THE PHOENIX.
[To THE Enrroa OF THE " SPECTATOR."]
SIR,—The Committee of the Phoenix feel that, in view of the great success which has attended the first two productions and the manifest enjoyment of these by the members, it is not impertinent now to bring to their notice the financial position of the Society.
The estimates for the first season of the Phoenix, five pro- duotione, were made on the assumption that a membership of five hundred at a subscription of four guineas could be secured. In making these estimates the Committee relied, and, as experience has already shown, relied justly, on the generosity of the artiste, who give their services, on the kindness of Mr. Wilkinson, who designed and partly bore the cost of the scene, and on the whole-hearted enthusiasm of others who have been ready with ungrudging help.
It is apparent, however, that the Society's work has not yet become sufficiently known to secure the membership necessary to carry out the season's programme. The Committee feel that they need only draw attention to these facts to count on the active assistance of the existing members. If every subscriber will do his or her utmost to secure at least one new member during the present season, the Phoenix can face the future on a more or less assured foundation; but the Committee further hope that amongst the members may be found some who are able and willing to do more, some generous Patrons of the Arts who will feel a prido in making a substantial donation to the Society's funds. This might take the form of the endowment of one production each season, or a contribution towards the cost of the scene (which is the Society's property and can be used for very many of the plays it is intended to revive), or donations towards the general work of the Phoenix or the formation of a permanent wardrobe.
The Committee will welcome any inquiries from intending donors. They feel that the Society's work—that Of the revival of English classic drama—is of more than temporary im- portance; they are assured of the eager and enthusiastic co-operation of the theatrical profession; and inasmuch as they can point with confidence to what has already been done as an earnest of what may yet be achieved, they trust that this appeal for financial support will meet with a prompt and generous responee.—I am, Sir, &c.,
W. S. KENNEDY, Chairman of Committee. Dudley House, 36 Southampton Street, Strand, W.C. 2. [We are very much taken with Mr. Kennedy's suggestion that friends of the Phoenix should endow a performance—should " request " a play, as Essex " requested " Richard II., but for a I better motive. That request, as it happened, cost Essex his life. Rich men have been known to take a hundred stalls for a party of friends met to commemorate a silver wedding. Why not instead arrange for a reproduction of Dryden's ,411 for Lova- ED. Spectator.]
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