AND Journal of Belles Lettres, Arts, Sciences, &c. This Journal is supplied Weekly, or Monthly, by the principal Booksellers and Newsmen, throughout the Kingdom; but to those who may desire its immediate transmission, by post, we recommend the LITERARY GAZETTÉ, printed on stamped paper, price One Shilling. No. 598. REVIEW OF NEW BOOKS. A bride! It cannot be !-Though her unveiled face With silent stern reserve.-Is this like love? It is too natural,-deep subtle nature. Yes, yes, he loves her! Loves her whom I so well-so dearly love, That every female image but her own (After a pause) And he must have this creature of perfection! Must thy long course of wedded love and honour Thou art not form'd to sit within thy bower A thing of silk and gems and cold repose." The same speaker, in mentioning the cruel invaders of his country, the associates of the good De Creda, says finely— ment to so excellent a purpose? I hope, and | Like the compressure of a coiled boa, Loathly but irresistible. strongly hope, that good will be derived, even from such a feeble effort as the present; and The Bride; a Drama. In Three Acts. By that the time will come when the different Joanna Baillie. 8vo. pp. 112. London, 1828. races of the East will consider every human ⚫ Colburn. creature as a brother; while Englishmen, WHEREVER the honoured name of Joanna under whose rule or protection they may live, Baillie appears, we may look for what is be- will contemn that policy which founds its senevolent and virtuous, as well as for what curity upon ignorance. All past experience is is eminent in literature. The object of this unfavourable to the unmanly and ungenerous drama is that, being translated into Cingalese, maxim. And in the present time, when perit may be performed in Ceylon, and so ad- fect undisturbed ignorance cannot be obtained, dressed to a people whose moral intelligence the preservation of it in a middle state, to take and Christian instruction are most likely to no higher view of the subject, will be found to be promoted by this visible mode of appealing be a very precarious and expensive means of to their sense. The preface thus feelingly governing. But do I not wrong my countryspeaks of the design. men, connected with the East, in supposing "I heard with the most sensible pleasure, that the great proportion of them do entertain some months ago, of the intended translation such narrow views? Of this, at least, I am of my drama, called The Martyr,' into the thoroughly persuaded, that if such a supposiCingalese language, as a work which might tion does not wrong them at present, it will have some good effects upon a people of strong do so grievously some years hence: for the passions, emerging from a state of comparative ignorance I speak of is that which stands opbarbarism, and whose most effectual mode of posed to the useful, simple learning which receiving instruction is frequently that of dra- promotes industry and charity. Of those sumatic representation, according to the fashion perfluous fantastical acquirements which the of their country.—A gentleman, to whom overstrained refinement of modern plans of Ceylon owes the great benefits conferred on education seems anxious to extend to the lower a people by the pure and enlightened admi- classes of society, I do not speak." nistration of justice, and to whose strenuous The grand moral inculcated is that of the exertions they are also indebted for the in-forgiveness of injuries; to supplant, if possible, valuable institution of a trial by native juries, by that mild Christian doctrine, the strong entertained this opinion of the drama in ques- passion of the demi-barbarous state, which tion, and afterwards did me the farther honour places the highest glory in the indulgence of to suppose that I might write something of the terrible revenge. The drama is very simple. kind, more peculiarly appropriate to the cir- A ruler, Rasinga, falls in love with a moun cumstances of that island, which would natu- tain chieftain's beautiful daughter, whom he rally have a stronger moral effect on the minds has rescued from banditti; and, agreeably to of its inhabitants. Pleased to be made, in the the custom of the country, resolves to make humblest degree, an instrument for their good, her his second, or younger wife. Artina, his I most readily promised to endeavour at least first and devoted partner, is broken-hearted in to do so. And when they read this piece, or consequence of this event; and her brother, when it is brought before them in representa- Samarkoon, a young chief (who is also a lover tion, they will regard it as a proof that their of the fair mountaineer), way-lays the royal former judge and friend, though now absent escort, and appropriates the bride to himself. and far separated from them, still continues Rasinga marches against him and takes his to take a deep interest in their welfare. So fortalice by assault; loads him with chains, considered, it will not fail to make an impres- and orders him to be executed. Artina, his sion on their minds to which its own power own mother Montebesa, and Juan de Creda, or merit would be altogether unequal. But a Spanish physician, in vain endeavour to avert should the individual effects of this drama be his purpose; and Artina, attempting to save ever so inconsiderable, the profits arising from her brother, is