The Duenna

Abstract

I have promised to assist Sheridan in compiling—I believe this is the properest term—an opera, which I understand from him he has engaged to produce at Covent Garden this season. I have already set some airs which he has given me, and he intends writing new words to some tunes of mine. My son¹ has likewise written some tunes for him, and I understand he is to have some others from Mr Jackson of Exeter. This is a mode of proceeding in regard to his composition which I by no means approve of. I think he ought first to have finished his opera with the songs he intends to introduce into it, and have got it entirely new set. No musician can set a song properly unless he understands the character and knows the performer who is to exhibit it.… I would not have been concerned in this business at all, but that I know there is an absolute necessity for him to endeavour to get some money by this means, and he will not be persuaded upon to let his wife sing,² and indeed at present she is incapable, and nature will not permit me to be indifferent to his success.

From Lloyd C. Sanders, Life of Richard Brinsley Sheridan (London: Walter Scott, 1890) pp. 47–8. Editor’s title.