24 MAY 1913, Page 24

His Dear Desire. By Margaret Watson. (Smith, Elder and Co.

6s.)—Whether a water-mill could really inspire a boy with the master passion of his life may be doubted, but if this be conceded, Mrs. Watson works her theme out extremely well. The book is entirely concerned with country life and, as hinted above, the great desire of the laero, Bob Wyatt, is to succeed to the position of the miller of the village. All the personages of the story are well drawn, and the author contrives to make the parson's nephew, Oliver, yrho is trying to overcome a tendency to drink, both credible and

attractive. Altogether it is a thoroughly wholesome story of everyday life.