30 NOVEMBER 1907, Page 26

The Gentlest Art. Edited by E. V. Lucas. (Methuen and

Co. 5s.)—Every one would not guess that the "art" is that or writing letters,—that is, good letters, letters which are delightful- to read at once and remain a possession for ever. Mr. Lucas's little volume is "A Choice of Letters by Entertaining Hands." He- begins with "Marjorie Fleming writes her first letter,"—this is. the first in the "Children and Grandfathers." He ends with Mr.. Weller, senior's, announcement of the death of Sam's " mother-in- law." Between these two we have a most attractive collection of all sorts and conditions. We have by no means lost the art, as some people insist on saying. It is true that most of the letters here date from before the penny post, for this is said to have been the great destroyer. Quite enough, however, to reassure us are later.. A more charming volume it would not be easy to find.