only involved in his fate, and its publication in England may be the means also doomed to dic. In the end, her son, a of procuring translations into the Cingalese boy, Samar, by nobly determining to perish language of more able and useful works, and with his parent, forces his father to relent; make, as it were, a first, though a low, step and happiness is restored to all the parties. to an invigorating moral eminence. In these Such is the plot: the character of this boy is days, when many excellent men are striving, simply and forcibly drawn; and wherever he at the expense of health and ease, and all that appears, the interest is the deepest and most is valued by the world, to spread the light of affecting, though the other parts are depicted Christianity in the East; when the lamented with much talent. A few extracts will put it Bishop Heber, with the disinterested devotion in the power of our readers to judge of this. of an apostle, joined to the mildness, liberality, Samarkoon, on hearing a whisper of Raability, courteousness, and good sense, which singa's intention of marrying the "Bride," promote and grace every laudable undertaking, utters the following soliloquy :has proved himself to be the genuine and noble follower of his blessed Master,-who will not be willing to lend some aid and encourage « Hateful suggestions! base and vague conjectures, All false And yet they are upon my heart "Solitude in trackless deserts, on the bare summit of a rugged peak, Where locusts, ants, and lizards poorly thrive,Where birds of prey in dusky circles wing The troubled air with loud and clam'rous din, Rather than such associates." Were to an honest heart endurable, We have some difficulty in exemplifying the spirit of Samar, it is so mixed up with other dialogue; but the subjoined are striking traits. The first scene is where his mother expresses her wretchedness on learning that she is to have a rival queen. "Rasinga. Yes, dear Artina, Thou wert, and art, and shalt be loved and honour'd Artina. I have no skill in words, no power to reason: No love, no honour, if thy altered heart Rasinga. Nay, say not so, Artina; say not so. Artina. Nay, nay, but he will love us. So to implore thy pity, me and mineSo to implore thy pity, and in vain! [Sinks on the ground exhausted with agitation. Rasinga (raising her gently in his arms). Dearest Artina! still most dear to me; More fitting for retirement and for rest. Come also, children.-Come, my little playmates! Samar Thou dost not speak and smile and sport with us As thou wert wont: we're not thy playmates now. Rasinga. Thou art a fearless knave to tell me so." But the higher touch is where the child determines to share his mother's fate; and we cannot do better than quote the scene, as one of the best illustrations of the author's talents/ "Scene II.-A large court or open space, with every thing prepared for the execution of Samarkoon: a seat of state near the front of the stage. Spectators and guards disco vered. First Spectator. There is a mass of life assembled here: All eyes, no voice; there is not even the murmur Of stifled whispers.-Deep and solemn silence! |fires-if not in the full blaze which a more stirring subject might have excited, at least in Mihdoony. The three prepared for death abide your a fine glow and sheen of milder lustre, consignal. Rasinga. There are but two. Mihdoony. Forgive opposing words, there is a third. A volunteer for death, whom no persuasion [Mihdoony leads Samar to his father. Thou'rt ignorant; Second Spectator. Hush, hush! Artina, comes, and by And filthy lizards will around thee twine, her side Her son in the habiliments of one Prepared for death. This surely cannot be: It is impossible. First Spectator. I hope it is. Enter Artina and Samar, with Sabawatte on the one side of Artina. Alas, for thee, my noble, generous child! Artina. O what a prop thou wouldst have been to me! For death to prey upon!-Turn, turn! oh, turn! Samar. I came not here to turn; and for the path, And what it leads to, if you can endure it, Whilst thou art choking. It is horrible! Samar. The death that is appointed for my mother Is good enough for me. We'll be together; Clinging to her I shall not be afraid, No, nor will she. sistent with the end in view. We have been somewhat amused at the skill with which eastern words, phrases, and imagery, have been woven into the theme: they look as if written with a pen from the wing of an oriental bird of paradise, instead of the common gray goose quill of our northern regions. Seven Years of the King's Theatre. By John Ebers, late Manager. 