The Rivals. Playwright Richard Brinsley Butler Sheridan (1751-1816) fought two duels for the privilege of marrying a girl who had been painted by Gainsborough. Also, he wrote at least two dramatic classics (The Rivals, The School for
Scandal), made five-hour speeches in Parliament, bet foolishly on innumerable horses, was buried with high ritual in Westminster Abbey. He was a breath-taking swell; far sweller than the lacy-sleeved heroes of his dramas. Even Captain Jack Absolute of The Rivals pales by comparison with his dashing creator. Captain Jack, as everyone well-versed in English drama...
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