instead of four times that number."]

[Footnote 4: Peter, fifth Earl Cowper (1778-1837), married, in 1805

Emily Mary Lamb, daughter of Lord Melbourne; she married, secondly, in

1839, Lord Palmerston.]

[Footnote 5: Francis Rawdon, second Earl of Moira (1754-1826), created

Lord Rawdon (1783), and Marquis of Hastings (1817), married, in 1804,

the Countess of Loudoun.]

[Footnote 6: Edward Harley (1773-1848) succeeded his uncle as fifth Earl

of Oxford in 1790, and married, in 1794, Jane Elizabeth, daughter of the

Rev. James Scott, Vicar of Itchin, Hants. It is probably of Lady Oxford,

whose picture was painted by Hoppner, that Byron spoke to Lady

Blessington ('Conversations', p. 255),

"Even now the autumnal charms of Lady----are remembered by me with

more than admiration. She resembled a landscape by Claude Lorraine,

with a setting sun, her beauties enhanced by the knowledge that they

were shedding their last dying beams, which threw a radiance around. A

woman... is only grateful for her 'first' and 'last' conquest. The

first of poor dear Lady----'s was achieved before I entered on this

world of care; but the 'last', I do flatter myself, was reserved for

me, and a 'bonne bouche' it was."

The following passage certainly relates to Lady Oxford:

"There was a lady at that time," said Byron (Medwin's 'Conversations',

pp. 93, 94), "double my own age, the mother of several children who

were perfect angels, with whom I had formed a 'liaison' that continued

without interruption for eight months. The autumn of a beauty like

her's is preferable to the spring in others. She told me she was never

in love till she was thirty; and I thought myself so with her when she

was forty. I never felt a stronger passion; which she returned with

equal ardour.... She had been sacrificed, almost before she was a

woman, to one whose mind and body were equally contemptible in the

scale of creation; and on whom she bestowed a numerous family, to

which the law gave him the right to be called father. Strange as it

may seem, she gained (as all women do) an influence over me so strong,

that I had great difficulty in breaking with her, even when I knew she

had been inconstant to me: and once was on the point of going abroad

with her, and narrowly escaped this folly."

To be near the Oxfords at Eywood, in Herefordshire, Byron took Kinsham

Court, a dower-house of the family, where Bishop Harley died in 1788. At

one time, as is evident from his correspondence with Hanson, he was bent

on going abroad with Lady Oxford. In the end he only accompanied her to

Portsmouth. Of Lady Oxford, Uvedale Price wrote thus to Rogers (Clayden,

'Rogers and his Contemporaries', vol. i. pp. 397, 398):

"This is a melancholy subject"--[the death, by consumption of Lord

Aberdeen's children]--"and I must go to another. Poor Lady Oxford! I

had heard with great concern of her dangerous illness, but hoped she

might get through it, and was much, very much grieved to hear that it

had ended fatally. I had, as you know, lived a great deal with her

from the time she came into this country, immediately after her

marriage; but for some years past, since she went abroad, had scarcely

had any correspondence or intercourse with her, till I met her in town

last spring. I then saw her twice, and both times she seemed so

overjoyed to see an old friend, and expressed her joy so naturally and

cordially, that I felt no less overjoyed at seeing her after so long

an absence. She talked, with great satisfaction, of our meeting for a

longer time this next spring, little thinking of an eternal

separation. There could not, in all respects, be a more ill-matched

pair than herself and Lord Oxford, or a stronger instance of the cruel

sports of Venus, or, rather, of Hymen--

'Cui placet impares

Formas atque animos sub juga ahenea

Sævo mittere cum joco.'

"It has been said that she was, in some measure, forced into the

match. Had she been united to a man whom she had loved, esteemed, and

respected, she herself might have been generally respected and

esteemed, as well as loved; but in her situation, to keep clear of all

misconduct required a strong mind or a cold heart; perhaps both, and

she had neither. Her failings were in no small degree the effect of

circumstances; her amiable qualities all her own. There was something

about her, in spite of her errors, remarkably attaching, and that

something was not merely her beauty. 'Kindness has resistless charms,'

and she was full of affectionate kindness to those she loved, whether

as friends or as lovers. As a friend, I always found her the same,

never at all changeful or capricious. As I am not a very rigid

moralist, and am extremely open to kindness, 'I could have better

spared a better woman.'"]

[Footnote 7: An account of the accident is given in the Chronicle of the

'Annual Register', September 21, 1812. The party consisted of ten

people, three of whom were saved. Among those rescued was Mr.

Rothery--not Rossoe, as Byron gives it.]

[Footnote 8: The new Parliament met November 30, 1812. Wellington won

the battle of Salamanca on the previous July 22.]

* * * * *

257.--To Lord Holland.

September 29, 1812.

Shakespeare certainly ceased to reign in _one_ of his kingdoms, as

George III. did in America, and George IV. [1] may in Ireland? Now, we

have nothing to do out of our own realms, and when the monarchy was

gone, his majesty had but a barren sceptre. I have _cut away_, you will

see, and altered, but make it what you please; only I do implore, for my

_own_ gratification, one lash on those accursed quadrupeds--"a long

shot, Sir Lucius, if you love me." [2] I have altered "wave," etc., and

the "fire," and so forth for the timid.

Let me hear from you when convenient, and believe me, etc.

P.S.--Do let _that_ stand, and cut out elsewhere. I shall choke, if we

must overlook their damned menagerie.

[Footnote 1: Some objection, it appears, had been made to the passage,

"and Shakspeare _ceased to reign_."]

[Footnote 2: Bob Acres, in 'The Rivals' (act v. se. 3), says, "A long

shot, Sir Lucius, if you love me."]

* * * * *

258.--To Lord Holland.

September 30, 1812.

I send you the most I can make of it; for I am not so well as I was, and

find I "pull in resolution." [1]

I wish much to see you, and will be at Tetbury by twelve on Saturday;

and from thence I go on to Lord Jersey's. It is impossible not to allude

to the degraded state of the Stage, but I have lightened _it_, and

endeavoured to obviate your _other_ objections. There is a new couplet

for Sheridan, allusive to his Monody [2]. All the alterations I have

marked thus ],--as you will see by comparison with the other copy. I

have cudgelled my brains with the greatest willingness, and only wish I

had more time to have done better.

You will find a sort of clap-trap laudatory couplet inserted for the

quiet of the Committee [3], and I have added, towards the end, the

couplet you were pleased to _like_. The whole Address is seventy-three

lines, still perhaps too long; and, if shortened, you will save time,

but, I fear, a little of what I meant for sense also.

With myriads of thanks, I am ever, etc.

My sixteenth edition of respects to Lady H.--How she must laugh at all

this!

I wish Murray, my publisher, to print off some copies as soon as your

Lordship returns to town--it will ensure correctness in the papers

afterwards.

[Footnote 1: 'Macbeth', act v. sc. 5.]

[Footnote 2: Sheridan's 'Monody on Garrick'.]

[Footnote 3: The Committee of Selection consisted, says the 'Satirist'

(November 1, 1812, p. 395),

"of one peer and two commoners, one poet and two prosers, one Lord and

two Brewers; and the only points in which they coincided were in being

all three parliament men, all three politicians, all three in

opposition to the Government of the country. Their names, as we

understand, were Vassal Holland, Samuel Whitbread, and Harvey

Christian Combe."]

* * * * *

259.--To Lord Holland.

Far be from him that hour which asks in vain

Tears such as flow for Garrick in his strain;

_or_,

Far be that hour that vainly asks in turn

Such verse for him as {_crown'd his_/wept o'er} Garrick's urn.

September 30, 1812.

Will you choose between these added to the lines on Sheridan [1]?

I think they will wind up the panegyric, and agree with the train of

thought preceding them.

Now, one word as to the Committee--how could they resolve on a rough

copy of an _Address_ never sent in, unless you had been good enough to

retain in memory, or on paper, the thing they have been good enough to

adopt? By the by, the circumstances of the case should make the

Committee less _avidus gloriæ_, for all praise of them would look plaguy

suspicious. If necessary to be stated at all, the simple facts bear them

out. They surely had a right to act as they pleased. My sole object is

one which, I trust, my whole conduct has shown; viz. that I did nothing

insidious--sent in no Address _whatever_--but, when applied to, did my

best for them and myself; but, above all, that there was no undue

partiality, which will be what the rejected will endeavour to make out.

