16 SEPTEMBER 1893, Page 24

Back to the Land. By Harold C. Moore. (Methuen.)—This is

one of the series of " Social Questions of To-day," and certainly deals with a subject as important and, we may add, as complicated as any. Mr. Moore is cautious in his statements and suggestions. He sees that the powers which it is proposed to confer on the Parish Councils of the future may be exercised to the great harm of all concerned. In his first chapter he expresses his disbelief in the " small-holdings " system. They can be profitable only in exceptional circumstances. " Settlement on Land Abroad " has a more hopeful look. We are glad to see, under this head, an em- phatic testimony to the success of Dr. Barnardo's emigration scheme. It should help him in the effort which he is now making to carry it on in undiminished proportions. One thing we cannot but believe would be very useful,—the establishment of butter- factories. Butter, to be good, ought—except, possibly, in very cold weather—to be made every day. That is clearly impossible on a small holding, but it might be done if the milk from many small holdings could be collected and churned at a conveniently central place.