How long I lay, I may not say. At length I saw a form Beside me, and upon his brow there seem'd a gathering storm. "Where am I?" loud I scream'd, and paus'd. Again I rav'd, and cried, "And who art thou, thou evil one! who standest at my side? What spectre art thou?" "Come," said he, "young feller, hold your peace; You're on the stretcher now, and I'm the 'spector of police!"
AUTHORS AND ACTORS;
OR, ENGAGING A COMPANY.
A Dramatic Sketch.
Scene—The Manager's Room. The Manager discovered.
Manager.—Well! my theatre is built at last, and I have now only to think about opening it. My walls are so dry that they cannot throw a damp upon my prospects. My stage is all ready for starting; and every one, I am happy to say, seems inclined to take the box-seat. Everything now must go as smooth as a railroad. I have always heard that a manager must lead a devil of a life; but I am in hopes I shall be an exception to the rule, and that management to me will be a delightful pastime.
Fitz-Growl (without).—But I must see him.
Manager.—Who the deuce can this be?