It is very necessary that their prompter and their conductor should be their near neighbours, able to render them assistance and support upon the shortest notice.

But this proximity of the prompter has, perhaps, induced them to rely too much upon his help, and to burden their memories too little.

The majority of singers are but indifferently acquainted with the words they are required to utter.

They gather these as they want them, from the hidden friend in his hutch at their feet.

The occupants of the proscenium boxes at the opera-houses must be familiarly acquainted with the tones of the prompter's voice, as he delivers to the singers, line by line, the matter of their parts; and occasionally these stage whispers are audible at a greater distance from the foot-lights.