18 NOVEMBER 1893, Page 10

Mrolee. By Thomas Stephens. Edited by Llywant Reynolds,

(Longuians.)—At an Eisteddfod held at Llangollen some thirty-five years ago, a prize was offered for the best essay on the "Discovery of America in the Twelfth Century by Prince Madoc sib 'Dwain Gwynedd." Six competitors entered for it, five of whom took the affirmative ; one, in the volume now before us, the negative side. In the opinion of the ablest of the judges, Mr. Stephens proved his point, or at least demolished the proofs that had been alleged for the discovery. The prize, however, was not awarded to the essay by common consent the ablest of the whole. It was hold not to be on the subject. For various reasons it did not appear in the author's lifetime. The editor does it a tardy justice by now bringing it out. Whether his countrymen will approve, we cannot say ; the legend of Made() as the discoverer of America is as dear to the Welshman as is that of the virtuous Mary Queen of Scots on the North of the Border. However this May be, the negative argument is hero presented in a masterly way, and with an almost exhaustive learning.