The Individualist. By Philip Gibbs. (E. Grant Richards. 6s.) —The
author of this book has not quite made up his mind whether he wishes to write a story of modern life or a political novel. "The Individualists" are a party of politicians who attempt a feat usually unsuccessful in English political life,—the formation of a moderate party which is to act separately from the official Liberal and Conservative Parties. The political part of the novel is well sketched in, but the story of the unfortunate heroine is a little commonplace. Alicia Frensham, having been brought up with very advanced ideas, allows Stretton Wingfield (one of the Individualists) to become her lover without the formality of marriage, thinking that the bond of love is sufficient guarantee of his faithfulness. Not unnaturally, considering Wingfield's character, her trust is grievously betrayed. As may be gathered, there is nothing particularly original in the plot, but the reader will feel a good deal of sympathy with Alicia. The opening of the story promises greater interest than the author is able to main- tain. The picture of Alicia conducting the village school is well done, and it is disappointing to find that the book is more con- cerned with her love affairs than with her professional career.
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