mi ii JJJJP LIBRARY OP THK University of California. Mrs. SARAH P. WALSWORTH. Received October, i8q4. ^Accessions No. . Class No. wmW^^^:' COURSE OF ENGLISH EEADING, ADAPTED TO EVERY TASTE AND CAPACITY: ANECDOTES OE MEN OF GENIUS. BY THE REV. JAMES PYCROFT, B. A. TRINITY COLLEGE, OXFORD. PHILADELPHIA: CAREY & HART, 126 CHESNUT STREET. 1845. -J ^\^\ STERLlJTVrED HY 1.. JOHNSllN. PRINTED BV T. K & P. G. COLLINS, I>!1 ILA Dll.r I! 1/ PREFACE. Miss Jane C. divided her indoor hours into three parts : the housekeeping and dinner-ordering cares of life claimed one part ; hearing two younger sisters say their lessons a second part; and during the third and most delightful remainder she would lock herself up in Ker bedroom, and move on the marker of Russell's "Modern Europe" at the rate of never less than fifteen pages an hour, and sometimes more. Being so vexatious as to ask wherein her satisfaction consisted, I was told — in the thought that she did her duty; that she kept her resolution, and exercised self- denial ; that she read as much as the best educated of her friends ; that continually fewer histories remained to read ; that labour sweetened leisure, and that she hoped one day to excel in literature. A few torturing questions elicited that all the labour, all the self-denial, and all the resolution aforesaid, had not produced any sensible increase, or more than a vague but anxious expectation, of available information, love of study, confidence in society, or mental improvement. In short, my very deserving friend was all but convinced that there was some truth in the everlasting annoying remark of a certain jealous and idle companion, that she was " stupefying her brains for no good." A few days after I received a letter, from which I extract the following : — " I'll tell you what : — I will never forgive your vexatious sifting of my ways and means of reading, if you do not sit down and write me a list of books which mill do me good ; and such plans and contrivances of study as may enable me to improve as fast as you say that my incessant toil and trouble deserve. Now, mind — I'll follow your plan to the letter, and if it does not succeed, the fault must be yours." In reply, I gave half an hour's instructions, which led to such an increase in the knowledge, the entertainment, the habits of reflection, and sense of improvement of my pupil, that, after modifying the same instructions to suit the taste and capacity of other literary young ladies and literary young gentlemen, and after putting their value repeatedly to the test, I venture to publish them in the following pages. J. P. Bath, May 15, 1844. SUMMAKY OF COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. Haw to study HISTORY generally, 21. of Britain generally, 22. An outline of the whole, and particular instructions for making our fort, or strong point, one of six memorable eras ; viz. 1. Till the Conquest. 2. Middle ages — -feudal system — chivalry — crusades. 3. Commencement of Modem History, as marked by printing, — gunpowder, — the compass, — discovery of America, — Colonial System, — Reformation. 4. The Civil Wars. 5. The Revolution of 1688. 6. From George III. to the present time,!]"- V^"^ ^®^5 H5® French Revolution, with special instructions for studying;") ^- To the end of the Revolutionary war, of Modern Europe generally, 27. Particu^^r instructions for making our fort ox strong point, one of seven eras ; viz. 1 . The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. 2. The Revival of Learning. 3. The Religious Wars in the Low Countries. 4. The Thirty Years' War. 5. The French Revolution. 6. History of America and the West. 7. British India and other Colonies. of Rome, advice addressed to youths while yet at school ; or to candidates for scholarships, 31, 37. to candidates for University honours and Fellowships, 32, 37. to ladies andgeneral readers, 32, 37. light and entertaining study of, 33. of Greece, advice addressed to youths reading for scholarships, 33, 37. to candidates for University honours and Fellowships, 34, 37. to ladies and general readers, 36, 37. light and entertaining study of, 37. of Man, 40. The Wonders of Creation and Natural Phenomena, 42. The Arts, Sciences, Literature, and comparative superiority of different Nations, 42. Notice of most interesting and exciting Narratives of Land and Sea, 43. The Manners and Customs, and the general state of different Nations, 43. The Politics, Institutions, and Economy of Nations, 43. The Ruins of Ancient Cities and Antiquities, 43. Works, entertaining and illustrative of Classical and Sacred Literature, 44. Preparatory to a Tour in Britain, or on the Continent, 44. Most pleasantly and profitably, by illustrated books, 44, 45. PHILOSOPHY, Moral, Political, Mental,— Metaphysics, — Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric, Phrenology, Physiology, 45, 48. THE FINE ARTS, by a method very easy and entertaining, 48, 51. Painting, — Elements of Criticism, History of Art, &c. 48. Sculpture, 50. Architecture, 51. THE SCRIPTURES, in six Divisions, viz. 1. The Text, — the Word, (comparing passages, — interesting illustration, — rei)eating, — writing proofs, — Scriptural common-place book.) 2. Commentaries and Notes. 3. Biblical Antiquities, — Jewish History, — Translations. 4. Doctrines,— Articles,— the Prayer Book,— Books for Controversialists,— Defence of the Church. 5. The principal Writers in order : ri. The Fathers. 2. The Schoolmen, o vj- •• r *u -3. The Reformers. Subdivisions of the prm- J 4 -pj^g successors of the Reformers. cipal Writers. 5. The Non-conformists. 6. The Divines of the Restoration and Revolution. 7. Modern Writers. 6. Practical Books, for the Closet. POETRY, — Criticism, — Taste, 57, 58. NATURAL PHILOSOPHY in all its Branches, — Notice of simple Treatises, 58. How to rememher what ive read, — Rules simple and practicable, 39. How to keep a Common-jylace Book, 59. A COURSE ENGLISH READING. All the world would allow that a traveller would pass more easily from any one point to any other point by having a distinct picture of the road before he started. All the world would approve of a tra- veller's stopping once or twice in his journey, and asking himself, " To what place am I going?" and " Is this the best way to reach it ?" But how many myriads in this world aforesaid do set out on the long and intricate road of life without a map, and, while they can only keep moving, never stop to ask whe- ther they are in their latitude or out of it. So blindly do men run after all the imaginary prizes of life, and just as blindly do they pursue any one of them. Con- sider intellectual pursuits. Many young persons have said to me, "I should so like to possess general in- formation, and to be well read, like our very amusing friend. Is it not strange that, amidst all the toils of a most engrossing protession, he can find time to ac- quire so much knowledge on every subject?" " Not at all ; a few minutes a day, well employed, will be quite enough." "Really I do not find it so. What I read very rarely interests me ; so I forget nearly as fast as I read, and grow more and more confused." " Too little interest, and too much confusion ! Real- ly you have enough to complain of. Do you know that this may constitute all the diiference between, your acquirements and those of our friend ?" " But he is so clever." "Can he do as much in one hour as you can in six?" "No I I am sure he cannot. I see your argument. I know you are going to remind me I have more than six times the number of hours to study." " Is there no one subject on which you feel your- self equal to him ? Think of gardening, drawing, scriptural reading," &c. " True, but I am so fond of the subjects ; for •" " You would say your attention never flags, and your memory never fails." "Just so. But I am not so fond of some other subjects, which still I very much wish to know." " But do you not remember a time when you were not ao fond even of these favourite subjects ?" " Certainly ; you would infer therefore " "I would infer what I positively have experienced }>oth in myself and others, that we may acquire a fond- ness and interest for study, and that under good guid- ance it is hardly ever loo late to begin." " And the advice you intend to give me is founded on " "Is founded on certain simple and self-evident means of creating an interest in all we read, and thus insuring attention, and consequently memory. Sup- pose you wished to nourish a man's body, you would say, ' Feed him.' ' But he does not digest.' ' Pro- bably he has no appetite ?' ' Yes ; he will eat some few things.' ' Then choose these few ; attend to his appetite, and by that judge when and what he can digest.' So with the mind ; attend to the curiosity, which is the appetite of the mind, and be sure that whatever the mind receives with avidity will tend to its maturity and strength." In this way I have reasoned with many of my friends : I have had the satisfaction of seeing my ad- vice followed, and attended with more success than I ever anticipated. One pupil in particular is now pre- sent to my mind, and that a lady — a circumstance most encouraging to all who distrust their own abili- ties — and it is her e.xperience especially which induces me to think that the same advice may be generally useful. My prescriptions, I trust, are not like the panacea of the day, the same for all patients in all stages ; but such as, being based on the same prin- ciples of mental health, are nicely inodified to suit every age and constitution. If my rules seem ob- vious, and what all well-educated persons may be presumed to know, I answer, Do we not often hear readers say, I hke a book that begins at the beginning of a subject — that presumes not that I have know- ledge, but that I am generally ignorant ? Have the best informed never searched for information, though with affected indifference — they would not, on any ac- count, be seen to do so — even in a child's story-book, or penny catechism ? Hesiod, as quoted by Aristotle, divides the world into three classes :— the first have sense of their own ; the second use the sense of their neighbours ; the third do neither one nor the other. Now all the advice I have to offer is addressed to the second class, with a slight hope and a sincere desire to make converts of the third. As to arrangement, I will not promise to be very exact. As a traveller in the boundless fields of literature, I shall take the privilege of describing fair flowers and curiosities as they occurred to me, and to quote the very words of many fellow-travellers, some pointing out my way, and some asking theirs. Full well I know that a man who will stand forth like a witness in a court of justice, and say not what he thinks, but what he knows and has seen, and sometimes what effect these occurrences produced upon his mind, may find his humble testi- mony decide knotty questions and promote high pur- poses he knew not of. Thus, by truth copieH from the plain tablets of memory, do I resolve to try so to lay down the law that each may find his ovvn case, and to hold up a mirror in which every man may see himself. The first case that occurs to me — the case of nearly .ill who have the ambition, but not the method, to be literary characters — is the following : — A young lady of great intelligence asked, "What would you re- commend me to read?" "That depends on what you have been reading lately— the new matter must assimilate with the old, or it will not digest." " Well, then, I have read nearly all Hume and Smollett, and I want to know some more of the his- tory of England, and the continental nations too— shall I read Russell's Modern Europe ?" "Excuse me for saying you have rather a large a2 5 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. ground-plan for your hietorical edifice. Will you be able to build up in proportion ? Remember the Tower of Babel and the confusion of tongiies. A dozen and a half of thick volumes! Can you re- member all this ?" " Oh no. The worst of it is I cannot remember even common facts, succession of kings, wars and peace, and the like, which even children know from their little books. I was so long over Hume, that I forgot the first part before I had read the last." "And if you had only read the child's history through twice, you would possess more real know- ledge at the present moment." This was allowed : my pupil also agreed that Hume dwelt too long on some topics in which she felt no in- terest, and loo little on others ; that with all long histories it was difHcult to grasp the outline of events so comprehensively as to enjoy the advantage of com- paring one period with another, and that in proportion as these defects caused her interest to be less, it re- quired her perseverance to be greater. An admission ■which called to mind the expression of another litera- ry pilgrim, who exclaimed from the very slough of despair, "What am I to try next — I have w-aded through two volumes of Russell, and am heartily tired by a third?" I now took a sheet of paper and drew what was intended for an historical tree. The trunk bore in straggling capitals the words Hume and Smollett ; and in smaller letters the names of the sovereigns, each of whom was allowed a space commensurate with hisreign. "Here," I said, " you have one con- tinuous history, as it were, the stem and prop, or the connected chain of your knowledge : — a less sub- stantial supporter than Himie would do as well at present, because you seem to have forgotten (which is about the same thing as never having read) his His- tory. I wish you to have a comprehensive knowledge of this whole chain, so take the History of England' by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, one small duodecimo of 140 pages, price Is. "id. This you may know thoroughly in four or five days; and afterwards keep it in mind by writing out the answers of the questions given at the end. In this way your chain of history will be connected, and you may learn to run over in your mind all the events from Queen Boadicea to Queen Victoria without the book ; at least I have known children of ten years of age do so." " Then what shall I do with Hume ?" "I'll tell you: Hume's history will strengthen particular parts of this fine chain 1 have mentioned, and make the imaginary trunk the thicker and better able to bear leaves and support the weight of branches. Yon will guess that by the leaves and offshoots I mean biographies and other works read in connection ; the desire for which will be excited by this chain of reading, or grow out of the tree of history." " But how am I to do this, and with amusement too; for you promised it should be amusing, and with lees bootless labour than I have been enduring hither- to, for my studies have been literally ' bubble, bubble, toil and trouble ?' " " Tell me, first, what desire or curiosity has grown out of your chain of reading?" " Why, I have a curiosity to know more of Ridley, Cranmer, and those glorious martyrs." " First cast your eye over the three or four pages of Mary's reign in the little history, you will then have a vivid recollection of their times ; and then read a separate account of these champions of Christen- dom in some other books." " Just so ; but then must I go through four or five volumes of the Reformation ?" " There is no kind of necessity ; continue to read about the martyrs as long as your curiosity lasts. ' Outlines of the History of England, price 25 cents, republished by Carey & Hart, Philadelphia, who now renublish the entire series of School Books printed in England by the Society for the Diflriasion of Christian Knowledge. You may find a short mention of them in a Cyclo- paedia or Biographical Dictionary ;2 or you may turn to a full and graphic account in Southey's Book of the Church, by help of the Index. See, I keep my pro- mise ; when ' toil and trouble begins or interest ends,' I say, stop and read something else." My friend was