Velasco

Dedication
To WILLIAM C, PRESTON of South Carolina This drama is respectfully inscribed.

Preface
The basis of this play is historical, though many of its scenes and situations are purely imaginary. All that may seem strange or unnatural in the conduct of the drama is in strict accordance with popular tradition. The general action of the piece is derived from incidents in the career of Rodrigo Diaz, the Cid, whose achievements constitute so considerable a portion of the historical and romantic literature of Spain. The subject has been variously treated by French and Spanish dramatists, among others by the celebrated Corneille, but the writer is not aware that it has ever been successfully introduced upon the English stage.

A few copies of this play were printed for the Theatre in July, 1837. During the following November it was represented on the Tremont boards in Boston, Miss Ellen Tree personating the part of Izidora. With the support of her distinguished talents, united to the friendly exertions of Mr. Barry, the Manager, in producing the piece in a liberal and effective manner, it was received by the public with more indulgence than the Author had ventured to anticipate.

E. S. New York, November 1, 1838

Dramatis Personae

 * Ferdinand, King of Castile
 * Favillo, his Chamberlain
 * De Lerma
 * Velasco, Son of De Lerma
 * Gonzalez
 * Julio, Son of Gonzalez
 * Hernando, his Kinsman
 * Mendoza
 * Alfonzo
 * Nuno
 * Carlos, a page
 * Izidora, Daughter of Gonzalez
 * Knights---Soldiers---Servants, &c
 * Ladies

The Play

 * Act I
 * Act II
 * Act III
 * Act IV
 * Act V