Life — January 17, 1907 — page 47: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

CCORDING to one authority, “Criminal Imagings” describes a recent publication which other critics pronounce ‘a fascinating, well-told story” and ‘‘a taleof absorbing interest.” Of course, it is unpleasant to learn from the Advance that: “The book is highly sensational and—danger- ous.” Yet this is contradicted by the Troy Times : St The ent War’ had any strength it might be classed as dangerous, inasmuch as it exploits the a: ination of millionaires, but there, is little likelihood of any danger coming from so weak a production.” If this be so, and of course Iyn Citizen is all astray in say “The book is really a strong production. It is one that sets its reader thinking.” Also the Pittsburg Bulletin : “*The Silent War’ betrays much literary skill ality—not met with often enough in modern fiction.”” then the Brook- But we gather from a scholarly, dispassionate criticism in the Bee, of San Francisco, that: “Viewed seriously, the book is rot.” However, there is hope in the opinion of the Portsmouth Chronicle that: “The story is absorbing. Although ‘The Si- lent War’ deals with a leading question of the day, it is not a problem novel, but a fascinating, well-told story.” And in the Baltimore American when telling its readers that: “The Silent War’ is a work which is likely to cause more comment and discussion than the usual novel of the'day.”” Then the Evening Mail inquires: “Has the time come yet for the appearance of terror literature of this sort in America?” Its effect upon the Army and Navy Journal was less alarming: “In ‘The Silent War’ John Ames Mitchell has still further revealed the constructive skill, fertile fancy and delicate literary workmanship which characterize his ‘Amos Judd’ and ‘The Pines of Lory.’ The present work deals in an entertaining and distinctly original vein with the great social and economic problems of our times—‘the masses against the millionaires.” Interwoven with his treatment of these questions is a dainty and wholesome love story of surpassing charm. In character-drawing the author shows no loss of skill in this new field.” It should be remembered, however, that: “This story by the author of ‘Amos Judd’ is distinctly disappointing, both in material and treatment,” if we may believe the Louisville Courier-Journal. The Truth About It book produces quite a variety of impressions. Which proves the Evansville Courier is some- thing of a liar in asserting: “The former achievements of Mr. Mitchell have been surpassed in ‘The Silent War.’ The tale is a vivid one, with plenty of action and much skill in character-drawing. The author has a subtle humor which finds its way into every chapter.” Nevertheless, it gave little pleasure to the New York Sun, for: “It would seem from ‘The Silent War’ as if an indigestion of muck-rake literature were af- flicting Mr. J. A. Mitchell.” Perhaps it was that kind of criticism that tickled the Publisher and Retailer into saying: “Tt is a joy to read the reviews of this startling and out-of-the-usual-run-of-novels, by the editor of Lire. The ‘Plute’ press has scored it glori- At the same time the book will be clasped se to many a radical bosom and remembered with regret that it was fiction, after all.” And, lastly, the Brooklyn Eagle, in a long and careful review, declares it ‘a romance of extraor- dinary interest, and remarkable for the startling originality of its central idea. Further, the story, which is the vehicle of the idea, is told with no abatement of the skill which has marked Mr. Mitchell’s other books.”” And so, we know this much, at least, that the SANDERSON’'S “Mountain Dew”’ in moderation and you will find that the life and force contained in it will be im- parted to you. Don't take ourword. Try for yourself. SURBRUG | Exclusive Importer of _ “Villa Bella” | “Havana Cigars” - | Diaz Hermanos & Co. Havana, Cuba INDIVIDUALITY of Marertat INDIVIDUALITY of WorkmansHiP INDIVIDUALITY of Each Cicar Being like its mate | PERFECT in Flavor—RICH in Aroma Yet—MILD and SWEET | i i Marnier S Grand Marnier LIQUEUR A specially choice luxury. The finest of all liqueurs. It appeals to those of refined taste and discrimination. Made in France since 1827 Sold Everywhere LUYTIES BROTHERS, NEW YORK General Agents comicbooks.com