"FRANK MELTON'S LUCK."

Auckland Star, Volume XXIII, Issue 89, 14 April 1892, Page 3

"FRANK MELTON'S LUCK."

[By Thos. Cottlk Published by H. Brett,

Auckland.]

••.... The author has produced a very readable book. His characters aro well drawn nnd admirably supported. The interest of the reader is sustained throughout. Of scenes typical of station life. the cattle muster, the pig hunt, and the Christmas party are adtnirubly described; and tho truth, accuracy, and vividness of the depiction given of the gold foyer 'in the good o i ( j mining days,' and of the Hauhau war, which aro the two principal historical incidents woven into tha story, can bo attested by those who took part in thorn. The author neither apologises for tho failings of Now Zealanders, nor does ho praisa in gushing terms what is admirable in them. He simply describes them as they are. He shows how easily a swindling coxscomb like Gro3venor by merely holding himself oufc to be somebody, can dupo them ; how gambling in mining scrip, horse-rucing, etc., can demoralise them, how hospitable they arc, how capable of enjoying amusement, and at the same time, how ready and willing to work, and how self-contained, independent, and happy in their homos. On the whole it may be said the author has fairly accomplished his aim and given a true description of station life in New Zealand/—Extract from review of "Frank Melton's Luck," in "Northern Advocate," December sth, 1891.

" It ie a work of considerable literary pretension—a novel, in facb, with here and there a dash of history in it, to give a tone to the whole. 'Frank Meltons Luck' is all about a new chum's doings near Waneanui in the comparatively early days of North Island civilisation. Ho fails in love —he rides a race—he speculates in gold mines—his path is crossed from time to time by a wrotch of a rival—bub all ends gloriously—and tho book only costs a shilling ! The author gives us value for our monoy We therefore cordially recommend our readers to buy 'Frank Melton'a Luck.'"—Extract from review of " Frank Melton'e Luck," Oxford and Gust "Observer," October 31st, IS9I, Canterbury.