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Show ART AND THE MASSES. ' Pessimistic critics and soured litera-teurs litera-teurs are rather apt to declare that a man cannot write with greaf art and at the same time appeal to the masses. There is disproof of their assertion, and support for those who view the book world optimistically, In Joseph Conrad, the author of "Lord Jim" and of a new book, "Youth," which McClure, Phillips Phil-lips & Company are Just publishing. Those who have read "Lord Jim" need not be told that Conrad writes with a refinement that is almost stupendous. Though Uterary art sticks out all over his work, he always has subject matter that is vitally Interesting. A popular author, who has recently gone into politics, is a Conrad enthusiast. At a dinner which he gave to his ward heelers heel-ers and henchmen after election, he was drawn Into a eulogy of his favorite. A black-mustached Irish ward boss, with a black cigar in his mouth, Joined the discussion, and the young author, with tact, recommended his political ally to read "Lord Jim." "Lord Jim." echoed the Irishman, "Humph, I've read that book through twice a year for the last three years." This general feeling for Mr. Conrad' book is reflected In the reception which his new book has received. A week before the date of publication the first edition- was exhausted and a second went to press. |