The advance was made by him through Ballantyne, and you only did what was open and candid.

We shall be at the bottom of these peoples' views by-and-bye; at present I confess I only see very darkly--but let us have patience; a little time will develop all these mysteries.

I have not seen Ballantyne since, and when I do see him I shall say very little indeed.

If there really is a disappointment in not being connected with Scott's new poem, you should feel it much less than any man living--having such a poet as Lord Byron." Although Murray failed to obtain an interest in "The Lady of the Lake," he was offered and accepted, at Scott's desire, a share in a new edition of "Don Roderick.".