THE TRUE HISTORY
OF TOM & JERRY:
OR,
[Illustration: LIFE IN LONDON.]
LIFE IN LONDON, my boys, is a round of delight,
In frolics, I keep up, both the day and the night,
With my TOM and my JERRY, I try to “_get best_”
Of the COVES in the _East_--and the SWELLS at the _West_!
Such _pals_ in a _lark_, we the TOWN can defy, O!
Then join me in _chaunting_ our _precious_ TRIO.
[Illustration: BILLY WATERS.]
_Mags_ came thick, this made him merry;
Fortune changes in a crack--
Folks they went t’ see Tom and Jerry,
And on Billy turned their back.
One notable effect of “Life in London,” particularly in its dramatised
form must be recorded. It broke the heart of poor Billy Waters, the
one-legged musical negro, who died in St. Giles’s workhouse, whispering
with his ebbing breath, a mild anathema, which sounded very much like:
“Cuss him, dam Tom--meē--Tom--meē Jerry!”
Poor Billy endeavoured, up to the period of his last illness, to obtain
for a wife and two children what he termed, “An honest living by scraping
de cat-gut!” by which he originally collected considerable sums of money
at the West-end of the town, where his ribbon-decked cocked hat and
feathers, with the grin on his countenance, and sudden turn and kick out
of his wooden limb, and other antics and efforts to please, excited much
mirth and attention, and were well rewarded from the pockets of John Bull.
THE TRUE HISTORY
OF TOM AND JERRY;
OR,
THE DAY AND NIGHT SCENES,
OF LIFE IN LONDON
FROM THE START TO THE FINISH!
WITH A KEY TO THE PERSONS AND PLACES,
TOGETHER WITH A VOCABULARY AND GLOSSARY
OF THE
FLASH AND SLANG TERMS,
OCCURING IN THE COURSE OF THE WORK.
BY
CHARLES HINDLEY,
_Editor of “The Old Book Collector’s Miscellany; or,
a Collection of Readable Reprints of Literary Rarities”
“Works of John Taylor--the Water Poet,” “The Roxburghe
Ballads,” “The History of the Catnach Press,” “The
Curiosities of Street Literature,” “The Book of Ready
Made Speeches,” “Life and Times of James Catnach, late
of the Seven Dials, Ballad Monger,” “Tavern Anecdotes
and Sayings,” etc._
London:
CHARLES HINDLEY, 41, BOOKSELLERS’ ROW, ST. CLEMENT DANES,
STRAND, W.C.
[Illustration]
INTRODUCTION.
“Nothing succeeds like success”--or “Fails like failure.”
Prince Talleyrand _cum_ Baron Nicholson!
That PIERCE EGAN’S LIFE IN LONDON, or TOM AND JERRY, was a success, we
have plenty of printed evidence and ‘hearsay’! to prove. And we also
know--beyond the shadow of a doubt, that the news of its metropolitan fame
went forth with almost telegraphic speed throughout the provinces:--From
John o’Groat’s House to the Land’s End!--From Dan to Beersheba!--and back
_again_! With LIFE IN LONDON, its language became the language of the day;
drawing-rooms were turned into _chaffing cribs_, and rank and beauty
learned to patter flash _ad nauseam_.
The original work went through several editions in a very short time, and
the plates, by the Brothers Cruikshank, were considered so full of
amusement that they were transferred to a variety of articles without any
loss of time. The _Lady_ taking her _gunpowder_ was enabled to amuse her
visitors with the adventures of _Tom and Jerry_ on her highly-finished
tea-tray. The lovers of Irish _Blackguard_ experienced a double zest in
taking a pinch from a box, the lid of which exhibited the laughable phiz
of the eccentric BOB LOGIC. The country folks were delighted with the
handkerchief which displayed TOM getting the best of a Charley, and DUSTY
BOB and BLACK SAL “all happiness!” The _Female of Quality_ felt interested
with the lively scene of the light fantastic toe at Almack’s, when playing
with her elegant fan; and the _Connoisseur_, with a smile of satisfaction
on his countenance, contemplated his screen, on which were displayed the
motley groups of high and low characters continually on the move in the
metropolis.
Everybody talked of TOM AND JERRY, and crowds rushed to the theatres where
the uproarious adventures of these popular personages were represented in
a dramatic form. Mr. W. T. Moncrieff’s adaptation brought out at the
Adelphi Theatre, November 26th, 1821:--which, “_by-the way_,” was by far
the best of the whole _bunch_!--ran uninterruptedly through two seasons.
It then appeared in rapid succession at the Theatres all over England,
Ireland, Scotland, and Wales; likewise in most of the United States of
America, the West Indies, &c.
But although LIFE IN LONDON, or, TOM AND JERRY did make our grandfathers
so very--_very!_ merry in the first quarter of the Nineteenth Century, we
are constrained to admit; that it is a terrible dull and tedious work to
read through in the present day, and it is on that very account, that we
here place before our readers, what we are pleased to term--THE TRUE
HISTORY of TOM and JERRY; for the work has a history of its own, and to
exemplify the fact, we have in the first place, made numerous selections
from the original work, then given the principal scenes of Moncrieff’s
dramatic version of the same, the two concluding chapters of PIERCE EGAN’S
continuation of his LIFE IN LONDON which he entitles--THE FINISH TO THE
ADVENTURES OF TOM, JERRY, AND LOGIC, in their Pursuits through LIFE IN AND
OUT OF LONDON.[1] Together with a “KEY to PERSONS and PLACES, and an
Etymological and Critical Vocabulary and Glossary of _Flash_ and _Slang
Terms_ occurring in the course of this work,” as at once giving an
epitome of the whole: and to our mind, sufficient to be known of PIERCE
EGAN’S once popular work. To which we have added such historic facts and
scraps of information that have come to hand during our researches in
connection with the--RISE and PROGRESS--DECLINE and FALL of the BOOK and
its STORY. The present generation will find in some of the scenes depicted
in such glowing colours, many of the fashions, manners and customs, which
prevailed in the reign of King George the Fourth, together with certain
landmarks of the past, which no one need regret leaving far behind, and
ought to give every encouragement to those who live under the rule of
Queen Victoria to maintain a firm faith in the social progress of the age.
The first CHAPTER of LIFE IN LONDON, commences with what the author terms
AN INVOCATION, in which, after _invoking!_--“the pleasing, grateful,
inspiring, nay, golden advantages resulting from the smiles of that
supreme goddess of the gods, FAME!”--which he adds is the--“flattering
unction” that all authors _sigh_ to be anointed with. He then in
very--“merry-go-round--here we go round”--sort of a way calls to his aid
many of the past, and, also then, living authors, artists, publishers, and
public characters of the day--“to enrich his judgment--guide his
pen--inspire him with confidence--and in other ways assist him in the
arduous task he has undertaken.” And thus he ‘_invokes_.’ Laurence
Sterne--divine and humourist--(1713-68):--
--“It is to thee, STERNE, I first humbly bend my knee, and solicit thy
most powerful aid. If thou didst not _use up_ all thy stock of
SENSIBILITY before thou wert called away to enjoy the reward of thy
exertions in the bowers of Elysium, pray tell me where thou didst
deposit that most precious bottle, that I may with an eagerness
unexampled, uncork its treasures and apply every drop after thy rich
felicity: I have great need of it. And FIELDING, too, thou true
delineator of HUMAN NATURE, if only a small _remnant_ of thy MANTLE
has been left behind, let me but know it, that I may ransack every
piece-broker’s house in the kingdom, till I become the master of such
an invaluable stimulus to exertion. And, although another SOPHIA
WESTERN, perhaps, is not to be met with in the walks of the present
day, if it were my precise object, yet, let me but produce some
similarity towards the _double_ of a TOM JONES or a BOOTH, and the
highest pinnacle of my ambition is attained. SMOLLETT, thy touching
heartfelt qualities break in upon me so penetratingly, that I must
also invoke thy friendly shrine. And if a RORY RANDOM or a Lieutenant
BOWLING should ever cross my path, instruct me to portray their noble
traits with all that richness of colouring, and peculiar happiness of
style, that once embellished thy truly characteristic pen.
