After the Restoration, "Albumazar" was revived, and Mr Dryden wrote a prologue to it, which is printed in every edition of his works.
Although it does not appear to have been upon the list of acting plays, yet the reputation which it had obtained induced Mr Ralph to build upon it a comedy which, after ten years' application, was performed at Drury Lane in 1744, under the title of "The Astrologer." It was acted, however, only one night, when the receipts of the house amounted but to twenty-one pounds. On the second night, the manager was obliged to shut up his doors for want of an audience. (See advertisement prefixed to the play.)
It cannot be denied that "Albumazar" has not been a favourite play with the people in general. About the year 1748, soon after Mr Garrick became manager of Drury Lane Theatre, he caused it to be revived, and gave it every advantage which could be derived from the assistance of the best performers; but though admirably acted, it does not appear to have met with much success. It was again revived at the same theatre in 1773, with some alterations, and was again coldly received, though supported by the best comic performers of the times. The piece, on this revival, received some alterations from the pen of Mr Garrick, and was published in 8o, 1773.
DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.
| Albumazar,[225] an astrologer. |
| Ronca,} |
| Harpax, } thieves. |
| Furbo,} |
| Pandolfo, an old gentleman. |
| Cricca, his servant. |
| Trincalo, Pandolfo's farmer. |
| Armellina, Antonio's Maid. |
| Lelio, Antonio's son. |
| Eugenio, Pandolfo's son. |
| Flavia, Antonio's daughter. |
| Sulpitia, Pandolfo's daughter. |
| Bevilona, a courtesan. |
| Antonio, an old gentleman. |