"Sept. 15. 1815. Piccadilly Terrace.
"Dear Sir,
"'Ivan' is accepted, and will be put in progress on Kean's arrival.
"The theatrical gentlemen have a confident hope of its success. I
know not that any alterations for the stage will be necessary; if
any, they will be trifling, and you shall be duly apprised. I would
suggest that you should not attend any except the latter
rehearsals--the managers have requested me to state this to you.
You can see them, viz. Dibdin and Rae, whenever you please, and I
will do any thing you wish to be done on your suggestion, in the
mean time.
"Mrs. Mardyn is not yet out, and nothing can be determined till she
has made her appearance--I mean as to her capacity for the part you
mention, which I take it for granted is not in Ivan--as I think
Ivan may be performed very well without her. But of that hereafter.
Ever yours, very truly,
"BYRON.
"P.S. You will be glad to hear that the season has begun uncommonly
well--great and constant houses--the performers in much harmony
with the Committee and one another, and as much good-humour as can
be preserved in such complicated and extensive interests as the
Drury Lane proprietary."
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