It therefore appeared expedient, both to them and to myself, to consult the ablest advisers.

For that object, and also to obtain still further information respecting appearances which indicated mental derangement, my mother determined to go to London.

She was empowered by me to take legal opinion on a written statement of mine; though I then had reasons for reserving a part of the case from the knowledge even of my father and mother.' It is during this time of uncertainty that the next letter to Mrs.Leigh may be placed.

It seems to be rather a fragment of a letter than a whole one: perhaps it is an extract; in which case it would be desirable, if possible, to view it in connection with the remaining text:-- Jan.

25, 1816.
'MY DEAREST AUGUSTA,--Shall I still be your sister?
I must resign my right to be so considered; but I don't think that will make any difference in the kindness I have so uniformly experienced from you.' This fragment is not signed, nor finished in any way, but indicates that the writer is about to take a decisive step.
On the 17th, as we have seen, Lady Milbanke had written, inviting Lord Byron.