28 NOVEMBER 1925, Page 39

THE BOOK OF THE ROPES. - By Dr. F. J. Bayer.

Traiizlated by E. M. Lamond. (Methuen. 7s. 6d. not.) This book has les.s than fifty pages. of letterpress, but nearly. seven hundred excellent illustrations—of the Popes, their coats of arms'and tombs, and of the Vatican.. Short notes are given of theliires of the Popes, and the whole forms a conve- nient illustrated directory. The most impressive tomb of Which an illustration is given is that of His Holiness Pope Pius X, which in its dignified simplicity forms a striking con- trast to the-ornate and elaborate sculptures ereeted by most of his predecessors and fittingly 'commemorates one who was justly renowned for his true and simple piety.