idea entertained of Mrs. Sheridan's talents by her own family. The cast
of the play at Bath, and its success there and elsewhere, are thus
mentioned in these letters of Miss Linley:

"Bath, February 18, 1775.

"What shall I say of The Rivals!--a compliment must naturally be
expected; but really it goes so far beyond any thing I can say in its
praise, that I am afraid my modesty must keep me silent. When you and I
meet I shall be better able to explain myself, and tell you how much I
am delighted with it. We expect to have it _here_ very soon:--it is
now in rehearsal. You pretty well know the merits of our principal
performers:--I'll show you how it is cast.

Sir Anthony _Mr. Edwin_.
Captain Absolute _Mr. Didier_.
Falkland _Mr. Dimond_.
(A new actor of great merit, and a sweet figure.)
Sir Lucius _Mr. Jackson_.
Acres _Mr. Keasberry_.
Fag _Mr. Brunsdon_.

Mrs. Malaprop _Mrs. Wheeler_.
Miss Lydia _Miss Wheeler_.
(Literally, a very pretty romantic girl, of seventeen.)
Julia _Mrs. Didier_
Lucy _Mrs. Brett_.

There, Madam, do not you think we shall do your Rivals some justice? I'm
convinced it won't be done better any where out of London. I don't think