2 SEPTEMBER 1893, Page 24

As a Man is Able. By Dorothy Leighton. 3 vols.

(W. Heine- mann.)—The author describes her tale as a "Study in Human Relationship." Vere Vandeleur falls in love with Iris Hope, bin tutor's daughter. Failing to obtain a post in the diplomatic service, he goes out to a plantation in India, and Iris goes with him, not being married to him. They try to get married in Paris, but there are difficulties. Considerations of health prevent them from staying in Calcutta. After some years. Vera falls irr love with a certain Beatrice, and marries her. On the wedding- day he confesses to her his past. But she knows Iris, whose nursing has indeed saved her life ; she poisons herself to escape- from the difficulty. This is Miss Leighton's "Study." We suppose that her whole mind is filled with the "sexual question." Dwelt upon exclusively, it has a way of blocking up all other views of life, Oar advice is that till she can clear her mind of this prepossession, she should lock up pens, ink, and paper. As a Man is Able is a. dismal mistake.