The Empire's Children. By John Finnemore. (W. and R. Chambers.
2s. 6d.)—These seven short stories sketching the life of children in the great Colonies and India will delight young readers, for they are well told, the local colour is good, and they are full of adventure. The two best are " The Story of Seetah, the Red Boy" and "The Story of Epuni and Amohia." The first relates the dogged courage and determination of a young Cree boy to keep his mother and sisters from starving during a cold spell. The fearful cold and the savage scenery are impressively described, and Seetah is a fine study of aboriginal endurance. Owenee, the patient, stoical Indian mother, appeals to us no less. Epuni and Amohia are orphaned Maori children who run away from the house of the chief's cruel wife, and support life by spearing fish. The robbery of Epuni's gum-digging tools compels them to appeal to a station, and all ends happily. Chandra, the young Hindu mahout, and his elephant Jung' will be scarcely less interesting to boys. It is an excellent little collection, and should make a first-rate present for either boy or girl.
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