[103] The kind of narrative which is presented on the stage ought to be marked by gaiety of dialogue, diversity of character, seriousness, tenderness, hope, fear, suspicion, desire, pity, variety of events, changes of fortune, unexpected disaster, sudden joy, and a happy ending.
[104] The original MS. of this Preface is among the papers at Blenheim, where there are also some rough notes for a Preface, e. g., "The fourth act was the business of the play. The case of duelling. I have fought, nor shall I ever fight again.... Addison told me I had a faculty of drawing tears.... Be that as it will, I shall endeavour to do what I cm to promote noble things, which I will do as well as I can."
[105] "The stupid and diabolical custom of duelling" (MS. erased).
[106] The Hon. Brigadier-General Charles Churchill, who lived with Mrs. Oldfield after Maynwaring's death (Egerton's Memoirs of Mrs. Anne Oldfield, 1731, pp. 67, 121).
[107] "To enquire what should not which does please." (MS.)
[108] Carbonelli, a violinist, who had then not long been in England, had a benefit in 1722 at Drury Lane Theatre. He published twelve solos, dedicated to the Duke of Rutland. Afterwards he became a wine-merchant.
[109] "Played admirably well." (MS.)
[110] "Some great critics." (MS.)
[111] Wags in the newspapers of the day pointed out that these words might be read as meaning that Steele was surprised at finding to be true anything that Cibber said.
[112] "The imitation of Pamphilus." (MS.)