8vo. Plates. London, 1828. Ainsworth. Ir any one unacquainted with the writer's name and character were to ask us who is the author of this book, we conceive we could give no more comprehensive reply than is conveyed in these words: "Mr. Ebers has been manager of the Opera House seven years, and has lost by it forty-five thousand pounds." The knowledge of these two facts would be enough to create an interest in the work, were other causes of interest wanting. It would also yield Rasinga. But wherefore wilt thou leave thy father, some grounds for forming a due estimation of Samar? Thou'st not offended me; I love thee dearly; I have no son but thee. Samar. But thou wilt soon. Thy new young wife will give thee soon another, In the autumn of 1820 the King's Theatre was left, by the sudden disappearance of Mr. Waters, the then proprietor and manager, huge hulk, floating without a pilot." The performers were turned adrift, the engagements were unsatisfied, and the theatre was Those who seized by the hands of the law. Rasinga (catching him in his arms, and bursting into tears) felt interested in the Italian Opera were at a My generous boy! my noble, valiant boy! Artina. Oh, my brave heart! my anguish and my pride, Ye shall not be divided." Good Sabawatte! hold him; take him from me. Sabawatte, I cannot, madam; and De Creda says, me with? Artina. Yes, dearest friend, there is it is my last. Their mother's place, and she will pity them. Sabawatte. My heart will burst in uttering such words. [Sabawatte motions assent, but cannot speak, My brother, my young Samarkoon, my brother, Thou top and blossom of my father's house! Samarkoon. Weep not, my sister-death brings sure Artina. Alas! ere that bright sun which shines so Shall reach his noon, of my brave father's race Samarkoon. Lament not, gentle sister; to have seen thee Of vexing thee-it would have driven me frantic. (to Samar, as first observing him) Boy, why art thou here? Mihdoony (who has kept guard with his spearmen over The hour is past, my lord, which was appointed The dénouement follows to the utmost extent of forgiving and gratitude. As examples of the author's lyrical powers, we quote the only two songs which are to be found in the drama: the first sung by Sabawatte, the faithful attendant of Terebesa; and the last an epithalamium on the entrance of the Bride into Samarkoon's castle. "The gliding fish that takes his play "Open wide the frontal gate, The lady comes in bridal state; loss; plans were formed for its re-establishment, and successively abandoned. In this emergency, when no one else would venture an undertaking a concern so apparently ruinous, Mr. Ebers, at the urgent request of certain distinguished subscribers and others, volunteered as manager, under the patronage of the King, and aided by a committee, consisting of the Lords Ailesbury, Mount Edgcumbe, Fife, Lowther, and Count St. Antonio. The great point of Mr. Ebers's first season was the establishment of the ballet on a footing vastly superior to what had been previously known in this country. The third or fourthrate gleanings from the Académie de Musique, which had hitherto constituted the only strength of the ballet, were discarded, or reduced to their original grades, to be succeeded by such splendid ornaments of the dance, as Álbert, A double esCoulon, Noblet, and Bias. tablishment was retained in the second part of the season; and the amount of the engagements of dancers alone was upwards of 10,000Z. The next two seasons were distinguished by the talents of Camporese, Curioni, Caradori, Zuchelli, Albert, Anatole, Barré, Mercandotti, and Paul, with others of less, though still considerable, merit, both in the departments of the opera and the ballet. At the conclusion of the season of 1823 the theatre passed into the hands of Mr. Benelli, who deserted it at the end of the following season, leaving the concern loaded with encumbrances, and a host of unfulfilled engagements, for some of which Mr. Ebers was legally liable, and by which he sustained a loss of several thousand pounds. With a hope of reimbursing himself, that gentleman now retook the Opera, which continued in his hands until the conclusion of the season of 1827, when his career terminated, though the losses of that year were considerably less than those of any previous year of his manage 1 The first year of his management the house was let to him at the moderate rent of 3180% the proprietor being thus reasonable in his demands, because nobody else would have the place at any rent whatever. But Mr. Ebers comes to renew his lease at the end of the first year, and Mr. Chambers demands a rent of 10,0004; and after this has been paid for four years, his assignees require and exact the enormous sum of 15,000l. per annum for the house! As Mr. Ebers's only hope of retrieving his past losses resided in the chance of better fortune in succeeding years, he was compelled to accede to these demands, though the unreasonableness of them has since been tacitly admitted, by the theatre being let to the present managers at not more than 80007. It is obvious that, with drawbacks like these, success was next to impossible; though such had been the manager's unwearied exertions to establish the character of the theatre, so great an improvement had consequently taken place in the relative amounts of receipt and expenditure, that had he been allowed to have the theatre during his last season at the rent now paid, the balance in his favour on that season would not have been less than 40007. The present managers of the King's Theatre, impressed with the hardships to which their predecessor has been subjected, have granted him a benefit at the house, which we hope may be as gratifying as possible to Mr. Ebers in its result, nate situation in life, elevated himself to such a materials for their meal. A good deal of ex- Another change of ownership has subsequently occurred, in the purchase of the theatre by Mr. Chambers, the banker, who had previously an interest in the house as a mortgagee to a considerable extent. Mr. Chambers bought the theatre from Mr. Waters, who commenced a suit in