the liveliness and vigour of the cast compensated for the weaknesses in the play and in particular carried it over the hurried and rather flat conclusion, making it a rapid and amusing piece which ran simply and without strain. All the actors had a good "feel" for the nature of the characters they portrayed and it was unfortunate that they had not been able to rehearse a little more, a couple having agreed to take on parts at short notice. C. J. Watson, who had the largest part, set a good example with his apparent self-confidence, and Gray performed well in a difficult female role. There had been great problems concerning the set, which had to be arranged rapidly after a previous House play, and it was surprisingly good in spite of the troubles that had delayed it. Altogether the performance came off very well, holding the attention of the audience firmly, and succeeding well in its primary object, entertainment. J .R .W.
"DR. FAUSTUS" PRESENTED BY THE MANOR
The House-play reports last year complained of the rut of melodrama / farce which seems ominously near, and of the frivolity which marred some ambitious productions; reference to last May's magazine will show that none of the usual criticisms apply to J. P. Moffatt's "Dr. Faustus". Everything from the programme through to the minor parts was clearly and conscientiously executed. The posters were tasteful and gave an accurate idea of what to expect, the set was simple and effective and the costumes were so appropriate as to blend unobtrusively with the whole. Above all, the acting was at least of School-play quality, and if one or two of the "Seven deadly Sins" were inaudible, it was more the fault of the audience than of the actors. In short, all the flaws usually present in
Manor House Play: "Faustus". 14
