Punch or the London Charivari, Vol. 98 June 7, 1890
ACT IV.--Don't you think the Conspirators are very simple-minded
people, not to look behind the curtain where _Raoul_ is hidden? What have the nuns to do with the blessing of the daggers? Wouldn't they be rather in the way in a conspiracy?
On what storey does the action of Act IV. take place, and what is the height from the ground that _Raoul_ has to leap when he jumps out of the window?
There used to be a Fifth Act, with a grand _trio_ and _chorale_, what has become of it? If played, does anyone stop to hear it? If not played, can audience sue the management, or demand their money back?
_Thursday._--Memorable for two _rentrees_ and one first appearance. _Rentree_ of Madame ETELKA GERSTER, _rentree_ of RAVELLI, and first appearance, on stage, this season, of Covent Garden Cat. Trying position for the sleep-walking heroine in bed-room scene, when the Covent Garden Cat (who was in front last Tuesday night, when she ran round the ledge of the pit tier in humble imitation of little LAURIE at Pantomime time) suddenly rushes from under the bed, and after nearly frightening into fits naughty little LISA BAUERMEISTER, who happens to be hiding there, walks with tail erect quietly across the stage, and makes a good exit R. 2. E. Count EDOUARD, in commencement-of-nineteenth-century hat and coat, finished off with trousers and patent-leather boots of date A.D. 1890, much amused. _Amina_ supposed to be walking in her sleep, can't possibly take notice of animal, but House in chuckles, as an audience always is, whenever the harmless and quite unnecessary cat appears upon the stage. _Rentree_ of RAVELLI, in first-rate voice. Everyone charmed with him, and with NED DE RESZKE. Signor RINALDINO an amusing _Alessio_, and Madame SINICO tunefully affectionate as the devoted and sympathetic Mamma of the Aminable heroine. Melodies of our childhood, delightful to hear them again; and the good old-fashioned Italian Opera terminations to the choruses admirably rendered.
_Friday._--"_Dr. Faust_, I presume?" I wasn't there. Opera went on, I believe, in my absence.
_Saturday._--_La Traviata._ ELLA RUSSELL at her best. Tenor MONTARIOL not quite at his best as that despicable character _Alfredo_. M. PALERMINI (why not "Old Pal"?) very good as _Giorgio Germont_. The magnificently-attired chorus enjoy themselves amazingly at supper in