Fortunately--most fortunately--I sent in no lines on the occasion. For I

am sure that had they, in that case, been preferred, it would have been

asserted that _I_ was known, and owed the preference to private

friendship. This is what we shall probably have to encounter; but, if

once spoken and approved, we sha'n't be much embarrassed by their

brilliant conjectures; and, as to criticism, an _old_ author, like an

old bull, grows cooler (or ought) at every baiting.

The only thing would be to avoid a party on the night of

delivery--afterwards, the more the better, and the whole transaction

inevitably tends to a good deal of discussion. Murray tells me there are

myriads of ironical Addresses [2] ready--_some_, in imitation of what is

called _my style_. If they are as good as the 'Probationary Odes' [3],

or Hawkins's 'Pipe of Tobacco' [4], it will not be bad fun for the

imitated.

Ever, etc.

[Footnote 1: These added lines, as may be seen by reference to the

printed Address, were not retained.]

[Footnote 2: Probably the reference is to 'Rejected Addresses, or the

New Theatrum Poetarum' (1812), by James (1775-1839) and Horace

(1779-1849) Smith. "Cui Bono?" the parody on Byron, is the joint

composition of James and Horace. The manuscript was offered to Murray

for £20, but declined by him. It was afterwards published by John

Miller, of Bow Street, Covent Garden, who also published 'Horace in

London'.]

[Footnote 3: 'Probationary Odes', which generally forms, with 'Political

Eclogues', the third portion of the 'Rolliad', is really distinct from

that work. It is the result of an imaginary contest for the

laureate-ship. Each candidate was to deliver a "Probationary Birthday

Ode," and among the candidates are Dr. Pretyman, Archbishop Markham,

Thomas and Joseph Warton, Sir Cecil Wray, Sir Joseph Mawbey, Henry

Dundas, Lord Thurlow, and other Tories of the day. The plan of the work

is said to have been suggested by Joseph Richardson (1755-1803), who

wrote Odes iv. (Sir Richard Hill) and xix. (Lord Mountmorres).]

[Footnote 4: 'In Praise of a Pipe of Tobacco' (1736), written by Isaac

Hawkins Browne (1705-1760), was an ode in imitation of Swift, Pope,

Thomson, and other contemporary poets. Browne represented Wenlock in the

Whig interest in the Parliaments of 1744 and 1747. Johnson spoke of him

(Boswell, 'Johnson', April 5, 1775) as "one of the first wits of this

country," who "got into Parliament, and never opened his mouth."]

* * * * *

260.--To Lord Holland.

October 2, 1812.

A copy of this _still altered_ is sent by the post, but this will arrive

first. It must be "humbler"--"_yet aspiring_" does away the modesty,

and, after all, _truth is truth_. Besides, there is a puff direct

altered, to please your _plaguy renters_.

I shall be at Tetbury by 12 or 1--but send this for you to ponder over.

There are several little things marked thus / altered for your perusal.

I have dismounted the cavalry, and, I hope, arranged to your general

satisfaction.

Ever, etc.

At Tetbury by noon.--I hope, after it is sent, there will be no more

elisions. It is not now so long--73 lines--two less than allotted. I

will alter all Committee objections, but I hope you won't permit

_Elliston_ to have any _voice_ whatever,--except in speaking it.

* * * * *

261.--To John Murray.

Cheltenham, Oct. 12, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--I have a _very strong objection_ to the engraving of the

portrait [1], and request that it may, on no account, be prefixed; but

let _all_ the proofs be burnt, and the plate broken. I will be at the

expense which has been incurred; it is but fair that _I_ should, since I

cannot permit the publication. I beg, as a particular favour, that you

will lose no time in having this done, for which I have reasons that I

will state when I see you. Forgive all the trouble I have occasioned

you.

I have received no account of the reception of the _Address_ [2], but

see it is vituperated in the papers, which does not much embarrass an

_old author_. I leave it to your own judgment to add it, or not, to your

next edition when required. Pray comply _strictly_ with my wishes as to

the engraving, and believe me, etc.

Yours very truly,

BYRON.

P.S.--Favour me with an answer, as I shall not be easy until I hear that

the _proofs_, etc., are destroyed. I hear that the _Satirist_ has

reviewed _Childe Harold_ [3], in what manner I need not ask; but I wish

to know if the old personalities are revived? I have a better reason for

asking this than any that merely concerns myself; but in publications of

that kind, others, particularly female names, are sometimes introduced.

[Footnote 1: A miniature by Sanders. Besides this miniature, Sanders had

also painted a full-length of Byron, from which the portrait prefixed to

the quarto edition of Moore's 'Life' is engraved. In reference to the

latter picture, Byron says, in a note to Rogers,

"If you think the picture you saw at Murray's worth your acceptance,

it is yours; and you may put a glove or mask on it, if you like"

(Moore).]

[Footnote 2: On Saturday, October 10, Drury Lane reopened with 'The

Devil to Pay' and 'Hamlet'. Then, after the whole body of actors had

sung "God save the King" and "Rule, Britannia," Elliston delivered

Byron's address.]

[Footnote 3: 'The Satirist, a Monthly Meteor' (see 'Letters', vol. i. p.

321, 'note' 3 [Footnote 3 of Letter 159]), ran from October, 1807, to

1814. Up to 1812 it was the property of George Manners, who sold it in

that year to W. Jerdan. It reviewed 'Childe Harold' in October, 1812

(pp. 344-358); and again in December of the same year (pp. 542-550). In

the first of the two notices, the 'Satirist' quotes the "judgment of our

predecessors," that unless Byron "improved wonderfully, he could never

be a poet," and continues thus:

"It is with unaffected satisfaction we find that he has improved

wonderfully, and that he is a poet. Indeed, when we consider the

comparatively short interval which has elapsed, and contrast the

character of his recent with that of his early work, we confess

ourselves astonished at the intellectual progress which Lord Byron has

made, and are happy to hold him up as another example of the

extraordinary effects of study and cultivation, 'even' on minds

apparently of the most unpromising description."

The reviewer severely condemns the morbid bitterness of the poet's

thought and feeling, but yet affirms that the poems

"abound with beautiful imagery, clothed in a diction free, forcible,

and various. 'Childe Harold', although avowedly a fragment, contains

many fragments which would do honour to any poet, of any period, in

any country."]

* * * * *

262.--To Lord Holland.

Cheltenham, Oct. 14, 1812.

MY DEAR LORD,--I perceive that the papers, yea, even Perry's [1], are

somewhat ruffled at the injudicious preference of the Committee. My

friend Perry has, indeed, 'et tu, Brute'-d me rather scurvily, for which

I will send him, for the 'Morning Chronicle', the next epigram I

scribble, as a token of my full forgiveness.

Do the Committee mean to enter into no explanation of their proceedings?

You must see there is a leaning towards a charge of partiality. You

will, at least, acquit me of any great anxiety to push myself before so

many elder and better anonymous, to whom the twenty guineas (which I

take to be about two thousand pounds 'Bank' currency) and the honour

would have been equally welcome. "Honour," I see, "hath skill in

paragraph-writing."

I wish to know how it went off at the second reading, and whether any

one has had the grace to give it a glance of approbation. I have seen no

paper but Perry's and two Sunday ones. Perry is severe, and the others

silent. If, however, you and your Committee are not now dissatisfied

with your own judgments, I shall not much embarrass myself about the

brilliant remarks of the journals. My own opinion upon it is what it

always was, perhaps pretty near that of the public.

Believe me, my dear Lord, etc., etc.

P.S.--My best respects to Lady H., whose smiles will be very

consolatory, even at this distance.

[Footnote 1: James Perry (1756-1821) purchased, in 1789, the 'Morning

Chronicle', originally established by Woodfall in 1769. In Perry's hands

the paper became the leading organ of the Whigs. He was the first editor

to introduce a succession of parliamentary reporters. He gathered round

him a remarkable staff of contributors, including Ricardo, Sir James

Mackintosh, Porson (who married his sister), Charles Lamb, Sheridan,

Coleridge, Hazlitt, Lord Campbell, Moore, Campbell, Byron, and Burns.

