VERSATILE PARSON

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 163, 7 April 1934, Page 18

VERSATILE PARSON

A Modern Houdini The Rev. Louis A. Ewart is Britain's most versatile parson. Not only does he fill his church every Sunday, but during the six remaining days of the week he keeps his congregation gasping with amazement at the tricks lie can Tierform. He is past master in tiie arts of conjuring, ventriloquism, elocution, and escape! ogy. It is this versatility of "Tiie Parson with the Pep” that lias put bis beautiful little church at Earls Barton, a tiny village near here, right on the map. People for miles around have travelled to see him entertain the villagers. To crown everything, (he Rev. Mr. Ewart issue a challenge to the police to escape from regulation handcuffs, firmly secured by the most careful police officer. So the most formidable pair of handcuffs available were obtained for the great demonstration before his parishioners. They were borrowed from tiie Wellingborough Police Force, and looked a pretty stiff proposition.

The vicar permitted himself to be manacled, looked at the handcuffs, smiled, and in a matter of moments was free. Again lie was handcuffed. Again the same thing happened. And this is Mr. Ewart’s great secret.

“When I was in Birmingham,” be said, “I had a friend who was a prominent locksmith in the Midlands. It. was the result of his teaching that I have been so successful.” One day he walked into Scotland Yard. He was given the severest test. He escaped. Now the vicar has made another remarkable offer. “I am quite prepared.” he said, “to visit any part of the country to demonstrate my powers. I am trying to raise £4OO for my church ; the only stipulation I make is that Hie proceeds will be devoted to that object and that alone.”