Chancery to set aside the sale; and Mr. Chambers having since become bankrupt, the cause is now pending between his assignees and Mr. Waters. With the information and experience derived from his management during the seven years 1821-27, Mr. Ebers has come to the task of This introductory chapter brings us to the "Taylor, entirely cut out of the concern, authorship as the chronicler of his own times time of Mr. Ebers's management. His famili- found great amusement in practising on the in the King's Theatre, and this task he has arity with the arcana of the place his know-fears of Mr. Chambers, by means of anonyexecuted, not merely with ability, but with so ledge of persons and things connected with it, mous letters, and otherwise prophesying the much spirit, so much liveliness, and so much must obviously render a man of half his tact inevitable ruin of Waters, and the consequent judgment, as to produce a work which must capable of writing a curious and entertaining loss to ensue to Mr. Chambers. I particurank among the most entertaining and inter- book. larly remember his addressing a letter to Mr. esting of the day-a work not merely valuable It is as inconsistent with our limits as with Chambers, informing him that Michael Kelly, (we give all due importance to dramatic matters) our usages to give any thing like a detailed then at Brighton, was lying on the point of for the curious information with which its account of the contents of works of this kind; death at an hotel there, and wished, while he pages are pregnant, but highly amusing from they are, indeed, of much too diversified and yet lived, to communicate to the banker some the anecdotes and morceaux piquants of per- miscellaneous a nature for such a course. We particulars respecting Waters. Mr. Chambers sonal history with which it is embellished. can only request our readers to run with us departed immediately for Brighton in a postPreparatory to entering on the period to through the volume, gleaning, as we go, such chaise and four, eager for information, and which the work avowedly relates, Mr. Ebers of its anecdotes as may give an idea of the dreading lest he should arrive too late. Alighthas given a rapid but elever sketch of the his- very amusing nature of the whole. Take these ing at the hotel, the first object that presented tory of the theatre since the rebuilding of the out of several relating to Mr. Taylor, so long itself to his sight was the vivacious Michael, house in 1789, which the delineation of the eccen- a party in the Italian Opera. not in the agonies of death, but basking on a tric character of Mr. Taylor, the then proprie"A party of friends, with whom this hu-shady balcony, with his cool bottle of claret tor and manager, renders very pleasant reading. mourist had been dining, had, by well-timed and pine-apple before him!" Mr. Taylor, who, from a somewhat subordi- raillery, driven him to invite them to break- Of Camporese we have the following men. fast on the morning of the day appointed for tion:* When we consider the immense total of loss which, laying the foundation of the new theatre. De- "Whilst in Paris I was introduced to Camby the subjoined statement, Mr. Ebers will be seen to termined to enjoy a joke at the expense of his porese, in the autumn of 1816, by Pucitta, have sustained, how little in comparison do the proceeds friends, and at the same time to be reimbursed at the house of the celebrated composer Paer. even of the best imaginable benefit appear, and how much do his claims to public support seem augmented! In- for his breakfast, he wrote a note, in the name She did me the favour to sing, and was accomdeed, when the nature of the Opera, as a subject of indi- of a common friend, to each of the gentlemen panied by that great master. The next place vidual speculation, is considered, a manager must be admitted to have a title to every aid in his misfortunes which who had engaged themselves to partake of his where I saw her was at the Scala at Milan. the public can grant him. In other countries the govern-déjeuner. The billet informed them, that the The people crowded nightly to hear her. She ment lends its support, and supplies the deficiencies: here supposed writer had learned that Taylor in- was an immense favourite; and many anecIt is not so; and surely the maintenance of the Opera, as the resort of the fashionable world and the aristocracy of tended to practise a joke on his visitors, by dotes were told of her kindness and the excelthe land, requires that those who undertake its conduct setting them down to empty dishes, and recom-lence of her disposition. An intimate acquaintshould be reimbursed, as far as possible, by the public of mending them to turn the tables on him, by ance waited on her one morning to make a a country ever regardful of the dictates of justice and liberality. We renew, in this place, the expression of our taking, each man, his provision with him, and request. In the hospital for the insane a man hope, that on Wednesday night the result of Mr. Ebers's upbraiding their host with his narrow conduct. was confined, literally fanatico per musica; he benefit may prove the actual influence of such a spirit as The advice was followed by the guests to a had lost his senses on the failure of an opera, The following is the statement compiled from Mr. man, every one sending