e being
able to save him; and I would ten times sooner shoot myself than be
mad, for I am not afraid of dying--I am more fit to die than people
think."

On the 18th his Lordship first began to dread that his fate was
inevitable. "I fear," said he to Fletcher, "you and Tita will be ill
by sitting up constantly, night and day"; and he appeared much
dissatisfied with his medical treatment. Fletcher again entreated
permission to send for Dr Thomas, at Zante: "Do so, but be quick,"
said his Lordship, "I am sorry I did not let you do so before, as I
am sure they have mistaken my disease; write yourself, for I know
they would not like to see other doctors here."

Not a moment was lost in executing the order, and on Fletcher
informing the doctors what he had done, they said it was right, as
they now began to be afraid themselves. "Have you sent?" said his
Lordship, when Fletcher returned to him.--"I have, my Lord."

"You have done well, for I should like to know what is the matter
with me."

From that time his Lordship grew every hour weaker and weaker; and he
had occasional flights of delirium. In the intervals he was,
however, quite self-possessed, and said to Fletcher, "I now begin to
think I am seriously ill; and in case I should be taken off suddenly,
I wish to give you several directions, which I hope you will be
particular in seeing executed." Fletcher in reply expressed his hope
that he would live many years, and execute them himself. "No, it is
now nearly over; I must tell you all without losing a moment."

"Shall I go, my Lord, and fetch pen, ink, and paper.

"Oh, my God! no, you will lose too much time, and I have it not to
spare, for my time is now short. Now pay attention--you will be
provided for."

"I beseech you, my Lord, to proceed with things of more consequence."

His Lordship then added,

"Oh, my poor dear child!--my dear Ada!--My God! could I have but seen
her--give her my blessing--and my dear sister Augusta, and her
children--and you will go to Lady Byron and say--tell her everything-
-you are friends with her."

He appeared to be greatly affected at this moment. His voice failed,
and only words could be caught at intervals; but he kept muttering
something very seriously for some time, and after raising his voice,
said,

"Fletcher, now if you do not execute every order which I have given
you, I will torment you hereafter, if possible."

This little speech is the last characterist