Here Bernard's reception was
every thing a young author could wish: kind attention from the company,
and considerative hints for the improvement of his play, accompanied
with the good wishes of all for its success, left an impression of
gratitude upon the mind of the young author, that gave fresh inspiration
to his talents, and increased his confidence in his own abilities. At
Drury Lane the case was far otherwise; and the want of that friendly
attention which distinguished the rival company proved very embarrassing
to the early buddings of dramatic genius. Perhaps a slight sketch of
the scene might not prove uninstructive to young authors, or fail in its
intended effect upon old actors. Reader, imagine Bernard Blackmantle,
an enthusiastic and eccentric child of Genius, seated at the green-room
table, reading his musical farce to the surrounding company, and then
judge what must be the effect of the following little scene.
PROGRAMME.
Bernard Blackmantle reading; Mr. Elliston speaking to Spring, the
box-office keeper; and Mr. Winston in a passion, at the door, with the
master carpenter; Mr. Knight favouring the Author with a few new ideas;
and the whole company engaged in the most amusing way, making side
speeches to one another (see plate).
DOWTON. 'Gad, renounce me--little valorous--d----d annoying, (_looking
at his watch_)--these long rehearsals always spoil my Vauxhall
dinner--More hints to the Author--better keep them for his next piece.
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