The 'Morning Chronicle' (October 12, 1812) says:

"Mr. Elliston then came forward and delivered the following 'Prize'

Address. We cannot boast of the eloquence of the delivery. It was

neither gracefully nor correctly recited. The merits of the production

itself we submit to the criticism of our readers. We cannot suppose

that it was selected as the most poetical composition of all the

scores that were submitted to the Committee. But, perhaps by its

tenor, by its allusions to the fire, to Garrick, to Siddons, and to

Sheridan, it was thought most applicable to the occasion,

notwithstanding its being in parts unmusical, and in general tame."

Again (October 14), in a notice of 'Rejected Addresses', the 'Morning

Chronicle' returns to the subject:

"A wag has already published a small volume of 'Addresses rejected',

in which, with admirable wit, all the poets of the day are assembled,

contesting for the Prize Address at Drury Lane. And certainly he has

assigned to the pen of Lord B. a superior 'poem' to that which has

gained the prize."

The Address was also severely handled in 'A Critique on the Address

written by Lord Byron, which was Spoken at the opening of the New

Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, October' 10, 1812. By Lord--------(London,

no date). The author is "astonished at the glaring faults and general

insipidity" of the address, and, after a detailed criticism, concludes

that "public indignation" will sympathize with the rejected poets, and

"pursue the rival patrons and the rival bard."

Rogers, writing to Moore, October 22, 1812 ('Memoirs, etc., of Thomas

Moore', vol. viii. p. 123), says,

"Poor Byron! what I hear and read of his prologue makes me very angry.

Of such value is public favour! So a man is to be tried by a copy of

verses thrown off perhaps at hazard, and 'invitâ Minervâ!'"]

* * * * *

263.--To John Hanson.

Cheltenham, Octr. 18th, 1812.

Dear Sir,--With perfect confidence in you I sign the note; but is not

Claughton's delay very strange? let us take care what we are about. I

answered his letter, which I enclose to you, very _cautiously;_ the

wines and China, etc., I will not demur much upon; but the _vase_ and

cup (not the _skull cup_) and some little coffee things brought from the

East, or made for the purpose of containing relics brought from thence,

I will not part with, and if he refuses to ratify, I will take such

steps as the Law will allow on the form of the contract for compelling

him to ratify it.

Pray write. I am invited to Lord O.'s and Lord H.'s; but if you wish

very much to meet me I can come to town.

I suppose the tythe purchase will be made in my name. What is to be done

with Deardon? [1]

Mrs. M[assingberd] [2] is dead, and I would wish something settled for

the Daughter who is still responsible. Will you give a glance into that

business, and if possible first settle something about the Annuities.

I shall perhaps draw within a £100 next week, but I will delay for your

answer on C.'s business.

Ever yours, sincerely and affectionately,

BYRON.

My love to all the family.

I wish to do something for young Rushton, if practicable at _Rochdale_;

if not, think of some situation where he might occupy himself to avoid

Idleness, in the mean time.

[Footnote 1: Deardon was the lessee of the Rochdale coal-pits.

"When Mr. France was here," writes Mrs. Byron to Hanson, July 13, 1811

(Kölbing's 'Englische Studien', vol. xxv. p. I53), "he told me there

had been an injunction procured to prevent Deardin from working the

Coal Pits that was in dispute between Lord Byron and him, but since

France was here, there has been a Man from Lancashire who says they

are worked by Deardin the same as ever. I also heard that the Person

you sent down to take an account of the Coals was bribed by Deardin,

and did not give an account of half of what was got."]

[Footnote 2: For Mrs. Massingberd, see 'Letters', vol. i. p. 100, at end

of 'note' 3 [Footnote 1 of Letter 52]. Byron's pecuniary transactions,

though not unimportant in their influence on his career, are difficult

to unravel. The following statement, in his own handwriting, with regard

to the Annuities was apparently prepared for some legal proceedings, and

is dated January 16, 1812:

"Lord Byron, to the best of his knowledge and recollection, in Dec.,

1805--January, 1806 applied to King, in consequence of an

advertisement in the papers, who acquainted Lord Byron that his

minority prevented all money transactions without the security of

competent persons. Through Mr. K. he became acquainted with Mr.

Dellevelly, another of the tribe of Israel, and subsequently with a

Mr. Howard of Golden Square.

"After many delays, during which Lord B. had interviews with Howard,

once, he thinks, in Golden Square, but more frequently in Piccadilly,

Mrs. M[assingberd] agreed to become security jointly with her

daughter. Lord B. knows Howard's person perfectly well, has not seen

him subsequent to the transaction, but recollects Howard's mentioning

to him that he, Lord B., was acting imprudently, stating that he made

it a rule to advise young men against such proceedings. Lord B.

recollects, on the day on which the money was paid, that he remained

in the next room till the papers were signed, Mrs. M[assingberd]

having stated that the parties wished him to be kept out of sight

during the business, and wished to avoid even mentioning his name.

Mrs. M[assingberd] deducted the interest for two years and a half, and

£100 for Howard's papers."

Two other Annuities were effected, in both of which Mrs. Massingberd

figured as a security, and in one the manager of Dorant's Hotel. It was

the interest on these minority loans which crippled Byron. Two were

still unpaid in 1817.]

* * * * *

264.--To John Murray.

Cheltenham, Oct. 18, 1812,

Dear Sir,--Will you have the goodness to get this Parody of a peculiar

kind [1] (for all the first lines are _Busby's_ entire), inserted in

several of the papers (_correctly_--and copied _correctly; my hand_ is

difficult)--particularly the 'Morning Chronicle'? Tell Mr. Perry I

forgive him all he has said, and may say against _my address_, but he

will allow me to deal with the Doctor--(_audi alteram partem_)--and not

_betray_ me. I cannot think what has befallen Mr. Perry, for of yore we

were very good friends;--but no matter, only get this inserted.

I have a poem on Waltzing for _you_, of which I make _you_ a present;

but it must be anonymous. It is in the old style of 'English Bards, and

Scotch Reviewers'.

Ever yours,

BYRON.

P.S.--With the next edition of 'Childe Harold' you may print the first

fifty or a hundred opening lines of the 'Curse of Minerva' [2] down to

the couplet beginning

Mortal ('twas thus she spake), etc.

Of course, the moment the Satire begins, there you will stop, and the

opening is the best part.

[Footnote 1: The 'Parenthetical Address', "By Dr. Plagiary," is a parody

by Byron of Dr, Busby's 'Address', the original of which will be found

in the 'Genuine Rejected Addresses', as well as parodied in 'Rejected

Addresses' ("Architectural Atoms"). On October 14 young Busby forced his

way on to the stage of Drury Lane, attempted to recite his father's

address, and was taken into custody. On the next night, Dr. Busby,

speaking from one of the boxes, obtained a hearing for his son, who

could not, however, make his voice heard in the theatre. Then another

"rejected" author tried to recite his composition, but was hooted down.

Order was restored by Raymond reminding the audience that the

Chamberlain's licence was necessary for all stage speeches. To the

failure of the younger Busby (himself a competitor and the author of an

"Unalogue" of fifty-six lines) to make himself heard, Byron alludes in

the stage direction to the 'Parenthetical Address'--"to be spoken in an

inarticulate voice by Master P." The 'Parenthetical Address' appeared

in the 'Morning Chronicle' for October 23, 1812. In the same issue was

printed a long statement by Dr. Busby, in which, after paying a

compliment to Byron's "poetical genius," he insisted that the Committee

of Drury Lane had broken faith by not choosing one of the addresses sent

in by competitors. (See references to Dr. Busby in 'Poems', vol. i. pp.

481 and 485, 'note' 1.) Dr. Thomas Busby (1755-1838) composed the music

for Holcroft's 'Tale of Mystery', the first musical melodrama produced

on the English stage (Covent Garden, November 13, 1802). He was for some

time assistant editor of the 'Morning Post', and Parliamentary reporter

for the 'London Courant'; wrote on musical subjects, taught languages

and music, and translated Lucretius into rhymed verse (1813).]

