LYLE SAXON'S TIMELESS impressions of colorful New Orleans, first recorded more than half a century ago, not only reveal inherent mystery and frivolity, but also recall the city's elaborate history, spanning more than two cen-turies and three cultures. The various aspects of the French, Spanish, and Creole societies, which continue to define today's city, are documented here through wide-ranging vignettes of daily life and elaborate rituals. A view of the Creole courtyard, an account of the first settlers, and a glimpse of the Zulu parade are typical of the many episodes from which the spirit of the city emerges. The great charm and spirit of "the city that care forgot" are reflected vividly in the quaint sketches of E. H. Suydam. He portrays the timeless and exotic aspects of New Orleans, along with the carefree atmosphere that lingers today. Saxon's wonderful tales of the city and its people chronicle the splendor, vivacity, and excitement that have always characterized New Orleans. This spirit not only has endured in the decades since Saxon's time, but con-tinues to flourish today. Saxon is also the author of Old Louisiana, Gumbo Ya- Ya, Lafitte the Pirate, and Children of Strangers, all of which have also been reprinted by Pelican Publishing Company.