1738
Jan 1, 3
|
THE DRAGON OF WANTLEY. A BURLESQUE OPERA. The MUSICK By Mr. JOHN FREDERICK LAMPE, And Performed at the THEATRE-ROYAL in Covent-Garden. [rule] Moderniz’d from the OLD BALLAD after the Italian Manner, by Sig. CARINI. [rule] The THIRTEENTH EDITION, with Additions. To which is prefix’d, the Original BALLAD (cum Notis variorum) by way of Argument, &c. &c. &c. [rule] ———— Ridiculum acri Fortius & melius. HOR. [rule] [woodcut] LONDON: Printed for J. SHUCKBURGH, at the Sun near the Inner-Temple-Gate in Fleet-street, 1738. (Price Six-pence.) [...] [woodcut] TO Mr. John-Frederick Lampe. Dear JACK, TO whom should I dedicate this Opera but to You, for whose Interest it was calculated, and at whose Request it was compleated: Many joyous Hours have we shared during its Composition, chopping and changing, lopping, eking out, and coining of Words, Syllables, and Jingle, to display in English the Beauty of Nonsense, so prevailing in the Italian Operas. This Pleasure has been since transmitted to the gay, the good-natur’d, and jocular Part of Mankind, who have tasted the Joke and enjoy’d the Laugh; while the Morose, the Supercilious, and Asinine, [iv] have been fairly taken in, so far as to be downright angry; they say ’tis low, very low; now (begging their Worships Pardon) I affirm it to be sublime, very sublime. —— It is a
Burlesque Opera: And Burlesque cannot be too low. Lowness (figuratively speaking) is the Sublimity of Burlesque: If so, this Opera is, consequently, the tip-top Sublime of its Kind. Your Musick, on the other hand, is as grand and pompous as possible, by which Means the Contrast is the stronger, and has succeeded accordingly. The following Prediction made by my Cousin Harry in the Year 1726, is now, I think, amply verified in Your Favour: Call not my Lampe
obscure, because unknown; He shines in Secret now, to
Friends alone: Light him but up, let him
in Publick blaze, He will delight not only, but amaze. CAREY’s Poems in 4to Pag. 115. [v] We must both confess our-selves obliged to the Performers, particularly to Mr. Salway and the two Miss Youngs, not forgetting Signor Laguerrini, and Mynheer Reinhold, who have given Life and Spirit to our Compositions, and Pleasure to the Publick; but in a more singular Sense we stand indebted to Mr. Rich, who received our poor disconsolate Dragon with Pleasure, after it had lain several Years dormant in the Repository, and under the Inspection, of the most wise, most learned, and judicious, ’Squire What-d’ye-call-him, Master of Drury-Lane Play-house. I am, Your
Affectionate Friend, And Fellow-Student, Pall-mall, Jan 3. 1738. CARINI. [6 ... 13] PUFF. The Opinion of a Grave and Learned Paedagogue concerning the following OPERA. EXCLUSIVE of the Pleasure
this Opera has given the Adult, I have
found it to be of infinite Use in
alluring little Children to learn to read, when other
Books have been found ineffectual. For which Reason I hereby exhort and advise all
Fathers and Mothers, Godfathers, &c.
to buy this Book by way of New-years Gift, as
they would an Anodyne Necklace for the
Improvement of this Generation, and the
Advantage of the future. P. ANDERSON. Westminster, Jan. 1, 1738. [14] DRAMATIS PERSONAE.
CHORUS of Nymphs and Swains. SCENE that Part of Yorkshire near Rotheram. |
Jan
3
|
AT the KING’s THEATRE in the HAY-MARKET, this Day, being the 3d of January, will be perform’d, a new OPERA, call’d FARAMONDO. Pit
and Boxes to be put together, and no Persons to be admitted without
Tickets, which will be deliver’d this Day at the Office in the
Hay-Market, at Half a Guinea each; Gallery Five Shillings. By HIS MAJESTY’s Command. No Persons whatever to be admitted behind the
Scenes. The Gallery will be open’d at Four o’Clock, Pit and Boxes at Five. To begin at Six o’Clock. N. B. The remaining Silver Tickets will be deliver’d to the Subscribers this Day, on paying the Subscription, at the Office in the Hay-Market, where Subscriptions are taken.[1] |
Jan
3
|
[Lucy Wentworth to the Earl of Strafford] London Janry: ye 3d. [1738] Dear Papa [...] the Plays began last night & was vastly full & the Opera’s are to begin to [198v] night &
I conclude will be as full. those that has heard the rehearsals commends ye Opera & ye new mans singing vastly, [...][2] |
Jan
3
|
[Lord Wentworth to the Earl of Strafford] London Janry: ye 3 1737/8 [... 196v ... 197r ...] Mr: Hamilton has been at the rehearsall of (Pharamond) the new opera & goes to it to night[.] to be sure it will [be] vastly full since there has not been one so long a time & a new person to sing into the ba<rgain?> [...][3] |
Jan
3
|
[Newburgh Hamilton to the Earl of Strafford, 3 January 1738] The P—— design’d to have a concert every friday night & desir’d Mr. Handel to make one, which he readily agreed to; but it came to the K—s ears, & he sent Mr. Handel an order, not to go near the P: I did not beleive [sic] it, till I had it this morning from his own mouth.[4] |
Jan 4
|
Writ after the
Rehearsal (in the Banquetting House, Whitehall) of the Anthem composed by Mr. Handell, for her late Majesty’s Funeral. Struck with the Beauties form’d by magic*
Dyes, From Group to Group, the Eye in Transport
flies; Till Seraph-Accents, solemn,
deep and slow, Melt on the Ear, in soft, melodious Woe. Such Charms the two contending Arts
dispense; So sweetly captivate each ravish’d Sense, We ne’er can fix; but must by Turns admire, The mimic Pencil, and the speaking Lyre. L. * The Paintings on the Cieling [sic] by Rubens.[5] |
Jan
7
|
[Lady Strafford to the Earl of Strafford] St James Sqr Janry 7th 1737/8 [...] the Prince as soon as Mr Hendle told him the King had forbid him to attend at his Royall Highness’s Conserts told Denoyer he shou’d no more teach the Duke & the Princess’s to Dance so a Satterday he went to ye Duke to let him know he cou’d attend him no longer. [...][6] |
Jan 7
|
[Lucy Wentworth to Lord Strafford] [“London Janry. ye 7th:”] Dear Papa [...] we are to be so happy, to goe to the opera next tuesday[.] ’tis mightly like’d, twas so aplauded that Mr Hamilton who would not doe less than another body when Mr: Hendel was in ye Cass, Clap’d ’till his arms ake’d. [...][7] |
Jan
12
|
[Lucy Wentworth to Lord Strafford, 12 January 1737/8] I was with ye Duchess of Buckingham in her box at ye opera last tuesday I like ye new man vastly, he’s very pritty & sings some songs as well in my Opinion as possible but I think some times carrys his voice too high, the opera is found fault with by some people but I think ’tis a very pritty one[8] |
Jan
14
|
MUSICK. This Day
is Publish’d, PROPOSALS
for Printing by Subscription
the Opera of FARAMONDO in Score, as it is perform’d at
the King’s Theatre in the Hay-Market. Composed by
Mr. Handel. I. The whole will be printed on good Paper. II. The Price to
Subscribers is half a Guinea to be paid at the Time of subscribing. III. The whole
will be corrected by the Author. IV. Those Lovers
of Musick, who are willing to subscribe, are desired to send in their Names immediately,
the Work being in such Forwardness, that it will be ready to be
deliver’d to Subscribers by the 4th of February next. Subscriptions are taken in
by John Walsh, at the Harp and Hoboy in Catherine-Street in the Strand, and at
most Musick-Shops in Town.[9] |
Jan
15
|
[Lord Wentworth to Lord Strafford, 15 January 1737/8] ... every body seems to like Pharamond the new opera vastly & they say Caffrielli is a much better person than Farinelli; but I do not hear any body likes his voice near so well as Farinelli’s[10] |
Jan 18
|
[Edward Holdsworth at Magdalen College, Oxford to Charles Jennens] Mr Pitt is
disappointed of the Subscription he expected, the gentleman whom he depended
upon being willing I find to have the book but not to pay for it. I fancy
honest Hurlothmmbo wou’d have had better success amongst our ingenious
Oxonians than Mr Handel’s Alexander.[11] |
Jan 19
|
[Lord Wentworth to the Earl of Strafford] LONDON, January 19, 1738. My Lord, [...] We was at Covent Garden Play House last night, my
mother was so good as to treat us with it, and the Dragon
of Wantcliff (sic) was the farce. I like it vastly and the musick is
excessive pretty, and tho’ it is a burlesque on the
operas yet Mr. Handel owns he thinks the tunes very well
composed. I conclude your lordship will go to it as soon
as you come to town, for every body generally commends it
and it has been acted 36 times already and they are always
pretty full. The poor operas I doubt go on but badly, for
tho’ every body praises both Cafferielli and the opera yet
it has never been full, and if it is not now at first it will
be very empty towards the latter end of the winter.....[12] |
Jan
21
|
This
Evening will be perform’d, At the King’s
Theatre in the Hay-market, The Opera of FARAMONDO. [...][13] |
Jan
24
|
This
Evening will be perform’d, At the King’s
Theatre in the Hay-market, The Opera of FARAMONDO. [...][14] |
Jan 27
|
MUSICK. On the 4th of February will be published, THE Opera of
FARAMONDO, in Score. As it is perform’d at the King’s Theatre in
the Hay- Market. Composed
by Mr. HANDEL. 1. The Price to Subscribers
is Half a Guinea to be paid at the Time of Subscribing. 2. Those
Gentlemen, who intend to subscribe, are desired to send in their Names immediately. Subscriptions are taken in by John Walsh,
at the Harp and Hoboy in Catherine-street in the Strand. Where may be had, the following Opera’s of
Mr. Handel’s, at Half a Guinea each.