--“Advance, also the Metropolitan Heroes of Literary Renown, whether
of GENIUS great, either of _romantic_ style, or of _Poetry_ exquisite,
of DON JUAN or Lalla Rookh quality, it matters not, if _generosity_
lie within thine inkstands, and ye put forth your good wishes for my
success; show me your _passports_ to excellence, and put me in the
right road, that I may ultimately obtain your proud signatures and
arrive safe at the end of my journey.
--“REVIEWS, those terrific Censors of the timid writer, and arbiters
of the press, whether QUARTERLY,[2] or at EDINBURGH,[3] you who apply
the _knife_, bear it in mind that VAN BUTCHELL[4] _advertises_ to
perform _cures_ without _cutting_; and that ABERNETHY[5] is himself
alone! and also remember, thou _sages_ of the quill, that many an
unfortunate _homo_ who has been ‘damned to everlasting Fame’ and
disposed of in a _Jef_, in thy most omnipotent pages; yet has, from
the _resuscitating_ glossy aid of Messrs. DAY & MARTIN, become a
_shining_ Literary Character in Paternoster Row, and formed one of the
real Portraits of LIFE IN LONDON.
--“Come forth, my _Mag_ of BLACKWOOD[6]; thee, too, I must invoke!
thou _chiel_ of SATIRE, whose lively sallies and
‘laughing-in-the-sleeve greatness’ that would have paralysed the
pencil of a HOGARTH, or struck dumb the _piquant_ ridicule of a
CHURCHILL, if the grim King of Terrors had not deprived us of their
talents; I challenge thee to the _scratch_! ’Tis ONE OF THE FANCY
calls! But, from thy _lamb-like_ qualities and _playful_ artillery, it
must only be a private _set-to_ with the _gloves_. My hand grapples
with you in friendship--it possesses not _weight_ enough to combat
with thee, although the _pluck_, perhaps, attached to it may be always
_gay_. Be it remembered, that BLACKWOOD is always in _training_--he
_hits_ so very hard--and his BACKERS are likewise so numerous amongst
the Greeks, Latins, Hebrews, and Classics, that it would be two to one
against an open contest: therefore, good Mr. Blackwood, be just, nay,
be more, ‘be merciful. It is doubly bless’d’; and you know _Blacky_,
‘it blesseth him that _gives_ and him that _takes_.’ Then _floor_ me
not; but instead:--
Shoot thine arrow o’er thy house,--
And do not wound thy brother;
but whisper to the PACK, and particularly to the _whipper-in_, Old
Christopher North, that ‘’TIS I’--(your _flash-y_ friend of the
South). But let me entreat of you Mr. Blackwood, to _bottle-off_ a few
of thy little mastery touches (as full of fire as thy famed whisky),
and send them to me with all the speed of the mail, lest my stock of
_spirits_ should be exhausted, and that LIFE IN LONDON may be
enriched with the fine colouring of a _Meg Merrilees_, if it be only
in perspective.”
--“And MR. COLBURN (thou indefatigable promoter of literature), thy
assistance I most humbly crave! indeed, I feel assured that thy
spirited and liberal disposition will not permit thee to omit
informing those dashing belles and beaux, whose morning lounge gives
thy repository of the mind an air of fashion, that LIFE IN LONDON is
worthy of perusal.
* * * * *
“But thou, O MURRAY! whose classic front defies, with terrific awe,
ill-starred, pale, wan, and _shabbily_-clad GENIUS from approaching
thy splendid threshold, retreat a little from thy rigid reserve, and
for once open thy doors, and take the unsophisticated JERRY HAWTHORN
by the hand; and although not a CHILDE HAROLD in birth, a CORSAIR
bold, or a HARDY VAUX, _wretched_ exile; yet let me solicit thee to
introduce him to thy numerous acquaintance, that, having once obtained
thy _smiling_ sanction, JERRY may not only have the honour of being
allowed to call again, but to offer his services throughout thy
extended circle. Grant me but this and whether in simple quires, in
humble boards, or in Russia, triumphantly gilt, so that thou promote
my fame, my gratitude attends thee, and values not the mode of thy
favours.”
“CHRISTIE, I am sure thy goodness will not refuse me the loan of thy
_erudite_ hammer, if not to _knock down_, yet to dispose of every
coarse and offensive article; nay more, let them not be numbered in
the _catalogue_ of my offences.”
“O SHAUGHNESSY, fashion me into thy fine attitudes and guard, to
protect me from assaults in all the hair-breath escapes I may have to
encounter in my day and midnight rambles. And thou, O mighty and
powerful champion, CRIBB, admired hero of the stage, teach me to make
a _hit_ of so KEAN a quality, that it may not only _tell_, but be long
remembered in the Metropolis. And Paternoster-row triumpet forth its
praise and excellence throughout the most distant provinces.”
“ACKERMAN, if ever thou didst _value_ the Tour of DR. SYNTAX, I call
upon thee now to lend thy friendly assistance and protection to
CORINTHIAN TOM and his rustic _protégé_ poor JERRY. Present a copy of
their SPREES and RAMBLES to the learned Doctor, and his ‘Picturesque’
brain will be all on fire for another tour, from the new scenes it
will develop to his unbounded thirst for enterprise and knowledge.”
“And thou, too, HONE, thou king of parodists! turn not a deaf ear to
my request, but condescendingly grant the petition of your most humble
suitor. In my diversity of research, teach me ‘how to tell my story,’
that I may not only woo the public with success and fame, but produce
that fine edge in _sharpening_ up my ideas, yet, withal so smooth and
_oily_, that instead of _wounding_ characters, I may merely _tickle_
them and create a smile!”
“_Tremblingly alive!_ nay, heavily oppressed with agitation and fear,
I now intrude myself into thy presence, thou renowned hero of the
police, TOWNSHEND. Do not frown upon me, but stretch out thine hand to
my assistance, thou bashaw of the _prigs_ and all-but _beak_! The
satellite of kings and princes, protector of the nobility, and one of
the _safe guards_ of the Metropolis. Listen to my application, I
entreat thee, ‘my knowing one,’ and for once let me take a _peep_ into
thy hiden invaluable secrets. It is only a _glance_ at thy _reader_[7]
that I request:--
Wherein of hundreds _topp’d_, thousands lagg’d;
And of the innumerable _teazings_ thou has book’d.
thy ‘Life in London,’ alone, is a history of such magnitude, that, if
once developed, the ‘Adventures of Robinson Crusoe’ must be forgotten.
O teach me, TOWNSEY, to be as _down_ in my portraits as thou art in
giving all the light and shade of criminality to the nightly mysteries
of the wary FENCE when pressing for a conviction; and likewise, to
keep as sharp a look out after _characters_ in the ball-room of the
CORINTHIANS as thy penetrating eyes scour the abodes of the great when
‘at home’ to make all right. I ask no more than:
Sit mihi fas audita loqui; sit numine vestro
Pandere res altâ terra et caligine mersas.”
