Memoir of Henry Compton. Edited by Charles and Edward Comp-
ton. (Tinsley Brothers.)—The fame that is won upon the Stage passes away so quickly, that some of our readers may need to be reminded that Henry Compton (his real name was Charles Mackenzie) was a comic actor of high repute, who died not quite two years ego. It must not be supposed that the life of a comedian is necessarily very full of fun, or that his biography is sure to be entertaining. Mr. Compton'a habits wore as domestic and regular ns if he had been a preacher instead of an actor; and he does not appear to have found a Boswell in private life to preserve his conversation. The best part of this volume is to be found in the letters which form its conclusion. Among these, that from Mr. Charles Mathews may be noted as especially good. All the volume, doubtless, will be welcome to play• . goers, who will be glad to renew their recollections of one who was both an accomplished actor and a blameless gentleman.
Previous page
