12 OCTOBER 1889, Page 43

Poems of Nature and Life. By D. R. Williamson. (W.

Black- wood and Sons.)—These poems display a certain command of language, and the lines run smoothly, if somewhat monotonously. Nor is there wanting elevation of thought and dignity of expres- sion, but the verses lack vigour and heartiness, and if they never sink below a certain level, can scarcely be said to rise above it. "In Memoriam : Matthew Arnold" is a graceful and sympathetic poem, and shows Dr. Williamson at his best.