28 DECEMBER 1867, Page 21

Conrade Verner ; or, the Hill of Difficulty. By Martha

Lee. (Houlston and Wright.)—A modest preface prepares us for the imperfections of this story, and we lay it down with a feeling that Miss Loo has some talents which are yet undeveloped, but that her mind is not consistent in carrying out trains of thought. The moral of this story, wo aro told, is that Conrade Verner mastered his passions, but though we aro glad to hear this as a fact, we do not witness its operation. Parts of the story are needlessly sad and gloomy. Other parts are full of a• young-ladyish romance, which will not bear any practical test. But we think, on the whole, the book contains some promise, and we shall be glad if another time we are not disappointed.