Chapter II: Front Matter (2)

The selections upon the programme were all familiar to the audience, and thus, perhaps, enabled the sable cantatrice to challenge comparison with others by the whole audience. The impression left by the first part of the bill was, that her voice is one of great depth and reach, as she has been usually described; but not that she possessed in a marked degree, either sweetness, pathos, or delicacy--qualities which no cultivation can give, by the way. Her exercises in deep bass developed a power quite monstrous, compared with any other female voice we have ever heard.

After the interval she appeared more assured. Upon the suggestion of another, we listened to her without looking toward her during the entire performance of "the Last Rose of Summer," and were at once and satisfactorily convinced that her voice is capable of producing sounds right sweet, and not inferior in regard to any but Jenny Lind and Bishop, neither of whom, we must believe, can ever be surpassed in that quality. The whole of the second part produced effects more in favour of the songstress upon the audience generally.

If she is as devoid of professional training as represented, she surely has fine natural advantages as a vocalist. Her personal appearance is, at first, very unfavourable for the stage, and not less so, of course, on account of her colour, and the utterly inextinguishable prejudice against colour and race which she must generally encounter in this country, if not in those over the water. The instrumental part of the performance is excellent; but of it, we have not room to-day to speak.

She sings to-morrow night a choice programme.

Columbus, March 6th, 1852.

We had the pleasure of listening to this celebrated cantatrice last evening, at Neil's New Hall. We have only three things to say of her performance. The first is, that she was honoured with a crowded house, composed of the most intelligent and enlightened of our citizens: second, that all who heard her were exceedingly well pleased with all her efforts; and third, that notwithstanding it is not claimed, either by herself or friends, that she is an artistic singer, yet the compass of her voice has rarely been equalled, and the sweetness of her notes seemed to enchant every auditor.

Philadelphia, March 16th.

TO ELIZABETH GREENFIELD:--

Thy letter from Columbus came safely to hand, and it gave me
pleasure to hear thee is doing so well; and I hope it may continue
until thy return to our city.

In answer to thy inquiry about my parents, I am glad to say they
are both enjoying good health. Father is still busy by times, with
the old lady's estate, but it does not, as yet, seem to be near a
final settlement.

It is true that Mr. Richards has received her money, as it was for
services rendered to aunt Betsey--not from having been left any
thing in the will. But all the legatees, of which thee is one, will
have to wait until the whole business is concluded. It has been
very trying and tedious to all concerned; but I hope, ere long, the
right thing will be brought about, and thee will then receive what
is thy due. Judge Jones has been appointed in J. Bouvier's
place--is an able and excellent man, and will no doubt do all he
can to hasten the settlement of the whole affair.

Thy friend,

D. T. HOWELL.

American House, March 5th, 1852.

EDITOR OF THE REPUBLIC:--

We have been favoured this afternoon, together with some ladies,
with a private musical entertainment by Miss E. T. Greenfield,
known as the "Black Swan"--and words would fail us to do her voice
justice, even were she _white_.

Never having heard the renowned Madame Goldschmidt, we can draw no
comparison between the Swan and her fairer Swedish rival; but
however she may compare with her, allow us to say she has the most
varied and powerful voice it has yet been our fortune to hear. She
gave us first the arietta, "Where are now the Hopes I've
cherished?" accompanying her voice with the guitar--which, as well
as the harp and piano, she uses very skilfully. This song, though
easy of execution, is charmingly sweet and plaintive--and how it
could be better performed than upon this occasion, it is difficult
to imagine. Every heart present was thrilled with her tones, which
flowed from her lips like gems.

Next we were favoured with a song in bass, accompanied with the
piano--in which a male voice was so closely imitated as to defy the
most acute ear to make it anything else; a male voice, however,
highly refined--deeper, stronger, sweeter--than ever before fell
upon our ear. The feelings of all present were delightfully
stirred,--even the atmosphere in which we sat seemed trembling
with emotion.

These were followed by other songs, enough to exhibit the vocal
charms and operatic talent of this wonderful cantatrice, in all
their strength and compass. And we feel it due to say (though
without pretending to rigid musical criticism,) while the voice of
the Swan is equal to the loftiest pitch of the soaring lark, and
the lowest reach of bass tone, there seems no lack of sweetness and
distinctness--so often wanting or underrated in musical
entertainments.

A word as to the _personnel_ of the "Swan." She is robust and
fleshy, with a full and healthy chest; but with very uncomely
features. She is intelligent, however, and unassuming--is free
without boldness--and kind and attentive to all who visit her. She
was born in Mississippi. Her father was an African, her mother a
Choctaw Indian woman, and she seems, both in features and
disposition, to show her compound origin. When quite a child she
fell into the hands of quite a wealthy Welsh lady, by whom she was
raised in Philadelphia--with whom she ate and slept for twenty-one
years, and who, dying, bequeathed her a handsome property, which is
yet contested at law. Her family name is Taylor, but in honour of
her mistress she takes the name of Greenfield.

We are told it is her purpose to sail for Europe sometime in June
or July next, to avail herself of the best instruction which can be
obtained in cultivating her extraordinary vocal gifts.

