A timely cultural portrait by a British journalist, Francophile and, since 1995, editor of Hong Kong's South China Morning Post. It's a lively account, interweaving current events, travel, commentary history and culture. A practiced journalist with a 40-year history in France, Fenby is a terrific guide to the Gallic character. Apart from his obvious wit and love of life, Fenby's addiitonal credentials include a French wife -- and a French Order of Merit.  (FRN175, $16.95)