Godwin's review claims that Inchbald's play 'rises above any of her former theatrical essays. The outline of the piece is excellent, and is capable of impressive and exquisite effect'. However, he judges the 'tragic tale' interwoven with the main comic plot to have ''not been equally successful' and accuses Inchbald 'of not obstinately and perseveringly unfolding one idea, till she has placed it in its strongest lights, and suffered it to produce its full effects'. Godwin is also highly critical of the way the piece was acted at Covent Garden: 'the actors, by some fatality, seem not to understand their parts .... we would give to every one that wishes fully to enjoy this comedy, this piece of advice, "Take it with you to your closet."'