Columbine. By Viola Meynell. (Martin Seeker. 6s.)—The somewhat affected fancifulness
of Miss Meynell's three chapter-headings is occasionally reflected in the book itself; but that is only because the lino between delicacy and affec- tation is such a thin one, and Miss Meynell's writing is before all else delicate and subtle. She excels in defining just those small differences of character which make for individuality more than the most emphasized caricatnre, in conveying to us, for example, the pathetic and unconscious lack of refit:la:- talent which made Lily so little at ease in Dixon's home circle, where "he had the kind of hour that he loved, when at the meal-time they all met interestedly, each with a sense of work done—his father, whose work mattered, inquiring with keen interest into work which comparatively did not matter; his mother very quiet but very salient in all she said and did; Alison always varying and uncertain but never less lovable; and Jennifer Watts, whose capability was extended even to being no jar upon their intimacy." We have perhaps more sympathy with Lily than with either of the other women who influence Dixon's life; but the care and skill which the writes' has brought to the drawing of her minor characters are infinite, even to Mrs. Smith, who is merely a "voice off stage." Indeed, how can we better praise Miss Meynell than by saying that she has kept us supremely interested in a story where, after all, absolutely nothing happens P
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