laudably solicitous as to whether all this was sound advice : she thought " that where there was no pain, there would be no cure;" so besides urging my own experience, I sought and found au- thority, and that, by the way, in a book in which au- thority may be found on subjects almost as multifa- rious as we would expect in a famous book purporting to treat De quolibet ente et multis aliis rebus ; " about every thing in the world, and many other things besides." Dr. Johnson said that for general improvement a man should read whatever his immediate inclination prompted him to take up: he added, " What we read with inclination makes a much stronger impression. If we read without inclination, half the mind is em- ployed in fixing the attention, so there is but one half to be employed on what we read;"^ and this the Doctor said when sixty-seven years had rolled over his sober head. This was a case in point ; hut I soon found one bearing still more forcibly on my argument. "Idle- ness is a disease which must be combated ; but I would not advise a rigid adherence to a particular plan of study." My plan requires no rigid adherence, but allows full latitude, as the Doctor goes on to re- quire. " r, myself, have never persisted in any plan for two days together. A man ought to read just as inclination leads him, for what he reads as a task will do him little good." — Vol. ii. p. 213. My advice will not, I trust, be found at variance with that of the Doctor: I would give to power all the direction of method without cramping the strong spring of inclination. Where two books, or two courses of reading, are equally amusing, there is no hardship in being ordered to choose the one which is the more improving. This advice was followed. A few evenings after, I found my pupil had read with the sharp edge of curiosity, and so, of course, had digested lives of Ridley and Cranmer, and, which I anticipated, had become curious still further about Henry VIII., Ed- ward VI., and Mary. " What !" Isaid; "howcame these characters to interest you more to-day than when you read of them in Hume?" "Because," was the natural reply, " the association was different. I care more about those who fought or befriended the pope, than about men who lost heads or won crowns, to say nothing of long chapters about primogeniture, in which, by the way, our friend is so accurate ; but I understand it is only from association with his law books." It was now seen what I meant, that every person has a kind of peculiar curiosity, on attention to the dictates of which his memory and improvement depend. This curiosity is an appetite which "grows by what it feeds on." Let me relate another passage from my perceptorial diary : — " A most wonderfully retentive memory has that Captain Evans we met yesterday : he talks on every subject ; I only wonder that Mr. Wood, when here on his circuit, did not seem to think more of him." " I should wonder more if he did ; the captain talks for effect : he has more vanity than love of literature: you would lake Mr. Wood's opinion of him ;" and he remarked what a bore the man was ; that he went away like a steam- engine in his own line, but cloerged the moment he got off" of it ; pursued no game but what he himself had started, and conld fight but badly on his o\yn ground, and was no match for the poorest antagonist on any other. Strangely enough, there was another person in the same company, of known depth and 2 Encyclopedia Americana, edited by Dr. Leiber, in 13 volumes, Svo. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. sBoswell, vol. vi. p. 163. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. research, who heard this "captain bold" without taking the trouble to correct his facta, or question his conclusions; and who also observed the next day he "only wished men would not worry their friends in the evening with what they had read without under- standing the very same morning." How true is the observation that men who have not studied some one subject as a profession, or with as much assiduity and thought as a profession requires, having no standard of accuracy, can rarely trust themselves to speak be- fore sound men on any single topic. Lies, whether expressed or implied, (and what is affectation but lies in a state of solution,) always discourage truth, and the humble endeavours of simple honesty: and so in the present instance ; a 5'outh honourably desirous of improvement was almost persuaded by the empty pretensions of a shallow reader of what is most aptly called the light literature of the day, to wit, not weighty enough to survive till the morrow, that the knowledge worthy of a proper man is beyond ordi- nary ability to attain. Let a vain, chattering character read the latest ar- ticle in the " United Service Magazine," talk at "the reading-room door on the contents with some of those party gentlemen who are to be seen in every town like China jars, or male Caryatides, daily fixtures, for fear any stranger should want a clue to the fashion- able library ; and with the sum-total of remarks and illustrations so collected ; let him talk loud and long lo the next company he meets, and he will be regarded as the man of general information. The ignorant do Tjot discover the cheat, and the wise despise too much to expose it, or should they venture to qualify the general praise, they are called jealous, and pass un- regarded. " Well," said my young friend, "all I know is, I should have felt more comfortable had I known more of the subject he was discussing. 'J'he last Vi^ar — Na- poleon—Nelson — and the Duke, are matters about which I have a very confused and shallow stock of information. How should I proceed? — ' Gurwood's Despatches,' Alison, volumes of Southey on the Peninsula, and others on the Revolution, will take me so long, I shall starve for want of knowledge be- fore I gain it at this slow rate." He was soon made to understand that these were not the books to begin with, and M'as warned with the mention of Robinson Crusoe's boat, too big to launch, and his first plan of a goat-pen, two miles round, which would have given him as little property in his flock as if he had no pen at all. My friend saw that long historical works, and most others, consist of two parts : — First, facts. Secondly, observations on facts. As to the facts, he did not want to know thorough- ly all the minutias mentioned in the books above men- tioned — a perfect knowledge of a very small portion would satisfy him for the present ; undoubtedly : nay more, a small collection would serve as standards round which other ideas might rally, as fixed points, for association, in aid of memory, and as links, how- ever coarse, to make the chain complete, without a break, till time were allowed to substitute hnks stronger and more minute. This youth had also the confidence to allow that, by comparison of facts, he might discern what were effects and what causes, and so have a home supply of observations ; for the larger stock of ideas we import the less we grow, and the more minds fall out of cultivation. I encouraged him with the prospect of becoming in course of time almost exclusively his own grower and consumer as to ob- servations : and when books are to be read for culling facts alone, and most observations passed by as being already known, he saw that cumbrous volumes would in effect be considerably reduced in size, and asked, "Is this the reason I see you with a book on your favourite subject, turning over the leaves without seeming to read five lines out of a page ?" " Yes, frequently five lines are enough to show what the author is going to observe, and by degrees we obtain the same facility in reading facts as observalionK. Did you not see mo the other day pa.-is over nearly a whole chapter of travels in llussiii? The reason wat; thai the table of contents showed me that it contained substantially the same matter as ti voliune I had jus: before read on the same subject." However, let no readers be encouraged by those observations to fall into a careless and desultory habit of study. I allow ihem to miss what they already know: 1 do not say what they have already read. Accurate reading and reflection are their own reward, hy saving time and trouble in the end. Sheridan truly remarked, "In- stead of always reading, think, think, on every sub- ject : there are only a few leading ideas, and these we may excogitate for ourselves.' ' While others talk of so many hours of study daily, and so many books read, those who really improve think of questions solved and clear knowledge attained of definite sub- jects. " So, my friend," I continued, "to gain con- fidence in speaking of Napoleon and his contempora- ries, take first of all a book of facts ; do as I did some years since, in idle time, by the sea-side: — I took Miller's History of George III.,' one double-columned volume of 400 pages ; giving something like an epi- tome of the newspapers, from 1760 to 1820, and bearing on each page, in two or three places, lines in capitals, drawing attention to the respective topics, as in pages 332 and 333 ; Advance of the British into Spain, under Sir John Moore ; again, Sir J. Moore's Retreat; again. Battle of Corunna, and Death ci Moore.'-' I commenced at p. 207, which gave the history of the end of the year 1789 : I wrote on the top of every page " .v. D. 17 — , or a. d. 18 — ," and in this manner my book became a ready book of reference for any newspaper allusion to the days of our lathers. A few days' rending took mo through the 200 pages which gave the history from the beginning of the Revolution to the death ot George III. Still 1 intended to read the saine two or three times more. I was in haste to complete, as I say, my chain in a fair, substantial way first, and strengthen it afterward''. I did not read from end to end; but when tired, I used to dip into interesting parts, such as victories and state trials ; so this history suited me in all humours, whether as a novel or work of memory. It would puzzle any one to guess what parts made m.ost impression on my memory: they were not " t!;e moving incidents b\ flood and field," but facts which others might have overlooked, and so should I, only they happened at different times to have formed the subject of conver- sation in my presence, and thus became matters ol special interest to me. Remember there is a maxim artiong lawyers, that private reading makes little im- pression till legal practice shows its use, and fixes attention to important points. Daily intercourse with men and books serves the general reader as practice serves the lawyer; by fixing attention, it insures me- mory. Nor is this the only point of comparison. Do you think any lawyer's knowledge can comprehend all the ponderous volumes in Lincoln's Inn library, and these, to the uninitiate9> seem equally deserving of study? Certainly not. Then how do they know which to choose as most useful for preparing to meet and answer all cases that occur ? Practice shows the nature of the general demand, and this, almost exclu- sively, they prepare to supply. So the general reader, like the lawyer, must study to be strong on those points on which not only his own consciousness but the strength of those he encounters shows his weak- ness. This leads me to remark why the same book may be read again and again with continually in- creasing interest and profit, because the interval be- tween each reading will call attention to a new order of facts, and elicit a new series of conclusions. All this I draw faithfully from the history of the progress of my own mind. ' Miller's History of George III., published together with Hume and Smollett in 4 large vols. 8vo., by Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co., Philsuielphia. '» 8 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. "And how did you proceed -wlien you liad read this part of history once ?" "I had a friend who was fond of discussing the same subject ; one who had long Uved by the sea, conversed with naval officers, listened with me to many an hour's yarn from an old I'rafalgar man, while cruising in the Ivose yacht off Tenby and Caldy, and had often surprised me with the apparent extent of his knowledge. His conversation added to my interest, and made my reading more profitable. I then read Southey's Life of Nelsori, and the Life of Napoleon, 2 vols., in the Family Library.' These hooks are quite easy reading, except allusions to the iiistory of the times, a knowledge of which is alvva5's indispensable to one who would read for real im- provement ; and this knowledge, I would add, makes the sound and accurate man, and distinguishes our well-read friend from the loquacious captain. On so good an opportunity let me add a word of caution. I have suggested sometimes ' to read and skip,' but to skip only the known, not the unknown. These his- torical allusions I readily found out, by looking over the occurrences of the same year in my history. Thus, while the history explained the biography, the biography drew attention to the history. True it is that all readers may occasionally be at a loss for an aUusion; if they do their best to explain it, this is immaterial ; but those literary epicures who touch nothing but dainties, and pick all books for the amus- ing, will never enjoy a sound intellectual constitution, but will acquire an unnatural appetite, no longer a criterion of their ability to digest. Once form a habit of humouring yourself with reading solely and exclusively what pleases at the moment, once blunt the natural sense of satisfaction, which to the sound mind results from doing things thoroughly, and from that moment you have bartered the literary resources 'of a life for the excitement of an hour. This custom of referring to explain allusions, need not check the , interest of your subject. I often mark on a blank leaf a mark of interrogation, and against this set the number of the pages containing difficulties, till I have finished reading, and then make all the references at once. Even if you should not succeed in your search at the time, this practice will fix the difficulties in j'our memory so firmly that you will be on the alert for any remark in your subsequent reading that can throw light upon them. And what was the result of this line of reading ? The result was, that my friend was more surprised at the accuracy of my knowledge of his favourite parts of modern history, than I had ever been of his ; and even touching naval history, he could tell me little that I did not know. Now, observe, this was an idle man who had nothing to do but to read every periodical or new pubhcation of interest; he had read dozens of volumes on the topics on which I had read but three. At the time I was sur- prised ; but observation has since made me fully alive to these seeming anomalies. My knowledge, I knew, was shallow, but his no longer seemed deep. This gave me confidence. I have since found that there are very, very few general readers, who are so strong on any one topic, that a man of ordinary abihty, with method in his application — a method which in these pages I hope to impart — may not greatly surpass them with a few days of diligent study." To continue my method with history : Miller's book has since served me as a book of reference, and stands on the same shelf with my Biographical and other Dictionaries. Its use is to show at one view a picture of those by-gone days and departed heroes, of whom we hear old gentlemen talk, when they are wicked enough to perpetrate a little conversational monopoly, and swell with a very innocent kind of self-importance, as they tell the cold perspiration that came over their patriotic hrows the morning they lieard of the mutiny in the fleet, or the Bank stopping payment ; and how the}' laughed and triumphed in ; • Southey's Life of Nelson, price 50 cents, in , Harper's Family Library. the truth of, if not their own, at least some near re- lative's