or taking in his car- in which the labour of the composer was greater Ebers's work of the losses sustained by him in the course riage a supply of provisions more than adequate than the excellence of his music. This unforto his own wants, and the whole number re- tunate had by some accident heard of Camjoicing in the confusion with which Taylor porese, whose fame filled the city, and immewould, as they expected, be overwhelmed, diately conceived an ungovernable wish to hear Their astonishment was considerable, when, her. For awhile his representations passed on entering the breakfast room, with half, unnoticed, he grew ungovernable, and had to suppressed laughter at the anticipated joke, be fastened to his bed. In this stato Cam: they found the tables set out with the choicest porese's friend bad beheld him. She was we have alluded to. of his seven years: On the season of 1821.......................... £7,075 1822........... 5,367 1823....... 9,206 1824..... 5,771 6,150 1825....... 44,000 We read with interest the ensuing anecdotes respecting Velluti, a performer who is here spoken of with that respect and estimation to which his character and talents equally entitle him. dressing for an evening party when this re- with propriety as with the habitual dignity | do not believe a word of this story, but I give presentation was made to her. She paused a and self-possession of Camporese's demeanour." you what I hear; and as it was told me, so I moment on hearing it. Then throwing a Speaking of the last-named opera, he says:- tell it you." cloak over her shoulders, said, 'Come, then.' "Pietro l'Eremita, Lord Sefton, one of the Among many engagements for which Mr. 'Whither?' To the Ospedale.' But why? most competent judges of the day, pronounced Ebers made arrangements, is that of the fascithere is no occasion to go now-to-morrow, or to be the most effective opera produced within nating Sontag, whose correspondence, which he the next day.' To-morrow-no, indeed, if his recollection; and the public confirmed the gives, contains her assent to the terms offered I can do this poor man good, let me go in- justice of the remark, for no opera brought out her for the present season, so long ago as the stantly.' And they went. Being shewn into during my management had such unequivocal latter end of 1826. a room separated from that of the maniac success. It was, indeed, the strong point of "Wherever Sontag went," says Mr. Ebers, only by a thin wall, Camporese began to sing the season, to strengthen which every effort" the estimation of her beauty and her talent one of Haydn's melodies. The attendants in was made. The subordinate aids of scenery was the same. The sentiment excited towards the next room observed their patient suddenly and decoration were unsparingly resorted to, her in the earlier part of her career was that become less violent, then composed, at last he to give effect to this opera; and the nature of astonishment, which was succeeded by unburst into tears. The singer now entered, she of the story rendered these important. A bounded admiration. A crowd of worshippers sat down, and sang again. When she had gentleman well known in high life, indeed, attended her footsteps, and many were the concluded, the poor composer took from under not satisfied with telling me that I deserved romantic tales in circulation about her. One the bed a torn sheet of paper, scored with an well of my country, positively testified his ad- of these has denoted her as the destined bride air of his own composition, and handed it to miration of the opera by avowing a determina- of a German prince, another has bestowed her her. There were no words, and nothing in tion to propose the manager at White's. on an ambassador at the French court. A rethe music; but Camporese running it over, That pretty contralta, Brambilla, (of whom port of more interest, though perhaps of no sang it to some words of Metastasio, with such we have so often spoken with praise, and of greater authenticity, was retailed to me: its sweetness, that the music seemed excellent. whom, par parenthèse, we have here an excel-purport is as follows:-A few years ago, an "Sing it me once more,' said the maniac. She lent portrait, as we have elsewhere another attachment subsisted between the beautiful did so, and departed accompanied by his prayers enthusiastic one, which does justice to the Henriette and a young student of good family and the tears of the spectators." loveliness of Ronzi de Begnis,) is the subject and excellent character. His application, his of an anecdote equally brief, pointed, and learning, and his abilities, had gained him characteristic. the highest estimation at Jena; but his mis"Brambilla was certain of popularity, for her tress valued him more because he had mainbeauty ensured it, had her voice been less ex- tained an unsullied reputation, keeping free cellent than it was. 'She has the finest eye,' from the excesses in which other youths of "At Milan, Velluti was the idol of the said a gay cardinal, the sweetest voice, and the university too frequently indulged. In people; he was received con furore, and his the best disposition: if she is discovered to an evil hour, under the excitement proceeding fame spread on every side. A Milanese gen-possess any other merits, the safety of the from having obtained some academic honour, tleman, who had a rich uncle who was ill, met Catholic church will require her excommuni- the student was induced to indulge beyond his his friend in the street. Where are you cation.'' wont in the festivals of the table; and as one going?' To the Scala, to be sure.' 