the volume eminently interesting, while the reflexions and applications
which the author now and then interweaves with the narrative are so
replete with practical hints on spiritual life, that they will
undoubtedly produce the best spiritual results in the reader. The style
though simple, at times graphic, is very pleasing; the narrative flows
on with equal ease and freedom.

In 1852 a priest from the Oratory of St. Philip Neri made a translation
into English from what was then the latest French edition. This French
edition came from the press in 1850. With the English translation the
original work appeared in an abridged form. The original work is divided
into six books, the English translation contains but half of these,
so rearranged for the sake of clearness that they form five books.
Most elucidations of the original work regarding characteristics of
St. Francis, events and dates that are doubtful, are omitted, likewise
most of the writings of St. Francis. The former were and still are
undergoing changes, owing to new historical researches and discoveries
made by students of Franciscan sources, while the latter were but
lately again newly translated into English and edited as completely
as possible with many critical notes and references of great value by
the scholarly Father Paschal Robinson, O.F.M.--The Writings of St.
Francis of Assisi by Father Paschal Robinson, O.F.M. The Dolphin Press,
1906.

The marvellous progress the Third Order of St. Francis is making in
this country causes the story of the life of St. Francis that is
herewith presented to the public in a newly revised edition to be
especially welcome. For all Tertiaries know that mere devotion to St.
Francis is of itself not sufficient to acquire the spirit of their
Seraphic Father; all are aware that membership in the Third Order does