Prince Boderisk. By J. Brinsley-Richards. 3 vols. (Bentley.) —The position
of an Heir-Apparent who is unpopular with his family and his future subjects, must indeed be an unpleasant one. Prince Roderick's struggles against intrigues are sufficiently lively and probable to give a definite idea of the many cares and worries which beset a man in his position. Mr. Richards makes a very readable story out of the adventures of the Prince's secrd- tary, who, instead of furthering the aims of the Prince's enemies, guards his master to much good purpose. The comic element is more predominant than the tragic, chiefly owing to the hesitation of Roderick as to whom he shall marry. These love-affairs, indeed, are somewhat complicated and ridiculous. Opportunities for airing opinions frequently occur, and are not despised by the writer, who takes as well the liberty of a Continental traveller, and gives us some welcome touches of scenery and life. Prince Roderick, if not very eventful, is yet good reading, is well written, sometimes slightly humorous, and will remind many—the incident of the mad Prince's death especially—of many things that happened not long ago.
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