Far more interesting in its way, although still not directly connected with the subject, was the appearance of the Queen in the theatre on the 31st May, being the evening after an insane attempt upon her life. The visit of Her Majesty had been expected. The opera house was filled in every part to overflowing; and on the entrance of the Queen the expression of enthusiasm was electrical. The whole audience rose to its feet, and one loud deep burst of congratulatory applause burst forth from the vast concourse of human beings. Hats and handkerchiefs were waved. Many ladies sobbed aloud. During this demonstration the Queen stood at the front of her box and curtsied repeatedly, while Prince Albert bowed in reply to the deafening congratulations. The audience would not allow the opera to proceed till the "National Anthem" had been sung, and, as a mark of especial respect, Lablache and Persiani joined the rest of the company. At the words "Scatter her enemies," in particular, the most deafening acclama- tions arose, and one cheer more was raised when Her Majesty resumed her seat in the corner of the box.

On this memorable evening, Mercadante's opera, "Elena Uberti" was performed for the first time in Italian, an English version, entitled "Elena di Feltre," having been produced some time back at Covent Garden Theatre, during the engagement of Miss Adelaide Kemble. The principal character was sustained by Frezzolini, but it made no remarkable sensation.