The Rev. Elmer Gantry was reading an illustrated pink periodical devoted to prize-fighters and chorus girls in his room at Elizabeth J. Schmutz Hall late of an afternoon when two large men walked in without knocking.

"Why, good evening, Brother Bains -- Brother Naylor! This is a pleasant surprise. I was, uh -- Did you ever see this horrible rag? . . . I was thinking of denouncing it next Sunday. I hope you never read it.''

WASHINGTON -- In life as in literature, Elmer Gantry is a recurring American figure. He is making yet another appearance in the matter of former U.S. Rep. Mark Foley of Florida.