Paul KirklandHenry Miller.
John KirklandJames E. Wilson.
Simeon BrewsterWilliam Faversham.
Clarkson MacVeighW. H. Thompson.
Peter BogartW. H. Crompton.
Dick MajorCyril Scott.
Nell ArmitageViola Allen.
Mrs. KirklandMrs. D. P. Bowers.
MargaretOdette Tyler.
Dolly ChesterEdna Wallace Hopper.
AgnesEdith Marion.
TommyMaster John McKeever.
BessLittle Percita West.

Writing about this dismal failure, Belasco says:

“I had no doubt about the merits of the First and Second acts, but the Third Act needed slow and careful work in the writing. The fate of the piece depended upon one situation in this Act,—a period of about two minutes. With this situation made convincing, the play’s success was assured. On the opening night, everything went well up to this point. ‘“C. F.,” I whispered, ’if we pass this crisis we are safe.’ But it was not long before I whispered disconsolately, ‘“C. F.,” we have failed.’ And not waiting for the supper party I slipped away in the darkness and walked the streets all night.”

The next day Belasco earnestly advised Frohman to withdraw the play at once, and, after brief hesitation, this was done—“Liberty Hall” being revived at the Empire, and Belasco, presently, turning again to work on “The Heart of Maryland.”

Photograph by Sarony. Belasco’s Collection.

BELASCO, ABOUT 1893

FIGHTING FOR A CHANCE.