Nurse Benson

‘Miss Marie Lohr, in her production of “Nurse Benson” to-night at the Globe Theatre, has given the best war-time comedy yet seen on the stage. The authors, Mr R. C. Carton and Mr Justin Huntly M’Carthy, are experienced craftsmen, and they have found some inspiration from the epic times in which we live. There is nothing mawkish or neurotic in this play of healthy sentiment, in which a titled lady, anxious do “her bit,” assumes the name of a commoner, passes her examinations as a nurse, and by her ministrations restores one of our V.C. heroes to health. The dialogue is clever and at times brilliant. The wit is smart and never offensive, and the play is acted and produced with such skill and care that the production is one of artistic excellence' (Aberdeen Press and Journal, 22 June 1918). ‘The new play at the Globe Theatre made a very good start last night, for it caused a great deal of laughter and had an enthusiastic reception. The authors are Messrs. R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, a novel combination, I believe, which whilst it appears to have achieved success, and certainly has produced an amusing comedy of a farcical character, exhibits some want of homogeneity in workmanship; and I fancy there is evidence that the drama has undergone many changes before reaching its present shape. For the male and female villains who figure in the second and third acts are inharmonious with the style of the play, and suggest a development of the plot which never takes place, but may have occurred in earlier editions. As it stands they needlessly lengthen a work quite long enough without them. For the actual dramatic substance of “Nurse Benson” is very slight, and much skill is required on the part of the playwrights to keep the piece going for four acts, in which there is no growth of character' (Westminster Gazette, 22 June 1918). ‘When Mr R. C. Carton and Mr Justin Huntly McCarthy collaborate in dramatic authorship something worthy may confidently be expected. There was no disappointment in the case of the four-act comedy seen for the first time last night. It has a smoothness and a kindly wit to recommend it in parcels, if the story itself can lay no claim to great originality ... The allusions to the war are all in the best taste and informed with true feeling, to which Miss Marie Lohr gives perfect expression' (Sportsman, 22 June 1918). ‘A spring of laughter swelled into a torrent of applause. That was the best it. How often has the critic to say “Oh! That fatal third act!” Plays that begin well often finish badly; but here is a play that works out in proper grammar [sic]. It is “good, better, best.” Moreover, Miss Mane Lohr has a part that brings out one good quality of her art after another - high spirits, humour, and a girlish charm, with a note of sentiment. And so, it may be faithfully recorded that the third adventure of her management of the Globe Theatre, “Nurse Benson,” by Mr. R. C. Carton and Mr. Justin Huntly McCarthy, is a genuine success' (Globe, 22 June 1918). ‘Like every play by Mr. R. C. Carton ... “Nurse Benson,” written in conjunction with Mr. Justin Huntly McCarthy, is a distinct source of pleasure to the audience. Naturally, the degree of pleasure varies, and in this particular case it reaches a very high point. The authors allow us to see the development of a skilful situation that reaches sits climax in the fourth and best act. We watch the inevitable approaching and chuckle delightedly in anticipation ... The wording of the dialogue is [?] and the sentiment patriotic and tender - there is a fair quantity of both - is always sincere and never overdone. On the debit side, the four acts of the play might with advantage be compressed into three, and the elimination of two characters – a melodramatic adventurer, on the make of the “Play for a 100 up for a fiver or a quid any time dear boy” type (and worse), and his wife, a lively lady, whose object is to cajole susceptible young men to write her compromising letters, that she may use as a means to blackmail – would leave the comedy the [?] and none the poorer’ (The Era, 26 June 1918, which listed the cast as Lord Messiger, Fred Kerr; Hon. Brooke Stanway, Dawson Milward; Joseph Tibbenham, George Elton; Captain Tibbenham, V.C., F. Pennington-Gush; Ray Marrison, Nelson Ramsay; Sergeant Hinks, Charles B. Vaughan; Moxon, E. Vivian Reynolds; Smeeton, Douglas Munro; Finchett, E. A. Walker; Johns, G. Dickson-Kenwin; Lady Gillian Dunsmore, Marie Löhr; Mrs. Joseph Tibbenham, Lottie Venne; Mrs. Ray Marrison, Violet Farebrother; Nurse Benson, Blanche Stanley; Watts, Marjorie Battiss). 'Mr. R. C. Carton and Mr. Huntly McCarthy ... have succeeded in accomplishing a feat hitherto unachieved by our contemporary dramatists - writing a play which ambles along in a pleasant and sentimentally humorous vein for three acts and then in the fourth explodes (and with it the audience) into an ebullition of high comedy' (Truth, 26 June 1918). '‘The piece in which Mr. Carton has joined hands with Mr. McCarthy is comic, sentimental, and melodramatic. Mingled manners and moods are not an advantage in a play, and Nurse Benson can scarcely be described as a model of form. Mr. Carton is fond of a rather close construction, whereas Mr. McCarthy has an expansive way with him; and these individual characteristics of treatment do not blend well in their joint work. If one looks for predominant values in a play, one looks in vain in this instance. Nor must one look for anything like a consistent rendering of character and the interplay of character' (The Stage, 27 June 1918). ‘“Nurse Benson,” by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, which was produced at the Globe Theatre last week, is a pleasant and often highly amusing comedy of modern manners, with an attractive love story, in which the principals are an unconventional young lady of title masquerading as a nurse, and a wounded V.C. officer. Of course, there are cross-purposes, but they arise naturally, and the romance goes forward to its happy climax on a gentle ripple of fun that is not much hindered by the somewhat vague antagonism of a couple of rather melodramatic characters' (Acton Gazette, 28 June1918). 'This is one of the most delightfully witty and charming little comedies which London has seen for a long, long while ... Not for a long time has London given a more cordial welcome to a new piece, nor for a still longer time with greater justification ... the acting was worthy of the comedy, and the comedy is worthy to be the great outstanding success of the present season’ (The Tatler, 3 July 1918). ‘By request of Queen Alexandra, who intends to be present, a special matinee of “Nurse Benson” will be given at the Globe Theatre on Thursday, July 18, the proceeds of which will be devoted to the Roll of Honour Hospital for Children’ (The People, 7 July 1918). 'The theme is of a more or less everyday kind; the real person is unable to undertake a certain duty: another is ready to deputise for her and for reasons of diplomacy, uses the “real” person’s name. But the authors of the commingling of the genuine with the spurious have invested an ordinary pilot with much more than ordinary interest, and have endowed it with the richest of rich humour. In short, Mr. R. C. Carton and Mr. Justin Huntley McCarthy have written something which in the hands of Miss Marie Lohr and a brilliant company, succeeds in dispersing the gloom and monotony of life lived under the spell of the long-drawn-out war' (Harrow Observer, 19 July 1918). '‘“Nurse Benson,” produced by Miss Marie Löhr at the Globe Theatre, continues to draw good houses. It is a pleasant and well acted comedy, with amusing conversational interplay provocative of much gentle laughter' (Hendon and Finchley Times, 1 November 1918). 'Here is quite the ideal play for war time - with a brave soldier for its hero, and a war-working girl of aristocratic lineage for its heroine; but no “alarums and excursions,” just pleasantry, and a brilliant wit and a dash of sentiment' (The Globe, 11 December 1918). ‘What is wrong with the theatre? Like most things in this life, it depends entirely on the point of view. For those whose artistic cravings do not extend beyond amorphous revue and salacious farce, there is nothing wrong with the theatre. It is what they would probably call a “bit of alright.” Those who are content with harmless, unpretentious light comedy have not much to complain of. Even during the war there has been no lack of this class of entertainment, Some of the pleasantest plays have come from America, but such native productions as “General Post” [by J. E. Harold Terry], “Nurse Benson” [by R. C. Carton and J. H. McCarthy] and “The Title” [by Arnold Bennett] are not at all to be despised. The intellectual drama, which had been on the whole progressing before the war, was stricken dumb in August, 1914' (Sunday Mirror, 22 December 1918). The Daily Mirror, Saturday 22 March 1919, advertised the last two performances that day of Nurse Benson at the Globe Theatre. ‘In one of the chief London newspapers there has been a keen and interesting correspondence on the neglect, chiefly in London, of the intellectual drama. The phrase need not be identified with “serious drama,” nor with the kind of production which a few years ago was described as “high-browed.” The intellectual drama may be comedy ... the complaint to-day is not that there have not been good plays, but that Londoners cannot see them, since the theatres are for the most part owned by syndicates who seek to supply “What the Public wants,” and think that the answer is Revue, or plays which, whether musical or otherwise, present some of the features for which some revues have been conspicuous. There have, it is true, been some plays produced since the war began that have been worthy of reasonable people’s attention, such as Barrie’s “Dear Brutus,” Carton’s “Nurse Benson,” and one or two more, but a correspondent has asked pathetically where is the equivalent now of the plays that used to be performed when Mr Granville Barker was directing the Court Theatre, when Sir H. Beerbohm Tree was producing lavishly at His Majesty’s' (Western Daily Press, 25 March 1919).