PIERCE EGAN--THE AUTHOR--Then more particularly appeals to the Brothers R.
and G. CRUIKSHANK and to ☞ HIMSELF!!! as BOXIANA, thus:--
“In all your varied portraiture of the interesting scenes of Life, let
me invoke thy superior talents, BOB and GEORGE CRUIKSHANK (thou
_Gillray_[8] of the day, and of _Don Saltero_[9] greatness), to my
anxious aid. Indeed, I have need of all your illustrative touches; and
may we be hand-and-glove together in depicting the richness of nature,
which so wantonly, at times, plays off her freaks upon half-famished
bone-rakers and cinder sifters round the dust hill, that we may be
found, _en passant_, so identified with the scene in question, as
almost to form a part of the group. May you also, BOB and GEORGE,
_grapple_ with _Hogarthian_ energy, in displaying _tout a la monde_
the sublime and _finished_ part of creation, whether _screwed_ up to a
_semi-tone_ of ART, or in nobly delineating, what must always be a
welcome visitor at every residence, and likewise an admired portrait
over all the chimney-pieces in the kingdom--a PERFECT GENTLEMAN. But,
before I dismiss you to your studies, bear it in remembrance, ‘nothing
to extenuate, or set down aught in malice;’ yet be tremblingly alive
to the _shrug_ of the fastidious critic, who might, in his sneer,
remark, that CARICATURE would be as much out of time and place in
holding up to ridicule the interior of the religious good man’s
closet, as it is animatedly required in giving all the rusticity and
fun incident to the humours of a country life.”
--“And, thou, O BOXIANA! my dearest friend and well-wisher, thou
beloved companion of all my hours, thou ‘note book’ of my MIND, and
‘pen-and-ink remembrancer’ of my passing scenes, whether in splendid
palaces, lost in admiration over the fascinating works of art, or in
_diving_ into the humble cellar, passing an hour with some of
mankind’s worthiest children, poor, but contented and happy,--be thou
my guide and assistant! Do not desert me, at _peep o’ day_, when
drowsy Watchmen quit their posts, and coffee-shops _vomit_ forth their
_snoozing_ customers--those out-casts of society--to whom a table is a
luxury to rest their thoughtless heads upon, and whose:--
Dry desert of a leather pocket book does not contain
A solitary farthing!
Be also at my elbow, upon the _strut_ in Hyde Park, on Sunday’s stare,
when Sol’s bright rays over _Fashion’s_ splendid scene gives such a
brilliancy of appearance. And be thou near to me, should midnight
Covent Garden rows claim my attention, when _noisy rattles_ collect
together the dissipated ramblers _touched_ with the potent juice of
Bacchus, and entangled with _hoarse Cyprians_ in the last stage of
existence, till dragged to the watch-house, where the black hole gives
a _limit_ to their depravity of exclamation. In this respect, BOXIANA,
let thine ear be as nice as SPAGNIOLETTI’S; anxious, like this great
master of the Cremona, to give all the force and beauty of
composition, but carefully to avoid a note being out of tune. Then,
for once, let me entreat of thee, in soliciting thy assistance, that
thou wilt take off the _gloves_, quit the prize ring, put down thy
_steamer_, and for awhile dispense with thy DAFFY, but, above all,
stear clear from the _slang_,[10] except, indeed, where the instances
decidedly call it forth, in order to produce an effect, and _emphasis_
of character. Then, fare thee well?”
_Vive vale--si quid novisti rectius istis,
Candidus imperti; si non, his utere mecum._--HORACE.
--“Farewell and be happy--if you know of any precepts better than
these, be so candid as to communicate them, if not, partake of these
with me.”
----------“If a better system’s thine,
Impart it freely, or make use of mine.”
Early in the career of the publication of LIFE IN LONDON, there seems to
have been some adverse criticisms by at least a section of the Press on
the _slang_ of the Author; and the somewhat highly coloured and _spicey_
Plates of the Brothers Cruikshank, as in CHAPTER VI., page 84, Part III.,
there is the following apology, or, explanation printed as a foot-note
thus:--
--“I am aware that some of my readers of a higher class of society,
may feel, or seem to think, that I have introduced a little too much
of the _slang_; but I am anxious to render myself perfectly
intelligible to all parties. Half the world are _up_ to it; and it is
my intention to make the other half _down_ to it. LIFE IN LONDON
demands this sort of demonstration. A kind of _cant_ phraseology is
current from one end of the Metropolis to the other: indeed, even in
the time of Lord Chesterfield, he complained of it. In some females of
the highest rank, it is as strongly marked, as in _dingy_
draggled-tail SALL, who is compelled to dispose of a few sprats to
turn an honest penny: and while the latter, in smacking her lips,
talks of her _prime jackey_, an _out-and-out_ concern, a _bit of good
truth_, &c., the former, in her dislikes, tossing her head, observes,
it was _shocking_, _quite a bore_, _beastly, stuff_, &c. The Duchess,
at an Opera, informs the Countess of a ‘_row_’ which occurred on the
last evening with as much _sang-froid_, as CARROTTY POLL mentions to a
_Costardmonger_ the _lark_ she was engaged in, at a gin-spinner’s,
and, in being turned out of the _panny_, got her _ogles_ taken
_measure_ of for a _suit of mourning_. Therefore, some allowance must
be made for an author who is compelled to write under a subdued tone
of expression--in order to keep his promise made to the public in the
PROSPECTUS issued by him prior to the publication of the work. In fact
in many instances, the language of real Life is so very strong,
coarse, and even disgusting, that, in consequence of keeping the above
object in view, the points of many a rich scene are in great danger of
being nearly frittered away; nay, of being almost reduced to tameness
and insipidity. My ingenious friends, ROBERT and GEORGE CRUIKSHANK,
whose talents in representing “the living manners as they rise” stand
unrivalled in this peculiar line, feel as strongly impressed with the
value of _delicacy_ as I do. But if some of the plates should appear
rather _warm_, the purchaser of ‘LIFE IN LONDON’ may feel assured,
that nothing is added to them tending to _excite_, but, on the
contrary, they have most anxiously, on all occasions, given the
preference rather to ‘_extenuate_’ than to ‘set down aught in malice.’
All the Plates are the exact representations, as they occurred of the
various classes of society.”
* * * * *
The Prospectus alluded to at page xi., was after the following form.
--“The grand object of this Work is an attempt to portray what is
termed ‘SEEING LIFE’ in all its various bearings upon Society; from
the _high mettled_ CORINTHIAN of St. James’ _swaddled_ in luxury, down
to the _needy Flue-Faker_ of Wapping, _born without a shirt_, and
destitute of a _bit of scran_ to allay his piteous cravings. ‘LIFE IN
LONDON’ then, is the sport in view; and provided the _Chase_ is turned
to good account. ‘SEEING LIFE’ will be found to have its _advantages_.
No leaning upon the elbows is necessary to _imagine scenes_, after the
manner of the ‘Mysteries of Udolpho,’ neither has it been deemed
expedient to have a fairy stationed upon a Lake, during the thunder
and lightning of some dreadful night, in order to work up the mind of
the Writer to depict what he has seen, with a touch of the terrific.
“The DESIGNS have been sketched, as they occurred, and the Artists, in
conjunction with the Writer, have booked the ‘GLOWING SCENE, _fraught
with fun, gaiety, style_, anecdote, _and character_,’ at the moment it
presented itself, and which, if once lost sight of, perhaps, could
never have been retraced;--instead of trusting to their _recollection_
at an after period, which has too often been the cause of giving a
sort of _insipidity_ and _dulness_, characterizing ‘STILL’ instead of
the fire and animation that hovers over ‘_Real_’ LIFE.
