Frances Abington, an English actress, born about 1731, died in London, March 4, 1815. Her father was a common soldier named Barton. She was employed as a child in running errands, and afterward as a flower girl. Her first appearance as an actress was on the boards of the Haymarket in the character of * Miranda in "The 'Busybody," 1755. She had previously married Mr. Abington, her music master, from whom she separated in a few months. At Dublin she was a great favorite, and when Garrick in 1765 invited her to London, she soon became the first comic actress of the day. She bade adieu to the stage April 12, 1799, and left at her death a legacy to each of the theatrical funds.