Year: 1866

the Phoenix out Of its own ashes,
soon recovered from them, and rose
to an ostensible position as manager
Of the Walnut-street Theatre In Philadel-
phia. At that institution remained nine
yesrs-until 1fty y.three-when my daugh-
ter resolved to 70 upon the stage. Her
motive was most laudable; It was to re-
pleplsh my Golfers for, the liberal. outlay l
had made in educating her and endowing
her with the necessary accomplishments
for lady. Her successful course has ever
since been household word. 1t does not
need any eulogy from my lips or heart.
Her acts, motives, and abilities are stereo-
typed; her high mission of care for the
guardians Of her youth, and her unwaver-
ing regard for their old age, can only elicit
the highest commentator. Divine ProS-
dence has hitherto blessed her with pro-
sperity, with the appreciation of her
own heart and tho esteem Of all who
know her. If this assertion should need
corroboration, can only make reference
to the brilliant scene of Wednesday eve-
ming within these walls. The magnitude
of that ovation, the feeling which prompt
ed IL, and the marked estimation
in which Miss Richings Is held, i am proud
to say, by almost every community, reflects
the highest credit upon her excellent quail
ties of the heart as woman and an artist.
But something too much Of this. Possibly
it is inapt for me to be thus carried away,
and rob you of your enjoyment. know
you will excuse me, and attribute 1t to the
right cause. Suffice it that have reached
the goal Of all desires, and for the past and
present am grateful-deeply, profoundly
grateful-to all, without distinction--audi-
ence, press, management, company, and
orchestra.


At this moment I feel oppressed by the
ordeal I have passed through, and with
your permission will close this scene of my
labor. Ladies and gentlemen, most respect
fully I bid you final adieu, invoking a
fervent prayer that the kindness and favor
you have bestowed on me and mine may
be reflected back upon your own hearts by
prosperity, health, and happiness. To that
let me breathe an additional aspiration,
that though Time is sad leveller, 1t will
not break asunder the links Of recollection,
but rivet them more closely, so that,
although other events, other artists, and
other attractions, may spring up to absorb
your pleasure, your enjoyment, and your
feelings, it will leave a small wee spot in
your memories for the old artist and his
charge, if it's only for the days of auld lang
syne. Ladies and gentlemen, farewell.


The remainder of the performance passed
off as usual-in most successful man
ner. We regret that we cannot give space
to special mention of each artist, as de-
served.


Mr.. Dietrich, in his duo with Miss Rich
ings, showed himself to be a very fine
artist. He handled his bow very grace
fully; and clearer notes than his are sell
dom brought from the violin. Miss Rich
ings is a splendid performer upon the
piano; and during the duo with Mr..
Dietrich we heard the remark from several
quarters, WAS ever such woman seen
What is it that she can't doW Really, we
are unable to say.


In regard to the rest Of the artists, suf-
flee it to say that they all did themselves
justice, and that the performance was not
marred by single faur pas.


The Richings Opera Troupe having com
pleted their engagement here, take their
leave for Washington this morning. They
bear with them the best wishes of the peo-
pie of Richmond, and leave the most plea
SAINT recollections Of their performances,
marked as they have been with high de-
gree of refinement and art; and in bidding
them adieu we can assure them with the
hope that they will come when the sun
shines more brightly upon old Virginia.
that they are ever welcome with us, and
that they will always meet with warm,
hearty reception from the good people OF
Ricbmond