Heroes of Modern Africa. By Edward Gilliat, M.A. (Seeley and
Service. 5s.)—Mr. Gilliat divides his book into three parts, giving the first to explorers, the second to soldiers and sailors, the third to statesmen. It would not be easy to say which of the three is the most interesting. Mr. Gilliat always tells his story well; knows where to put a picturesque detail, and can even supply a touch of humour, as when he wonders whether the presents which King Gelele of Dahomey sent by Richard Burton to Queen Victoria—two ragged boys, a counterpane, a tobacco pouch, and a sack to hold skulls—are still preserved at Windsor Castle. Bruce, Samuel Baker, and Stanley are conspicuous among the travellers ; Lord Exmouth, Lord Wolseley, and Lord Kitchener among the fighters ; and Sir Bartle Frere and Lord Cromer among the administrators. Mr. Gilliat does not, however, forget to give due meed of praise to less famous men, to whom only the oppor- tunity has been wanting—to Mr. E. G. Grogan, for instance, who in a Cambridge vacation made his way from the Cape to Cairo. Altogether this book makes a very fine record of courage, sagacity, and devotion. The only thing that mars our pleasure as we read is the intruding remembrance that most of these men have been belittled or maligned while they lived. There is all the more reason, however, that the truth should be told to readers who will some day have a voice in these matters. Then the Little Englanders to come will speak in vain.
• The Romance of Aeronautics. By Charles C. Tumor. London: Seeley, Service and Co. L53.3
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