GRACE LATOUCHE AND THE WARRINGTONS. By Marjorie Bowen. (Selwin and
Blount. 7s. 6d.) A subtle essence of Victorianism pervades these " nineteenth century pieces," and there are many signs that Miss Bowen has enjoyed the writing of them. She is at her very best when re-creating a past, not too far distant to alienate those who are shy of historical fiction, and far enough to provide excuse for numerous little embellishments of courtliness, coyness, dignity and romantic affection. There are stories of ghosts, elopements, love, murder and mystery. Perhaps the best of all is " The Crown Derby Plate," but the title story which tells of a dignified woman of " easy virtue " who is forced to spend an evening in the company of an ultra-respectable wife and mother is a very close second. All the stories, whether dramatic, amusing or macabre have point : their great virtue is that they are stories, and do not depend upon the finishing touches, graceful though these are.
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