5 DECEMBER 1891, Page 12

Lady Merton. By J. C. Heywood. 2 vols. (Burns and

Oates.) —This is one of that most objectionable species of books, the con- troversial novel. Questions of theology and etclesiastical govern- ment are mixed up with the more usual subjects of fiction. That the "Protestant dogs got the worst of it," need hardly be said ; nor is it any wonder, considering how very foolish they are. There are other distasteful things in the story, which can hardly further the cause for which, doubtless in all honesty and good-will, it has been written.