11 JUNE 1921, Page 25

The Constitution and What it Means To-day. By Edward S.

Corwin. (Princeton University Press and H. Milford. Os. 6d. net.)—Professor Corwin's admirable little edition of the American Constittition appears in a revised form. It is precisely what many plain people want—namely, the text of the Constitution of 1787-9, with the amendments adopted since then, and with brief notes on the judicial interpretations which have modified some of the original provisions—in regard, for instance, to the election of Senators or to the Federal Income Tax. Professor Corwin's commentary, though brief, is most illuminating. He observes that there is nothing in the Constitution to prevent members of the Cabinet from being permitted to sit and speak in Congress—that is, if Congress desires their presence. The lack of contact between executive and legislature, which to English eyes is one of the gravest defects of the American system, might thus be remedied. In France a Minister-Deputy may address the Senate or a Minister-Senator the Chamber, and this practice has proved most convenient.