joiced that
ever since his childhood he had had opportunities of going to
the theatre and witnessing some of the most excellent plays, and
appreciating the performances of some of the best actors of the
present day, many of whom he saw on either side and before him
on this occasion. The few remarks he had to make regarding this
most excellent fund must be reserved till a later period of the
evening, and therefore he would not then detain the company; but
he must observe that not only had the Princess and himself
derived considerable amusement from what they had witnessed at
the theatres, but they had given their patronage to the drama
because it was their wish to encourage a noble profession."

The usual toast of the Army, Navy, and Volunteers having been given and
responded to, the Prince rose, and said:--

"The toast which he had now to propose was the so-called toast
of the evening, which was 'Prosperity to the Royal General
Theatrical Fund.' It afforded him great pleasure to propose this
toast, and when he saw the numerous assembly before him he felt
no doubt of the great interest taken by all present in this
excellent charity. What charity, he asked, could be more
deserving of support? When they considered how much amusement
and pleasure they all derived by going to the theatre, did it
ever occur to them that it was to the actors and actresses a
life of drudgery and hardship? Those same actors and actresses
who appeared in some comic character might have near and dear
relations lying sick at home. Then, also, when a time of life
arrived in the course of nature in which they were unable longer
to appear upon the stage ought they to be left to starve?
Certainly not, and it was to prevent aged actors who were
incapable of work from starving, that this fund had been
instituted.

"This charity was still more meritorious, because it was
supported by the actors themselves. The charity was established
in 1839 by a few London actors, and in 1853 it was incorporated
by Royal charter. The fund was raised to provide annuities for
aged and decayed members of the charity, and in special cases
for granting temporary assistance to the families of deceased
members. Any member of the profession, on the payment of a small
annual subscription, ranging from 21_s._ 4_d._ to L28 9_s._ a