4 DECEMBER 1926, Page 48

S.P.Q.R. By Peter Hastings. (Holden. 7s. 6d. net.)— It is

disquieting to see that Mr. Hasting's first novel is written with such ease. We could forgive him awkwardness or the fault of aiming too high. But, in fact, he aims tot!, low and sets himself no hard tasks. This is particularly noticeable in his conversations. There is plenty of dialogue, and none of it is stiff ; but his characters mistake good-natured abuse for wit. They are perpetually, insulting. each other to the accom- paniment of loud roars of laughter. Tac story is set in the Rome of the Emperor Domitian. Maximius, the hero, is a gladiator whose luck brings him to a position of great power. The picture of decadent Roman society is vividly drawn.