12 OCTOBER 1878, Page 23

They were Neighbours. By Laindon Hill. 3 vols. (Samuel Tinsley.)

—Three volumes of love-making, carried on by people who have nothing particularly striking about their character or their histories, will be found by many readers somewhat wearying. This is really the only criticism which we feel inclined to pass upon this novel. It is fairly well written ; the people talk naturally, and sometimes even well (Helen

Trevor, a young lady of very independent opinions and ways, is, perhaps, the best); and there is nothing in any way objectionable from beginning to end (except, perhaps, the mention of the hero's scepticism, which has no bearing on the development of the story); still, we cannot honestly recommend it.