[285] [In “Ancient British Drama,” 1810.]
[286] Heywood’s words are these: “Therefore Mr Kyd, in the ‘Spanish Tragedy,’ upon occasion presenting itself, thus writes:—
“‘Why. Nero thought it no disparagement,
And kings and emperors have tane delight
To make experience of their wits in playes.’
These three lines are to be found towards the commencement of act v. of the ‘Spanish Tragedy.’”—Collier.
[287] It appears from Philip Henslowe’s papers, lately [1825] discovered at Dulwich College, that the “Comedy of Hieronimo” was played by the Lord Strange’s men the 10th April 1591.—Gilchrist.
[288] This word, which is variously spelt, as senet, cynet, sennet, sinet, signate, synnet, signet, &c., I believe to be no more than a corruption of sonata, Ital. See a note on “Julius Cæsar,” vol. viii. p. 9, and another on “King Henry VII.,” vol. vii. p. 236.—Steevens.
[289] This ceremony is still retained in the creation of a Knight of the Bath, and is generally performed by some person of eminence. See Anstis, “Historical Essay upon the Knighthood of the Bath,” 4to, 1725, and “Lord Herbert of Cherbury’s Life,” p. 54.
[290] [Old copy, from.] This passage ought either to be, “What news for Spain?” or we must suppose Spain misprinted for Portugal. The substitution would destroy the measure.—Collier.