There was some idea of Pearl Craigie writing a play for Henry Irving and
me, but it never came to anything. There was a play of hers on the same
subject as "The School for Saints," and another about Guizot.
"_February 11, 1898._
"My very dear Nell,--
"I have an idea for a real four-act comedy (in these matters nothing
daunts me!) founded on a charming little episode in the private lives of
Princess Lieven (the famous Russian ambassadress) and the celebrated
Guizot, the French Prime Minister and historian. I should have to veil
the identity _slightly_, and also make the story a husband and wife
story--it would be more amusing this way. It is comedy from beginning to
end. Sir Henry would make a splendid Guizot, and you the ideal Madame de
Lieven. Do let me talk it over with you. 'The School for Saints' was, as
it were, a born biography. But the Lieven-Guizot idea is a play.
"Yours ever affectionately,
"PEARL MARY THERESA CRAIGIE."
In another letter she writes:
"I am changing all my views about so-called 'literary' dialogue. It
means pedantry. The great thing is to be lively."
"A first night at the Lyceum" was an institution. I don't think that it
has its parallel nowadays. It was not, however, to the verdict of all
the brilliant friends who came to see us on the first night that Henry
Irving attached importance.
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