The Washington times., 1921-02-15
THE CAST

Ii was a large and enthusiastic
audience that greeted Mr.. Post and
his associates In the return to Wash
ington OF the noteworthy play that
has held the attention OF two con-
tinents, and although the unfolding
or It's plot required nearly three hours
with only the most abbreviated inter-
walls between the many changes of
stage settings, through the sheer
force OF it's dramatic power. II held
the interest of the spectator In "A close
grip throughout
The idea of twin personalities--
those OF John Chilcote, member of
parliament, and John Loder, a hack
writer, blood-cousins, and alike in
appearance and voice. but distinct in
personality--is not new to the stage.
and in the younger art OF the cinema
has been utilized so many times that
the play depends rather on the art
of the actor In delineating the two
roles. than in the plot itself.
That Mr.. Post handles these roles
admirably, sharply contrasting the
morphia-besotted character of Chill
cote with that of the thoroughly like
able Loder is but the tribute due TO
an actor who has earned his place
on the American stage. but II is in
the former role that he displays his
artistry.
The opening of the play is in pro-
logue form, depicting the chance
thick London fog. The action COM
mences just before Englsnds en-
trance into the war.
The next day Chilcote is due to
speak in Parliament, virtually to
sound the call to arms, but can not
resist the charm of the drug. and al
most at the last moment il found in
a helpless and pitiablc condition.
Brock, the family butler for many
years, seeks vsinly to awaken him to
his responsibilities.
Chilcote. remembering his meeting
with Loder the night before. in his
last moments OF lucidity. goes to the
latter's apartment and appeals to
the cousin to change places with
him.
The speech H. a triumphant success
and the substitution IL unsupported
by either Eve Chilcote, the neglected
wife, or the closest friends. Having
accomplished this, Loder seeks to re-
turn. but Is prevented by his helpless
ly debauched cousin and Is forced to
continue the masquerade.
And so the story goes to an newt
able conclusion--the death OF Chilcote
from an overdose OF the drug. At
times the action is sustained at so
high a pitch that II threatens to de-
feat its purpose. but this is the only
criticism that can be advanced to an
otherwise admirable vehicle.
In tho role OF Brock, the butler.
secondary in importance to that of
Mr.. Post. George Cowell is perhaps
inclined to read the more tense pas
sagcs in too high a key, losing the
effect OF contrast. although in every
other way he entirely meets the re-
quirements of tho character.
While not containing any distin-
guished names. the supporting cast
Is at all times adequate. Particular
credit for a well drawn characterize
tion is due Katherine Raymore, as
Robbins. the maid of all work in a
London lodging house. Little Miss
Dorothea James does a refreshing bit
well. and Huskio, a great Alaskan
dog. gives promise OF histrionic
ability.
1t should Re remembered by intend
ing patrons that the management is
rigidly enforcing the rule to seat no
one during the action of the impress
sive prologue, and govern themselves
accordingly.