KINDLING AND ASHES. By George Barr McCuteheon. (John Lane. 7s.
6d.)—In the American country town of Hurdleford there are two families that matter, the Waynes and the Jaggards—the former because of their lineage, and the latter on account of their wealth. Between the families there is an old feud, and when Benjamin Jaggard elopes with Barbara Wayne, his father disinherits him. On hearing that Absalom Jaggard is dying, Barbara conceives the successful stratagem of representing to the old man that Benjamin has not married, but seduced, her. Delighted to feel that his son has " dragged a Wayne in the mud," Absalom reinstates Benjamin in his will. But rumour of Benjamin's supposed dishonour spreads. Benjamin himself is murdered— apparently by one of Barbara's brothers, but actually by a than whom she loves. Other complications arise; and a thread of mystery runs throughout a story that is strong in characterization and has some good pictures Of the narrow provincialism of the Middle West.
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