Shakespeare of Stratford/The Biographical Facts/Fact 33
XXXIII. JOHN MANNINGHAM’S ANECDOTE OF SHAKESPEARE AND BURBAGE (1602).
From the diary of John Manningham, a barrister of the Middle Temple, London, March 13, 1602. (British Museum, MS. Room.)
Upon a time when Burbage played Richard the Third there was a citizen grew so far in liking with him, that before she went from the play she appointed him to come that night unto her by the name of Richard the Third. Shakespeare, overhearing their conclusion, went before, was entertained and at his game ere Burbage came. Then message being brought that Richard the Third was at the door, Shakespeare caused return to be made that William the Conqueror was before Richard the Third. Shakespeare’s name William.