| Citation |
CG-NL.771.017
22 Mar 1771:12 (8/384)
London, December 18. Theatrical Intelligence. Drury Lane.
Clandestine Marriage, &c. commanded by their Majesties.
There cannot be a stronger expression of the general
affection to an amiable Monarch, than the universal shouts
of a crowded audience at his appearance among them; and
however some deep politicians may affect to despise
popularity, the King of a free people can receive no
stronger proof of their attachment to him, than the
assurance of his being popularly, that is, generally,
beloved by them.
Immediately after the play was over, one of the honest
tars, belonging to a press gang who had taken their seats in
the upper gallery, addressed his Majesty with a political
speech, the purport of which was the recommendation of a
Spanish war; for why, we had beaten the Spanish Dons before,
and should beat them again. This declaration of war was
received by the audience with loud bursts of applause. The
sailors gave three cheers, and the boatswain joined with his
harmonious whistle. Their Majesties seemed to enjoy the
public humour, and very condescendingly bowed to the
audience.
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