| Citation |
VGW(HU.772.101
16 Jul 1772:23 (1094)
London, April 15. Last night, between the Play and Farce at
Drury Lane Theatre, a disturbance arose, which continued for
a full hour. Mr. W----, it appeared, was in debt to the
managers a considerable sum of money, on which account they
had impounded all the cash received on his benefit night.
This the comedian did not like, and yesterday sent word that
he would not play, as he was arrested, and detained in a
spunging house, but desired that no apology should be made
of his being suddenly taken ill (the usual plea) as it would
be an egregious falsehood. After the play, Mr. Vernon came
forward, and informed the audience that Mr. W---- was
suddenly taken ill, and could not perform; upon which Mr. W-
-- instantly started up in the front of the upper gallery,
and informed the house that he was not ill, but in the
custody of an officer, and, if the audience would have
patience, he would inform them of the whole affair. A long
altercation ensued, the managers sent on Mr. Vernon
repeatedly, and, after much pro and con, Mr. W--- came down
and played his part of Sneak. The managers promised the
town a publication of the whole affair, and till it appears
it will be impossible to know whether they or Mr. W--- are
to blame.
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