7 DECEMBER 1895, Page 12

Among the Gnomes. By Franz Hartmann. (Fisher Unwin.)— Those who

appreciate the weird legends connected with the Gnomes of the Alps will read Dr. Hartmann's fanciful story of adventure in the caverns of the Untersberg with some relish. Mr. Schneider, who finds the Gnomes a simple folk, attempts to civilise them by teaching them logic, and the distinction between truth and falsehood. The effect is disastrous ; but he wakes from his dream before things get too complicated, and returns to the realities of everyday life. Young people will not find the Gnomes of Dr. Hartmann very terrifying ; and if they want a quiet hour and a quiet laugh, by all means let them read Among the Gnomes.