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THEATRE ROYAL, DUBLIN. 179
This was the last night of the most complete Italian
Company which ever had been heard up to that date in
the Royal. The chorus and band had formerly been
supplied from local resources ; now some of the " pick "
of both departments, from the most perfect choral and
orchestral organization in Europe nay, we might say, in
the world joined with their powerful
aid. The cos-
tumes and appointments in every department were per-
fect ; the dresses of the chorus, and all the minor parts,
being supplied from the wonderful wardrobe of Covent
Garden. It was, indeed, a novelty here to behold so
perfect an ensemble. In addition, the combination of
principal artistes was unprecedented. Of course much
curiosity existed with reference to the first appearance of
Victoire Balfe, who, as may be perceived, was accom-
panied by her celebrated father. He was not attached to
the Company, but was naturally intensely interested in
her success, and travelled with her all through the tour,
playing the piano accompaniments when required. She
was, as may be supposed, an accomplished artiste, and
had studied with Garcia, Jenny Lind's professor. Added
to a most prepossessing appearance, her figure was grace-
ful and elegant ; and in her acting she displayed a premature
ease and knowledge of the stage remarkable, con-
sidering her youth, as she was then only about eighteen
or nineteen years of age. After a short and successful
career, she retired, and, as is well known, married Sir
John Crampton, then English ambassador at Madrid.
The first appearance of Bosio was also an event to be
remembered. This wonderful creature seemed to com-