Chapter 23

THE SURPRISE.

The news--discussion in the town lyceum--occasioned by the dramatic society--the question "Are dramatical exhibitions beneficial to society?"--the evening of the debate--Nat goes--Mr. Bryant's remarks on the low origin of theatres--remarks of another on the immorality of actors--of another on the profane and vulgar parts of plays--seven thousand indecent sentences in English plays--King James the First--Addison's view--the class of persons who patronize theatres--Nat's excitement--Frank's question--Nat's attention--rises to speak--the surprise of the audience--his argument and eloquence astonished all--remark of Dr. Holt--reminds us of Patrick Henry--description of his first plea--his triumph--Charlie's view--Nat's argument changed no one's view--his eloquence they admired--invited to join town lyceum--the dramatic society dead 235-250