LETTER XII.

_PLAYERS._

These are monarchs none respect; Heroes, yet an humbled crew; Nobles, whom the crowd correct; Wealthy men, whom duns pursue; Beauties, shrinking from the view Of the day's detecting eye; Lovers, who with much ado Long-forsaken damsels woo, And heave the ill-feign'd sigh.

These are misers, craving means Of existence through the day; Famous scholars, conning scenes Of a dull bewildering play; Ragged beaux and misses grey, Whom the rabble praise and blame; Proud and mean, and sad and gay, Toiling after ease, are they, Infamous[63], and boasting fame.

Players arrive in the Borough--Welcomed by their former Friends--Are better fitted for Comic than Tragic Scenes: yet better approved in the latter by one Part of their Audience--Their general Character and Pleasantry--Particular Distresses and Labours--Their Fortitude and Patience--A private Rehearsal--The Vanity of the aged Actress--A Heroine from the Milliner's Shop--A deluded Tradesman--Of what Persons the Company is composed--Character and Adventures of Frederick Thompson.