13 JUNE 1914, Page 24

Studies in Milton. By Alden Sampson. (John Murray. 88. net.)—Till

the cover of this book assured us of the fact, we were not aware that a new volume of three hundred pages was needed to "bring out the real beauty" of Milton's poetry and life. We should have thought that "Lycidas" and "Samson Agonistes " were able to impress the reader with an adequate sense of their own merits. But it is possible that some people will read Mr. Sampson who have not yet thought of reading Milton, and the former has artfully introduced so many quotations that his reader will probably acquire the taste for more. Those who already know Milton will find Mr. Sampson's criticism just a little oommonplace : but it is obviously well meant.