13 AUGUST 1898, Page 24

History of England. Part II. (1509-1689). By F. York Powers

and T. F. Tout. (Longmans and Co.)—This volume, dealing with the history of England from the accession of Henry VIII. to the Revolution of 1689, and covering, therefore, both Tudon and Stewart periods, is the second part of a work the first and third parts of which have already been published, and consequently fills a gap. As the one author is Regius Professor of History in Oxford, and the other fills a somewhat similar position in Owen's College, Manchester, it is quite unnecessary to say that the book is marked by impartiality, accuracy of information, and balance, if not brilliancy, in style. It is intended for middle forms in schools, but adult readers will find it worth perusal, especially those portions of it which deal with the social and educational progress of the nation during the periods which it covers. The authors have done very wisely in brightening up their condensed narrative with quotations from the poets of the time illustrative of foible, fashion, and " fad."' Messrs. York Powell and Tout show great skill in treating in an essentially uncontroversial spirit subjects that are full of con- troversy. Their work is very heartily to be commended. The type, however, is almost painfully small.