Yours, B.D.

The work, when it appeared in 1833, excited considerable sensation, and was very popular at the time of its publication.  It is now included in the uniform edition of Lord Beaconsfield’s works.

During his travels in the East, Mr. Disraeli was attended by Lord Byron’s faithful gondolier, who had accompanied his master to Missolonghi, and remained with him till his death.

Mr. Disraeli to John Murray.

DUKE STREET, July 5, 1832.

DEAR SIR,

I have just returned to town, and will call in Albemarle Street as soon as I can.  Tita, Lord Byron’s faithful servant, and [Footnote:  See note, p. 259.] who was also my travelling companion in the East, called upon me this morning.  I thought you might wish to see one so intimately connected with the lost bard, and who is himself one of the most deserving creatures in the world.

Yours faithfully,

B. DISRAELI.

At the same time that Mr. Disraeli was engaged on his novel, he was busy with another, but this time a political work entitled “England and France:  a Cure for the Ministerial Gallomania,” dedicated to Lord Grey.  The first letter on the subject—­after Mr. Murray had agreed to publish the work—­appears to have been the following, from Bradenham, Monday night, but without date: 

Mr. Disraeli to John Murray.

DEAR SIR,

By to-morrow’s coach, at your desire, I send you one-half of the volume, which, however, is not in the finished state I could have wished.  I have materials for any length, but it is desirable to get out without a moment’s loss of time.  It has been suggested to publish a volume periodically, and let this come out as No. 1; so as to establish a journal of general foreign politics, for which there are ample means of first-rate information.  I have not been able even to revise what is sent, but it will sufficiently indicate the work.

I am to meet a personage on Thursday evening in town, and read over the whole to him.  It is therefore absolutely necessary that the MS. should be returned to you on Thursday morning, and I will call in Albemarle Street the moment of my arrival, which will be about four o’clock.  If in time, acknowledge the receipt by return of post.

The remaining portion of the volume consists of several more dramatic scenes in Paris, a view of the character and career of L.P., [Footnote:  Louis Philippe.] a most curious chapter on the conduct of the Diplomatists, and a general view of the state of Europe at the moment of publication.  Pray be cautious, and above all let me depend upon your having the MS. on Thursday, otherwise, as Liston says in “Love, Law and Physic,” “we shall get all shot.”

B.D.

Mr. Disraeli to John Murray,

Friday, 11 o’clock.

MY DEAR SIR,

I much regret that I missed you yesterday, but I called upon you the instant I arrived.  I very much wish to talk over the “Gallomania,” and will come on to you, if it be really impossible for you to pay me a visit.  I have so much at this moment on my hands, that I should esteem such an incident, not only an honour, but a convenience.