“It will, also, be found that ‘JERRY’ had higher objects in view, than
_breaking a Watchman’s lantern_, and agitating a _tinkler_ to _queer_
the _Roosters_, or, that his energies and talents existed _only_ in a
Row. It is not necessary, however, to dilate on the merits of a Work
that affords such an inexhaustible scope, as ‘Life in London;’
neither, perhaps, is it too much to conclude, that it will be a
production, at which the GRAVE may smile, the GAY feel delight, the
COMICAL laugh heartily, and the PATHETIC have occasion for a wipe. The
MODEST it is trusted, will not have occasion to turn aside with
disgust, nor the MORALIST to shut the book offended. The CORINTHIANS
likewise, will have no occasion to be ashamed to acknowledge ‘TOM’ as
one of their party; the UNIVERSITIES not the slightest complaint to
_expel_, or even _rusticate_ ‘BOB LOGIC,’ nor the large Family of the
HAWTHORNS to disown--poor JERRY, for his SPREES and RAMBLES in the
METROPOLIS.”
* * * * *
During the periodic publication of LIFE IN LONDON it was generally
supposed that the character-parts! of TOM, JERRY and LOGIC, were portraits
of particular individuals, and there was much speculation and ink-slinging
in respect to “_Who is Who?_” In the House of Lords it was whispered that
the gallant and daring TOM represented his Grace the Duke of Wellington;
JERRY, his Grace the Duke of Buckingham; and LOGIC, no less a personage
than the Lord Chancellor. In the House of Commons it was said that TOM was
intended for that worthy legal bibliophile, Mr. Butterworth, the pious
member for Coventry; that Mr. Martin of Galway, pleaded guilty to JERRY;
and the acute and knowing Mr. Hume sat for the all-awake leary LOGIC. On
the other hand it was positively asserted at the West-end that TOM
_type-ified_ the elegant and spirited Colonel Berkeley; that the
unsophisticated hopeful sprig of rurality, JERRY, was drawn, _ad vivum_,
from Mr. Pea-Green Hayne,[11] while LOGIC absolutely personated that
notorious _modern Greek scholar_, the _learned, larking, laconic, Parson
Colton_.[12]
In the City, _per contra_, it was _currently reported on ’Change_ that
TOM, from his love of fun, and knowledge of good living, was the _locum
tenens_ of that _great_ and _learned_ man, and most facetious Banking
Baronet, Sir William--more succinctly and familiarly _Billy_--Curtis, of
the “_three R.’s_” notoriety;[13]--that JERRY was the picture of Mr.
_Treble_, _X_ Sheriff Parkins; and that LOGIC was an outline of Mr.
Alderman Wood. But, Mr. W. T. Moncrieff states that he can, however,
safely assert that all these suppositions are totally unfounded, as the
characters of TOM, JERRY and LOGIC, were autobiographical sketches of the
_artists_ to whom they severally originally owe their being. The talented,
spirited George Cruikshank was himself, in all the better points, the
TOM--of the Corinthian Order; he is so admirably delineated; his very
clever brother Isaac Robert, then perhaps less experienced, condescended
to pass for JERRY, and the _downey_ Pierce Egan--“‘None but himself can be
his parallel’[14]--was his own LOGIC--the Oxonian in green
specs--gig-lamps!” Mr. Moncrieff continues--“they having _tria juncta in
uno_ produced the admirable foundation of this Piece.[15] May they
speedily furnish the public with some more of their _larks_, _sprees_ and
_rambles_--the world will thank them for the gift.”
It is now a matter of history that the Brothers Cruikshank, first designed
and engraved the Plates for the original Edition of LIFE IN LONDON, and,
then, Pierce Egan wrote the letter-press up to them from month to month to
the completion of the work in July, 1821.
To this order of things there was, however, one exception, namely in
December, 1820,--“’twas Christmas, merry Christmas time, when ‘Man being
reasonable, must get drunk,’” and Pierce Egan, admitted that he got too
much _Daffy_ aboard the over night, and that on waking up late the next
morning he found his pocket-book containing his _Notes!_ _i.e._, “copy”
absent without leave. He therefore published at page 275 as follows:--
TO THE SUBSCRIBERS TO “LIFE IN LONDON.”
THE AUTHOR IN DISTRESS![16]
He jests at a “LARK” that never felt a SCRATCH!
My numerous and dearest Friends:--
Of necessity, I am compelled to state to you, that having accepted an
invitation from BOB LOGIC, about three weeks since, to spend an
evening with him and a few of his _Swell Pals_, at the _Albany_, I
pleaded business, and that the “_First of the Month_” must come. “I
know it,” replied BOB, “but it shall be a _sober_ set-out: PIERCE, you
shall _tipple_ as you like.” In consequence of BOB’S _plausibility_, I
was _gammoned_ to be one of the _squad_. Mixed liquors and _steamers_
were the order of the _darkey_. But he praised so highly a cargo of
_daffy_, which he had just received from the NONPAREIL[17] that
_Daffy_ and _water_ was the preferred _suit_. After a glass or two had
been _sluiced_ over the _ivories_ of the party, which made some of
them begin loudly to _chaff_, BOB gave the _wink_ to his _slavey_,
observing that more hot water was wanted. A large kettle, boiling at
the spout, was speedily introduced, but instead of _water_ read
_boiling Daffy_. The assumed gravity of BOB’S _mug_ upon playing off
this _trick_ was quite a treat, but I am happy to say _Crooky
booked_[18] it. “Come, gents,” said BOB, “please yourselves, here is
plenty of water, now mix away.” It had the desired effect. The glass
was pushed about so quickly; that the “First of the Month” was soon
_forgotten_, and we kept it up till very long after the REGULARS had
been _tucked_ up in their _dabs_, and only the _Roosters_ and the
“_Peep-o’-Day-Boys_” were out on the prowl for a _spree_. At length a
_move_ was made, but not a _rattler_ was to be had. BOB and the party,
_chaffing_, proposed to see the _Author_ safe to his _sky-parlour_.
The boys were _primed_ for anything. Upon turning the corner of
_Sydney’s Alley_, into Leicester-Fields,[19] we were assailed by some
_trouble customers_, and a _turn-up_ was the result (as the Plate[20]
most accurately represents). BOB got a _stinker_, and poor I received
a _chancery-suit_ upon the _nob_. How I reached the _upper-story_, I
know not; but, on waking late in the day, I found my pocket-book was
absent--without leave. I was in great grief at its loss, not on
account of the _blunt_ it contained--much worse--the _notes_ in it
were dearer than gold to me. The account of JERRY’S introduction to
the Marchioness of Diamonds, the Duchess of Hearts, Lady Wanton, Dick
Trifle, Bill Dash, &c., &c., on his appearance in Rotten Row with the
CORINTHIAN, _booked_ on the spot. I was in a complete _funk_. I
immediately went to _sartain persons_, and communicated my loss;
_how_, _where_, and _when_; and I was consoled, that, if it were safe,
PIERCE EGAN should have it. Day after day passed, and no account of
it;--I gave it up for lost, and scratched my _moppery_, again and
_again_, but could not recollect _accurately_, the substance of my
notes. I was sorry for myself;--I was sorry for the public. However,
on Friday morning last, taking a _turn_ into Paternoster Row, my
friend Jones[21] smiling, said he had got the Book:--as he is fond of
a bit of _gig_, I thought he was in _fun_,--but, on handing it over to
me, with the following letter, my _peepers_ twinkled again with
delight.
_To the care of Mr. Jones, for_ P. EGAN.
Sir,--You see as how I have sent that ere _Litter_.[22] Pocket-Book,
which so much _row_ has been _kicked_ up about amongst us. Vy it an’t
vorth a single _tonic_,[23] _Who’s_ to understand it? vy it’s full of
pot-hooks and hangers[24]--and not a _screen_[25] in it. You are
determined nobody shall _nose_ your _idears_. If your name had not
been _chaunted_ in it, it would have been _dinged_ into the _dunagan_.
But remember, no _conking_.
From yours, &c.,
TIM HUSTLE.