‘Witty, amusing, full of delightful situations, “Nurse Benson,” at the Opera House this week, is a play to be thankful for. It is a tonic in these days, and for the time drives away all troubles. The reputation of play is evidently wide, for there was an excellent house last night, and there will certainly be crowded houses throughout the week. The acting is a triumph for Miss Doris Kendal as Lady Gillian Dunsmore, the very flippant, charming, loveable niece of Lord Messiger, who pretends he [sic] is a qualified nurse, to the delight of her soldier patient though to the scandal of the said soldier’s worthy parents. Mr. J. Edward Pearce, as Lord Messiger, played with a very real appreciation of his part, and amused the audience with his fussy bewilderment at his niece’s behaviour, and his wonderful schemes for making the general public and his household economise in war time. The other parts were well supported, and it is a treat to have a comedy so well acted as that is by the Taylor Platt Company'. Northampton Chronicle and Echo, 11 February 1919.

‘By arrangement with Marie Löhr, Taylor Platt’s company are presenting this week the comedy Nurse Benson. The part of Lady Gillian Dimsmore [sic - Dunsmore], who afterwards assumes the name of Nurse Benson, is most excellently and successfully played by Doris Kendal. Harry C. Robinson represents the Hon. Brooke Stanway in good style. J. Edward Pearce causes much amusement as Lord Messiger, and Mary Griffiths as Mrs. Joseph Tibbenham, delights the house in her attempts to pronounce her h’s. The parts of Capt. Tibbenham, V.C., and his father, Joseph Tibbenham, are admirably portrayed by H. Blake Probert and Philip Fuller. James Hornby and Jean Stanley as Mr. and Mrs. Ray Morrison [sic – Marrison] act skilfully. The minor parts are played in capital fashion by Mary Polson, George P. Polson, Frederic Norris, W. Besley Beltram, Val Norton, and Daisy Blake’. The Stage, 20 February 1919.

‘“Nurse Benson,” the successful comedy from the Globe Theatre, London, will be played next week at the Royal County Theatre, Reading, by the Taylor Platt Company ... “Nurse Benson” is written by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, and playgoers will not be disappointed at the result of these two famous playwrights collaborating. The play is described by the London Press as “Quite the brightest and best comedy for many a day,” and the authors have given exceptionally smart dialogue and one of the most riotously funny comedy scents of misunderstanding that can be imagined. Complete production as used at the Globe Theatre is carried. The strong cast includes: Miss Doris Kendal, Miss Mary Griffith, Mr. Harry Robinson, Mr. P. Fuller, Mr. Blake Probert, Mr. Besley Bertram, Mr. George Polson and Mr. J. Edward Pearce’ (Reading Observer, 22 February 1919). ‘The delightful and charming comedy “ Nurse Benson,” which is appearing at the Royal County Theatre this week, has been aptly described as one of a most refreshing character. Miss Mary Polson [sic - Doris Kendal?] in her role of “ Lady Gillian Dunsmore” and when she also impersonates “Nurse Benson” makes most of the complex situations which ensue in the course of the piece and in a most creditable manner, the “houses” nightly showing very heartily their appreciation of the capable performance. She is well supported by the other members of the company’ (Reading Observer, 1 March 1919).

‘Miss Marie Lohr’s principal company commenced a three nights’ engagement at the New Theatre last evening in “Nurse Benson.” The play was first produced at the Globe Theatre, London, in June last, and is still running with conspicuous success. “Nurse Benson” is the name assumed by Lady Cillian [sic – Gillian] Dunsmore, who during the war has qualified as a V.A.D. for the purpose of nursing a wealthy and attractive young officer who is invalided home from the front. The play offers plenty of scope for the artistes, the dialogue is both clever and witty, and hearty laughter is frequently provoked. In the title rôle Miss Hazel Jones, who was formerly a member of Sir George Alexander’s “Aristocrat” company, acted with conspicuous talent throughout, and at the close of the play was repeatedly recalled. Lord Messiger, a nobleman with a passion for economy, is cleverly enacted by Mr. James Carrall, Mr. Clifford Poulteney [sic - Poultney] is capital as Captain Tibbenham V.C., the wounded hero, whilst the remaining rôles are all effectively filled’. Oxford Chronicle and Reading Gazette, Friday 28 February 1919.

‘At The Gaiety Theatre, Hastings [next week]. “Nurse Benson,” the new comedy by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntley McCarthy was produced at the Globe Theatre on June 21st last year and is still playing to packed houses at each performance ... The complications and misunderstandings which arise out of Lady Gillian’s escapades are ludicrous in the extreme, and keep the audience rocking with merriment from the rise of the curtain until its fall. The strong cast includes Miss Doris Kendal, Miss Mary Griffith, Mr. Harry Robinson, Mr. P. Fuller, Mr. Blake Probert, Mr. Besley Beltman [sic – Beltram], Mr. George Polson and Mr. J Edward Pearce. The complete production (as at the Globe Theatre) is carried. There will one matinee, Saturday, at 2.30’. Bexhill-on-Sea Observer, 1 March 1919; also the Hastings and St Leonards Observer, the same date.

The Hampshire Telegraph, Friday 28 February 1919, advertised at the Theatre Royal, Portsmouth the following week ‘Marie Lohr’s Company present “Nurse Benson,” By R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy. Now Playing at the Globe Theatre, London’.

‘“Nurse Benson,” playing at the Opera House this week, may be written down at once as a “pretty” play, with a judicious admixture of sentiment and humour, and a modicum of plot sufficient to carry through four acts. Judged on “Liberty Hall” standard, the play is perhaps a little disappointing, for Mr. Carton scarcely attains the strength or variety of characterisation that is so marked a feature of his earlier work. The nouveau riche mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tibbenham, parents of the V.C. hero, are the only two who attain may great individuality. “Nurse Benson,” too, is a war play, for it tells of the super-conscientious patriots who “ration” themselves and everybody else to a most drastic degree'. Leicester Daily Post, 11 March 1919.

