Heth and Moab. By Claude Reignier Conder, R.E. (Bentley and
Son.)—This book, published for the Committee of the Palestine Exploration Fund, and containing the record of Captain Conder's explorations conducted in Syria in the years 1881 and 1882, deserves a more satisfactory examination than we are able to give it. Viewed merely from a literary point of view, it could hardly be called a success. To the ordinary reader much of it must seem tedious, and the bulk will be considered disproportionate to the amount of gener- ally interesting matter. But this, of course, is not the way to regard such a work. As an exploration, to produce results of real value, must be accurate and complete, so must its record be minute. Cap- tain Conder's abilities as an explorer are well known by what he has done already, and his reputation will be increased by what he has done in these new fields of research. It is deplorable to think how be was hindered by the stupid jealousy of the Turkish Government, and he deserves much credit for the masterly way in which he gained time from obstructive officials. We heartily commend the book as one of substantial value.
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