29 AUGUST 1903, Page 22

The Tickencote Treasure. By William Le Queux. (G. Newnes. 6s.)—Mr.

Le Queux, afraid, it would seem, that the old attraction of a treasure-hunt would fail to draw, has added some curious embellishments. A very queer craft dating from about the time of the Armada is sighted and taken in tow by the 'Sea Horse.' It has on board a still more queer mariner, who looks like a survival of the same period. It has also one treasure—Italian, Spanish, and English gold pieces—and the clue to another. Then follows the accustomed struggle between the honest men and the villains for the possession of the hoard, every circumstance being of an extravagant kind, even down to the composition of the party of villains. Among them is an ex-Professor of Cambridge! We find him first as a common seaman deciphering a writing which has puzzled every one else. Mr. Le Queux is an expert compounder of sensational stories, but we do not think that be improves his work by adding this embroidery.