THE ORPHAN;

OR,

The Unhappy Marriage.

A TRAGEDY,

IN FIVE ACTS.

BY THOMAS OTWAY.

CORRECTLY GIVEN,

AS PERFORMED AT THE THEATRES ROYAL.

With Remarks.

London:

Printed by D. S. Maurice, Fenchurch-street;

SOLD BY

T. HUGHES, 35, LUDGATE STREET, AND J. BYSH,
52, PATERNOSTER ROW; & J. CUMMING, DUBLIN.

REMARKS.

To the great merit of Miss O'Neil, in Monimia,we are indebted for the revival of this tragedy,which was originally played at the Duke's Theatre,in 1680; and long kept possession of the stage.The language of this play is poetical and tender,and the incidents affecting; but, amidst manybeauties, there is great inconsistency*.

Dr. Johnson observes,—"This is one of thefew pieces that has pleased for almost a century,through all the vicissitudes of dramatic fashion.Of this play, nothing new can easily be said. Itis a domestic tragedy, drawn from middle life:—itswhole power is upon the affections; for it isnot written with much comprehension of thought,or elegance of expression. But, if the heart isinterested, many other beauties may be wanting;yet not be missed."

* Many readers will, probably, exclaim with the critic,when he first saw it,—"Oh! what an infinite deal of mischiefwould a farthing rush-light have prevented!"

DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.