prognostication that Nelson would find the foe and beat him too ; how melancholy they felt as his funeral passed, and how they felt for the honest tars who followed in the mournful throng. To all such conversadon listen, by all means, most atten- tively; but since what you will learn from it is often inaccurate, and always unconnected, instead of being satisfied with half a story, go at once to the book to ascertain time, place, and cliaracters, and then "give to airy nothing a local habitation and a name." On this principle, in reading Ireland's Seven Years of France, from 1815 — 22, 1 cast my eye over the pages of Miller, on which I had marked the corresponding seven years : I did the same before reading every other book relating to the same period. But I shall be re- minded that I promised to make my course amusing ; and most amusing was the method I am relating ; for, in course of time, I took all the old Reviews and Maga- zines, and picked only such articles as were amusing : but at that time the sphere of my amusement was enlarged ; my mind was stored with facts on which I thirsted for more minute information ; and since all the essays I so read, I read whh an appetite, all were readily digested. In order to register my reading, and preserve order in my studies, I used to mark on the margin of the History what books or essays gave exact information on different subjects, vide Southey, p. — , or Gentleman's Magazine, No. — ; or read Mackintosh's Observations on the French Revolu- tion, ^ p. — ; Burke's Opinion, see Life, p. — . The time at which reading is most improving, is when, as you read the table of contents, you feel im- patience to begin the chapter, as containing exactly the facts you want to know — the very observations you wish to compare with your own. And this eager curiosity and zest for reading with a proper method, will have a continually wider field for its exertion, till at last every book will have its interest. Did you never hear a man fond of literature say, " Give me any book ; I do not mind what it is." While asking this question, there rises before me a vision of one, an accomplished scholar and hard-worked man of active life, standing amidst a nursery of children, so riveted on one of their story books picked off the floor, that the young fry, spite of all their pulling at his skirts, and cHnging to his knees, despaired in their impatience at moving him, till one cried, "Ah! I knew if we did not keep our picture books away from him, he would not let ue ride on his foot till he had read them all through." None but those so eminently blessed with mental endowments, can conceive all the pleasures which spring from the well-formed and fertile mind ; it seems ready fitted with little cells for all sweets; to have a distinct pigeon-hole for every kind of commu- nication : all it receives has a tendency not to dissolve and darken, but to crystaUize in brilliancj' and beauty ; however extended its chain, each link ends in a hook for joining more. These are the minds which in society give almost as much pleasure as they enjoy : they find companions even in those whom their friends feel disposed to apologize for asking them to meet. Dr. Johnson said he would rather sit next an intelli- gent man of the world than a scholar ; for the man who has learned life from nature's own volume is provided with a supply as varied and as rich as is the store from which he draws ; he can repay with genuine undipped coin, in bold relief, fresh from nature's mint ; however small his after-dinner contribution to the common fund of entertainment, it still is sterling, pure, and unadulterated ; and as Gray said of Bos- well's Corsica, that it proved any man with talent or without could write a useful book, if he would only faithfully, and without affectation, detail what he had seen and heard in a sphere which the rest of the world had never seen, and was curious to know : so the man of well-formed mind regards companions ; he is fully prepared to be entertained by the humblest re- lator of " things that he doth know :" he consequent- ly is qualified to be always pleasing ; for be it observed, A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. men please in society not in proportion as they inform, but as they elicit ; and who are so formed to elicit as those who, by the course of study here recommended, are rendered not vain-glorious to poor forth, but ha- bitually intent on the great end of all company and conversation — to hear, and observe, and be improved ? These remarks will suffice to give a general view of the system I have to propose. Let us now con- sider the various subjects of the general reader — His- tory, Biography, Poetry, &.c., and show with what authors, and what method, each line of study should be pursued. And here let it be clearly understood, once for all, that I am not prescribing for the sound and vigorous patient, and unwearied man of letters, but for the delicate, weak, and sickly appetite, which requires humouring and coaxing at first to bring it to health and strength, when I am sure no advice of this kind will be required. If any say, " What a shallow course this is!" I reply, "this is precisely what I intend it to be ; still it is too deep unhappily for many." First let us resume a topic on which wc already touched. I can explain my method better with some subject-matter as an example, so we will consider English History. Chinese scholars are divided into two classes, says a traveller, those who read only, and those who un- derstand what they read. This distinction may be drawn nearer home. Those who read and those who remember, we have all observed, are often different parties, and so also are those who remember and those who improve ; in other words, they who only retain facts, having a mind like the article headed with Farrago, or MuUum in Parvo, in the new.«pa- pers, are not always the persons who, by digesting, classifying, and inferring, have a stock of really avail- able information. Now I feel I should be doing little if I did not teach so to read that we may first remem- ber what we read ; secondly, digest it ; thirdly, have it ready and available. " Say you so," says a young friend, for whose guidance I am partly induced to write this, "then what I read must he no great deal ; it must be a very short history at all events." Pre- cisely what I was going to say. Read a very short History of England first — the Outline by the Society already mentioned. I know a child of ten years of age who learned this so thoroughly, that he could answer any question. I once defied an old college companion to puzzle him ; and after receiving an ac- curate answer to twenty-three questions out of tvverity- four, my friend wanted to know how it was possible for a child to learn so much. I showed the book — a well chosen outline, too bare and meagre to be alone very improving — too jejune a skeleton to satisfy the cravings of a really healthy and hungry mind, yet it contained all matters within the comprehension of a child. Fine painters tell their pupils, first draw a cor- rect outhne — let your anatomy be correct first ; it is easy to fill in, and to colour afterwards. With this little history you have the figure — the bones ; but we must galvanize this anatomy and add flesh, substance, vigour, and life ; we must make these bones live. To keep to my former plan, let this outline history repre- sent the long stem of a tree. How are we to fill it up! It looks hollow, to say nothing of branches at present. With this kind of drawing the pupil may begin to fill in just when he pleases, provided he takes care that the outline does not become erased, and that the whole figure of his tree is plainly before his eye from first to last. Every one according to his ability may work out and bring into bolder relief and more substantial form any part that he pleases, and may, without any material consequence, proceed either up or down. Full well I know the most idle have a dis- position to even the most toilsome work in order to complete and connect little blanks that disfigure their work. No one would finish head, limbs, and breast, and then leave the figure like Tityos, with vitals doomed never to heal. The straight-forward way to fill up your tree would be to take up another larger history : not Hume's, it is too big as yet ; but Keignt- 2 ley's' or Goldsmith's^ first. The time required for learning these three will not be as long as would be required for Keightley's, without these smaller works as an introduction. The parts which are substantially (he same in all will be taken at a glance, and serv<' pleasantly to refresh memory, rather than exhaust at- tention. We feel a secret pleasure in our studies when we meet with what we know ; it shows we are improving, however gradually, to that state in which we may read whole volumes rather to judge and pro- nounce, than merely to be taught without discretion. Even Keightley gives Httle more than an outline ; but outline is a comparative term : he gives such an ou'- line as deserves to be considered very substantial in comparison with the historical knowledge that most, even of those reputed well informed, really possess. We have all heard the remark, that one half the world does not know how the other half lives, and if it is not generally known how many things half the world lives and dies without enjoying, most truly may this be said of intellectual stores. How few would hke to confess the little that they know — at least, the very limited number of correct replies they coiild at any moment sit down and write, for another's judgment, to questions which were within the capacity even of a child. Supposing ourselves born with minds literally a blank sheet of paper, and that these tablets were required to be laid open for the inspection of our neighbours, should we not feel how little there was tu be seen on topics with which we were supposed to be so well acquainted, and how indistinctly and inaccu- rately even that little was inscribed ? Were the minds of many thus laid bare, all that at the moment remained for judgment would seem less the acqui.s;- tions of a Ufe than the desultory reading of an hour. Oh! if the pale patient, bled, blistered, and reduced, could so read his physician — if the client with his estate in chancery could so pry into the narrow data on which his lawyer founds such broad conclusions — il those who dream of the unlimited powers of ministe- rial sagacity could so prove "with what very iiiilf- wisdom the world is governed," many would agre^- that the goodness of Providence is in no way nior" remarkable than in this, that in the wise economy oi creation, all disturbing causes are so nicely calculated and balanced, that busy man has even less power to do mischief, than he thinks he has to do good. Let none despair because his knowledge 8eem.= little, if it is only accurate. The Germans, who so well understand practical education, say " nothing i.^ so prolific as a little known well." Knowledge in- creases in a geometrical ratio. The total of the acqui- sitions of the mind is the continued product, rather than the sum of all it contains. A little sound and well digested historical knowledge will be always useful ; but if the facts are mistaken, the deductions must be as false in matter as they arc logical in form ; and all arguments will be as absurd as the answer of a sum in arithmetic with an error i:i the first line. This inaccuracy accounts for the ob- stinacy of those called wrong-headed men. They art sure their reasoning is right ; but as their facts happen to be wrong, they have only the advantage of ' ' method in their madness," and blundering by rule. This is a topic on which I am the more disposed to dwell, because I believe many, really capable of knowledge, remain in ignorance from two causes. First, from an opinion that any available degree of in- formation is beyond their powers. Secondly, thai others know so much that all they can learn will b' nothing in comparison. The latter should be consoled with the above observations, and taught to beware ot shallow pretenders, and men who always talk on their own topics. " You are surprised," said Talleyrand, " that I talk so well. Tell me, would it be no ad- 'Keishtley's England. 1vol. Turner &Hayden, New York. 2 Goldsmith's England, with additions by Grim- shaw. 1 vol. Grigg &. Elliott, Philadelphia. •, 10 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. vnnlag:e to draw an enemy to your own ground, and only fifjht where your etvength is concentrated and your position commanding ? That is precisely my art." Men lose no credit by being often silent, if, when thoy speak, they speak to the purpose. Bacon refines upon this, and says. " lie who is silent where he is known (o be informed, will be believed to be in- formed where from ignorance he is silent." Again, Rochefavicauld observes, " The desire to seem learn- ed prevents many from becoming such." Numbers do we meet who make a profession of small talk — not more quaintly than properly so called — (or what can show more littleness, what can be more unworthy the serious application of the human mind, — an in- strument capable of mastering principles of extensive application, of discerning truth in matters where the harmonious movement of the vast and complicated machinery of social life maybe disordered by the pre- valence of error, — than to be limited to the petty do- mestic history of beings of a day, who owe a week's celebrity to the difficulty of filling newspapers — a knowledge that must begin almost " de novo" every session of parliament. If you study, e.xclusively de- voted to the secret improvement of your own mind, and for the pleasures a well-stored mind has ever at command, you will at the same time be taking the readiest means to " shine in society ;" but if you seek , the vain glory and opinion of others, you will sacrifice real improvement to the pursuit and gain, at best but ( the commendation, of fools. " Let every man," said 1 Lord Bolingbroke,' "read according to his profession (Or walk in life. Suppose that a man shuts himself up i :n his study twenty years, and then comes forth pro- ( fouiidly learned in Arabic, he gains a great name ; but 1 where is the good of it ?" There was an undergra- I duate at Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1829, who was 1 famed for knowing the names, drivers, coach inns, ( times of starting and arrival, of most of the principal , stages in Elngland. The absurdity of this is too ap- i parent to be imitated ; but I will not say too great. 1 There are many powerful minds at the present moment 1 devoted to pursuits quite as unprofitable to others, and t i>early as unimproving to themselves. , The other class whom diffidence deters from a lite- - rary course must be encouraged by the words^ of Sir J J. Reynolds, addressed to the pupils of the Royal (Academy; he says: — " The travellers into the East ^tell us, that when the ignorant inhabitants of those t countries are asked concerning the ruins of stately ^edifices yet remaining amongst them, the melancholy (; monuments of their former grandeur and long- lost J science, they always answer, ' they were built by 1 magicians.' The untaught mind finds a vast gulf (^between its own powers and those works of compli- ]-catcd art, which it is utterly unable to fathom ; and it i supposes that such a void can be passed only by ^supernatural powers." What Sir Joshua Reynolds j-says of painting is true of literature. Those who J know not the cause of any thing extraordinary and ■ybeyond them, may well be astonished at the effect; oand what the uncivilized ascribe to magic, others gBscribe to genius: two mighty pretenders, who for the (jinost part are safe from rivalry, only because, by the ^terror of their name, they discourage in their own ppeculiar sphere that resolute and sanguine spirit of ( enterprise which is essential to success. But all magic is science in disguise : let us proceed to take off the |r,inask — to show that the mightiest objects of our gWonder are mere men like ourselves ; have attained Qtheir superiority by steps which we can follow ; and p say that the news of the nation, apart from advertise mcnts and trivial subjects, would make a history ai^ large as Hume at least once a month. Allowing thei most fully for all that is lost, what a bare outline nius eight volumes contain of matter which still remain; illustrative, not of months, but of centuries ! " Then what an ocean you would have us embark on! Can we ever follow out so large a plan ?" Hav( patience. After remarking on the many volume; English history must fill, I was going to add, not iha there were so many to read, but so many from whicl to choose ; and, of course, the larger the choice thi more easy to suit every variety of taste. Without dictating to any as to the extent of thei studies, I would only show them how to make thi little tiine they employ go as far as possible; fo which purpose I advise a short outline of all the reigns and a minute knowledge of parts ; and for this rea son.