The statement that Miss Greenfield is the daughter of a man in
Buffalo, who "formerly lived in Mississippi, and served as
hostler," and that "Miss G. came north and married a fellow yclept
Green," is all false.--If any person should have been led to
believe otherwise, the following letters will be sufficient to
undeceive them:

N. W. corner of Mulberry and Tenth Street, Philadelphia,
11th month 5th, 1851.

I have known Elizabeth Greenfield for more than fifteen years,
during most of which time, she resided near to me with a worthy and
benevolent friend of mine, the late Elizabeth Greenfield; through
whose liberality she was kindly supported and educated.

In the course of a professional attendance of some years on
Elizabeth's family, I had reason to be convinced that she continued
to stand well in the estimation of her aged friend. To the best of
my information, her conduct and deportment since, have been such as
to merit the esteem of those who know her in this city.

Signed,

THEOPHILUS E. BEESLEY, M. D.

Philadelphia, 11th month 8th, 1852.

I have known Eliza Greenfield many years; she came to this city
from Mississippi with her late Mistress Elizabeth Greenfield, when
a child; by whom she was much esteemed, and who has left her a
legacy.--I know her to be a free woman, respectable and
intelligent.

JOSEPH HOWELL.

Philadelphia, Nov. 17th, 1851.

This is to certify, that I have known Elizabeth T. Greenfield for
many years, and am happy to bear testimony to her worth as a woman,
and her merits as a singer.

She was brought up from a child by Mrs. Greenfield, a wealthy widow
lady from Mississippi, with whom she remained until her death, and
was ever treated by her with confidence and affection.

From the will of Mrs. Greenfield, Elizabeth derives an income
sufficient to enable her to resign all occupation, save that
pertaining to her profession as a singer.

Her associations in life have ever been with the most respectable,
and most particularly in connexion with the families of Mrs.
Greenfield's friends, who esteemed her as an unobtrusive and
excellent person.

She now seeks public favour as a singer, and, although almost
entirely self-taught, possesses wonderful power of voice, and
sweetness of tone--and is well worthy the patronage of all lovers
of music. To such we heartily recommend her, trusting that her
merits may meet their reward.

MRS. JOHN B. BISPHAM.

Philadelphia, Nov. 18th, 1851.

From my long and personal acquaintance with the subject of the
annexed short sketch I accord fully with all contained therein.

MRS. ALFRED M. COLLINS.

I feel great pleasure in stating I have known Miss Greenfield since
she was a year old; and knew Mrs. Elizabeth Greenfield, valued her
as a truly deserving and good person--always correct in her
deportment, and worthy of respect and confidence. All Mrs.
Greenfield's friends can bear testimony to this truth. All my
family wish her success wherever she goes, in this, her musical
profession.

Signed,

J. E. TEVIS,

Phil. Nov. 18, 1851.

No. 410 West Walnut Street.

The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio.

The Black Swan is to be in Cleveland on the 26th. The _Plain Dealer_ man, says an exchange, is so excited about it that he is turning all sorts of _colours_. "O. S. Journal." Speaking of colours, we own up to something of a mixture, having been born GRAY, but the "True Democrat" says that _coloured_ people are a leetle ahead of white people.

Plain Dealer, March 26, 1852.

The advent of the Black Swan was the signal for prolonged applause. She is a woman of graceful stature, with a face of intelligence and gentleness, modest and tasteful in her dress, and an easy carriage. She looks confidently to the audience, as if trusting to their unbiassed judgment. Her first song, "Sweetly o'er my Senses Stealing," gives a fair idea of her flexibility and tone. They are truly astonishing. She glides from note to note with the utmost ease; as trippingly as most of our _prima donnas_. But compass of voice, the most desirable quality in vocal music, is the distinctive feature of her style. Here she is fully at home--as evinced in that charming ballad where she accompanied herself on the piano. Her voice here was masculine and rich--and at the same time soft--devoid of that burr with which most _bona fide_ male voices are encumbered. She sang in six pieces, was applauded in each, and thrice triumphantly _encored_. We heard but one opinion of the entertainment--that of unqualified delight.

Milwaukie Daily Sentinel, April 19, 1852.

The Telegraph and press, for some time past, have been busy in chronicling the musical triumphs of the Black Swan, and in noting her progress Westward. Last week she sang to crowded and delighted audiences, in Detroit, Chicago, Kenosha, and Racine. To-night she sings at Gardner's Hall, in this city. She comes here heralded by a reputation which will of itself draw a full house. That those who attend will enjoy the entertainment, will be readily inferred from the following notice in Chicago, copied from the Journal of that city:

"To say they were gratified is not enough. If expression of countenance and repeated applause, more than we ever witnessed upon a similar occasion in this city, mean anything, they were surprised and delighted. Not, perhaps, with the artistic skill she manifested, but the wonderful power, sweetness, and compass of her voice. It was like a flute, a clarion, an organ, and yet it was more--a splendid human voice.

"Her style is simple and unaffected. She is guiltless of all the trickery of the professed and trained Vocalist; but sings as she feels it; as she thinks it should be sung; and though not skilled in the quibbles and nomenclature of "the art divine," we are satisfied she thinks right. With a complexion not Circassian, and a figure not altogether a model for sculptors, she has drawn together here an audience--has charmed them, and all with the magic of a voice."

Milwaukie Sentinel, April, 1852.

