Having now run the gauntlet of half-a-dozen Christmas pieces at
the leading theatres, we are able to confirm by personal experience our last week's report. If there be any difference, it is that the Pantomimes are worse than was stated: there is not a laugh in one of them. It was curious to witness the smiling eagerness with which people, both old and young, made ready to enjoy their annual feast of fun; and the gradual change from grinning to yawning as fatigue and disappointment wearied their patience. The tricks are few, and not new; the satirical jests poor and pointless; and of humour there is an utter absence in the Clowns and Pantaloons: the absurdity, noise and bustle of pantomime, alone remains—a grotesque caput mortutun of drollery. The burlesques are really diverting; the Lyceum piece most so: the Haymarket one is a very pleasant entertainment, and both are splendid spectacles. There is amusement also in Oat at the Princess's; though those who know best The_Miller and his Men will most enjoy, the fun of the travestie..
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