Dec. 20, 1820.
The joy I felt on recovering my Pocket-Book I cannot communicate. The
return of it, however, arrived too late to prevent the following:--
APOLOGY.
In consequence of BOB LOGIC’S _Daffy_, only one sheet of Letter Press
accompanies the Plates of No. 5; but, to make up for this unavoidable
deficiency, THREE SHEETS of Letter Press will be given in No. 6.
I therefore trust, under the circumstances of the case, a liberal
allowance will be made, when it is recollected that such RAMBLES and
SPREES FIRST gave the Author an idea of detailing some of the “_rich
scenes_” which are only to be found in
LIFE IN LONDON.
Wishing health and happiness, united with the compliments of the
season, to all my numerous Subscribers,
I remain,
Your much obliged and humble servant,
P. EGAN.
_Sky-Parlour,
January 1, 1821._
In CHAPTER XIV. of the original LIFE IN LONDON, there is such a graphic
description of TOM, JERRY and LOGIC--the _Oxonian_; making a “_jolly_
NIGHT _of it_” at the once famed Vauxhall Gardens: written in so truly a
_Piercy Egania!!!_ style that we are tempted to reproduce it in its
entirety for the benefit of our readers, together with a few _Notes_ of
our own to follow.
----“I perceive,” said TOM, “on perusing the newspaper, Vauxhall
Gardens are open, and therefore, JERRY, to-night we will pay them a
visit.” “It is an extraordinary place, indeed,” replied HAWTHORN, “if
my _Old Dad_ and _Mam_ have not exaggerated its grandeur; but, as the
_old people_ have not been used to _sights_, it may account for their
astonishment and rapture in speaking about them.” “I am not surprised
at that,” answered TOM, smiling; “in my humble opinion, it has not its
equal in the world. There is nothing like it in Paris. PLEASURE holds
her court at _Vauxhall_. In those gay regions, you are liable to
jostle against the _gods_ and _goddesses_--BACCHUS you will find
frequently at your elbow--VENUS and the _Graces_ passing and
repassing, yet condescendingly _smiling_ upon you--MOMUS surrounded by
fun and laughter--TERPSICHORE attending upon your _steps_--and APOLLO
winding up the whole with the most pleasing harmony.” “NO LETHE, then
is necessary at Vauxhall, I suppose,” said JERRY, ironically,
interrupting TOM. “Yes, my dear COZ,” answered the CORINTHIAN. “It
might be inferred that nearly, if not all the visitors, upon entering
Vauxhall Gardens, had drank of the waters of LETHE, for everything
else seems to be _forgotten_ on joining this enchanting scene:
however, I can speak for myself in this respect.” “Excellently well
defined, TOM,” replied LOGIC. “To me, Vauxhall is the festival of LOVE
and HARMONY, and produces a most happy mixture of society. There is no
_precision_ about it, and every person can be _accommodated_, however
_substantial_, or _light_ and _airy_ their _palates_. If _eating_, my
dear JERRY, is the object in view, you will perceive tables laid out
in every box, and the order is only wanted by the waiter instantly to
gratify the appetite. If _drinking_, the _punch_ is so prime, and
immediately follows the call, that it will soon make you as lively as
a harlequin. If inclined to _waltz_ or to _reel_, partners can be
procured without the formality of a master of the ceremonies. If you
are fond of _singing_, the notes of that ever-green, MRS. BLAND, never
fail to touch the heart. If attached to _music_, the able performers
in the orchestra, the Pandean minstrels, and regimental bands, in
various parts of the gardens, prove quite a treat. If _promenading_ is
your _forte_, you will find illuminated walks of the most interesting
and animated description. Numerous persons of the highest quality:
myriads of lovely females, with gaiety beaming upon every countenance;
and the pleasure of meeting with old friends and acquaintances, render
the _tout ensemble_ impressively elegant and fascinating. Even the
_connoisseur_ in paintings may find subjects at Vauxhall too rich to
be passed over in haste. In short, there is such an endless variety of
amusements, in rapid succession, from the song to the dance--from
refreshment to the glass--from the cascade to the fireworks, that time
positively flies in these Gardens. _Reflection_ is not admitted; and
the _senses_ are all upon the alert. You may be as _extravagant_ as
you please, or you need not spend a single _farthing_, if economy is
your object, and not be found fault with neither. If you like it so
best,” continued the _Oxonian_, smiling, “you may be as gay as a
dancing-master, and enter into all the fun and frolic by which you are
surrounded; or you can be as _decorous_ as a parson in his pulpit, and
be nothing more than a common observer. But if _enjoyment_ is your
_motto_, you may make the most of an evening in these Gardens more
than at any other place in the Metropolis. It is all free and
easy--stay as long as you like, and depart when you think proper.”
“Your description is so flattering,” replied JERRY, “that I do not
care how soon the time arrives for us to start.” LOGIC proposed a “bit
of a stroll,” in order to get rid of an hour or two, which was
immediately accepted by TOM and JERRY. A _turn_ or two in Bond
Street--a _stroll_ through Piccadilly--a “_look in_” at
Tattersall’s--a _ramble_ through Pall Mall--and a _strut_ on the
_Corinthian Path_, fully occupied the time of our heroes till the hour
for dinner arrived, when a few glasses of TOM’S rich wines soon put
them on the _qui vive_; VAUXHALL was then the object in view, and the
TRIO started, bent upon enjoying all the pleasures which this place so
amply affords to its visitors.
“It is really delightful,” exclaimed JERRY, on his entering the
Gardens, during the first act of the concert; “I was, on my first
visit, enraptured with Sydney Gardens, at Bath; but, I must confess,
that the brilliancy of this scene is so superior that it appears to me
like a NEW WORLD, and you have not, my friends, _overrated_ it.”
HAWTHORN, under the guidance of his _pals_, was not long in exploring
the illuminated walks, the rotunda, and everything belonging to this
fashionable place of resort. Our hero was in high spirits; LOGIC was
also _ripe_ for a _spree_; and the CORINTHIAN so agreeable in
disposition, that he made known to his two friends he was ready to
_accommodate_ them in any proposition they might feel inclined to
make. JERRY expressed himself much pleased with the arrangement and
performance of the concert; and he likewise observed, the music of the
songs reflected considerable credit on the talents of the
composer.[26] On passing through the rooms attached to the rotunda, in
which the paintings of _Hogarth_ and _Hayman_[27] are exhibited, and
also the portraits of the late King and Queen, on their coming to the
throne, JERRY, with a smile, retorted upon LOGIC, “that those
paintings certainly could not be passed over in haste, if the
proprietors of the _Gardens_ thought _catalogues_ were not necessary,
it would, however, prove much more pleasing to the visitors if a few
lines were painted under them, by way of _explanation_.” “I must agree
with your remarks,” replied LOGIC; “no visitor ought to be suffered to
remain in the _dark_ on any subject amidst such a blaze of
illumination. Never mind criticising any more about these pictures;
let us retire to a nice little box, for I assure you my _ogles_ have
feasted enough, and I stand in need of much more substantial
refreshment. Some burnt-wine, _ham shavings_,[28] chickens, sherry,
and a lively drop of arrack-punch, my boys, will enable us to finish
the evening like _trumps_.” “A good proposition,” cried TOM. “It is,”
said JERRY; “and I second it.” The TRIO immediately left the _gay_
scene, for a short period, to partake of all the _choice_ articles
which the larder could produce to please their palates. The _bottle_
was not suffered to stand still by our heroes, and the _punch_ also
moved off with great facility, till the lively military band invited
them once more to join the merry dance, when LOGIC, full of fun and
laughter, said, “he was now able to _reel_ with any lady or gentleman
in the Gardens.” “Yes,” replied TOM, laughing heartily, “I’ll back you
on that score, BOB; but not to _dance_.” The elegant appearance and
address of the CORINTHIAN soon procured him lots of dashing partners:
JERRY was not behind his COZ in that respect; and the agility both our
heroes displayed on the “light fantastic toe” attracted numerous
_gazers_. LOGIC, who was for “pushing along, keep moving,” as he
termed it, was interrupted in his pursuit by a _jack-o’-dandy_ hero,
and who also quizzed the _Oxonian_ with the appellation of “_Old
Barnacles_.” Some sharp words passed in reply from LOGIC, when the
_dandy_, who was rather _snuffy_, as well as impudent, put himself
into a posture of defence, crying out, “Come on my fine _fealow_, I’ll
soon spoil your daylights.” The _Oxonian_ immediately gave the _dandy_
so severe a blow on his head that he measured his length on the ground
like a log of wood: and, on LOGIC perceiving the fallen _dandy_ quite
terrified, he assumed to be in a most violent rage, and addressing two
of the sisterhood near him, with “My dears, if you do not hold my
arms, I am so tremendous a fellow, I shall certainly do him a
mischief.” This piece of bombast had the desired effect; and the
_dandy_, amidst roars of laughter, endeavoured to get up and run away;
but LOGIC held him, and said, “That was the way he took to _correct_
fellows who addressed him improperly; and, to prevent mistakes in
future, he advised him to remember Mr. _Green Specs_.” The _Oxonian_,
anxious to keep up the fun, pretended, all of a sudden, to be in great
agony, and, putting up his hand to his head, exclaimed, in a piteous
tone, “I have got the worst of it after all; I have lost an eye.” “I
hope not,” said a lady, a little advanced in years, who was an
observer of the scene, apparently much grieved at his misfortune.