In a short Time
will be publish’d, Alexander’s
Feast, an Ode, set to Musick by Mr. Handel. Subscriptions are taken in by the Author,
and John Walsh, at the Harp and Hoboy in Catherine-street in the
Strand.[15] |
Feb 2
|
[Lord Chamberlain’s Records] These are &c. to Mr: Christian Smith the Summ of Two Hundred and Thirty Four Pounds Thirteen Shillings and Seven pence, Office Fees inc[lude]d, for the hire of Instrumental and Vocal Performers of Music for the Anthem Composed for the Funeral of Her late Majesty according to the Annex[e]d List, certifyed by Mr. Handel. And &c. Given &c. this 2d Day of February 1737[/8] in the Eleventh Year of His Majesty’s Reign. To the Lord Hobart &c. Grafton Marginal entry: Mr Christian Smith for the hire of P[er]formers of Music for the Anthem at the Funeral of her late Majesty. £207:18:0 26:15:7 ________ 234:13:7 ======= These are &c. to Mr Christian Smith the Summ of Forty Pounds Twelve Shillings and Six pence, Office Fees inc[lude]d, being money Disburst by him for Copying the Anthem composed by Mr. Handel for the Funeral of Her late Majesty in the Several Scores of Musick for the Performers and for Royal paper and Binding and other Expences, as appears by the Bill here unto annext. And &c. Given &c. this 2 Day of Feb[rua]ry 1737[/8] the Eleventh Year of His Majesty’s Reign. To the Lord Hobart &c. Grafton Marginal entry: Mr Christian Smith money Disburst for copying Anthems &c. £36: 2:0 4:10:6 ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ 40:12:6 {614} These are &c. to the Reverend Mr George Carleton Sub Dean of His Majesty’s Chapel the Summ of Fifteen Pounds Eighteen Shillings and three pence, Office Fees incl[ude]d, being money disburst by him for fair writing Anthems and for printing a Great number of the Same for the Funeral of her Late Majesty as appears by a Bill of Particulars hereunto Annext And &c. Given &c. this 2d Day of February 1737[/8] in the Eleventh year of His Majesty’s Reign To the Lord Hobart. &c. Grafton Marginal entry: The Revd: Mr G. Carleton Sub Dean of His Maj[esty]’s Chapel for copying Anthems &c. £14. 2.0 1.16.3 ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ 15:18:3[16] |
Feb 4
|
MUSICK. This Day
will be publish’d, ready
to deliver to the Subscribers. THE whole Opera of
FARAMONDO, in Score.
As it is perform’d at the King’s Theatre in the Hay-Market. Composed
by Mr. HANDEL. Printed for and sold by John Walsh, at the Harp
and Hoboy in
Catherine-street in the Strand. Where may be
had, the following Opera’s of Mr. Handel’s, at Half a Guinea
each.
In a short Time
will be publish’d, Alexander’s
Feast, an Ode, set to Musick by Mr. Handel. Subscriptions are
taken in by the Author, in Brooks-street Hanover Square; and John Walsh, at the Harp and
Hautboy in Catherine-street [i]n the Strand.[17] |
Feb
25
|
HAY-MARKET. AT the KING’s THEATRE in the Hay-Market, this Day, February 25, will be perform’d an OPERA, call’d ALESSANDRO SEVERO. Pit and Boxes to be put together, and no Persons to be admitted without
Tickets, which will be deliver’d this
Day, at the Office in the Hay-Market, at Half a Guinea each. Gallery Five Shillings. BY HIS
MAJESTY’s COMMAND, No Persons
whatever to be admitted behind the Scenes. The Gallery will be open’d at Four
o’Clock. Pit and Boxes at Five. To begin at Six o’Clock.[18] |
Mar 2
|
Next Week
will be publish’d, And ready to
be delivered to the Subscribers, by the Author at his House
in Brook-street, Hanover-square; and by John Walsh in
Catherine-street, ALEXANDER’s
FEAST. An ODE. Wrote in Honour
of St. Cecilia. By Mr. Dryden. Set to Musick by Mr.
Handel. Note, Whereas
a Print of the Author is now engraving by an eminent Hand, and is very near finish’d; those Noblemen, Gentlemen and Ladies, who have done the Author the Honour of
Subscribing, may be assured, as soon as it is finish’d, it shall be sent to
their Houses, by John Walsh, the Undertaker of this Work for the Author.[19] |
Mar 3
|
DRURY-LANE. For the
Benefit of Master FERG, Who
performs the Punch and
Burgomaster, Scholar to Mons. Livier. AT the
Theatre-Royal in Drury-Lane, this Day, March
3, will be perform’d a CONCERT of VOCAL and
INSTRUMENTAL MUSICK. By the Best
Hands. Consisting of
several Select Pieces, compos’d by Mr. Handel and other Eminent Masters, and taken from the most favourite Opera’s. The Vocal Parts by Mr. Beard and Mrs. Clive, being
several Favourite Songs in Italian
and English. With several other
Entertainments by the Lilliputians, particularly The Wooden-shoe Dance by
Y. Master Ferg. And the Grand Ballet
call’d The Shepherd’s Mount. Likewise a Preamble on the
Kettle-Drums by Master Ferg, With
two new Minuets, and a Chorus out of Atalanta, for French- Horns and Trumpets, and two French-Horns to be
peform’d by two little Negro-Boys, Scholars to Mr. Charles,
who never perform’d before. Concluding with the
Anthem, God save the King, &c. Boxes 5 s. Pit 3 s.
First Gallery 2 s. Upper
Gallery 1 s. ’Tis humbly hop’d all those Gentlemen,
Ladies, and Artists, that were Admirers of his Father’s Paintings, will be so generously good, to
honour him with their Company and Interest, to assist his Widow, who is left with a Family of Four small Children, totally unprovided for. Tickets to be had, and Places taken, at Mr.
Moor’s, Box Book- keeper,
in the Play-house Passage; And of Mr. Hobson, Stage-Door-keeper. To begin exactly at Six o’Clock.[20] |
Mar 8
|
MUSICK. This Day
is published, Price
1 s. 6 d. THE
Favourite Songs in the Opera call’d ALEXANDER SEVERO, in Score. By Mr. HANDEL. Printed
for and sold by John Walsh, at the Harp and Hoboy in Catherine-street in the
Strand. Where may be had, I. The celebrated Airs from the Opera of
Faramondo, for a German Flute and Bass, Vol. III. Part VI. II.
Handel’s Chamber Airs from all the Opera’s for a German Flute, &c. in 19
Collections. III.
The whole Opera of Faramondo in Score, by Mr. Handel. IV. Alexander’s Feast, an Ode. Set to <M>usick by Mr. H<a>ndel.[21] |
Mar 9
|
John Rich to
the Duke of Bedford I was in hopes ’ere this of having Monys come
into my hands to have discharg’d the Rent due to your Grace, which has been
occation’d by Severe Losses by the Opera’s & carry’d by Mr. Handel &
my Self at Covt. Garden Theatre for these three Years last past.[22] |
Mar 16
|
[Edward Holdsworth at Magdalen College, Oxford to Charles Jennens] Wat Powel had told me before I
recvd. yrs yt Mr Handel had had
very good success wth one Opera. I shou’d be glad to know when He
brings yrs on the Stage, yt I may be more interested in
wishing him success. There is at present so much madness & confusion in
this nation in ev’ry respect, that I am not surpris’d that ’tis not all
Harmony even in Musick. […][23] |
Mar
18
|
This Morning was drawn piping hot out of the Oven, THE Pigeon-Pye, or a King’s Coronation: Proper Materials for forming an Oratorio, Opera or Play, according to the Modern Taste; to be represented in Opposition to the Dragon of Wantley. By an Admirer of Bad Composition, and
Author of — — Nothing. Georgius alter abest, Georgius alter adest. Every Body’s Verse. I Consul sole, console thy Soul. Cicero’s best Verse. Printed for W. Webb near St. Paul’s. Price 1s.[24] |
|
THE / PIGEON-PYE, / OR, A / KING’s Coronation, / PROPER MATERIALS / For forming an / ORATORIO, OPERA, or PLAY, / According to the / MODERN TASTE: / TO / Be Represented in OPPOSITION to the / DRAGON of WANTLEY. / [line] / By an Admirer of BAD COMPOSITION, / AND / AUTHOR of –——— NOTHING. / [line] / Georgius alter abest, Georgius alter adest. / Every Body’s Verse. / I Consul Sole console thy Soul. / CICERO’s best Verse. / [line] / LONDON: / Printed for W. WEBB, near St Paul’s. 1738. / [Price One Shilling.] [sic] [...] [Dedication] The Story, upon which I ground my Subject for an Oratorio, &c. (that you may lay your Censure upon the same Foundation) is of a Gentleman of Wadham College, who, to show his Taste, equipt himself to set out for a King’s Coronation; but having no Money was obliged to put off his Journey. However, to appear as if he had been present at that Solemnity, he ticked with the Cook for a Pigeon-Pye, and then confined himself privately in his chamber. About eight o’Clock that Night, being in the dark, he unfortunately kicked down a Chair. The Noise of this surprized the Gentleman that lived in the Chamber under him, and made him apprehend that Thieves were got into his Friend’s Apartment. Soon he got to the Door, and finding it locked, supposed that either his Bed-maker had got in with a false Key, and was stealing the tattered Remains of his old Furniture; or else that my Hero was in petto in his Chamber, and that he designed to exhibit a sham Coronation. To prevent either of these Impositions, he immediately sent for the College-Smith, who put a strong padlock on the Door— [6] The beautiful Catastrophe of this Stratagem you will find somewhere in the Oratorio, &c. My design in publishing this Story is just the same as your’s, when you read it——Nothing at all. And therefore, I hope, since others have frequently the same good natured Design in public Business, that they will excuse my publishing this Piece. [5-6] DIRECTIONS / FOR A / PREFACE. I AM to show that a Preface, or an Apology, is necessary to most Books, because they are good for nothing; particularly to Plays, Oratorios, Operas, Tragi-Comedies, Comico-Tragedies, and all other Species of Stage-Poetry. Thence I am to apologize for for [sic] my present Undertaking, and to shew that the Pigeon-Pye is indeed an irregular Scheme, according to the modern Draughts of Plays, but is an Exception only so far as other Plays are form’d upon wrong Plans, and sketch’d out by false Rules of the Drama. [11] A [23] Chorus of all three, Tutor, Pupil, and Bed-maker, at parting, to be set to Music by Mr Handel, before ’tis compos’d. [22-23] He is just going to take up the Crust of the Pye to steal the middle Pigeon, when Windmill surprizes him in the Fact.