The history of my life is a very simple, uneventful one, but since you show such kind interest in me I will gladly relate it to you.

So far from being brought down to the station I occupy by some grievous catastrophe or romantic combination of adverse circumstances, I was born to the profession of an actress--the chariot of Thespis was, so to say, my birthplace.

My mother, who was a very beautiful woman and finished actress, played the part of tragic princess.

She did not confine her role to the theatre, but exacted as much deference and respect from those around her when off the stage, as she received upon it, until she came to consider herself a veritable princess.

She had all the majesty and grace of one, and was greatly admired and courted, but never would suffer any of the gallants, who flutter about pretty actresses like moths around a candle, to approach her--holding herself entirely above them, and keeping her good name unsullied through everything.