[The following notes refer to the article on 'Hamlet Costumes' by D. A. Russell in Shakespeare Survey, 9.]

In his 'Hamlet Costumes from Garrick to Gielgud', D. A. Russell makes reference to our Hamlet Through the Ages (1952; second impression, revised and enlarged, 1955). Though not actually quoting us wrongly, he does by certain mistakes give the impression that we must be in error in our information. We are glad of this opportunity to correct a number of factual errors in the article, which, lest they might lead others astray, need correction. We propose to deal with the text and illustrations together in order, and to note only factual errors, not those of interpretation.

1. Plate I, 2 is not an engraving of Samuel Foote, who only played Hamlet during his first engagement at the Haymarket in 1744. It is a picture of John F. Foote, who played Hamlet at Drury Lane on 12 November 1802. This completely destroys the author's idea that any costume other than contemporary dress was used before the advent of Kemble in 1783.

2. Plate I, 3. Henderson is depicted in the grave-yard scene, in which Hamlet would naturally not be wearing royal insignia, being hastily returned from England.

3. …