——Trip’s Submission, a pathetick Air—(as made for Senesini’s Voice)—–Windmill expostulates, in large bellowings, in the Montagnanan Strain. Trip allays his boisterous Passion in more dying Notes than before.——(Consult any Prison Scene in an Opera.) Thence an Amoeboean between both, (after Reconciliation) the Subject, Love and Pigeons——Trip dispatch’d for his Laundress, Taylor, and Shoe-maker—to equip him for his Journey.——A Soliloquy by Windmill, containing his various Schemes of appearing, as if he had been a Spectator of the Glorious Coronation.——He resolves at last to confine himself with the Pigeon-Pye in his Chamber.—A Song upon the Pleasures of Confinement.—The Thoughts stolen from Welcome, Welcome, Brother Debtor, &c. The Words by Angelo Cori, set to Music by Pescetti. Shoe-maker, Taylor, and Laundress’s Daughter, enter with proper Accoutrements for his Journey.——His à propos Conversation with each. His Affectation of being acquainted with Characters, and appearing a Man of Taste. A Duett between him and his young Laundress, upon clean Linnen. (Consult the [25] Reformers of Strada’s Voice for Miss Whettum’s Part.) The Style, the Taylor makes use of, ought to be Fustian; and the language of the Show-maker, fitted to the high Cothurnus.——Particular Care to be taken, that the following Episode (because not not [sic] closely jointed with the rest) be interwoven with a Mixture of natural Wit and Drollery. Some Logical Arguments offered by the Shoe-maker and Taylor, to prove the Excellency of their Trades, taken from common Topicks—Nakedness describ’d by the Taylor, in a Song—* à la Boschi. The Corthurnus [sic] and Grand Strut by the Shoe-maker. A Dithyrambick. The Music. Trumpets, Kettledrums, Hautboys, &c. [24-25] Miss Whettum, in a Pannic [sic], offers to go down Stairs, in a Hurry—because her Mamma had order’d her not to stay too long in Undergraduates Chambers——and not to be free but with the Senior Fellows.——Windmill makes Love to her——her Coyness——he assures her of his Affection. A short Epopoeia by him, being a History of the Oxford Fortunes married to Gownsmen, and their present happy Situation, &c. This set to Music by Valentini. [26] [At a Coffee-House] Windmill equipp’d for the Coronation. [...] Guzzlewight, with a Gill of Ale in his Hand, asks the Reason of Windmill’s being equipp’d for a Jounrey.——Their Discourse upon the Coronation——(Characters of Kings may be interwoven with this Part, which may make [28] the grandest Strut in the whole Oratorio. But special Care to be taken of Guzzlewight’s Sentiments; for he and his Servitor Trapes, were the only Tories that have been Wadhamites for several Years last past.) [...] No Oxford Jokes to be inserted in this solemn Scene, lest the Audience be scandaliz’d. [27-28] A Stratagem [33] of Jo. Trapes to put a strong Padlock on the Door, in order to catch the Thief; or mar Windmill’s Plot.——Whilst Trapes runs for Irons the College-Smith, Guzzlewight sings a Catch or two upon an Oxford Scholar, taken out of the Humours of Oxford, to be set to Music by J. Fred. Lampe, who can make Nonsense have it’s peculiar Charms.—Trapes re-enters with Irons, half-drunk.—Guzzlewight drinks to Irons in a Bumper, Old England. He pledges him, and sings a sweet Catch of Dr Aldrich’s Composition, upon good Liquor and Hospitality, before this Generation was born. A fine Recitative by Trapes, concerning better Times than ever were heard of, or expected.——A Chorus of all Three upon the present Times, to be set to Music by Dr Green *. N. B. To entertain the Audience, during their Absence, a new Concerto to be [34] compos’d by Bononcini, and play’d by the best Hands.——The Smith from within is to ‡ beat Time to the Music with hi Hammer, driving the Staples into Windmill’s Door and Post, to receive the Padlock. [32-34] SCENE III. Windmill’s Room. WINDMILL. The frightful Panic that Windmill is put into by the Noise without at his Door. This is to be represented only by his own Action, and by the Music conveying the very Ideas then in his Mind: In this Instance an Oratorio or an Opera exceeds all kinds of the Drama. Here Mr Handel must exert himself, and show how much greater the Pathos of Music is, than that of Eloquence. Shuddering Music proper here.———Then, all being husht, he breaks out into a Soliloquy———His Thoughts ebb and flow through most of the Passions.——First his [36] Fear of being discover’d——his sinking into Despair of Success.———A great many Breaks in his Speech——to be fill’d up by the Music.——Again his Spirits rise.——A fresh Flow of Hopes of getting out of College unseen, and of accomplishing his Design.———All this is succeeded by a violent Storm of Anger, swoln up with sworn Revenge against the Person, who had barricado’d his Door. Remember Montagnana. [35-36] After a proper Pause, (Music playing Sympathetics) Windmill, in a meditating Posture, recollects the Reason of this Disaster——Views the several Actions of his Life———Marks down his Management behind the Counter, (for which he was sent to Oxford) as the principal Cause to which this unhappy Turn of his Affairs is owing, and dreads lest it should be a Fund for more Evils in Life, and of his future Damnation.———He breaks off here in Sighs and throbbing Accents, whilst the Music plays something out of Handel’s Esther, not improper for a Person going to suffer. [...] At last he [38] resolves to unhinge the Door late next Evening, when the College was got out of the Gates a drinking.———His Joy upon this Discovery. A fine Air.———Send to Spain for the Favourite Music compos’d there for Farinelli’s Voice. N. B. Farinelli’ s Vice to be imitated but once, lest the Ladies should be so far influenc’d, by hearing him often tuned, as to send to Spain for a fresh CALAMITY to this Island. [37-38] Windmill having unhing’d his Door, steals, privately the back Way, out of College towards Heddington.——His Timorousness express’d by the Music.——He passes and repasses several times, over the Stage.——Music playing all his Paces.——To make this Scene entertaining, a fresh Hand must be sent for from Italy, to compose this Part. [40] Windmill coming into Moll’s, represents his Disaster.———A short Catch on a founder’d Horse——or a stumbling Nag. This must be just as the drawbing himself makes one or the other Story probable.———Moll Gurdon’s Lamentation for Windmill’s Misfortune, (to one of Handel’s Organ-Tunes.) [41] WINDMILL’s Return. The Music in this, and the first
Scene of this Act, is to answer the Expectation the Audience might have from
a new Opera. Though these two Musical
Scenes be mute, yet I conceive that the Beauty of Mute Action, or Dumb Shew,
such as is used in [44] the English Entertainments, might be
made more exquisite, and better understood (if you will credit Wollaston
upon the Significancy of Action) that all the Italian Flourishes of
Voices and mere Words, in the Hay-Market. [43-44] THE EPILOGUE. BEING AN Epilogue upon all
Epilogues; Or, a final Period to all
STAGE-PLAYS. Spoken by Miss JENNY
WHETTUM, Dress’d like one of the
Muses, in a tatter’d Garb, &c. Vide the Muses in Lord Cobham’s
Gardens. SHE
laments (in Piano) the Misfortune, that all Stage-Compositions labour
under, now they are subject to the Sense of an Act of Parliament——to the
Sense of the People in gross——Alas!——To repealable sense.—Whilst she is
recovering Breath a soft Air (by Festing, accompanied with a [50]
Violino Primo)———Then she drops into a melancholy Exclamation
(to the Sound of the Lute) how polite Sense will be abandon’d, lost,
forgotten, if the Law should call over Poetry into such Words only, as are
agreeable to Act of Parliament. She
rues the Day, when Prologues shall be made like to Preambles——Plots like Quirks——Catastrophes
likes Issues——and Epilogues like final Determinations in the Law. Here French Horns, German
Flutes, Cremona Fiddles, English Kittle-Dums, Welsh
Harps, and all the pathetic Instruments of Music, are to play a grace
Concerto———at the Conclusion of which, the Muse bids adieu to the British
Stage, and sinks into the Arms of Jo. Trapes and Windmill,
expiring with this sacred Wish. Let Pope ne’er write one Play, Nor Miller more than two. FINIS.[25] |
Mar
28
|
[Earl of Egmont’s Diary, Tuesday 28 March 1738] [...] In the evening I went to Hendel’s Oratorio, where I counted near 1,300 persons besides the gallery and upper gallery. I suppose he got this night 1,000 l.[26] |
Mar 28 [Apr 8 N.S.]
