ABOUT BOOK

This novel may be recommended to those who desire a book to steady the nerves, like a mild narcotic. Here is nothing disquieting, but everything as it should be. and in its proper place. Maria is good and self-sacrificing; Knaus is just dull enough to give her occasion for the exercise of her virtues by falling in love with Susanna, who is just hateful enough to serve her as a foil; and there is a keen and experienced old aunt, who serves, all by herself, the purposes of a Greek chorus, and tells the reader what he is to think of the others and their doings.