THE STORY OF YOUNG EDWIN BOOTH

One tragedy after another, on the stage and in real life, was to mark Edwin Booth's life and Mrs. Power-Waters' narrative captures them realistically and meaningfully. Hardly more than a youngster, Edwin was commissioned to go on the road with his famous father, Junius, to take care of him during his drinking bouts. Sturdy of mind and body, Edwin came through what must have been trying experiences relatively Unscathed and what is more, strengthened in his own determination to become an actor. It was a dramatic night when he had to take over for his father as Richard III. Edwin's own success came early. He went west and was signed to play mining camps. East again, more favorable receptions were waiting, along with the first years of a happy marriage with Mary Devlin. Mary's death, too soon, and the quite horrible fate of his brother, John Wilkes, seemed crowning blows. But besides his skill, Edwin had a trooper's spirit. People wanted him back and he went on to become a prince of players.