Details
STEELE, Sir Richard (1672-1729). Autograph letter signed to [Henry] Davenant, [London], 30 January 1721/2, three pages, 4to, endorsed on verso in a contemporary hand (short split along fold to first leaf, two neat repairs to folds on final leaf, a few small holes).
Writing in response to Davenant's request for Steele to intervene and hasten the staging of his play, The Nightingale; Steele explains his inability to help, being 'but an Adventurer any more than any other body that writes for the stage'. Claiming to be 'utterly passive' in this respect ('only to take on me, to Censure plays with an intention to preserve my self against a discontinuation of my Patent'), he illustrates his willingness for other playwrights to take precedence, stepping aside when his own comedy was due to be staged at the same time as 'Mr Philipps' Tragedy ... as I am ready to do to you or any other Gentleman who shall labour for the stage.'
Writing in response to Davenant's request for Steele to intervene and hasten the staging of his play, The Nightingale; Steele explains his inability to help, being 'but an Adventurer any more than any other body that writes for the stage'. Claiming to be 'utterly passive' in this respect ('only to take on me, to Censure plays with an intention to preserve my self against a discontinuation of my Patent'), he illustrates his willingness for other playwrights to take precedence, stepping aside when his own comedy was due to be staged at the same time as 'Mr Philipps' Tragedy ... as I am ready to do to you or any other Gentleman who shall labour for the stage.'
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