Pinks and Cherries. By C. M. Ross. (James MacLehose and
Sons.)—It is only on account of their delightful simplicity that we include this collection of Norwegian tales in Christmas litera- ture. There is not a little tragedy in certain of their number. Even in the first story, which gives the title to the volume, the strong and good brother dies prematurely. There is even Zolaesque misery in the closing story, the title of which, "The North Wind," almost explains itself. The brave eaint, after saving others from drowning, fails to save himself, and his mother Widow Ane. who has been saved from utter moral ruin, by her love for him, is found on the floor with the brandy bottle beside her. "She was dead drunk. Perhaps it was better so." But both the tragedy and the comedy of the leading stories are on the whole such as " a child may understand," and they are told by a child who is not a little of an enfant terrible. Fortunately, the bulk of the sketches being of the lighter vein, are thoroughly enjoyable. We have read nothing better for a long time than "Vikings," with its excellent portrait of the too obedient boy Peter. " Music " gives a delightful picture of Norwegian matchmaking, flirtations, jealousy, and "musical evening" pleasures generally. The name of the author of this book is new to us, but he, or she, will be heard of again.
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