PUFF.
Egad, then we’ll lose no time.
UNDER PROMPTER.
Though, I believe, sir, you will find it very short, for all the performers have profited by the kind permission you granted them.
PUFF.
Hey! what?
UNDER PROMPTER.
You know, sir, you gave them leave to cut out or omit whatever they found heavy or unnecessary to the plot, and I must own they have taken very liberal advantage of your indulgence.
PUFF.
Well, well.—They are in general very good judges, and I know I am luxuriant.—Now, Mr. Hopkins, as soon as you please.
UNDER PROMPTER.
[To the Orchestra.] Gentlemen, will you play a few bars of something, just to—
PUFF.
Ay, that’s right; for as we have the scenes and dresses, egad, we’ll go to’t, as if it was the first night’s performance,—but you need not mind stopping between the acts— [Exit UNDER PROMPTER.—Orchestra play—then the bell rings.] Soh! stand clear; gentlemen. Now you know there will be a cry of down! down!—Hats off!—Silence!—Then up curtain, and let us see what our painters have done for us. [Curtain rises.]
SCENE II.—Tilbury Fort. Two SENTINELS discovered asleep.
DANGLE.
Tilbury Fort!—very fine indeed!
PUFF.
Now, what do you think I open with?