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POETRY.

DRAMATIC SKETCH OF KEMBLE.

robberies which she had ever read or heard | Georgian women may be pronounced exqui-bats, (peasants' huts,) in which he would of: I begged for mercy's sake that she sitely charming. Their features are regular, scarcely have courage enough to take up his would desist. In the mean while we arrived but their usual expression of countenance is abode for the night. The palace of Liscowa at Liscowa, and shortly afterwards crossed disagreeable. As they advance in life the alone retains its former aspect. The Prince the Volga, by the superb bridge which had lids of their enormous eyes turn black, and resides there during the greater part of the just been thrown across that river. This they are then absolutely frightful: their year. The amusements were suddenly susbridge, which shortened our journey by more white dresses bear a close resemblance to pended on account of the entrance of the than three wersts, is advantageously situated those worn by the French nuns. French army at Wilna and the Emperor for trade all the vessels are ranged on one There were several Tartar women at this Alexander's arrival at Moscow. By one of side, and the bridge is covered with mer- fair, but their appearance presented nothing those chances, which it is impossible to chandise of every kind, particularly iron, remarkable. I besides saw some Kirgui and foresee, the Emperor unexpectedly entered which is an important article of traffic in this Kalmuck children. It is no unusual thing Moscow one hour after my departure. We part of the world. We saw the new Bazaar; to see these children in Russian houses, were informed of this on reaching Macarieff; this was formerly a wooden building, but where they are richly dressed in the costume but I could scarcely credit the intelligence. the Emperor Alexander has built a superb of their country. All these different forms I brought with me from Macarieff various one of stone. Each range of shops is kept of dress, worn by women as well as men, articles of value, and particularly some Balm by individuals of one nation, and is appro- present a very pleasing and singular coup- of Mecca, which is extremely scarce and dear priated to particular articles of trade. The d'ail. The fair of Macarieff attracts an in-at all times, and which a Tartar procured for Chinese deal in all the productions of their finite concourse of visitors. The Russians me with considerable difficulty. It is a sovecountry; tea, nankeen, silks and Chinese-attend it either on business or for the sake reign remedy for the gout, and preserves the stuffs. One row of shops is filled with Tur- of pleasure; and foreigners out of curiosity. freshness of the skin until a very advanced kish and Persian scarfs, (the latter are I observed several French Marchandes-de-age; but for the latter purpose it must be much narrower and of finer texture than Modes, who had come from Moscow; they applied in the same manner as the women of those of Turkish manufacture; they are found it a profitable speculation, for the fair Asia use it. It is surprising that this branch worn as sashes and turbans.) The Greeks is visited by an infinite number of ladies. of commerce is not more extensive: the ladies deal in diamonds and pearls. On one side The Prince of Georgia, who is the chief of Europe would doubtless prefer a little phial parties of Siberski exhibit the furs and stones of the nobility, resides at Liscowa, where he of this balm, by which they might preserve of Siberia. The Tartars likewise sell shawls frequently gives splendid entertainments: the delicacy of their complexions to the and diamonds; but the article for which he may be said to perform the honours of richest pearls and diamonds; and gouty they are most celebrated is Tartar-soap, with this fair. He receives all the principal Rus- patients would probably consider it even a which they supply the whole of Russia. Isian nobility, all foreigners of distinction greater luxury than the most sumptuous repurchased soap from no less a personage and artists. His visitors cross the Volga in past. than Prince Achmet: it is sold here at the elegant barges which belong to him, and rate of fifty roubles per pound, which led me then go to sup at Liscowa, where the enterto conclude that what is sold at a low price tainments of the evening usually consist of elsewhere, cannot be genuine. It is so a concert and a ball. After having visited. powerfully perfumed that the skin retains the fair, the company return to the palace, the fragrance for a considerable time after during the heat of the day, to take a little it has been washed with it. The Russians repose before they join in the festivities of Orestes, Alexander, and Coriolanus. sell or rather exchange every kind of Euro- the evening. The celerity with which Ma- Endow'd by Nature for supreme command, pean merchandize; knives and forks are carieff is converted into a charming little See KEMBLE comes, the Monarch of the stage. Considerable articles of trade with them. town, seems almost the work of enchant- Uniting grace and strength, appears to join In Alexander, his majestic form, Many Russian Noblemen who have manu- ment: during the remainder of the year it factories on their estates, send goods on is a wretched village, scarcely habitable, His aspect is imperial like his port, Apollo and great Hercules in one. commission to the merchants who attend containing only a convent of monks, whose Such as might suit the sculptur'd front of Jove. festival was formerly celebrated at the period His ample forehead speaks exalted sense; at which this fair is now held. Temporary Upon his brow the fate of empires hangs; wooden houses are constructed and furnish-The lightnings in his eyes are wont to play, ed in a very elegant style; they serve as And leap forth, with the thunder of his voice, coffee-houses, Restaurations, and other places To strike and wither armies; and to make of entertainment. Here parties assemble to Cheap victory attend his flaming sword. sing, to dance, to play, and drink excellent But who can paint him in the Roman Chief, wines and liquors of every kind; they may Flutter'd the Volscians at Corioli.' He "who like an eagle in a dove-cote, likewise be provided with sterlets, soudak, Fate on his helm, all arm'd in shining mail and sturgeons, (the fish from which the Ca-I saw him, singly, like a Lion chaf'd vier is produced.) Finally, these houses By desperate Hunters, in his fury turn,present a continual scene of bustle, the ani- His stature seem'd of more than human size mation of which cannot be exceeded. The By rage enlarged.—Upon the Volscian Lord Russian, Georgian, Tartar and Kalmuck He, downward, shot a mortal burning glance, women are the only females who are visi-As wrathful fires are hurl'd from Etna's brow. The Persians are almost all handsome men, ble; all the rest are shut up in their husbut their beauty does not equal that of the bands' houses. These gentlemen, however, Circassians, Bachkirs and Teherkasses, (a do not scruple to show their gallantry to tribe of Cossacks, who live among the moun- females who are not under such rigorous tains.) The charms of the Persian wo- confinement as their own wives, and it would men are much extolled in Europe; the men be dangerous for a woman to venture out are however far handsomer, and their style alone during the evening. Whenever the of dress adds grace to the natural symmetry fair is at an end, the houses are pulled down of their forms. I saw several Georgian and the bridge removed; and should a trafemales; but they do not deserve their re-veller happen to visit Macarieff a month putation for beauty. If it be handsome to afterwards, he might almost fancy he had have eyes disproportionably large, and eye- dreamt every thing he had seen: he must brows which seem as though they had been make up his mind to live upon wretched stained with China-ink, then indeed the black bread, and would find only a few Kys