‘Fresh and as new-mown hay is “Nurse Benson,” the comedy by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, which is being presented at the Pleasure Gardens Theatre this week by Miss Marie Löhr’s principal company. Its wholesome tone is one which most commend it to all playgoers. Exception is sometimes taken to plays because they are too daring or risque, and the question why it is necessary to introduce certain elements is asked. But in this instance there is no ground for raising any question as to propriety. The spirit of pure comedy pervades the whole production, and there is nothing to which the most fastidious can take exception ... It is a simple plot, but the manner which it elaborated affords capital entertainment which is highly relished. Great care has been taken in the delineation of the various characters, which are limned by master craftsmen, and the result is strikingly effective' (Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate & Cheriton Herald, 15 March 1919). ‘The story of “Nurse Benson,” this week’s attraction at the Pleasure Gardens Theatre, is one which appeals to the heart and the mind - especially the heart. Further, it ripples with pleasant laughter from beginning to end, and compels with equal force admiration from young and old alike' (Folkestone Express, Sandgate, Shorncliffe & Hythe Advertiser, 15 March 1919).

The Stage, 13 and 20 March 1919, listed Marie Löhr’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 17 March at the D.P., Eastbourne. Also The Era, 19 March 1919. Advertised in the Eastbourne Chronicle, 15 March 1919.

‘“Nurse Benson” is a bright comedy. Doris Kendall as Lady Gillian Dunsmore and the pseudo-Nurse Benson is admirable, and her scenes with Harry C. Robinson as Brooke Stanway are delightful. H. Blake Probert gives a fine interpretation of Capt. Tibbenham, V.C., and Philip Fuller and Mary Griffiths as Mr. and Mrs. Tibbenham are all that one could desire. J. Edward Pearce is a worthy Lord Messiger, and the remaining characters are well represented by James Hornby, George K. Polson, Frederick Norris, W. Besley Beltran [sic - Beltram], Val Norton, Jean Stanley, Mary Polson, and Daisy Blake’. The Stage, 20 March 1919.

‘“Nurse Benson” is being ably presented by Marie Löhr’s company [at the Royal, Brighton]. In the rôle of Lady Gillian Dunsmore Hazel Jones is charmingly natural, and Miss Alice Wills appears successfully in the name-part. Lord Messiger is cleverly played by James Carrall, and S. A. Cookson impersonates the Hon. Brooke Stanway with considerable skill. With commendable restraint Clifford Poultney portrays Captain Tibbenham, V.C., the manly young hero; and as the parents Basil Dyne and Drusilla Wills are responsible for two striking character studies. Gerald Saffrey and Hilda K. Travers as Mr. and Mrs. Ray Marrison, Charles Bishop as Sergeant Hinks, Bailey Egan as Moxon, and Clayton Bentley as Smeeton also add their quota to the success of the performance’. The Stage, 27 March 1919.

The Era, 19 and 26 March 1919, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On The Road in Nurse Benson from 24 March at the T.R., York. Also The Stage, 20 and 27 March 1919.

‘Having been staged with such decided success at the Globe Theatre, London, “Nurse Benson,” Miss Marie Lohr’s latest play, paid its first visit to Grantham on Monday. It is an original comedy, comprising four acts and has a delightfully interesting and appealing story'. Grantham Journal, 5 April 1919.

‘Few plays possess more charm or freshness than “Nurse Benson,” the original comedy from the Globe Theatre being presented at the Theatre Royal this week. Written by R. C. Carton & Justin Huntly McCarthy “Nurse Benson” is a war production without any of its horrors. As a matter of fact from start to finish it is a dainty and quite unconventional love story, with some smart dialogue dealing with the National Deprivations Department, in which, however, the rigid observance of love economy has been carefully omitted'. Bournemouth Graphic, 4 April 1919.

The Era, 2 and 9 April March 1919, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On The Road in Nurse Benson from 7 April at the P.O.W., Grimsby. Also The Stage, 3 and 10 April 1919.

‘“Nurse Benson,” presented by Marie Löhr’s company [at the Royal, Plymouth], is the essence of true comedy; crisp, and laughter provoking. The Lady Gillian of Hazel Jones is a dainty assumption of the part of the fascinating nurse, greatly aided by the finish and grace of her acting. James Carrall does extremely well as the testy Lord Messiger. From S. A. Cookson we have a clever piece of acting in the part of the somewhat irresponsible Brook Stanway. Clifford Poulteney [sic – Poultney] (an old Plymouth favourite) does sound and efficient work as Captain Tibbenham, V.C.; as does also Basil Dyne as the father of the Captain. As the butler Smeeton, Clayton Bentley is clever and amusing. Charles Bishop gives a good portrayal of Sergeant Hicks. The rôle of Mrs. Tibbenham is in the capable hands of Drusilla Wills’. The Stage, 10 April 1919.

The Era, 9 and 16 April March 1919, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On The Road in Nurse Benson from 14 April at the O.H., Buxton. Also The Stage, 10 April 1919.

‘One of the few dramatic successes during the war is “Nurse Benson,” a comedy - perhaps “farcical comedy” may be used to describe it - by two experienced writers, Mr R. C. Carton and Mr Justin Huntly McCarthy, which had a long run at the Globe Theatre. It is not a great play, nor will it make dramatic history, but as a bright and merry entertainment, as a play with a perfect wealth of amusing character-sketches, and with a tangle of cross-purposes at once more funny and less hackneyed than the too familiar complications of many farcical plays, “Nurse Benson” has deserved its success ... It belongs to farce rather than to comedy ... And yet there are moments of true comedy, and the farce is never of the kind to make the judicious grieve. The laughter the play evokes is constant, and it is hearty and honest laughter. It is as though the authors had taken up the challenge thrown down by musical comedies and revues, and said that without songs and dances, and without vulgarity, they could produce an entertainment that could delight audiences and send them away cheered and refreshed by two and half hours of merriment. It sometimes happens that plays that are well acted in London are not done well by the provincial companies that offer imperfect copies of the original creations. But the company that is appearing at the Prince’s Theatre this week more than satisfied the large audience last evening'. Western Daily Press, 15 April 1919.

‘Mr. Watson Mill is distinctly fortunate in the attraction which he has secured for Easter week, as the crowded houses each night have testified. “Nurse Benson,” a comedy by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, has had a successful run at the Globe Theatre ... The playwrights made no pretence at constructing an elaborate plot, indeed, we are told almost at the outset what is to happen. The charm of “Nurse Benson,” therefore, lies in the way in which a perfectly obvious denouement is reached. And there is no mistaking that charm when we have Doris Kendal in the leading rôle. As Lady Gillian Dunsmore she exhibits a gaieté de coeur which is most refreshing, and which even the blasé theatre-goer finds irresistible. It may be said, in fact, that she is the making of the play, for without her charming personality it is possible that “Nurse Benson” might not be the undoubted success that it is. Nevertheless the comedy is abounding in witty sallies, and its exposure of certain war time foibles and poses is a source of additional amusement ... How the Joseph Tibbenham depicted by Mr. Fuller could ever have amassed a fortune we do not understand, and that such a husband and wife should have parented a V.C. seemed flatly contradictory of the law of heredity. But that, we suppose, is a criticism which concerns the playwrights rather than actors. Anyhow, “Nurse Benson” can be depended on to provide a highly entertaining evening’. Leamington Spa Courier, 25 April 1919.

