Page:Works of Heinrich Heine 01.djvu/339

Rh Louisa, who, during the French invasion, played Queen Constance in the royal French theatre. But miserable beyond all measure in this part was a certain Madame Caroline, who acted about in the provinces. She wanted neither beauty, talent, nor passion unfortunately she had too big a belly, which always injures an actress when she must act grandly tragic parts.

imagined her face, and especially her form, less plump, or embonpoint, than is here represented. But it may be that the sharp traits and slender form which are apparent in her words, and which her spiritual physiognomy presents, contrast the more interestingly with her well-rounded outer form. She is cheerful, cordial, and sound in body and soul. Prince Henry, who would fain make a jest of this agreeable personage, thus parodies her and her Percy:—