BAILEY, HENRY CHRISTOPHER. Barry Leroy. *$2 Dutton
20–4707
“When the story opens Barry is a spy in the service of Napoleon; the war is on between France and England. Barry had learned to believe in the people who were fighting for liberty and equality. But there comes a time when Barry’s regard for the French consul is turned to contempt and hatred. The abduction and execution of the Duc d’Enghien, whom Barry knew to be loyal to Napoleon, was the cause of his revolt. Asserting that he would never forgive the Little Corsican for his cold-blooded treachery, he goes over to the other side and offers his services to the British. He forces a duel on Nelson at one moment and saves his life at the risk of his own at another.”—N Y Times
“Rather disconnected and has not quite the charm or vivacity of ‘The gamesters’ or ‘The highwaymen.’”
+ − Booklist 16:345 Jl ’20
“In criticizing Mr Bailey’s methods in portraying his most difficult figures, I would not subtract from the extent of his accomplishment. He has, we must admit, failed in Napoleon and Nelson. ‘Barry Leroy’ is an excellent story in spite of this lack. It possesses the fine dash, the romance, the joy of adventure for itself, that we have come to associate with other times than our own.” D. L. M.
+ − Boston Transcript p6 Ag 4 ’20 1050w
“Throughout the book the action never lags; there are no dull moments. As a spy-story having an historic background and interwoven with a charming love affair, ‘Barry Leroy’ is above the average in construction and sustained interest.”
+ N Y Times 25:168 Ap 11 ’20 500w