What shall we say? That we were delighted and surprised? All who were present know that, from their own feelings. We can only say, that we have never heard a voice like hers,--one that, with such ease, and with such absence of all effort, could range from the highest to the lowest notes. After singing the first song, she was called back, when she sat down to the piano, and commenced, "When Stars are in the Quiet Sky," we almost imagined, at first, that Geo. Baker, with his heavy bass voice, had broken forth somewhere in the vicinity. But what was our surprise to discover that those low, yet heavy and powerful notes, proceeded from the same person who just before had been singing with the highest, clearest notes of a woman. Thus it was throughout. It seemed as though to sing was as natural to her as to the bird; and she poured forth melody and music without being obliged to use those desperate and convulsive efforts that some do. She was received with the most rapturous applause, which in some of the songs broke forth at the end of every verse. This was especially the case when she sang "If a Body meet a Body," &c., when it seemed as though they could not sufficiently testify their pleasure.

Professor Becht is a most correct and finished player on the piano; and we must say, that Mr. Schmittroth made more music than we ever heard before in scientific fiddling.

Rochester, May 6, 1852.

All the lovers of music in Rochester will be glad to learn that Miss Greenfield intends to give a concert in Corinthian Hall on Monday next. This gifted songstress has been having a series of very successful concerts in Ohio, and other States, and we predict for her a large audience on Monday. The magnificent quality of her voice, its great power, flexibility, and compass; her self-taught genius, energy, and perseverance, combine to render Miss Greenfield an object of uncommon interest to musicians.

We have been spell-bound by the ravishing tones of Patti, Sontag, Malibran, and Grisi; we have heard the wondrous warblings of "_the Nightingale_;" and we have listened with delight to the sweet melodies of the fair daughter of Erin; but we hesitate not to assert that, with one year's tuition from the world-famed Emanuel Garcia, Miss Greenfield would not only compare favourably with any of the distinguished artists above named, but incomparably excel them all.

We hoped, ere this, to hear of Miss Greenfield proceeding to England. Queen Victoria is a thorough judge of music, and a kind and generous patron to musicians,--Miss Greenfield's complexion would not bar her entrance to Buckingham Palace, nor would it shock the nerves of the most delicate lady of the court there. The _Black Swan should sail to Europe_.

The Globe, Toronto, May 12-15th, 1852.

Any one who went to the concert of Miss Greenfield on Thursday last, expecting to find that he had been deceived by the puffs of the American newspapers, must have found himself most agreeably disappointed.

Mr. Becht, the pianist of the party, commenced the evening with a very brilliant performance, which showed that his talents, if not of the very first rank, nearly approached to that point. He has a very considerable share of taste, but his _forte_ passages were the finest, and were warmly applauded. After he had retired there was a general hush of expectation to see the entrance of the vocalist of the evening, and presently there appeared a lady of a decidedly dark colour, rather inclined to an _embonpoint_, and with African formation of face. She advanced calmly to the front of the platform, and curtised very gracefully to the audience. There was a moment of pause, and the assembly anxiously listened for the first notes. They were quite sufficient. The amazing power of the voice, the flexibility and the ease of execution took the hearers by surprise, and the singer was hardly allowed to finish the verse ere she was greeted with the most enthusiastic plaudits, which continued for some time. The higher passages of the air were given with clearness and fulness, indicating a soprano voice of great power. The song was encored, and Miss Greenfield came back, took her seat at the piano, and began, to the astonishment of the audience, a different air in a deep and very clear bass or barytone voice, which she maintained throughout, without any very great appearance of effort or without any breaking! She can, in fact, go as low as Lablache, and as high as Jenny Lind, a power of voice perfectly astonishing. It is said she can strike thirty-one full clear notes, and we could readily believe it. After the surprise had subsided, there was time to find out the errors and defects. It must be confessed that Miss Greenfield has a very heedless way of throwing her beautiful notes about, has far from perfect command over them, and wants the knowledge of ornamental points, which can only be given by instruction from the best masters. There were plenty evidences that it was not from lack of ability to understand what was required, that these defects existed. The introduction of the deeper voice in the treble songs was a singularity, but was also an unpleasing offence against the ear.

Miss Greenfield is said to have great facility in acquiring the knowledge of music, and will certainly under proper tuition become distinguished.

The company to-night perform in Hamilton. We hope on their return we may have another opportunity of listening to Miss Greenfield's wonderful strains, and Messrs. Becht and Schmittroth's excellent instrumentalization.

Auburn, New York, May 21st, 1852.

This evening the citizens of Auburn are to have the pleasure of witnessing the vocal powers of the Black Swan. It is not a year since this candidate for public patronage made her appearance in the concert room, but yet she has won a reputation that everywhere secures her crowded houses. Her recent tour in the western States was eminently successful, and her concerts were referred to in the papers, as being equal in interest to those given by the most celebrated vocalists of the day. The entertainment this evening will be given at Markham Hall.

Auburn, May 22d, 1852.

We have no hesitation in saying that, but for the prejudice which exists against _caste_, she would attain great eminence. We trust she will succeed. Mr. Schmittroth, the violinist, displays great musical capacity and taste; but we are surprised that so perfect an artist should trust his success to so imperfect an instrument. Mr. Becht, the pianist, is a man of talent, and has great command of his instrument.

Syracuse, May 24th, 1852.

Notwithstanding the many distinguished, and justly celebrated songstresses now in our country, the Black Swan continues to be heard with great favour, by the musical portion of the community.

Utica, May 26th, 1852.

