Ladies and Gentlemen—I am here to introduce Mr. Charles Kingsley, the lecturer of the evening, and will observe that when I wrote the book called “The Innocents Abroad” [applause], I thought it was a volume which would bring me at once into intimate relation with the clergy. But I could bring evidence to show that from that day to this, this is the first time that I have ever been called upon to perform this pleasant office of vouching for a clergyman [laughter] and give him a good unbiased start before an audience. [Laughter.] Now that my opportunity has come at last, I am appointed to introduce a clergyman who needs no introduction in America. [Applause.] And although I have n’t been requested by the committee to indorse him, I volunteer that [laughter] because I think it is a graceful thing to do; and it is all the more graceful, from being so unnecessary. . . . And I am glad to say that this kindly feeling toward Mr. Kingsley is not wasted, for his heart is with America, and when he is in his own home the latch string hangs on the outside of the door for us. I know this from personal experience; perhaps that is why it has not been considered unfitting that I should perform this office in which I am now engaged. [Laughter.] Now, for a year, for more than a year, I have been enjoying the hearty hospitality of English friends in England, and this is a hospitality which is growing wider and freer every day toward our countrymen. I was treated so well there, so undeservedly well, that I should always be glad of an opportunity to extend to Englishmen the good offices of our people; and I do hope that the good feeling, the growing good feeling, between the old mother country and her strong, aspiring child will continue to extend until it shall exist over the whole great area of both nations. I have the honor to introduce to you Rev. Charles Kingsley. [Applause.] (“Rev. Charles Kingsley at Tremont Temple,” Boston Evening Transcript, 18 Feb 74, 1)