‘A company of distinction, under the direction of Marie Löhr, are presenting Nurse Benson [at the New, Cardiff] as the holiday and Race week attractions, and on Monday two houses, packed to overflowing at the matinée and the evening performance, enthusiastically greeted Hazel Jones in a charmingly natural assumption of Lady Gillian Dunsmore, the pseudo nurse Benson ...'. The Stage, 24 April 1919.

‘“Nurse Benson,” paying its first visit to Birmingham is neither farce, comedy, nor romance. It is a combination of all three, and rarely have these elements been so deftly interwoven into one harmonious whole. From moments of quiet amusement the audience rise on a natural crescendo to a spasm of uncontrollable mirth' (Birmingham Daily Gazette, 29 April 1919). ‘As in many other pieces of a like texture, “Nurse Benson” is very largely dependent for the achievement of its object - which is solely and frankly to entertain - on the manner of its presentation; and here the authors are to be felicitated on the representation under notice' (The Stage, 1 May 1919).

‘Presented at the Cheltenham Theatre this week, “Nurse Benson,” by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, is a four-act comedy, wittily conceived, skilfully constructed, and admirably acted by the Taylor Platt company. The play simply ripples with fun. The authors have given us a remarkable piece of work in the sense that it thoroughly reflects the moment. It has the war as background, and during the war even so genial a satire as Lord Messiger, the testy nobleman who devotes himself to the propaganda for Food Economy, would have been out of taste. But the agony is over, and we can afford to look back on these types of war enthusiast and smile ... In parts the action has a touch of the farcical, but the atmosphere of the play is pure comedy, and the dialogue has the true comedy quality. We can hardly speak too highly of the cast' (Gloucestershire Echo, 29 April 1919). 'Nurse Benson is charming - that is to say the lady who masquerades as the real Nurse Benson. The story which R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy have so cleverly woven round a name is one of sweet feminine duplicity. The situations which result are extremely funny, the dialogue is smart and witty, and the Taylor Platt Company who present the piece at the Opera House this week, is first-class in every respect. The comedy has a war atmosphere; it must surely have been written to cheer one in the dark days. And it does that still, for the whole play means a continued laugh from start to finish' (Cheltenham Looker-On, 3 May 1919).

‘“Nurse Benson,” a light comedy founded on impersonation, is a pleasant achievement enriched by a few somewhat eccentric characters. In addition, one is given an inkling of the finesse of the Globe production by some perfect acting by Mr. James Carroll [sic – Carrall] and Mr. Basil Dyne, who play the elderly parts of Lord Messiger and Joseph Tibbenham delightfully. The comedy is typical of the modern school, often severely criticised for levity but nevertheless productive of much healthy enjoyment. A harmless story told with fascinating humour and polished with concert pitch acting by variegated characters. Such work is not so easy as it may appear and as a refreshing form of entertainment has proved its popularity with audiences well qualified to know what is worth liking' (Birkenhead News, 7 May 1919). ‘R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, both possessed of reputations as skilled and successful dramatists, have added to their names and fame a stage attraction in “Nurse Benson.” One may call this quite an amiable, unoffending piece of comedy and sentiment, both features being more of a pleasant sedative than exciting and stimulating elements. The real charm of it is the resolute, clear, and engaging Nurse Benson of Hazel Jones' (The Stage, 8 May 1919).

‘An ideal play, “Nurse Benson,” will be presented at the Theatre Royal next week. It is an interesting love story, rich in humour, and bright and engaging. It is all pleasantry and delightful sentiment expressed in splendid dialogue which charms one and all. Though there are tense and even sad moments, laughter reigns supreme, and this simple, exceedingly human and charming comedy will always remain a happy memory to those who witnessed it. A very fine company enacts “Nurse Benson” to perfection'. Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette, 3 May 1919.

The Stage, 8 May 1919, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 12 May at the R., Worcester.

‘The humours of war rations and heroic civilian self-denial are already out of date as the jokes that may have entertained Troy, and to that extent “Nurse Benson” suffers. Indeed, most of us are only too eager to escape the war atmosphere for a year or two, and would welcome new plays or old plays that do not cater for the war-time audience After that grumble, we must say that Mr. R. C. Carton and Mr. Justin M’Carthy have written a charming play, and the run it has had in London is not surprising. It is slight certainly, too slight for four acts, and the first especially falls flat, but the fourth makes up for all. It was thoroughly enjoyed by the Lyceum audience last night, and notwithstanding the mild weather there should be full houses for the rest of the week' (Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 13 May 1919). Noted in The Stage, 15 May 1919.

‘At the Theatre Royal, Newcastle, next week, Marie Lohr’s company will appear in “Nurse Benson,” a bright comedy which has had a successful run at the Globe Theatre, London. It is a play full of pretty sentiment and pleasant humour, and while it has for its hero a wounded man, there are no excursions to battle areas and no attempt at realism. The company can be relied upon to give a capital presentation of Mr. R. C. Carton’s and Mr. Justin Huntly McCarthy’s invention’. Newcastle Daily Chronicle, 17 May 1919.

Advertised in the Cheshire Observer, 17 May 1919.

Noted in The Stage, 29 May 1919, which lists the the actors.

‘Comedy of delightful quality is the outstanding feature of “Nurse Benson,” which is being staged at the King’s Theatre this week. From beginning to end there runs through it a thread of merriment which enhances the story of the titled lady who poses as a nurse. The patient in the case is a Victoria Cross hero, and the subsequent love episode is complicated by rich but vulgar parents of the soldier and by the conduct of a person who has intentions of securing the aristocratic nurse for himself. In the telling of the story, Messrs Justin Huntly M’Carthy and R. C. Carton display advantageously their distinctive talents of literary skill and knowledge of stagecraft; and for its performance there is a splendid company, who represent effectively the tenderness of sentiment, the fine humour, and the clever characterisation of the play' (The Scotsman, 27 May 1919). Noted in The Stage, 29 May 1919.

‘The performance of “Nurse Benson” was thoroughly enjoyed by a large audience on Monday [at the Royal Lyceum, Edinburgh], the unforced humour of the dialogue and the clever characterisations finding ready appreciation' (The Stage, 5 June 1919).

The Stage, 29 May and 5 June 1919, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 2 June at the Borough, E.

‘“Nurse Benson” is a war story that quickly met with the approval of a large holiday audience at the Prince’s. It is full of good comedy and some most amusing situations arise through the action of a young person, who adopting the name and uniform of the real Nurse Benson wins the affections of a wounded V.C. officer. Miss Marie Lohr’s company is one of considerable ability, and there is not a dull moment throughout the performance’. Manchester Evening News, 10 June 1919.

Noted in The Stage, 12 June 1919, which lists the actors.

