That a certain Degree of reputation is acquired merely by approving the works of genius, and testifying a regard to the memory of the Authors, is a truth too evident to be denied; and therefore to ensure a participation of fame, with a celebrated poet, many who would perhaps have contributed to starve him when alive, have heaped expensive pageants upon his grave.1

It must indeed be confess’d, that this method of becoming known to posterity, with honour, is peculiar to the great, or at least to the wealthy; but an opportunity now offers for almost every individual to secure the praise of paying a just regard to the illustrious dead; united with the pleasure of doing good to the living. To assist industrious indigence struggling with distress, and debilitated by age, is a display of virtue, and an acquisition of happiness and honour.

Whoever, then, would be thought capable of pleasure in reading the works of our incomparable Milton, and not so destitute of gratitude as to refuse to lay out a trifle in a rational and elegant entertainment for the benefit of his living remains, for the exercise of their own virtue, the increase of their reputation, and the pleasing consciousness of doing good, should appear at Drury-Lane Theatre to-morrow, April 5, when Comus will be perform’d for the benefit of Mrs. Elizabeth Foster, grand-daughter to the author, and the only surviving branch of his family.

N.B. There will be a new prologue on the occasion written by the author of Irene, and spoken by Mr. Garrick; and by (particular desire) there will be added to the masque, a dramatic satyr call’d Lethe, in which Mr. Garrick will perform.2