— The sketches of the historian are like those o( the artist. You may have, first of all, an outlin' which gives rather the shadow of men than the mei themselves; then, again, you may have a mor marked outline, which still leaves every man alike thirdly, you may have the figures rudely filled up giving substantial form and individual character, bu still stiff and inanimate ; or, lastly, you may have faithful expression of impassioned agents, delineatin, an interesting passage of real life. Now which woul , you prefer, — one good historical picture — say a pane rama of the Battle of Waterloo, in which you coul understand all the movements, positions, and manoeu vres of one mighty action, which would serve as key to every other, or a long series of the usual bal tie-pieces, differing one from another in little else tha in the artist's partiality to fire and smoke. The leading facts and events of history may h copied and handed down from age to age. By ir dustrious research ingenious writers may ascertai ' Froissakt's Chronicles. One large vol. 8v« . with numerous illustrations, price $3. Wincheste New York. i^ 12 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. the details of wars and treaties at a distant period of time ; but contemporaries alone can draw characters, uid amuse us with vivid portraiture. This was John- ron's remark on Robertson's histories. He said the characters in history must be fiction, unless drawn by hose who knew the persons, as Sallust and Claren- lon. Sir Joshua Reynolds, too, remarked that the listinctness of Robertson's historical characters was ;aused at the expense of truth, by exaggerating their nore marked features. And Sir Robert Walpole, vhen, as Mr. Crokcr quotes, his son Horace' offered o amuse him with reading, said, "Any thing but listory ; that must be false." He meant to say the mputed motives, finer springs of actions, and minute letail of concurrent causes, were, for obvious reasons, inscrutable to historians generally, that he cared lot for their works. I say, therefore, in preference to dry outline, en-v ivened only by fictitious circumstances and plausible easonings on doubtful data, read the history, of a imited period, by men who had at least some oppor- unity of knowing what they wrote. This opinion of the mode of historical study is not nsupported by high authority. Bacon remarked, he hould like to have a history formed from the genuine /orka of all the writers of their own times, arranged, nd, if requisite, translated, but not abbreviated. ' For compilers," said he, " are the very ' moths of istory.' " Now let us reflect on what was passing 1 Bacon's mind when he made choice of this ex- ression. History, as faithfully related by a series •f writers, each detailing at length what he saw and card, seemed to Bacon like a fine piece of tapestry, 'herein were delineated figures that seemed to move nd breathe in positions which told the whole story — •'ho the victors — who the vanquished — the cause of rife — the fire of the chiefs, and the struggles of the ,ien. To such " cunning embroidery" we may liken ,»e varied and vivid page of Froissart : but when ;[ume comes in the character of moth the first, makes avoc of all colours an'd perspective, till no eye can istinguish between friend and foe — when Goldsmith ;>llows as moth the second, eats up each remnant of (istinctive character and vitality, and makes the living jiotionless as the slain — and lastly, Pinnock, as ■lOth the third, preys on what the other two had j)ared, and makes skeletons both of the dying and the i?ad — surely such shadowy sketches of things that 1 ere cannot so far give the character of the past as ■ I make it what history should be — the mirror of the (iture — the lessons of philosophy teaching by ex- «nple. With this picture present to my mind, I call joldsmith's history an outline — a skeleton: it con- dins topics under which you may very conveniently jTange ideas derived from other writers. But to be jMitented with such an outline alone is like taking the lOuble of providing yourself with a frame of pigeon- pies for historical papers, and not collecting anj' to tit in them. For to say such epitomes give distinct leas of themselves is absurd: only suppress the jimes, and then if we ask which is Oliver Cromwell, fid which is Wellington, we may well be answered, cie children at the peep-show, " Which you please, ly little dears." J Let it be granted, then, that since the voluminous (Stories in common use, such as Hume's, Smollett's, id others, which do not contain a simple account of \.e days in which their authors severally lived, pass If rer matters with so light a touch, and we may add cithso httle to guide the pencil, that readers who j>nfine themselves to their compositions alone, evi- cjntly pursue rather the shadow than the substance •»: real knowledge. And this is a postulate, to speak iiathematically, which Coleridge might as readily c,-ant with the writings of Hume as with those of (ibbon, of whom he said, in his " Table Talk," that ]) passes along from height to height, so as to convey f_ • Horace Walpole' s inimitable Letters, complete ]i 6 vols. 8vo. Lea &. Blanchard, Philadelphia. more the idea of romance than of history, and shows nothing of the wide flats and valleys of real life. Indeed it cannot be supposed that the strength of Hume, or any other single writer, would suflice ade- quately to investigate the memorable achievements of sixteen hundred years. How his fingers must tire ere he could unfold all the time-worn records of ages past ! How his eyes must swim over the black-let- tered Chronicles! Think of the many volumes which, as Hallam says, have long ceased to belong to rnen, and been the property of moths, would try his sight with their faint and curious pages, and test his patience with strange words as strangely spelt, be- fore he could give their meed of fame to Romans, Britons, Danes, Saxons, Normans. Well might Ed- mund Burke^ say he found Hume not very deeply versed in the early part of British history. The powers of the human mind, like the waters of the sea, though vast and deep, are limited to bounds they cannot pass ; and when they are highest in one part are necessarily lowest in another. So Lady Wortley Montagu' complained after making an attempt to be- come intelligible to all her household at Pera, fi-om whom, be it known to all housekeepers of these de- generate days, she was doomed to hear the same old excuse ten times told in ten different languages. She said she found the practice of one language had a ten- dency to diminish her aptitude for another ; and her English was falling into decay. Burke said that Hume acknowledged to him that from the early his- torians he derived no increased satisfaction to lead him on to deep research. Burke said he considered him- self a competent judge of Hume's work, having taken the pains to go through the early authorities. The reign he thought most carefully composed was that of Charles II. And here we may notice a vulgar error, that Smollett wrote a continuation of Hume. The truth is, that Smollett wrote a History of Eng- land from the time of the invasion of the Romans. It is not one of the least of the curiosities of literature that the fame of Hume should so completely have eclipsed that of Smollett as almost to erase his name from the list of the historians, and, as it were, to overlay all that part of his work which could possibly enter into competition with his own. Even a writer in the "Edinburgh Review," October, 1839, ob- served, — " Smollett has made a sorry figure by con- tinuing the History of England." '■■ Then the sum of all these stories and anecdotes apart is, that we must actually make out history for ourselves ?" — Yes. This is the legitimate conclusion from all my reasoning, that though what is called history is of some small value, inasmuch as it keeps the terms and forms of knowledge from passing into oblivion, still it is truly composed more of names than things, rather shadowy than substantial, and greatly inferior to what an inteUigent reader may easily be led to collect for himself You must choose between these mottoes: "Every man his own historian," or " No man an historian at all :" take which you please. I am not guilty of making the difficulty, only of stating it ; though real difliculty there is none, as you shall soon acknowledge : the only trouble consists in making choice of proper authors, or proper parts of them. But here let me meet the old objection — " We have been always advised to read books through from end to end." The only consistent meaning of this advice is, to read no books but are worth thorough reading. The principle is good ; but, if taken hteral- ly, you would read dictionaries through, or cyclopffi- dias, which is absurd; as indeed old Dr. Johnson impatiently remarked, in talking of a printed letter from the Rev. Herbert Croft to his pupil. Johnson: " This is surely a strange advice. You may as well resolve that whatever men you happen to get acquainted with, you are to keep to them for 2 Edmund Burke's works, complete, 9 vols. 8vo. Little & Brown, Boston. 3 Letters of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, in 2 vols. 8vo. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia, A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 13 life. A book may be good for nothing, or there may be only one thing in it worth knowing : ■ when this wholesome recreation fails, literary pastimes ''\ of a mefe negative character are not to be despised, ;^ because they answer the purpose of keeping worse '■_ thoughts out of the mind, and sometimes lead on the !j student, step by step, till he reaches the purest sphere J of intellectual existence. The first of the classes into % which I divide readers then, I consider, like Desde- ' mona, they would have all narrators of Othello's caste, and would read of — battles, sieges, fortunes ; — of most disastrous chances. Of moving accidents, by flood and field ; Of hair-breadth scapes i' the imminent deadly breach ; — of antres vast and deserts idle, Roucli quarries, rocks, and hills whose heads touch heaven ;— And of the Cannibals that each other eat. The Anthropophajri, and men whose heads Do grow beneath their shoulders. — A book with this page of Shakspeare for its table of contents, would probably be a general favourite with the subscribers of every circulating library in the kingdom ; for the majority of readers cannot be considered much above the excitement class. Their state of mind is by no means healthy I allow ; still the lowest order ot intellectual is preferable to mere physical resources. A book containing but little good has kept many a youth from company produc- tive of positive evil. The excitement and gross im- morality even of the worst of the old-fashioned novels is a less pernicious stimulant than lounging night after night with a cigar to the billiard room. Not lon<: since I heard a father say, " If I could only see my boy reading Tom Thumb, I should be happy ; that would be a beginning, but he avoids a book as if it had the plague." The habit of seeking amusement with books is so truly valuable in conducing to limit the sphere of youthful temptations, that a parent does wisely if he encourages it at almost any cost. Chil- dren should be taught that books are as natural a source of fun as tops and balls. A quondam acquaint- ance who tried for nearly seven years without success to take a degree at Oxford, met me a short time since, and said, " Books were never put in my way ; when I could scarcely read, my guardians sent me to Rug- by. My grandmother did once offer to make me a present of the ' Seven Wonders of the World' or some such book, but I told her I should like the mo- ney instead, so she gave me neither. Now I am trying for some situation under Government, but not many will do for me. Head work in an office is out of the question. Something like Commissioner of Woods and Forests, or any out-of-door work wouldii B 14 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. suit me exactly." This is very laughable, but it is very sad. Think of the tedious hours of such a per- son's in-door life in rainy weather, from breakfast to luncheon, — to dinner — to supper — to bed. How truly described by, "Would it were evening!" "Would it were morning!" and this state of mere vegetation without the energy of life is one in which many a man has existed, and from which many a man might have been snatched away to a sphere of usefulness had his parents been satisfied to give their child sto- ries suitable to his childish taste. In paying so much deference to the excitement class of readers, I only act on the principle that if we wish to keep a child quiet we must give him such toys as he is in a humour to play with. Children (in mind) are found of all ages ; and, as Aristotle says, " whether young in years, or young in character, matters not for my argument;" for doubtless in his day as in ours, children often attained to the so-called years of discretion without being able to run alone. I say then, those of youthful taste must be indulged in their own way, and gradually led on by timely en- couragement, and the influence of superior minds, to mingle works of valuable information with those of more thrilling interest. Thus from criminal trials' (and who has not read the Newgate Calendar ?) I have known youths acquire much information of the principles and practice of the laws of their country, from trials for murders led to trials for treason, and taught to connect these with the history of the times ; and thence, as the mind matured, they have learned to reflect on the state and progress of society. But after all, be the taste of youth what it may, it is better they should read in their own way, with certain ob- vious exceptions, than not at all. "What?" I may be sure some will say, "is that which ministers to love of excitement and a morbid appetite for subjects which are vain and profitless, and take up time never to be redeemed, isthis tobe recommended for)''outh?" No — not in the abstract, but as a choice, which so commonly presents itself of manifest evils. A few months since, in vindicating classical studies and works of sound reading, I happened to allude to novels, and remarked that they were often read for that/oe to piety — excitement. Now, as my meaning was not sufficiently plain, that a due balance and even tone of mind in just harmony with the spirit of Him whom it is the end and aim of this mortal life with gracious aid to imitate, is to be ever regarded in our choice of intellectual recreations and more serious studies — that therefore, as novels ministered to morbid love of excitement, they tended to destroy this true harmony of feeling, and that in proportion as