“Never mind, my love,” replied LOGIC; “it is only a _green_ one; I can
get another,” showing his spectacles, with one of his glasses out. BOB
now _reeled_ off, receiving the applause of the spectators as a very
funny fellow. On the conclusion of the dance, TOM and JERRY traversed
the Gardens, and enjoyed themselves to the utmost extent in all the
variety they afforded, till day-light had long given them the hint it
was time to think of home. LOGIC, as upon former occasions, was not to
be found; and the CORINTHIAN and his COZ were compelled to leave
Vauxhall without him.
[Illustration]
Under the Especial Patronage of HIS MAJESTY.
ROYAL GARDENS, VAUXHALL.--The Proprietors respectfully beg leave to
acquaint the Public that these Gardens having been newly and fancifully
decorated, are now open for the SEASON, every Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday Evenings. TO-MORROW, June 11, Wednesday and Friday Evenings next, a
Vaudeville, written by Mr. Moncrieffe, called ACTORS’ AL FRESCO; or, the
Play in the Pleasure Grounds. With principally original Music composed by
Messrs. T. Cooke, Blewitt, and Horn. Sir Udolph Honeysuckle, Mr. S.
Bennett; Orlando Saville, Mr. Horn; Signor Patrick O’Diddle, Mr.
Fitzwilliam; Jeremy Crambo, Mr. Woulds; Miss Frances Honeysuckle, Miss
Graddon; Miss Penelope Honeysuckle, Miss Pearce; Sally Larkspur, Mrs.
Fitzwilliam; Villagers, &c., &c.--The Vaudeville will begin at a quarter
past eight.--Author and Stage Manager, Mr. Moncrieffe.
An Entirely NEW DIVERTISEMENT (composed by Mr. Ridgway), for which a
numerous Corps de Ballet is engaged.
In the course of the Evening, Mr. BLACKMORE will perform his astonishing
Feats on the Slack Rope.
The FIRE-WORKS, with the wonderful Ascent on the Rope, by BLACKMORE, will
be exhibited with their usual splendour, by those celebrated Artists,
SOUTHBY and D’ERNST.
The CONCERT, which has ever formed a prominent feature, will be performed
as heretofore, in the original and much admired Orchestra, in the open
Gardens; and will consist of entirely new Songs, Duets, Glees, &c.,
composed by Cooke, Blewitt, and Horn, and sung by Messrs. Woulds, Horn,
Benson, Tinney, and Fitzwilliam, Miss Graddon, Mrs. Austin, and Mrs.
Fitzwilliam.
The Military and Scotch Bands, under the direction of Mr. Hopkins will be
in attendance.--Director and Leader of the Music, Mr. T. Cooke; Composers,
Messrs. T. Cooke, Blewitt, and Horn.
The Scenery and Decorations by Messrs. Thorn, Cox, and Assistants.
Mechanists, Messrs. Shaw, Lowe, &c.
A Spectacle of an extraordinary nature, on a scale of magnitude never yet
attempted in any Country, is in preparation, and will speedily be
announced.--Doors open at Seven.--Admission, 4s.
_VAUXHALL._
Vauxhall Gardens--the gay and favourite spot of metropolitan amusement,
and of fashionable resort in the summer season--commenced their
attractions to the public on Monday. The weather was highly favourable.
The entertainments of the evening commenced with a _petit_ piece _Actors’
Al Fresco; or, The Play in The Pleasure Grounds_, by Mr. Moncrieffe. It
was received favourably, though certainly not possessing such claims to
public favour as one might expect from the popular author of _Tom and
Jerry, Don Giovanni, &c._ The Concert consisted of entirely new songs,
duets, glees, &c., composed by Horn, Cooke, and Blewitt; one of the
songs--a comic one--the composition of Blewitt, possessed more merit, both
as to the words and the music, than compositions for a temporary occasion,
like the present, usually do. The space afforded to the public for a view
of the fire-works was more limited than hitherto. This contracted
allowance of accommodation, we understand, is attributable to arrangements
which are making to celebrate the approaching anniversary of the Battle of
Waterloo, on a scale of unequalled brilliancy and splendour. The boxes and
several compartments in the gardens are painted in a pleasing light
colour--a mixture of green and white--which imparts a freshness and rural
appearance to the scene, far more agreeable to the eye than the gaudy
tints which were adopted in the previous decorations.--_Bell’s Life in
London._
[Illustration]
GRAND CORONATION FETE!
UNDER THE SPECIAL PATRONAGE OF HIS MAJESTY.
ROYAL GARDENS, VAUXHALL.--The Proprietors respectfully acquaint the
Public, that it is their intention to celebrate this Anniversary
TO-MORROW, Monday, 21st July, 1828, in a style very superior indeed to any
Gala it has ever been in their power of producing, as they are enabled to
embrace all the distinguished characteristics of the Spanish Fete, in
which the Royal, Noble, and distinguished Visitors were so highly
delighted on the 8th instant. The ANNIVERSARY of the CORONATION of His
MAJESTY may therefore be termed a Superb Repetition of the brilliant
Illuminations, extensive and novel Decorations, &c., &c., of that night;
and the Public are assured, that the most splendid preparations are in
progress, to entertain, delight, and surprise the Visitors. The Gardens
will be made one entire scene of light, by every avenue and walk
exhibiting illuminated Ornaments, Mottoes, &c., &c., in variegated Lamps
and Transparencies; and the following is a slight Programme of the Night’s
Amusements:--
THE HYDROPYRIC EXHIBITION, which increases nightly in the favour of the
Public, will be performed with all its numerous cascades of coloured fire
and variegated water.
A NEW VAUDEVILLE, in the Rotunda Theatre. The Songs, Duets, &c., adapted
to familiar Airs; previously to which Master Charles will perform a Solo
on the Violin.
RAMO SAMEE, the wonderful Indian Juggler, will delight the Company with
his surprising performances with Knives, Balls, Pyramids, &c., &c.
