Chats at St. Ampelio. By John A. Goodchild. (Regan Paul
and Co.)---There is a curious attraction about these conversational dishes of Mr. Goodchild which, even when we are not at one with
the opinions in them, compels us to read and think over them. For though only conversational, they are solid without being heavy, and rich without being too sweet. Mr. Groodchild's sarcasm, too, is very refreshing, strong, and quiet, without any violence. The " Chats " are the discussions which arise at meals amongst two ladies, a chaplain, a rhymer, a Socialist, and a doctor ; the reader, unfortunately, cannot enter into the arena, however much he is tempted to do so. All these individuals are fairly typical, and somewhat above the average, at any rate in dialectical skill. The Socialist is perhaps somewhat hardly treated, and is attacked in turns by all. It is surely a cruel fate
which makes him a capitalist living on interest ; in other respects he is the ideal Socialist, both in illogical reasoning and visionary philanthropy. Full justice, however, is done to him in the earth- quake, which shows him at his best. Chats at St. Arnrelio is a very readable book.
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