. .E’en as we pluck thee,Fading away! Anne Fricker, ‘Fading Away’, 1854MR ERNEST BOULTON begs to thank those managers who have offered engagements, but intends to resume the Drawing-Room Entertainment in which he originally appeared. He is desirous of meeting with a gentleman who is musical, has a good voice, and who could take one of the leading parts in the entertainment — Address, &c.Reynolds’s Newspaper, 6th August 1871 J ust two months after her sensational acquittal at Westminster Hall, Stella was eager to be back in the theatrical saddle. Though the trial had taken a very considerable toll upon her fragile health and strength, she was nevertheless resolved to return to the stage at any and at all costs. Besides, what choice did she have? A respectable life was closed to her for ever. Who would marry her now? The stench and taint of sodomy was upon her and she was now so notorious that even going on the pad was unthinkable. She would be recognised at once and hauled straight back to court.
