THE BOWER OF THE KEYS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2805, 18 December 1907, Page 89

THE BOWER OF THE KEYS.

By Sydney C. Grier,

London and Edinburgh : William Black-

wood and Sons.

In his latest novel Mr Grier chooses the ground that he has made so peculiarly his own : one of those frontier States in which the brooding wings of British power andi prestige may ensure actual peace, but are powerless to banish the phantoms o! fear and unrest. Surrounded by intrigue and treachery of minor Powers and neighbouring States, the little handful of British residents adventure themselves in the cause of humanity. That particular phase of philanthropy which caters for the bodies^ — and incidentally the souls^ — of Indian women and children is named St. Martin's Mission Hospital, and is presided over by Dr Eleanor Weston, L.R.C.P. and S., and Sister Janie.

The peaceful routine of St. Martin's Mission is only indicated sufficiently to make itself understood when the Solitical intrigues of the surrounding istricts come to an impasse, and we find Dr Weston and Sister Janie parted, involved in quite a respectable sea of troubles flavoured with perils, and find ourselves from mere —acquaintanceship with Axbnthnot of the Police becoming firm and admiring friends of that eminently plucky, resourceful, and masterful man.

Brimful of quietly indicated incidents, episodes, and adventures, there is a restrained and leisured style in the telling of them that keeps the reader in just a pleasant state of genuine interest, without undue excitement. But this, so far as personal experience goes, has always been one of the author's essential qualities. To it he adds a pretty turn for characterdrawing and a splendid faculty for rendering "atmosphere" -without obvious effort or intention. Therefore, to readers who enjoy a really good, well-written, and .well-thought-out story "The Power of the Keys" will not lack in interest. Last, bat not least: if it has. not been already gnessed- that something more important than mere action inspires the thyme, let these dosing words indicate it : '' The war was over — as usual, entered upon without preparation and marked by * tfnf ortunate incidents. . . . Would the average Briton realise that holding the keys of Empire was not a summer jfj&y's pastime, nor a charge to be delegated to a few men at a distance, but A trust the burden of jghicu. nu>str be

borne by every man and woman in the country."'