thirty
years' practice and experience I have made a mistake in my dates,
and for the first time in my life find myself engaged to two
managers at the same time. Now, they say a man cannot serve two
masters, but I CAN if they will come one after the other, only one
at a time, one down, t'other come on; but to play at Bristol and the
Gaiety on the same night (and keep it up for a week) I don't see my
way to accomplish. In a moment of enthusiasm I engaged to begin with
Chute on September 29th, and I had scarcely done so when
Hollingshead reminded me that I was booked to begin with him on that
date, and that it could not be altered. Conceive my dismay. Chute
holds fast--'can't be altered.' So does Hollingshead--'can't be
altered.' Now, Toole--_dear_ Toole, BELOVED Toole--can't you stay a
week longer at the Gaiety? CAN'T you let me begin there on Monday,
October 6th (as I thought I did), and get me out of my dilemma?
Can't you make this sacrifice to friendship, and put three or four
hundred more into your pocket? Virtue is not its own reward, but an
extra week of fine business is. Now, Toole--adored Tooley--the best
of men--first of comedians--most amiable of your sex--burst into
tears--throw your arms and sob out, 'Do with me as thou wilt--play
me another week--pay me another three hundred, and be happy.'
Breathless with anxiety, yet swelling with hope, I must await your
answer. Pity the sorrows of a poor old man, and even telegraph
'Yes,' rather than keep me in suspense. What's a week to an
able-bodied low comedian? Child's play! Why, you'll be wanting to
throw in morning performances as well to keep you from rusting. It
really is a _chance_ for you. Avail yourself of it and bless me, and
I'll bless _you_, and Hollingshead will bless us both, and Chute
will bless us all.

"With my intermediate blessing, ever faithfully yours,
"C. J. MATTHEWS."

[Illustration: MR. TOOLE AS "IBSEN."]

This letter Mr. Toole read to me, exactly mimicking the tone and manner
of his old friend whom he still misses. I laughed heartily. "Well, now,
Mr. Toole," said I, as we settled down for a conversation on the art he
loves so well and has served so faithfully, "has the public taste
altered much since you first started in your theatrical career?" "