Memoir of John Murray
Mary Somerville to John Murray, 13 January 1831
You have kindly afforded me a source of very great interest
and pleasure in the perusal of the second volume of Moore’s ‘Life of Byron.’ In my opinion, it is very superior to the
first; there is less repetition of the letters; ![]()
| BYRON’S ‘LIFE,’ VOL II. | 3221 |
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they are better written,
abound more in criticism and observation, and make the reader better acquainted
with Lord Byron’s principles and
character. His morality was certainly more suited to the meridian of Italy than
England; but with all his faults there is a charm about him that excites the
deepest interest and admiration. His letter to Lady
Byron is more affecting and beautiful than anything I have read;
it must ever be a subject of regret that it was not sent; it seems impossible
that it should not have made a lasting impression, and might possibly have
changed the destinies of both. With kind remembrances to Mrs. Murray and the young people,
Believe me, truly yours,
Thomas Moore (1779-1852)
Irish poet and biographer, author of the
Irish Melodies (1807-34),
The Fudge Family in Paris (1818), and
Lalla
Rookh (1817); he was Byron's close friend and designated biographer.
Anne Murray [née Elliot] (1782-1854)
The daughter of the Scottish bookseller Charles Elliot; she married the second John
Murray in 1807.
Mary Somerville [née Fairfax] (1780-1872)
Mathematician and science writer, daughter of Admiral William George Fairfax (1739-1813)
and friend of Ada Byron; she spent her later years in Italy. She was twice married.
