A swindle. Bartlett says that “Peter Funk” is a puffer or a by-bidder.
1854. I know them—a set of peanut agitators and Peter Funk philanthropists.—Mr. Mike Walsh of N.Y., House of Repr., May 19: Cong. Globe, p. 1230.
1857. A sort of patent safe or Peter Funk operation.—N.Y. Herald, Sept. 1. (Bartlett.)
1858. The American people understand pretty well Peter Funk auctions. Once in a while a greenhorn gets taken in; but the great mass of the people will not be taken in by them.—Mr. Wade of Ohio, U.S. Senate, March 15: Cong. Globe, p. 1122.
