Hutin Britton (1876-1965)

"The Manxman"
By William J. Locke.
Produced at the Aldwych Theatre.
Reviewed in 'The Daily Mail', London, 2nd August, 1915.

A GOOD CRY - MR. MATHESON LANG AS PETE

The dramatic version of Mr. Hall Caine's novel "The Manxman," called "Pete," after its super-sentimental hero, seemed to have lost none of its perennial popularity when revived at the Aldwych Theatre on Saturday evening.

This intensely domestic drama, which appeals to those who love a good cry, was played for all it is worth and staged with artistic realism. But the most realistic touch in the performance was given by a real baby, who acted with praiseworthy repose, though subjected to much intrusive attention.

As the hero Mr. Matheson Lang looks every inch a sailor and shows the varying emotions of this sorely tried man with great skill. The weak woman who ends by loving Pete is made quite natural and sympathetic by Miss Hutin Britton. A faithful soul attached to them both is played with genuine humour and unforced pathos by Miss Mary Brough. Pete's tub-thumping father-in-law afforded Mr. Frederick Ross a fine chance for his orotund method of expression, and the others were equally emphatic when the occasion demanded.

G. M.