[Byroniana]

Pamphlet, 8vo (8 x 5 1/4 in.; 203 x 133 mm), 15 pp. extracted from bound volume.  2 light horizontal folds, some light soiling. 

Lord Holland (inscription, trimmed, on title)

Ashley 9, pp. 50-1; Wise II, pp. 94-5

Condition as described in catalogue entry.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition.  An account by Byron's wife of the tumultuous events surrounding their permanent and legal separation in January 1816, written by her to correct the account provided by Thomas Moore in his recently published biography. At the time Lady Byron wrote to a friend, "My wish is to place the copy only in the hands of those who will make a discreet use of it, and prevent the possibility of its insertion in the newspapers at present.  I think I shall not send out more than a dozen at first.  Moore's is dispatched." This copy would appear to be one of those twelve as it is inscribed on the front to Lord Holland. Holland House was at the very heart of the Whig aristocracy with which Byron himself, while he was yet in England, was associated.

The rarity of this original printing is difficult to assess, as various sources do not make a clear distinction between the 15-page first edition and the 13-page reprint.