4 DECEMBER 1909, Page 9

Kinsman and Namesake. By R. Stead. (Blackie and Son. 2s.

6d.)—This " Story of the Days of Henry IV." has to do with the troubles in the North which ended in the death of Archbishop Scrope. The King, as might be expected, does not appear to advantage ; but it must be remembered that a Monarch with a, doubtful title who found himself charged with the murder of his Sovereign, irreligion, and every other possible offence, as in the famous "Articles of York," would naturally be furious with the prelate who seemed to be responsible for their publication,—they were posted on the church doors in York. It must have been something serious that urged him to execute a great ecclesiastic. Such grave questions are better avoided; otherwise, the story is good enough.