Democratic Sentinel, Volume 2, Number 35, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 11 October 1878 — Play People as Auctioneers. [ARTICLE]

Play People as Auctioneers.

It was thought in San Francisco a good idea to sell the tickets for a yellowfever benefit entertainment by auction, with popular actresses as auctioneers. Mrs. Scott-Siddons, Mrs. Oates, and several local favorites volunteered, and an immense audience assembled in the Stock Exchange at the appointed time. Much amusement was expected by those who did not reflect that stage performers are only witty with other folks’ words. The result was a failure. The sprightly Mrs. Oates mounted the desk first, but did not know what to say, stammered some utter nonsense, and only succeeded in selling a box to herself for sllO. Mrs. Scott-Siddons tried it next. Mr. Cobb, a regular auctioneer, stood close by her, and prompted her in whispers. “I am now prepared to receive offers,” she said. “No, no—bids,” Cobb suggested. “Bids, I mean,” the actress continued: “how many bids am I offered ?” Then she was awkwardly silent. The bidding was spiritless. At length she cut off one of her curls, and said: “How much for a seat and a lock of my

hair?” A premium of $5 was all that the hair brought, and she gave up the task. Other actresses did no better. Then Crane and Robson, the very comical actors, tried to be originally funny, and failed. The business was then relinquished to the practiced auctioneer.