To the beginner it afforded a kind of informal apprenticeship, with the advantage that while a learner of its mysteries, he could yet style himself a full member of the profession of the stage, and share in its profits.

He was at once bud and flower.

What though the floor of a ruined barn saw his first crude efforts, might not the walls of a patent theatre resound by-and-by with delighted applause, tribute to his genius?
It was a free, frank, open vocation he had adopted; it was unprotected and unrestricted by legislative provisions in the way of certificates, passes, examinations, and diplomas.

There was no need of ticket, or voucher, or preparation of any kind to obtain admission to the ranks of the players.

"Can you shout ?" a manager once inquired of a novice.