This Tragedy is submitted to the publick with
the most grateful sense of the kindness with which
it has been honoured. It was originally intended to
be published as sent to the Theatre; but the omissions
and changes consequent on its being performed,
were numerous, The reader will now find it in
every respect a copy from the prompt book. The
imperfect lines which sometimes occur in the verse
have arisen from the determination to make the conformity
complete.
Seven plays upon the subject of Brutus are before
the publick. Only two have been thought
capable of representation, and those two did not long
retain possession of the stage. In the present play
I have had no hesitation in adopting the conceptions
and language of my predecessors wherever they
seemed likely to strengthen the plan which I had
prescribed, This has been so done as to allow of no
injury to personal feelings or private property. Such
obligations to be culpable must be secret; but it may
be observed that no assistance of other writers can be
available without an effort almost, if not altogether,
as laborious as original composition.
I am reluctant to select peculiar objects of praise,
when I found zeal and politeness so universal,—But
I must be permitted to add my gratitude to the publick
admiration of Mr. Kean's most masterly and
splendid performance of the principal character.—
Mrs. Glover, too, has claims on me which must not
be forgotten.—The play was introduced by her to
the Theatre, and its share of publick favour must be
largely attributed to the critical taste of this very
amiable and intelligent woman.
To the Sub-Committee and the Manager, I
also beg to return my grateful thanks.
4, Southampton-street, Covent Garden, December 9, 1818.