they do so, they fall short of the highest order of studies — as this argument was not understood, a lady with a large family addressed me thus: "You object to novels and story books as irreligious, because exciting. I have four very high-spirited, though very excellent sons ; if I lock up Robinson Crusoe from my George, and the Waverley novels^ from the other three, how am I to prevent them from turning the whole house out of window the very first wet day, for they tuill read nothing else ?" A few days after, a sensible physician told me he had a patient who could keep nothing on his stomach but lobster salad. Now, said he, men with one idea would starve him first, and plead the rules of their profession afterwards. So, .t^ome who minister to the mind instead of giving the child child- ish things, try to force an appetite for serious reading prematurely, and most efiijctually nip in the bud the slow-growing but healthy plant, which, with careful nurture, would have borne good fruit in due season. But do you not know that Sir Walter Scott some- times treats religious things with too much levity ? I will not deny tliat Sir Walter would himself wish ' Celebkated Trials in all Ages and Coun- tries, in 1 vol. 8vo, 600 pages, 50 cts. Carey & Hart. 2 The Waverley Novels, with the author's latest notes and additions, complete in 5 vols. 8vo. 3250 pages, for two dollars and a half. Carey & Hart. certain things unsaid ; but till another author arisen to publish a number of volumes which will be really read (for books not read, however good, we cannot count), breathing a spirit equally wholesome and equally in unison with the brotherly love and charity of the Gospel, and at the same time so superior to the novels that were most popular before his day, as well as to those which have been most popular, that is, most read, since, — Sir Walter must be admitted not only to have been, but still to be, one of the greatest benefactors of modern times. Bishop Heber was a great admirer of Scott's works. We learn from his Journal that he read Quentin Durward on his voyage, and said no other man but Scott could have written it. Class the first then comprises readers of youthful taste. Their appetite is for the rare, the dainty, highly- seasoned viands. When instructive subjects are pro- posed they soon find "house affairs to draw them hence," and must be amused like Desdemona before they will " seriously incline and with greedy ear de- vour up my discourse." When one of this class sits down to a book of sterling worth, he looks at his watch, prepares his marker, smoothes down the page, knits his brow, turns his back to the window, and begins. The first page is read with great attention, and, perchance, the second, with nearly as much: he turns over the third, and, in a few minutes, finds his eyes nearly at the bottom ; how they got there he knows not, for his thoughts he feels had gone off at a tangent from the top. These truant thoughts are soon recalled, obey for a page and a half, and then are oft' again — how remarkable ! Who has not felt this mental phenomenon, and said, " How strange ! I was so resolved, I wanted to attend, but my mind does so wander." Only consider these two words — "/and my mind;'" most people think they and their minds are one and the same thing, but they seem as different as I and 7ny dog, for my mind and my dog are equally prone to wander in spite of me — equally run off after any thing that suddenly breaks upon my path, and evince an equal eagerness to chase any thing but what I prepare to pursue. But there is a way to make my dog obey me, change his wandering nature, down when I say " down," and pass without a glance every thing but the game I choose to hunt ; all this I can do by gradual discipline. Let every man try and resolve to make his mind as tractable as his dog, by the same watchfulness and judicious exercise. He must not be severe with it, nor task it beyond its present powers. The dog will never take the water if you begin by throwing him into it — use gentle en- couragement and avail yourself of each earliest indi- cation of maturing strength — so may you continually extend the sphere of activity, improve the nature of mind as well as matter, and, to revert to my present subject, promote the readers of class the first to class the second, and, in due course, to class the third, which I will respectively describe. The second class consists of those who study bio- graphy, or some branch of*natural philosophy, who desire to improve and endure present toil for future profit. Let us draw a comparison between this and the former class. Tales of excitement clo}' — the ap- petite becomes dull till the bloodiest of all bloday murders does not make us creep — every headless spectre at midnight resolves itself into a shirt and red garters — no giant seems more than a dwarf after the one who had a whole rookery flying out of his beard, and every shipwrecked crew are at once foreseen either to be divided among sharks, cannibals, or else made tnore comfortable than if nothing had happened bv some home-bound vessel. In short, every species of battle, murder, and heroic exploit is soon familiar, and therefore the topics of this my first class of readers are easily exhausted. On the other hand, works of history, of fact not fiction, are ever varied and ever new. Besides, they improve the understanding and continually enlarge the sphere of interest. If the first class of students visit the Polytechnicon, or Adelaide Gallery, they will saunter about for a few hours, return home, and say, with much composure, A COURSE Or' ENGLISH READING, 15 " Now they have seen it," as an unanswerable argu- ment against seeing it again. A visitor of this order of intellect accompanied me one day, and the two things which made most impression on his mind were a new bit for a runaway horse and a ohsiir for surgical operations. Nothing arrested his attention for a mo- ment but what was already familiar to him. A little patience and exertion of mind, with the courage to confess ignorance and ask questions, would, in many instances, have increased his knowledge of principles, and invested the mysterious wheels in glass cases with all the interest of the patent snaffle. A little e.xertion did I say ? that sounds very easy ; but to be strictly honest I must confess, that to put an ordinary man's senses (so called by courtesy) out of their usual way, to make them "turn their hand to something they were never brought up to, and does not even run in their family" — this is more easily said than done. A few days after I met a young friend in the Polytech- nicon, who said he had been there every day, and what he saw in the morning was a continual incite- ment to study natural philosophy in the evening : thus his curiosity is no sooner satisfied than hungry again, and literally " grows by what it feeds on." My second class of readers study on the same principle. Dissertations on taxation and other points of political economy, which occasionally occur in history, to some are dry and profitless ; but they take the first oppor- tunity of reading an article from a CyclopaEdia on this very difficulty, find it far easier to understand than its repulsive name led them to expect, and ever after, when they meet what once only convicted them of ignorance, they eagerly grapple M'ith it, assured of all the pleasures of conscious superiority and improve- ment. But the third class of readers are superior even to these : as the first \ike fiction and the second fact, so these like principle. To examine into the causes and consequences of things is the highest exercise of the human mind, and attended with the purest pleasure. Fiction delights us for the moment with imaginary scenes, history gives more lasting satisfaction by the realities of life ; but the study of principles or science is like extract- ing the essence or cuUing all that is profitable from both, and laying it up in a convenient form to be ever useful, ready, and available. Supposing a man found himself one of many hundred servants in a large fac- tory or house of business, he would naturally desire to know something of the rise, progress, and future prospects of the system in which his own prosperity was involved. Fiction would tell what things rnight 6e-^History would tell what things had been — but Science, in investigating the principles of the system, would, by comparing present with past, reveal what things would be. Just such a system is the compli- cated machinery of human society ; such servants are its members, and such is the knowledge which the study of principles can impart. Homer's seer was a man deep in pririciples : "things which were and had been," taught him "things to come." Again, the subjects of the three classes of readers may be the same, but each reads with a different purpose, gathers a different kind of knowledge, and exercises a different power of the mind. The but- terfly flits over the flower-bed and stores up nothing ; the spider poison, but the bee honey. So the lover of fiction reads a novel for the excitement and interest of the story ; the lover of history reads the same novel to learn the manners and customs of the day ; the lover of science and principles to quicken his ob- servation, and increase his knowledge of the human heart. And this would suggest the remark that the value of every book, whether morally or intellectually considered, depends on the object with which it is read. The same volume may be made to minister to a morbid love of excitement, to increase knowledge of the past, or to aid a noble contemplation of the present or the future. The child pulls off the lid of the kettle for sport, the housewife for use ; but young Watts for science, which ended with the improve- ment of the steam-engine. Tastes and faculties differ — all are capable of im- provement — and with good counsel nearly all persons may learn to prefer the next highest to the next low- est exercise, till the most exulted proves the most delightful, and the spheres of our dearest pleasures and of our highest interests coincide. I will now proceed to recommend books for each class respectively. Most sincerely do I wish it were in my power to ensure that none but the highest or- der of works should be read, or at least that those of a lower kind, when read at all, should be invested with a pure character by the high purposes which their readers aspired to promote. But to advise readers to study nothing till they feel a taste for works of the highest character, is like saying, "never enter the water till you can swim." To hope to confine our- selves to books pure and unexceptionable, not only in their general tendency, but in every word and sentiment, is like hoping to join in none but the purest and most perfect society. So rigid a rule in a world like this would lead to monkish seclusion and nar- rowed faculties, with a better name, though worse influence, than intercourse the most unguarded would exert. If we may not read Shaksjieare lest we learn improper language, we should not walk in the streets for the same reason ; but the body would suffer from want of exercise in the one case, so would the mind in the other. The first and most numerou-5 class of readers, whose chief object is rather present amusement than future profit, should, of course, when tv/o books are equal in interest, make choice of that which is more improving. Therefore one rule for a choice of books is to prefer those which almost f Lingard's History of England, 8 vols. 8vo. Pi'ice $10. _ Miss Halsted's Life and Times of Richard 111., 1 vol. 8vo. price SI. 50. Carey & Hart. Miss Strickland's Queens of England, 7 vols. 12mo. Lea & Blanchard. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 23 the next thing is to select one portion for a more searching and minute examination. The leading principles on which you should choose a portion of history to be made a strong point for deep study are, First, to be guided by your own taste and curiosity ; for you will sail into the wide ocean of truth more rapidly with than against the current of your nature. Secondly, to choose, according to your own neces- sities, whatever will be useful in business or give you confidence in society. As a general rule, rciul what others read. Conversation is often more improving than books ; therefore, read to profit by conversation. If you would be improved by a visit to Paris, you must first learn French ; if by a visit to London, or'by joining any particular society, whether of men of bu- siness, men of science, or men of literature, you must study, if not the language, at least the thoughts and topics of such society. You will otherwise feel as much out of your element as a sherifl''s chaplain when dining with tlie judge on his circuit. TkirdUj, read subjects which afford most matter for reflection. To be wise is both the surest and most profitable way to seem wise. Read those subjects which involve most principles. Principles are the most handy, convertible, portable, and prolific of all species of literary property ; therefore, Fourthly, read one good comprehensive account of a revolution, protracted war, or other ever-recurring phaenomena of human society. Then, ex uno disce omnes, that is, gain so intimate a knowledge of one that you may anticipate the chief characteristics of all. This was the secret of Edmund Burke's attain- ments. His letter to Lord Charlemont at the com- mencement of the French Revolution, is considered to evince almost the power of prophecy. Niebuhr had so deeply studied Roman history, that he ven- tured to assert, after a lapse of about 2000 years, an opinion of the early constitution of Rome in direct contradiction to classical authorities. By the recovery of some lost books of Cicero de Republica, his con- clusion was proved correct. One of my friends was assured by Niebuhr, that before he had read the sum- mary of a lost decade of Livy, he wrote down the substance of what it contained. Another illustration of how far a little good intellectual coin may be made to go, is afforded by Gibbon, chap, x.xxi., in which he conjectures the history of the unrecorded years between the withdrawing of the Romans firom Britain and the descent of the Saxons. These are the leading principles on which you should select "a strong point" in history; and on which I have selected, by way of example and illustra- tion, the following portions : — 1st, The early history till about the time of the Conquest. 2dly, The era of the Middle Ages,' including the feudal system, chivalry, and the crusades. 3dly, The beginning of modern history, marked by the art of printing, the use of gunpowder and the compass, the discovery of America, and the deve- lopment of the colonial system. 4lhly, The civil wars. 5thly, The Revolution of 16S8. 