By Mrs. Alfred Wingate. (Crosby Lockwood. 10s, 6d.)—Again we are
transported to. the Far East of the Middle Ages. This book' requires-to be read with a map and a study of the genealogies at the end ; but those readers who will take this trouble will find themselves amply repaid. Although -the - book deals with the thirteenth century, the accounts of the campaigns in China are decidedly reminiscent of the morning newspaper of the day. They are, in fact, not the:least interesting part of the book.. The two principal characters are Kubilai, better known to English readers as Kubla Khan, and Marco Polo; 'and to many people the chapters which deal with, inediaeyal Venice will be among the most interesting. The accounts of the journeys of the three Venetians in Central Asia, especially over the redoubtable Desert of Lop, are graphic and realistic, and bring the horrors of such travel vividly before our eyes. The keynote of the book; however; lies neither in personalities nor in -battles, but will,be found.in the word " Jen, ' reminiscent of the Logos .of St._ John, the Word of Life, combining the, natural and moral laws.' The philosophy, however, is a little confused by con- densation, but it forms the motive of Jubla Khan's faith and actions. The volume has' very little resemblance to the usual type Of modern fiction, but it is an extremely able work, is well written, and shows much study and comprehension both of mediaevalism and of the Far East.
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