—Fra Angelico, and other Short Poems. By J. G. S.
(Longman.)— This is another volume of careful, polished verse, rising very nearly to the level of poetry whore the subject has presented itself to the writer's mind, and is such as has touched his heart, but for the most part, when the subject seems to have been sought for, not above the range of a meritorious exercise. The memorial verses to "J. K." (John Roble), had they more concentration, would be really excellent, and those to "J. L." (John Lonsdale, Bishop of Lonsdale), though pitched in a some- what lower key, are also very good. "Is it well with the child?" is also a true and tender transcript of feeling. We shall choose as a specimen of J. G. S.'s poems some stanzas from "The Good Shepherd " Pierced are His Palms. Oh! behold Him!
Bleeding His feet and His side, See how the robes which enfold him Stains as of crimson have dyed These are the wounds which it cost
Daring to rescue the lost.
"And He has traversed the mountains Bearing the heat of the day : Leading His flock to the fountains, Chasing the prowler away ;
Far has He travelled since morn,—
See He is weary and worn.
"Silent He stands in the gloaming, Guarding the gate of His fold; Sighing for those that are roaming. Telling till each one is told.
Pale is his brow,—and His Eye Sad as you planet on high."
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