The theatre, which in its former simplicity had attracted the spectators solely by the excellence of the dramatic works and the actors, was now furnished out with all the appendages with which we are at this day familiar; but what is gained in external decoration is lost in internal worth." In other words, the theatrical life and literature of the Restoration was morally rotten to the core.

How that rottenness has been giving way, during the childhood of Nance Oldfield, to what may be styled a comparative decency, need not be described here.

Suffice it to explain that such a change is taking place, and let us accordingly sing, rejoice and give thanks for small mercies.

Thalia has ceased to be a wanton; she is fast becoming quite a respectable young woman, and as to Melpomene--well, that severe Muse is actually waxing religious.
Religious?
Yes, verily, for will not all good Londoners read in the course of a year or two that there will be a performance of "Hamlet" at Drury Lane "towards the defraying the charge of repairing and fitting up the chapel in Russell Court," said performance to be given "with singing by Mr.Hughes, and entertainment of dancing by Monsieur Cherier, Miss Lambro his scholar, and Mr.Evans.Boxes, 5s.; pit, 3s.; gallery, 2s.; upper gallery, 1s." Here was an ideal union of church and stage with a vengeance, the one being served by the other, and the whole thing done to the secular accompaniment of singing and dancing.

For an instant the town was scandalised, but Defoe, that perturbed spirit for whom there was no such word as rest, saw the humour of the situation.
"Hard times, gentlemen, hard times these are indeed with the Church," he informs the promoters of this ecclesiastical benefit, "to send her to the playhouse to gather pew-money.