THE FREE TRADE BAZAAR.
Covent Garden Theatre has undergone a metamorphosis as striking as any change wrought on its stage by the wand of Harlequin. The sombre Done portico is become the entrance to an illuminated Gothic ball, wherein the Free Trade Bazaar of the Anti-Corn-law League is to be held next week. The "hall" was lighted up this evening to show the effect; which is very beautiful. From the centre of the dress-circle of boxes, the oye looks down two rows of slender pillars supporting a roof fashioned like that of Wolsey's Hall at Hampton Court, but covered with transparent painting- a mimic stained glass window closing the vista, which is 150 feet long, and lighted by Gothic lanterns. The curved front* of the boxes are just visible behind the scenic architecture that masks the in- terior; otherwise, so complete is the metamorphosis that no one would the scene of Siddons's and Kemble's glory. The wider portion of the 7V where it creases the stage, displays arched recesses hung with mimic drapery. A double row of counters extending the whole length, and tables at the sides and in the recesses, will be covered with articles for sale; and ladies will preside as dames de comptoir.
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