Personal Economy and Social Reform. By H. G. Wood, M.A.
(93-4 Chancery Lane, W.C.)—Mr. Wood has a very difficult subject in his "inquiry into the spending and earning of money." Up to a certain point it is easy enough. The woman who puts a costly coat on her lap-dog while her poor neighbour goes bare is without defence ; but difficulties soon begin. Luxury and splendour must be unless we are to give society a wholly new form. In a monarchy the throne must have its jewels, lords, and velvets ; republics find it necessary to give a certain magnificence to their chiefs. This is only one of countless problems of the practical life that have to be solved. We cannot attempt to discuss Mr. Wood's methods of dealing with them. Commonly he shows great good sense and he never lacks courage. Sometimes he seems to us a little rash. Is it true that the "influence of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge on their respective cities offers food for unpleasant reflection"? True it is in a sense. The condition of any city offers such food ; but we may be sure that Oxford and Clunbridge may compare favourably with many towns. Then "the fact that three-and-a-half million acres of land in Scotland are reserved for deer forest alone" is not significant in the sense which Mr. Wood implies. Much of it is best employed in this way. Did not a deputation of crofters come the other day to this conclusion ? But the book may be read with advantage. The man or woman who learns nothing from it must be either very wise or very stupid.
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