Literary
BELL
(Robert, 1800-1867, Editor and Dramatist)
Autograph Verses on the laying of the Foundation Stone by Prince Albert
of the Royal Dramatic College, Maybury, recalling Rosalind and Beatrice... that rapturous old time... Day-dreams they were to us - both! Haunting us. And now - I'm loth - Loth to tell you what a change Years have made... And, worse still, that they should be Old & steeped in poverty. You must help us: we are laying Plans to comfort them; we're praying Everyone to give us funds Towards a pretty house & grounds. You shall see the First Stone laid; On it place your purse in aid... the tribute is To Rosalind and Beatrice, 34 lines, engraved heading Foundation Stone laid by His Royal Highness the Prince Consort, 4 sides small 8vo., Maybury, near Woking, Surrey, 'Foundation Day', 1st June
Item Date: 1860
tear in fold but holding, traces of former mending
Background
Besides the laying of the foundation stone, there was a great fair to raise money. A score of famous actresses each had a stall of fancy goods, and visitors cheerfully paid over the odds to greet their heroines. Bell's verses recall those who were not so fortunate.
Stock No. 14863