Page:Notes on New Zealand (1892).pdf/246

236 cause in a generous but sometimes indiscriminating fashion; and though excellent men of business, they are frequently duped by alien adventurers in the guise of professors of religion. A man stating that he was the brother of a famous American pugilist, and that he had been a Professor of Athletics, until he was converted, arrived in Christchurch and there hired the theatre, in which he preached every Sunday afternoon and evening. He had a fine presence and a splendid voice, and consequently attracted large audiences, but never forgot to pass the hat round at the close of his services. Soon he was invited