Paces and Places. By Henry W. Lucy. (Henry and Co.)—We
do not know that "Wit and Humour" is the best description to give of all the contents of this volume, but that it contains some excellent reading there can be no doubt whatever. "Fred" Burnaby is an excellent sketch of a remarkable personality, and "A Historic Crowd" introduces us to another personality, also remarkable, but in another way, the once famous Claimant. "To Those about to Become Journalists" gives some excellent advice, which it is scarcely probable will be taken. "A Cinque Port" describes Hythe ; and "Christmas-Eve at Watt's" is a curious experience. " Watt's " is a Rochester charity whore six wayfarers, "not being Rogues or Proctors," may find a lodging, entertain- ment, and four-pence. Dickens described the place many years ago, but it seems with a good deal of romance. Is Mr. Lucy, by any chance, romancing also ? Other papers there are of varied interest, and last of all "Preachers Whom I Have Known," in which edification and entertainment are curiously mixed. Here is a little anecdote of one of these preachers, Bendigo, in the early days of his apostleship, when the "old man" was still strong. He attended an infidel meeting : "Who's them chaps on the platform?' said Bendigo to Jim.—' Infidels,' said Jim.— ' What's that P' queried Bendigo.—' Why, fellows as don't believe in God or the devil.'—' Then come along, and we'll soon clear the platform,' said Bendigo, beginning to strip."
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