‘“Nurse Benson,” on its first visit to Yarmouth, at the Theatre Royal this week, has proved an undoubted treat and nightly large audiences have testified to an excellent interpretation by the Taylor- Platt Co. of the four-act comedy which has already been performed over 300 times at the Globe Theatre, London. The plot is charmingly original, and each of the four acts provides a feast of mirth, while the love scenes are well-written and not over-done. The acting is superb ... The whole cast of the piece is excellent and the bewildering “cross purposes” were admirably sustained in such a way as to cause the audience to wonder how all the difficulties presented owing to Lady Gillian Dunsmore assuming the character of the real Nurse Benson, an old-fashioned, capable, red-faced and loud-voiced lady, could be overcome'. Yarmouth Independent, 21 June 1919.

‘“Nurse Benson,” which was presented to a good audience at the New Theatre last night, is a comedy of topsy-turvydom, intentional and otherwise. The two chief characters - the hero and the heroine – are non-essential: the minor characters are the life and soul of the piece. The major theme of the play is (of course) Love, but there is about as much real love-interest in it as there is in, say. “Religio Medici.” Sentiment there is in abundance - mais que voulez-vous? However, “Nurse Benson” is an excellent comedy, humorous rather than witty, and with the humour lying in the minor characters rather than in the words. The plot and dialogue are of no importance whatever. Twenty minutes after the rising of the curtain one can see straight ahead to the end, and prophesy most of the alarums and excursions: one can dismiss all anxiety as to the persons in the play from one’s mind, and comfortably study the characters ... One can foretell that the curtain will descend with “Nurse Benson” and Capt Tibbenham in each other’s arms, as easily and confidently as one can guess that the sun will set this evening'. Cambridge Daily News, 26 August 1919.

‘Another of the Taylor Platt Companies is located at the Theatre Royal, Lincoln, this week, and those who greatly enjoyed “Billeted” a fortnight ago may be informed that this is a performance quite up that high standard. “Nurse Benson” is, however, an altogether different story, and concerns, rather than the real Nurse Benson - not a very adorable person - the Lady Gillian Dunsmore, who poses as that official. The consequence is that whereas Captain Tibbenham, V.C., is nursed to convalescence by, as he supposed, the real Benson, he finds that the lady who has captured his affections - for this is a love story pure and simple - is a different personage entirely. It is all a very pleasant piece of comedy, and with such authors as R. L. Carton [sic – R. C. Carton] and Justin Huntly McCarthy in collaboration it may be taken for granted that the dialogue sparkles'. Lincolnshire Echo, 2 September 1919.

The Era, 3 September 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On The Road from 8 September at the T.R., Norwich. Also The Stage, 11 September 1919.

The Stage, 11 September 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 15 September at the Kur, Bognor, for three nights, and at the R., Worthing, also for three nights. ‘This splendid comedy [“Nurse Benson”] scored a huge success at the Theatre Royal on Monday before a large audience ... Every one should see this play as it is, we think, one of the best we have seen in Bognor for some time’ (Bognor Regis Observer, 17 September 1919).

The Stage, 11 September 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 15 September at the Kur, Bognor, for three nights, and at the R., Worthing, also for three nights. Advertised in the Worthing Gazette, Wednesday 17 September 1919, for Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Noted in The Era, 17 September 1919, as performed ‘during the end of the week’.

‘We have not the slightest hesitation in saying that the play “Nurse Benson,” which is being produced at the Palace Theatre, Ramsgate, this week, is one of the most charming comedies ever presented to a local audience. On Monday evening the theatre was crowded with patrons, who listened with the greatest enjoyment to the sparkling dialogue, and loudly applauded the really wonderful acting. Every line of the play is witty, the situational natural vet screamingly funny, and altogether “Nurse Benson” is a play to be seen and remembered ... The theatre has been crowded at every performance so far, and none should miss the opportunity of seeing this really clever production’ (East Kent Times and Mail, 24 September 1919). ‘It not often that a play so wholesomely mirth-provoking as “Nurse Benson,” appearing at the Palace Theatre, Ramsgate, this week, has been given such an excellent production in the town ... There is a hopeless and apparently inextricable tangle of identity, and in the last scene the clever absurdity of it all grows to such a pitch that the audience is convulsed with helpless laughter. The play is splendidly acted, and the company is happy in a particularly clever caste' (Thanet Advertiser, 27 September 1919).

The Stage, 25 September 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 29 September at the R., Guildford.

The Stage, 9 October 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 6 October at Brixton.

‘If anyone had doubts as to the humour with which Nurse Benson,” the Globe Theatre success, abounds he would have had them set at rest had he listened to the wellnigh continuous laughter with which the audience at the Theatre Royal, Exeter, received its presentation last evening. It is a clever conception, full of the most laughable complications, but from start to finish there is really nothing to which exception can be taken, and for an evening’s real, undiluted enjoyment commend us to a visit to “Nurse Benson.” Authors less clever than R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy might have found the tangles they create too involved to fashion a clear and satisfactory ending ... [but] everything works out it should in the final five minutes. Naturally, a comedy built upon the lines followed by the creators of “Nurse Benson” depends, to a large extent, upon the dialogues, and in this respect the comedy is sparkling in the extreme. Laughter is in the ascendant while the various characters try to make themselves understood by each other ... It is all real fun, and if full houses are not the order of the night at the Theatre this week we shall be very disappointed. It is an extremely capable company which Mr. Taylor Platt has brought to the city, and all the members fill their appointed roles in the most natural manner'. Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 14 October 1919.

The Stage, 16 and 23 October 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 20 October at the O.H., Torquay.

Previewed in the Gloucester Journal, 25 October 1919: ‘the strong cast includes Miss Doris Kendal, Miss Mary Griffith, Mr. F. Fuller [sic – P. Fuller], Mr. Eric Fane, Mr. Harold Payton, Mr. George Polson, and Mr. J. Edward Pearce’. ‘“Nurse Benson,” the comedy visiting the Palace Theatre this week for the first time, belongs to the category of entertainments which, if they do not actually renew a right spirit within us they at least put us in fresh and improved temper. The piece comes direct from the Globe Theatre, London, and in the hands of the Taylor Platt Company provides two and a half hours’ first-rate comedy. It not a farce after the order of “Charley’s Aunt,” but it is redolent with good, honest laughter nevertheless; and though it begins quietly enough, as the plot thickens and the tangle grows, so does the merriment become more absorbing. There is just that vein of love and sentiment running through the piece which gives it sweetness and cohesion' (Gloucester Journal, 1 November 1919).

Previewed in the Staffordshire Sentinel, 31 October 1919: ‘The cast … includes Miss Doris Kendal, Miss Mary Griffith, Mr. F. Fuller [sic – P. Fuller], Mr. Eric Fane, Mr. Harold Payton, Mr. James Hornby, Mr. George Polson, and Mr. J. Edward Pearce’. Also, 'the “Nurse Benson” comedy at the Theatre Royal this week is one of the most delightful entertainments we have met with for a long while. The clever, bubbling, and pretty comedy is played by a really excellent company, who give us some distinguished acting ... The comedy and the acting are alike brilliant, and there was no mistaking the keen appreciation and the wholehearted enjoyment of last night’s audience ... The play is beautiful and enchanting comedy, full of dainty and innocent fun and sentiment; and the company now in Hanley do it full justice ... It is refreshing and stimulating and incidentally it is a lesson in good manners, frank and pure friendship, and kind-heartednesses. It is one of the best things since the Robertson comedies, and is also quite modern ... Comedy and company are mutually worthy of one another. It is an irresistible production, and there should be large audiences' (Staffordshire Sentinel, 4 November 1919).

