ke, but their minds see no alternative but to do
their best, and the best, with characters of this conscientious type,
is seldom bad.

It is quite true, also, that some actors are never at their best till
they are dressed, and that some others can put off learning their
parts till the last moment, and then "study" them at a push, and
acquit themselves creditably in the play. _But these peculiarities are
no excuse for neglecting rehearsals, or for not learning parts, or for
rehearsing in a slovenly manner._

_Actors should never forget that rehearsals are not only for the
benefit of each actor individually, but also of all the characters of
the piece as a whole._

A. and B. may be able to learn their parts in a day, and to act fairly
under the inspiration of the moment, but if they neglect rehearsals on
this account, they deal very selfishly by C. and D., who have not the
same facility, and who rehearse at great disadvantage if the other
parts are not properly represented too.

And now a word or two to the actors of the small parts. It _is_ a
disappointment to find yourself "cast" for a footman, with no more to
do than to announce and usher in the principal personages of the
piece, when you feel a strong (and perhaps well-grounded) conviction
that you would have "made a hit" as the Prince in blank verse and blue
velvet. Well! one must fall back on one's principles. Be loyal to the
stage-manager. Help the piece through, whether it is or is not a
pleasure and a triumph for you yourself. Set an example of willingness
and good-humour. If to these first principles you add the amiable
quality of finding pleasure in the happiness of others, you will be
partly consoled for not playing the Prince yourself by sympathizing
with Jack's unfeigned pride in his part and his finery, and if Jack
has a heart under his velvet doublet, he will not forget your
generosity. It may also be laid down as an axiom that _a good actor
will take a pride in making the most of a small part_. There are many
plays in which small parts have been raised to the rank of principal
ones by the spirit put into them by a good actor, who "made" his part
instead of grumbling at it. And the credit gained by a triumph of this
kind is very often even beyond the actor's deserts. _From those who
play the principal parts much is expected, and it is difficult to
satisfy ones audience, but if any secondary character is made pathetic
or amusing, the audience (having e