3. The one who selects the play has a right to the best character.
4. The club shall meet once a week at the houses of members, in alphabetical rotation.
5. Whenever any member is unable to take his part and cannot attend the meeting, he must provide some one to take his character.
6. No new member can be admitted without the vote of the majority.
7. Each member must study his or her part well, before meeting with the club. If any two, or several, should have difficult parts together, they must meet privately and practise them.
At first they merely read the plays; but soon they partially acted them, and found them increased in enterest thereby. They always had their little librettos by them. Those who had ready memories rarely referred to them, or a mere glance would be sufficient. Finally they dressed in character, and admitted an audience composed of their relatives.
There is not necessarily anything awkward in having the books in hand. Such little pamphlets can be easily rolled up, and will scarcely be noticed. Under these rules they became familiar with the best plays, without wearying of them, and each member had an opportunity of consulting his own taste.
Before the winter closed the members of this club found they could so easily learn their parts, that they rarely were obliged to refer to their librettos. Constant practice improved their memories. Often those whose parts were associated together, would meet for private practice.
2.—PRIVATE THEATRICALS.
Private theatricals amuse a large circle of friends, and any club willing to undertake the presentation of plays deserve the thanks of their audience.