[307] In the "Touchstone," 1728, attributed to James Ralph, we are told that rope-dancing was then still in great esteem with the generality of people, though it had for some years been held in contempt in the refined neighbourhood of St James's. See Prologue to Steele's "Funeral":
"Old Shakespeare's days could not thus far advance; But what's his buskin to our ladder-dance? In the mid region a silk youth to stand, With that unwieldy engine at command."
[308] Christopher Rich, who was forcibly expelled by Collier, by the aid of a hired rabble. According to an affidavit of Collier's, dated January 8, 1710, "On or about the 22nd of November, it being a day of public rejoicing, he ordered a bonfire to be made before the play-house door, and gave the actors money to drink your Majesty's health ... and that he came that evening to the play-house and showed the players Sir John Stanley's letter, and told them they might act as soon as they pleased, for that he had the Queen's leave to employ them. Upon which the players themselves and some soldiers got into the play-house, and the next day performed a play, but not the play that was given out, for Rich had carried away the clothes."
[309] Because it recalled the name of Jeremy Collier, who began his attack on the immorality of the stage in 1698.
From _Saturday, Nov. 26_, to _Tuesday, Nov. 29, 1709_.
Jam redit et Virgo, redeunt Saturnia regna.--VIRG., Eclog. iv. 6.