"FRANK MELTON'S LUCK."

Auckland Star, Volume XXIII, Issue 117, 18 May 1892, Page 2

"FRANK MELTON'S LUCK."

[By Thos. Cottle. Published by H. Brett, Auckland.]

" . . . . The author has produced a very readable book. His characters aro well drawn and 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 admirably described : and the truth, accuracy, and vividness of the depiction given of the gold fever ' in the good old mining days,' and of the Hauhau war, which are the two principal historical incidents woven into ths story, can be attested by those who took part in them. The author neither apologises for the failings of New Zealanders, nor does he praise in gushing terms what is admirable in them. He simply describes them as they are. He shows how easily a swindling coxscomb like Grosvenor by merely holding himself oufc to be somebody, can dupe them ; how gambling in mining scrip, horse-racing, etc., can demoralise them, how hospitable they are, 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 homes. 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.