'How? Our next is an extract from a letter relating temptation yielded to, levels the path for another, Your uncle is at the point of death.' 'Yes, but to Mlle. Toso, now Madame Puzzi :he was led to play: unaccustomed to games, Velluti sings to-night "I have seen La Toso, whom, you tell me, he rose from the table a loser of five hundred "At Vienna, the place of his next engage- Signor Puzzi has engaged a friend of mine florins. The report quickly spread; but his ment, he was still more flattered; he was is acquainted with her parents, and speaks mistress received the information from a better crowned, medallised, and recorded in immortal highly of the whole family. Giacinta is a source - the lover himself wrote to her, with From Vienna his next remove was to beautiful woman, stately and graceful as a the confession of his error. I still love you,' Venice, where, I believe, he afterwards sang cedar. Her figure is magnificent, her counte- was the reply; but you are no longer the with Catalani. Velluti sang at Verona the nance full of pleasing expression. She has same, and we must not meet again. Farewell.' cantata, 'Il vero Omaggio' with wonderful suc- made many admiring cavaliers sigh, but all "An Italian gentleman at Paris, the firmest cess. Every body applauded except an old in vain; she seems proof against all the ma- item of whose creed was that none but Italians Austrian officer, who thought nothing good chinery of love. They tell a story of an ena- could possibly sing well, refused to admit that out of Germany. But is not this good?' moured swain, who received proof palpable of Sontag (whom he had never heard) could at they said to him. Yes, it is good but I her powers of resistance. This giovanetto all equal the singers of Italy. With great know a man at Vienna that would sing it as having employed the usual means of ogling difficulty he was induced to hear her. After loud again! After going the tour of the at church, verse-writing and letter-writing, listening five minutes, he rose to depart. But principal Italian and German theatres, Velluti with music and serenades, to no purpose what- do stay,' said his friend; you will be convinced arrived at Paris, where the musical taste was ever, scaled the wall of a garden, in which presently.' 'I know it,' said the Italian, and not prepared for him. Rossini being at this Toso was seated alone, about sunset, and, therefore I go.' time engaged at Paris under his agreement to availing himself of her being unattended, fell In mentioning a lady whose distinguished direct there, Velluti did not enter into his on his knees, and would have exhausted his qualifications are yet well remembered -- we plans; and having made no engagement there, eloquence in endeavouring to soften her hard mean Mrs. Hughes Ball-Mr. Ebers has done he came over to England without any in- heart, but she rose at his exordium, and pro- himself much credit by the very delicate and vitation, but strongly recommended by Lord ceeded towards the house. The disappointed discriminating tone in which he has touched Burghersh and other people of distinction gallant sprung before her, and attempted to on the union of that estimable person with detain her. She, inspired by the exigency of Mr. Ball. The account of her first introducDuring the representation of Pietro l'Ere- the occasion, seized his throat with both hands, tion to the stage is highly pleasing. mita, one of those not unfrequent altercations and held him, half strangled and black in the "During Lord Fife's residence in Spain, which enliven the business behind the scenes face, until her cries brought assistance, when where he had served in the progress of the occurred between Madame Ronzi de Begnis he was dismissed with as little ceremony as Peninsular war, he had become acquainted and Camporese, and is thus neatly detailed by could possibly be shewn to an inamorato. I with a widow of a respectable family, whose daughter evinced all the capabilities of a first"One part of the mechanical arrangements only failed. "The beautiful quartett in the second act, body of troops pass (in our case, they only ought to have rate dancer, united with all the charms of "Mi manca la voce,' was accidentally the cause passed) over a bridge, which breaking in the midst, they Spanish beauty-the darkly bright and imof a most inharmonious interruption of busi-are submerged in the waves. These troops being made pressive beauty of romance. At his lordship's of basket-work, and pulled over the bridge by ropes, unness. At a rehearsal of this opera, Camporese fortunately became refractory on their passage, and recommendation, Mlle. Mercandotti and her very commenced the piece in her character of Agia. sensibly refused, when the bridge was about to give way, mother visited England, where Maria, then On uttering the initial word, Ronzi de Begnis, of the arches took place, the basket-men remained very only fifteen years of age, displayed, on a single in a whisper not too gentle for Camporese to quietly on that part of the bridge which was left standing, evening, her powers in