Jim Moss, as I must affectionately call him, was among the pioneer of such combinations [touring vaudeville companies]. He was […] a most versatile artiste, being familiarly known as “the fiddling comedian.” […] He perhaps was not a Paganini or a Paderewski, but he was equally at home with the violin and piano.

Some thirty years ago, by way of encouraging rising talent, he organised a concert in the City Hall, at which amateur comedians competed fora prize of £5. Over thirty would-be comics took part in the competition, which was a huge success. The audience acted in the capacity of judge, and each competitor had his group of admirers to cheer his “turn.” After a night of merriment the prize was secured by Peter Pollok, who sang “Sour Milk Charlie.” It is questionable if he was the best comic; but he certainly had the best song.