6thly, From the accession of George III. to the pre- sent time. I will now consider these eras separately, and point out a course of reading upon each : and, First, Ox Early E.volish History. This portion will afford amusement to one fond of antiquities — would cons'itute a good preparation for any university- student going to the bar, but is only to be recom- mended to those of mature understanding. Now, reader, what is your object ? If you only wish to thicken and strengthen the lower part of your historical tree by other outlines of early history to run parallel with those already laid down, read a J Hallam's Middle Ages, 1 vol. 8vo. Harper & Brothers, New. York. short sketch in Tyiler's "Universal History, "2 vol. iv. "Family Library:" also "the Romans in Bri- tain," and " The Anglo-Saxons," forming one vo- lume of the "Family Library:" to which the more voluminous reader may either add or prefer Turner's "History of the Anglo-Saxons, "^ or, which is the shortest of all, Hume's " Appendix on the Anglo- Saxon Government ;" besides, or instead of all these, read Mackintosh's "History of England," vol. i. " Lardner's Cyclopaedia." The very profound in- quirer may also refer to the authorities quoted in the foot-notes. Chalmcr's " Caledonia," treating of the Roman period, is recommended in Profes.sor Smyth's lectures,* which are well worthy the atten- tion of every reader of modern history. But manjr valuable works, published since 1809, the date of these lectures, remain to be noticed. On the Roman period read also Tacilus's Agricola; Murphy's trans- lation is in almost every library, and was recom- mended by Edmund Burke, as one of the best in our language. There are also translations of Caesar and Suetonius, which should be consulted. The index or summary will be a ready guide to the chapters relat- ing to Britain. Dr. Smyth remarks that Gibbon, c. xx.xi., supplies by ingenious conjecture the history of the years between 400 and 449. On the Druids, read the account in " CtEsar;" also a concise history in Southey's " Book of the Church." The history which treats of them most fully is Henry's "Britain," b. i. c. 4, where we have their history, manners, learning, and religion. For the progress of religion in those early times, read Southey,^ Mosheim,^ Mil- ner ; a few pages in each. All the reasons for be- lieving St. Paul came to Britain, and the first promul- gation of the Gospel, aregivenin " Peranzabuloe," an interesting account of an ancient church found buried in the sand on the coast of Cornwall. Tytler recom- mends Carte's " flistory," vol. i. b. iv. ^ 18, as con- taining an admirable account of Alfred the Great. The " Encyclopajdia Britannica," " Metropohtana," and the " Penny Cyclopaedia," (which I shall hence- forth quote as "the three Cyclopaedias, ") also con- tain comprehensive articles on Anglo-Saxons, Alfred, Bede, Druids. Those who have access to Camden's "Britannia," to which many of the authors already recommended are greatly indebted, may satisfy the most eager curiosity. Camden, in 1582, travelled through the eastern and northern counties of England to survey the country and arrange a correspondence forthesupply of further information. His " Remains" of a greater work on Britain was published 1605. Camden's reign of Elizabeth is recommended by Hume, as one of the best compositions of any English historian. Leland's " Itinerary" is also recommended to the curious. Camden made great use of it. In the reign of Henry VII. Leland was empowered by a commission under the Great Seal to search for ob- jects of antiquity in the archives and libraries of all cathedrals, abbeys, priories, &,c., and spent six years in collecting materials for the "Archaeology of Eng- land and Wales. One volume of Lardner's Cyclo- paedia" also contains Lives of the chief characters of our early history. ^ Tvtler's Universal History, 2 vols. 8vo. B. B. Mussey, Boston. White's Universal History. — A new and ad- mirable work, in 1 vol. price §1. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. ^ Sharon Turner's History of the Anglo- Saxons, 2 vols. 8vo. price 84.50. Carev & Hart, Philadelphia. '' Professor S.myth's Lectures on History, with notes by Sparks, 2 vols. 8vo. J. Owen, Cambridge. * Southey's Book of the Church. J. Murray, London. ^ fi Mosheim's Ecclesiastical Hlstory, with addi- tions, 3 vols. 8vo. Harper & Brothers, New York. ' Lardner's Cabinet Cvclop.'edia, in 133 vols. 12mo. Longman & Co. London. Any of the vo- lumes supplied by Carey & Hare at $1.75 cts. each. % 24 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. It will be observed that I limit my recommenda- tions as much as possible to books which may be easily procured. Many other works, quite as in- structive as the preceding, I omit, because any reader who attends to these directions may, by a little in- quiry, ascertain the value oi' every work within his reach. Almost all of the above works give their authorities, and contain incidental remarks on the sources from which more extensive information may be derived. To those who have a real love of learning, let me ob- serve, that Ingulphus, secretary to William I., wrote the "History of the Monastery of Croyland," with many particulars of the English kings from 664 to 1091. William of Malmesbury wrote most laudably, as he said, " not to show his learning, but to bring to hght things covered with the rubbish of antiquity," a history of Old England from 449 to 1126; also a Church History and Life of St. Aldhelm. All these works are accessible to every university student and readers in public libraries : as also are those of the venerable Bede, who early in the eighth century wrote an Ecclesiastical History by aid of correspond- ence, when there was no penny postage, with all the monasteries in the heptarchy ! I'here is an Old Eng- lish translation, besides that by Alfred in Saxon. All these works have been under the hand of the com- piler and the spoiler, that is, as Bacon would say, the moths have been at them ; but away with these dilu- tions and drink at the fountain. The second portion of English history worthy of deep study is what is commonly reckoned The Middle Ages. This comprehends the Feudal System, Chivalry' and the Crusades.^ This era may be also profitably selected by univer- sity students and men of liberal education. A know- ledge of the feudal system is of the first importance. Chivalry and the crusades must be examined more particularly in respect of their causes and effects in civilization. On the Feudal System read a chapter in Black- stone's Commentaries, vol. i. ; also Tytler, b. vi. c. 2 ; and Hume's second Appendix. Dr. Smyth strongly recommends the account in Stewart's View of So- ciety ; that in Millar's History is also considered good. Robertson's Introduction'' to his Charles V. is very valuable. Attend particularly to the proofs and illustrations at the end. Bacon's Henry VII. I can strongly recommend ; also part of Montesquieu.'' My readers must not take fright at seeing so many books on the same subject. Most of my references are only to a few pages out of several volumes, and these easily found by an inde.x or summary. Learn the facts and arguments of one treatise thoroughly during hours of study, and the rest will be easy enough for " hours of idleness." No light reading rivets attention so much as dissertations on those topics about which study has e.vcited a spirit of inquiry. On Chivalri/, as well as the feudal system and the crusades, Hallani's Middle Ages is of the first author- ity. The very popular author, Mr. .Tames, has writ- ten the History of Chivalry, as also the lives of Rich- ard I. and the Black Prince, ^ from which much use- ' Mill's Histouy of the Crusades, a new edition in 1 vol. price $1. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. 2 Mill's History of Chivaluy, 1 vol. 8vo. $1. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. ^ Robertson's Works — Scotland — India — Ameri- ca and Charles V., 3 vols. Svo. Harper & Brothers, _ New York. * Montesquieu's Works, 4 vols. Svo. London. Montesquieu's Spirit of Laws, 2 vols. Svo. I London. s James's History of Chivalry, 1 vol. 50 cts. Harper's Family Library. Ja:mes's Life of Richard I. Langleys, New York. James's Life of Edward the Bl.ick Prince, 2 •-vols. 12mo. $1.50. Carey & Hart. ful information may be derived. He has also written on Chivalry and the Crusades. These works, as well as Horace Smith's Tales of the Early Ages, combine amusement with instruction. On Chivalry read also Gibbon,'' ch. Iviii. Of Gibbon let me say once for all, that as a man he is guilty of having turned aside from the line of his history to shake that faith which, with all his skepticism as to its divine original, he would have been the last to deny to be the richest earthly blessing. But as a historian. Gibbon is re- garded wth admiration by all learned men. Even Niebuhr praised the deepness of his research, and the clearness of his views. Blackstone quoted him with reverence. The accuracy of his facts, and the sagacity of his conclusions, are indisputable. His fault is that he hints^where he should speak out. He discussed the causes of the spread of Christianity, though, as an historian, he might have confined him- self to the efi'ects. Hume, on the period of the Re- formation, was equally unlikely to prove an impartial writer. Of the Crusades, a good short account is given by Tytler's Universal History, book vi. c. 9. Read also Robertson's Introduction to his Charles V., and search the notes and illustrations for more infor- mation. They give a ready clue to the best sources of all matters relating to the middle ages. Lastly, read the articles in the three CyclopaBdias, or either of them, upon the Feudal System, Chivalry, and the Crusades. The third portion of English History to be made a strong point is, — The Period of the Reformation, and the com- mencement of modern history. On the Eefonnation in England read Southey's " Book of the Church," which is very interesting. Those who have little time may read the small volume on the Reformation in the Family Library. Consult one or more of the three Cyclopcedias. Dr. Smyth's " Lecture" is very useful. Lives of the Reformers will make a profitable variety. Select also the ap- propriate parts of Short's " Church History," Milner, and Mosheim. The labour will be less than you would suppose : an accurate knowledge of the nar- rative of one virtually exhausts tho difficulties of all. While these authors give a true Protestant account, Lingard's "History of England" will show what can be said by a Roman Catholic, and in Hume's " His- tory" you see the subject treated by a man who cared for neither party. Read also Sir J. Mackintosh's "Life of Sir Thomas More." Burnet's "History of the Reformation in England"' is allowed to be a very full and authentic account. It was written in 1679, at the times described by Sir Walter Scott in " Peveril of the Peak." For the Reformation in Scotland, compare Robertson's and Scott's Scotland.* Dr. Smyth strongly recommends the work by Dr. M'Crie. Do not omit the life of Knox. By inter- spersing biography with history you quicken your observation, and become familiar with the times. These works, with two or three of the chapters of Fox's " Martyrs, "3 will make you as perfect as the best member of the Church of England can desire, on a subject in which our Gospel privileges are in- volved. This is a portion of English History within the comprehension of almost all readers. Those who feel ashamed not to know the politics of the day should blush to live in ignorance of all that was said and done in those spirit-stirring times, which vindi- cated the liberty of the human soul. 6 Gibbon's Rome, with notes by Milman, 4 vols. Svo. Harper & Brothers, New York. ''Burnet's History of the Reformation in Eng- land. 4 vols. Svo, with illustrations. Appleton &, Co., New York. 8 Sir Walter Scott's Scotland. In Scott's Prose Works, 5 vols. Svo. Carey & Hart, Phila- delphia. s Fox's Book of Martyrs, in 1 vol. Jas. M. Campbell, Philadelphia. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 25 On the Times of Henry VIII., and indeed on every other period, consult the Pictorial History of Eng- land,' especially for a view of the state of society. Think of the times when more than 70,000 criminals were executed in a single reign. Well may we read, "the common sort of people were not much counted of, but sturdy knaves were hung up apace." On the Discovery of America, the most easy and entertaining reading will be Robertson's "America." There are few books in which information is con- veyed in a more interesting way. The ' ' Life of Columbus,"^ in the "Family Library," is worth reading. Heeren's •' Colonial System and Modern History," which begins from the era we are considering, is chiefly valuable to the more profound readers of the whole course of modern history. The fourth portion of English History for extensive reading is The Period of the Civil Wars. You will do well to begin with Hume's Charles I. and the Commonwealth. Dr. Smyth's " Lectures on the Civil Wars" will draw attention to the lead- ing points, and direct your reading. Then the prac- tised student will take Clarendon's " Rebellion." Sir Walter Scott recommended it to his son as a book replete with wisdom, in a style sometimes prolix, but usually nervous and energetic. For many readers it is too long ; but since its author combined a power of striking portraiture, and an intimate knowledge of the human heart, with deep political wisdom, and since he stood in a position which, nearly from first to last, gave a general view both of grand movements and secret springs of action, the work of this stanch friend of church and state is one which no man of literary tasle must long delay to read. Harris's " Lives of Charles I. and Cromwell" will give the views of a Dissenter and a Republican. The notes to these lives show great research, and are longer than the text. Godwin, in his " Times of Charles I. and the Republic,"'' follows on the same side. Neal's "History of the Puritans"'* is reckoned good, and as fair as could be expected from one of their own party. A book of lighter reading, for variety, is the volume in the " Family Library," on the " Trials of the Regicides." You may also find by the index, an able arlicle on these times in the "Edinburgh Re- view." Burnet's " Own Times''^ is certainly quite what Dr. Johnson termed it — most entertaining chit- chat of a man who went everywhere, and talked to every one. The first part, containing exclusively the result of his personal observation, is the most enter- taining. "Hudibras," with Grey's "Notes," Dry- den's " Absalom and Achitophel,"^ and Milton's prose works, may be read in connection ; as also Sir W. Scott's " Woodstock." Miss Aikin's " Charles I."'' is very ably written. Short's " History," as well as Southey's "Book," will show the state of the Church. Read the "Memorials of White- lock," a lawyer whose opinion was taken about ship- money, who served in the parliamentary army, and was appointed one ofthe council of state. Also "Me- moirs of Hollis," who was a playfellow of Charles I. in his childhood ; head of the Presbyterian party ; ' Pictorial History of England, G vols. 8vo. Knight &. Co., London. For sale by Carey &. Hart. 2 Life of Columbus, by Weishington Irving, 2 vols. 8vo. Lea & Blanchard. Lives of the Co.mpaxions of Columbus, 1 vol. 8vo. Lea & Blanchard. ^ Godwin's History of the Commonwealth, 4 vols. Svo. London. ^ Neal's History of the Puritans, 2 vols. Svo. Harper & Brothers. 5 Burnet's Own Times, new edit, in 2 vols. Svo. with illustrations. London. 6 Dryden's Works, 2 vols. Svo. Harper & Bro- thers. " Mi.^s Aikin's Life of Charles I., 2 vols. Svo. Lea & Blanchard. 