|
Le mardi 8 [Avril]. [...] Oratorio. L’aprés midi nous allames a l’oratorio [Handel’s benefit], c’est ainsi qu’on nomme le concert, il s’execute dans la Salle del’opera, vont [=dont] on avoit élevé le parterre qui étois par ce moïen de niveau avec le theatre et les [1002] premieres loges. On en use de même pour le bal. Nous fumes trés [sic] contents de la Musique Angloise. Ce Spectacle coute une demïe guinée, ainsi que l’opera et toutes les places sont égales. On nous avoit prevenus que toute l’Angleterre seroit a ce concert, et nous y trouvamer [sic] en effet une assemblée trés [sic] nombreuse, dont les Dames composoient au moins les trois quarts. C’est tout le contraire de nos Spectacles et de nos promenades ou le nombre des hommes surpasse toujours de beaucoup celluy [sic] des Femmes. Comme elles ne sont pas dans l’usage a Londres de mettre du rouge, que d’ailleurs le deüil qu’on observe dans cette Ville avec beaucoup de regularité, ne permet pas l’usage des pierreries, on peu bien s’imaginer que nous ne trouvames pas dans cette [1003] assemblé le meme lustre et le meme eclat que nous offrent les Spectacles françois, meme dans les deüils de Cour qui ne donnent pas l’ex[c]lusion aux pierreries: Presque toute la Cour étoit a celluy-cy, mais il est difficile de distinguer les personnes du premier rang de celles du Commun: La regularité du deüil repand une parfaite uniformité dans l’habillem[en]t. et dans la Coëffure des Dames[.] |
Tuesday 8 [April / 28 March O.S.] In the afternoon, we went to the oratorio; this is how they call the concert performed at the opera House, where the pit is raised on the same level with the stage and the first row of boxes (the same is done for the balls). We were very pleased with English music. This entertainment costs half a guinea, just as at the opera, and all seats [i.e. pit and boxes] are of equal value. We were told that all England would be in this concert, and indeed we found a very numerous assembly, at least three-quarters of which were ladies. This is the exact opposite to our Entertainments and public walks, where men far exceed the number of women. As the women in London are not accustomed to wear make-up, which in addition to the mourning widely observed in this city, does not allow the use of jewels, one can easily imagine that we have not found in this assembly the same lustre and the same splendour that we are offered by French entertainments, including Court mourning, which does not exclude jewels. Almost the entire Court attended this one, but it is difficult to distinguish persons of the first rank from commoners: the regularity of mourning imparts a perfect uniformity in the attire and hairdressing of the ladies.[27] |
|
On Tuesday Night last Mr. Handell had an Oratorio for his Benefit, at the Opera House in the Haymarket; their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales were present; there was the greatest and most polite Audience ever seen there, and it’s thought Mr. Handel cou’d not get less that Night than 1500l. It’s imagin’d there will be no more Opera’s after this Season, and the Italian Strolers will be sent home; for at last, the People of Quality seem to prefer Sense to Sound, and Nonsense.[28] |
On tuesday night last, Mr. Handell had an Oratorio
for his benefit at the Opera-house in the Hay-market; their Royal Highnesses
the Prince and Princess of Wales were present; there was the greatest and most
polite audience ever seen there, and it’s thought Mr. Handell could not get
less that night than 1500 l. It’s
imagin’d there will be no more opera’s after this season, and the Italian
Strolers will be sent home; for at last the people of quality seem to
prefer sense to sound and nonsense. LE.———Of which, the above
benefit of 1500 l. must be admitted to be a pregnant proof.[29]
|
It is computed that the Oratorio for the Benefit of Mr. Handel, the famous Composer of Musick, at the Theatre in the Hay-Market, on Tuesday Night last, brought him about 1000l.[30] |
Apr 1
|
THE Annual Feast of the Sons of the Clergy will be held
at Merchant-Taylors-Hall in Threadneedle-street, on Thursday the 13th
Instant. Tickets may be had at the
following Places, viz. The
Chapter and Child’s Coffee-houses by St. Paul’s; at Will’s and Tom’s, in
Cornhill; at the Guildhall, in King-street; at the Rainbow, by Temple-Bar; at
the Bedford, in Covent-Garden; and at Oliver’s, at Westminster. At Mr. Reddall’s, at the King’s-Arms Tavern
in St. Paul’s Church-yard; and at the Half-Moon Tavern in Cheapside. Stewards are provided for the
ensuing Year. Mr. Handell’s Great Te Deum, Jubilate, and Coronation Anthem, with a new Anthem by Dr. Green, will be vocally and instrumentally perform’d at Divine Service; and those Persons who bring their Tickets for the Feast will be admitted into the Choir.[31] |
Apr 5
|
[Earl of Egmont’s Diary, Wednesday 5 April 1738] [...] Went to see Dr. Courayer sitting for his picture to Mr. Abery. In the evening carried Dr. Courayer to the play called “Comus.”[32] |
Apr 7
|
[Earl of Egmont’s Diary, 7 April 1738] Friday, 7. — Went to Bertholdy’s concert [benefit at Hickford’s].[33] |
Apr 10
|
To-morrow Mr. Handel’s Te Deum Jubilate, and a new Anthem by Dr. Green, will be Rehearsed at St. Paul’s, and on the Thursday following the same will be performed before the Sons of the Clergy.[34] |
Apr 11
|
Tuesday there was an extraordinary Concourse of Gentlemen and Ladies of Distinction at St. Paul’s, to hear the Rehearsal of the Musick, which was perform’d this Day before the Sons of the Clergy. The Performance was excellent, and the Collection for Charity amounted to 266l. 1s. 8d.[35] |
|
Tuesday Mr. Handel’s Te Deum, and the new Anthem by Dr. Green, was rehearsed at St. Paul’s for the Feast of the Sons of the Clergy, at which were present divers of the Nobility and Gentry. The Collection amounted to 266 l. 1 s. 8 d.[36] |
|
On Thursday his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales sent by the Rev. Dr. Ayscough, his Clerk of the Closet, a Bank Bill of 50 l. to the Stewards of the Sons of the Clergy; and we hear a Deputation will be sent from the Managers of that Charity, to return Thanks to his Royal Highness for his Generosity to them. The Money collected on Tuesday and Thursday at St. Paul’s, and at Merchant-Taylors-Hall at the Feast of the Sons of the Clergy on Thursday, amounted to upwards of 904 l. which is about 48 l. more than last Year. […] The Effigies of Mr. Handel, the famous Composer of Musick, is going to be put in Vaux-Hall Gardens at the Expence of Mr. Jonathan Tyers.[37] |
Apr 14 [25 N.S.]
|
Faxhal Le même jour ou nous avions vû l’assemblée du Parlament [i.e. Vendredi, 25 Avril], nous allames nous promener a Faxhal, c’est une guinguette au dessus de ce qu’on connoit en ce genre. Elle est dans un village nommé Lambeth del’autre côté de la Tamise qu’on traverse pour y arriver. Ce passage se fait sur de petits bateaux a deux rames qui vont avec beaucoup de rapidité, et c’est un vray [sic] plaisir de [1220] passer cette riviere quand le tems est beau. Faxhal s’ouvre au commencement de may et tous les jours pendant quatre mois hormis le Dimanche, ce lieu est frequenté. Il est orné de charmilles forihautes et de bosque<?> agreables, on entre d’abord dans une espece de quinconge; dans l’entre deux des arbres on a placé des poteaux auxquels sont attachées des lanternes qui font succeder au jour une lumiere qui a quelque chose de plus touchant. On range alors sous les arbres un grande nombre de tables et l’on y sert tous ce quel’on peut desirer. L’oreille y est flatée autant quele gout car des Sept heures du soir on commence [1221] une symphonie charmante qui dure jusqu’a dix, les meilleurs morceaux de Musique y sont executér par les joüeurs d’instrumens [sic] les plus habites. M Hindel celebre compositeur dirige ce concert et fournit les pieces[.] Il est en grande veneration dans celieu, on luy á [sic] elevé une Statue de marbre, c’est un Apollon qui touche de la lyre. Ici les talents recoivent les memes honneurs qu’ailleurs on rend aux souverains. Les Muziciens se placent sur un lieu elevé, et le monde se rassemble pour entendre le concert autour de deux grandes pavillons ouverts de tous côtés. Quoi que ces lieux semblent ne respirer que la joïe, et qu’on y joïússe de la plus parfaite liberté, c’est une [1222] joyé tranquille, on ny voit point ces mouvements <&> de vivacité ni ce tumulte qui se rencontrens presque toujours dans nos fétes françoises. L’humeur pacifique des Anglois ne s’accommoderoit pas de ce desordre, tout y est tranquille, tout y est dans le meilleur ordre qu’il soit possible[.] Il est vrai que cét [sic] ordre, si on vouloit le troubler, se maintriendroit par le secours de gens preposés a cét effet qui se tiennent dans les endroits les moins éclairés du jardin. Ces memes lieux sont quelquefois des retraites propres a favoriser l’amour, mais c’est sans bruit et sans scandale, la jalousie n’y fait point naitre de querelles. Les hommes et les femmes dela premiere distinction frequentent ce [1223] jardin, et l’on y voit quelquesfois jusqu’a trois mil personnes. Cette affluence de monde forme un spectacle fort agreable. Il est rare qu’on y reste aprés onze heures du soir. |
Vauxhall The same day that we had seen the session at the Parliament [Friday 25 / 14 April], we went to walk at Vauxhall; this is an open cafe superior to those we know of this type. It is in a village called Lambeth on the other shore of the Thames, which one has to cross to reach it. The passage is made by two-oared boats, which go very quickly, and it is a real pleasure to cross this river when the weather is nice. Vauxhall opens at the beginning of May and it is frequented daily, Sunday excepted, for four months. It is decorated with charming bowers and agreeable shrubbery. One enters first in a sort of quincunx; between two trees there are placed posts on which they attach lanterns which replace daylight in a most enchanting way. Under the trees many tables are arranged upon which there are served everything one may desire. The ear here is pleased as well as the palate because from seven o’clock in the evening a delightful music begins, lasting until ten; the best pieces of music are performed by the most skilful instrumentalists. Mr Handel, the famous composer, directs this concert and provides the music. He is greatly respected in this place; they have erected a statue of marble in his honour; it is Apollo playing on the lyre. Here the talented receive the same honours that others offer to sovereigns. The musicians are placed on a raised platform, and the people assemble to hear the concert around two great pavilions with open sides. Although everything in this place seems to exude joy and one enjoys the most perfect freedom, it is a serene joy; one does not encounter the commotion and vivacity that are found in most of our French feasts. The calm nature of the English does not accommodate such disorder; everything is tranquil, everything is in the best possible order. It is true that, should one wish to disturb this order, gentlemen are stationed for this reason in the less visible areas of the gardens. These areas sometimes serve as love nests, but this is without scandal, and jealousy does not lead to brawls. Men and women of the first rank attend this garden, and one sees occasionally up to three thousand people.This multitude creates a very pleasant spectacle. Rarely does one stay here past eleven in the evening.[38] |
Apr 15
|
This Evening will be perform’d, At the King’s Theatre in the Hay-market, A new Opera call’d XERXES.[39] |
Apr 15 [26 N.S.]
