Note 9 — Chapter IV · 1871. ‘THE BELLS’—WILLS’S ‘CHARLES I.’

Originally the piece opened with the second act, and the manager was said to have exclaimed: “Oh, bother politics! give us some domestic business.” This led to the introduction of the tranquil, pastoral scene at Hampton Court. The closing scene, as devised by the author, represented the capture of the king on the field of battle. “Won’t do,” said the “Colonel” bluntly; “must wind up with another domestic act.” Sorely perplexed by this requirement, which they felt was correct, both author and actor tried many expedients without success, until one evening, towards the small hours, the manager, who appeared to be dozing in his chair, suddenly called out: “Look at the last act of ‘Black-eyed Susan,’ with the prayer-book, chain, and all.” All which may be legendary, and I give it for what it is worth.