THE ORPHAN;

OR,

 The Unhappy Marriage.

A TRAGEDY,

IN FIVE ACTS.

BY THOMAS OTWAY.

CORRECTLY GIVEN,

AS PERFORMED AT THE THEATRES ROYAL.

 With Remarks.

London:

Printed by D. S. Maurice, Fenchurch-street; SOLD BY T. HUGHES, 35, LUDGATE STREET, AND J. BYSH, 52, PATERNOSTER ROW; & J. CUMMING, DUBLIN.

REMARKS.

To the great merit of Miss O'Neil, in Monimia, we are indebted for the revival of this tragedy, which was originally played at the Duke's Theatre, in 1680; and long kept possession of the stage. The language of this play is poetical and tender, and the incidents affecting; but, amidst many beauties, there is great inconsistency*.

Dr. Johnson observes,—"This is one of the few pieces that has pleased for almost a century, through all the vicissitudes of dramatic fashion. Of this play, nothing new can easily be said. It is a domestic tragedy, drawn from middle life:—its whole power is upon the affections; for it is not written with much comprehension of thought, or elegance of expression. But, if the heart is interested, many other beauties may be wanting; yet not be missed."

* Many readers will, probably, exclaim with the critic, when he first saw it,—"Oh! what an infinite deal of mischief would a farthing rush-light have prevented!"

DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.

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