A Knight of To-Day. By L. T. Meade. (John F.
Shaw.)—There is no little evidence of power in this book, interest in the story, and vigour in the delineation of character. The " Knight " is no common-place philanthropist. The author has got a distinct conception of a nature quite real, though uncommon. She does not work it out quite clearly, but she does certainly manage to leave on the reader's mind the impres- sion of a distinct personality, quite different from the persona; through which many writers of books are content to utter their moral and reli- gious sentiments. When we say that the story is interesting, we do not commit °moves to an approval of the whole of the plot. The moans by which the " Knight's " downfall is brought about has tho look of a quite feminine ignorance of business about it. It is contrived that he should present a forged cheque at a bank whore the person whose name was forged had no account. Nor do we admire the casuistry which seems to satisfy Helen. There is a certain history in the Bible which seems to teach that justice is more sacred than an oath, nor can those who entangle themselves in such difficulties expect such an answer to prayer as releases the maker of a rash vow from her difficulties in the story before us.
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