7 NOVEMBER 1896, Page 10

The Temptation of Ernest Ellerby. By F. Lethbridge Farmer. (S.P.C.K.)—Ernest

Ellerby is overpowered by grave doubts as to the truth of the theology which he is studying. The temptation is whether, in view of the great advantages which are within his grasp, he shall stifle these doubts and persevere in his original purpose of taking orders. This problem of practical life is well worked out. We cannot say as much for the whole of the story. Old Mr. Purley, with his fixed resolve that his elder daughter should marry first one partner, and, this plan failing, then another, is really grotesque. Sir Anthony Absolute is a comic, not a real, character.