28 SEPTEMBER 1907, Page 23

The Lover of Queen Elizabeth. By Mrs. Aubrey Richardson. (T.

Werner Lattrie. 12s. ad. het.)--We cannot say that there is no "scandal about Queen Elizabeth " in this volume ; but the subject is handled with adeqtiato gravity and discretion. It is, of course, Robert Dudley who is properly distinguished by the title of " The Mier." The liffection between the two lasted a long time, outlasted, indeed, not a fest distractions. It is impossible accurately to measitre its Strength. Perhaps, as far as real liking went, it was more sincere On the Queen's part. There was gentine feeling, we eitithoi but think, in the inscription in her own handwriting, "Hit last letter." But, on the other hand, it canna h supposed that she ever really intended to Marry him. He, On the contrary, was quite ready to do this, but we cannot believe that he was ever in love." His relations with other women forbid such an idea. Still, when we compare him with iittch rivals as the two French Princes with whom the Queen amused hergelf, quite as much as figures in her political galne as in tiny Other Capacity, he shows to aditantage. Mrs. Richardson tells us, and that rightly, that there were more Leicetters than one. `there *es a patriotic Leicester among these Various beings, and this is the one which we have the best reason for admiring. His sibilitY Was not eqttal to his goodwill, but he at least. honestly *tied to serve his country. One conclusion comes prominently out as we study this storyi—what a fortunate thing for England was the existence of the Cecils ! There is much that it is impossible to admire in them, but how ill we Should have fared without them !