THE CHRONICLE OF THOMAS OF ECCLESTON.
The Chronicle of Thomas of Balaton. Newly Done into English, with Preface and Notes, by Father Cuthbert, 0.S.F.C. (Sands and Co. 2s. 6d. net.)—The coming of the Friars Minor to England in 1224 was an event of religious and historical importance magnified by an atmosphere of romance. The Chronicle of Thomas of Eccleston, written probably in 1268, which tells of their arrival, their many adventures, and their great success, has been newly translated by Father Cuthbert. Eccleston was twenty-five years, he tells 1113, in collecting material for his narrative. It is a strange medley of facts and anecdotes. One cannot doubt the transparent sincerity of the writer even when he is dealing with the super- natural. Yet there is something of childishness about the whole composition which prevents the reader from getting any real mental grasp either of the men or the situations set before him. The notes and appendices are, however, both interesting and enlightening.
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