The Detroit Post

1885: February 13

The "Mark Twain"-Cable readings drew a large audience to Whitney's last night, a good proportion being composed of those who enjoyed the readings of the two authors here in December last. Of the two Mr. Cable is not near as good a raconteur as Mr. Clemens, although he assumes much more of the manner of the professional elocutionist. Mr. Cable's selection most pleasing and most applauded was "Mary's Last Ride," which was narrated in a graphic manner. He sang, too, the negro boat and love songs admirably. "Mark Twain"--he should petition the legislature to legally entitle him to wear his nom de plume for every day use--has that peculiar sense of humor so dear to the American heart, which finds expression in the wildest flights of mendacity, or in a gentle burlesquing of the truth. His manner heightens the effect of everything he says, because it seems to be utterly unfitted for public readings, and yet it is thoroughly artistic, and entirely appropriate to whatever character he represents as speaking.


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