It has forcibly struck me that if I could be indulged in the pleasure of half-an-hour's conversation with you on the subject, it would furnish me with some hints, which, beaten on the anvil of my brain, would be of eminent service to me on the occasion," &c.

A meeting was appointed, and, at an early date the author dined at the actor's cottage.

Godwin, anxious not to outrage probability in his story, sought information as to "the power of destroying personal identity." Mathews assumed several disguises, and fully satisfied his visitor upon the point in question.
"Soon after," writes Mrs.Mathews, "a gentleman, an eccentric neighbour of ours, broke in upon us as Mr.Godwin was expressing his wonder at the variety of expression, character, and voice of which Mr.
Mathews was capable.

We were embarrassed, and Mr.Godwin evidently vexed at the intruder.

However, there was no help for it; the servant had admitted him, and he was introduced in form to Mr.Godwin.