"I had some thoughts of putting the question to C * * r, but H., who, I am sure, would not dissuade me if it were right, advised me by all means _not_;--'that I had no right to take it upon suspicion,' &c. &c. Whether H. is correct I am not aware, but he believes himself so, and says there can be but one opinion on that subject. This I am, at least, sure of, that he would never prevent me from doing what he deemed the duty of a _preux_ chevalier. In such cases--at least, in this country--we must act according to usages. In considering this instance, I dismiss my own personal feelings. Any man will and must fight, when necessary,--even without a motive. _Here_, I should take it up really without much resentment; for, unless a woman one likes is in the way, it is some years since I felt a _long_ anger. But, undoubtedly, could I, or may I, trace it to a man of station, I should and shall do what is proper. "* * was angerly, but tried to conceal it. _You_ are not called upon to avow the 'Twopenny,' and would only gratify them by so doing. Do you not see the great object of all these fooleries is to set him, and you, and me, and all persons whatsoever, by the ears?--more especially those who are on good terms,--and nearly succeeded. Lord H. wished me to _concede_ to Lord Carlisle--concede to the devil!--to a man who used me ill? I told him, in answer, that I would neither concede, nor recede on the subject, but be silent altogether; unless any thing more could be said about Lady H. and himself, who had been since my very good friends;--and there it ended. This was no time for concessions to Lord C. "I have been interrupted, but shall write again soon. Believe me ever, my dear Moore," &c. * * * * * Another of his friends having expressed, soon after, some intention of volunteering publicly in his defence, he lost no time in repressing him by the following sensible letter:-- LETTER 169. TO W * * W * *, ESQ. "February 28. 1814. "My dear W., "I have but a few moments to write to you. _Silence_ is the only answer to the things you mention; nor should I regard that man as my friend who said a word more on the subject. I care little for attacks, but I will not submit to _defences_; and I do hope and trust that _you_ have never entertained a serious thought of engaging in so foolish a controversy. Dallas's letter was, to his credit, merely as to facts which he had a right to state; _I_ neither have nor shall take the least _public_ notice, nor permit any one else to do so. If I discover the writer, then I may act in a different manner; but it will not be in writing.