ABSTRACT
Mr Gissing's new story will surprise many of his admirers; I trust it will not alienate them. It is very short, and very amusing. As a rule, his novels are lengthy and lugubrious, the reader not objecting to these sombre qualities because of the gripping power and notable sincerity evident on every page. Strength and truth are again apparent; the lightness oftouch, the 'fun' ofthe new story are the astonishing revelations. Yet there is pathos in the book for those who have eyes to see, pathos none the less real because only hinted at. Miss Derrick, thepaying guest, is drawn by a master hand. No doubt the prosaically worthy couple at 'Runnymeade' found her a great nuisance while slie stayed with them at their magnificently named suburban villa. One can feel a good deal of sympathy for them, but they who interpret the story acutely will think still more kindly of the unfortunate young woman. Even Mr Gissing will fmd it hard to equal The Paying Guest. It is a subtle study of human nature, an excellent bit of writing and composition.
