Mr. Barlow. At this theatre you will behold a constellation of talent.
Tommy. But pray, Sir, what is a "constellation"?
"Persons," answered Mr. Barlow, "have observed certain stars remarkable either for their brightness or position, or both. These stars, joined together, are termed 'constellations.' Here you have three Stars—Mr. Webster, Mr. Phelps, and Miss Furtado."
Tommy. Then these are, as you say, Sir, "remarkable for their brightness or position."
Mr. Barlow. Yes. And in time, no doubt, I shall be able to make you acquainted with the names and the appearance of all the Stars in London.
Tommy. Sir, I am much obliged to you, indeed. But of what use is it to know the Stars?
Mr. Barlow. There are some, and those very important, uses to be derived from an acquaintance with the Stars. Harry, do you tell Master Merton the story of The Free Admission and the Grateful Turk.
Harry was commencing the story when the curtain, being drawn up, disclosed to them the First Scene of On the Jury.
Mr. Barlow. This would indeed be a very good piece, but for faulty construction. Yet, for epigrammatic dialogue and dramatic situations, it has not, at this present moment, its equal in town. You have been silent, Tommy, for some time.
Tommy. Indeed, Sir, I never was more surprised or diverted; and as for one of your Stars, Miss Furtado,—Dear Heart! I protest I could watch her every evening with the greatest delight.