[Footnote 2: 'The Curse of Minerva,' written at Athens, in 1811, was not

published as a whole till 1828. But the first fifty-four lines appeared

in Canto III. of 'The Corsair' (1814). (See 'The Curse of Minerva:'

Introductory note, 'Poems,' 1898, vol. i. p. 453.)]

* * * * *

265.--To Robert Rushton.

Cheltenham, Oct. 18th, 1812.

Robert,--I hope you continue as much as possible to apply yourself to

_Accounts_ and Land-Measurement, etc. Whatever change may take place

about Newstead, there will be none as to you and Mr. Murray. It is

intended to place you in a situation in Rochdale for which your

pursuance of the Studies I recommend will best fit you. Let me hear from

you; is your health improved since I was last at the Abbey? In the mean

time, if any accident occur to me, you are provided for in my will, and

if not, you will always find in your Master a sincere Friend.

B.

* * * * *

266.--To John Murray.

Oct. 19, 1812.

Dear Sir,--Many thanks, but I _must_ pay the 'damage', and will thank

you to tell me the amount for the engraving. I think the 'Rejected

Addresses' by far the best thing of the kind since the 'Rolliad', and

wish _you_ had published them. Tell the author "I forgive him, were be

twenty times our satirist;" and think his imitations not at all inferior

to the famous ones of Hawkins Browne. He must be a man of very lively

wit, and much less scurrilous than Wits often are: altogether, I very

much admire the performance, and wish it all success. The 'Satirist' has

taken a _new_ tone, as you will see: we have now, I think, finished with

'C. H.'s' critics. I have in 'hand' a 'Satire' on 'Waltzing', which you

must publish anonymously: it is not long, not quite 200 lines, but will

make a very small boarded pamphlet. In a few days you shall have it.

Ever yours,

BYRON.

P.S.--The editor of the 'Satirist' almost ought to be thanked for his

revocation; it is done handsomely, after five years' warfare.

* * * * *

267.--To John Hanson.

Octr. 22d, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--I enclose you Mr. C[laughton]'s letter, from which you

yourself will judge of my own. I insisted on the _contract_, and said,

_if_ I gave up the wines, etc., it would be as a _gift_. He admits the

validity, as you perceive. I told him that _I_ wished to avoid raising

difficulties and in all respects to fulfil the bargain.

I am going to Lord Oxford's, _Eywood, Presteigne, Hereford_. In my way

back I will take Farleigh, if you are not returned to London before.

I wish to take a small _house_ for the winter any where not remote from

St. James's. Will you arrange this for me?--and think of young Rushton,

whom I promised to provide for, and must begin to think of it; he might

be a _sub_-Tythe _collector_, or a Bailiff to our agent at Rochdale, or

many other things. He has had a fair education and was well disposed; at

all events, he must no longer remain in idleness.

Let the Mule be sold and the dogs.

Pray let me hear from you when convenient, and

Believe me, ever yours truly,

BYRON.

My best remembrances to all.

I shall draw for _fifty_ this week.

Is anything done about Miss M[assingberd]? You have not mentioned her.

* * * * *

268.--To John Murray.

Oct. 23, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--Thanks, as usual. You go on boldly; but have a care of

_glutting_ the public, who have by this time had enough of 'C. H.'

'Waltz' shall be prepared. It is rather above 200 lines, with an

introductory letter to the Publisher. I think of publishing, with 'C.

H.', the opening lines of the '_Curse of Minerva_' as far as the first

speech of Pallas,--because some of the readers like that part better

than any I have ever written; and as it contains nothing to affect the

subject of the subsequent portion, it will find a place as a

_descriptive fragment_.

The _plate_ is _broken_? between ourselves, it was unlike the picture;

and besides, upon the whole, the frontispiece of an author's visage is

but a paltry exhibition. At all events, _this_ would have been no

recommendation to the book. I am sure Sanders would not have _survived_

the engraving. By the by, the _picture_ may remain with _you_ or _him_

(which you please), till my return. The _one_ of two remaining copies is

at your service till I can give you a _better_; the other must be

_burned peremptorily_. Again, do not forget that I have an account with

you, and _that_ this is _included_. I give you too much TROUBLE to allow

you to incur EXPENSE also.

You best know how far this "Address Riot" will affect the future sale of

'C. H.' I like the volume of "_rejected A._" better and better. The

other parody which Perry has received is _mine_ also (I believe). It is

Dr. Busby's speech versified. You are removing to Albemarle Street, I

find, and I rejoice that we shall be nearer neighbours. I am going to

Lord Oxford's, but letters here will be forwarded. When at leisure, all

communications from you will be willingly received by the humblest of

your scribes. Did Mr. Ward write the review of H. Tooke's Life? [1] It

is excellent.

Yours ever,

B.

[Footnote 1: See 'Quarterly Review', vol. vii. p. 313. The article

alluded to was written by the Hon. J. W. Ward, afterwards Earl of

Dudley.]

* * * * *

269.--To John Hanson.

Eywood, Presteign, Hereford, Octr. 31st, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--The inclosed bill [1] will convince you how anxious I must be

for the payment of Claughton's first instalment; though it has been sent

in without due notice, I cannot blame Mr. Davies who must feel very

anxious to get rid of the business. Press C., and let me have an answer

whenever you can to this Place.

Yours ever,

B.

P.S.--I am at _Lord Oxford's_, Eywood, as above.

[Footnote 1: The bill was Byron's for £1500, and the enclosure ran as

follows:

"Lord Byron.

"A Bill for £1500, drawn by Scrope B. Davies, lies due at Sir _James

Esdaile_ and Co's., No. 21, _Lombard-Street_.

"All Drafts intended for the Payment of Bills, to be brought before

Half past Three o'Clock.

"Please to call between 3 and Five o'Clock."

The same day Byron writes a second letter to Hanson:

"Do pray press Claughton, as Mr. D.'s business must be settled at all

events. I send you his letter, and I am more uncomfortable than I can

possibly express myself upon the subject. Pray write."]

* * * * *

270.--To John Hanson.

Presteign, Novr. 8th, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--Not being able (and to-day being Sunday also) to procure a

stamp, as the Post town is very remote, I must request this letter to be

considered as an Order for paying fifteen hundred pounds to S.B. Davies,

Esq., and the same sum to your own account for the Tythe purchase. Mr.

D.'s receipt can be indorsed on the bond.

I shall be in London the latter end of the week. I set out from this

place on the 12th. As to Mr. C., the Law must decide between us; I shall

abide by the Contract. Your answer will not reach me in time, so do not

write to me while here.

Pray let Mr. D. be paid and you also--come what may.[1] I always foresaw

that C. would _shirk_; but he did it with his eyes open. What question

can arise as to the title? has it never been examined? I never heard of

it before, and surely, in all our law suits, that question must have

come to issue.

I hope we shall meet in town. I will wait on you the moment I arrive.

My best respects to your family; believe me, Ever yours sincerely,

BYRON.

[Footnote 1: Byron was prepared to make some sacrifices to extricate

himself from debt, or go abroad. The following letter to Hanson is dated

December 10, 1812:

"DEAR SIR,--I have to request that you will pay the bearer (my Groom)

the wages due to him (12 pds. 10s.), and dismiss him immediately, as I

have given up my horses, and place the sum to my account.

"Ever yours,

"BYRON."

Four days later, December 14, 1812, he writes again to Hanson:

"DEAR SIR,--I request your attention to the enclosed. See what can be

done with Howard, and urge Claughton. If this kind of thing continues,

I must quit a country which my debts render uninhabitable,

notwithstanding every sacrifice on my part.

"Yours ever,

"B."]

* * * * *

271.--To John Hanson.

Presteign, Novr. 16th, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--The floods having rendered the road impassable, I am detained

here, but trust by the latter end of the week to proceed to Cheltenham,

where I shall expect a letter from you to tell me if I am wanted in

town.

I shall not be in time for the Prince's address; but I wish you to write

down for my _Parliamentary_ robes (Mrs. Chaworth had them, at least Mrs.

Clarke the mother); though I rather think those were the Coronation and

not the House robes. At least enquire.

I hope Mr. D. is paid; and, if Mr. C. demurs, we must bring an action

according to Contract.

I trust you are well, and well doing in my behalf and your own.

Ever yours most sincerely,

B.

* * * * *

272.--To John Murray.

Cheltenham, November 22, 1812.

