for all denominations, and I try to do right to all creatures as far as I can. I have not forgotten when Camille was first played in this city, how some ladies blushed even at calling the name of Camille in their own parlors, and others said they would not go to the theater while Camille was played, and at the same time disguised themselves and went to see the plays.—Which did the greater evil, those who went openly and above board, or those who went in disguise? I leave that with you to judge. There were several ladies boarding at the Burnet House, who vowed and declared they would not go to see Camille, and by their remarks gave great offense to other ladies. Yet one of those very ladies was so anxious to see the play, she actually went to the theater disguised. Some of those self same ladies who would not go to see Camille, now go to the opera to see the play of Traviata; they ease their conscience by saying the music is so elegant. If it was such a sin to look on Camille, I do not think the music sufficient atonement.
I remember one evening in 1857 walking behind several gentlemen. The topic of conversation was the Opera House, some thought it would not be built; it would cost too much money; others seemed to think Cincinnati could not sustain such a place; some laughed at the very idea of it. There were five of them, and but one of the number was in favor of the house. The other four seemed to be very bitter in their remarks. It is really laughable to think I have combed the wife of one of the gentlemen who were so bitter against the opera, four nights out of the six, during the time the first troupe was in Cincinnati.
The building of the Opera House, gave employment
