In Hamlet we do not want only new readings, new ideas, change for the sake of change. We want the actor or actress Hamlet to have genius and the gift of inspiration. These things belong to Sarah Bernhardt. No student of the drama living has admired with greater enthusiasm than I have the superb quality of the technique of this the greatest artist I have ever seen. As Hamlet I see her a greater artist than ever, because her task was heroic in its significance and importSardou is great, but Shakespeare

ance.

is greater.

Between the Hamlet of Charles Fechter and that of Sarah Bernhardt there is scarcely a shadow of comparison. Both were beautiful to look at, ideal, imaginative, soothing, and satisfying.

Those are the Hamlets that cling to

the memory. So I begin to think, on the whole, that the French temperament is better for the play of Hamlet as acted before an audience than the philosophical German, the passionate Italian, the alert American, or the phlegmatic Englishman.

Never heed what people tell you. Take it from me, and, if you have a chance, study, reflect, and analyse Sarah Bernhardt's Hamlet. You may differ from it in insignificant detail, but not in degree. But you are bound to admire it, and in the after years you will not forget it. Merci! merci! most gifted artist!