more enlarged feeling of humanity led him to view in a very different
light; for, when expostulated with by Mr. Murray on his generous
intentions towards one "whom nobody else would give a single farthing
to," he answered, "it is for that very reason _I_ give it, because
nobody else will." The person in question was Mr. Thomas Ashe, author of
a certain notorious publication called "The Book," which, from the
delicate mysteries discussed in its pages, attracted far more notice
than its talent, or even mischief, deserved. In a fit, it is to be
hoped, of sincere penitence, this man wrote to Lord Byron, alleging
poverty as his excuse for the vile uses to which he had hitherto
prostituted his pen, and soliciting his Lordship's aid towards enabling
him to exist, in future, more reputably. To this application the
following answer, marked, in the highest degree, by good sense,
humanity, and honourable sentiment, was returned by Lord Byron:--

LETTER 152. TO MR. ASHE.

"4. Bennet Street, St. James's, Dec. 14. 1813.

"Sir,

"I leave town for a few days to-morrow; on my return, I will answer
your letter more at length. Whatever may be your situation, I
cannot but commend your resolution to abjure and abandon the
publication and composition of works such as those to which you
have alluded. Depend upon it they amuse _few_, disgrace both
_reader_ and _writer_, and benefit _none_. It will be my wish to
assist you, as far as my limited means will admit, to break such a
bondage. In your answer, inform me what sum you think would enable
you to extricate yourself from the hands of your employers, and to
regain, at least, temporary independence, and I shall be glad to
contribute my mite towards it. At present, I must conclude. Your
name is not unknown to me, and I regret, for your own sake, that
you have ever lent it to the works you mention. In saying this, I
merely repeat your _own words_ in your letter to me, and have no
wish whatever to say a single syllable that may appear to insult
your misfortunes. If I have, excuse me; it is unintentional. Yours,
&c.

"BYRON."

* * * * *

In answer to this letter, Ashe mentioned, as the sum necessary to
extricate him from his difficulties, 150_l_.--to be advanced at the rate
of ten pounds per month; and, some short delay having occurred in the
reply to this dem