PORTRAIT OF THE MADONNA.
Reading edition
They haunt me still—those calm, pure, holy eyes; Their piercing sweetness wanders through my dreams: The soul of music that within them lies, Comes o'er my soul in soft and sudden gleams. Are there not deep, sad oracles to read In the calm stillness of that radiant face? Yes, even like thee must gifted spirits bleed, Thrown on a world, for heavenly things no place.
One Female Figure.
This portrait tableau is produced in the same manner as that of "Gabrielle." The lady who personates the Madonna should be of good figure, fine, regular features, eyes large and expressive, a full face and dark hair. Costume consists of white dress open slightly in front, sleeves long and flowing, a velvet cape thrown negligently over the shoulders, a large cross suspended from the neck by a necklace of wax beads, the hair puffed slightly at the side, and arranged in a neat coil at the back, and a large braid passed across the top of the head. She should partially face the audience, the head slightly inclined forward, eyes cast upward, hands clasped in front of the breast, and lips partly open, the countenance expressing earnestness and meekness. Light will be required at the front of the stage, and must be of medium brilliancy. Music of a sacred and plaintive style.
