'You could not have gratified me more than by giving me an opportunity of writing on my favourite subject to one so truly worthy of it as you are; indeed, I have repeatedly wished of late that I could communicate with you. Most thankful do I feel that I have so much to say that will delight you. I have every reason to think that my beloved B. is very happy and comfortable. I hear constantly from him and _his Rib_. They are now at Seaham, and not inclined to return to Halnaby, _because_ all the world were preparing to visit them there, and at Seaham they are free from this torment, no trifling one in B.'s estimation, as you know. From my own observations on their epistles, and knowledge of B.'s disposition and ways, I really hope _most_ confidently that all will turn out very happily. It appears to me that Lady Byron _sets about_ making him happy quite in the right way. It is true I judge at a distance, and we generally _hope_ as we _wish_; but I assure you I don't conclude hastily on this subject, and will own to you, what I would not scarcely to any other person, that I had _many fears_ and much anxiety _founded upon many causes and circumstances_ of which I cannot _write_. Thank God! that they do not appear likely to be realized. In short, there seems to me to be but one drawback to _all our_ felicity, and that, alas! is the disposal of dear Newstead, which I am afraid is irrevocably decreed. I received the fatal communication from Lady Byron ten days ago, and will own to you that it was not only grief, but disappointment; for I flattered myself such a sacrifice would not be made. From my representations she had said and urged all she could in favour of keeping it. Mr. Hobhouse the same, and I _believe_ that he was deputed to make inquiries and researches, and I knew that he wrote to B. suggesting the propriety and expediency of at least _delaying_ the sale. This most excellent advice created so much disturbance in Byron's mind that Lady B. wrote me word, "He had such a fit of vexation he could not appear at dinner, or leave his room...." B.'s spirits had improved at the prospect of a release from the embarrassments which interfered so much with his comfort, and I suppose I _ought_ to be satisfied with this.... May the future bring peace and comfort to my dearest B.! that is always one of my first wishes; and I am convinced it is my duty to _endeavour_ to be resigned to the loss of this dear Abbey from our family, as well as all other griefs which are sent by Him who knows what is good for us.... I do not know what are B.'s plans. Lady Byron says nothing can be decided upon till their affairs are in some degree arranged. They have been anxious to procure a temporary habitation in my neighbourhood, which would be convenient to him and delightful to me, if his presence is