THE GALLANTS. By E. Barrington. (Harrap. 10s. (id.) .. —The Gallants,
whom Mrs. Adams Beck has recalled to life are very gay and small wonder, since they have for company such very, exquisite ladies. In fact, the only fault that one can find with this book is that the ladies predominate. One feels that the author has looked at the pretty minxes through masculine eyes, instead of allowing them to turn their oft bright gaze on the princes, courtiers and beaux, who sought solace from their charms. We have for so long coupled Nelson's name with that of his Emma that we have forgotten the tomb of Frances, Viscountess Nelson, Duchess of 13ronte. Here we have her opinion of Emma. "Two -years younger than me, but I knew I wore better. Her manners overblown like her figure. Her hands and feet large and coarse." Per- haps the most notable figure in the book is the Duke of Mont- rose, so hopelessly loved by poor Mary of Orange :—" You were light, you were disloyal, you were hard to hold, So you lie beneath the ashes of your hopes and aims, But my heart grows cold to dancing, now your heart is cold. Now you dance no more, for ever, cousin James." Mrs. Adams Beek has written a very charming book, and her touch is light and airy, as is fitting to the theme.
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