this fair.

The shops which are kept by the Turks are extremely large; they are encircled with Divans, and are decorated with the utmost magnificence. Their dresses are very rich and covered with embroidery; their girdles and turbans, (the latter of which are excessively large,) consist chiefly of Persian scarfs or pieces of Turkish silk. They offer to the ladies Sorbet and the Pastiles of the Seraglio, which they themselves constantly smoke. The Persians wear fewer gilt ornaments, and the form of their dress is different: their caps are high and their Cafetans short, with loose hanging sleeves.

Written and Printed in 1796.--After seeing his

His temples, with his clenched hands, he struck,
Aud echo'd back the appellation "Boy!"
While, loudly storming o'er the armed field,
But I do mock him, by this puling speech.
He strode, indignant, like the mighty Mars.-
As strong conceptions labor in the breast
This sorry painting would-but cannot, paint!
Though language cannot give the fancy birth-
He must be seen himself.-This shows him not;
But as a faint reflection shows the sun;
Or as a feeble breath a tempest makes;
Or as a shallow rill, in some green mead,
Strid by a truant boy, would represent
The copious flood of the majestic Nile.

W, C.

KEAN,

A DRAMATIC ALLUSION; WRITTEN IN 1814,

BUT NOW FIRST PUBLISHED.

Next comes the fiery Champion, whose high
powers

Claim ample scope and the full meed of praise;
Old Drury's glory and her sword and shield:
Of him and his proud' followers, a host
Celebrious, and oft beheld with pride,
Turning the tide of well-carn'd honor home,
Now speak we briefly ;-fit occasion soon
To land their gallant bearing in the field.-
Though not the first to hail his sudden light,
We, for a season, must reluctant pass

This new-rais'd Monarch, who, with Cæsar's
speed,

Came, saw and conquer'd the impassion'd

crowd:

So swiftly shot his fame from Isle to Isle,
One fleeting Moon beheld its rapid growth,
And the first sound of praise but serv'd to swell
The deep loud plaudits of the Nation's voice,
Palms, which o'er other toils, successive rise,
The tardy growth of long uncertain years,
Brighten, at once, upon his youthful brows:
Green buds and tender blossoms mingling fair
With full-blown honors, in one brilliant wreath.
So, where amid the Indian Ocean, far
Rises the earthly Paradise Ceyloon,2
Shedding rich odours, o'er the Eastern wave,
Within her winding vales and woody dells,
Sweet breathing cinnamon and citron groves,
Or, on the gently undulating slope

Of her green hills reflected in the stream,
The smiling Seasons hail the radiant morn.
While Winter from the mountain top looks
down,

And the brown elephant majestic moves,
Amidst the distant openings of the wild,
Spring, Summer, Autumn, led by wanton May,
Beneath the ruddy canopy of eve,
Together meet; and dance in airy rings,
Weaving their treasures in one garland wild,
For Youth and Beauty in the bands of Love.
W. C.

FAREWELL DINNER TO J. P. KEMBLE, ESQ. No event in common life has made a more lively impression of regret on the public mind than the retirement of Mr. Kemble, in the full and unimpaired vigour of his talents. The meeting on Friday, at Freemasons' Tavern, of the Amateurs of the Drama, to bid him farewell, was remarkable for the distinction and talent of the company. An assembly of men honoured for their rank, erudition, genius and character, of all political parties, of all the learned professions, of eminent Artists, Poets, Writers and Scholars, animated by one feeling of respect and affection, to do honour to a Gentleman who had contributed so essentially to their intellectual gratifications, and to whom the enlightened world is so much indebted for the splendid manner in which, by classic representations, he has illustrated the works of our immortal bard, was truly an honourable and delightful spectacle. The gallery presented also a beautiful display of women of the first fashion, who emulated the zeal of the convivial circle below, in testifying their gratitude to, and admiration of Mr. Kemble.

