10 OCTOBER 1896, Page 11

Disturbing Elements. By Mabel C. Birchenongh. (Smith, Elder, and Co.)—This

is a sufficiently lively story. It tells the

fortunes of three women, to whom we are introduced, as in- mates of Bronte Hall, in the first chapter. All are good studies of character, though there is just a suspicion of caricature, possibly indicated by the name of Virginia Rigby. It is too significant. The scene is shifted to France, and the contrast, we might say conflict, between English and French views of court- ship and marriage is skilfully used to heighten the interest of the story. One of the best things in the story is the persistent endeavour of Edward Bruce to win Mary Lanion for his wife. It would not be easy to give a better example of the advantage of not knowing when you are beaten.