Those who failed to hear this extraordinary vocalist on her previous visit to Utica, will not fail to gratify their curiosity at this time.--Miss Greenfield has now had the advantage of several months' training and practice, and of appearing at concerts in most of the principal northern cities. Her natural endowments surpass any thing in the way of human voice we ever heard, and her singing is pleasing as well as astonishing. She is now accompanied by Becht, the pianist, and Schmittroth, the violinist, artists, as we hear, of talent and merit from the city of New York, and occupying the first position in their profession.

Watertown, May 28th, 1852.

This celebrated Cantatrice, on her return from a very successful tour in the West, gives one concert in this city, in Malcolm Hall, this evening. The Swan has sung in our city on a previous occasion, and her merits are pretty generally known--though we are assured that she has made great proficiency since that time. Malcolm Hall ought to be crowded this evening.

Ogdensburg, June 2, 1852.

The "Swan's" second concert, which came off last evening, was quite as largely attended as the first; and we noticed, particularly, that the patronage of those who attended on the former evening was largely drawn upon.

The same manifestations of delight at the performance of the several _artists_, were apparent with the audience of last evening, and many who had come to listen for the second time, were inspired with a more accurate appreciation of the "Swan's" merits. The troupe proceed hence to Burlington. She goes to Europe soon for the purpose of receiving instruction from the best masters.

Burlington, June 4, 1852.

The concert at Concert Hall, last evening, delighted one of the largest and most select audiences ever assembled in Burlington. Miss Greenfield was received with much enthusiasm. It was, altogether, the best concert ever given in this place. We learn that to-night is positively her last in Burlington.

Greenfield, June 21, 1852.

Altogether the most artistic performance in the sphere of music, we recollect ever having attended in this town, was given on Thursday evening by Miss Elizabeth Greenfield, alias the "Black Swan." Her voice possesses wonderful compass, is very rich, and is skilfully trained. She is a most surprising vocalist, considered in whatever respect. The violin performance, by Mr. Schmittroth, brought out tones more astonishing than people in general supposed pine, catgut and rosin capable of producing.

The whole entertainment was in the highest degree respectable, and worthy of any audience in the world.

Brattleboro, Vt., June 23, 1852.

The "Black Swan," or Miss Elizabeth Greenfield, sang in Mr. Fisk's beautiful new Hall on Wednesday evening last, to a large and intelligent audience.

We had seen frequent notices in our exchanges, and were already prepossessed in favour of the abilities and life purposes of our sable sister; but after all we must say that our expectations of her success are greater than before we had heard her sing, and conversed with her in her own private room. She is not pretty, but plain for a coloured woman; still she is gifted with a beauty of soul which makes her countenance agreeable in conversation; and in singing, especially when her social nature is called into activity, there is a grace and beauty in her manner which soon make those unaccustomed to her race forget all but the melody. We learned from her that she was trained by an old lady belonging to the society of Friends. Her mistress, being a Friend, Elizabeth took lessons in music privately. With only her wages to aid her, she was rapidly acquiring knowledge in music in imitation of her mistress' young relatives, when some one maliciously informed her mistress, with the expectation of seeing an injunction laid upon her self-culture. The old lady sent for Elizabeth, who came trembling into her presence, expecting to be reprimanded for her pursuit of an art forbidden by the Friends' discipline. "Elizabeth," said the old lady, "is it true that thee is learning music, and can play upon the guitar?" "It is true," she replied. "Go, bring thy guitar and let me hear thee sing." Elizabeth did so, and when she had concluded her song was astonished to hear her mistress say, "Elizabeth, whatever thee wants, thee shall have." From that time her mistress was the patroness of her earnest efforts for skill and knowledge in musical science.

Nature has done more for Miss Greenfield, than any musical prodigy we have met, and art has marred her execution less.

From New England Miss Greenfield returned to Buffalo to enjoy a season of rest and refreshment.

She remained here several months, during which time she received two definite proposals to accept an engagement. One to travel for three months in the United States,--the other, which she accepted, to proceed directly to Europe.

Cleveland, Dec. 16, 1852.

MISS GREENFIELD:--Dear Madam,--I take the liberty to address a few
lines to you on the subject of giving concerts. I have understood
you to have no engagement at present, and that you would be glad to
make an engagement with a person competent to manage. I have had
considerable experience in the business, and feel myself competent
to take the management of business of this nature. I have travelled
with Jenny Lind during her engagement with P. T. Barnum. I have
also been connected with Mr. Barnum for several years; and if you
feel disposed to engage with me I would refer you to Mr. Barnum. He
is now at his residence in Bridgeport, Conn.

I should propose to travel through such portions of the States as
you have not visited, and should feel disposed to commence in New
York. Mr. Barnum is a relation of mine, and I could give a series
of concerts in New York in his name; at least I feel quite
confident I could do so. I am a man of family, and am living in
this city. I am acquainted with Major Dunn, Col. Wood, and slightly
with Mr. Ladd, formerly of your troupe.

Please let me hear from you by return of mail, and oblige,

Yours,

E. T. N.

Cleveland, Feb. 23, 1853.

MR. HOWARD:--Dear Sir,--If Miss Greenfield would accept an
engagement for three months, to travel in the interior of this, and
adjoining states, I should like to give it a trial.

If we undertake it and are successful, I should like to give a
series of concerts in New York, after the opening of the World's
Fair--and probably make a second engagement. Please consult with
Miss Greenfield, and let me know her mind. If she accepts, every
thing will be done to make it pleasant for her. I will come to
Buffalo and settle preliminaries on hearing from you.

