27 OCTOBER 1888, Page 21

Sketches in Song. By George Lansing Raymond. (G. P.. Putnam's

Sons.)—This volume consists of several short pieces; and one long poem which is dramatic in its treatment. The latter is a very thoughtful study of character. Mr. Raymond brings to his work a great knowledge of the aims and motives which are influential in certain phases of human life. Such as read this poem will derive from it a benefit more lasting than the mere pleasure of the moment. The verse, also, is good, and the story, interesting. The shorter poems are pretty and musical. Mr. Raymond is not as successful in them as he is in "Ideals Made Real." He lacks a little the lightness and delicacy of touch which are necessary to make lyrics really good. Still, some of them are- well worth reading.