This adaptation of Ludwig Bemelmans' novel doesn't quite come off. Elaine Ryan, the adapter, has been unable to capture the buoyancy of Bemelmans' writing, which derives its charm more from narration than dialogue. Those shreds of the novel which Miss Ryan has selected chronicle the ups and downs of a platonic affair between a lusty Latin-American general and his frigid English "governess," as she chooses to call herself. Two character traits come out of this union to comprise the main comic material, which is seldom funny: the governess' morbid preoccupation with her own death, and the general's sexual appetite. The rest of the play is mainly concerned with establishing the general's love for fine food and all the other things that spell Life.

This script is not a very suitable vehicle for its stars, Frederick March and Florence Eldridge. Mr. March somehow lacks the gusto required of his character, although he is by no means unsatisfactory. And Miss Eldridge has to grapple with a very unrewarding part; she is mainly called upon to interrupt the general's love affairs to moralize about his lust and to arouse his affection by attempting suicide. Two other parts, however, afford rich characterizations for the actresses who play them. Jacqueline Daly is very entertaining as the General's feline, hair-mussing French mistress, and Irene Moore has a great deal of primeval charm as the native girl whom he makes pregnant.

The most impressive part of this production was its sets, designed by Wolfgang Roth. These are always bright and colorful--unlike the play itself.