Earl of Mulgrave, Earl of Blessington, Lord the subject, be worse than superfluous—it
Erskine, Lord Petersham, Lord Worcester, would be presumptuous and impertinent in me
Lord Torrington, the Hou. General Phipps, to enlarge on that great combination of quali-
Mr. T. Moore, Mr. S. Rogers, Mr. T. Campbell, ties, natural and acquired, necessary to form
Mr. Crabbe, Mr. Croker, Mr. Heber, Mr. James a perfect actor. But if, following the object
Smith, Mr. Horace Smith, Mr. West, Sir Tho- for which we are here assembled, I were to
mas Lawrence, and all the other most distin- touch on the various abilities of my excellent
guished Members of the Royal Academy, who friend near me, what else would I be doing,
have ever found in the figure, the attitudes and but describing those natural qualities and ac-
expression of Mr. Kemble, studies for painting quired perfections which are indispensable in
and sculpture-together with all the other most the constitution of an accomplished actor-
eminent professional and literary men of the which can alone raise men to that high emi-
metropolis-while we know that the Earl of nence which Mr. Kemble so long enjoyed in
Upper Ossory, Mr. Tierney, Mr. Canning, and that profession, which gives to poetry so much
others of the old and private friends of Mr. force and effect-and which imparts to thou-
Kemble, were only prevented by unavoidable sands so large a portion of rational and inno
All his cent amusement (Loud applause).-For, I say,
circumstances from being present.
own professional brethren of both Theatres ex-as no person ever brought to the stage a greater
erted themselves as a Committee of Stewards, portion of those natural advantages, which re-
and wore an elegant medal, struck for the alize the idea of the poet, and afford assist-
occasion by Mr. Warwick, of the Strand; ance to the sister arts of painting and of sculp-
and the assembly was further rendered interest- ture, than Mr. Kemble, so, I will contend,
ing by the presence of M. Talma, the most that no man ever cultivated the dramatic art
shining actor of the French stage, who thus joined with greater assiduity, zeal, learning, and judg-
in the tribute paid to his friend, and who will ment (applause).-Gentlemen, it is quite un-
therefore be able to report to his colleagues necessary for me to dwell, as I have already
in France, how the lovers of dramatic science said, on those qualities which recommend an
and taste in England honour the professors of actor to public applause-because by your being
the delightful art.
here this day, you prove that you understand
them much better than I can describe them.
We have met here, not only because we feel
a perfect conviction of the great difficulties
Gentlemen, in pursuance of the object of which are attached to the study of this profes-
this day, I hoped to have had the honour and sion-but we have met here also because we
satisfaction of presenting to my friend, who rate highly those qualifications, which are ne-
sits beside me, the piece of plate which it is cessary to success on the stage, and which
your wish to bestow upon him, as an indica- my friend near me possesses in a pre-eminent
tion of the high sense you entertain of his abi-degree (applause).-Here, gentlemen, I wish
lities. But, unfortunately, I am prevented to mention a subject which is so immediately
from performing that grateful duty-the rich connected with the object for which we are
and beautiful work, designed for the vase, re- met, that I trust I may be allowed to interrupt
quiring time for its completion. Here is, how-your conviviality, by calling your attention for
ever, a drawing of the vase, which will be one moment to it. It has generally been the
handed round the room. I have also a copy idea of those who wrote on the profession of
of the inscription intended for it, which, if you acting-(particularly the poets)—and of one
please, I will read.

After the anthem of" Non nobis, Domine," and the usual toasts, the Noble Chairman said

His Lordship then read as follows:-
"To J. P. KEMBLE, Esq. on his retirement
from the Stage,

Of which, for thirty-four years, he has been the
ornament and pride;

Which, to his learning, taste, and genius, is in-
debted for its present state of improvement;
Which, under his auspices, and profiting by his
constant labour, most worthily directed to
the support of the legitimate drama, and
more particularly to the glory of SHAK-
SPEARE;

Has arrived at a degree of splendour and
prosperity before unknown;
And which, from his high character, has ac-
quired an increase of honour and dignity;
THIS VASE

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FROM A NUMEROUS BODY OF HIS ADMIRERS,
As a mark of their gratitude, respect, and
affection,

Was presented, by the hands of their President,

ON THE 27TH of June, 1817."
(The passages in this inscription, compli-
mentary to the genius and industry of Mr.
Kemble, were enthusiastically applauded.)