dancing the bolero of overhear, said, ' E vero!' a remark which pro-and, instead of being consigned to the waves, had nearly her native country. This was at the Opera; been set on fire. The audience, not giving the troops duced a retort courteous, somewhat more than due credit for their prudence, found no little fault with she afterwards danced a very few times at verging on the limits of decorum, though not this compliance with the law of self-proservation. In the Brighton, in the presence of the late Queen proceeding to the extremity asserted by ru-basket-men, which, en passant, (or en restant rather,) had Charlotte, and never without unbounded apfollowing representation of the opera, the bridge and inour, which would have been as inconsistent cost fifty pounds, were omitted,” plause. To perfect herself in her art, she be. verse. abroad." Mr. Ebers: A to proceed any farther; consequently, when the downfall came, by the same advice, a pupil in the schools We wish our limits would allow us to give bon, on the left bank of the Danube, who of the Académie Royale de Musique. At the some of the anecdotes of Rossini, Colbran, agreed to furnish us with a boat, steersman, time of which I speak she had not made her Pasta, Boisgerard, and other persons of inte- and crew, for the sum of twenty ducats, about public début in Paris, but all the city was in rest. We must now, however, take our leave ten pounds sterling, and to assure our arrival expectation of witnessing her performance, the of this work; but it would be wrong to con- at Vienna in four days, or four and a half at announcement of which was presently made. clude our remarks without acknowledging how farthest. The boats on the Danube, though After many fixings and postponements of the much we, and we are sure the public will join of various names and sizes, are nearly all of time of her appearance, she at last came out. us in the acknowledgment, are indebted to Mr. one shape. That which I hired is called, in Lord Fife wrote to Mr. Allan on her début :- Ebers for his very novel and entertaining the peculiar patois of the Bavarian boatmen, a 'Maria made her début under great disadvan-volume. The matter and the manner are weitz-ille, and is the sort of conveyance par tages, very much alarmed, and wearied to alike praiseworthy, and the defects too slight ticularly appropriated to private travelling. It death; but the result was most satisfactory to impair the value of the book. Judging from is about forty feet long, and composed of rough for an artist. I believe it is admitted there our own impressions, we think no one will deal planks, nailed rudely together, the ribs has not been so brilliant a début in the memory peruse it without sustained pleasure, and with being of natural branches, and caulked with of any one. The whole house rose and saluted an estimation of its author, as a sprightly, well- moss. In the centre is a kind of awning, or at the end; of course there are jealousies with-informed, and gentlemanlike writer upon a sub- rather hut, of the same unpretending materials. out number. The whole corps are displeased ject in which "all the world” takes an interest. It is flat-bottomed, as are all the craft upon and agitated; and the only thing they can this river, and, in short, is little more than a find to say is, that the house was packed, Descent of the Danube, from Ratisbon to large rude punt. Sails are unknown upon the when it had only the night before been known Vienna, during the Autumn of 1827. With Danube; it is therefore rowed by two men, certainly that she was to appear.' That Lord Anecdotes and Recollections, Historical and and steered by a third, with long clumsyFife did not exaggerate, appeared from the Legendary, of the Towns, Castles, Monas- looking paddles, tied to upright posts, upon communications of Lord Lowther and Mr. teries, &c., upon the Banks of the River. which every now and then water is flung to Bramsen. The Spaniard,' says the former, By J. R. Planché, Author of "Lays and make them work easy, and avoid ignition. ' dances again to-night. Her first début seems Legends of the Rhine," &c. London, 1828. The coche d'eau, or common passage-boat, is (from what I can collect) to have given general rather larger, and is called a gamsel, or a kellsatisfaction. I think she will be a trump for haimer. Those used for the conveyance of you; novelty, beauty, and talent, attract what you, as a manager, would desire, namely, a full house." " J. Duncan. IN addition to the many pleasant evenings which the public owe to Mr. Planché as the merchandise are known by the names of hochauthor of some fifty dramas, in almost constant nauen, klobzillen (facetiously termed vessels of representation at one or other of our theatres, the line by Professor Schultes), nebenbeys, We pass on to the subsequent passage, as well as for the agrémens which he has lent schwernmern, &c., all of the same fashion, which records Malle. Mercandotti's marriage. to the concert and drawing-room, by his Le-keelless, sailless, their plain deal sides daubed "Mercandotti, who had been gaining ground gends of the Rhine, and other poetical compo, with broad perpendicular stripes of black paint, till she was at the height of public favour, on sitions set to music, we have now to confess an their only ornament. Some of the larger are the first night of this