14 JULY 1928, Page 19

Mr. Edward Michael has written the reminiscences of a checkered

career in Tramps of a Scamp (Werner Laurie, 21s.). He has been, it seems, a sailor, politician, thea- trical entrepreneur, and a journalist, besides engaging in other minor activities. Many of his reminiscences are of grand opera in its palmy days, of Calve and other great singers, while at one time the author was manager to Mrs. Langtry, to Maud Allan, and to Weedon Grossmith. The book ends with reminiscences of Kennedy Jones, Northcliffe, and the latter-day newspaper, proprietors. There are some quite good things in the book, but the rovings of a roving life are apt to become monotonous to the reader unless they are related with the greatest literary ability.

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