Chapter XIV: Letter 24 (2)

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 gloriae_, 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 L20, 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 'invita Minerva!'"]

* * * * *

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 L100 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
(Koelbing'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
L100 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 L1500, and the enclosure ran as follows:

"Lord Byron.

"A Bill for L1500, 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" ('nee' 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 _protege_;--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.