DEAR SIR,--On my return here from Lord Oxford's, I found your obliging

note, and will thank you to retain the letters, and any other subsequent

ones to the same address, till I arrive in town to claim them, which

will probably be in a few days. I have in charge a curious and very long

MS. poem, written by Lord Brooke (the _friend_ of Sir _Philip Sidney_),

which I wish to submit to the inspection of Mr. Gifford, with the

following queries:--first, whether it has ever been published, and

secondly (if not), whether it is worth publication? It is from Lord

Oxford's Library, and must have escaped or been overlooked amongst the

MSS. of the Harleian Miscellany. The writing is Lord Brooke's, except a

different hand towards the close. It is very long, and in the six-line

stanza. It is not for me to hazard an opinion upon its merits; but I

would take the Liberty, if not too troublesome, to submit it to Mr.

Gifford's judgment, which, from his excellent edition of Massinger, I

should conceive to be as decisive on the writings of that age as on

those of our own.

Now for a less agreeable and important topic.--How came Mr. Mac-Somebody

[1], without consulting you or me, to prefix the Address to his volume

of "_dejected addresses?"_ Is not this somewhat larcenous? I think the

ceremony of leave might have been asked, though I have no objection to

the thing itself; and leave the "hundred and eleven" to tire themselves

with "base comparisons." I should think the ingenuous public tolerably

sick of the subject, and, except the parodies, I have not interfered,

nor shall; indeed I did not know that Dr. Busby had published his

apologetical letter and postscript [2], or I should have recalled them.

But, I confess, I looked upon his conduct in a different light before

its appearance. I see some mountebank has taken Alderman Birch's name

[3] to vituperate the Doctor; he had much better have pilfered his

pastry, which I should imagine the more valuable ingredient--at least

for a Puff.--Pray secure me a copy of Woodfall's new 'Junius' [4],

and believe me,

Dear Sir, yours very sincerely,

B.

[Footnote 1: B. McMillan]

[Footnote 2: This probably refers to Busby's apologetic letter in the

'Morning Chronicle' for October 23, 1812.]

[Footnote 3: Alderman Birch was a pastry-cook in Cornhill.]

[Footnote 4: In the Catalogue of Byron's books, sold April 5, 1816,

appear two copies of 'Junius':

"Junius's Letters, 2 vol. _russia_, 1806."

"Junius's Letters, by Woodfall, 3 vol., _Large Paper_, 1812."]

* * * * *

273.--To William Bankes.

December 26, [1812].

The multitude of your recommendations has already superseded my humble

endeavours to be of use to you; and, indeed, most of my principal

friends are returned, Leake from Joannina, Canning and Adair from the

city of the Faithful, and at Smyrna no letter is necessary, as the

consuls are always willing to do every thing for personages of

respectability. I have sent you _three_; one to Gibraltar, which, though

of no great necessity, will, perhaps, put you on a more intimate footing

with a very pleasant family there. You will very soon find out that a

man of any consequence has very little occasion for any letters but to

ministers and bankers, and of them we have already plenty, I will be

sworn.

It is by no means improbable that I shall go in the spring; and if you

will fix any place of rendezvous about August, I will _write_ or _join_

you.--When in Albania, I wish you would inquire after Dervise Tahiri and

Vascillie (or Bazil), and make my respects to the viziers, both there

and in the Morea. If you mention my name to Suleyman of Thebes, I think

it will not hurt you; if I had my dragoman, or wrote Turkish, I could

have given you letters of _real service;_ but to the English they are

hardly requisite, and the Greeks themselves can be of little advantage.

Liston [1] you know already, and I do not, as he was not then minister.

Mind you visit Ephesus and the Troad, and let me hear from you when you

please. I believe G. Forresti is now at Yanina; but if not, whoever is

there will be too happy to assist you. Be particular about _firmauns;_

never allow yourself to be bullied, for you are better protected in

Turkey than any where; trust not the Greeks; and take some

knicknackeries for _presents--watches, pistols,_ etc., etc., to the Beys

and Pachas. If you find one Demetrius, at Athens or elsewhere, I can

recommend him as a good dragoman. I hope to join you, however; but you

will find swarms of English now in the Levant.

Believe me, etc.

[Footnote 1: Robert Liston, afterwards Sir Robert Liston (1742-1836),

succeeded Adair as Ambassador at Constantinople in 1811.]

* * * * *

274.--To John Murray.

Eywood, Presteign, January 8, 1813.

Dear Sir,--You have been imposed upon by a letter forged in my name to

obtain the picture left in your possession. This I know by the

confession of the culprit [1] and as she is a woman (and of rank), with

whom I have unfortunately been too much connected, you will for the

present say very little about it; but if you have the letter _retain_

it--write to me the particulars. You will also be more cautious in

future, and not allow anything of mine to pass from your hands without

my _Seal_ as well as Signature.

I have not been in town, nor have written to you since I left it. So I

presume the forgery was a skilful performance.--I shall endeavour to get

back the picture by fair means, if possible.

Yours ever,

BYRON.

P.S.--Keep the letter if you have it. I did not receive your parcel, and

it is now too late to send it on, as I shall be in town on the 17th. The

_delinquent_ is one of the first families in this kingdom; but, as

Dogberry says, this is "flat burglary." [2]

Favour me with an answer. I hear I am scolded in the 'Quarterly'; but

you and it are already forgiven. I suppose that made you bashful about

sending it.

[Footnote 1: The culprit was Lady Caroline Lamb, who imitated Byron's

handwriting with remarkable skill.]

[Footnote 2: 'Much Ado about Nothing', act iv. sc. 2.]

* * * * *

275.--To Francis Hodgson.

February 3, 1813.

My Dear Hodgson,--I will join you in any bond for the money you require,

be it that or a larger sum. With regard to security, as Newstead is in a

sort of abeyance between sale and purchase, and my Lancashire property

very unsettled, I do not know how far I can give more than personal

security, but what I can I will. At any rate you can try, and as the sum

is not very considerable, the chances are favourable. I hear nothing of

my own concerns, but expect a letter daily. Let me hear from you where

you are and will be this month. I am a great admirer of the 'R. A.'

['Rejected Addresses'], though I have had so great a share in the cause

of their publication, and I like the 'C. H.' ['Childe Harold'] imitation

one of the best. [1] Lady Oxford has heard me talk much of you as a

relative of the Cokes, etc., and desires me to say she would be happy to

have the pleasure of your acquaintance. You must come and see me at

K[insham]. I am sure you would like _all_ here if you knew them.

The "Agnus" is furious. You can have no idea of the horrible and absurd

things she has said and done [2] since (really from the best motives) I

withdrew my homage. "Great pleasure" is, certes, my object, but "_why

brief_, Mr. Wild?" [3] I cannot answer for the future, but the past is

pretty secure; and in it I can number the last two months as worthy of

the gods in 'Lucretius'. I cannot review in the "_Monthly;_" in fact I

can just now do nothing, at least with a pen; and I really think the

days of Authorship are over with me altogether. I hear and rejoice in

Eland's and Merivale's intentions [4].

Murray has grown great, and has got him new premises in the fashionable

part of the town [5].

We live here so shut out of the _monde_ that I have nothing of general

import to communicate, and fill this up with a "happy new year," and

drink to you and Drury.

Ever yours, dear H., B.

I have no intention of continuing "_Childe Harold._" There are a few

additions in the "body of the book" of description, which will merely

add to the number of pages in the next edition. I have taken Kinsham

Court. The business of last summer I broke off [6], and now the

amusement of the gentle fair is writing letters literally threatening my

life, and much in the style of "Miss Mathews" in "_Amelia_," or "Lucy"

in the "_Beggar's Opera_." Such is the reward of restoring a woman to

her family, who are treating her with the greatest kindness, and with

whom I am on good terms. I am still in _palatia Circes_, and, being no

Ulysses, cannot tell into what animal I may be converted; as you are

aware of the turn of both parties, your conjectures will be very

correct, I daresay, and, seriously, I am very much _attached_. She has

had her share of the denunciations of the brilliant Phryne, and regards

them as much as I do. I hope you will visit me at K. which will not be

ready before spring, and I am very sure you would like my neighbours if

you knew them. If you come down now to Kington [7], pray come and see me.

