Garrick emerges from this book as one of the most splendid figures of the English 18th century and one of the happiest. He combined an electrifying stage presence with a reputation as a talented theatrical impressario; an ability to lead, inspire and cajole others made the Theatre Royal the theatrical light of its age. Garrick's popularity, together with his financial interest in Drury Lane, gave him security and social standing unequalled by any of his predecessors or contemporaries; he became the intimate of dukes and duchesses, portrait painters and prime ministers, bishops and bluestockings.