Note 63 — CHAP. VII.
John Ernest Galliard translation
Sifacio, famous beyond any, for the most singular Beauty of his Voice. His Manner of Singing was remarkably plain, consisting particularly in the Messa di Voce, the putting forth his Voice, and the Expression.
There is an Italian Saying, that an hundred Perfections are required in an excellent Singer, and he that hath a fine Voice has ninety-nine of them.
It is also certain, that as much as is allotted to Volubility and Tricks, so much is the Beauty of the Voice sacrificed; for the one cannot be done without Prejudice to the other.
Sifacio got that Name from his acting the Part of Syphax the first time he appeared on the Stage. He was in England when famous, and belonged to King James the Second's Chapel. After which he returned to Italy, continuing to be very much admired, but at last was waylaid, and murthered for his Indiscretion.