|
26 [Avril; Saturday 15 April OS]. Le Samedi 26 nous allames a l’opera [Serse], l’assemblée étoit apeuprés dans le même gout que celle de l’oratorio: les paroles et la musique étoient Italiennes, les decorations sont mediocres, les recitatifs durs, les Acteurs generalement assés mauvais, la simphonie est bonne. |
On Saturday the 26th we went to the opera; the audience was approximately in the same taste as in the oratorio: the text and the music were Italian, the scenery is indifferent, the recitatives dry, the actors generally rather bad, the orchestra is good.[40] |
Apr 18
|
This Evening will be perform’d, At the King’s Theatre in the Hay-market, A new Opera call’d XERXES.[41] |
Apr 18
|
[Earl of Egmont’s Diary, Monday 18 April 1738] I dined at home, and then went to the Haymarket Playhouse, where a farce was acted called Eurydice First, an allegory on the loss of the Excise Bill. The whole was a satire on Sir Robert Walpole, and I observed that when any strong passages fell, the Prince, who was there, clapped, especially when in favour of liberty.[42] |
Apr 18
|
We are informed from very good Authority; that there is now near finished a Statue of the justly celebrated Mr. Handel, exquisitely done by the ingenious Mr. Raubillac, of St. Martin’s-Lane, Statuary, out of one entire Block of white Marble, which is to be placed in a grand Nich, erected on Purpose in the great Grove at Vaux-hall- Gardens, at the sole Expence of Mr. Tyers, Undertaker of the Entertainment there; who in Consideration of the real Merit of that inimitable Master, thought it proper, that his Effigies should preside there, where his Harmony has so often charm’d even the greatest Crouds into the profoundest Calm and most decent Behaviour; it is believed, that the Expence of the Statue and Nich cannot cost less than Three Hundred Pounds; the said Gentleman likewise very generously took at Mr. Handel’s Benefit Fifty of his Tickets.[43] |
Apr 21
|
The MUSICAL MIRROR. This is to acquaint all Lovers of Art, THAT Mr. Christopher Pinchbeck, at Pinchbeck’s Head in Fleet-street, having compleatly finished, with several Improvements, a very beautiful Musical Machine or Clock, begun by his late Father, which far exceeds any Thing he ever made of that Sort; proposes to shew it to the Publick at 2 s. 6 d. each Person; and at the same Time deliver them a Receipt, which acknowledges the said 2 s. 6 d. to have purchased the 3999th Part of the said Machine: To be Raffled for by Mathematical Wheels, in the Manner of Mr. Clay’s: The Place, Day, and Hour it is to be decided, will be advertised in this and the other Publick Papers. To make this curious Machine useful as well as entertaining, its Pedestal consists of a Writing-Desk, and Book-Case; the Case of both the Clock and Pedestal being intirely [sic] Plate Glass, finely Scollop’d, and ornamented with gilt Figures: In the Dial Plate is a Moving Picture, representing a Concert of Musick, with all the Figures in Motion: and to render the Musick more agreeable to Persons of all Ranks, besides some fine Pieces composed by Mr. Handel, and other Masters, it plays [a] Variety of known Tunes, as Jiggs, Minuets, Marches, &c. on the Organ, Flute, or Flageolet, either Single or in Consort; and imitates the sweet Harmony of an Aviary of Birds, to so great a Perfection, as not to be distinguished from Nature it self. N. B. It is now to be seen at his Shop at the Court of Requests, from Ten in the Morning ’till the Hour the Parliament rises, every Day, Saturdays and Sundays excepted. Note, Shares are to be had at the above-mentioned Places, in Fleet-street, and the Court of Requests; and likewise of Mr. John Pinchbeck, at the Jerusalem Coffee-House, Change-Alley.[44] |
Apr 25
|
HAY-MARKET. AT the KING’s THEATRE in the Hay-Market, this Day, April the 25th, will be perform’d a New OPERA, call’d XERXES. Pit and Boxes to be put together, and no Persons to be admitted without Tickets, which will be deliver’d this Day, at the Office in the Hay-Market, at Half a Guinea each. Gallery Five Shillings. BY HIS MAJESTY’s COMMAND, No Persons whatever to be admitted behind the Scenes. The Gallery will be open’d at Four o’Clock. Pit and Boxes at Five. To begin at Six o’Clock.[45] |
Apr 26
|
The same Day [yesterday] a Statue of Mr. Handel, in Marble, was carried over the Water, to be put up in Vaux-Hall Gardens.[46] |
May 1
|
Last Night the Entertainment of the Spring-Gardens, VAUX-HALL, was opened, and there was a considerable Appearance of Persons of both Sexes. The several Pieces of Music play’d on that Occasion had never [been] heard before in the Gardens. The Company express’d great Satisfaction at the Marble Statue of Mr. Handel, who is represented in a lo[o]se Robe, striking the Lyre, and listening to the Sounds; which a little Boy, carv’d at his Feet, seems to be writing down on the back of the Violoncello. The whole Composition is in a very elegant Taste.[47] |
May 1 [?1738]
|
[Edward Holdsworth in Bath to Charles Jennens] Dear Sir I have drank the waters for about
a week, & tho’ I cannot say yt if I have as yet found any advantage from
’em, yet they don’t disagree with me, wch the learned tell me is a
sufficient indication that they will in time do wonders. I have the honour to
live so near the Princess, that I cou’d almost kiss her hand out at window;
and I am lodg’d in the same house with a famous Presbyterian preacher, and
our chambers join so close, that when the spirit moves, I can hear him belch
& f—t as I am in bed. […1v] I fear it fares very ill with the
Prodigious during this Parliamenteering, but I suppose his Antagonists are
equally sufferers. […][48] |
May
1
|
Yesterday (May 1.) was publish’d, […] THE LONDON MAGAZINE: For the Month of April, 1738. […] […] 4. Poetry; […] to Mr. Handel; […][49] |
May 2
|
MUSICK. This Day are published, PROPOSALS for Printing by Subscription, THE Opera of XERXES. Compos’d by Mr. HANDEL, Which will be ready to be deliver’d by the 20th of May. Printed for John Walsh, at the Harp and Hautboy in Catherine- street in the Strand. Where may be had, To which is prefix’d a curious Print of the Author, Alexander’s Feast, an Ode. Set by Mr. Handel. Also the following Opera’s,
Also the Favourite Songs in the Opera of Parteno, by Sig. F. M. Veracini.[50] |
|
[transcription of a MS by Nathaniel Smith, Roubiliac’s student] Mr. Roubiliac…owed his introduction to Mr. Jonathan Tyers to his friend Cheere, with whom he worked before he ventured upon his own account….At the time Mr. Tyers had engaged in the Vauxhall-Garden speculation, he requested the advice of Mr. Cheere as to the best mode of decoration. “I conclude you will have Music,” observed Cheere, “therefore you cannot do better than to have a carving of an Apollo. What do you say to a figure of Handel?” “Good,” replied Jonathan, “but that will be too expensive, friend Cheere.” “No,” answered the sculptor, “I have an uncommonly clever fellow working for me now [i.e. Roubiliac], and introduced to me by Sir Edward Walpole; employ him, and he will produce you a fine statue.”[51] |
May 4
|
Viewing the beautiful Marble Statue (carv’d by Mr. Roubillac) of Mr. Handel, in Vaux-Hall Gardens. THAT ORPHEUS drew a Grove, a Rock, a Stream, By Musick’s Power, will not a Fiction seem; For here as great a Miracle is shown, HANDEL (fam’d Artist) breathing, tho’ of Stone.[52] |
May 4
[4th Earl of Shaftesbury in London to James Harris, 4 May 1738]
[…] I believe Charles Jennens will excuse your absence from the opera & our little musical entertainments with yourself & Clegg, which we often regrett the loss of. […][53]
May
9
|
This Evening
will be perform’d, At the King’s Theatre in the Haymarket, A new Opera call’d ARSACES.[54] |
May 11
|
Upon Handel’s Statue being placed in Spring-garden at Vauxhall. As in debate the tuneful sister stood, In what sequester’d shade, or hallow’d wood, Should Handel’s S[t]atue (Music’s master!) stand, In which fair art well mimicks nature’s hand, Thus spoke the God that, with enliv’ning rays, Glads the whole earth, and crowns the Bard with bays, “Here bid the marble rise, be this the place, “Tne haunt of ev’ry muse, and ev’ry grace, “Where harmony resides, and beautys rove: “Where should he stand but in Apollo’s grove?”[55] |
May 13
|
To the Author of COMMON SENSE. SIR, AS we have the Happiness to live in a Nation distinguished for Liberty, we ought to be alarmed at the least Attempt to restrain it, and endeavour, that every Individual should enjoy that Blessing in its utmost Latitude. In Consequence of that Liberty, we have a Right to complain
when our Fellow-Subjects[’] Property is invaded, and they are restrain’d from gaining their Livelihood in the ordinary Way, or even when we are denied those
Amusements and Recreations which have been always thought inoffensive, and which none but superstitious Beasts ever found Fault with. Wednesdays and Fridays in Lent, have, for several Ages, been appropriated for Fasting and Divine Worship, in the Churches of England and Rome, and the Clergy of both have always zealously recommended the strict Observance of them by their pious Examples; but those Days were never totally engrossed for Sacred Purposes, for Men were always allowed to pursue their proper Employments; and in our Days the celebrated Mr. Handell has often exhibited his Oratorios to the Town without any Prohibition; but every Body knows his Entertainments are calculated for the Quality only, and that People of moderate Fortunes cannot pretend to them, although, as Free Britons, they have as good a Right to be entertained with what they do not understand as their Betters. Whether Mr. Handell has a License from the Ecclesiastical Court, or from the Licensers of the Stage, for playing on Wednesdays and Fridays, I cannot tell; but if he has not, I must think the Restraint laid on the facetious Mr. Punch, from acting on those Days, seems a little partial; for he has at least as good a Pretence to the same Liberty, especially considering the submissive Remonstrance and candid Offers made by him in his Petition to the Licensers of the Stage. The Petition was presented early the last Lent Season; but, not having met with the desired Success, Mr. Punch determined to make his Case known to the Publick, and
for that Purpose sent his Petition to a Weekly Journalist to be printed, who acknowledg’d the Receipt of it, and promised to publish it in his next Journal, but has hitherto neglected it. However, the injured Mr. Punch hopes you will so far become an Advocate for him as to give his Petition a Place in your Paper. I am, Yours, &c. A. D. Dick’s Coffee-house, Temple-Bar, 10th April. To the worshipful
Licensers of the Stage. The humble PETITION of PUNCH, Master of the Artificial Company of Comedians in the Haymarket, Sheweth, THAT your
Petitioner, not being conceived in original
Sin, is not liable to the same Frailties and
Infirmities which Men of Flesh and Blood are subject to. That he has always led his Life with the
utmost Chastity and
Orthodoxy. That your Petitioner’s Ancestors have been always remarkable
for their Steadiness to the Church, and were [2] ever the
only Zealots. That they have
contributed very much to
the Extirpation of Hereticks, being nearly
allyed to the Family of the Faggots, who have been
celebrated in most Countries of Europe for propagating
the Faith. That in Consideration of the Merit of his Ancestors, he has hitherto
been excused the strict Observance of the Canon
Law, as to Mortifications and Abstinence from
innocent Amusements. That your Petitioner, having a numerous Family, in order for
their Support, is obliged to entertain the Publick in a
facetious Way at a reasonable Price; and your
Petitioner hoped, as he had always behaved with all possible
Decency and Regard both to the Government and
established Church, that he should have every Day, except Sunday,
to acquire an honest Livelihood. But your Petitioner, having lately prepared an Entertainment
for all well disposed Guests, received a threatning
Letter, that in Case he dared act on Wednesdays or Fridays,
he should be excommunicated, and his Body
turned into Tobacco-Stoppers for the Use of the R———d
Brethren. Your Petitioner, therefore, humbly prays, that the said
Injunction may be taken off for the future, in Consideration
of which he promises, that he will as much as in him
lies act with the greatest Zeal towards the Government
established by Law, in every Thing except the drinking
of Bumpers to it, which he desires to be excused,
being descended from sober and honest Parents, and
never accustomed to any Intemperance. And your
Petitioner further promises, that the Law shall not be
put in Force against you, for the said threatning
Letter; and that you shall have every Tenth Night for
your Benefit, and make whatever Rules and Ordinances
you shall think fit, which shall be faithfully observed,