[Footnote 1:

"Byron often talks of the authors of the 'Rejected Addresses', and

always in terms of unqualified praise. He says that the imitations,

unlike all other imitations, are full of genius. 'Parodies,' he said,

'always give a bad impression of the original, but in the 'Rejected

Addresses' the reverse was the fact;' and he quoted the second and

third stanzas, in imitation of himself, as admirable, and just what he

could have wished to write on a similar subject"

(Lady Blessington's 'Conversations', p. 134).]

[Footnote 2:

"The Bessboroughs," writes Lady H. Leveson Gower to Lady G. Morpeth,

September 12, 1812 ('Letters of Harriet, Countess Granville', vol. i.

pp. 40, 41), "have been unpacked about a couple of hours. My aunt

looks stout and well, but poor Caroline most terribly the contrary.

She is worn to the bone, as pale as death and her eyes starting out of

her head. She seems indeed in a sad way, alternately in tearing

spirits and in tears. I hate her character, her feelings, and herself

when I am away from her, but she interests me when I am with her, and

to see her poor careworn face is dismal, in spite of reason and

speculation upon her extraordinary conduct. She appears to me in a

state very (little) short of insanity, and my aunt describes it as at

times having been decidedly so."]

[Footnote 3: The context and allusion seem to require another word than

"_brief_;" but the sentence is written as printed. In Fielding's 'Life

of Mr. Jonathan Wild' (Bk. III. chap. viii.) and in

"a dialogue matrimonial, which passed between Jonathan Wild, Esquire,

and Laetitia his wife" ('née' Laetitia Snap), "Laetitia asks, 'But

pray, Mr. Wild, why b--ch? Why did you suffer such a word to escape

you?'"]

[Footnote 4: The republication of the 'Anthology']

[Footnote 5: Murray's removal from 32, Fleet Street, to 50, Albemaile

Street.]

[Footnote 6: With Lady Caroline Lamb.]

[Footnote 7: Near Lower Moor, the residence of Hodgson's relatives, the

Cokes.]

* * * * *

276.--To John Hanson.

3d Feb'y, 1813.

Dear Sir,--Will you forward the inclosed immediately to Corbet, whose

address I do not exactly remember? It is of consequence, relative to a

foolish woman [1] I never saw, who fancies I want to marry her.

Yours ever, B.

P.S.--I wish you would see Corbet and talk to him about it, for she

plagues my soul out with her damned letters.

[Footnote 1: The lady in question seems to have been Lady Falkland (see

'Letters', vol. 1, p. 216, 'note' 1 [Footnote 1 of Letter 117], and the

letter dated March 5, 1813 [Letter 281 in this volume.])]

* * * * *

277.--To John Murray.

February 20, 1813.

Dear Sir,--In "_Horace in London_" [1] I perceive some stanzas on Lord

Elgin in which (waving the kind compliment to myself [2]) I heartily

concur. I wish I had the pleasure of Mr. Smith's acquaintance, as I

could communicate the curious anecdote you read in Mr. T.'s letter. If

he would like it, he can have the _substance_ for his second Edition; if

not, I shall add it to _our_ next, though I think we already have enough

of Lord Elgin.

What I have read of this work seems admirably done. My praise, however,

is not much worth the Author's having; but you may thank him in my name

for _his_. The idea is new--we have excellent imitations of the Satires,

etc. by Pope; but I remember but one imitative Ode in his works, and

_none_ any where else. I can hardly suppose that _they_ have lost any

fame by the fate of the Farce [3]; but even should this be the case, the

present publication will again place them on their pinnacle.

Yours truly,

B.

[Footnote 1: 'Horace in London; consisting of Imitations of the First

Two Books of the Odes of Horace', by James and Horace Smith (1813), was

a collection of imitations, the best of which are by James Smith,

republished from Hill's 'Monthly Mirror', where they originally

appeared.]

[Footnote 2: In Book 1. ode xv. of 'Horace in London', entitled "The

Parthenon," Minerva thus speaks:

"All who behold my mutilated pile

Shall brand its ravager with classic rage,

And soon a titled bard from Britain's Isle,

Thy country's praise and suffrage shall engage,

And fire with Athens' wrongs an angry age!"

[Footnote 3: Horace Smith's unsuccessful comedy, 'First Impressions; or,

Trade in the West', was performed at Drury Lane. The prologue, spoken by

Powell, beseeches a judgment from the audience:

"Such as mild Justice might herself dispense,

To _Inexperience and a First Offence_."]

* * * * *

278.--To Robert Rushton.

4, Bennet Street, St. James's, Feb. 24th, 1813.

I feel rather surprised to have heard nothing from you or your father in

answer to Fletcher's last letter. I wish to know whether you intend

taking a share in a farm with your brother, or prefer to wait for some

other situation in Lancashire;--the first will be the best, because, at

your time of life, it is highly improper to remain idle. If this

_marriage_ which is spoken of for you is at all advantageous, I can have

no objection; but I should suppose, after being in my service from your

infancy, you will at least let me know the name of your _intended_, and

her expectations. If at all respectable, nothing can be better for your

settlement in life, and a proper provision will be made for you; at all

events let me hear something on the subject, for, as I have some

intention of leaving England in the Summer, I wish to make my

arrangements with regard to yourself before that period. As you and Mr.

Murray have not received any money for some time, if you will draw on

_me_ for _fifty_ pounds (payable at Messrs. Hoare's, Bankers, Fleet

Street), and tell Mr. J[oseph] Murray to draw for the _same sum_ on his

_own_ account, both will be paid by me.

Etc., etc.,

B.

* * * * *

279.--To John Hanson.

F'y. 27th, 1813.

Dear Sir,--I have called several times, and you may suppose am very

anxious to hear something from or of Mr. Claughton.

It is my determination, on account of a malady to which I am subject,

and for other weighty reasons, to go abroad again almost immediately. To

this you will object; but, as my intention cannot be altered, I have

only to request that you will assist me as far as in your power to make

the necessary arrangements.

I have every confidence in you, and will leave the fullest powers to act

in my absence. If this man still hesitates, I must sell my part of

Rochdale for what it will bring, even at a loss, and fight him out about

Newstead; without this, I have no funds to go on with, and I do not wish

to incur further debts if possible.

Pray favour me with a short reply to this, and say when I can see you.

Excuse me to Mrs. H. for my non-appearance last night; I was detained in

the H. of L. till too late to dress for her party. Compliments to all.

Ever yours,

BN.

* * * * *

280.--To John Hanson.

March 1st, 1813.

Dear Sir,--I am sorry that I could not call today but will tomorrow.

Your objections I anticipated and can only repeat that I cannot act

otherwise; so pray hasten some arrangement--for with, or without, I must

go.

A person told me yesterday there was one who would give within 10000 of

C.'s price and take the title as it was. C. is a fool or is shuffling.

Think of what I said about _Rochdale_, for I will sell it for what I can

get, and will not stay three months longer in this country. I again

repeat I will leave all with full powers to you. I commend your

objection which is a proof of an honourable mind--which however I did

not need to convince me of your character. If you have any news send a

few lines.

Ever yours,

BN.

* * * * *

281.--To----Corbet.

Mh. 5th, 1813.

Dear Sir,--Lady F[alkland?] has returned by Mr. Hanson the only two

letters I ever wrote her, both some time ago, and neither containing the

least allusion which could make any person suppose that I had any

intention further than regards the children of her husband. My servant

returned the packet and letter of yesterday at the moment of receiving

them; by her letter to Mr. H. it should seem they have not been

redelivered. I am sorry for this, but it is not my fault, and they ought

never to have been sent. After her Ladyship's mistakes, so often

repeated, you will not blame me for declining all further interference

in her affairs, and I rely much upon your word in contradicting her

foolish assertions, and most absurd imaginations. She now says that "I

need not leave the country on her account." How the devil she knew that

I was about to leave it I cannot guess; but, however, for the first time

she has _dreamed_ right. But _her_ being the cause is still more

ludicrous than the rest. First, she would have it that I returned here

for love of a woman I _never saw_, and now that I am going, for the same

whom I _have never seen_, and certainly never wished, nor wish, to see!