4 lieutenant of the parliamentary forces, and raised to the peerage by Charlte II. The " Memoirs of Lud- low," another leader of the Republicans, are full of interest ; as also are those of Hutchinson. The " Life of Monk" most read is that by Dr. Gumble, his chaplain, who once served on the Republican, but" afterwards wrote on the royal side. Dr. Smyth re-' commends Guizot's "Times of Charles I." These works are quite enough to mention. All memoirs, or letters of contemporaries, and all work.i carefully founded upon them, deserve the notice of readers who resolve to exhaust the whole subject. Lest my advice should seem less luminous than volu- minous, let me assure my reader, that when once he knows the mere outline of events accurately, all that is valuable in letters and memoirs may be gleaned with both ease and interest. The fifth Portion is the Revolution of 168S. Dr. Smyth's twentieth "Lecture," vol. ii., will serve as a guide, mark an outline, and quicken ob- servation. Then when Keightley's " History" has given an accurate knowledge ofthe course of events, Ward's " Essay" will tell you all that can be urged in support of every theory: the opinions of Black- stone, Mackintosh, Hallam, and Russell are concisely stated and considered. Burke's opinion will be found in his " Letters on the French Revolution." If Dr. Price's " Sermon on Love of Country" falls in your way, remember it is often quoted, and very clever. Burnet's " Own Times" is in favour of William, to whom he was chaplain. The "Diary of the Years 1687, 1688, 1689, and 1690," by Clarendon, son of the Chancellor, is in favour of James II. As he was averse to popery, he lost the privy seal, but he would not take the oaths to William III. Sir D. Dalrymple, much respected by Dr. Johnson and his circle, pub- lished " Annals of Scotland to the Accession of the Stuarts," recommended by Dr. Smyth, as also are the "Memoirs of Sir J. Reresby." Hallam's " Con- stitutional History"^ should be consulted ; also the " Stuart Papers," and many sets of memoirs and letters of all persons who lived in these times. The " Memoirs of Evelyn, "^ who held office in the reign of James II., are very curious. Belsham, Tindal, Ralph, who is much recommended for detail, and Somerville, have written the general history of the Revolution. For more directions read Smyth's twen- ty-second " Lecture" on William III. This portion of history should be studied by every man who would know the constitution of his country, or be in any way able to defend his own principles. The Revolution of 1688 is quoted nearly as often by one party as by another. Each party selects partial facts to warrant conclusions in support of its own views. The sixth select Portion of English History extends from the accession of George HI., in 1760, to the present time. Cats do not see till nine days old. Boys and girls attain nearly double that number of years before they quite open their (minds') eyes. At that critical period' they will only give reasonable proof of being quite awake, if they ask the time of day and what the peo- ple who were awake before them are doing and say- ing about the house ; in other words, if they ask, " Where are we ? what is going on? Let us knew all about the present, and enough ofthe past, to make the present intelligible." For the information of this class of inquirers I would recommend my si.\th se- lection of English historj'. Begin by reading this part of history in Keightley ; then take IVIiller's " George III.," which I have be- fore described. Select according to your own curio- sity. The account of each opening of parliament, and the exact state of parties, will amuse the deter- mined talker of politics and weary others. The con- tents of each paragraph is given in Roman characters. 8 Hallam's Constitutional History, 3 vols. 8vo., Paris ed., price S3.75. Carey & Hart. 9 Memoirs of Evelyn, 5 vols. 8vo. London, C 26 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. so that you may readily "read^nd skip," a practice which I shall discuss presently, since Miller contains little else ihan a continued epitome of the newspapers, it may be read with the same indulgence. The " Lives of George IV."' and "William IV." have been written on the same principle. Bind the three volumes together, with allexible back, mark the date of the events of each page on the top, and you will thus have a most ready and valuable book of reference, with abstracts of public speeches and documents, be- sides trials and matters of deep curiosity. The other continuous histories of George III. are, Belshani's, to the year 1793, and Adolphus's. Mr. Ilughes' " Con- tinuation' ' is greatly to be recommended. The ' ' Life of George IV.," in three volumes, may be read as a novel. The "Annual Register" is a very valuable series of records. It has been written by very able men: Edmund Burke wrote the historical parts for tiiirty years, beginning in 1758 ; and for years after it was written, under his direction, by Ireland. The " Gentleman's Magazine" is one of the same kind of authority. It afforded Dr. Johnson his chief employ- ment and support in 1738 and many following years. The "Annual Biography," as well as the " Edin- burgh Review," "Quarterly Magazine," and "Black- wood," will most pleasantly and profitably supply and strengthen many a link in your chain of reading. It were scarcely too much to say, that if we make good use of the cyclopaedias and periodicals above mentioned, we shall not require many other modern publications. From Lord Brougham's "Statesmen"^ we may gain a great accession to our knowledge of later times, of which we will make three subdivisions. The first extends from the accession of George III. to the French Revolution. In this period fill up your outline with the " Annual Register" and " Gentleman's Magazine," and then read the " Life of Burke ;"3 that by Prior may serve, but it is not very good. Read Dr. Johnson's ' ' Taxation no Tyranny;" also his "Parliamentary Speeches;" positively his, for he did not report but composed them, as you may see in a few most amusing pages in Hawkins' "Life," pp. 122 — 129, quoted in Croker's Boswell, i. 169—172. Read the "Life of Washington"'' — one of the shortest is that in the " Family Library ;" also the lives of Chatham, ^ Pitt, Fo.\, and Franklin. ^ I need not always specify which biography is considered best. Biographical dictiona- ries and cyclopagdias often contain accounts of all, though concisi3. Do not be dismayed because you see works in four or five octavos each on your friends' table. Choose books which you feel that you can remember, not those which others read. Junius'? " Letters" are so often quoted, that you should know something of them. The authorship is discussed in Brougham's "Characters," vol. i.. as well as in " Sketches of Credulity and Imposture." Read the story of the capture of Andre by the Americans, and his trial and execution. SccondJj/. On the French Jxevolutinji and the revo- hUio7iarii v>ar : when you accurately know the outline from the general histories, read the two first volumes of " Scolt's Napoleon,"' which shows the long train of causes ; the " Life of Napoleon"' by Scott, or that ' Ceoly's Life of GEor.GE IV. Harpers' Fa- mily Library. 2 BrvOUGUAM's Statesmen. 2 vols. 12mo. Lea & Elanchard. 3 Life of Burke. By Prior. 1 vol. Carey &. Hart. '' Life and Correspondence of Washington. By J. Sparks. 12 vols. 8vo. C. Tappan, Boston. 5 Lord Chatha.m's Correspondence. 4 vols. 8vo. London. s Life and Correspondence of Franklin. By Jared Sparks. 10 vols. C. Tappan, Boston. ' Scott's Life of Napoleon. 1 vol. 8vo. Price $1. Carey & Hart. in the " Family Library, "^ in two volumes, very con- cise and amusing ; parts of the Lives of Burke, She- ridan, and Wilberforce ; and the life of Erskine, in the "Lives of Eminent Lawyers," in Lardner's " Cyclopaedia" The actions by sea are related in Souihey's " Life of Nelson," and some in the lives of Earls St. Vincent, Howe, and Collingwood f and the actions by land in Southey's and Napier's " Pen- insular War,"'" the "Life of Sir T. Pictoii," " De- spatches of Wellington,"" and Segur's " Napoleon in Russia."'- You may add, of course, memoirs of any contemporary public characters.'^ The third subdivision of this part of history extends from the end of the vmr to the present time. The "Annual Biography," " Annual Register," and periodicals, are almost the only source of infor- mation. The " Penny Cyclopaedia," and articles in Chambers' "Library," give very late news: other information must be sought in the latest memoirs of distinguished characters. The practice of " reading and skipping" is so liable to abuse, that I must qualify it with a few observa- tions. Read with a given object in view, and skip not all that is difficult, but all that is irrevelant. A few standard authors must be read from end to end ; but the greater part may be read like a newspaper which we search for information on certain points, passing by every article unsuited to our peculiar taste and curi- osity. Bacon says, "Some books are to be tasted, some few chewed and digested." In any literary pursuit a book serves us like a guide, whom we leave when he has shown us what we want, not at all ashamed at not following him to his journey's end. Suppose that you wished to read ten different accounts of the Reformation ; after reading one attentively, you would see at a glance that a second contained whole pages of facts vi'hich you already knew, and would therefore skip unless you wished to refresh your me- mory. In taking up a third account you would find many, not only of the facts, but of the arguments, the same ; and by the time you had read a fourth or fifth author, you would look rather to the table of contents than to the pages, and turn only to the parts in which you expected more particulars. As a second example, the lives of Nelson, Howe, Earl St. Vincent, and others, I remarked, would give information about the British navy. Reading with this view, you would skip whole chapters about the wars in which these admirals were engaged, if you had read them else- where, or intended to read history at some other time. In corroboration of this advice, let me add the follow- ing quotations from Dr. Smyth's "Introductory Lec- ture :" — " This (method of reading parts of books), it will ^ Lockhart's Ijfe of Napoleon. 2 vols. $1. Ilnrpers' Family Library. 9 Life of Collingwood. 1 vol. 8vo. Carvills, New York. Frost's Naval History of the United States. 1 vol. 12mo. Appleion &- Co. '" N/VPier's History of the Peninsular War. 5 vols. 8vo. With fifty-five plates of plans of battles. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. " DESrATCHES OF THE DuKE OF WELLINGTON. By T.ieiitcnaiu-colonel Garwood. 12vols. 8vo. London, J. .Murray. '■^ Si^orn's Napoleon. 2 vols. 18mo. Harpers' Family L'brary. '3 Life of IjORd Eldon, bv Horace Twiss, Esq., 2 vols. 8vo. Price $3.50. Carey & Hart. Walpole's Letters, 6 vols. Lea &. Blanchard. Wraxall's Posthumous Memoirs, 1 vol. Lea & Blanchard. Life of Napoleon. By Thiers. 1 vol. 8vo. $1.25. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. Thiers' History of the French Revolution. Complete in two large volumes of upwards of 1800 pages. Price $1.25. Carey & Hart. The cheapest and best ever published on the subject. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 27 be said, is surely a superficial way of reading history.'" Nothing but the impossibility of adopting any other course would ever have induced nie to propose to students to read books in parts ; but huinan life does not admit of any other expedient. We must either read books of iiistory in this manner, or not read them at all. " The more youthful the mind, the more hazardous the privilege thus allowed of rending pages at a glance, and chapters by the table of contents. But the mind, after some failures and some experience, will materially improve in this great and necessary art — the art of reading much while reading little." Though I defend reading and skipping by so high an auihority, let me add, that if any young persons indulge in the practice to evade difficulty, and humour idleness and caprice, they will be as fooli.-h as chil- dren who pick the plums out of their cake : they will cloy their appetite, and ever after complain that what is a treat to others is tasteless and insipid to them. The above remarks on English history, being laid before one of the young friends for whom they were originally intended, drew forth two observations. First, do not be afraid of making it too plain to your readers, that all your many lists of books form one long bill of fare to suit all ages, appetites, tastes, and constitutions; make it plain that soine dainties are for an acquired taste, some for the strong, others for the weak ; and that any one person might pass the greater part of his life before he would undergo all the changes of mind and body requisite to enjoy every variety of dainty you have set before him. Secondly, write one short, easy, and amusing course, to leach a good out- line of English history to readers who, like myself, have little leisure and less industry, but are yet ashamed to be ignorant of what others know. Then read the first sixty pages of the duodecimo "History" by the Society, which will tell as much as most persons know, to the end of Henry VH.'s reign. Read Goldsmith's " History of England from Henry VHI. to George H.," and the rest in Keight- ley's " History," and the three half-penny sheet of Chambers' Journal, which gives the history from the accession of George HI. to the present time. If you read this outline carefully, you will find that there is not more than you may accurately remember ; and if your only ambition is to know as much as the average of your neighbours, be sure that a clear and unbroken outline, with every event assigned to its proper time, place, and persons, will give you a greater command than if you possessed the confused and ill-assorted stores which form the "floating capital" of most readers. In condescending to provide for wants so hmited, I am led by the hope that you will soon feel disposed to make such outline clearer and broader by knowledge drawn from some other sources. To keep the outline of English history ever before the mind, I would recommend a very clever and well-e.xecuied chart, called "Ford's Tree of English History." With this you may begin at the root^and while you read the names of the sovereigns, and o;ie or two con- temporary events inscribed on the trunk of the tree, you may try to remember all the chief points, and when at a loss refer to your books. The student would do well to keep this or a similar outline, which, with a little ingenuity, he may make for himself on each portion of history, and cast his eye over it every time he begins to read. This is only like telling a stranger in London to look at the map every morning before he sets out. In the Second Division of Modern History I find it most convenient to comprehend a portion of history, of which the principal points are the seven following : — L The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. 2. The Revival of Learning. 3. The ReHgious Wars in the Low Countries. 4. The Thirty Years' War. 5. The French Revolution. 6. The History of America and the West. 7. The History of British India, and our other Colo- nies. The student's object will, of course, be to learn an outline of the whole, and to gain a thorough know- ledge of one division. I will assist him, as before, with remarks on the value of each division separately, and point out the sources of information. I would not be understood to say, that these seven divisions arc alone worthy of attention, still less that I attempt to name all the authors which throw light upon them, but only that, with this assistance, any reader can select other portions of history, and authors for himself And this observation apphes to every sub- ject on which I treat. First , On the Decline and Fall of the Eoman Empire, llie great authority is Gibbon, whom I have before characterized. Milman's edition is the best for sound readers; for those of little leisure, there is a compen- dium of one thick duodecimo. I have also seen ad- vertised a Bovvdler edition, with the dangerous pas- sages left out. The History of the Decline and Fall is also given in the second volume of Lardner's " Cy- clopeedia." The article in the " Cyclopaedia Britan- nica" is very comprehensive ; but the best ol the short accounts is in Tytler's " Universal History." For an account of Mahomet,' read his " Life" in the pamphlets of the Society ibr the Difi'usion of Useful Knowledge ; and read a little of Sale's Koran, ^ with the introduction. White's Bampton Lectures are quoted wiih respect by most writers on the precepts of Mahomet. Another valued authority is Ockley's History of the Saracens. Tytler(bookvi.ch. 1.) writes briefly but comprehensivelyof Arabia and Mohamme- danism. For the establishment of Christianity in the Roman Empire, read Tytler (book v. ch. 4) ; read also ch. 5, 6, 7, on the last period of Roman History, and to learn the genius and character of the Gothic nations. The Franks, the feudal system, Charlemagne and his successors, the Normans, and the rise of the secular power of the Popes, are all points of history deserving attention, and most easily to be learned from Tytler (book vi. ch. 2, 3, and 4.). The Germans, their genius, laws, and customs, may profitably be read in the* translation of Tacitus's " Germany." Dr. Smyth, in his second Lecture, strongly recommends Butler on the German Consti- tution. 