| Citation |
MG-A(G.770.024
6 Sep 1770:3523 (1304)
As I make it a matter of conscience to do justice to merit,
to the utmost of my abilities,in what-ever walk of life I
chance to discover it; I shall take the liberty of
publishing, through the channel of your paper, the
observations which the representation at the theatre, on
Thursday night, drew from me.
I shall not, at present, expatiate on the merits of the
whole performance, but confine myself principally to one
object. The actors are, indubitably, intitled to a very
considerable portion of praise. But, by your leave,
gentlemen (to speak the language of Hamlet), here's metal
more attractive. On finding that the part of Imogen was to
be played by Miss Hallam, I instantly formed to myself, from
my predilection for her, the most sanguine hope of
entertainment. But how was I ravished on experiment! She
exceeded my utmost idea. Such delicacy of manner! Such
classical strictness of expression! The musick of her
tongue! The Vox Liquida, how melting! Notwithstanding the
injuries it received from the horrid ruggedness of the roof,
and the untoward construction of the whole house; methought
I heard once more the warbling of Cibber in my ear. How true
and thorough her knowledge of the character she personated!
Her whole form and dimensions how happily convertible, and
universally adapted to the variety of her part.
A friend of mine, who was present, was so deeply impressed
by the bewitching grace and justness with which the actress
filled the whole character, that, immediately on going home,
he threw out warm from the heart, as well as brain, the
verses which I inclose you.
The house, however, was thin, I suppose for want of a
sufficient acquaintance with the general, as well as
particular merits of the performers. The characteristical
propriety of Mrs. Douglass cannot but be too striking to
pass unnoticed. The fine genius of that young creature, Miss
Storer unquestionably affords the most pleasing prospect of
an accomplished actress. The discerning part of an audience
must cheerfully pay the tribute of applause due to the solid
sense which is conspicuous in Mrs. Harman, as well as to her
perspicuity and strength of memory.
The sums lavished on a late set, whose merits were not of
the transcendent kind, in whatever point of light they are
viewed, are still fresh in our memories. And should these,
their successors, whose deportment, decency, and an
unremitting study to please, have ever confessedly marked,
meet with discountenance, methinks such a conduct would not
reflect the highest honour either on our taste or spirit.
The merit of Mr. Douglass's company is, notoriously, in the
opinion of every man of sense in America, whose
opportunities give him a title to judge--take them for all
in all-- superior to that of any company in England, except
those of the Metropolis. The dresses are remarkably elegant;
the dispatch of the business of the theatre uncommonly
quick; and the stillness and good order preserved behind the
scenes, are proofs of the greatest attention and respect
paid to the audience.
[signed] Y.Z.
|