[f. the vb.] A bespeaking; esp. the bespeaking of a particular play to be performed; hence, a benefit night, when the actor’s friends and patrons choose the play.
1839. Dickens, Nich. Nick., xxiv. On her bespeak night…. The night of her bespeak. Her benefit night, when her friends and patrons bespeak the play.
1880. Miss Braddon, Just as I am, lii. 347. He had given his bespeak to the theatre, and Mr. Montmorency was to act Claude Melnotte.
