Alphonse Daudet. By his Son, Leon Daudet. Translated by Charles
de Kay. (Sampson Low, Marston, and Co. Ls.)—This book is not a " Life," as described, apparently by the binder, but a study of character. It is not always easily intelligible, but that is probably not altogether the fault of the writer. It leaves, however, a strong impression on the mind, of a vigorous nature, somewhat lawless and unrestrained, with the defects of French virtues strongly marked, but with a certain strength and nobility that it is impos- sible not to admire. It is interesting to find that Daudet's two great heroes were Napoleon and Stanley. The translator has not done his work satisfactorily. His task requires the knowledge of two languages, a qualification which he cannot be said to possess. " Intimate eloquence" conveys no idea to the English mind. And "man of family" conveys one entirely different from what is intended. It means a man of good birth, whereas 31. Leon Daudet is describing his father as he was to be seen in his home.
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