Article on Grau’s lease at the French Theatre

“The advice tendered by the HERALD some time since has been taken, and the French Theatre has been released to Mr. Grau. We may now look for a better management than has characterized it in times past and a revival of public interest in French comedy. Mr. Grau has despatched experienced agents to Paris, with orders to secure the best artists to be found in that capital, and by the close of October we may expect the opening of the season by a series of desirable and well conducted entertainments. In the meantime, preparations are in progress looking towards a complete renovation and re-equipment of the theatre. A complete dramatic library, properties, costumes and appointments, all of the richest and most varied and acceptable kind, have been ordered from France, together with a new drop curtain of a more cheerful aspect than the one which now veils the interior of the stage. In addition to these, other preparations are on foot, all of which, when completed, will unite in rendering the theatre an acceptable and popular place of resort to the public. The newest feature will be a ball room floor, which will enable the lessee to place the house to use on the off nights of the French performances.

            “With the theatre beautified by new scenery and appointments, and with a theatrical troupe composed of able French artists, we may anticipate that French comedy will become a popular and profitable source of amusement in this city. We are assured that nothing will be left undone to secure approbation and popularity. The artists and their repertoire will be presented to the public at the appropriate time, and it is promised that both will be of a nature precluding the possibility of objection . . . . “.  [remainder is illegible]