SARAH BERNHARDT AND HER ADMIRERS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7434, 21 June 1902, Page 3

SARAH BERNHARDT AND HER ADMIRERS.

The divine Sarah has turned the head of several admirers lately. In some cases, a mild form of madness has been the result ; in others, acute insanity has set in, and strait waistcoats have been required. One of the inoffensive maniacs whom Madame Sarah Bernhardt has unwittingly driven to distraction is a railway guard in the South of Prance, who for some time past has written effusive and adoring letters to her every day. The peculiarity of these missives is that in almost every one he expresses to her his heartfelt gratitude for " her last dear letter." From this it would appear that some Theodore Hook among the guard's acquaintances corresponds with him under the name of the actress. ". Among the dangerous lunatics who have lost their reason out of love and admiration for Madame Sarah Bernhardt is a very old man, also living in the impassioned south. At regular 'intervals he becomes violent, swears that he will brain 'whoever dares prevent him from going to meet the lady whom he adores, and has to be put under restraint. . On more than one occasion Madame Sarah Bernhardt has run considerable risk by coming into contact with her demepted admirers. In a church, not long ago, one of these! maniacs — a woman this time — suddenly prostrated herself at the feet of the surprised actress, and, weeping passionately, kissed the hem of Madame Sarah Bernhardt's dress with fervent devotion. Bystanders gently removed the woman. As she was being led away, a long knife dropped from the folds of the ample cloak which she wore. It turned out that she had gone to church with the set purpose of " sending the divine ■ Sarah -straight to Aieaven." Fortunately, her mood changed.