Event Comment: At 5 went into the Pit at
Covent Garden to see
Mrs Yates do
Lady Townly.
Yates is an excellent
Sir Francis, but
Powell does not shine in
Lord Townly....The Entertainment was the new comedy in two acts called the
Oxonian in Town, with a
prologue by
Woodward in the character of a student....It being suspected that a number of sharpers whose characters
and practices are laid open in this piece, would attempt to damn it tonight (the 3rd of its being Performed) under pretence of its casting odium on the
Irish, bills were dispersed in the House during the play vindicating it from any such intention. Woodward was allowed to speak the prologue, but as soon as the curtain drew up catcalls began. When the performers retired, Powell spoke several times, but was not heard. I was told that the author (
Mr Colman) desires to know whom he has offended. The Pros were a very great majority,
and at last after a contest of better than 1!2 an hour, the victory was over
and the piece was performed. I think it contains many good sentiments,
and excellent instruction to young men
and is not unworthy of Mr Colman. If vice must not be exposed to hatred
and contempt, the usefulness of our theatres is at an end. Only I think the Covent Garden pleasures are represented in too favourable a light. When all was over Powell came on the stage
and thanked the audience for their generous protection (
Neville MS Diary). Receipts: #212 12s. (Account Book)