24 DECEMBER 1927, Page 18

An old subscriber in Belfast, Mr. David E. Lowry, sends

an Interesting booklet on the Norsemen and Danes of Strangford Lough, reprinted from the Proceedings of the Belfast Natural History Society (Belfast : John Adams. is. 6d.). Few people realize how great a part the Scandinavians played in Irish history from the eighth to the twelfth century, not merely as destructive pirates but also as peaceful Christian traders. Mr. Lowry's sketch of the subject should inspire readers to find out more about Halfdane, Magnus Barefoot, and other mighty Northern warriors who used Strangford Lough as a base for their fleets of longships.