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have a jollification; but are interrupted by the arrival of Benjamin, who has been wandering abroad for some time, and returns to his home without saying who he is. In order to get rid of him, Auguste (Freulein Feldman) tells him that his father is dead, and, on the old gentleman's suddenly returning, Auguste informs the father that news has been received that his son has died in Paris. There is a by-plot in which Shwisbusser, who passes himself off as the son, appears on the scene, and produces considerable amusement by making love, much to old Zander's delight, to his adopted daughter Pauline, and gives a capital comic song. The mistake resulting from Auguste's stories lead to innumerable comical incidents, as may easily be conceived, the upshot being that the father and son meet in a dark room and each mistakes the other for a ghost, old Zander fainting upon the spot. Of course, the whole affair is cleared up in due time, and the piece ends in general reconciliation. Zander, the leading character, was given with great humour and cleverness, by Herr Knickebein; while Joseph, the servant, was full of intense fun, and brought down great applause by an admirable comic song. Benjamin was the silly loutish son to a point; and little Auguste made the audience forgive her for her white lies by her charming sprightliness and pleasantry. Charlotte and Pauline also deserve a word of praise; while Madame Zander (Frau Porchheimer) acted the stately middle-aged lady to perfection. The other characters were also well given; and, as is always the case with German actors, the by-play was very good.
The Prince stayed to the end, and entered thoroughly into the spirit of the evening, repeatedly joining, in the most hearty and gracious manner, in the applause which greeted the best part of the acting. On leaving, he was vociferously cheered.
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