I have letters of recommendation from Mr. Barnum, which I do not
deem necessary to send you, as you saw Mr. Barnum in New York so
recently.

Truly yours,

E. T. N.

The second overture she accepted, and the following agreement was drawn up.

(COPY.)

This agreement made the sixteenth day of Feb. 1853, between ----,
of the city of New York, of the first part, and Miss Elizabeth T.
Greenfield, now of the city of Buffalo, of the second part,
Witnesseth;

That the said parties of the first and second parts, do hereby
agree, each with the other, as follows.

The party of the second part hereby agrees to perform a musical
tour throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland, and upon the
continent of Europe, and the free States of the United States, and
deliver concerts, public and private, at such times and
places--when her health will permit--as shall be directed by the
party of the first part, not exceeding three times in any one week;
and she agrees that she will, as far as possible, strive to give
satisfaction in her concerts.

The party of the first part is to have the management and direction
of the business, and every thing relating thereto. He is to advance
all the money which may be required in carrying on the enterprise.
He is also to advance to the party of the second part such money as
she may require for her own individual expenses. He is also to have
the direction of the musical instruction of the party of the second
part, and at all times to treat her respectfully, and provide
suitable board, lodging, and travelling accommodations for herself
and attendant.

A competent secretary shall be employed by the party of the first
part, whose business it shall be to keep true accounts of the
receipts of money at such concerts, and of all the expenditures
made on account of the enterprise, which accounts shall at all
times be open to the inspection of both parties.

No agents are to be employed in the said business except such as
shall be specially attached to the troupe, and such as shall be
necessary to promote the objects of the enterprise, unless it shall
be considered for the interest of both parties to employ additional
assistance, in which event the compensation of such additional
assistance shall be paid as a general charge.

The party of the second part is to have the privilege of selecting
her own maid, whose services and expenses are to be paid out of the
moneys received from such concerts, such wages not exceeding six
dollars a month, in case she shall select her own maid.

All the expenses incurred in the said business, including the
furnishing of such wardrobes as shall be mutually agreed upon--the
individual expenses of both the parties--the musical instruction of
the party of the second part, and the expenses of the party of the
second part back to New York, are to be paid out of the receipts of
such concerts, and the overplus is to be divided between the
parties as follows: to the party of the first part four fifths: to
the party of the second part one fifth. The amount which shall at
any time be due to the party of the second part for her share in
the profits shall be paid to her on demand.

In case of the death of the party of the first part before the
expiration of the time herein limited, the party of the second part
is to go on in the same manner under the direction and management
of his legal representatives, but in all respects under the
conditions of this agreement, and such legal representative is to
perform all the acts and things which the party of the first part
is to perform under the conditions of the agreement.

In case of the death of the party of the second part, this
agreement is then to terminate, and the party of the first part
shall render a true and correct account of the receipts and
expenditures relating to the said business, and pay over whatever
money shall remain in his hands belonging to the party of the
second part, to Hiram E. Howard, now of the city of Buffalo, whose
receipt therefor shall be binding upon her heirs and personal
representatives.

And it is mutually agreed by and between the said parties that they
will, during the time herein limited, unless prevented by illness,
or other inevitable accident, diligently and faithfully devote
himself and herself in and about the said business, and the
management thereof, and the carrying on the same, and the affairs
and business thereof, for the promoting the same for the best
advantage and benefit of both the said parties.

This agreement is to commence on the tenth day of March next, and
terminate on the first of May one thousand eight hundred and
fifty-five; and the said party of the second part agrees to be in
the city of New York on the said tenth day of March next--health
permitting--and subject to the direction of the said party of the
first part, as before mentioned.

In case the party of the first part shall for any reason wish at
any time, after they shall arrive in Europe, to dissolve this
agreement, he is at liberty to do so upon conditions that he shall
pay her the balance that may then be due to her, and shall in
addition thereto, pay her a sum of money sufficient to pay the
expenses of herself and servant back to the city of New York in a
respectable manner.

Witness the hands and seals of the parties the day and year first
above written.

(Signed) and executed by GEO. DAVIS, } witness, ------ ------ (L. S.) Buffalo. } ELIZABETH T. GREENFIELD (L. S.)

State of New York, Buffalo, Mayor's Office, April 1, 1853.

I do hereby certify that a contract, of which the foregoing is a
copy, is deposited for safe keeping with Hiram E. Howard, Esq., of
this city, by Miss Greenfield.

In witness thereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the
seal of the city of Buffalo the day and the year last above
written.

ELI COOK, _Mayor of the city of Buffalo_.

At this period she received the following communication:

Buffalo, February 23, 1853.

Having learned that Miss Greenfield is about to visit Europe on a
musical tour, as well as with a view to the artistic improvement of
her vocal powers, the undersigned take this opportunity of
tendering to her a complimentary benefit prior to her departure, as
a testimonial in favour of her unprecedented natural powers of
voice, and also as an earnest of the due appreciation by our fellow
citizens, generally, of the liberal aid rendered by her on a former
occasion, to one of the most worthy objects of charity in our city;
and we trust that the announcement of a concert by Miss Greenfield,
will be responded to by a full house on the occasion.

