LONDON IN THE POCKET.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 137, 11 June 1932, Page 2 (Supplement)

LONDON IN THE POCKET.

London was certain of a place in the admirable "English Heritage" series, published by Longmans, and one welcomes its volume in the dainty green and gold binding that is now familiar. (The thought of swing a complete set in a study with a subdued light reflected from the backs is very agreeable). London is rich in tho English heritage. It is the capital of the Empire in which—pace tho "Celtic fringe"—the Englishman is .still tho predominant partner, and it is packed with historical, commercial, political and cultural interest. Mr. Chartres Biron says well in his introduction to Mr. H. G. Corner's book in this series, that though London has not the allure of Paris or the gaiety of Vienna, it is the ideal city to live with. "It has all the lasting charm of character and expression, and, like a pla.in woman with intelligence, is always disclosing fresh beauties to its faithful admirers. The good Londoner may stray in his affections, and waver for a time in hie aesthetic dalliance abroad, but he is always glad to get back." It is, as Mr. Biron says, remarkable how much information and entertainment Mr. Coiner has managed to introduce into the 174 pages of this book. Such compression is a rebuke to those who give u<s inordinately long books. This must take, rank with tho best of the small hooks about this mighty subject. It is London, the world's greatest city (and probably tho best governed), in the pocket.