The Adventures of Roderick Random

第六十三章

Chapter LXIII continues the narrator’s account to Mr. Random of his ill-fated attempt to bring his tragedy to the stage, detailing Mr. Marmozet’s deceptive conduct, the rejections by managers Vandal and Brayer, the eventual ruinous consequences of his literary pursuits, and his present imprisonment.

Harsh Criticism of Mr. Marmozet

A friend of the narrator launches a severe attack on Mr. Marmozet’s moral character, his remarks so harsh that the narrator begins to suspect him of personal prejudice and resolves to guard against his insinuations.

Marmozet’s Contradictory Remarks and Counsel

Upon his return to town, Marmozet treats the narrator with unusual courtesy and shares his objections to the play, which prove more unfavorable than expected; after the narrator answers them, Marmozet expresses high approbation, but contradictorily forgets his earlier statements about Earl Sheerwit’s opinion and admits his influence with Mr. Vandal is too weak alone to stage a new piece, advising the narrator to seek the earl’s recommendation instead.

Deception of Earl Sheerwit by Marmozet

Through the worthy gentlewoman intermediary, the narrator learns that Earl Sheerwit will send a message to the manager provided Vandal is unengaged, but is startled to discover that Marmozet, before advising this application, had already informed the earl that the play was altogether unfit for the stage.

Marmozet’s Misrepresentation to Manager Vandal

Marmozet promises to inquire of Vandal, then tells the narrator that Vandal is free of engagements, has placed the play in his hands, and will receive a message from Earl Sheerwit in its favor, requesting the narrator to call for an answer in three days.