The representation of this tragedy was omitted in the Christmas holidays of 1819, at both the Theatres, for the first time.
When Mr. Ross performed the character of George Barnwell, in 1752, the son of an eminent merchant was so struck with certain resemblances to his own perilous situation, (arising from the arts of a real Millwood,) that his agitation brought on a dangerous illness, in the course of which he confessed his error, was forgiven by his father, and was furnished with the means of repairing the pecuniary wrongs he had privately done his employer. Mr. Ross says, “Though I never knew his name, or saw him to my knowledge, I had for nine or ten years, at my benefit, a note sealed up with ten guineas, and these words—“A tribute of gratitude from one who was highly obliged, and saved from ruin, by witnessing Mr. Ross’s performance of George Barnwell.””
This year, 1742, celebrated in dramatic annals as the year wherein Mr. Garrick first appeared on the stage, the theatrical season at Goodman’s-fields was 169 nights; Garrick played 159 nights; and, it is remarkable that the theatre was open on Christmas-day. The play was the “Fop’s Fortune,” and Garrick performed Clodio.
NATURALISTS’ CALENDAR.
Mean Temperature 38·40.