[72] The Virgin Prophetess, or the Fate of Troy.

[73] Second edition. In this piece Bassanio (Betterton) is the most prominent character; and though the whole piece was converted into a comedy, Dogget is said to have acted Shylock with much effect, and without buffoonery. Granville gave the profits of the play to one who needed them, Dryden's son.

[74] This seems inaccurate. The author says it was well received.

[75] The Biographia Dramatica expressly says that it was with the profits of this play that she and her husband set up a tavern in Westminster. Whincop also seems to imply that the piece was a success.

[76] Clorimon.

[77] This is an assumption not justified by the facts. All of this chapter is a mere copying from Genest; and though Genest puts "All for the Better," and "The Patriot" last in his list, it is only because there is no record when they were produced.

[78] "Timon of Athens" was performed at Drury Lane, 5th July 1703.

[79] Scarcely accurate. Downes says that it was "a very good play for three acts; but failing in the two last, answer'd not their expectation," p. 46.

[80] "The Taming of the Shrew" also—5th July 1704.

[81] See Genest ii. 296, for copy of this edict.

[82] "Abra Mulé" is pronounced by Genest to be a fairly good tragedy. It was certainly very successful, for it was played fourteen times.

[83] This is most unfair to Cibber, whose comedies are particularly inoffensive.

[84] Incorrect. Cibber's doubts were dispelled by Mrs. Oldfield's playing of Leonora in "Sir Courtly Nice" at Bath two seasons previously. He wrote Lady Betty Modish expressly for her.

[85] 23d April 1705.

[86] The bill says, "Repairing and fitting up."

[87] Should be £5 for every acting day, and not to exceed £700 a year.

[88] It was played four times. Genest, ii. 370.

[89] Bowen came from Ireland about 1689, nearly twenty years before.

[90] In this season the prices for Boxes seem to have been 15s., 10s. 6d., and 8s.