Advertised in the Birkenhead News, 5 November 1919. The Era, 5 November 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On The Road from 10 November at the T.R., Birkenhead; also The Stage, 6 and 13 November 1919.

The Stage, 13 and 20 November 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 17 November at the O.H., Blackpool. Previewed in the Fleetwood Chronicle, 14 November 1919. Noted in The Stage, 20 November 1919.

The Yorkshire Evening Post, 22 November 1919, listed Nurse Benson as being performed at the Opera House, Scarborough, on Monday to Wednesday of the following week.

The Yorkshire Evening Post, 22 November 1919, listed Nurse Benson as being performed at the Opera House, Harrogate, on Thursday to Saturday of the following week.

The Stage, 27 November 1919, listed Nurse Benson as On Tour from 1 December at the W.G., New Brighton. ‘An actor, Joseph Edward Pearce (55), who was appearing as Lord Messenger [sic] in the comedy “Nurse Benson” at the Winter Gardens, New Brighton, died suddenly on Saturday [6 December]. He called at the theatre box office for letters, and on going into the street collapsed and died’. Lancashire Evening Post, 8 December 1919. Also reported in the Runcorn Guardian, 9 December 1919; the Northampton Mercury, 12 December 1919; the Kington Times, 13 December 1919; and The Stage, 18 December 1919.

‘At the Grand Theatre this week Luton theatregoers have their first opportunity of seeing “Nurse Benson,” the greatest success Miss Marie Lohr has had since she undertook management on her own. It is a clean, wholesome comedy, brilliantly written by two of the most successful authors of modern times, R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy, and possessing just enough sentiment and excitement and a last act to put the firm seal of success on the whole production. It is being presented once nightly, and at a Saturday matinee at 2.30 by the Taylor Platt Co. whose presentations at the Grand of such successes as “Milestones” and “The Man Who Stayed at Home” are a sufficient guarantee of the excellences of the production’ (Luton Reporter, 9 December 1919). ‘The Grand Theatre was not nearly full on Monday night as it should have been, probably because many people failed to realise what an entertaining play “Nurse Benson” was likely be. Since then they have learned that it is too good to miss. It is a very charming comedy, built up round the act of a charming young lady with V.A.D. training, who takes the place of an elderly nurse who has been engaged to attend a convalescent V.C., but who is unable to fulfil her engagement. It is to be expected that from this imposture all sorts of complications would ensue, and they do. Of course, it all pans out happily in the end, but before this happy ending is reached there is very much that is highly entertaining. “Nurse Benson” can be confidently recommended to all who want the tonic of a really jolly night’s amusement' (Luton News and Bedfordshire Chronicle, 11 December 1919).

The Era, 4 and 11 February 1920, listed Nurse Benson as On the Road from 9 February at the Memorial T., Stratford-on-Avon, and from 12 February at the O.H., Buxton.

The Era, 11 February 1920, listed Nurse Benson as On the Road from 12 February at the O.H., Buxton, and from 16 February at the G., Leek (3).

The Era, 11 and 18 February 1920, listed Nurse Benson as On the Road from 16 February at the G., Leek (3).

‘“Nurse Benson” is one of those quiet amusing comedies that keeps an audience smiling from beginning to end, but does not cause roars of laughter. Everybody in the play is interesting and creates fresh smiles, every situation makes you smile, and nearly every sentence, and when you leave you feel that it has been an evening pleasantly spent in amusing company. The performance last night was good. Maud Linden as Lady Gillian is pretty and charming, and freakish, and acts well. But most delightful was Mr. George P. Polson as Lord Mesiger [sic – Messiger]. He acted with real appreciation of all that the part contains, and the same may justly be said of Miss Mary Griffiths as Mrs. Tibbenham. The company contains no weak spot'. Northampton Chronicle and Echo, 24 February 1920.

‘“Nurse Benson” as played at the Globe Theatre, London, over 300 times. Corn Exchange, Chelmsford, March 1st, 2nd, & 3rd. Each evening at 8 o’clock. Matinée Wednesday 3 o’clock' (Chelmsford Chronicle, 20 February 1920). Also, ‘At the Corn Exchange next week the Taylor Platt Company will present” Nurse Benson,” one of the finest comedies the stage has seen for some time There is a strong cast’ (Chelmsford Chronicle, 27 February 1920).

The Stage, 4 March 1920, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 4 March for three nights at Kettering.

The Stage, 4 and 11 March 1920, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 8 March at the Pal., Westcliff.

Advertised in the Eastbourne Chronicle, 13 March 1920, as performed by Marie Lohr’s principal company.

‘Diverting “Nurse Benson,” presented by Taylor Platt’s company, by arrangement with Marie Lohr, is the attraction here [the Wimbledon Theatre] this week, and is proving much to the taste of Mr. Mulholland’s patrons. Miss Maud Linden in the character of Lady Gillian Dunsmole [sic – Dunsmore] was charmingly vivacious and delightful. Miss Mary Griffiths was very amusing as Mrs. Tibbenham, the would-be lady; Miss Lilian Stanley as Mrs. Ray Morrison [sic – Marrison] had little to do, but did it well; Miss Mary Polson as the real Nurse Benson caused much laughter; and Miss Norah J. Hood was a pretty maid. Mr. George P. Polson deserve hearty praise for his rendering of Lord Messiger; and Mr. Philip Fuller was excellent as the good hearted nouveau riche Joseph Tibbenham; Mr. John Raymond as Captain Tibbenham, V.C., looked handsome and interesting, and played his lover’s part satisfactorily, as did also Mr. Eric Fane as his friend, Brooke Starway [sic – Stanway]; Mr. James Hornby was Ray Morrison [sic – Marrison]; Mr. William Bairdt(?) Smeeton, the butler; Mr. Alex Clifton, Moxon, the secretary; and Mr. Cecil Storey, the footman, Johns’. The Era, 17 March 1920.

The Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate & Cheriton Herald, 20 March 1920, published a photograph captioned, ‘The above scene occurs in Act 2 of “Nurse Benson,” which is to be played at the Pleasure Gardens Theatre next week’. ‘That charming and delightful comedy “Nurse Benson,” written by Messrs. R. C. Carton and Justin Hutley [sic – Huntly] McCarthy, is again at the Pleasure Gardens Theatre this week, and as on its initial visit it has met with an exceedingly warm reception. Miss Marie Lohr’s No. 1 company is again responsible for its production, and most of the artistes then appearing now renew an acquaintance with the Folkestone public, who, in no uncertain manner, have shown their high appreciation of a splendid performance of the comedy. The story is a sparkling and a witty one, its humour being characterised by a richness which is rarely met. An interesting love story, strong in sentiment, adds greatly to the piquancy of the play, which right throughout. keeps everyone thoroughly interested and amused' (Folkestone Express, Sandgate, Shorncliffe & Hythe Advertiser, 27 March 1920). ‘The attraction at the Pleasure Gardens Theatre this week consists of “Nurse Benson,” which is again presented by Miss Marie Lohr’s principal company - a combination of rare individual and collective talent. The. comedy of R. C. Carton and Justin Huntley McCarthy takes high rank amongst plays of this kind, and many have been delighted to see it again, whilst to those who have not yet seen it at all it can be recommended as something which will afford them a rich treat. “Nurse Benson” is not a war play in the ordinary sense of the term, although the dramatis personae include a V.C. winner, and some of the dialogue is founded upon the scarcity of sugar and other articles' (Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate & Cheriton Herald, 27 March 1920).

