here was too much about
politics, and poesy, and all things whatsoever, ending with that
topic on which most men are fluent, and none very amusing--_one's
self_. It might have been re-written--but to what purpose? My
praise could add nothing to your well-earned and firmly-established
fame; and with my most hearty admiration of your talents, and
delight in your conversation, you are already acquainted. In
availing myself of your friendly permission to inscribe this poem
to you, I can only wish the offering were as worthy your acceptance
as your regard is dear to,

"Yours, most affectionately and faithfully,

"BYRON."
]

* * * * *

TO MR. MURRAY.

"January 11. 1814.

"Correct this proof by Mr. Gifford's (and from the MSS.),
particularly as to the _pointing_. I have added a section for
_Gulnare_, to fill up the parting, and dismiss her more
ceremoniously. If Mr. Gifford or you dislike, 'tis but a _sponge_
and another midnight better employed than in yawning over Miss * *;
who, by the by, may soon return the compliment.

"Wednesday or Thursday.

"P.S. I have redde * *. It is full of praises of Lord
Ellenborough!!! (from which I infer near and dear relations at the
bar), and * * * *.

"I do not love Madame de Stael; but, depend upon it, she beats all
your natives hollow as an authoress, in my opinion; and I would not
say this if I could help it.

"P.S. Pray report my best acknowledgments to Mr. Gifford in any
words that may best express how truly his kindness obliges me. I
won't bore him with _lip_ thanks or _notes_."

* * * * *

TO MR. MOORE.

"January 13. 1814.

"I have but a moment to write, but all is as it should be. I have
said really far short of my opinion, but if you think enough, I am
content. Will you return the proof by the post, as I leave town on
Sunday, and have no other corrected copy. I put 'servant,' as being
less familiar before the public; because I don't like presuming
upon our friendship to infringe upon forms. As to the other _word_,
you may be sure it is one I cannot hear or repeat too often.

"I write in an agony of haste and confusion.--Perdonate."

* * * * *

LETTER 157. TO MR. MURRAY.

"January