31 MAY 1890, Page 25

plain of figures that are labelled " strange " by

the artist, if they seem somewhat extravagant. The strangest of all is certainly Lewis Darrell. In fact, the author does not make his action quite

intelligible. One may guess, for instance, at the real nature of his relation to his brother's wife, and probably guess right ; but there are difficulties in the situation. And why his obstinate silence and self-seclusion ? We readily allow, however, that there is some interest in the story, and not a little of the vigorous writing which we have come to expect from the author. But we should prefer to hear about people who are not " strange."