The Living Phonograph.

Observer, Volume X, Issue 629, 17 January 1891, Page 6

The Living Phonograph.

Thiß is only one of the phrases employed to desoribe a man of extraordinary personality and outstanding ability who is now in Auckland. Glancing over press notices, I find him also set down as a ' powerful orator,' • a splendid elocutionist,' and « the Second Gough.' E. T. Smith is the commonplace name of this far from commonplace gentleman. The title of this artiole is one that describes only part of this gentleman's qualifications, but it does so mo?t expressively. Mr Smith can reproduce orations by J. B. Gough, Rev. Dr. Talmage, and others, with a fidelity and force that captivate audiences. It seems only to be a chance that Mr Smith is a temperance advocate. He might have been an Al elocutionist, or a dramatic star, or a public orator. He is worth hearing, apart altogether from his mission, and the general public of Auckland will, no doubt, flock to Tiis entertainments. These commence next vraek at the City Hall.' If a bald head is a sign of idiotoy, Mr Smith shows undoubted traces of genius. When there is good matter to preserve, the barn is always well thatched.