notwithstanding any Prohibition to the contrary. And
your Petitioner shall ever pray, &c. As Oratorio’s have a Sanction for being founded upon Scripture History, and on that Account are suffered to be exhibited on Wednesdays and Fridays in Lent, Mr. Punch intends to divert the Town the ensuing Lent with several entertaining Pieces of the same kind, particularly, the History of Bell and the Dragon, and the Life and Death of Haman, Prime Minister to King Ahasuerus; and between the Acts Punch will perform several serious Dances to the Organ, in the Habit of a Cardinal or an Archbishop.[56] |
May
15
|
On seeing Miss W—y D—cr—s at Vaux-Hall, dress’d in White. I. TO thee, Vaux-Hall, sweet Scene of Joy! The Young, the Gay, the Fair, In sable Bands each Ev’ning fly, And bid adieu to Care. II. While matchless Fingers strike the Lyre, The Crowd a pleas’d Attention shew; Now charm’d we melt with soft Desire, And then with martial Raptures glow! III. These Bowers might tempt the Blest above To leave their Seats of Bliss; And sure the Change wou’d pleasing prove To quit their Heav’n for this. IV. ’Tis done; behold that Form divine In Snowy Mantle clad! Bow all at this Angelic Shrine, And own her Issue of a God! May 15, 1738 W. R.[57] |
May 23
|
May 23, 1738. ALL Persons that have subscrib’d or are willing to
subscribe twenty Guineas for an Italian Opera to be perform’d next Season at the King’s
Theatre in the Hay-Market, under my Direction, are desired to send ten
Guineas to Mr. Drummond the Banker who will give them a Receipt, to return
the Money in case the Opera should not go on, and whereas I declared I would
undertake the Opera’s provided I can agree with the Performers, and that 200 Subscriptions are procured, and as
the greatest Part of the Subscribers have already paid the 10 Guineas;
it is desired that the remaining Subscribers will be pleased to send the
Money to Mr. Drummond, on or before the 5th of June next, that I may
take my Measures, either to undertake the Opera if the Money is paid, or give
them up in case the Money is not paid, it being impossible to make the
necessary Preparations, or to Contract with the Singers after that Time. J. J. HEIDEGGER.[58] |
Jun
1
|
This Day (June 1.) is publish’d, […] THE LONDON MAGAZINE: For the Month of May, 1738. […] VI. Poetry: […] Verses on Mr. Handel’s Statue; […][59] |
[spring 1738]
|
a Sculptor of some merrit has several years been in England. and labouring to gain reputation has lately, as mentiond [sic] in the news papers. made a Statue in Marble of Mr. Handel the famous Master of Music and great composer of Operas &c. <sd. to be like him in the moddel.> this Statue was made to be Set up in Foxhall Gardens. by ... Robullac a French man Sculptor born in Switzerland or some part of it, but. had been many years in France & there made his studies. I have seen a Model in Clay the portrait of Farranelli the famous singer very like him, and well done. a bust of Sr. Isaac Newton one of Oliver Cromwell &c. this statue of Handell is well wrought and with much Art. when considerd.[60] |
Jun
3
|
There is another Piece of News from Spain, which I am sure will be looked upon by some of the Friends of a great Man to be of much greater Consequence than the former [news, i.e. the refusal of a Spanish officer in Madrid to see the British resident Keen], for there is Intelligence from very good Hands that his Catholick Majesty begins to grow tired of the Musick of Farinelli’s Pipe, occasion’d by a Nightingal [sic] being presented to him, which cost a Pistole, and which he thinks has the best Voice of the two; from whence our Politicians at the last Levee have form’d Hopes that Farinelli may be restored to this Nation again. – Let the Spaniards take our Ships, let them drive us out of our Colonies, nay let them cut off our Ears, if they return us Farinelli – Ask all the affected Ladies about Court, ask our new promoted Heroes that behave so valiantly at a Review, what is the Ruin of a thousand Merchants, what the Interest of a dirty Nation, in Comparison of a Song?[61] |
Jun 5
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[Royal Academy of Music, crossed warrant] |
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<missing> of one thousand pounds. and these together with his or his Assigns acquittance shall be your discharge herein |
Geo: Dodington Sundon Winnington |
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Sr. Chas. Turner I pray pay this order out of accs Tonn for the civil list. 5th June 1738 Epr. Recordr. 5o Jun 1738 cclle. Turner Del xviiili. xvs xiiid. 1737 & Whitehall N. C Examr: G: Halifax.[62] |
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Jun 10
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To Dr. EPHRAIM QUIBUS, Philomath. SIR, THOUGH modesty in either sex be generally deem’d a virtue, yet I cannot help being of opinion, that an extream of it borders more upon vice, especially when the excess affects the public, as in the case I am about to lay before your patriot society. But let me premise in favour of my over-bashful client, that far from retaining me to plead his cause, he does not so much as know that I am an admirer of his ingenuity, tho’ for twenty years last past I have been his private advocate and constant customer. The person for whom I appear counsel is the celebrated Mr. J. J. HEIDEGGER, to whose invention and indefatigable labour the polite part of our little world is so much indebted. How heavily would the burden of liesure and idleness sit upon our Beau Monde during the dull winter season, if this artist did not contrive to ease the sensible creatures, by his rational entertainments of Operas, Oratorio’s, Ridotto’s, and dear Masquerades? How intomb’d in the hipp’ and vapours; how gross their ideas of the polite diversions of France and Italy, if this generous Swiss virtuoso did not design to lay out his whole stock of invention in their service! And yet, who would think it, Mr. QUIBUS, this benefactor to the public meets with nothing but ingratitude from that very public. He finds himself neglected, forgot, whilst he sees universal homage paid to, and even a statue erected in honour of one, who till of late thought it his chiefest glory to hold the first rank amongst his domestics. ——— But to the purpose of my present address to you. You must have observed a late * Advertisement publish’d by this injur’d great man, where he proposes to continue his good offices to such as are blessed with a taste for that they don’t understand, for so trifling a sum as four thousand guineas in hand. But behold his modesty, or rather bashfulness; not a single syllable in the whole Advertisement of his own merit, or the utility of his undertaking, in order to raise his character or induce the public to fill his subscription. Tho’ it be true that an undertaking of so great public use speaks for itself, yet considering the depravity and general oeconomy of the age, I believe there are but few besides this bashful gentleman, would be so abstemiously modest as not to interlard his proposals with a few, poignant savoury puffs. These are the defects (if I may have my client’s pardon for calling them such) which I intend to supply, if you shall be pleased to publish my thoughts in your Courier. But as it would be arrogance in a pen so little skill’d in panegyrick as mine, to attempt the character of so inimitable a personage, I shall dilate chiefly on the usefulness of his undertaking, with relation to its good effects on the human body, a consideration which should be ever uppermost in the breast of every good citizen. For how assiduous soever ministers may be in protecting commerce, encouraging industry, arts and sciences, promoting piety and projecting wholsome Laws, they will fail of answering the principal end of government, except they extend their care to the preservation of the health of the community. Of this, it seems, our legislature were sensible, when they laid a patriot restraint on the excessive use of spirituous liquors. But I am afraid the late licensing act, which some may look upon as a sort of restraint on the diversions of the public, won’t be construed in this salutary sense, however virtuously it might have been intended to answer the chief purpose of government. For if it be true, which I think won’t be contested, that our Opera’s and other polite time- killing, Musical Entertainments contribute more than the whole Arcana of physick, towards invigorating the constitutions of the more exalted and refined part of the community, it can’t be denied, that any restraint on the passe temps of the inferior class of the people, ever the most useful as they are the most industrious, is an attack upon the outworks of their bodily health. It is true, the act not being retrospective, does not vest any power in the licenser to restrain the exhibition of such dramatic performances as were printed antecedent to the passing the said law; but as novelty is an itch which even rationality is unable to eradicate, nor ought, if it could, as ’tis instrumental in the preservation of health, I apprehend, that every step towards the suppression of it, is a stride towards encreasing the practice of the faculty. The increase of the bills of mortality in the last winter, notwithstanding the art and indefatigable industry of the celebrated Mr. WARD, seems to justify my assertion. But what puts this matter intirely on my side of the question, is the enormous increase of burials this last season, from the inns of court. The useful, young critics of those learned seminaries having but few or no calls to the Theatres in quest of novel theatric carrion, they sicken’d in throngs, in so much, that during the winter terms, Westminster-hall was observed to be a desart for want of ingrossing clerks. I know an eminent Attorney in Furnival’s inn, that had five of his apprentices down at a time; and on my inquiring one morning of my Apothecary who attended them, what their ailment was, he reply’d, the Act. — I smiled at the answer, and beseeching him to be less laconick, he told me very gravely, that if the licensing Act were not very soon repealed, there would be an end of law and Lawyers; and so explaining to me at large the evil tendency of that law on the constitutions of the whole legal fry, he took his leave to settle with an Undertaker, with whom he had a fellow-feeling, the modus of applying for the job in case his young patients did not survive the Act as he call’d it. Tho’ I could never before arraign myself of the least tendency towards inhumanity, I confess, Mr. QUIBUS, that upon this occasion, I found myself more than usually elated, without being able to assign any immediate reason for my transport: but on my dropping in at the Rolls a little after, where I heard a knot of gouty sages at the upper end of the chapel, laying their hoary noddles together, in order to worry their unhappy clients, by spinning out to a certain length, the causes under their direction, I presently perceived why I had felt that sudden emotion of joy, which I could not account for before. I could find, that it proceeded from motives of charity towards the bulk of my fellow subjects, at least the younger part of them, who through the prevalency of the licensing law, are like to be relieved from the succeeding locusts of the profession. Tho’ I wont take upon me to assert, that our wise legislators had so distant a good in view when they assented to this law, yet it must be a pleasure to every man without-doors to think, that no law passes without its mediate or immediate tendency to publick utility. But to leave our senators in possession of that universal gratitude which their praise-worthy actions so justly exact, we will proceed to shew what our advertising, over-modest professor might have urged in favour of his laudable undertaking. It will be admitted, that circulation is the very essence of trade, therefore, if it be examined how far this gentleman’s various contrivances contribute towards it, we shan’t need to enforce this part of the argument; for what such numbers of our men and women of fashion know to their cost, ought to be taken for granted. Then, if contrivance for employing the lazy and idle part of a community be look’d upon as one of the choicest flowers in the nosegay of politicks, who more justly than our ingenious advertiser, is intitled to our benevolence for his care of cutting out employment for such numbers of our saunterers of both sexes, as are necessarily occupied in dishing out his entertainments? again, if it be true, that the principal power and wealth of a kingdom consists in its inhabitants, every increase of them must necessarily conduce to its opulency: here then, our virtuoso exceeds our warmest hopes; for not content to