The Rajah. By F. E. Penny. (Chatto and Windus. 6s.)—The
Rajah of Shivapet comes to England, and learns at Eton and Oxford English ways. He is called back to govern his native State, and takes with him as his secretary Ted Dersingham, inheritor of an old family estate, "impoverished by the land-tax and death dues "—scarcely "land-tax" we should say. With Ted Dersingham goes his sister Pauline. Here are the materials of which the author of Caste and Creed makes the skilful M30 which we might expect from her. The picture of the life in the harem ruled by the four "mothers" of the Rajah, or, rather, by the senior of them, is wonderfully vivid. Indeed, all the details of the story make a strong impression, as we read. What Western mind can understand that an Eastern prince may positively displease by being- too easy of access ? He should make difficulties that the.fmal granting of the favour may more gratify the suppliant; he should keep him waiting at the palace gate that all may know that he is to be honoured with an audience with the " Presence."
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