Note 8 — II. THE BABY’S DEBUT. [5a]

This alludes to the Young Betty mania. The writer was in the stage-box at the height of this young gentleman’s popularity. One of the other occupants offered, in a loud voice, to prove that Young Betty did not understand Shakespeare. “Silence!” was the cry; but he still proceeded. “Turn him out!” was the next ejaculation. He still vociferated. “He does not understand Shakespeare;” and was consequently shouldered into the lobby. “I’ll prove it to you,” said the critic to the doorkeeper. “Prove what, sir?” “That he does not understand Shakespeare.” This was Molière’s housemaid with a vengeance.