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VGW(RI.773.065
12 Aug 1773:12, 13 (379)
[Essay on keeping good company taken from the Town and
Country Magazine] . . . Good company, says Theatricus, with
a tone of critical decision, where should it be found, but
amongst the beaux esprits. At the Bedford, the Shakespear,
the Beefsteak club; here you have sheer wit and pointed
satire, that set the table on a roar, and force you to be
good company whether you will or no. Softly, Mr.
Theatricus; here too I have assisted, but very seldom to my
satisfaction. Actors in general are the worst company in
the world. A quotation from a play, lugged in head and
shoulders, a shrug and grimace from a ridiculous part, a
hackneyed song, or still more jackneyed joke, for the most
part constitute their conversation, their wit, their humour,
and pleasantry; and I can never allow these retailers of
more than second hand conceit to make good company. . . [1/2
column more]
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