University of Virginia Library

PREFACE.

IN the Absence of the Author of this Tragedy, the Editor cannot print this edition, which the curiosity of the Public has necessarily rendered a hasty one, without acknowledging in the Author's name, the claims which the Performers and Managers of Drury Lane Theatre have upon his attention.

To those who have witnessed the exertion of Mr. Kean's talents in the finest characters of the Drama, it is unnecessary to say, he in this Tragedy had opportunities, of which the Public rapturously testified how well he knew to avail himself.

It were to neglect a positive duty not here to pay a tribute to the performance of the part of Imogine, by a Young Lady, who will find it a noble, perhaps an arduous task, to realize all the expectations which her successful debût has excited.

To Mr. Holland, Mr. Pope, Miss Boyce, and the other Gentlemen and Ladies who performed it, as well

as to Mr. T. Cooke, the Composer of some very effective Music introduced into the Play, the Author's thanks are eminently due.