It is a clean, forcible interesting book, most moderate in tone; and giving a long list of scientific authorities.
*
Now for an amusing book!
This is "Marriage as a Trade," by Cicely Hamilton, a clever and forcible
English writer, co-author of that delicious little play "How The Vote
Was Won."
A keen and accurate weapon is Miss Hamilton's pen; and in this work she uses it with delicious dexterity to prick bubbles, to slice off masks, cut veils and bandages, and dissect ancient idols.
Her special matter in discussion is exactly given in the title, and she does not stray from her theme; but brings out, sharply and inescapably, the universal fact, that marriage, to a woman, is not only a happiness (or a grief!), not only a duty, or at least a natural function, but a trade—she earns her living by it!
Miss Hamilton points out very forcibly that not all women are fitted by nature for following the same trade, that not all of them like it; that it produces low grade work and discontented lives; and that many women would infinitely prefer working at some other business.
The value of this book is is the sharp light thrown on this large subject from the woman's view—or at least from a woman's view; and one that will be shared by many others.
Its amusing quality is for those who like trenchant wit and penetrating satire.
*