2 JULY 1921, Page 29

Simon Called Peter. By Robert Keable. (Constable. 8s. 6d. net.)—Peter

is an Army Chaplain who goes to the Front with the highest ideals and intentions. He perceives that, owing to hie cloth, his companions entirely hide their real wishes and desires from him, and steps down to their level in order to obtain the sympathy of comprehension. Unfortunately, however, he does not maintain a detached attitude, but really becomes a sinner himself, and his sentimental adventures are related in minute detail by the author. The book is very well written, and obviously has a serious intention. It is, however, marred by a tendency to revel in the descriptions of the passionate episodes in which Peter is engaged. The figure of Julie, who becomes his mistress, and who for his own good makes the great

renouncement of refusing to marry him, is admirably drawn, but she has so much stronger a character than Peter that it may be doubted whether she would not have done a better thing for her lover in helping him to realize the aims of life with the courage and idealism which are hers.