There is as much difference between the rival companies of the two patent theatres as there is between the habits and conduct of the managers: in Covent Garden, the gentlemanly manners of Charles Kemble, and his amiable desire to make all happy around him, has imparted something of a kindred feeling to the ~366~~performers; and hence, assisted by the friendly ancient Fawcett, the whole of the establishment has all the united family feeling of a little commonwealth, struggling to secure its independence and popularity. Here Bernard's reception was every thing a young author could wish: kind attention from the company, and considerative hints for the improvement of his play, accompanied with the good wishes of all for its success, left an impression of gratitude upon the mind of the young author, that gave fresh inspiration to his talents, and increased his confidence in his own abilities. At Drury Lane the case was far otherwise; and the want of that friendly attention which distinguished the rival company proved very embarrassing to the early buddings of dramatic genius. Perhaps a slight sketch of the scene might not prove uninstructive to young authors, or fail in its intended effect upon old actors. Reader, imagine Bernard Blackmantle, an enthusiastic and eccentric child of Genius, seated at the green-room table, reading his musical farce to the surrounding company, and then judge what must be the effect of the following little scene. PROGRAMME. Bernard Blackmantle reading; Mr. Elliston speaking to Spring, the box-office keeper; and Mr. Winston in a passion, at the door, with the master carpenter; Mr. Knight favouring the Author with a few new ideas; and the whole company engaged in the most amusing way, making side speeches to one another (see plate). DOWTON. 'Gad, renounce me--little valorous--d----d annoying, (_looking at his watch_)--these long rehearsals always spoil my Vauxhall dinner--More hints to the Author--better keep them for his next piece. ~367~~MUNDEN (sputtering). My wigs and eyes--Dowton's a better part than mine; I'll have a fit of the gout, on purpose to get out of it--that's what I will. KNIGHT (to the Author). My dear boy, it strikes me that it might be much improved. (Aside) Got an idea; but can't let him have it for nothing. HARLEY (to Elliston). If this piece succeeds, it can't be played every night--let Fitz. understudy it--don't breakfast on beef-steaks, now. If you wish to enjoy health--live at Pimlico--take a run in the parks--and read Abernethy on constitutional origin. TERRY (to Mrs. Orger). It's a remarkable thing that the manager should allow these d----d interruptions. If it was my piece, I would not suffer it--that's my opinion. WALLACE (to himself). What a little discontented mortal that is!--it's the best part in the piece, and he wishes it made still better.