24 SEPTEMBER 1892, Page 25

The Homes and Haunts of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, Poet Laureate.

better than a mere picture-book, and the numerous illustrations will be found full of interest to all lovers of Tennyson's poetry. The work is an enlargement of a small volume printed for private circulation in 1889, and is worthy of the additional labour Mr.

Napier has bestowed upon it. Few poets have been more influenced by local associations, and the character of the scenery amidst which the Laureate has lived is vividly impressed upon his verse. Much in it that is beautiful is due to the poet's home memories and affections ; and in his account of the Tennyson family, the author has the merit—rare in these days—of being

wholly free from the impertinent curiosity of the interviewer. He relates much that the reader is glad to know, and nothing

which he has no right to know. As a companion to the verse of the only living poet whose voice of song charms the public, and also satisfies the " fit audience " able to appreciate its highest excel- lence, this handsome volume merits the success which it can scarcely fail to receive.