He accepted the opportunity and he proved
equal to it. Richard was followed by Sir
Giles Overreach, and that by Macbeth, and
those impersonations caused a popular ex-
citement unprecedented in the di-amatic life
of California. Crowded houses applauded
him. The generous enthusiasm of the Press
encouraged and cheered him. The sym-
pathy of brother actors stimulated him.
He became the favourite of the theatre-going
public and he made an impression on the
stage which was deep, strong, and destined
to endure.
Toward the close of that series of tragic
performances at the San Francisco hall he
obtained a benefit, and, mindful of his
father's suggestion and of the promise to
which it had led, he acted Hamlet — making
his first appearance in that part. It was the
crowning success and it brought the crovm-
Ing honours. Through the lawless strength.
Digitized by CjOOQIC



LIFE OF EDWIN BOOTH. 39

diffused effort, and inequality of the per-
sonation, thoughtful observers saw the in-
forming power of fine intelligence and the
authentic fire of dramatic genius. Much
was written about it and about the actor.
Thoughtful reviews, contributed to one of
the local newspapers, by F. C. Ewer, after-
ward a prominent clergyman in New York,
where he died October 10, 1883, gave salu-
tary suggestions and useful counsel. His
brother Junius was wise and kind in warn-
ing him against the possible danger of his
mistaking the exuberant force of youth for
complete mastery of the art of acting.
