The Actor’s Critique
Lord Rattle receives Melopoyn courteously and declares it the best coup d’essai he has ever seen, though he marks several places for possible improvement. Melopoyn agrees to be governed by his advice and direction. Upon delivering the revised manuscript, an actor is introduced who reads a scene but makes frivolous objections to words in every page, demanding submission on the grounds of his twenty years’ experience. Lord Rattle convenes gentlemen of fortune to hear a full reading, during which the piece is much applauded. The gentlemen promise to support it, and Lord Rattle instructs Melopoyn to make the alterations immediately.
A Change in Management
Before Melopoyn can present the new copy, Mr. Supple disposes of his property and patent to one Mr. Brayer, requiring fresh interest to be made with the new manager. Lord Rattle undertakes this task, having some acquaintance with Brayer, and recommends Melopoyn’s performance so strongly that it is received.
Mr. Brayer’s Delays
Melopoyn expects his play to be put in rehearsal but faces continual delay. Lord Rattle excuses Brayer due to multiplicity of business and warns against teasing the patentee. After three more weeks, Lord Rattle informs Melopoyn that Brayer has read the play and acknowledges its indubitable merit, but he is pre-engaged to another author and cannot represent it that season. He invites Melopoyn to reserve it for the next season and make the proposed alterations. Melopoyn is thunderstruck by this disappointment and protests the manager’s insincerity, but Lord Rattle reprimands him and insists Brayer is a man of honour whose behavior is merely forgetfulness. Lord Rattle then offers to bring on the play at the other house instead.
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