Hall, James Norman. _An Autumn Sojourn in Iceland_, in _Harper’s Magazine_, January 1924; _The Narrative of a Journey_, in _Harper’s Magazine_, December 1923. Morley, Christopher. _Travels in Philadelphia_. David McKay Company. Pratt, Alice D. _The Round-Up_, from _The Homesteader’s Portfolio_. The Macmillan Company. CHAPTER XI _Sketches_ The phrase “a mere sketch,” which one often encounters, seems to indicate that the sketch is an inferior and undesirable type of writing. This expression probably reflects the greater popularity of the short-story with its complete plot and wealth of action; the sketch has, however, its own admirers, and is not under obligation to contest the popularity of the short story. Its charm lies not in action or in climax, but in the perfection with which it creates the atmosphere of a place or presents the portrait of a person, and at its best it produces an effect which is not easily forgotten. It is true that the sketch has action, but not the action of a logical succession of events leading inevitably to a definite climax. Rather, the sketch leads the reader through the normal succession of those hours or days of which we are so likely to say, “Nothing happens,” though the life may be rich in values and full of color and feeling. The action is leisurely, and the end of the sketch may leave the characters in much the same situation in which the beginning found them, but the reader has been enabled to enter into their lives to such an extent that they can never again be strangers to him. Stevenson’s “Lantern Bearers,” for example, is not told for the sake of any single event, contains no story suitable for the cinema, but by means of description and variety of incidents, it initiates the reader into the circle of the boyish lantern bearers. Likewise, in “Kermis Morning” there is no memorable occurrence, but a picture full of color and life and people, a picture which makes you a breathing spectator at the holiday celebration. If you have an interest in places or people as well as in events, choose one of your favorites, and invite the reader as a guest, not in the hope that he may witness thrilling events, but rather that he may know the reason for your delight, and share it with you. In writing a sketch, the beginner may find the following suggestions helpful: 1. Choose a subject which is permeated by human feeling: sorrow, joy, love, devotion, or despair. 2. Avoid long introductions. Let the subject explain itself. 3. Remember that sense appeals, particularly the use of color and sound, are of great help in giving atmosphere, without which you cannot have a sketch. F. del P. THE LANTERN BEARERS ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON