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MR. DoDSLEY’s PREFACE. cxvii
The scheme which Mr. Collier had engaged in did not prosper according to his wishes; the pro
fits of the season were very small, and by no means a compensation for the trouble, risk, and expence,
which he had been at in seating himself on the theatrical throne. The joint-sharers at the Hay
market had acquired both fame and money; he therefore meditated an exchange of theatres with
them, and, by again employing
court, soon effected By the agreement which
was then entered into between the rival managers, the sole licence for acting plays was vested Swiney and his partners; and the performance
Operas was confined the Hay-market under the direction of Collier”.
The authority which this gentleman had now obtained the Opera-house, immediately farmed "Aaron Hill, Esq. for 600l. per annum; but
“But oh, my poor father! alas died
“Ere beheld this house finish’d pride. “He rais’d the stately pile slow degrees,
“Big with the hopes curious town please. “Letgenerous pity move the brave and fair
“To take his poor remains unto your care: “Who dies love, martyr's pity draws
“From all; then let him share the same applause, “Who died martyr for this good old cause. “Still let true noble gratitude shewn,
“And for father's sake support the son Cibber's Apology, 358. Ibid. 356.
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cxviii SUPPLEMENT TO
before the season expired he resumed the manage ment again into his own hands. The flourishing state of Drury-lane had attracted his notice and
envy. He grew again dissatisfied with
station,
and proposed once more return the stage
had abandoned. The same power which had
hitherto supported him his caprices still con
tinued favour him. Swiney was obliged re turn the Hay-market; and Collier, Wilks,
Dogget, and Cibber, remained Drury-lane, where from this period the abilities, industry, and integrity the managers brought their theatre into much reputation, that became them
the source independence during the rest their
lives. the end the first season, Swiney was ruined the Hay-market, and obliged banish
himselffrom the kingdom.
As soon the new regulation was settled,
Collier rendered his share sinecure, and agreed accept certain sum annually lieu
claims. 1712, the Tragedy Cato was acted,
wherein Mr. Booth acquired much reputation, that was encouraged solicit for share the management the theatre, and was gratified during the succeeding year. On his introduction,
Dogget, disgust, retired from the management, which never afterwards returned.
the year. 1714, Queen Anne died; and, amongst the changes which that event brought
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MR. DoDSLEY’s PREFACE. cxix
about, the management of Drury-lane theatre was not too inconsiderable to attract the notice of the
court. At the desire of the acting managers, Sir
Richard Steele procured his name to be inserted
instead of Collier's in a new licence jointly with
them; and this connection lasted many years equally to the advantage of the parties. this
year, the prohibition which the patent had been
long under was removed, and Lincoln’s-Inn Fields
theatre opened under the direction the late Mr. John Rich.
weaker company was obliged have recourse foreign aid, and oppose his antagonists with
other weapons than the merits his actors, the excellence the pieces represented them. The performers who were under Mr. Rich's direc
favour the town. this distress, the genius the new manager suggested him species en tertainment, which hath always been considered contemptible,
No sooner were dramatic
mitted two theatres, than the manager the
tion were much inferior those
that the latter carried away the applause and
performances per
but which the same time hath been
ever followed and encouraged. Pantomimes were now brought forwards; and, sound and shew
had the last century obtained victory over sense and reason, the same event would have followed again, the company Drury-lane had
Drury-lane,
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not, from the experience of past times, thought it
advisable to adopt the same measures. The fer
tility of Mr. Rich's invention in these exotic enter tainments, and the excellence of his performances
in them must be ever acknowledged. By means of these only, he kept the managers of the other house at times from relaxing their diligence;
and, the disgrace
tained more money performances than
public taste, frequently ob
such ridiculous and paltry
the sterling merit the other acquire.
house was able
The business the stage was carried success
fully, and without interruption, until about the year 1720, when disgust which the duke New castle, then Lord Chamberlain, had received from
‘Mr. Cibber", that gentleman was for some time
levelled the ministry, Mr. Cibber's Dedication Ximena Sir Richard Steele, and these were likely have been what gave offence. The same writer, however, after wards asserts the following have been the real cause: “My lord Duke had mind have certain part per “formed certain actor, which was generally acted by “one the managers; and when my lord urged his autho “rity enforce his commands, Cibber, visibly slighting
“his authority half laugh, said, that they were sort separate ministry, and absolutely refused obey
Pamphlet, called “The State the
The author
“Case, between the Lord Chamberlain his Majesty's “Household and Sir Richard Steele, represented that “Knight, restated,” &c. 30. mentions some strokes
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MR. DoDSLEY'S PREFACE. CXX
forbid to perform; and soon after a difference
arising between the same nobleman and Sir Richard
Steele, the power which had been often exercised
by the persons who had held his grace's office was
exerted,
against the managers. On this occasion a contro versy succeeded; but how long the prohibition
lasted, or in what manner the difference was ad justed, no where appears.
In this year, 1720, a new playhouse was erected in the Hay-market by one Mr. Potter, a carpen
ter”. It was not built for any particular person
or company, but seems to have been intended as a mere speculation by the architect, who relied on
being occasionally hired for dramatic exhibitions. The harmony which had subsisted for many years between Sir Richard Steele and his partners
was soon afterwards interrupted, and the affairs the theatre became again the objects chancery
litigation, which, 1726, was determined favour
“my Lord Chamberlain; upon which was silenced. ” Sir Richard, however, his state the case, asserts, that
the mortification put upon Mr. Cibber “was intended “only remote beginning evils which were affect “the patentee. ” During the time that the order for silencing
Mr. Cibber was force, Southerne's Tragedy The Spartan Dame was acted, and the part Crites intended for that performer was obliged read another actor.
Victor’s History the Theatres, vol. 184.
and an order of silence was enforced
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cxxii SUPPLEMENT TO
of the acting proprietors “ by a decree of Sir
Joseph Jekyll,
breach, however, which this dispute had made
then Master of the Rolls. The
would perhaps never have been healed, had Sir Richard been able to have resumed his share of the
management. His faculties at this time began to
Wales,
where he died on the 1st of September, 1729.
As the powers of the patent granted to him
terminated at the end of three years after his death,
decline: he soon afterwards retired into
the remaining managers solicited and obtained a renewal of the authority for twenty one years com mencing on the 1st of September, 1732; but the prosperous
course of their affairs was doomed about this time to be first checked, and afterwards
put an end to by the illness and deaths of the principal persons concerned in the theatre. Booth
was rendered incapable of performing for several years before he died. On the 23d of October, 1730, the stage suffered an irreparable loss by the death of Mrs. Oldfield; and about the same time
Mrs. Porter was prevented from acting by the misfortune of a dislocated limb. To complete the whole, Wilks died in September, 1731; and
Cibber, disliking his new partners, grew weary of his share, and took the earliest opportunity of
parting with
-
Cibber's Apology, 436.
*
it.
p.
MR. DoDSLEY'S PREFACE. cxxiii *
The number of theatres in London was this year,
1729, increased by the addition of one in Good man's Fields, which met with great opposition from many respectable merchants and grave citizens,
who apprehended much mischief from the intro duction of these kind of diversions so near to their
own habitations. Some of the clergy” also took
the alarm, and preached with much vehemence against Mr. Odell, however, the proprietor,
pursuing his design; completed the building, and, having collected
was not deterred from
company, began that for some time
perform asserted,
got not less than one hun this undertaking; but the
dred pounds week
clamour against continuing", was obliged
abandon the further prosecution his scheme; which means he sustained considerable loss. It
was afterwards revived Mr. Giffard with some
degree
The patent for Drury-lane being renewed, Mr.
Booth, who found his disorder increase, began think was time dispose his share and inte
Sermon was preached against St. Botolph, Aldgate, 30th November, 1729, Arthur Bedford,
was printed the next year.
asserted Pamphlet, called “The Usefulness “of the Stage Religion and Government,” &c. 8vo. 1738,
that address was presented the king from the lord mayor and court aldermen for the suppressing
success.
of it.
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SUPPLEMENT TO
rest in the theatre. The person upon whom he fixed for a purchaser was John Highmore, Esq. a gentleman of fortune, who unhappily had con
tracted an attachment to the stage, from having performed the part of Lothario one night for a wager. A treaty between them was set on foot soon after Mr. Wilks's death, and was concluded by Mr. Highmore's agreeing to purchase one half
of Mr. Booth's share, with the whole of his power in the management, for the sum of two thousand five hundred pounds. Before his admission, Mrs. Wilks had deputed Mr. Ellis to attend to the con duct of the theatre in her behalf. The introduc tion of two people into the management, who were totally unqualified either by their abilities or expe
rience for the offices they were to fill, gave offence to Mr. Cibber: he, therefore, to avoid being
troubled with the importance of the one or the ignorance of the other of his brethren, authorized
his son Theophilus to act for him as far as his in terest was concerned. The first season was ended
with some profit to the new patentees; but Mr. Highmore, being hurt by the impertinence of . young Cibber, determined to get rid of his inter ference, and purchased the father's share for the sum of three thousand guineas”.
This second purchase by Mr. Highmore was M. Victor's History of the Theatres, vol. 1. p. 8.
MR. DoDSLEY’s PREFACE.
cxxW
made at the beginning of the season of 1733, about the same time that Mrs. Booth sold her hus
band's remaining share to Mr. Giffard. Mr. High more's connection with the theatre began now to be attended with alarming consequences to him ; two weeks had hardly passed before the principal actors, spirited up by young Cibber, determined to
revolt from the patentees, and set up for them selves. The house called the little Theatre in the
Hay-market was then unoccupied; they therefore agreed to rent it of the proprietor, and, after making the necessary alterations, opened it with the Comedy of Love for Love, to an elegant crowded audience *.
The patentees also, though weakened by the desertion of their best performers, began to act at the usual time. To supply the places of those who had left their service, they were obliged to have recourse to such assistance as the country companies would afford. With the help they could obtain, their performances were much in
ferior those exhibited the Hay-market, that constant loss was sustained until the end of the
season. Mr. Highmore the mean time buoyed himself up with hopes obtaining redress, first
from the Lord Chamberlain, and afterwards putting the laws concerning vagrants force
Victor's History the Theatres, vol. 11.
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cxxvi SUPPLEMENT TO
against the delinquent players. In both these ex pectations he found himself disappointed. The
losses fell so heavy upon him, that he was under the necessity of giving up the contention, in order
to secure a small part of the property he had impru dently risked in this unfortunate undertaking.
The person who now succeeded to the patent of Drury-lane playhouse was Charles Fleetwood, a
gentleman who at one period of life had pos.
sessed very large fortune,
small portion only remained. only the share belonging
which this time He purchased not
Mr. Highmore,
those the other partners; and little value
was then set upon the theatre, that the whole sum which he disbursed for little more than exceeded
the half what Mr. Highmore had before paid.
The revolting actors were this time become dis
satisfied with their situations. treaty was there
fore opened, and soon concluded, for their return Drury-lane.
Although dramatic entertainments were not this time supported the abilities any actors
extraordinary merit,
and the characters those
excellent performers who had lately been lost from Drury-lane were very supplied, yet this period
seems have been particularly marked by spirit
enterprize which prevailed theatrical affairs. The fortune of Mr. Odell Goodman's Fields
had not extinguished the expectations another
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MR. DoDSLEY’s PREFACE. cxxvii
schemer, who solicited and obtained a subscription for building a magnificent playhouse 59 in that part
of the town; and in spite of opposition was
completed and opened the day October,
1732, with play King Henry IV. Mr. Gif
fard the new proprietor, however, did not remain
long there. 1733, the house Covent-Garden was finished, and Mr. Rich's company immediately
removed thither, which occasioned the old building Lincoln’s-Inn Fields be deserted. Mr. Gif
fard was then advised, that would more for his advantage quit Goodman's Fields, and take
the vacant edifice. He accordingly agreed for
1735, and acted there during the two ensuing years.
Soon afterwards, though time when many theatres were employed divert the public, and
“In large oval over the pit painted the figure “his Majesty, attended by peace, liberty, and justice,
trampling tyranny and oppression, under his feet: round “it are the heads Shakespeare, Dryden, Congreve, and
“Betterton the coving “scene Cato pointing
the left hand painted the the dead body his son Mar Julius Caesar stabbed the
“cus: the middle, that
“Senate-house; and the right, that Mark Anthony
and Octavia, where the children are introduced All for “Love: the sounding board over the stage hand “some piece painting Apollo and the nine Muses. ”
Gent. Mag. 1732, 1028.
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cxxviii SUPPLIEMENT TO
when none of them were in a flourishing state, the imprudence and extravagance of a gentleman, who possessed genius, wit, and humour in a high de gree, obliged him to strike out a new species of entertainment, which in the end produced an ex
traordinary change in the constitution of the dra matic system. To extricate himself out of diffi culties in which he was involved, and probably to revenge some indignities which had been thrown upon him by people in power, that admirable painter and accurate observer of life, the late Henry Fielding, determined to amuse the town at the ex pence of some persons in high rank, and of great
influence in the political world. For this purpose he got together a company of performers, who exhi
bited at the theatre in the Hay-market, under the
whimsical title of the Great Mogul's Company of
Comedians. The piece he represented was Pas
quin, which was acted to crowded audiences for fifty successive nights. Encouraged by the fa
vourable reception this performance met with, he
determined to continue at the same place the next season, when he produced several new plays, some
of which were applauded, and the rest condemned.
As soon as the novelty of the design was over, a
visible difference appeared between the audiences
of the two years. The company, which as the play-bills said dropped from the clouds, were dis
banded; and the manager, not having attended to
MR. DoDSLEY’s PREFACE. cxxix
the voice of economy in his prosperity, was left no richer or more independent than when he first engaged in the project.
The severity of Mr. Fielding's satire in these
pieces had galled the minister to that degree, that
the impression was not erased from his mind when the cause of it had lost all effect. He meditated
therefore a severe revenge on the stage, and de
termined to prevent any attacks of the like kind for
the future. In the execution of this plan he stea
dily persisted;
and at last had the satisfaction of
seeing the enemy, which had given him so much uneasiness, effectually restrained from any power
of annoying him on the public theatres. An act of parliament passed in the year 1737, which for bad the representation of any performance not pre viously licenced by the Lord Chamberlain, or in any place, except the city of Westminster and the
liberties thereof, or where the royal family should
at any time reside. It also took from the crown the power of licensing any more theatres, and in
flicted heavy penalties on those who should here after perform in defiance of the regulations in the statute. This unpopular act did not pass without opposition. It called forth the eloquence of Lord
Chesterfield in a speech, wherein the arguments favour this obnoxious law were answered, the
dangers which might ensue from were pointed
out, and the little necessity for such hostilities VOL.
I.
of
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CXXX --
SUPPL EMENT TO
against the stage clearly demonstrated. It also excited an alarm in the people at large, as tending
to introduce restraints on the liberty of the press. Many pamphlets were published against the prin
ciple of the act; and it was combated in every
shape which wit, ridicule, or argument, could op
pose it All these, however, availed nothing;
the minister had resolved, and the parliament was
too compliant
mended from
slight bill which came recom powerful quarter. there
law, and freed the then, and
fore passed into
future ministers, from any apprehensions mis
chief from the wit or malice of dramatic writers. The year 1740, was rendered remarkable
This was the late Mr. Garrick, who, after experi encing some slights from the managers Drury Lane and Covent-Garden, determined make trial his theatrical qualifications the playhouse
Goodman's Fields, under the direction Mr. Giffard, who was that time permitted perform there without molestation. The part chose
his first appearance was that Richard the Third, which displayed clear conception
character, such power execution, and union talents varied, extensive, and unexpected, soon fixed his reputation the first actor
theatrical world the
whose genius seemed intended adorn, and whose abilities were destined support the stage,
appearance actor,
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MR. DODSLEY'S PREFACE. cxxxi
own or any former times. His fame spread through every part of the town with the greatest
rapidity; and Goodman's Fields theatre, which had been confined to the inhabitants of the city, be came the resort of the polite, and was honoured
people. At Goodman's Fields, Mr. Garrick remained
with the notice of ranks and orders
but one season; after which lane, where continued and, by prudent attention
removed Drury increase his reputation,
the dictates fru gality and discretion, acquired character which
pointed him out proper person succeed the management the theatre few years after,
accomplish
The affairs Drury-lane theatre suffered the
mischiefs which could arise from the imprudence inability the manager. That gentleman had em
barrassed his domestic concerns almost every species misconduct, and involved himself such
and fortune which enabled him
that point when the opportunity offered.
difficulties,
that there remained no other means extricating himself from them than abandoning his country, and retiring abroad. About the year
1745, the whole either mortgaged
had been assigned tised be disposed
his property the theatre was sold; and the patent, which
some creditors, was adver public auction. Two Bankers soon afterwards became the purchasers,
and they received into the management the late Mr.
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cxxxii SUPPLEMENT To
Lacey, to whom the conduct of the theatre was
relinquished.
The calamities of the times affected
the credit of many persons at this juncture; and
amongst the rest of the new managers, who found
themselves obliged to stop payment.
Their mis fortunes occasioned the patent again to become
the object of a sale. It was offered to several persons, but few appeared to have courage enough
to venture upon At length was proposed
Mr. Lacey, that and Mr. Garrick should be come joint-purchasers. The offer was accepted.
renewal the patent was solicited and obtained. All the preliminaries were short time settled,
and, the year 1747, the house was opened with Prologue written Dr. Johnson, and spoken
Mr. Garrick.
From this period may dated the flourishing
state the theatre. The new partners were fur
nished with abilities make their purchase advan tageous themselves, and useful the public.
Mr. Garrick's admirable performances insured them great audiences; and the industry and attention
Mr. Lacey were employed rendering the house
convenient the frequenters They both exerted their endeavours acquire the favour the town; and the preference which was given them over their rivals the other theatre suffi
ciently proved the superior estimation they were held The harmony which subsisted between
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MR. Dodsley's PREFACE. cxxxiii
them contributed to the success of their under
taking, and their efforts in the end procured them both riches and respect.
The month of December, 1761, was marked with the death of Mr. Rich, who had been ma nager under the patents granted by Charles the
Second almost fifty years. His peculiar excel lence in the composition of those performances
which demanded shew and expence enabled him, with an indifferent company of actors, to make a stand against the greatest performers of his time:
he was unrivalled in the representation of his fa vourite character Harlequin, and possessed with
many foibles some qualities which commanded the esteem of his friends and acquaintance. On his decease, the business of Covent-Garden theatre
was conducted by his son-in-law Mr. Beard.
In the year 1763, Mr. Garrick, by the advice of
his physicians, went abroad, in order to relax from the fatigues of profession, and re-establish health, which had been much broken uninter rupted exertion abilities the stage. He was absent two seasons, and then returned the
theatre, where remained until the year 1776. The theatre the Hay-market had for some
years been occupied the summer time of licences from the Lord Chamberlain.
month July, 1766, was advanced
nity theatre royal; patent being then made.
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cxxxiv. SU PPL EMI ENT TO
out to Mr. Foote, authorizing him to build a thea tre in the city and liberties of Westminster, and to exhibit dramatic performances, &c. therein, from
the 14th day of May to the 14th of September, during life. On this grant being passed, the patentee purchased the old playhouse, which had been built 1720, and immediately pulled down. was rebuilt the course the next
year, and opened the month May, 1767. Mr. Foote very successfully managed this theatre until the season before his death.
From the decease Mr. Rich, Covent-Garden theatre had been intrusted the direction of his
son-in-law Mr. Beard, who introduced several
musical pieces the stage, which were received with applause, and brought considerable profits those concerned the house. The taste of the public inclined very much this species per
formance for several seasons; but about the year
1766 the audiences beginning lessen, and the
acting manager finding
which desirous the quiet
relief for had long been afflicted with,
retiring from the bustle private life. the summer
deafness became
theatre 1767,
negociation was set foot and Rutherford, for the purchase
the play-house which belonged prietors; but the advantage
Messieurs Harris the property
the then pro having capital
performer one the sharers being suggested,
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MR. DoDSLEY'S PREFACE. CXXXV
Mr. Powell was invited to join with them, and he recommended Mr. Colman as a person from whom the undertaking would receive great advantage.
The proposal being assented to by the several parties, the property of the theatre was assigned in
August, 1767; the conduct of the stage was in trusted to Mr. Colman, and the house opened on the 14th of September with the Comedy of the Rehearsal; and a Prologue written by Paul White head, and spoken by Mr. Powell.
The disputes which soon afterwards arose amongst the new managers are unworthy of any
notice, on account of the virulence and acrimony with which each party seems to have been inflamed: it is sufficient to observe, that after they had con
tinued a long time, and had received a judicial de termination, they were amicably ended.
Mr. Rutherford sold his share to Messieurs Leake and Dagge. Mr. Powell died in July,
1769;
Fisher, who by that means became entitled to
some part of her late husband's interest in the
theatre. Mr. Colman managed the affairs of the stage until the year 1774, when his right was pur
chased by the rest of his partners, to whom it was immediately assigned.
In 1776, an event took place, which the ad mirers of theatrical entertainments had long ex pected with concern, and now viewed with regret.
3-
and his widow afterwards married Dr.
cxxxvi SUPPLEMENT TO
Mr. Garrick, at a period when his powers had
suffered little injury from time, and in the height of his fame and popularity, determined to relin
quish connection with the stage, and retire the honourable enjoyment large fortune, ac
quired the course near forty years spent
the service the public. His last appearance
was the character Don Felix the Play
the Wonder, acted the 10th day June, for charitable benefit. He was honoured with
brilliant and crowded audience, and was dismissed with the loudest applauses ever heard theatre.
The obligations which the public are under him for the decency and propriety our present
dramatic performances, will ever intitle him the grateful respect the world, independent his
extraordinary author.
merit either actor
As this the period which the present im perfect account the English theatre intended
closed, some apology may expected for
the defects more copious and particular detail would not have been consistent with the
plan this work; and the materials for history
executed with such minuteness the subject de serves are too much scattered, and too difficult
obtained, readily brought together. Many
might pro cured from those who have access the interior
circumstances and much information
to
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MR. DoDSLEY'S PREFACE. cxxxvii
of the present playhouses; the neglected pamphlets
of former times would afford a great fund of intel ligence; and the remembrance of many individuals would furnish particulars of considerable value to
any person who had leisure and abilities for such
an undertaking. The History of the Drama seems in
titled to more regard than hath been bestowed upon To excite the attention of those who are best
qualified for such work, hath been the chief end
the present slight view
more worthy public notice. March 31, 1780.
the English theatres, pardon, may
which can only entitled
probably some future time
ducing performance with fewer imperfections and
the means pro
a
at
of
be
a
be to of
as of it
of
it.
HISTORIA HISTRIONICA : AN
HISTORICAL ACCOUNT
THE ENGLISH STAGE; sh Ewing,
THE ANCIENT Use, IMPROVEMENT, AND PERFECTION OF DRAMATIC REPRESENTATIONS IN THIS NATION.
IN
A DIALOGUE OF PLAYS AND PLAYERS.
—Olim meminisse juvabit.
LONDON;
PRINTED BY G. G Room, FOR WILLIAM HAWEs, AT THE ROSE IN LUDGATE-STREET.
1699.
This tract was originally printed in 1699. It is said to have been the production of James Wright of New Inn, afterwards of the Middle Temple, Barrister at Law.
He was the author of The Antiquities of Rutlandshire, and some poems; particularly, (1. ) “An Essay on the
“present Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral. ” To which is annexed, “The Misfortunes of St. Paul's Cathe “dral,” in heroic verse, 4to. 1668; re-printed with
two other poems under the title of, (2) “Three poems “ of St. Paul's Cathedral; viz. The Ruins, The Re
“building, The Choire”, Fo. 1697. ” and (3. ) “Phoe “ mix Paulina, a Poem on St. Paul's Cathedral, 4to.
“ 1709+. ” He was alive in 1710, being mentioned by
Mr. Hearne in his preface to Leland's Itimerary, in this manner; “I could have supply'd more Lacunae, and
“in likelyhood have render'd this performance more “perfect, had had the use very good tran
“script Mr. Leland's Itinerary, taken about the time Queen Elizabeth (before the originals took wet,
“is suppos'd) and was formerly possession James “Wright, the Middle Temple, Esq. the worthy “author the Antiquities Rutlandshire; but this,
“with multitude
“unhappily burnt
“the year 1698,
“inform me. ” Anthony Wood says, wrote elegy on the death Mr. John Goad, Master Merchant Taylor's School, who died 1689. (See Wood's Athenae,
vol. 839. )
-
-
other valuable curiosities, was
the fire the Middle Temple, Mr. Wright has been pleased
British Topography, vol. 610.
Catalogue pamphlets the Harleian Library, 140.
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“
THE PREFACE. *
MUCH has been writ of late pro and con about the stage, yet the subject admits of more, and that which has not been hitherto touched upon ; not only what that but what was, about which some people have made such bustle. What
we see, and think has been sufficiently dis play’d Mr. Collier's book; what was former ages and how used this kingdom, far back
one may collect any memorials, the subject the following dialogue. Old plays will always
read the curious, were only discover the
manners and behaviour several ages and how they altered. For plays are exactly like portraits,
drawn the garb and fashion the time when
You see one habit the time Charles
another quite different from that, both for men and women, Queen Elizabeth's time another
This preface now for the first time inserted, Mr.
Reed having omitted probably because his copy was not perfect. reprinted from the first edition 1699,
painted.
which the former editor had not been able
procure.
It is
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under Henry the Eighth different from both, and so backward all various. And in the several fashions
of behaviour and conversation there is as much
mutability as in that of clothes. Religion and re ligious matters was once as much the mode in public entertainments, as the contrary has been in
some times since. This appears in the different
plays of several ages: and to evince this the fol lowing sheets are an essay or specimen.
Some may think the subject of this discourse trivial, and the persons herein mentioned not worth
But besides that I could name some
remembering.
things contested of late with great heat, of as little or less consequence, the reader may know that the profession of players is not so totally scandalous, nor them reprobate, but that there has been found under that name canonized saint the pri mitive church; may seen the Roman Mar
tyrology the 29th March: his name Masculas, master interludes (the Latin Archimimus, and the French translation Maitre comedien) who under the persecution the Vandals Africa,
Geisericus the Arian King, having, endured many
and grievous torments and reproaches for the con
fession the truth, finished the course this glo rious combat, saith the said Martyrology.
appears from this and some further instances the following discourse, that there have been
in It
all of
of
of on
be a
in of
of
un
in
is
in by a
as
so
cxliii
players of worthy principles as to religion, loyalty
and other virtues; and if the major part of them
fall under a different character, it is the general
unhappiness of mankind, that the most are the (VOrSt.
A DIALOGUE, &c.
LovEw It, TRUE. M. A. N.
Lovewit. HoN fist old Cavalier well met, 'faith I’m glad to see thee.
Trueman. Have a care what you call me; old is a word of disgrace among the ladies; to be honest is to be poor, and foolish, (as some think;) and Cavalier is a word as much out of fashion as any of 'em.
Lorewit. The more's the pity : but what said the for tune-teller in Ben Jonson's mask of Gypsies, to the
then Lord Privy Seal
Honest and old l
In those the good part of a fortune is told. Trueman. Ben Jonson how dare you name Ben Jonson in these times; when we have such a crowd of
poets of a quite different genius; the least of which thinks himself as well able to correct Ben Jonson, as
he old a country school-mistress that taught to spell?
Lovewit. We have, indeed, poets of a different ge mius; so are the plays: but, in my opinion, they are
'em (some few excepted) much inferior those former times, the actors now being (gene tally speaking) are, compared Hart, Mohun, Burt, Lacy, Clun, and Shatterel; for can reach
backward.
Trueman. can and dare assure you,
memory are not partial (for men
apt over indulgent the thoughts
my fancy my age their
Youthful days) say the actors that have seen before
wars, Lowin, Taylor, Pollard, and some others, WOL,
farther
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I be
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;
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cxlvi A Dr A LOGUE, &c.
were almost as far beyond Hart and his company, as those were beyond these now in being.
Lovewit. I am willing to believe but cannot rea dily; because have been told, that those whom mention'd, were bred under the others your ac quaintance, and follow'd their manner action, which
now lost: far, that when the question has been
ask'd, Why these players not revive the Silent Wo
man, and some other Jonson's plays (once highest
esteem) they have answered, Truly, because there are
none now living who can rightly humour those parts;
for who related the Black-friers, (where they were
acted perfection) are now dead and almost for gotten.
Trueman. "Tis very true, Hart and Clun were bred boys the Black-friers, and acted women's parts;
Hart was Robinson's boy, apprentice; acted the Duchess, the Tragedy the Cardinal, which was
the first part that gave him reputation. Cartwright and Wintershal belong'd the Private House Salisbury court; Burt was boy, first under Shank the Black friers, then under Beeston the Cock-pit; and Mohun and Shatterel were the same condition with him, the last place. There Burt used play the principal women's parts, particular Clariana, Love's Cuelty: and the same time Mohun acted Bellamente, which part
retained after the restoration.
Lovewit. That have seen, and can well remember.
wish they had printed the last age (so call the times before the rebellion) the actors' names over against the parts they acted, they have done since the restoration; and thus one might have guess'd
the action the men, the parts which now read the old plays.
Trueman. was not the custom and usage those
days, hath been since. Yet some few old plays
there are that have the names set against the parts, as,
The Dutchess Malfy; the Picture; the Roman Actor; the Deserving Favourite; the Wild-Goose Chase, (at the Black-friers); the Wedding; the Rene
as it
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A DIALOGUE, &c. cxlvii
gado: the Fair Maid of the West; Hannibaland Scipio; King John and Matilda, (at the Cock-pit); and Hol land's Leaguer, (at Salisbury Court).
Lovewit. These are but few indeed: but pray, sir,
what master-parts can you remember the old Black
frier's men to act in Jonson, Shakspeare, and Fletcher's plays?
Trueman. What I can at present recollect I'll tell you; Shakspeare, (who, as I have heard, was a much better poet than player) Burbage, Hemmings, and others of the older sort, were dead before I knew the town : but in my time, before the wars, Lowin used to act, with mighty applause, Falstaffe, Morose, Volpone, Mammon, in the Alchymist; Melantius, in the Maid's Tragedy; and at the same time Amyntor was play'd by Stephen Hammerton, (who was at first a most noted and beautiful woman actor, but afterwards he acted,
with equal grace and applause, a young lover's part); Taylor acted Hamlet incomparably well, Jago, Truewit
in the Silent Woman, and Face in the Alchymist; Swanston us’d to play Othello; Pollard and Robinson were comedians; so was Shank, who us’d to act Sir
Roger, in the Scornful Lady: these were of the Black
friers. Those of principal note at the Cock-pit, were, Perkins, Michael Bowyer, Sumner, William Allen, and
Bird, eminent actors, and Robins, a comedian. Of the other companies I took little notice.
Lovewit. Were there so many companies?
Trueman. Before the wars there were in being these play-houses the same time. The Black-friers,
and Globe the Bank-side, winter and summer house, belonging the same company, called the King's Servants; the Cock-pit Phoenix, Drury lane, called the Queen's Servants; the Private House
Salisbury-court, called the Prince's Servants; the Fortune near Whitecross Street and the Red Bull,
The Fortune near Whitecross Street. ] This afterwards said large round brick building. Mr. Steevens supposes, from the extent that the actors resided within precincts. was pulled down about the time the restoration, soon after the ap
and
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cxlviii A DIALOGUE, &c.
at the upper end of St. John's Street: the two last were mostly frequented by citizens, and the meaner sort
of people. All these companies got money, and liv'd in reputation, especially those of the Black-friers, who were men of grave and sober behaviour.
Lovewit. Which I admire at; that the town, much less than at present, could then maintain five compa nies, and yet now two can hardly subsist.
Trueman. Do not wonder, but consider, that tho’ the
town was then, perhaps, not much more than half so
populous as now, yet then the prices were small (there
being no scenes) and better order kept among the com
pany that came; which made very good people think
a play an innocent diversion for an idle hour or two,
the plays themselves being then, for the most part,
more instructive and moral. Whereas, of late, the play
houses are so extremely pestered with vizard-masks and their trade, (occasioning continual quarrels and abuses)
that many of the more civiliz'd part of the town are un easy in the company, and shun the Theatre as they would a house of scandal. It is an argument of the worth of the plays and actors of the last age, and easily inferred, that they were much beyond ours in this, to
consider that they could support themselves merely from their own merit, the weight of the matter, and goodness of the action, without scenes and machines;
whereas the present plays with that shew can hardly draw an audience, unless there be the additional invi
pearance the following advertisement, the Mercurius Politicus Tuesday, Feb. 14, Tuesday, Feb. 21. 1661. “The Fortune
“Playhouse, situate between Whitecross Street, and Golding “Square, the parish St. Giles, Cripplegate, with the ground
thereunto belonging, let built upon where 23 te
nements may erected, with gardens; and street may cut through for the better accommodation the buildings. ” (See
edition Shakspeare, 1778, vol. passage The English Traveller, find there was picture Statue
267. ) From the following Heywood, 1633, Sign. we
——
Fortune before the building. I’le rather stand heere
“Like Statue the Forefront your house “For ever; Like the picture Dame Fortune
“Before the Fortune Playhouse. ”
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A DIALOGU E, &c. cxlix
tation of a Signior Fideli, a Monsieur l'Abbe, or some such foreign regale express'd in the bottom of the bill. Lovewit. To wave this digression, I have read of one
Edward Alleyn, a man, so famed for excellent action, that among Ben Jonson's epigrams, I find one directed to him, full of encomium, and concluding thus:
Wear this renown, 'tis just that who did give So many poets life, by one should live.