AN ARDENT ADMIRER.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume VI, Issue 27, 5 July 1890, Page 6

AN ARDENT ADMIRER.

A hard-featured man, dressed in a new suit of very cheap black, cal lei at the house of a well-known clergyman, and, upon giving his name, was invited to take a seat in the gentleman s study. • I have a few days to spend in the town,’ said the visitor, ‘ and I did not want to leave without calling and paying my respects to you. I have heard you preach many a time.’ ‘ Yes ?’ said the parson, beginning to take an interest in the visitor. ‘ I like vour preaching, and, though I do not belong to your church, yet I must say that you preach the best sermon I ever heard.’ • Yes ?’ said the parson. ‘ There are so very few good preachers now, so very few in whose uprightness we can place trust, that, when we meet one of the right kind, we like to express our appreciation.’ ‘ Yes,’ the good man repeated : and, as a bell tinkled, he arose and said : ‘ Come, my friend, and take some lunch with me.’ The visitor was only too happy, and, seated at table, began to eat with an avidity that attracted his host’s attention. • You say that you have heard me preach many a time?’ remarked the minister. ‘Oh, yes'.’ the man replied, conveying an ample allowance of mashed potatoes into his mouth. • I don't remember ever having seen you at my church. I suppose you heard me in the country ?' ‘ No,' said the visitor, helping himself to beans, ‘not in the country.’ ‘ Certainly not in town?’ ‘ Well, sorter yes, and sorter not. You know you preached at the penitentiary for some time. I was in there tor stealing a horse and cart, and finished my time to-day. Thank you for the bread.’