A memoir of Edward Askew Sothern; with a brief sketch of the career of E.H. Sothern

Front matter

JbVn

CORNELL

UNIVERSITY

Contents

The Cabebr of B. H. Sothebn sothbbn on the stage sothekn off the stage sothern in the hunting-fleld Sothebn in High Spibits .

Conclusion ....

Postscript to the Third Edition

Introduction

MoRH than eight years have elapsed since Edward Askew Sothern, one of the most original and popular of modern comedians, passed away, yet, beyond some appreciative mention of him in recent volumes of interesting literary and theatrical reminiscences, no life of him has appeared. Long have I felt that there should exist some record of his remarkable stage career, and of the place that he held in the hearts of those who knew, understood, and loved him. Finding that two short articles from my pen concerning him that appeared in the pages of The Theatre magazine attracted some attention, and subsequently having been fortunate enough to obtain the help of the surviving members of his family and near friends (who gave me considerable material, for which I here desire to thank them), I resolved to attempt a biography and tell the story of his experiences as an actor.

I knew him intimately — well enough to appreciate his merits, and to understand his faults — and I found in him, as many others xii Introduction

did, the most tender, considerate, vigilant, and warm-hearted of friends. If this work does a tardy justice to one who was the brilliant star (in his case I might say, comet) of many seasons, my labour will be amply repaid. T. EDGAE PEMBEKTON.

June 11th, 1889.

Note. — The First Edition of this memoir was published in England in 1890.

A Memoir of Edward Askew Sothern