The Stage, 18 and 25 March 1920, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 22 March at R., Canterbury. Also The Era, 24 March 1920.

‘At the Gaiety Theatre, next week, [the] Taylor Platt Company will present “Nurse Benson,” one of the finest comedies our stage has seen for some time. “Nurse Benson” is an ideal play for the times - all pleasantry and pretty sentiment; its hero is a wounded hero, but there are no alarums of war or excursions to battlefields. It is a bright, engaging comedy, written by two of our greatest authors, B. C. [sic – R. C.] Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy. There is an interesting love story that is as rich in humour as it is strong in sentiment, and by a great triumph in high comedy writing it goes along to an increasing tempest of laughter. Plays that begin well often finish badly, but here is one that works out proper crescendo. It is good, better, best. “Nurse Benson” was produced at the Globe Theatre, London, where it achieved instantaneous success, and was played at that theatre for over performances. The strong cast includes:- Miss Maud Linden, Miss Mary Griffith, Miss Lilian Stanley, Miss Mary Polson, Miss Norah J. Hood, Mr. P. Fuller, Mr. Eric Fane, Mr. John Raymond, Mr. James Hornby, and Mr. George Polson' (Hastings and St Leonards Observer, 27 March 1920; also the Bexhill-on-Sea Observer, 27 March 1920 which published two photographs of the production, including one of Maud Linden).

‘A return visit is being paid to the Royal by “Nurse Benson.” It is staged by Marie Lohr’s principal company, which is almost identical with that which played the comedy locally twelve months ago. Hazel Jones, who made such a favourable impression on her first visit, is again appearing as Lady Gillian Dunsmore, a part which she portrays with vivacity and charm. All the members of the company are adding their full share to the success achieved, and their efforts met with hearty recognition on Monday evening from a large audience'. The Stage, 1 April 1920.

The Stage, 1 and 8 April 1920, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 5 April at the New, Salisbury.

‘Next week at the Royal County Theatre, Reading, “Nurse Benson,” the well known successful comedy, will be produced by a specially selected Company under the Taylor Platt regime. The love interest is also full of humour, and the mistaken identity of the Nurse Benson leads to some of the most amusing scenes and comic situations. From the beginning to the end it increases in comedy and has the merit that it begins well, every act is better than the preceding and the last one is a tornado of mirth . The cast includes:- Miss Maud Linden, Miss Mary Griffiths, Miss Lilian Stanley, Miss Mary Polson, Miss Norah J. Hood, Mr. P. Fuller, Mr. Eric Fane, Mr. John Raymond, Mr. James Hornby and Mr. George Polson’. Reading Observer, 10 April 1920.

‘“Nurse Benson” is here [the Prince’s, Manchester]. Hazel Jones’s piquant and charming assumption of Lady Gillian Dunsmore, the impersonator of Nurse Benson, wins all hearts. Clifford B. Poultney displays the necessary restraint as the invalid V.C. A fine character -sketch of the would-be-lady, Mrs. Tibbenham, comes from Drusilla Wills. James Carrah [sic – Carrall] also contributes! a life like characterisation as Lord Messiger’. The Stage, 15 April 1920.

The Stage, 15 April 1920, listed Marie Löhr’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 19 April at the H.M., Carlisle.

‘Some plays are a tonic, and “Nurse Benson” is one of them. It is a charming play, cleverly written, with humour and tenderness blended in delightful relation to each other. The well-thought out and amusing little plot is too good to tamper with by attempting to summarise it. The company in whose hands it safely rests at the Theatre this week deserve a full house every night, for they make the most of it, and leave a very pleasant memory when the curtain has fallen'. Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 30 April 1920.

The Stage, 22 April 1920, listed Marie Löhr’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 26 April at the K.’s, Glasgow.

‘“Nurse Benson,” paying its second visit to the Royal Opera House this week, is one of the batch of plays that appeared during the war, with the war more or less for their theme. It may rank as a war play, but really the war has very little to do with it beyond the fact that the hero is a V.C., and there is some preliminary talk about an economy campaign. Indeed, with the fact in mind that people would much rather put all thought of the war out of their recollections, “Nurse Benson” might very well be rearranged and made into an ordinary little human comedy. The plot would suffer nothing, and the interest in it would with very little trouble be kept more up-to-date' (Leicester Daily Post, 4 May 1920). ‘I should have liked to have seen a larger attendance at the Opera House when I was in on Monday night, for “Nurse Benson” is the sort of play which ought to be encouraged. I know that the days are lengthening, and that theatre-going is therefore becoming less of an attraction, but if we do not make a point of encouraging really clever and artistic plays we cannot expect to be provided with them. As I said last week, the authors of the play, Mr. R. C. Carton and Mr. Justin Huntly McCarthy, are two of the ablest playwrights that this generation has produced in our country. Both, I admit, have done better things than are to be found in “Nurse Benson,” but there is still enough good stuff in the comedy to fit up two or three comedies of the average type with wit, humour, and character delineation. Watching the play for a second time, I was again struck with the unreality of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Marrison. They are quite inconceivable characters, from the real life point of view (and the stage should always be reasonably near to life), and they constitute the one weakness of a play which has many good points and some brilliant ones' (Leicester Daily Post, 6 May 1920).

‘“Nurse Benson,” which is on a return visit to Newcastle Theatre Royal, reminds us of the pace at which we live in this 20th century. A pretty little comedy by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntley McCarthy - who might have given it a much more attractive title – it is a story of a war-time incident around which the romance of a V.C. and his titled nurse is woven brought us back with a somewhat sharp jerk to remembrance of the fact that what seemed somewhat ancient history, as the four acts unfolded themselves, only in reality dates back a couple of years. We are falling so rapidly into normal ways that already the hand of time has drawn a veil over much of the suffering of 1914-1918, but it is a question whether it is not good that some such reminder as that given by last night’s play should be meted out occasionally'. Newcastle Daily Chronicle, 4 May 1920.

‘Seeing that affair of “Nurse Benson” belongs quite definitely to the war period, the visit of that lady to the Leeds Grand Theatre is rather belated, though there is nothing else against her' (Yorkshire Evening Post, 11 May 1920). ‘After two weeks of opera at the Grand Theatre, Leeds, there is a vivid contrast this week in the humorous play, “Nurse Benson.” Based upon the common device of impersonation, the play affords ample scope for humour, and the bizarre situations which develop are ably dealt with by Miss Alice Wills, in the title-role, and the other members of Marie Lohr’s company' (Leeds Mercury, 11 May 1920). There are notes on some of the actors in the Yorkshire Evening Post, 15 May 1920.

‘On Monday, for three nights and one matinee, [at the Royal and Hippodrome, King’s Lynn] we had Taylor Platt’s company in the amusing comedy “Nurse Benson.” Geo. P. Polson was very good as Lord Messiger. Eric Fane was amusing as Brooke Stanway. Very good were Philip Fuller and Mary Griffiths as Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tibbenham. John Raymond, as Captain Tibbenham, V.C., was excellent. Special mention must be made of Maud Linden as Lady Gillian Dunsmore, a very charming and amusing performance’. The Stage, 13 May 1920.