A SUPERB DISPLAY of FIRE-WORKS will take place immediately after the
Concert. The Proprietors pride themselves much upon the universal
approbation and delight afforded by the displays of Fire-Works at
Vauxhall, and which can be witnessed at no other place of amusement in the
kingdom; and they pledge themselves that the Fire-Works of this Evening
shall be of the very first character. The Artist has directions
(regardless of expense) to produce the most splendid display.
Under the especial Patronage of HIS MAJESTY.
ROYAL GARDENS, VAUXHALL.--TO-MORROW, June 29, Wednesday, July 1, Friday
July 3, will be presented, in the Rotunda, an entirely New Vaudeville,
called
A DAY UP THE RIVER,
With New Music, composed by Mr. T. Cooke and Mr. Blewitt. The characters
by Messrs. T. Cooke, Weekes, G. Smith, Robinson, W. H. Williams; Miss P.
Horton, and Miss Helme.
A CONCERT,
In the open Orchestra, in which several New songs will be introduced for
the first time.
A New Pantomime (first time), called
THE YELLOW DWARF; or Harlequin Knight of the Lion.
Under the direction of Mons. Hullin.
Mr. GREY, having been honoured every Evening with the most unbounded
applause, will continue to exhibit his unrivalled
FANTOCCINI.
The Amusements will terminate with a display of
FIRE-WORKS
Towards the close of which will be exhibited an HYDROPYRIC TEMPLE, from
which will issue a Grand Discharge of Fire, interspersed with Waterfalls,
Cascades, Jets d’Eaux, &c.
Admission for the Season and Nightly Cards may be had at 23, Ludgate-hill;
141, Fleet-street; 8, Charing-cross; 146, Oxford-street; and at the
Gardens.
Books, descriptive of the Amusements and Songs of the Opera and Concert,
to be had in the Gardens only.
The Gardens are opened every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Parties desirous of Dining in the Gardens can be accommodated at or after
Six o’clock.
Doors open at Seven.--Admission 4s.
Under the especial Patronage of HIS MAJESTY.
ROYAL GARDENS, VAUXHALL.--The Proprietors respectfully acquaint the
Public, That these GARDENS WILL OPEN for the SEASON TO-MORROW, Monday,
June 1, and will continue open during the Summer, every Monday, Wednesday
and Friday; and they have the pleasure of announcing that they have
succeeded in obtaining for a few Nights the powerful aid of Miss Fanny
Ayton, Mesdames, Castelli and De Angioli, Signor Torri, Guiberlel, De
Angiolli, and Pelegrini, to sing in
ITALIAN OPERA BUFFA.
These performers will have the honour of appearing on the first night, in
Rossini’s celebrated Opera of Il Barbiere di Seviglia, which will be given
in the Rotunda Theatre. The Musical Department under the direction of Mr.
T. Cooke; Conductor Mr. Blewitt.
A CONCERT,
As heretofore, in the original Orchestra in the open Gardens, consisting
of New Songs, Duets, &c., to be sung by Mr. W. H. Williams, Mr. Robinson,
Mr. G. Smith, and Mr. Weekes (from the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane), Miss P.
Horton (Pupil of Mr. Blewitt), and Miss Helme.
An entire new COMIC BALLET will be performed in the open Theatre, under
the direction of Mons. Hullin, called
POLICHINEL VAMPIRE.
The Dancers principally from the Opera Theatre, assisted by numerous corps
de ballet. Leader of the Ballet, Mr. R. Hughes.
The Scenery, with various paintings and many New Cosmoramas, dispersed
about the Gardens, by Mr. Cocks and Assistants. The amusements will
terminate with a display of
FIRE-WORKS.
Towards the close of which will be exhibited an HYDROPYRIC TEMPLE, from
which will issue a Grand Discharge of Fire, interspersed with Waterfalls,
Cascades, Jets d’Eaux, &c. The Fire-Works’ Artists are Mr. Southby and Mr.
D’Ernst, whose inimitable displays have given such unmixed satisfaction
for several successive Seasons.--The Military and Scotch Bands under the
direction of Mr. Hopkins.
Admission for the Season and Nightly Cards may be had at 23, Ludgate-hill;
141, Fleet-street; 148, Oxford-street; and at the Gardens.
Books, descriptive of the Amusements and Songs of the Opera and Concerts,
to be had in the Gardens only.
The Italian Opera will begin at Ten o’clock. Doors open at
Seven.--Admission, 4s.
[Illustration]
UNDER THE ESPECIAL PATRONAGE OF HIS MAJESTY.
ROYAL GARDENS, VAUXHALL.--OPEN EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, and
FRIDAY.--TO-MORROW (Monday), 14th July, a variety Entertainment will be
given, consisting of an entirely New Vaudeville, entitled SHE WOULD IF SHE
COULD. Adapted to favourite and familiar Airs. Characters by Mr. T. Cooke,
Mr. S. Bennett, Mr W. H. Williams, Miss Knight, Miss Helme, and Mrs.
Younge, &c., &c., &c.--The New Pantomime, called HARLEQUIN IN THE
BOTTLE.--A Concert in the open Orchestra. The Dioramic Pictures,
Cosmoramas, and Spectre Grove. The unrivalled Performances of the
celebrated CHING LAURO.--To conclude with the GRAND NOVELTY of the
HYDROPYRIC EXHIBITION, which is received with the most tumultuous marks of
approbation, forming a display of Water and Fire-Works never before
attempted in any country. The Military and Scotch Bands as usual.--Doors
open at Seven.--Admission, 4s.--Books, with all the particulars of the
Performance, in the Rotunda Theatre, Ballet, open Orchestra, &c., &c., to
be had only in the Gardens.--Beware of spurious Pamphlets, pressed upon
the Public at the entrance.
UNDER THE ESPECIAL PATRONAGE OF HIS MAJESTY.
ROYAL GARDENS, VAUXHALL.--For a FEW NIGHTS LONGER.--The Proprietors
respectfully inform the Public, that in consequence of the decided
favourable state of the Weather, the Gardens will be Open TO-MORROW,
Wednesday and Friday, when the UNION GALA will be repeated with (if
possible) increased splendour and effect. The whole of the Illuminations,
Decorations, Mottoes, &c., which afforded so much delight last Evening,
will be again exhibited, and a continual succession of Entertainments take
place from the time the doors open, including the amusing LOTTERY
PRESENTS.--Doors open at Seven. Admission, 4s.
SURREY THEATRE.--Under the direction of Mr. ELLISTON, TO-MORROW, June 16,
will be presented THE MILLER’S MAID. Giles, Mr. Rayner; Phoebe, Mrs.
Fitzwilliam. With DIE NACHTIGAL UND DER RABE. And THE INCHCAPE BELL. Hans
Hattock, Mr. Osbaldiston; Guy Ruthven, Mr. Rayner.--Tuesday, Inkle and
Yarico. With Die Nachtigal und Der Rabe. And Giovanni in
London.--Wednesday, 1st time at this Theatre, the extravaganza of Tom and
Jerry; or, Life in London. After which Master Burns will appear (for the
1st time) in six characters in A Day after the Fair. With the Inchcape
Bell.--Thursday, Tom and Jerry. With Die Nachtigal und Der Rabe. And The
Inchcape Bell.--Friday, Tom and Jerry. With Die Nachtigal und Der Rabe.
And The Inchcape Bell.--Saturday, Tom and Jerry With Die Nachtigal und Der
Rabe. And Love’s Frailties.
[Illustration]
GRAND MASQUERADE, Argyll Rooms, first of the Season.--The brilliant éclat
which has lately attended this peculiar and popular species of
entertainment, urges as early re-commencement of such festive gaieties,
and in compliance with the general wish, TO-MORROW, Monday, November 30,
is appointed for the first GRAND FESTA DI BALLO. The Splendid Suite of
Rooms will be newly Embellished, Decorated, and Brilliantly Illuminated.
