Even on the side toward the
spectators a great deal of "make believe" is admissible. Seen through
the intervening gauze, the cheapest cotton velvet is equal to the
richest silk; glazed calico takes the place of satin; and even the
royal ermine may be admirably simulated by tails of black worsted
stitched on a ground of flannel. Lace may be manufactured from cut
paper, and a dollar's worth of tinsel will afford jewels for a congress
of sovereigns. Of course, there is not the least objection to his
wearing a crown of the purest gold, or diamonds of the finest possible
water (if he can get them), but they will not look one whit more
effective than the homely substitutes we have mentioned.
A "ghost effect" may, where necessary, be produced by the aid of a
magic lantern; the other lights of the tableau being lowered in order
to give sufficient distinctness to the reflection.
Dramatic tableaux may often be exhibited with advantage in two or more
"scenes"; the curtain being lowered for a moment in order to enable
the characters to assume a fresh position. Examples of this will be
found among the tableaux which follow.
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