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22 ANNALS OF THE
nated him, '
second only to Jack Johnstone.' We feel every respect
for the efforts of Mr. Power, but he would require a power of brogue,
in addition to what he possesses, to make us for a moment institute
a comparison. We have seen Mr. Barry play Corporal O'Slash ;
and the remark is not dictated by invidiousness, but the rich and
racy pronunciation of his Minister tongue we missed. Mr. Barry
has his defects, and Mr. Power has his own perfections ; yet when-
ever he performs before a Dublin, nay, an Irish audience, he should
'
lay aside the Irishman in London,' and feel himself breathing that
air which, as St. Patrick says in the song, '
banished all the vermin.'
It is more than ridiculous to see a Cockney twang mixed up with an
Irish brogue ; it is like Heathen Greek with Christian English.
These remarks may seem severe, but they should not be used did we
not know Mr. Power to possess qualifications of a high order. The
house was tolerably well attended."
W. Dillon, well known as "Billy Dillon," a most
talented and popular writer for SatindeYs, died this
month. He was married to a sister of Gaudry, com-
poser of many celebrated glees, amongst which, " Descend
Celestial Queen of Song," stills holds ground.
Gaudry was also composer of the charming song, " Art
Thou, too, gone?" Gaudry was Mr. John O'Rorke's
uncle.
July nth. Mr. Charles Young appeared in "Rienzi,"
Power acting in the afterpiece.
Charles Kemble was also engaged, playing Charles-
Surface ; Joseph Surface, Mr. Young; Sir Benjamin
Backbite, Mr. Power (what a trio !) Power was a very
good light comedian, and had he never taken to the Irish
characters, must have made his mark in almost any walk
of the drama. Leaving first impressions aside, and all
cant about the good old times, really no idea can be