thin his own native soil, and France, and the German Empire, he ventures beyond the rugged Alps to people our Albion. I foresee ’twill be objected here, that he imports to us but the starv’d refuse of the Continent, which he carefully returns back again as soon as they recover strength and vigour. Invidious, inconsiderate reflection! In this instance above all others, consists his glory; for who does not observe his patriot policy to drive from the hive those drones who, from their riot and excess in our Canaan, become as unable to drudge as when they were less poursive and corpulent? Did not he detain Senesino here till he had emptied half the pockets of taste and distinction in town, and till he was past his labour? Did not he prevent the flight of the beloved Farrinelli, till he had swept up the gleanings of Senesino’s harvest, and became good for nothing? Ungrateful generation! And does not he, as he sweeps away the gorg’d leeches, bring you a constant fresh supply of sharp, nimble, hungry ones in their room, to ease you with the greater speed of the incumbering redundancy of your shining dross? but obligations are lost upon the ungrateful. To illustrate yet farther, the utility of his undertaking; is not the present virtuous harmony between our husbands and wives of fashion, owing to the influence of that accord they observe between the different musical instruments in his Orchestra? There it is, the fair learn to suit their treble to the tone of their blustering mate’s continued base; there the wrong’d husband acquires the self-contenting skill of lowering his note, rather than destroy the harmony of the family consort, when the wife raises her’s to drown the report of her infamy. Is not the happy accord between our H——s of P——t, between the L—ds S——l and T——l in the upper H—e, and the C——t and C——y parties in the L——r, owing to the same cause? what is it that the mighty influence of heavenly music is not able to perform, that had, as Poets sing, moved rocks and loggs, and even lull’d the watchful, grim monarch of hell himself to sleep? But Sir, that which chiefly induced me to appear an advocate for Musick and musical entertainments, is their tendency towards preserving our persons of rank and figure in health and vigour, And tho’ I apprehend I shall have the whole Warwick-lane College and all the rags of the profession upon my back, I have so great a regard for the said breeders of our succeeding legislators, that tho’ it should happen to me as it did to the immortal Moliere, who was refused the assistance of the faculty, because he had made free with their art and morals, I will prove that Operas relieve more maids and matrons in a season than our Licentiates kill in two; which, by the way, is a bold assertion. It is agreed of all hands that the functions of nature should be free and spontaneous, and that any suppression or interruption of them is dangerous to the individual that shall dare act against her stated laws; for instance, to stiffle the belchings of a foul stomach, to suppress urine or other natural evacuation, must be admitted to impair health; but as no suppression impaires it so much as that of wind, we should be particularly careful to suffer dame nature to free herself of so dangerous an intestine enemy. Now, some of the silly laws of society being full in our teeth here, our ingenious Advertiser has contrived the only method that can be imagin’d for allowing nature her full freedom, and yet not offend openly against that injurious decency injoin’d by tyranous custom. What can a poor Lady do to set nature at liberty, in the drawing room, at a visit, an auction, or indeed any where, except in her dressing-room when no pert coxcomb attends at her toilet, or at Church whilst the organs play. But this last sanctuary is not for every body considering how many of our Churches are without organs, and how many of our fair frequent meetings and conventicles. Now the Opera supplies all these defects, where during the space of three or four hours, the imprison’d may be releas’d under the discharge of instruments without putting the pretty jaylor to the confusion of a blush. As it would be needless here to inquire into the nature and essence of a F—t, a subject so well and so generally understood, we will proceed, with your leave, Mr. QUIBUS, to examine the ill consequences of suppressing it. In its’ retrogradation it certainly causes [2] cholicks, rumblings, belchings, swelling of the stomach and hystericks in the weaker constitutions; but in the fair of a better habit of body, it vents itself chiefly in noise and verbosity; and to this cause may be assign’d the reason why women are more talkative than men who are less observant of the inhuman laws of decency in this respect. One of our late ingenious countrymen has touch’d this subject with great art, where he says, ‘ —— Words own Wind to be their mother, ‘ Which stopp’d at one end, burst out at t’other. Hence, no doubt, comes that
trite saying of, Tell a Tale, or let a F—t, implying the necessity of vent one way or t’other. The remarkable taciturnity of a certain widow lady of Dutch extraction, is a convincing proof of what we have advanced; for having her P——t ——r parts much dilated by a too frequent use of the Galenical emissive tube in her youth, she is become so debilitated, that the imprison’d wind passing too freely thro’ the inferior passage, there wants a sufficient supply to set the wind-mill of her tongue a going. The husband, a good natur’d easy man, always imputed her silence to her prudence, till once upon a time, an excessive use of certain cordial Waters, having occasion’d her being bound to her good behaviour, he was convinced that what he had imputed to her virtue was owing to another cause; so, taking sometimes the Apothecary, and sometimes the Opera to his aid, he rubb’d on a life of alternate ease and pain. The frequent intemperate fitts of laughing and crying without any sensible cause, observable in such as are troubled with the vapours, are thought to be accountable to the suppression of interior wind; for the ventose vapours impregnating the risible muscles they become inflated, and occasion laughter; but if it happens that this wind, when raised to the head, is there condensed, as it will in a cold melancholy constitution, it will then distil itself thro’ the opticks in form of tears. The curious searchers into nature find no cure for these intemperances, but Operas or the Cly—r. As for the lawfulness of F—ting, none I hope will dispute that point with me, till he produce a law against it which I take upon me to say cannot be done; and ’tis a known maxim, that where there is no law there can be no transgression. The canon law, if I am rightly inform’d by the rector of our parish, is loudly for it, and the law of nature seems to be of our side; and tho’ the civil law may seem to clash with that of nature, yet as the severity of that law was provided against by an act of prerogative of one of our wisest Monarchs, James I. we presume his authority will stand unimpeach’d, till the legislature think proper to enact the contrary. The instance I allude to, wherein his said Majesty thought proper to exert his Kingly authority is recorded thus. A gentleman, probably a prime minister, or at least a privy counsellor, dying in the royal presence by the suppression of a F—t, the King had immediately wrote over the palace gate in capital letters this inscription. HERE ALL F—TS ARE FREE. It does not appear indeed from the annals of that reign, whether the suppression which occasion’d the untimely end of the aforesaid courtier was owing to a violent application of the royal Toe to the breech, or to tossing the royal beaver in the face; but the annallists are all clear, that it was owing to some cholerick intemperance of that pacifick Prince. One of our most accurate † historians observes the esteem F—ts were held in by our renowned ancestors. He tells us, that one Baldwin Le Pettour, i[.] e. the F—tir, held certain lands at Hemingsham in Com. Suffolk, by the tenure of coming into Court on a certain day, performing Saltus, Sufflatus, and Bumbulus; that is, Capering, Puffing and F—ting. The disuse of the Custom is no reason why it should not be revived whenever it shall be thought for the publick emolument. The only difficulty lies in finding one of so great consequence as to be above any scandal, that may attend the attempt of the revival of so obsolete a custom. I have a certain foreign celebrated Toast in my eye of whom such wonders have been related, whom I design to apply to upon her arrival, for this purpose; she seems to me, upon many accounts, to be one fit either to revive or introduce a custom or fashion however convenient or ridiculous: she is said to be as handsome as she is powerful and artful; besides she’s of a country where the custom, I would recommend, is universally receiv’d. That she will be revered and followed I make no doubt; for who ever came, cherish’d and recommended as she does, that did not lead the van in all fashions. — Probatum est, then, that Madame V———— be address’d upon her arrival at Greenwich, to take upon her the high office of Protectress General of the F—ters of Great Britain, and that Mr. J. J. H— g—r and Mr. H—l do draw up and prepare the same, as greatly tending to the encouragement of Operas, and the conservation of his Majesty’s liege subjects. If I should find, Mr QUIBUS, that your learn’d society approve of my justification of Operas and my annimadversions on the benefits of F—ting, I may continue your Correspondent, I am, Sir, Blowbladder-street, June 10th. Your most humble servant, PHILO-F—T.[63]
* Daily Advertiser, Thursday, May 25, 1738. All Persons that have subscribed, or are willing to subscribe twenty Guineas for an Italian Opera,
to be perform’d next Season at the
King’s Theatre in the Hay-market, under my
Direction, are desired to
send ten Guineas to Mr. Drummond, Banker,
who will give them a Receipt to return the money in
case the Opera should not go on; and whereas I declared
I would undertake the Opera, provided I can agree with
the performers, and that two hundred Subscribers are
procured, and as the greatest Part of the Subscribers have
already paid the ten Guineas, it is desired that the remaining Subscribers
will be pleased to send the Money to Mr. Drummond on
or before the 5th of June next, that I may take my
measures either to undertake the Operas, if the money is paid,
or give them up, in case the money is not paid, it being impossible
to make the necessary preparations, or to
contract with the Singers after that Time. J. J. HEIDEGGER. † Camd. p. 464. |
Jun
17
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We hear that his Catholick Majesty has offered the Command of a Squadron to a certain Squeaker, who after conquering many Thousands of English Hearts, deserted the Stage —— We fancy his Majesty made this Promotion with a Design that this Squeaking Gentleman might still retain the same Influence over the British Subjects at the Head of a Squadron, as he formerly did at the Head of an Opera; but the Use of some Spanish Instruments have since that Time spoiled our Ears[.][64] |
Jun 17
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On Saturday last set out for Breda Signiora Strada del Po, to which Place she goes in Obedience to the Command of her Royal Highness the Princess of Orange, from whence she intends to go to Italy; but before her Departure desires that the British Nobility and Gentry (from whom she has received so many signal Marks of Favour) might be acquainted that it is no ways owing to her, that the present Scheme for performing Opera’s next Winter in the Hay-market, under the Direction of Mr. Heydegger, has miscarried, as has been maliciously reported; she having agreed with Mr. Heydegger above a Month ago. [sic] as the said Gentleman can testify.[65] |
On saturday last set out for Breda,
Signora Strada del Po, to which place she goes in obedience to her royal
highness the Princess of Orange, from whence she [i]ntends to go Italy. But before her departure desires, that the British
nobility and gentry (from whom she has received so many signal marks of favour)
migh[t] be acquainted that it is no ways owing to her that the present scheme
for performing opera’s next winter in the Hay-market under the direction of Mr.
Heydegger, has miscarried as has been maliciously reported; she having agreed
with Mr. Heydegger above a month ago, as the said gentleman can testify. LP.———What pity that those useful
foreigners should miscarry in their designs on our purses and morals?[66]
July 22
[“SATURDAY, July 22.”]
The latter end of last week, the famous
singer, Caffarali, set out from Tunbridge-wells for Dovers, in order to embark
there for France, on his return to Italy.