LITOLF and ADAMS’ BAND, with the New Massaroni Quadrilles! arranged from
the popular Music of “The Brigand,” now performing with great success at
the Theatre Royal, Drury-lane, will be stationed in the Grand Ball Room,
newly decorated as LE SALON DE MARS! The Emblematic Devices, Banners,
Trophies, &c., &c., by the most Eminent Artists.
Numerous Professional Dancers, from the Italian Opera House, and Theatres
Royal, are Expressly Engaged, to enliven the scene with a constant
succession of French, English, Italian, Irish, German and Scotch, Dances,
particularly THE GALLOPADE! which will be introduced immediately after
Supper.
The Court of Momus will be furnished with an Effective Band for Country
Dances! and occasionally enlivened with the Eccentric Efforts of numerous
Artists, expressly engaged for this SPLENDID CARNIVAL.
“All kinds of dresses splendid and fantastical;
Masks of all times and nations, Turks and Jews,
Mimes, Harlequins and Clowns, with feats gymnastical;
Greeks, Romans, Yankeedoodles and Hindoos.”--Lord Byron.
AN ELEGANT SUPPER will be provided under the superintendence of Mr.
Phillips, of Steyne House, Brighton, and Oxford-street, London; and the
Room will be opened at One o’Clock--to enliven which PROFESSIONAL GLEE
SINGERS will be engaged, and at intervals a GRAND MILITARY BAND will
perform some of the most favourite Overtures from La Muette de Portici,
Siège de Corinth, Crociato in Egitto, &c., &c.
[Illustration: _CHARLES WRIGHT’S Apparition appearing to an
Hypochondriac._]
Dans l’age heureux de la folie
En fêtes, dissipant nos jours.
Nous suivons la route embellie,
Par les Muses et les Amours.
Au refrein des Tambourins,
Au tic tac des Castignettes,
Au jug jug du jus divin,
Amis, chassons le chagrin
Lorsque le Champagne.
Fait eu s’echappant Pan! Pan!
Ce doux bruit me gagne
L’ame et le tympane.
Further particulars will be duly announced.--Masks, Dominoes, Character
and Fancy Dresses, to be had at the Masquerade Warehouse, Opera Colonade,
Haymarket.
Tickets of Admission, One Guinea each; for Supper Tickets, 7s. 6d. each;
and Private Boxes to view the Masquerade without mixing in the Motley
Group, Domino, and Character Tickets, apply to Mr. Charles Wright, next
the King’s Theatre, Opera Colonade, Haymarket.
[Illustration]
[Illustration]
DUCROW’S BENEFIT.
ROYAL AMPHITHEATRE (ASTLEY’S).--MR. DUCROW has the honour of announcing
his BENEFIT REPRESENTATION TO-MORROW EVENING, Sept. 7. For the full detail
of the Novelties prepared, it will be necessary to refer to the hand
bills, but the three following are leading features totally new, and have
never been performed, viz.:--BONAPARTE’S PASSAGE OF THE MOUNT ST. BERNARD,
for the Stage; to commence at a Quarter-past Six; and Mr. Ducrow’s two new
Scenes for the Circle, of St. George and the Dragon, with its splendid
Pageant, in honour of the Champion’s brave and puissant deed. With “Make
way for Liberty; or, the Flight of the Saracens.” In addition to these he
will represent the Animated Venetian Statue; or, Living Models of
Antiques; and will appear with Miss Woolford on the Double Tight Rope. The
exercises of the German Rider, Herr Berg, and a variety of other
Entertainments.--To conclude with the Grand Romantic Spectacle of THE
CATARACT OF THE GANGES.--Tickets to be had and places secured at the Box
Office, from Eleven till Four.
To give the present generation of playgoers an insight into the manners
and customs of the so-called “good old days:” and in the “hot youth” of
our great grandfathers--and mothers: when George the Fourth was King of
England: the dramatic version of TOM AND JERRY; OR, LIFE IN LONDON, is
occasionally revived at one or other of the Metropolitan Minor Theatres.
In 1868 Mr. Joseph A. Cave produced with distinguished success Moncrieff’s
Adelphi adaptation, carefully revised at the:--
VICTORIA THEATRE.
It was announced thus:--
The Performance will commence with the Rattling, Rollicking, Rumantic
and Picturesque Drama of every-day Society, in its highest and lowest
phases, written by that celebrated reviewer of Mankind, the late W. T.
Moncrieff, entitled
TOM AND JERRY;
OR,
Life in London Fifty Years Ago!
Squire Hawthorn An Old English Gentleman,
one of the olden time Mr. J. BRADSHAW
Jerry Hawthorn His Nephew, rather verdant,
until brought out Mr. JAMES FAWN
Farmer Cornflower--Mr. MILLER Sir Harry Blood--a Buck--Mr. FASHION
Bill Pointer--an awkward one--Mr. TERRIER Claw--a Lawyer--Mr. J. BAKER
Tom, alias Corinthian Tom--a blood of the
first water-- Mr. J. H. FITZPATRICK
Regular a Tiger, who knows his business Miss HUNT Servant--Mr. ALFREDS
SPORTSMAN’S CABINET,
HAWTHORN HALL.
Life in the Country--the party--preparations for the Departure of
Jerry.
“_Horses sound, dogs healthy, | Earths stopped, and foxes plenty._”
A Country Gentleman’s Idea of London Life.
Tom sets them on the right road--the word pledged--he shall go--one
gone already--who? why, the Village Lawyer--Where? under the Table.
_A Country Lane! Life and Love in a Cottage!_
Jane a blossom of affection Miss HARRIET FARREN
Sue in love with Jerry Miss FLORENCE FARREN
Kate in love with Tom, and resolved
upon reclaiming him Miss LIZZIE GRAY
Tom’s Sanctum in Corinthian Lodge.
Bob, otherwise Dr. Logic--a fly individual, fully acquainted with the
classical language of the Holy Land, or in other words St. Giles’s
Greek Mr. W. H. HARMER
Primefit--a West-end Tailor, in other words, a sufferer--Mr. J. BAKER
Jerry gets an Introduction to Fast Life--Tom’s Advice and Lesson--How
the Trio started for Enjoyment.
BURLINGTON ARCADE.
The Lovers in Ambush--the Note--Tom receives a chaffing from Logic.
Jemmy Green from the City Mr. F. MITCHELL
Mr. Tattersall well known Mr. M. ROBERTS
Cope and Gullum Touters Messrs. BAKER & WARE
Prance an Ostler Mr. ARTHUR
Jockeys, Yorkshire Coves, Black Legs, &c.
A look in at Tattersall’s--Tom and Jerry’s judgment in purchasing a
Prad--how Jemmy Green bought a horse and was taken home and in by it.
HYDE PARK CORNER.
Tom and Jerry express their opinion strongly--the assignation--Tom’s
appointment--Logic improves Jerry’s opinion of Town Education.
LIFE IN THE WEST
(ALMACK’S).
Act 2.
LIFE IN THE EAST
(ALL-MAX).
Dusty Bob Mr. R. H. KITCHEN
Black Sal Mr. T. LAMB
Mr. Mace Mine Host Mr. M. ROBERTS
Rosin a Fiddler Mr. SCRAPE
Mahogany Mary Miss BROWN
Mr. & Mrs. Lillywhite Mr. & Miss BLACK
Bob, Tom and Logic in prime trim--the Treat--Put round the Lush--Dusty
Bob and his Sarah.
Pas de Deux Messrs. R. H. KITCHEN & T. LAMB.