Seaham Hall (October 18 1814)
‘I am thinking and feeling in the next week – and so are you perhaps.
When I recollect our last meetings!
I never was so near losing all presence of mind.
Twice before we did meet to acknowledge each other, I had caught a passing glimpse of you…
You did not see me, I believe, and I hurried my Mother away, who was alarmed at my agitation.
I was then ill – without strength enough, if I had resolution, for the necessary exertion.
Through that season I scarcely ever went out without seeing you in my mind’s eye, and fearing to see you in reality – wishing it too.
All this was buried…
I do not think you are dearer to me now than you were then – the difference is that now I know whilst I feel how dear…
I am as if talking to you – I would I were – but next week perhaps…
Good night – bless you.‘
Sources Used:
The Life and Letters of Anne Isabella Lady Noel Byron Ethel Colburn Mayne (London: Constable & Co Ltd 1929)
The Regency Recondite 