the passions are violent, and the speeches long, the performers must either spare their powers, or shorten their speeches. Mrs. Cibber chose the latter; by which she has been able to exert that force and expression which has been so strongly felt, and so sincerely applauded.

ISABELLA.

THIS play is built upon the agonies of a mind of keen sensibility, when known to have wedded a se cond husband while the first is living.

The power of SOUTHERN is the power of nature. No author, since Shakspere, possesses so sure a clue to all the labyrinths of the heart. His language is never tumid nor declamatory. What is to be spoken, therefore, at all times continues the impression, and the charm is unabating to the last.

Of a play to which the wonderful powers of Mrs. SIDDONS have so lately given its utmost force, the recollection of her exquisite performance will be the best eulogy of the author, who could thus furnish the scenes best adapted to her talents.

B

Dramatis Prfonae.

DRURY LANE.

Count BALDWIN, father to Biron and Carlos
BIRON, married to Isabella, supposed dead

CARLOS, bis

younger

brother

VILLEROY, in love with Isabella, marries her
SAMPSON, Porter to Count Baldwin,
A Child of Isabella's by Biron
BELLFORD, a friend of Biron's
PEDRO, a friend to Carlos

ISABELLA, married to Biron and Villeroy
Nurse to Biron

Men.

Mr. Packer.
Mr. Kemble.
Mr. Barrymore.
Mr. Palmer.

Mr. Phillimore.
Master Harlowe.
Mr. R. Palmer.
Mr. Alfred.

Women.

Mrs. Siddons.
Mrs. Booth.

Officers, Servants, Men and Women.

COVENT GARDEN.

Count BALDWIN, father to Biron and Carlos
BIRON, married to Isabella, supposed dead
CARLOS, bis younger brother

VILLEROY, in love with Isabella, marries ber
SAMPSON, porter to Count Baldwin
A Child of Isabella's, by Biron
BELLFORD, a friend of Biron's
PEDRO, a friend to Carlos

ISABELLA, married to Biron and Villeroy
Nurse to Biron

Miss Standen.

Officers, Servants, Men and Women.

SCENE, Brussels.

'Tis yours, ye fair! to mend a thoughtless age,
That scorns the press, the pulpit, and the stage!
To yield frail husbands no pretence to stray:
(Men will be rakes, if women lead the way).
To soothe-But truce with these preceptive lays;
The Muse, who, dazzled with your ancient praise,
On present worth, and modern beauty tramples,
Must own, she ne'er could boast more bright examples*.

* Addressing the Boxes.

H

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