Lord HOLLAND continued. If, Gentlemen, it were not for the feelings which acLord Holland was in the Chair, and he had tuate you, and which influence myself, here I Mr. Kemble on his right hand, supported by might close-because I think, in this comthe Duke of Bedford, the Marquis of Lans-pany, composed as it is of so many gentlemen down, the Marquis of Abercorn, the Earl of who have pursued the arduous profession of Aberdeen, Earl of Essex, Earl of Harrington,

The Company of Drury Lane Theatre. 2 For Ceylon.

the stage with success, or who are qualified
to judge of scenic ability, it would be super-
fluous in me to descant on such a topic. It
would indeed, unable as I am to do justice to

more especially, whose name we all venerate, and whose loss we all deplore-(I mean the late lamented Mr. Sheridan)-speaking of the difficulties and the discouraging circumstances which attend the art--" that the materials of the actor's fame are more perishable than those of the poet's or the painter's." We have met, I think, this day, to remove some of the injus tice to which, in this particular, the profession has been subjected. Mr. Kemble has, by collateral measures, done more for the permanent prosperity of the stage, and consequently for the fame of its votaries, than any person who has gone before him.-For, as long as the British theatre exists-as long as the plays of Shakspeare shall be represented in this metropo lis, the result of his learning and industry will be seen in the propriety of the scenic decorations, in the improvement of the costume, in many matters, apparently of minor considera tion-but which, when effected, shew the man of research and of ability-display the mind of the scholar and the critic (applause).- I thought it necessary to touch upon this point, since it appears to be so nearly connected with the business of the day. I shall not trespass on you further. What we are met to do, I hope will be acceptable to my friend, and gratifying to us all. The feelings by which we are impelled are, I think, embodied in the inscription which has been read to you--they are those of gratitude, respect, and affection. Gratitude, for the delight he has so often imparted to us in crowded theatres-respect for him, as a scholar and a critic-and affection for his virtues, as a man of independent character and of upright conduct.

I am sure, with his usual good nature, that he
will accept of this address as a memorial of re-
spect and esteem. If I am not misinformed, a
gentleman present will recite an ODE, more ex-
pressive of my feelings than any thing I can
say to you."

This speech was received with a tumult of
applause. When silence was obtained, Mr.
Young recited, in a most forcible and feeling
manner, the following ODE, written by Thomas
Campbell, Esq. author of The Pleasures of Hope:
ODE FOR THE FAREWELL MEETING
IN HONOUR OF KEMBLE.
BY THOMAS CAMPBELL, Esq.
Pride of the British stage,

A long and last adieu!

Whose image brought th' heroic age
Revived to Fancy's view;

Like fields refresh'd with dewy light,
When the sun smiles his last,

Thy parting presence makes more bright
Our memory of the past;
And memory conjures feelings up,

That wine or music need not swell,
As high we lift the festal cup

To" KEMBLE, fare thee well!"
His was the spell o'er hearts,
Which only acting lends,
The youngest of the sister arts,
Where all their beauty blends.
For ill can Poetry express

Full many a tone of thought sublime,
And painting mute and motionless

Steals but one glance from Time;
But by the mighty actor brought

Illusion's wedded triumphs come,
Verse ceases to be airy thought,
And sculpture to be dumb.
Time may again revive,

But ne'er efface the charm,
When Cato spoke in him alive,

Or Hotspur kindled warm.
What soul was not resign'd entire
To the deep sorrows of the Moor?
What English heart was not on fire
With him at Agincourt?
And yet a majesty possess'd

His transport's most impetuous tone,
And to each passion of his breast
The graces gave their zone.

High were the task, too high

Ye conscious bosoms here,

In words to paint your memory
Of KEMBLE, and of Lear.
But who forgets that white discrowned head,
Those bursts of Reason's half-extinguish'd
glare,

Those tears upon Cordelia's bosom shed,
In doubt, more touching than despair,
If 'twas reality he felt.-

Had SHAKSPEARE's self amidst you been,
Friends, he had seen you melt,

And triumph'd to have seen. And there was many an hour

Of blended kindred fame,
When SIDDONS's auxiliar power
And sister magic came;
Together at the Muse's side,

Her tragic paragons had grown,
They were the children of her pride,
The columns of her throne;
And undivided favour ran,

From heart to heart, in their applause,
Save for the gallantry of man,

In lovelier woman's cause.

Fair as some classic dome,

Robust and richly graced,

Your KEMBLE's spirit was the home
Of Genius and of Taste.

Taste like the silent dial's power
That where supernal light is given,
Can measure Inspiration's hour,

And tell its height in Heav'n.
At once ennobled and correct,
His mind survey'd the tragic page,
And what the actor could effect,
The scholar could presage.
These were his traits of worth,

And must we lose them now;
And shall the scene no more shew forth
His sternly-pleasing brow?
Alas! the moral brings a tear,

"Tis all a transient hour below;
And we that would detain thee here,
Ourselves as fleetly go.

Yet shall our latest age

This parting scene review-
Pride of the British Stage,

A long and last adieu!

