20–12603
Beginning before the war in England we get a glimpse of the pre-war intrigues carried on by a German count, exiled in England, and his accomplices. But the greater part of the story transpires on Belgian soil in war-time showing up the ruthlessness of the Germans, and the indignities to which the Belgians were subjected. The heroism of an American boy and girl of Belgian descent furnish most of the thrills, and some fine friendships among the English aristocracy and the middle-class are depicted.
“The story is full of vigor and coloring befitting the day and scene in which it is laid.”
+ Boston Transcript p6 Jl 28 ’20 160w
“The book is very badly constructed and the character drawing amateurish, but the account of Aline’s experiences in Belgium is interesting and occasionally dramatic.”
+ − N Y Times p22 Ag 8 ’20 450w
“The book has some good episodes, but in the ordinary way it is difficult to work up much excitement, principally because the heroes and scoundrels alike ignore probabilities.”
+ − The Times [London] Lit Sup p305 My 13 ’20 130w
VAN LOON, HENDRIK WILLEM.[[2]] Ancient man. il *$3 Boni & Liveright 571