The detail [in The Ferlie] is right, both human and traditional. The narrative moves in the proper traditional way. But ultimately the story lacks in the telling that proper grace and flow which a fairy tale really needs to make its full effect.

"Ordinary and Extraordinary Powers," in The Times Literary Supplement (© Times Newspapers Ltd. (London) 1968; reproduced from The Times Literary Supplement by permission), No. 3,484, December 5, 1968, p. 1376.∗