Mr. CAMPBELL said, he was so wholly unprepared, and so completely overcome, by the honour conferred on him, that he was quite incapable of returning a suitable answer, or of giving vent to the feelings under the influence of which he rose. The heat of the weather had also, for several days past, affected his health, and he was perfectly unable to make a speech, if he were inclined to do so; but he was sure the company would think better of him for ab staining from such a course. He had received an honour which he felt that he did not deserve; but he should ever reflect on it with pleasure, and he should ever participate in those feelings of enthusiasm which appeared to pervade the present meeting, in doing honour to the great ornament of the English stage. He should end here, if he did not know that there was more genuine poetry in the room than he could pretend to. But he saw a distinguished contem

The most heartfelt applause followed this re-porary near him, who ought to have assisted, or citation.

gone before him, in composing the Farewell Ode. Lord HOLLAND then proposed "The Health He should, at once, name him, if he were not of Mr. Kemble," which was received with en-sensible that the author of Lalla Rookh was thusiasm. present [lond applause]. He also took this op Mr. KEMBLE said-Gentlemen, for your pre-portunity of mentioning the Reverend Mr. sence here to-day, and the favour you have Crabbe, a Gentleman, who might be termed the done me in drinking my health, I beg leave father of modern bards. to offer you my most heartfelt and sincere acknowldgements.--Unused as I am to extemporaneous public speaking, it will not appear extraordinary that I should be a little embarrassed, in addressing an assembly in Mr. Fawcett, and Mr. Rae, as the Managers which I see so many persons highly valued for of the two Theatres, returned thanks in warm their genius and talents. I shall, therefore, and polished terms for the honour done them Gentlemen, be obliged to confine myself to in drinking their healths, which was proposed saying, that this is the greatest honour that by the Noble Chairman, and drunk with great could possibly be conferred on me; and as it is applause.

Lord HOLLAND, after alluding to the poets who honoured the entertainment with their presence, proposed, "the health of the British Poets, who adorn the present age."

This toast was drunk with long-continued plaudits.

a distinction that never has been shewn to any Lord HOLLAND expressed his satisfaction at
of my predecessors, I therefore feel, Gentle-witnessing the liberality of sentiment which
men, how far your favour exceeds every thing pervaded the two winter Theatres, rivals as
which my deserts could justly challenge [ap- they were in some respects. But he was sure
plause.] Gentlemen, the terms in which you that the liberality of Englishmen would not be
have been pleased to convey to me your ap- confined to their own country. They had now
probation of my professional exertions and of an Actor of a neighbouring nation amongst
my private conduct, leaves me nothing to say, them [enthusiastic applause]. His Lordship was
but that I am very proud you think so highly happy that they were all eager to express their
of me.-Your Noble Chairman, Gentleman, gratification at this circumstance. He should
has done me the honour of attributing to me therefore propose "The health of M. Talma,
much more merit than I can pretend to; his and success to the French Stage."
feelings have led him, I fear, very much to
overstate my services. But Í can truly say,
that, when he attributed to me a strong desire Mons. TALMA spoke as follows:-"Gentle-
to discharge my duty fairly in the different parts men, it is impossible for me in a foreign language
of my profession, as far as my honest endeavour to express my warm gratitude for the hospitable
to deserve that praise could be considered way in which you have this day received me
as entitling me to it-so far your Noble Chair- [applause], and the honour you have done, in
man has spoken of me only with justice [great my person, to the French Stage. To be thought
applause. The manner in which you have worthy of notice, on an occasion consecrated
been so kindly good as to step forward, in to my dear friend [shonts of applause], I esti-
order to hand down to posterity my exertions mate as one of the highest honours of my life.
on the stage, is too flattering to my feelings, As I cannot thank you with my words, you
not to affect my heart most deeply (here Mr. will, I hope, suffer me to thank you with my
Kemble was so much affected that he was
obliged to pause for some seconds)-to pos-
terity-that is too much to say-but I receive
the gift, Gentlemen, with affection-with gra-
titude; and it is pleasing to me to hope that I
shall still be remembered, even when that
mark of your kindness has faded away, since
my farewell has been sung by the Muse that
dictated "The Pleasures of Hope!" (applause.)
I now beg leave to propose "The Health of
our Noble Chairman, Lord Holland."

heart [plaudits]. Gentlemen, permit me to drink success to the British Nation, and to the British Stage." [thunders of applause]. (These few words, delivered in a clear and powerful voice, with great boldness of utterance, and vehemence of action, had a most surprising effect on the audience).

"The health of Mr. West, and success to the Royal Academy," was next drunk.

Mr. WEST returned thanks.

Lord HOLLAND then proposed "The health Lord HOLLAND, in returning thanks, de- of Mr. Young," who returned thanks in a neat clared, that it was most gratifying to him to speech, in which he declared, that to Mr. Kempreside in such an assembly, on such an oc-ble's example, he owed the success which he casion.

His Lordship then, after calogising the poetical genius of Mr. Campbell, the author of the Ode, proposed that Gentleman's health.

had heretofore met with in his profession. He expressed his opinion, that no man could fong remain a favourite with the public, who did not follow the steps so gloriously trodden by Mr.

Kemble-steps, which, although at an humble distance, he hoped he should ever pursue.

Lord HOLLAND then proposed "The health of Mrs. Siddons," which was drunk with great applause.