DA.——Mr. Quibble should be glad of having the like
opportunity of wishing all our foreign enchanters a good voyage.[67]
Jul 25
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HAY-MARKET. July 25,
1738. WHEREAS the
Opera’s for the ensuing
Season at the King’s Theatre in the Hay-Market, cannot be carried on as was intended, by
Reason of the Subscription not being full, and that I
could not agree with the Singers, tho’ I offer’d One Thousand Guineas to One of them: I therefore think myself oblig’d to
declare, that I give up the Undertaking for next Year, and that Mr. Drummond will be ready to repay the Money paid in,
upon the Delivery of his Receipt; I also take this Opportunity
to return my humble Thanks to all Persons, who were
pleas’d to contribute towards my Endeavours of carrying on that
Entertainment. J. J. HEIDEGGER.[68] |
Jul 27
|
On seeing Mr. HANDEL’s statue in Vaux-hall
gardens. How far the sculptor’s utmost art can go This
statue, wond’rous proof thereof! may show; Musick’s
great master’s here’s exprest so well, So
freely on the lyre his fingers dwell, That
wholly it our soul’s alarms confounds, We
listen, and expect the op’ning sounds. But
ah! in vain, ’tis HANDEL’s self must give The
pow’r to charm, to move, to make it live. K.[69] |
Aug 17
[Katherine Knatchbull in Hatch to James Harris, 17 August [1738]]
[P.S.] M[r] Jennings comes hither the 4th September.[70]
Aug 19
|
On Saturday last the Entertainment of the Spring-Gardens, Vaux-hall, ended for this Season; great Numbers of People came to it, tho’ the Evening was cold, and seem’d to threaten Rain. The whole was conducted with the usual Decency, and concluded with the Coronation Anthems, by Mr. Handel. The Company seem’d greatly satisfied on that Occasion.[71] |
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The Entertainment of the SPRING-GARDENS, Vaux-Hall, ended on Saturday Night last, for this Season, on which Occasion there was a great Concourse of People, notwithstanding that the Evening was so cloudy and unpromising. The Whole was conducted with the usual Order and Decency, and concluded with the Coronation Anthems of Mr. Handel, to the great Satisfaction of the Company.[72] |
Sep 19
[Charles Jennens to Lord Guersney, 19 September 1738]
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Mr. Handel’s head is more full of Maggots than ever. I found yesterday in his room a very queer Instrument, which He calls Carillon (Anglice a Bell,) & says some call it a Tubalcain, I suppose because it is both in the make & tone like a set of Hammers striking upon Anvils. ’Tis play’d upon with Keys like a Harpsichord, & with this Cyclop- ean Instrument he designs to make poor Saul stark mad. His second Maggot is an Organ of 500. ll price, which (because he is overstock’d with Money) he has bespoke of one Moss of Barnet[.] this Organ, he says, is so constru’d, that as he sits at it, he has a better command of his Performers. than he us’d to have, & he is highly delighted to think with what exactness his Oratorio will be perform’d by the help of this Organ: so that for the future instead of beating time at his oratorio’s, he is to sit at the Organ all the time with his back to the Audience. His third Maggot is a Hallelujah which he has trump’d up at the end of his Oratorio since I went into the Country, be- cause he thought the conclusion of the Oratorio not Grand enough; tho’ if that were the case ’twas his own fault, for the words would have bore as Grand Musick as he could have set ’em to but this Halle<lu>jah Grand as it is, comes in very nonsensically, hav- ing no manner of relation to what goes before. And this is the more extraordinary, because he refus’d to set a Hallelujah at the end of the first Chorus in the Ora- torio, where I had plac’d one & where it was to be introduc’d with the utmost pro- priety, upon a pretence that it would make the Entertainment too long. I could tell you more of his Maggots: but it grows late & I must defer the rest till I write next; by which time, I doubt not, more new ones will breed in his Brain. My humble service to all Friends; I am, my Dear Lrd, Your most Affectionate Friend & Servt. C Jennens.[73] |
Oct 7
|
[Prince Kantemir in Paris to Gastaldi in London, 7 October 1738] [...] je vous remercie de celles [nouvelles] que vous m’avez communiquée: J’ai eu pitié à l’article de la Lucchesina et j’ai ri à celui qui regarde Rolli. J’y reconnois l’homme qui est encore enfant à 50 ans: il lui faut un tuteur, s’il veut faire jamais fortune. [...][74] |
Oct 13
|
[…] In short, no Man can be a fine Gentleman who is not a Man of Honour, and no Man can be a Man of Honour that makes a bad Husband. The Perfumer may perform his Part well; the Valet may powder and dress him with Exactness; he may be a Judge of every Air of Handel’s, and be a Credit to his Dancing Master in every Minuet; he may have an entertaining Wit, and sprightly Conversation; but if the Harp is always hung up at the Door and he carries home none of that Pleasantry and Good Humour which makes him agreeable abroad, whatever Talents of Ingenuity he may be possess’d of, however dignify’d by Birth, or honour’d by Station, he moves the Contempt of all wise and good Men, and has no Claim to the good Opinion which every where but in his own House he strives to establish.[75] |
Oct 13
|
[crossed warrant] |
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Royal Academy of Musick - - S. W [ticked] <...> John Kipling Attorney <Jus?> & H Burry |
Order is taken this 6th. of July. 1738 By virtue of his Ma.tys. General Letters of Privy Seal bearing date the 26th day of June 1727 and in pursuance of a Warrant under his Ma.tys. Royal Sign Manual dated the 4th. instant That you deliver and pay of such his MaTys— Treasure as remain in your charge unto the Royal Academy of Musick or such person or persons as are or shall be authorized by them to receive the same the Sum[m] of One thousand pounds without amount as of His Ma.ts. Bounty towards Enabling the undertakers of the Opera to discharge the Expense thereof and these together with these or their assigns acquittance shall be your discharge herein [verso] |
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13: Octr: 1738 Reced the full Contents of this Order John Kipling[76] |
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Oct 17
|
[Lord Chamberlain’s Records] These are &c. to Mr Christopher Shrider Organ Maker in Ordinary to His Majesty the Summ of Seventy Eight Pounds Ten Shillings for providing puting {sic} up and pulling down an Organ in the French Chapel at St James’s for rehearsals and for putting up in King Henry the Seventh’s Chapel in Westminster Abby for the practice and performance of the Funeral Anthem for her late Majesty as appears by the Annext Bill certifyed by Mr. Bernard Gates Tuner of the Regals and Organs. And &c. Given &c. this 17[th] Day of October 1738 in the Twelfth Year of His Majesty’s Reign. To the Lord Hobart, Grafton Marginal entry: Chris[topher] Shrider, for provided {sic} an Organ &c. for the Funeral Anthem for Her late Majesty, £78.10.0[77] |
Oct 23
|
It is assur’d that the Entertainments propos’d to be on the Grand Machine in the Great Room in Panton-Street, will begin at Four o’Clock this Afternoon, consisting of several fine Airs of Musick, to be play’d by Mr. Digard the Organist, and by the Clock-Work in the Machine, which likewise produces moving Pictures representing the Muses coming to meet Apollo at a Concert at Parnassus, the Streams of Helicon running at the Mountain-foot, and St. Cecilia playing on an Organ in Time with the Musick. All the Planets moving round the Sun in the Canopy of the Machine, in proportionable times to the System of Copernicus, and a nine-inch Globe of the Earth, performing its regular diurnal Motion according to apparent Time, whilst the Sun’s Course thro’ the Zodiac is likewise justly demonstrated on a Celestial Globe of like Dimensions, as is the Moon’s Appearance according to her daily Age, on a Ball of six Inches in Circumference. The whole is to be explain’d to the Audience, and continu’d weekly at Four, Five and Six o’Clock every Evening but Wednesdays and Fridays, these last being the fix’d Concert-Nights. Half a Crown applied here within one of those seasonable Hours, can hurt neither Purse nor Constitution, however it may contribute to please and edify, if it will be allow’d that such can be done in plain English.[78] |
Nov 18
|
St. Cecilia’s Day; why Sounds please, or not; Talents of Dr. Pepusch, Mr. Handel, Dr. Green, &c. two Ladies Queens; the Oxford Almanack, Motion against the Recorder, and the Test, &c. will be Oratory Subjects Tomorrow.[79] |
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SONG IV. Sciciatta dal suo nido in Rodelinda. Col. O my little Punchinello, My little dapper Fellow, Have you heard that Farinello Is coming over. Punch. O no-------------my Columbino, I hear that Caristeno, The famous Caristeno, Who has pleas’d both the King and Queen - o, Sets out for Dover. Col. But I hope my Senesino Is no such Rover. Punch. O, no, your Senesino Has lick’d himself quite clean - o, Has, of thousands, made fifteen - o, And lives in Clover. Col. After Porpora or Handel, Where d’ye think the Town will dandle; Or who shall hold the Candle? Punch. --- --- I care not a Farthing, But Harlequin’s Lun - o Has cook’d a deal of Fun - o Of Pantomime and Pun - o, And expects a mighty Run - o At Covent-Garden. Col. Shall us go and see the Fun - o At Covent-Garden. Punch. In Play-houses, full six - o, One knows not where to fix - o, Till they let us in for Nix - o. That’s Punche’s Bargain. Both. In Play-houses, &c.[80] |
Dec 14
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[Charles Jennens at Queen Square, London, to Edward Holdsworth] […] My Uncle stays but a week in Town, & when he will bring his Family up I can’t tell; for my Aunt finds her self so much better in the Country, that I believe she will be in no hast to leave it; & the young Ladies are very indifferent to the Town, since there are no Operas & I suppose it will not be long before the young gentlemen will visit Oxford again […][81] |
Dec
18
[dedication: December 18, 1746.]
A Satire. Corrected from the Edition published in 1738, with some Additions.
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[…] What but the thirst of universal fame, Aspiring Titus, can e’en critics blame? Bless’d with a genius, and with arts adorn’d, For which his proud ambition makes him scorn’d: And yet his merit might deserve applause, Were he content to act by nature’s laws: But start a subject:— Mark how he harangues, Why one’s transported, when another hangs; Alike on trifles, and important things, On plays, religion, opera’s, or kings; Nor will he condescend to hold his tongue On subjects, which he never thought upon; His judgment teaches senates what is fit, To Pult’ney politics, to Stanhope wit; Eager he grasps at fame, but meets with none, Like gamesters by too bold a cast undone. [147] None but the supple cringing parasite, Who takes in fools encomiums a delight; Whose life is govern’d by one slavish rule, To flatter every coxcomb, knave, and fool; Can entertain a hope, or wish, to be From the world’s censure, or reproaches free: The wretch, who vainly thinks to make a friend Of all mankind, deserves no better end, Than that deluded mean dependant race, Who starve in expectation of a place. But if this vanity of heart betrays Your mind to catch at universal praise: Think there are men, whose virtues far exceed Thy merit, as immortal Thames the Tweed! That Pope in poetry has suffer’d scandal, In physic Nichols, and in music Handel; [148] While Maurus in his gilded chariot rides, And by a lucky hit at court presides: That Murray, rising genius of the bar, Who shines the foremost in the verbal war, Is undermin’d, in character and fame, By reptiles of the law without a name. Thus envy dwells within ignoble minds, And at another’s excellence repines. […][82] |
Dec
29
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Mr. Handel has hir’d the Opera-House in the Hay-Market for the Season, and intends to entertain the Town twice every Week with Oratorios, &c.[83] |