Mrs.Mimms was born in the neighbourhood of Seaham, and knew Lady Byron from childhood.

During the long period of ten years she was Miss Milbanke's lady's-maid, and in that capacity became the close confidante of her mistress.

There were circumstances which rendered their relationship peculiarly intimate.

Miss Milbanke had no sister or female friend to whom she was bound by the ties of more than a common affection; and her mother, whatever other excellent qualities she may have possessed, was too high-spirited and too hasty in temper to attract the sympathies of the young.

Some months before Miss Milbanke was married to Lord Byron, Mrs.Mimms had quitted her service on the occasion of her own marriage with Mr.Mimms; but she continued to reside in the neighbourhood of Seaham, and remained on the most friendly terms with her former mistress.