3 JULY 1926, Page 28

FICTION

BARRICADE. By John Presland. (Philip Allan. 7s. 6d. net.) —Mr. Presland describes revolutionary Vienna in 1848, and gives us not only an interesting and exciting story, but a series _ of well-finished portraits, historical and otherwise. There is a masterly sketch of the young Archduke Francis Joseph with his pitiless attitude of detachment and his false bonhomie to anyone whom he thinks devoted to his service. During times of public excitement it may be useful to have lessons from history of the futility of revolution conveyed in the easily assimilated form of fiction, although the events of the last few weeks lead us to hope that we have learned the lesson already.