27 JUNE 1903, Page 13

La Bruyare and Vauvenargues. Translated, with Introductory Notes and Memoirs,

by Elizabeth Lee. (A. Constable and Co. 3s. 6d. net.)—Every one may be supposed to have made up his mind as to the merits of La Bruyere ; fewer readers have made the acquaintance of Vauvenargues, but they may do so with profit under Miss Lee's guidance. She has written memoirs which are judiciously arranged, has made a good selection of characters and maxims, and put them into readable English. This is not a volume from which we need give specimens ; but we will venture to quote a passage on which we have happened to light :—" It is sometimes easier to form a party than to attain by degrees the head of a party already formed." Is there a possible application just now?