He would read the clergyman into fits
In chapter 4 of Great Expectations, Pip writes about Mr Wopsle, "it was understood among his acquaintance that if you could only give him his head, he would read the clergyman into fits" The words "read" and "fits" have a special sahade in the context. Mr Wopsle read the prayers and lessons in the church in a dramatic and exaggerated way. And this exaggerated and dramatic way does not generate piousness in his audience; it brings fits of laughter. Give him only his head