The Stage, 6 May 1920, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 10 May at the R., King’s Lynn (3) and the Reg. Pav., Lowestoft (3).

‘“Nurse Benson.”- This play at the Grand Theatre this week is highly amusing and entertaining. “Nurse Benson” is really the pretty little niece of a nobleman, who is masquerading in consequence of love affairs, and bathos and pathos are both well represented. The complications arising are great, and endless entertainment is provided by the novel situations. Miss Maud Linden appears in the role of Lady Gillian Dunsmore. The acting is undeniably excellent, and one cannot be too enthusiastic over Mr. George P. Polson’s drawing of the testy old Lord Messiger, and his version of Sergeant Hinks. As the real Nurse Benson, Miss Mary Polson is perfect, and wholly successful are Miss Mary Griffiths and Mr. Philip Fuller, as Mr. and Mrs. Tibbenham, and Mr. Eric Fane as the Hon. Brooke Stanway’. Hampshire Advertiser, 22 May 1920.

‘Though it has few claims to real fame, “Nurse Benson” is such delightful comedy that one can easily forgive it for having survived its war-time atmosphere. It is one of those pleasant shows to which the hackneyed phrase of “welcome return visit” can be applied with some regard to the truth' (Birmingham Daily Gazette, 18 May 1920). Noted in The Stage, 20 May 1920.

When George P. Polson, Lord Messiger in Taylor Platt’s Nurse Benson company, inserted a theatrical card in The Era, 19 May 1920, his address for the following week was the Grand, Swansea. The Era, 19 May 1920, listed Nurse Benson as On The Road from 24 May at the G., Swansea. Also The Stage, 20 and 27 May 1920.

‘“Nurse Benson,” which Miss Marie Lohr’s company is presenting next week, It is a delicious little comedy, instinct with the spirit of the hour, and has earned encomiums wherever it has been staged. It is from the pen of Mr. R. C. Carton and Mr. Justine [sic] Huntly McCarthy, and centres round a wounded hero and a nurse. The play is full of bright, engaging humour, and - this will be a recommendation to surfeited playgoers - the horrors of war have been skirted with complete success' (Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 21 May 1920). ‘The holiday audience at the Lyceum Theatre gave a warm welcome last night to Miss Marie Lohr’s company when they presented “Nurse Benson,” a comedy by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy. “Nurse Benson” is one of the best of the comedies of the war era. Opening strongly, it works up to an exceedingly clever climax. So many comedies open well but end tamely. This is not so with “Nurse Benson”; the last act is the best of the four. It is pure comedy, and as such deserves well of the public' (Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 25 May 1920).

‘No war play could be assured of a warmer welcome upon a return visit to the Prince’s Theatre, than “Nurse Benson,” R. C. Carton’s and Justin Huntly McCarthy’s clever and entertaining comedy. There is, as a matter of fact, quite a considerable strain of farce in the piece, particularly in the third and fourth acts, but this feature is not allowed to be obtrusive; whilst there are many moments when elements of real comedy predominate. The story is sufficiently familiar to most play-goers, and the fact of large audiences this week will prove, in the only fitting way that the joint authors saw ahead when they first produced the play at the Globe Theatre, London. It is the clean and witty humour, the occasional appeals to pure sentiment, that make “Nurse Benson” a piece that will easily bear seeing more than once' (Western Daily Press, 1 June 1920). Noted in The Stage, 3 June 1920.

‘The charming comedy, “ Nurse Benson,” which has numerous admirers, both in the story and in the play form, makes a welcome return visit to the Lyceum Theatre ... The whole atmosphere of the comedy will be recalled as singularly pleasant and happy, and upon this visit “Nurse Benson” should not only retain old friends but make many new ones’. Edinburgh Evening News, 5 June 1920.

‘The attraction at the Bath Theatre Royal next week will be the return visit of the Taylor Platt Company, in the exceptionally clever light comedy “Nurse Benson” - Miss Marie Lohr’s great success at the Globe Theatre. This bright comedy by G. [sic] R. C. Carton and Justin Huntley McCarthy, was produced at the Globe Theatre on June 2lst last year, and was played to packed houses for over 300 performances. It is a play for the times and there are no war scenes, although its hero is a wounded officer. It is bright and clean, and increases in comedy and laughter with every act until the last is simply a scream of delight. The whole motive of the play hinges on the impersonation of the staid and matronly nurse by Lady Gillian Dunsmore (Miss Doris Kendal) [sic - Maud Linden? - Doris Kendal had played Lady Gillian when the company visited Bath in May 1919], a wayward but delightful madcap. The complications and misunderstandings which arise out of Lady Gillian’s escapades are ludicrous in the extreme, and keep the audience rocking with merriment from the rise of the curtain until its fall. A strong cast includes: Miss Maud Linden, Miss Mary Griffith, Miss Lilian Stanley, Miss Mary Polson, Miss Norah J. Hood, Mr. P. Fuller, Mr. Eric Fane, Mr. John Raymond, Mr. James Hornby and Mr. George Polson’. Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette, 5 June 1920.

The Stage, 10 and 17 June 1920, listed Taylor Platt’s Co. as On Tour in Nurse Benson from 14 June at the Grand, Croydon. This is the last performance of 'Nurse Benson' by E. Taylor Platt's touring company that has been identified. When George Polson, Lord Messiger in Taylor Platt’s 'Nurse Benson' company, inserted a theatrical card in The Era, 19 May 1920, he noted that he would be ‘Disengaged June 21’.

‘Very good comedy fare is provided at the Royal Court Theatre, this week, by Miss May [sic] Lohr’s principal company in “Nurse Benson,” a four-act production, the work of R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy. It might be considered that as “Nurse Benson” is essentially a comedy of war-time it would now be deemed entirely out of date. That is to some extent the case but not wholly so and in the representation given by Miss Lohr’s company on Monday night, there was much to applaud, and the audience appeared well satisfied with the fare provided for them, for there are occasions on which very considerable merriment is occasioned' (Birkenhead News, 16 June 1920). ‘“Nurse Benson” owes a great deal of its popularity to the artist who happens for the time to be the fascinating masquerader, and in the present instance its debt to the player is a heavy one. Nothing could be more graciously sweet than the performance of Hazel Jones as Lady Gillian, the charming “imposter” of the real Nurse Benson' (The Stage, 17 June 1920).

‘All who visit the Theatre Royal this week will be charmed with the delightful comedy, “Nurse Benson,” presented by Miss Marie Lohr’s principal company. When R. C. Carton and Justin Huntley [sic] McCarthy put their heads together something fruitful must result. And this original comedy is truly a striking example. It has played for over three hundred times at the Globe Theatre. But while, no doubt, “the play’s the thing,” the company is the next best. Such a caste as appears at the Theatre Royal this week should draw big houses in spite of the dog-days' (Bournemouth Graphic, 25 June 1920). ‘This week Bournemouth playgoers have had another opportunity of seeing Miss Marie Löhr’s principal company in that delightful comedy, “Nurse Benson,” by R. C. Carton and Justin Huntly McCarthy. The play had the distinction of running for over 300 times at the Globe Theatre with unqualified success and it has lost none of its interest sines its previous visit to Bournemouth. There have been large audiences. and their appreciation was shown by the enthusiastic reception at the close of each act' (Bournemouth Guardian, 26 June 1920).