H. E. Howard, James Hollister, Geo. Coit, M. J. Cadwallader, Henry
W. Rogers, G. B. Rich, A. J. Rich, E. S. Skudding, E. P. Beals, Ira
Osburi, Matthew Wilson, Nelson Randall, G. S. Hazard, H. B. Potter,
A. Ramsey, S. S. Gawson, Jos. G. Mastra, Samuel F. Pratt, C. F. S.
Thomas, Hiram Barton, H. J. Impsay, Geo. W. Houghton, James
Wadsworth, William Webster, Geo. C. White, Wm. Fisk, Edwin Thomas,
Wm. Carland, Geo. Davis, Cyrus P. Lee, G. W. Rounds, T. M.
Parmalee, Lewis C. Hodges, H. N. Loomis, H. C. Walker, C. E. Young,
L. R. Plimpton, Jas. L. Reynolds, Wm. A. Seaver.

The concert took place the 7th of March, 1853. The success of this concert may be inferred from the following note:

Buffalo, March 8, 1853.

To MISS ELIZABETH T. GREENFIELD:--

I was at your concert last night, and cannot withhold my meed of
praise, or refrain from mentioning to you the immense delight it
afforded me to hear so truly a magnificent voice, as that which the
good Creator has bestowed upon you. It did indeed come "sweetly
o'er my senses stealing." If I was enchanted with your "Entreat me
not," and enraptured with the aria from "Garcia," how perfectly
amazed was I at the basso of the Rover's song! I trembled for you,
thinking every moment that you should fail; while at the same time
I knew that one of the chief charms of your voice, is the perfect
ease and freedom from effort, which you appeared to possess.

There is one thing which Miss Greenfield must allow a stranger to
suggest--and it is on the subject of her dress. The dress itself
was handsome, but why wear that _white lace bertha_? Some bright
rich colour would suit so much better--or something darkly
delicate; indeed, before a European audience, I think Miss
Greenfield might adopt the _Oriental style_ of dress with the best
effect.

Hoping, then, for Miss Greenfield the utmost success in her
projected European tour, I remain her obedient well-wisher,

G.

Laden with all these good wishes and hopes, Miss G. bade farewell to her Buffalo friends and proceeded to New York city, preparatory to her embarkation.--In New York Miss Greenfield had many apprehensions. At Buffalo she had become acquainted with Madam Alboni, who greatly admired her voice, and gave her many useful instructions. Upon her arrival in this city she learned that Madam Alboni had an engagement at the "Niblo Gardens." Some friends desired to procure for her a private box at the Italian Opera, where she might have the pleasure and advantage of hearing, undisturbed, this famous songstress. But it was refused her.

Nevertheless, her first concert took place at the Metropolitan Hall, on Thursday, March 31st, 1853, in the presence of four thousand people.--Subsequently the following publication was placed in her hand:

New York, April 2d, 1853.

MISS ELIZABETH T. GREENFIELD:--

_Madam_,--By the suggestion of many enthusiastic admirers of your
talents, I have been induced to address you on the subject of
another and second concert, prior to your departure for Europe.

Your advent musical in "Gotham" has not been idly heralded among
the true lovers of song, and admirers of exalted genius; of which
your unprecedented success on Wednesday evening must have
sufficiently convinced you; while all are eloquent in the
commendation of your superior powers, and engaging method.

Confiding, Madam, in your reported magnanimity and generosity to
oblige, I will divest myself of tedious circumlocution, and
fervently exhort you to make a second exhibition of your skill;
which, there can be no doubt, will be highly successful to you, and
as interesting to your admirers.

THE PUBLIC.

Miss Greenfield embarked from New York in a British steamer, for England, April 6th, 1853, and arrived at Liverpool the 16th of April, 1853; rested over the Sabbath, and proceeded Monday morning to London, in which metropolis she became safely domiciled on the evening of the same day.

But painful trials awaited her from a quarter the most unexpected. The individual with whom she had drawn up the contract for this musical tour was unfaithful to his promises, and she found herself abandoned, without money and without friends, in a strange country.

She had been told Lord Shaftsbury was one of the great good men of England, and she resolved to call upon him in person and entreat an interview,--his lordship immediately granted her request, listened patiently to her history, and directly gave her a letter of introduction to his lawyer.

The following letter from one of her early friends in Buffalo, will relate some of the incidents of her trial:

Buffalo, July 29th, 1853.

Friend Elizabeth,--I have just received your letter of the 25th,
and we are all pleased to hear of your good health and improvement
in music. I have received two letters before from you, the first
with your likeness, and the other with the box of presents for
Julia Palmer, and the children, all of whom were much pleased with
them.

My health has not been good this summer, and when I have thought of
writing to you, my mind has been so confused that I found it
impossible to say on paper what I wanted to. I know you must think
strange of it, but I know, too, that you will not think we have
forgotten you, or that we have ceased to feel a deep interest in
your welfare, and future success.

I think Mr. ---- is not acting right by you, and I wish you had
some disinterested friend to stand by you and make him do as he
ought. I received a letter yesterday from Mr. Spooner. He says
Antonio has returned to New York, and tells bad stories of ----

If they are true, you ought to call him to account, ---- Antonio
says ---- would not advance you money to pay your doctor's
bill,--this he had no right to refuse, whether you have made money
or not; and if he refuses to advance you any thing which you
require for your health, comfort, or respectability, he breaks the
contract, and you are at liberty to do better if you can.

