Imaginism and Rationalism: an Explanation of the Origin and Progress
of Christianity. By John Vickers. (Triibner.)—We have no doubt the author of this book thinks it extremely fine, and has quite converted himself by his own reasoning. To us it seems the very poorest trash that was ever written ; a mass of stale infidelity, the more tolling sugges- tions of which are taken from others, while the weakness is the writer's own. Mr. Vickers is good enough to suggest to those who would be Rationalists of his school that they should maintain an attitude of friendly and tolerant condescension towards the Church of England, should con- form to surrounding circumstances, act as churchwardens, teach in Sunday schools, and write books like Ecce Homo. His father, from whom he admits that he learnt his opinions, did all these things, with the single exception of the last, an omission which has not been supplied by his son. Mr. Vickers will do well to set about it at once, though he should bear in mind that such a work needs thought, logic', study, observation, sincerity, regard for truth, and common sense, all of which he has yet to acquire.
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