An English porcelain mug, early 19th century, printed in black with a profile head and marked ''The Young Roscius'', born September 13th 1791, gilt lined rim and gilded feather grooved handle, 7cm high. William Henry West Betty, also known as the Young Roscius and also called Master Betty (born September 13th 1791, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, died August 24th 1874, London) was an English actor and child prodigy. His debut was in Belfast before he was 12 years old in an English version of Voltaire's 'Zaire'. When he first performed in Covent Garden in 1804 troops were called out to preserve order so great was the crush to obtain admittance. Later he played at Covent Garden and Drury Lane and George III presented him to the Queen. He retired completely in 1824 and lived off his fortune.