10 JULY 1869, Page 22

Our Admiral's Flag Abroad: the Cruise of Admiral D. G.

Farragut in the Flagship Franklin. By J. E. Montgomery, A.M. (New York : Putnam. London : Sampson Low.)—One naturally compares this book with that which some time ago gave us the story of the cruise of the Galatea. Both are addressed to a special public, both are to be judged by other than literary considerations. The voyagings of a Royal Duke interest a certain class of readers here ; Republicans, not being blessed with royal dukes, content themselves with a veteran admiral, famous for one of the most gallant feats of modern times. In one respect, our own book must have the preference; our travellers went further afield and saw stranger places ; Admiral Farragut's company made a grand tour of Europe, and consequently there is very little new in their doings. The Admiral was most enthusiastically received everywhere, and seems, indeed, to have dined out as much as Mr. Reverdy Johnson himself ; but then, he distributed his favours among many European powers. Nor are the civilities of absolute rulers such as Alexander of Russia and Napoleon suspected, like those offered by a free people ; and in any case, much would be allowed to the hero of New Orleans and Mobile. The volume is very handsomely got up. It is written pleasantly, and in good

taste, with here and there a quaint reminder of its authorship, as, for • instance, when we are told that hospitality was offered to the Admiral

by several "prominent citizens of London." Fancy prominent citizens in such a wilderness of people ! The Lord Mayor and Aldermen are the only persons whom we can think of as answering to the title. There are some interesting illustrations, among them a characteristio photograph of the Admiral. Altogether, the book is a good one of its kind.