3-028-162 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Scene from "'Twixt Axe and Crown," at the Queen's Theatre, 1870. London stage production. 'Our Illustration presents one of the most effective situations in Mr. Tom Taylor's new historical drama, now being performed at the Queen's, and which seems likely to secure the patronage of the public. The scene is in the great hall of Ashbridge Manor, whither the Princess Elizabeth has retired, far from the annoyances of the Court. Still, however, she fears the machinations of her sister, Mary, and knows herself to be under espionage. Greater, therefore, is her trouble when she finds that she has been followed by Edward Courtenay, whose imprudent love would fain make her a party to a conspiracy. Meanwhile the contrivances of Mary are proceeding, and Sir John Brydges is commissioned to secure her person. Elizabeth is at first inclined to resist; but Courtenay reappears on the scene, and, for the clearance of her own fame, she is compelled to repudiate his services, and to declare her ignorance of his being on the spot. Mrs. Rousby proves fully equal to the situation, and produces a great effect by aid of her attitude and gesture, both of which are appropriate to the occasion. Mrs. Rousby gives every promise of becoming a distinguished actress'. From "Illustrated London News", 1870.