11 DECEMBER 1909, Page 24

Kashmir. Described by Sir Francis E. Yonnghusband, K.C.I.E. Paiited by

Major E. Idolyneux, D.S.O. (A..and C. Black. 20s. net.) —Kashmir is a name which of itself raises such expectations that there is almost inevitably a slight disappointment when we come to realising them. We say this with no intention of depreciating the very charming book that Sir Francis Younghusband and Major Molyneux have produced. It is a drawback that accom- panies most subjects which make a particular appeal to our imaginations. The criticism which we should feel inclined to make —that the book, especially the first half, shows unmistakable signs of haste—is deprecated by Sir Francis in his preface. And his plea that as Resident his time is much occupied is all the easier to accept, as it makes him in many respects particularly fitted for his task. His chapters dealing with the development of the country under the present Maharaja are immensely interesting, especially that which tells of the vast engineering schemes, some of which are already tasting of success. It is a picturesque touch that one of these projects is identical with that evolved and successfully carried-thrOugh by a native engineer over a thousand years ago. Major Molyneux's illustrations are exquisite; we may think that they era almost too numerous, though it would. be difficult to decide which we could spare.