It would do no good for me to write to ----, and it might do you
harm. When you left New York I expected Mrs. Howard's brothers
would be in England when you arrived there, and I calculated upon
their selecting for you some person to act as your friendly adviser
in case of need; but they returned earlier than I expected, and
arrived in New York about the time you landed at Liverpool. Under
these circumstances I see no way for you but to do right yourself,
and trust that some distinguished friend will be raised up to you,
who has influence and discretion, and who will be willing to tell
you what is best, and will stand up as your protector and defender
in case of need; and it seems to me, that such a one can be found
among your numerous patrons. I know well your honest heart, and I
know too that you would rather suffer wrong than do wrong; but it
is necessary to you that you be respected, and if ---- will not give
you money for your necessary expenses he is cheating you; and if he
cheats you now, he will continue to do so.

Now, I would advise you to select some person in whom you have
confidence--show him this letter, and then do just what he shall
advise. You will see _by the contract_ that ---- is bound to let you
have money, for all necessary expenses, whether you _make_ money or
not; and he is bound to keep a secretary, whose business--among
other things--is to show you at all times how your account with
Mr. ---- stands, as regards receipts from concerts, &c., and
expenses paid out for the same. If you cannot make ---- do this, I
would advise you to leave him any way.

In selecting a friend to advise you, be careful and not select one
who has any interest in deceiving you, or who would advise you to
do any dishonourable act towards Mr. ---- or any one else; for I
would rather see you return a beggar than with the name of
dishonour or meanness of any kind. If ---- acts fairly by you, do
the same to him, whether you make money or not;--and this I know
you will do, if you can determine what is right.

My health is now improving, and I feel quite myself again. Mrs.
Howard and the children have been quite well since you left, and
your baby is growing finely. It begins to say pa, pa! and ma ma!
and stands by the sofa and chairs; but you won't know it when you
return, for its hair is losing its curl and becoming somewhat the
colour of my own. We still call her Greenfield, although some of
Mrs. Howard's would-be friends are much _shocked_ at it. However,
Mrs. Howard says you took good care of it when she was not able to;
and she thinks the name just as good as the care you gave it. Sarah
is improving rapidly in her music, and both she and Mary are making
good progress at school. Monsieur and Madame St. Kenney often ask
about you, as well as many other of your old friends.

You must keep yourself prudent and discreet, and you will find in
England many who will not see you wronged. But I trust that ----
will do right by you, and that you will not have occasion to tax
the good offices of any kind friends, that may be made by you while
away from your native land. Mrs. Howard and the children send their
kindest remembrance and regards to yourself and Anna. Write to me
every week, that I may know how you are getting along; and, as my
health is improving, I will write to you as often as I think it
will be of benefit to you. Truly, your friend,

H. E. HOWARD.

P. S. Should you have any trouble with ---- and need the original of
your contract, I can send it to you by some of the steamers in a
short time.

H. E. H.

It may, perhaps, be considered a providential concurrence that Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe was in London this same time with Miss Greenfield. We notice in her "Sunny Memories," under the date of May 6th, the following remarks, "A good many calls this morning. Among others, came Miss Greenfield, the (so-called) Black Swan. She appears to be a gentle, amiable, and interesting young person. She was born the slave of a kind mistress, who gave her every thing but education; and, dying, left her free with a little property. The property she lost by some legal quibble, but she had, like others of her race, a passion for music, and could sing and play by ear. A young lady, discovering her taste, gave her a few lessons. She has a most astonishing voice. C. sat down to the piano and played while she sung. Her voice runs through a compass of three octaves and a fourth. This is four notes more than Malibran's. She sings a most magnificent tenor, with such a breadth and volume of sound, that with your back turned, you could not imagine it to be a woman. While she was there, Mrs. S. C. Hall, of the Irish Sketches, was announced. I told her of Miss Greenfield, and she took great interest in her and requested her to sing something for her. C. played the accompaniment, and she sung Old Folks at Home, first in a soprano voice, and then in a tenor or barytone. Mrs. Hall was amazed and delighted, and entered at once into her cause. She said she would call with me and present her to Sir George Smart, who is at the head of the Queen's musical establishment, and, of course, the acknowledged leader of London musical judgment."

In the course of the day I had a note from Mrs. Hall, saying, that as Sir George Smart was about leaving town, she had not waited for me, but had taken Miss Greenfield to him herself. She writes that he was really astonished and charmed at the wonderful weight, compass, and power of her voice. He was also as well pleased with the mind in her singing, and her quickness in doing and catching all that he told her. Should she have a public opportunity to perform, he offered to hear her rehearse beforehand. Mrs. Hall says, "This is a great deal for him, whose hours are all marked with gold."

Again, Mrs. Stowe says, "To-day the Duchess of Sutherland called with the Duchess of Argyle. Miss Greenfield happened to be present, and I begged leave to present her, giving a slight sketch of her history. I was pleased with the kind and easy affability with which the Duchess of Sutherland conversed with her, betraying by no inflection of voice, and nothing in her air or manner, the great lady talking with the poor girl. She asked all her questions with as much delicacy, and made her request to hear her sing with as much consideration and politeness, as if she had been addressing any one in her own circle. She seemed much pleased with her singing, and remarked that she should be happy to give her an opportunity of performing in Stafford House, as soon as she should be a little relieved of a heavy cold which seemed to oppress her at present. This, of course, will be decisive of her favour in London. The Duchess is to let us know when the arrangement is completed.

