But, though few, perhaps, have ever so closely watched the approach of infirmity, and though he was in the habit of saying, "Growing old is like growing poor, a sort of going down in the world," his frequent expression was, "This does not make me melancholy." And when, at last, "Everything seemed to tire," there was, with this feeling of mortal weariness, another feeling, which was that he was
"On the brink of being born."
The Editor desires to acknowledge the valuable assistance he has received; and would especially mention James Gairdner, Esq., of the Record Office; George Scharf, Esq., one of Mr. Robinson's intimate and highly valued friends; and J. Morley, Esq., author of "Burke: a Historical Study," &c. Mr. Gairdner made the selections in some of the years. The proofs have had the advantage of additional notes, especially in connection with art, by Mr. Scharf, and of excellent suggestions by Mr. Morley. Dr. Wagner has rendered a like service, in regard to those parts which relate to Germany. The admirable paper by Mr. De Morgan, at the end of the third volume, speaks for itself. In acknowledging the kindness of Lady Byron's relatives, in regard to the letters by her, the Editor cannot but add the expression of a hope, that, before long, the public may have the opportunity of a fuller acquaintance with the correspondence of one capable of writing such letters.
