CHAPTER VII.

1798 to 1801.

Partiality of George the Third for Theatrical Entertainments--Sheridan's kindness to Grimaldi--His domestic affliction and severe distress--The production of Harlequin Amulet a new era in Pantomime--Pigeon-fancying and Wagering--His first Provincial Excursion with Mrs. Baker, the eccentric Manageress--John Kemble and Jew Davis, with a new reading--Increased success at Maidstone and Canterbury--Polite interview with John Kemble 76