"I never so fully realized," continues Mrs. Stowe, "that there really is no natural prejudice against colour in the human mind. Miss Greenfield is a dark mulattress, of a pleasing and gentle face, though by no means handsome. She is short and thick-set, with a chest of great amplitude, as one would think on hearing her tenor. I have never seen in any of the persons to whom I have presented her, the least indications of suppressed surprise or disgust, any more than we should exhibit on the reception of a dark-complexioned Spaniard or Portuguese.

"Miss Greenfield bears her success with much quietness and good sense."

Her grace, the Duchess of Sutherland, afterward became her ever unfailing supporter and adviser.

It became painfully necessary for Miss Greenfield to take the procedure expressed in the following legal notice, (although the bare presentation of the document did not take place until Jan. 12, 1854.)

/* NIND To MR. ----, 29 George Street, Hanover Square, London: */

Sir:--The salary of five pounds per week, payable by you to me
under our agreement, bearing date the twenty-first day of October,
one thousand eight hundred and fifty-three, being in arrears and
unpaid for more than five weeks last past, (though repeated
applications have been made to you for payment thereof) and the
amount now owing to me by you having been demanded, and default
being made in payment of the same, and there being other breaches
on your part, of the agreement made between us, I do hereby, in
pursuance of the power or authority given to me by the said
agreement, bearing date the twenty-first day of October, eighteen
hundred and fifty-three, and of all other powers and authorities
enabling me thereto, give you notice that I do hereby cancel the
said agreement, bearing date as aforesaid, and also the agreement
dated the sixteenth day of February, one thousand eight hundred and
fifty-three, respectively made between you of the one part and
myself of the other part, and do hereby declare that the said
agreements, respectively, shall be, and become absolutely void on
the giving of this notice to you; but without prejudice to my
rights and remedies for the recovery of any money that may now be
due to me, under or by virtue of the said agreement, or either of
them.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,

ELIZABETH T. GREENFIELD.

The piano forte which previously had been furnished Miss G., to practise upon, was taken from her. The Duchess of Sutherland, upon learning the fact, immediately directed her to select one from Broadwood's. Her grace, from whom good acts seem constantly to emanate, permitted her to choose one valued at sixty guineas.

Arrangements being completed for a Concert at the Stafford House, the following announcement at the same time was made to the British public:--

27 Margaret Street, Cavendish Square.

The Black Swan, in appealing to the generosity of the British
public, assures them that the primary object of her visit to Europe
is, to accomplish herself in the science of music, which
professional friends earnestly counsel her to pursue, and which she
embraces _con amore_, with the confident hope that, by the exercise
of her vocal faculties in a more cultured form, she may be able to
achieve the great object of her life. She is sensible of the
philanthropic spirit of the people of Great Britain, and feels
confident that they will receive her appeal with that kindness and
forbearance that ever characterizes them in the cause of true
humanity.

The Black Swan, therefore, has the honour of informing the
nobility, gentry, and public, that she will shortly appear at a
grand concert (the particulars of which will be announced) under
distinguished patronage.

ELIZABETH T. GREENFIELD.

London, May, 1853.

We cannot refrain from quoting Mrs. Stowe's description of the concert, after dinner at the Stafford house.

"The concert room was the brilliant and picturesque hall I have
before described to you. It looked more picture like and dreamy
than ever. The piano was on the flat stairway just below the broad
central landing. It was a grand piano, standing end outward, and
perfectly banked up among hot house flowers, so that only its
gilded top was visible. Sir George Smart presided. The choicest of
the _élite_ were there. Ladies in demi-toilet and bonneted. Miss
Greenfield stood among the singers on the staircase, and excited a
pathetic murmur among the audience. She is not handsome, but looked
very well. She has a pleasing dark face, wore a black velvet
head-dress, and white cornelian ear-rings, a black moire antique
silk, made high in the neck, with white lace falling sleeves, and
white gloves. A certain gentleness of manner and self-possession,
the result of the universal kindness shown her, sat well upon her.
Chevalier Bunsen, the Prussian Ambassador, sat by me. He looked at
her with much interest. "Are the race often as good looking?" he
said. I said, "She is not handsome compared with many, though I
confess she looks uncommonly well to-day." The singing was
beautiful; six of the most cultivated glee singers of London sang,
among other things, "Spring's delights are now returning," and
"Where the bee sucks, there lurk I." The Duchess said, "These glees
are peculiarly English." Miss Greenfield's turn for singing now
came, and there was profound attention. Her voice, with its keen,
searching fire, its penetrating vibrant quality, its "_timbre_," as
the French have it, cut its way like a Damascus blade to the heart.
It was the more touching from the occasional rusticities and
artistic defects, which showed that she had received no culture
from art. She sung the ballad, "Old folks at home," giving one
verse in the soprano, and another in the tenor voice. As she stood
partially concealed by the piano, Chevalier Bunsen thought that the
tenor part was performed by one of the gentlemen. He was perfectly
astonished when he discovered that it was by her. This was
rapturously encored. Between the parts, Sir George took her to the
piano, and tried her voice by skips, striking notes here and there
at random, without connexion, from D in alto to A first space in
bass clef; she followed with unerring precision, striking the sound
nearly at the same instant his finger touched the key. This brought
out a burst of applause."

Lord Shaftsbury was there; he came and spoke to us after the
concert. Speaking of Miss Greenfield, he said, "I consider the use
of these halls for the encouragement of an outcast race, a
consecration. This is the true use of wealth and splendour when
they are employed to raise up and encourage the despised and
forgotten."