The maddest _consistency_ I ever heard of. I trust that she has regained

her senses, as she tells Mr. H. she will not scribble any more, which

will also save _you_ from the troublesome correspondence of

Your obliged and obedient servant,

BYRON.

* * * * *

282.--To John Hanson.

March 6th, 1813.

Dear Sir,--I must be ready in April at whatever risk,--at whatever loss.

You will therefore advertize Rochdale; if you decline this, I will sell

it for what it will bring, even though but a few thousand pounds.

With regard to Claughton, I shall only say that, if he knew the

ruin,--the misery, he occasions by his delay, he would be sorry for his

conduct, and I only hope that he and I may not meet, or I shall say

something he will not like to hear. I have called often. I shall call

today at three or between three and four; again and again, I can only

beg of you to forward my plans, for here no power on earth shall make me

remain six weeks longer.

Ever yours,

B.

* * * * *

283.--To Charles Hanson.

Mh. 24th, 1813.

My Dear Charles,--This is very evasive and dissatisfactory. What is to

be done I cannot tell, but your father had better see his letter and

this of mine. A long litigation neither suits my inclination nor

circumstances; it were better to take back the estate, and raise it to

what it will bear, which must be at least double, to dismantle the house

and sell the materials, and sell Rochdale. Something I must determine on

and that quickly. I want to go abroad immediately; it is utterly

impossible for me to remain here; every thing I have done to extricate

myself has been useless. Your father said "_sell_;" I have sold, and see

what has become of it! If I go to Law with this fellow, after five years

litigation at the present depreciation of money, the _price_ will not be

worth the _property_; besides how much of it will be spent in the

contest! and how am I to live in the interim? Every day land rises and

money falls. I shall tell Mr. Cn. he is a _scoundrel_, and have done

with him, and I only hope he will have spirit enough to resent the

appellation, and defend his own rascally conduct. In the interim of his

delay in his journey, I shall leave town; on Sunday I shall set out for

Herefordshire, from whence, when wanted, I will return.

Pray tell your father to get the money on Rochdale, or I must sell it

directly. I must be ready by the last week in _May_, and am consequently

pressed for time.

I go first to Cagliari in Sardinia, and on to the Levant.

Believe me, dear Charles,

Yours truly,

B.

* * * * *

284.--To Samuel Rogers. [1]

March 25, 1813.

I enclose you a draft for the usurious interest due to Lord

B[oringdon]'s _protégé_;--I also could wish you would state thus much

for me to his Lordship. Though the transaction speaks plainly in itself

for the borrower's folly and the lender's usury, it never was my

intention to _quash_ the demand, as I _legally_ might, nor to withhold

payment of principal, or, perhaps, even _unlawful_ interest. You know

what my situation has been, and what it is. I have parted with an estate

(which has been in my family for nearly three hundred years, and was

never disgraced by being in possession of a _lawyer_, a _churchman_, or

a _woman_, during that period,) to liquidate this and similar demands;

and the payment of the purchase is still withheld, and may be, perhaps,

for years. If, therefore, I am under the necessity of making those

persons _wait_ for their money, (which, considering the terms, they can

afford to suffer,) it is my misfortune.

When I arrived at majority in 1809,1 offered my own security on _legal_

interest, and it was refused. _Now_, I will not accede to this. This man

I may have seen, but I have no recollection of the names of any parties

but the _agents_ and the securities. The moment I can, it is assuredly

my intention to pay my debts. This person's case may be a hard one; but,

under all circumstances, what is mine? I could not foresee that the

purchaser of my estate was to demur in paying for it.

I am glad it happens to be in my power so far to accommodate my

Israelite, and only wish I could do as much for the rest of the Twelve

Tribes.

Ever yours, dear R.,

BN.

[Footnote 1: The following was Rogers's reply:--

"Friday Morning.

"My Dearest Byron,--I have just received your note, but I _will not_

execute your Commission; and, moreover, I will tell Lord Boringdon

that I refused to do it. I know your situation; and I should never

sleep again, if by any interference of mine, for by so harsh a word I

must call it, you should be led by your generosity, your pride, or any

other noble motive, to do more than you are called upon to do.

"I mentioned the thing to Lord Holland last night, and he entirely

agreed with me, that you are not called upon to do it. The Principal

and the legal interest are all that these extortioners are entitled

to; and, you must forgive me, but I will not do as you require. I

shall keep the draft till I see you.

"Yours ever and ever,

"SAML. ROGERS."]

* * * * *

285.--To the Hon. Augusta Leigh.

4, Bennet Street, St. James's, March 26th, 1813.

My Dearest Augusta,--I did not answer your letter, because I could not

answer as I wished, but expected that every week would bring me some

tidings that might enable me to reply better than by apologies. But

Claughton has not, will not, and, I think, cannot pay his money, and

though, luckily, it was stipulated that he should never have possession

till the whole was paid, the estate is still on my hands, and your

brother consequently not less embarrassed than ever. This is the truth,

and is all the excuse I can offer for inability, but not unwillingness,

to serve you.

I am going abroad again in June, but should wish to see you before my

departure. You have perhaps heard that I have been fooling away my time

with different "_regnantes_;" but what better can be expected from me? I

have but one _relative_, and her I never see. I have no connections to

domesticate with, and for marriage I have neither the talent nor the

inclination. I cannot fortune-hunt, nor afford to marry without a

fortune. My parliamentary schemes are not much to my taste--I spoke

twice last Session, [1] and was told it was well enough; but I hate the

thing altogether, and have no intention to "strut another hour" on that

stage. I am thus wasting the best part of life, daily repenting and

never amending.

On Sunday, I set off for a fortnight for Eywood, near Presteign, in

Herefordshire--with the _Oxfords_. I see you put on a _demure_ look at

the name, which is very becoming and matronly in you; but you won't be

sorry to hear that I am quite out of a more serious scrape with another

singular personage which threatened me last year, and trouble enough I

had to steer clear of it I assure you. I hope all my nieces are well,

and increasing in growth and number; but I wish you were not always

buried in that bleak common near Newmarket.

I am very well in health, but not happy, nor even comfortable; but I

will not bore you with complaints. I am a fool, and deserve all the ills

I have met, or may meet with, but nevertheless very _sensibly_, dearest

Augusta,

Your most affectionate brother, BYRON.

[Footnote 1: What is generally supposed to have been Byron's second

speech (see Appendix II. (2)) was made, April 21, 1813, on Lord

Donoughmore's motion for a Committee on Roman Catholic claims.

The following impressions of his short parliamentary career are recorded

by Byron himself:

"I have never heard any one who fulfilled my ideal of an orator.

Grattan would have been near it, but for his harlequin delivery. Pitt

I never heard. Fox but once, and then he struck me as a debater, which

to me seems as different from an orator as an improvisatore, or a

versifier, from a poet. Grey is great, but it is not oratory. Canning

is sometimes very like one. Windham I did not admire, though all the

world did; it seemed sad sophistry. Whitbread was the Demosthenes of

bad taste and vulgar vehemence, but strong, and English. Holland is

impressive from sense and sincerity. Lord Lansdowne good, but still a

debater only. Grenville I like vastly, if he would prune his speeches

down to an hour's delivery. Burdett is sweet and silvery as Belial

himself, and I think the greatest favourite in Pandemonium; at least I

always heard the country gentlemen and the ministerial devilry praise

his speeches _up_ stairs, and run down from Bellamy's when he was upon

his legs. I heard Bob Milnes make his _second_ speech; it made no

impression. I like Ward--studied, but keen, and sometimes eloquent.

Peel, my school and form fellow (we sat within two of each other),

strange to say, I have never heard, though I often wished to do so;

but, from what I remember of him at Harrow, he _is_, or _should_ be,

among the best of them. Now I do _not_ admire Mr. Wilberforce's

speaking; it is nothing but a flow of words--'words, words, alone.'

"I doubt greatly if the English _have_ any eloquence, properly so

called; and am inclined to think that the Irish _had_ a great deal,

and that the French _will_ have, and have had in Mirabeau. Lord

Chatham and Burke are the nearest approaches to orators in England. I

don't know what Erskine may have been at the _bar_, but in the House,

I wish him at the bar once more. Lauderdale is shrill, and Scotch, and

acute. Of Brougham I shall say nothing, as I have a personal feeling

of dislike to the man.

