30 JANUARY 1897, Page 12

Torriba. By John Cameron Grant. (Constable and Co.)—Here is a

new version of "Paul and Virginia," with not a little difference, and the difference not in the way of improvement. In fact, to speak plainly, there is absurd sentimentality succeeded by hideous realism. Even in these days one does not often come across a book so revolting to true taste as Torriba.