a novel, and ends like an ordinary biography. In some
of the scones described, though the incidents and characters appear to be real, the conversations and details must be imaginary. Such a mode of treating family history is no doubt questionable, but it has the merit of being graphic and lively. Tho work is a record of a branch of the family of Christian, which seems for several generations to have followed the Navy as an hereditary profession. The family itself is well known in connection with the history and legends of the Isle of Man. Sir Hugh C. Christian, one of its most distinguished members, was evidently a man of whom the world will be willing to hear something. On several occasions he performed eminent services, and was probably only hin- dered by a comparatively early death from taking still higher rank in the naval annals of his country. The book is well written, neither dry nor tedious, and the author shows signs of considerable literary power. Some interesting letters are introduced, amongst others several from the late King William IV.
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