He Wanted ti Fifth Act of "Lucia."

Manawatu Standard, Volume IX, Issue 19, 20 December 1884, Page 1 (Supplement)

He Wanted ti Fifth Act of "Lucia."

A. group of economists hit upon a peculiar plan i'or hearing the opera. They each bought separate admission tickets and got a seat in partnership. The seat was to be occupiod by them turn about, each one holding it during an act. It was an admirable scheme. Those standing agaiust the wall gave it furtive glances of proprietorship. Besides their other operatio furnishings they wore upon their faces that transfigured look of hope which beautifies the face of the dying Christian. Each hoped for something better in the course of half an hour or so. The man in the seat cultivated an expression of Napoleonic calm, and reaiiy managed to look like a season holder. There was a considerable good-natured wrestling and pushing between the acts. There had been no drawing of lots or regulating of turns, and it was a mere matter of politeness who should follow whom. The last chance fail to the politest of the live, and he leaned good-naturedly against the wall, waiting his turn. From their conversation they were habitues of ths Grand Opera j House, and accustomed to getting five acts for j their money. When "Lucia" went mad and disappeared from view the polite man began to look uneasy. When the tenor stabbed himself beads of anguish irupearled themselves upon his brow. When the curtain fell and the people began to disperse he grew incoherent. " Say, Ned, " he gasped, clutching tho arm of fcho-lasii sitter, "ain't there no more o' this going on? Where do I come in ? " " I don't sec how it can go on, " answered Ned calmly and sweetly. " The whole gang is either dead or crazy, and I don't think you come in until the next opera season. You're left, my boy." — Mobile Register.