Publisher's Synopsis
The Times.- 'Ably conceived, and ably-written stories.... Mr. Frank Harris has proved himself at once a subtle and effective writer of fiction.'
The National Observer. - ' Mr. Harris's work leaves on the mind a vivid impression. All the stories in the volume are well written and admirably constructed.'
The Academy. - 'Page after page glows with masterly invention, tender pathos, excellent wit: attributes belonging to the magicians of fiction. Its cleverness is often near akin to absolute genius; the dexterity of the writer evokes not only surprises, but rare pleasure.'
The Pall Mall Gazette. - 'The characters are clearly defined and combined with great skill; they breathe genuineness and truth. There is force and pathos, too, in the story of Bancroft and Loo Conklin.'
The Review of Reviews. - 'There is a force and a charm, a vividness and an originality about these tales which give them a high, if not the highest, place in the literature of that kind which has been produced in the last few years. Not only is there a genius in the presentation of the human types which are described, but they display a closeness of observation and a keenness of insight into the heart of things which only those who have studied western civilisation in the making can appreciate.'
The Westminster Gazette. - 'The stories are masterpieces. They grip like life. And they live with one after, as living realities.'
The Sketch. - 'There is good workmanship in Mr. Harris's volume, shown not merely in the vigorous story-telling. The inner idea in the tales is carefully wrought, and it will find a response among all readers who love sincerity.'
The Bookman. - 'Elder Conklin is a masterly picture of heroism and paternal love, of rare intensity and refinement, co-existing with capacities for hideous selfishness and cruelty.'
The Glasgow Herald. - 'Mr. Harris's excellent stories may be heartily recommended to all.'