"But amongst all these, good, bad, and indifferent, I never heard the

speech which was not too long for the auditors, and not very

intelligible, except here and there. The whole thing is a grand

deception, and as tedious and tiresome as maybe to those who must be

often present. I heard Sheridan only once, and that briefly, but I

liked his voice, his manner, and his wit: and he is the only one of

them I ever wished to hear at greater length.

"The impression of Parliament upon me was, that its members are not

formidable as _speakers_, but very much so as an _audience_; because

in so numerous a body there may be little eloquence, (after all, there

were but _two_ thorough orators in all antiquity, and I suspect still

_fewer_ in modern times,) but there must be a leaven of thought and

good sense sufficient to make them _know_ what is right, though they

can't express it nobly.

"Horne Tooke and Roscoe both are said to have declared that they left

Parliament with a higher opinion of its aggregate integrity and

abilities than that with which they entered it. The general amount of

both in most Parliaments is probably about the same, as also the

number of _speakers_ and their talent. I except _orators_, of course,

because they are things of ages, and not of septennial or triennial

reunions. Neither House ever struck me with more awe or respect than

the same number of Turks in a divan, or of Methodists in a barn, would

have done. Whatever diffidence or nervousness I felt (and I felt both,

in a great degree) arose from the number rather than the quality of

the assemblage, and the thought rather of the _public without_ than

the persons within,--knowing (as all know) that Cicero himself, and

probably the Messiah, could never have altered the vote of a single

lord of the bedchamber, or bishop. I thought _our_ House dull, but the

other animating enough upon great days.

"I have heard that when Grattan made his first speech in the English

Commons, it was for some minutes doubtful whether to laugh at or cheer

him. The _débût_ of his predecessor, Flood, had been a complete

failure, under nearly similar circumstances. But when the ministerial

part of our senators had watched Pitt (their thermometer) for the cue,

and saw him nod repeatedly his stately nod of approbation, they took

the hint from their huntsman, and broke out into the most rapturous

cheers. Grattan's speech, indeed, deserved them; it was a

_chef-d'oeuvre_. I did not hear _that_ speech of his (being then at

Harrow), but heard most of his others on the same question--also that

on the war of 1815. I differed from his opinions on the latter

question, but coincided in the general admiration of his eloquence.

"When I met old Courtenay, the orator, at Rogers's the poet's, in

1811-12, I was much taken with the portly remains of his fine figure,

and the still acute quickness of his conversation. It was _he_ who

silenced Flood in the English House by a crushing reply to a hasty

_débût_ of the rival of Grattan in Ireland. I asked Courtenay (for I

like to trace motives) if he had not some personal provocation; for

the acrimony of his answer seemed to me, as I read it, to involve it.

Courtenay said 'he had; that, when in Ireland (being an Irishman), at

the bar of the Irish House of Commons, Flood had made a personal and

unfair attack upon _himself_, who, not being a member of that House,

could not defend himself, and that some years afterwards, the

opportunity of retort offering in the English Parliament, he could not

resist it.' He certainly repaid Flood with interest, for Flood never

made any figure, and only a speech or two afterwards, in the English

House of Commons. I must except, however, his speech on Reform in

1790, which Fox called 'the best he ever heard upon that subject.'"]

* * * * *

286.--To John Murray.

March 29th, 1813.

Dear Sir,--Westall has, I believe, agreed to illustrate your book [1],

and I fancy one of the engravings will be from the pretty little girl

[2] you saw the other day, though without her name, and merely as a

model for some sketch connected with the subject. I would also have the

portrait (which you saw to-day) of the friend who is mentioned in the

text at the close of Canto 1st, and in the notes,--which are subjects

sufficient to authorise that addition.

Believe me, yours truly, B'N.

[Footnote 1: An edition of the first two cantos of 'Childe Harold', to

be illustrated by Richard Westall (1765-1836), who painted Byron's

portrait in 1813-14.]

[Footnote 2: Lady Charlotte Harley, daughter of Lord Oxford, to whom,

under the name of Ianthe, the introductory lines to 'Childe Harold' were

afterwards addressed. Lady Charlotte married, in 1820, Brigadier-General

Bacon.]

* * * * *

287.--To John Hanson.

Presteigne, April 15th, 1813.

Dear Sir,--I wrote to you requesting an answer last week, and again

apprising you of my determination of leaving England early in May, and

proceeding no further with Claughton.

Now, having arrived, I shall write to that person immediately to give up

the whole business. I am sick of the delays attending it, and can wait

no longer, and I have had too much of _law_ already at Rochdale to place

Newstead in the same predicament.

I shall only be able to see you for a few days in town, as I shall sail

before the 20th of May.

Believe me, yours ever, B.

P.S.--My best compliments to Mrs. H. and the family.

* * * * *

288.--To John Hanson.

Presteigne, April 17th, 1813.

Dear Sir,--I shall follow your advice and say nothing to our shuffling

purchaser, but leave him to you, and the fullest powers of _Attorney_,

which I hope you will have ready on my arrival in town early next week.

I wish, if possible, the arrangement with Hoare to be made immediately,

as I must set off forthwith. I mean to remain _incog_. in London for the

short time previous to my embarkation.

I have not written to Claughton, nor shall, of course, after your

counsel on the subject. I wish you would turn in your mind the

expediency of selling Rochdale. I shall never make any thing of it, as

it is.

I beg you will provide (as before my last voyage) the fullest powers to

act in my absence, and bring my cursed concerns into some kind of order.

You must at least allow that I have acted according to your advice about

Newstead, and I shall take no step without your being previously

consulted.

I hope I shall find you and Mrs. H., etc., well in London, and that you

have heard something from this dilatory gentleman.

Believe me, ever yours truly,

B.

* * * * *

289.--To John Murray.

April 21, 1813.

Dear Sir,--I shall be in town by Sunday next, and will call and have

some conversation on the subject of Westall's proposed designs. I am to

sit to him for a picture at the request of a friend of mine [1]; and as

Sanders's is not a good one, you will probably prefer the other. I wish

you to have Sanders's taken down and sent to my lodgings

immediately--before my arrival. I hear that a certain malicious

publication on Waltzing [2] is attributed to me. This report, I suppose,

you will take care to contradict, as the Author, I am sure, will not

like that I should wear his cap and bells. Mr. Hobhouse's quarto will be

out immediately; pray send to the author for an early copy which I wish

to take abroad with me.

Dear Sir, I am, yours very truly, B.

P.S.--I see the 'Examiner' [3] threatens some observations upon you next

week. What can you have done to share the wrath which has heretofore

been principally expended upon the Prince? I presume all your Scribleri

will be drawn up in battle array in defence of the modern Tonson--Mr.

Bucke [4], for instance. Send in my account to Bennet Street, as I wish

to settle it before sailing.

[Footnote 1: This picture, exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1815, is

now in the possession of the Baroness Burdett-Coutts.]

[Footnote 2: Byron's 'Waltz' was published anonymously in the spring of

1813, not, apparently, by Murray, but by Sherwood, Neely, and Jones,

Paternoster Row.]

[Footnote 3: In the 'Examiner' for April, 1813, occurs the paragraph: "A

word or two on Mr. Murray's (the 'splendid bookseller') judgment in the

Fine Arts--next week, 'if room'."]

[Footnote 4: Charles Bucke (1781-1846), a voluminous writer of verse,

plays, and miscellaneous subjects, published, in 1813, his 'Philosophy

of Nature; or, the Influence of Scenery on the Mind and Heart'. He

supported himself by his pen, and that indifferently. Byron seems to

suggest that he was a dependent of Murray's. In 1817 he sent to the

Committee of Management at Drury Lane his tragedy, 'The Italians; or,

the Fatal Accusation', and it was accepted. In February, 1819, he

withdrew the play, in consequence of a quarrel with Edmund Kean, and

published it with extracts from the correspondence and a Preface, which

sent it through numerous editions. The play itself was, after being

withdrawn, played at Drury Lane, April 3, 1819. Bucke and his Preface

were answered in 'The Assailant Assailed', and in 'A Defence of Edmund

Kean, Esq'. (both in 1819), and the opinion of the town condemned both

him and his tragedy.]

* * * * *