ballet (the 8th of March) obligation of a different kind. His Descent of nearly one hundred and fifty feet long; and, took the part of the king's page in this per- the Danube, from Ratisbon to Vienna, is a in ascending the river, are towed, four or five formance, and looked and danced it admirably. volume of such varied merit and interest as together, by from thirty to forty horses. The -Among the number of hearts on whom the to ensure its popular reception for the morning drivers are called jodelen, and a more singular bewitching eyes of the fair Spaniard had made lounge, the study, and the travelling-carriage, set of beings can scarcely be imagined. In apan impression, was that of a gentleman well and, finally, its safe deposit on the library shelf, pearance they are something between the Engknown as a man of wealth and fashion, Mr. thence to be removed at all times when it is lish dustman and drayman; but the lowest of Hughes Ball. This worshipper, like many desired to pass a gratifying literary half or either of those worthies might pass for a scholar others, had long and assiduously devoted his whole hour. It is singular, that while we have and a gentleman by the side of a real jodel. attentions to Mercandotti; but she was one of a multitude of tours of the Rhine, and are as From the moment the Danube becomes navi. those rare examples that now and then occur to well acquainted with the Seine, the Po, and gable, till it is again chained up in ice, these ornament the female biography of the stage, most other continental rivers, as with the fellows never enter the humblest hovel, or mix who, in a situation of all others the most try-Thames, the Danube, a stream so replete with men of other callings, but even sleep upon ing to the best virtues of woman, preserve with interest, and its banks covered every the river's bank beside their horses. A miserunsullied the integrity of their reputation. On where with memorable remains, has attracted able superstition exists amongst them. They the 16th March I received a note in the follow- as little notice as the Irtis or the Obi. The believe that some of their number must every ing words :present is the first publication on the subject year be sacrificed to the Spirit of the Waters, with which we are acquainted; and, indepen-and, consequently, when an accident occurs, dently of its perpetual claims to consideration, they all scramble for the drowning man's hat, as connected with the picturesque in natural but never think of stretching out a finger to scenery, the curious in legendary lore and antiquarian research, and the peculiar in existing manners, possesses at this moment an accidental or temporary importance from the posture of political affairs, and the movements of hostile armies. 16 Mars, 1823. Monsieur,-Ma santé étant extrêmement dérangée, j'ai consulté ma médecin, qui m'a conseillé d'aller à la campagne pour passer quelque temps: je m'empresse de vous en prévenir afin que vous puissiez donner mon rôle à une autre personne. J'ai l'honneur d'être, monsieur, save him, whom they look upon as a doomed and demanded victim. Professor Schultes de clares that he once saw five jodelen, with their horses, precipitated into the river, when their MARIA MERCANDOTTI.' companions hastily cut the ropes, to prevent The honour of being Maria Mercandotti was the rest of the team from following, and drove one which she did not long retain. However, To afford our readers some taste of the ex-on, leaving the poor wretches to their fate." this plea of illness, which I had at the time no cellent mélange which Mr. Planché has placed Having descended to Hayenbach, in the Auspositive reason to doubt, was on the next before us, we shall simply extract examples of trian dominions, we are presented with the night of performance stated as the reason of his narrative, touching the several points to following view :Mademoiselle Mercandotti's non-appearance in which we have just alluded,-the style of trathe ballet. It was soon made public that Mer-velling, the landscapes, the legends, and the candotti had a more agreeable cause of absence modern aspect of the people. "Nearly facing Waldkirche rises the ruin of Hayenbach, or Kirchbaum, as it is called by the schiffers, upon the ridge of the long, lofty, and nearly perpendicular mountain which ter minates the chain on this side the valley, and forms a promontory, round which the river, suddenly and rapidly wheeling, completely shillings English, would have landed me in doubles itself, and enters a narrow defile, the the Austrian capital in about five or six days, romantic, and I may say awful, beauty of according to the weather. But as neither I which surpasses all description. So acute is the nor my companion was willing, for a slight angle here made by the Danube, that the ruin pecuniary consideration, to risk a serious di- of Hayenbach, though consisting of only one minution of the pleasures of the voyage, by a quadrangular and not very lofty tower, now crowded deck, a filthy cabin, bad company, presents its northern side to the eye in ap and miserable fare, I applied to a schiffmeister parently the same situation that it did its of Stadt-am-hof, the little fauxbourg of Ratis-southern side scarcely ten minutes before. than ill health, and that she accepted the hand "The regular passage-boat (says the author |