Mr. H. Twiss returned thanks.

A little before twelve o'clock, Lord Holland quitted the Chair, and the company soon after separated, highly delighted with the transactiens of the evening.

The Performers of Drury-Lane Theatre, anxious to record their testimony of respect for the advantages derived from Mr. Kemble's professional exertions, appointed a Deputation, consisting of Messrs. Rae, Johnstone, Holland, and Dowton, to wait on him, and to express their regret at his retirement from the Stage. These Gentlemen were introduced to Mr. Kemble on Friday, when Mr. Rae addressed him in the fol. lowing words:

"Mr. Kemble-Sir, Mr. Dowton, Mr. Johnstone, Mr. Holland, and myself, as a Deputation from all the Performers of Drury-Lane Theatre, have the honour to wait on you, to offer our tribute of personal respect, and at the same time deeply to lament your having with drawn yourself from the Stage, of which, for several years, you have been the pride and distinguished ornament. I am concerned that illness prevented my accompanying these Gentlemen for this purpose, on the evening of your universally regretted retirement. But, we trust, though late in the expression of our feelings, they will not be the less acceptable. As the Representatives of Drury-Lane Theatre, we proudly feel, that there you attained and perfected that high professional character, which is now deservedly drawing forth every mark of public estimation; and we beg to assure you, that we fully participate in those general feelings of admiration and respect. We truly feel that you have added a dignity to the profession, both by your genins in the art itself, and by the force of your example in private life. We take our leave of you, wishing you the enjoyment of your health, and with an earnest hope, that the remainder of your life may in every respect be as happy as it has hitherto been serviceable and ornamental to Learning and the Stage."

PROCEEDINGS OF LEARNED

SOCIETIES.

FRENCH MANNERS.:

L'ERMITE EN PROVINCE.

EXERCISES AND AMUSEMENTS OF THE BASQUES.
Hác celebrata tenus sancto certamina patri.
VIRG. EN.

*. The mineral waters, less renowned
than those of Bagniores and Barège, but
equally good, draw together at Cambo, to-
wards the end of the summer, a considerable
number of patients who come to seek health,
and of people in health, who seek pleasure:
this concourse of company naturally gives
occasion to numerous parties for field sports,
tennis, and dancing; which I cannot avoid
speaking of at some length: it is particu-
larly in their sports that the manners of
these mountaineers should be studied; plea-
sure singularly heightens the expression of
the physiognomy of the Basques.

The delight taken by the Basques in the pigeon chace,' (chasse aux Palombes) is almost equal to their love of tennis and dancing; this sport begins in autumn. I shall not be home to be present at it, but I ask M. Destere, and his answers bring absent objects before my eyes.

mountains.

country it seems reserved for children on the verge of adolescence, and for men declining towards old age; they very frequently play against each other, and the match is almost always equal; for the one not having yet acquired their full strength and the others not having lost all theirs, they are at an equal distance from their maturity: at the beginning of this struggle between fifteen and sixty, sixty has at first the advantage, but more frequently fifteen wins the game: this may be explained; the fatigue of a violent exercise which exhausts the strength of the old man who is at the close of his career, does but increase that of the child who is beginning.

All the wonders of this species of talent are shewn in the matches of the game à la longue.

Thousands of spectators who flock from all parts of the department, and sometimes even from Spain, assemble in a vast space prepared for this purpose. On these solemn occasions matches are made only between well known artists, and upon whose talents considerable wagers are laid; for it is not which is called the little chace and is car- quently a part of their fortune, which peoThere are two species of pigeon chace, one merely the vanity of their opinion, it is freried on in the vallies; and the great on the ple risk in these conjectures; M. Destere ashuntsman makes at the top of a tree a ca- francs deposited as stakes on these occaFor the first the principal sured me that he had often seen 50,000 bin of foliage; he conceals himself in it, sions. The walls of the gardens, the winprovided with a fowling piece and a blind dows, the roofs of the houses, the large pigeou; which he fastens on the outside with branches of the trees, near the scene of aca thread long enough to allow the bird to tion, are crowded with spectators of both fly to some distance from the cabin: other sexes and of every age; they begin by huntsmen hide themselves in the bushes: forming the jury of the game, which is comat the cry of the call bird which the hunts-posed of a certain number of amateurs, who man above excites by pulling the string to are already emeriti, and who decide in the which he is tied, the pigeons in the neigh-last instance, upon the disputes which are bourhood flock to the spot and are brought always ready to arise in the course of the down by the balls which are fired at them game. on every side.

