In the Memoirs of the Crown Princess Cecilie (Gollancz, 15s.)
there is a great deal of reading which might enchant a child. Discreet to the point of romance, if not precisely dramatic, her recollections are at least scenic. Glistening processions and gorgeous functions, the sheen of satin and jewels, lit up the holidays of a child peculiarly sensitive to the delight of pageantry. Her lessons would seem dull to modern girls. "From an early age I was very fond of reading and as my mother gave me every Christmas some beautiful books which she selected in consultation with my governess I only had good things to read in my youth." But lessons were over very early, and then came the sentimental pleasures of an arranged marriage. The ex-Crown Prince figures as Prince Charming. The Kaiser is a " knightly " figure of fluent religious expression, the Kaiserin a dignified embodiment of perfect domesticity, &c., &c.
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