RICHARD PRYNE

Nicely sustained story of the British occupation of New York, but perhaps not sizable enough in canvas and story to hit the big historical market. It might be compared to Bugles Blow No More, which pictured life going on in Richmond during the siege, since this is life on in New York during the occupation. In quieter vein than the routine war story, this traces the romance between Pryne, secret agent for Washington, and Lady Angela, English lady of quality, who supplied him with the data he needed, and who died for her beliefs, leaving him free to return to the girl back home in Long Island. But it is the background of the life of the city that gives the book its flavor. Well worn literary battlefield, in new dress.