The players must be all dressed in the The great chace requires considerable same costume, whatever be their respective preparation and expense, which is generanks or professions. They all wear a light rally divided among the farmers who assemnet on their heads, without any other dress ble for the purpose. All the high trees of than a shirt and pantaloons of the most the mountains on which they meet are cover- dazzling whiteness, and are only to be dised with cabins and hunters, who have no tinguished by the colour of their silk sashes, arms besides a kind of watchman's rattle. which they frequently tie up, and which The blind pigeons first do their duty: their they handle with a very particular grace: voices draw the others in great numbers, this quality with which the Basques are OXFORD.-Graduations.-B. D. Rev. W. at the same moment the hunters above let essentially endowed, is especially remarkDodson, St. John's, M. A. Rev. C. Barker, loose a sparrow hawk among them, and able in an exercise, in which strength, supTrinity; W. J. Hughes, Brazenose; D. Evans, sound their rattles; at this sight, at this pleness, velocity, are indispensable condiJesus; E. Lloyd, Christchurch; Messrs. T. noise, flocks of terrified pigeons drop down tions of a success which is hardly ever to be Twigge, St. Alban's Hall; W. M. Boyton, upon vast nets stretched upon the trees from obtained but in the prime of life. ditto; J. Mill, Trinity; and J. T. Coleridge, one hill to another; in this manner many Fellow of Exeter. B. A. Mr. R. G. C. Fane, hundreds are taken at once. Magdalen. A description of a party of this kind would make a charming picture; but my time is short, and fêtes still more local claim my attention.

The Rev. T. Silver, D. C. L. Fellow of St. John's, is elected Rawlinson Professor of AngloSaxon, vice Rev. C. Dyson, M. A. Fellow of Corpus Christi, vacated.

CAMBRIDGE.-The Annual Prizes given by the representatives in Parliament, have been adjudged to the Senior Batchelors, H. Robinson, Fellow of St. John's, and J. C. Franks, ditto of Trinity; and to the Middle Batchelor, J. J. Blunt, Fellow of St. John's-one prize re

maining undecided.

The Porsonian Prize for the best translation of one of our Classic Dramatists, into Greek verse, is adjudged to Mr. G. J. Pennington of King's.

The game of tennis is here quite a rage;
there are two sorts of it, called " le rabot,"
and "la longue." The first, which is the
second in rank, is played in a small space,
with a hand ball thrown against a wall; it
differs but little from the game played in
France in most of the public schools; there
is this peculiarity in it, however, that in this

Chasse, by Chace; though the words are not
We are obliged to translate the French
equivalent; the French being applicable to all
kinds of field sports, hunting, fowling, &c.

Light as a Basque, is said proverbially, and without suspecting the exaggeration which such an eulogium implies: the verse on the Stag pursued by the pack "L'œil le cherche, et le suit aux lieux qu'il a quittés."

is not less literally true in speaking of the young inhabitants of these mountains; the difficult to follow, than the trace of their flight of their ball in the air is not more footsteps.

of the motions excited in them by the It is still more difficult to form an idea different chances of the game. During this run about on every side to carry the news ebb and tide of fear and hope, witnesses to distant places. The roads for more than six leagues from the place are thronged with

THE DRAMA.

inquisitive people, who with beating hearts | served? It is not merely the feet or the makes their funeral ceremonies but the more interrogate these messengers. Denain, or arms, but the body of the Basques which is affecting; formerly they gave occasion to Fontenoy, did not excite a more lively in-put in motion by the monchico; and their violent acts of despair and even of fury which terest. In short, when talent, or fortune, souls are still more agitated: they talk, cry the government thought it necessary to rewhich mixes in all the affairs of this world, out, and sing as they dance: they fill the air medy by an ordinance which Mr. Depping has decided the victory, the vanquished with those cries, those bursts of the voice has preserved in his general History of Spain. think only of taking their revenge, and the with which they make the mountains revictors of new combats. These contests are echo when they cross the Pyrenees, and wish not mere play; they are considered as lead- to inform each other where they are. This ing to fortune and glory. species of rapid gamut is called ivrincina in | NEW THEATRE ROYAL, ENGLISH the Pyrenees, and incina in some parts of OPERA. the Alps. I think I remember that Silius The Manager of this house, in his anxious Italicus makes mention of it in his poem, endeavour to prove himself worthy of publis and that he tries to imitate it by the har-favour, has adopted the plan of giving three mony of his verses. pieces on each night. We presume that The words spoken extempore during the gentleman is the best judge of his own inmonchico, are the most faithful expression of terest; or we might suppose that to begin the kind of intoxication which this dance at half after six, and give only two pieces produces among the Basques. One might would dismiss the audience at an earlier make a charming collection of the passionate hour, and have a better effect on his treaexpressions, of the delicate praises which are sury. But we are not disposed to be angry suggested to them at this moment by friend- with him for giving too much to his patrons; ship, love, and filial piety. and we frankly admit that his earnest efforts to maintain an English school of vocal music, are deserving of general encouragement. On last Monday night, "My Uncle,"-" Two

Tennis has its heroes whose names have acquired a celebrity of which tradition, if not history, insures the duration. M. Destere has related to me the following anecdote on this subject: "the famous Parquins had been forced during the revolution to emigrate to Spain; he learned that one of his rivals in glory named Cruchatty, had announced a match at Tennis at Aldudes, on the frontiers. Parquins immediately causes application to be made to the magistrates of the place for a safe conduct; which is granted him, on the ground of the necessity of opposing to Cruchatty the only rival wor- The songs of the Basques are languishthy of contending with him. Parquins ar-ing, as in all mountainous countries, where rives, enters the lists, combats, gains the the abode of men in these high regions, victory, and returns to Spain amidst the ac- seems to dispose their souls to the most ten- Words, or the Silent not Dumb,”—and clamations of the crowd, who accompany der sensations. The language of the Basques, the revived Spectacle of " Don Juan, or him as far as the frontiers. in which almost all the substantives termi- the Libertine destroyed," were the enterIt is in these local fêtes that one should nate in a, which uses oriental circumlocu- tainments. If there be no great depth have seen only a few years ago, those dances tions to designate objects which command of plot or character in the first, it has a in which whole Communes took part, where love, respect, or fear, this language I say is share of easy pleasantry, and some whimall the ages of human life (from the moment more favorable than any other to the ex-sical situation,s without much false sentiment when one forms the first steps, to that in pression of melancholy. God is called JAUN- or affected wit. It affords Broadhurst an which one prepares to take the last) assem-GOICOA (Lord of above) Night GAB-A (ab-agreeable song; Bartley, a cast of character bled round the tombs to celebrate by the sence of light); Death ERIOTZA (cold mala- well suited to his blunt familiar humour; same dances, these fêtes at which three or dy); the Sun, EGRESQUIA (Creator of day); and shows off Wrench in a dashing, thoughtfour hundred generations had successively the Moon, ILARQUIA (dead light). less man of the town with goodness of heart attended on the same spot. The Basques are brave, but vindictive, ex- enough to resist the force of his ill habits. The people of these different ages in the or- cellent soldiers, especially for war in the It does not do much for the ladies; and der of their succession, and the sexes in two mountains, but independent, and difficult therefore the ladies are hardly blameable, if lines, repair, after divine service, from the to be kept under their colours, beyond the time they do little for it. But altogether it is church to the church-yard, preceded by the which they fix themselves. A great captain, sufficiently lively and amusing to while mayor of the commune, who, in the poetical who was a judge of soldiers, used to say that away an hour, and diversify the performanlanguage of the country, is called the Civil the Basques, so distinguished for their person-ces of an evening. In the second piece, Pontiff (Aonsso Apessa.) This Pontiff, (ex-al courage, were good for nothing in the line." Two words," almost all the characters are actly like Plutarch at Cheronæa,) with In the war with Spain in 1793 two half bri- background figures to a principal; and branches of laurel and olive in his hands, gades (commanded by a general, with whose Messrs. Bartley, T. Short, W. S. Chatterley, leads in cadence the solemn procession, which he conducts to the public square, to the sound of instruments peculiar to the country, among which are reckoned only the Tambour le Basque or tambourine, the flute with five holes, and a kind of violin without a bridge, on which the measure is marked by striking the strings with a short stick covered with leather. It is by means of these instruments, so poor in harmony, with which some rustic voices mingle at intervals, that labourers, shepherds, their mothers, wives and daughters, fill the heavens with hymns which seem to descend from them.

name the epithet of brave unites so natu-
rally that it seems to form a part of it,) two
half brigades I say, commanded by the brave
Harispe, after having performed prodigies of
valour, deserted almost to a man, in order
to go and see their relations and friends.
A few days after they all returned to the
camp, where their commander waited for
them without any uneasiness.

The proper names which are really Basque,
have almost all a meaning. Such as Sala-
berry, new saloon, Etcheberry, new house;
Etchecahar, old house; Ithurbide, road to the
fountain; Iaurguiberry, new castle; Uharte,
between two waters.

Beside

and Wilkinson, perform their respective parts with quite enough of the proprieties, to give effect to the whole. Mrs. Grove plays the Robber's Wife with a due degree of hobbling bustle and treacherous preineditation. Mrs. Pincot's intelligent eyes and countenance supply the neglect of the Writer. the general interest of the story, the admirable acting of MISS KELLY has given this piece a fixture in the public mind, not easily to be shaken. The routine of theatrical duties does not leave the choice of characters to the performers; and this actress is not responsible, if we sometimes have seen When they have got to the place, the her in parts but little adapted to the display whole population forms an immense circle, There is a higher degree of cleanliness of her finer qualities. A necessity, unavoid round which they march several times with in the dwelling houses, and in the clothing able in all theatres, often compels a manager measured steps. The march becomes pro- of the Basques, than in any other province in to assign characters to a performer, whose gressively animated: and at the moment France. The women are in general hand-talents are not in unison with them. She when its action becomes the most lively, the some, well made, lively, and agreeable. is versatile, and has not very frequently per tambourine gives the signal for the monchico, Religion among the Basques is not exempt formed parts in high life; but her chief a violent dance, in which a whole people from superstition; but this superstition, far powers lie in the pure simplicity of village can participate without confusion. Noverre from being intolerant, does not impair that life. In the unrestrained gaiety and brisk and Danberval have tried to give an idea of mild philanthropy, which they practise with-action of an innocent country-girl; where it on the stage of the Opera-house at Paris; out knowing its name; their respect for the the character is well drawn, and the situabut how can its national character be pre-dead and for the tomb is a real worship,which tions whimsical, her sprightliness is a flow

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