[289] Robert Jephson's successful tragedy Braganza was played at Drury Lane in February, 1775, Mrs. Yates taking the part of Louisa, Duchess of Braganza. Gibbon is probably referring to this play in comparing Mrs. Holroyd to the spirited Duchess. The answer of "My Lady" is in keeping with the character of the Duchess as depicted in the play—
"I have a woman's form, a woman's fears,
I shrink from pain and start at dissolution.
. . . . . . . . .
Yet summoned as we are, your honour pledged,
Your own just rights engaged, your country's fate,
. . . . . Still would I on,
Still urge, exhort, confirm thy constancy,
And, though we perished in the bold attempt,
With my last breath I'd bless the glorious cause,