Misprint In The Graphic

The Grauniad are not the only rag to make the odd mistake. The Graphic's review of Pittore e Duca (4 February 1882) performed at Her Majesty's Theatre by the Carl Rosa Company refers to Herbert d'Egville's efficient performance. However, unless there were two d'Egvilles in the Carl Rosa Company this is likely to be John Hervet d'Egville.

John Hervet d'Egville as the Mikado

John spent to years with the Carl Rosa Company before moving on to the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company. Now Herbert is added to my list of synonyms for Hervet fate will likely conspire in compounding my reputation as an idiot by revealing Herbert d'Egville of the Carl Rosa Company.

Georges Bizet

On 4 February 1882 The Graphic carried a review of Balfe's Pittore e Duca performed at Her Majesty's Theatre by the Carl Rosa Company.The performance was received with great applause by the crowded audience despite Madame Valleria's cold but the review was not without reservation.

Herbert d'Egvilles efficient performance was recognised and his relationship with Georges Bizet was specifically mentioned. Herbert is identified as Bizet's cousin no less.

The Graphic 4 February 1882
The British Library Board

Helen C. Black's Pen, Pencil Baton and Mask: Biographical Sketches (1896) (see The Legend of Roma Guillon Lethière) mentions that Madame Michau, née Sophie Hervé d'Egville, was first married to Captain Augustus Bizet. Bizet is not an uncommon name either in the United Kingdom or France but other parts of Roma's legend have turned out to be true although they originate in tragedy.