7'his lecture treats on the laws of the barba- rians, and will serve as a useful guide to University students and men whose minds are disciplined and used to deep study. On all of these points. Gibbon may be consulted by means of the index or summary. " Then you do not take it for granted we shall read the whole ?" will be the exclamation of some Univer- sity student in the ardour of his first term. Enter, my good friend, the first bookseller's shop, and ask him how often, in taking in exchange Gibbon and other voluminous authors, he has found the leaves cut or soiled throughout. Believe me, when you have pass- ed from college rooms to " lodgings out," and thence after the days when, from being one of many candi- dates, (so called from white cravats and white faces,) you gradually find the i?iathu/t removed, the last but- ton of your waistcoat less tight, and when you have ceased to fancy yourself Tityos, with something ken- nelling in your diaphragm and preying on your vitals — when, in short, the sight of your ^^ testamur" has made you your.^elf again, sent you into the country, and given you time to see that college and college ways and notions are to the bachelor of arts what school seemed to the undergraduate, — then, from that time, believe me, the leisure hours of life will be found "di- visible with a remainder" by very few sets of twelve octavos. So begin in time ; do not lay down a plan of reading too extensive to execute perfectly. Did you ever see a pudding mixed? Well, the way is this,-j- take first a little flour, and then a little water ; stir it well, till quite smooth, then add a little more, first of one, and then of the other, stirring and mixing, till quite free from lumps; but should you, in your haste, throw in a second handful of flour before the first is ' Life of Mahomet. By Bush. 1 vol. Harper's Family Library. 2 Sale's Koran. 1 vol. 8vo. London edition. 28 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. well mixed, all the stirring of all the cooks that ever delighted in perquisites, will not prevent the pudding from being lumpy and indigestible. So the food ot the mind, like the food of the body, must have due time for each accession to blend, amalgamate, and digest. The second division is Ihe Era of the Ecvival of Learning. Supposing that millions of guineas long buried in some miser's garden were suddenly dug up by country clowns, who little knew the value, some would be trampled under foot and lost, but if one hun- dredth part were restored to circulation and use, the result would be a sudden infusion of energy and emu- lation in all the buyers and sellers of the village round. Such was the increase of spirit and activity which fol- lowed the sacking of Constantinople by the Turks, when though 120,000 MSS. are said to have perished, yet many were carried away by scholars to other na- tions, who knew more of their value than the dege- nerate Greeks. This event happened in the middle of the 15th century ; but Dante and Wickliffe, more than a century before, and then Petrarch and Boc- caccio, who had exerted themselves to bring to light the great authors of antiquity, the former discovering the Epistles of Cicero, the latter bringing Homer from Greece to Tuscany, gave a promise of the general re- viving of learning. A knowledge of this momentous era may be derived from the beginning of Hallam's " History of Literature,"' and part of his " History of the Middle Ages;" also from two chapters of Gib- bon (the 53d and 66th) ; from part of Roscoe's " Leo X."2 and " Lorenzo de Medici ;"3 also from the intro- duction of Robertson's " Charles V." Mosheim's " State of Learning in the 13lh and 14th Centuries," is much recommended. Read also, especially, the " Life of Petrarch ;"^ Vaughan's " Life of Wickliffe ;" Lives of Dante and Boccaccio, in Lardner's " Cyclo- paedia." Read Shepherd's "Life of Poggio," who early in the 15th century searched the monasteries for ancient MSS., and found Quintilian, some of the speeches of Cicero, besides Silius Italicus, and many of the later writers. To these add some account of the art of printing; and, for other sources of informa- tion, observe the authorities quoted by Hallam and others. Doubtless all these sources have been searched, and their stores reduced to a portable and readily accessi- ble form by the Cyclopaedias and Biographical Dic- tionaries ; for, as literature accumulates, it would be- come unwieldy, were it not that a constant demand for the gold without the dross operates with general literature as with laws and statutes; that is to say, it stimulates a supply of treatises and abridginents, which, like legal digests, contain enough for general use, and point out the sources of deeper knowledge. The third division of Modern History, the Era of the Refonniition, will cause me to refer to some of tfic authorities connected with the Reformation in Eng- land. r\Iilner and Mosheim treat this period in the general course of Church History. But the one book allowed to supersede all others is the late translation of D'Aubisne's work.^ It is written with much warmth and unction ; its great merit is, that the chief personages are allowed to speak for themselves, and speak to their heart's content ; I can fancy D' Aubigne in every controversy standing by Luther, and cry- ing, "hear, hear!" A careful perusal of D'Aubigne would be a good antidote against papacy : as to the talent of the author, I would say of him, as of Boswell, that there have been hundreds of writers 1 Hali.am's History of the Liter.4ture of Europe, during the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries. 2 vols. 8vo. Harper & Brothers. New York. 2 Roscoe's Leo X. 4 vols. Svo. Philadelphia. 3 Roscoe's Lorenzo de Medici. A new edition. 2 vols. Svo. $3.75. Carey &, Hart. * C ajipeell's Life of Petrarch. 1 vol. Svo. Carey & Hart. 5 D'Aubigne's History of the Reformation, 1 vol. Svo. James M. Campbell, Philadelphia. of far greater talent, who would not have treated his subject so well. This book, when complete, will contain about liiOO closely printed pages octavo. In- telligent readers, who have not time to read the whole, will find it easy to omit parts without losing the thread of the narrative. Robertson's " Charles V.," Coxe's "House of Austria," and two chapters of Roscoe's "Leo X.," all bear on the same subject. The history of printing and the revival of learning are of course closely con- nected with it. Indeed, with all the praise due to Luther and his friends, we must not presume that the most prominent are always the most efficient instru- ments in the hands of Providence. The men who, like Petrarch and others, contribute to the expansion of the human mind, and thus lay the train and pro- vide the fuel, act a part of greater use, though less self-devotion, than those who, whatever be their piety and courage, merely add the spark. The considera- tion, though humbling to man, is no less true, that the barbarism of the Turks in disengaging and setting tree the pent-up spirits of Constantinople, might not have done less service to the cause of Christ, than the never-failing faith and courage of those whom every true Christian to the end of time must admire. The truth is, God rolls along the still untiring stream of time ; and whether its surface is ruffled, as it were, by a ripple or whirlpool — whether it bears on its wide bosom the curling leaf or rifted oak — whether the licentious poets of Italy or the faithful scholars of Germany are struggling in its dark and mighty wa- ters, still it onward moves, for purposes transcending mortal ken. Two articles in the Edinburgh Review of 1842, one on " Ignatius Loyola and the Jesuits," the other on the " Port-Royalists,"^ are well worth reading. " Phi- lip II." by Coxe, and Grattan's " Netherlands,"'' will give the most interesting account of the religious wars in the Losv Countries, than which there is no finer subject for contemplation in any part of Modern History. Dr. Smyth's Lectures on the Reformation will be found very useful. The Reformation is considered by Heeren the chief event which marks the commencement of Modern History, properly so called ; the other events which distinguish it froin the History of the Middle Ages are the discovery of America, and the consequent development of the colonial system, the influence of the art of printing, and the improvement in the art of war by gunpowder. The era of the Reformation, therefore, will be a good point from which to begin a course of reading : this is the era at which Heeren commences his Jlodern History, a work I would strongly recommend to the studious — I mean, for in- stance, to an under-graduate, who wished to have a good plan of modern reading to accompany the clas- sical and mathematical studies of sixteen terms in the seclusion of college rooms. The Thirty Years' War is well deserving the at- tention of all who have studied the Reformation. The detail of this portion of history is intricate ; its prin- ciples and secret springs of action give much scope for that reflection which distinguishes the mere read- ing from the study of history. " The whole interval of about one hundred years, from the days of Luther to the peace of Westphalia, must be considered one continued struggle, open or concealed, between the Reformers and the Roman Catholics." This is the language of Dr. Smyth, whose 13th Lecture will afford considerable assistance. The most important part of this interval is the Thirty Years' War ; the other parts are filled chiefly with its causes and consequences. The best book for a commencement is the Life of Gustaphus Adol- 6 Ignatius Loyola and the Port-Royalists, in the Edinburgh Review. Included in Stephen's Miscel- lanies, in Carey and Hart's " Modern Essayists." ' Grattan's Netherlands, 1 vol. Harper & Brothers. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 29 phus, in the Family Library. After this, read Coxe's "House of Austria," and, lastly, Schiller's " Thirty Years' War." The next division is the period of the French Revo- lution. Mr. Alison's work' is now almost universally allowed to supply what has long been wanted, — a general history of the state of Europe during these momentous times. But Mr. Alison's work is very voluminous, and, Uke all Ions histories, it should be regarded as a general view and running commentary ; the judicious reader will yet desire to examine the evidence of eye-witnesses, and to weigh and compare a variety of opinions. The true use of books is to give facts and arguments ; after heaving evidence and counsel on both sides, every man who reads to any purpose will be his own judge, and decide for himself. The man whose mind is stored only with the conclu- sions and judgments of others is like a man who col- lects a set of rules and measures which he has not the art to apply, and at best only can attain to " truth in the wrong place." Therefore read parts of Miller's "George III." from 1789, for an epitome; then either the whole of Scott's "Life of Napoleon," or the first and second volumes, for the causes of the revolution. This was written " in one year of pain, grief, sorrow, and ruin." It was sold for 18,000Z., and, says Mr. Lockhart, "none of the pamphleteers could detect any material errors." The accounts of Mignet,2 Thiers, ^ and Madame de Stael are much recommended. The Memoirs of Talleyrand, Fou- che, La Fayette, the Prince of Canino, and every character of the times, are among the very best sources. The index of the Edinburgh and Quarterly will also be a ready clue to the most able dissertations. Few books relating to the revolution are reviewed without serving as a theme for an essay on the times. Sydney Smith,'' in his article on " Bentham's Falla- cies, "* says, the use of a review is to give a man who has only time to read ten pages the substance of two or three octavos. There are of course numerous ex- cellent works, which it were as little useful as prac- ticable to mention. My only care is that the few works I specify on each subject be inferior to none for a commencement. I would specify more particularly Burke's Letters on the French Revolution : this is a book which no English scholar should fail to read. Mackintosh's reply gives the other side of the ques- tion. "The flow of Burke's language is like that of a mountain torrent rushing impetuously down over crags and rocks ; that of Mackintosh resembles a stream smoothly gliding through ornamental grounds. Campbell said, that though the greater part were lost, any ten consecutive sentences would show the hand of a master as plainly as the genius of a sculptor is discerned in the mutilated marble of Theseus. If to these volumes is added the criticism of Alison's His- tory in the Edinburgh Review, the reader will know all that he can desire on this momentous question. The French characters in Brougham's "Statesmen of George III." are well worth reading. Ireland's "Last Seven Years of France," from 1815 — 1822, is a book of lively interest on a very eventful period. Dr. Smyth's second course of Lectures treats ex- clusively on the French Revolution. Other works worthy of notice will be found in my last section of English History. ' Alison's History of Europe during the French Revolution, in 4 large 8vo. vols. Harper & Brothers. ^Mignet's French Revolution, 1 vol. 8vo. Car- vills, New York. ' Thiers' History of the French Revolution, 2 vols. 8vo, and The Life of Napoleon, by the same author, the whole complete in 3 vols. 8vo, price $2.25. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. ■* Rev. Sydney Smith's Works, complete in 1 vol. 8vo. mcluded in Carey & Hart's "Modern Essay- ists. J Bentham's Fallacies, a complete edition of the Works of Jeremy Bentham, recently published by Chambers, Edinburgh. I Two subjects only remain to be mentioned in con- nection with modern history — India, and the rest of our colonies, and America. Of British India I have before spoken. Hall's Travels contain a good epitome of its history. The Cyclopaedias also contain epitomes more or less con- cise, but each sufficient for general purposes. The history of British India in ilie " Family Library," and a volume of " Martin's Colonies,"^ will also be a ready source of knowledge. Either of these works, as well as parts of Miller's " George III.," will give facts, which, as they cannot be known too well, so they cannot be taught too simply. But the policy, principles, conclusions, and connection of eflecis with causes, are as much more valuable than mere facts, as the working and answer of a sum is more useful than the mere stating and data of the first line : there- fore read Mills's'^ or Malcolm's^ "India," or both. I say both, because it is little trouble to read the second treatise when you knoxu the first — not when you have* merely read the first. Inexperienced readers who cannot readily grapple with books of this kind, and really k7iow them, should choose others. Musicians tell us to play easy pieces first, for it will take less time to learn one-and-twenty pieces of music if each is more difficult than the next preceding, than to learn only the one which is most difficult without the gradual discipline of the remaining twenty. The " Life of Warren Hastings," or the article upon it in the Edinburgh Review in 1842,9 should be read in connection with Edmund Burke's speeches. These speeches were delivered when Burke was nearly sixty years of age : his " Essay on the Sub- Hmeand Beautiful"'" was published when he was only twenty-eight ; yet it has been observed as very re- markable that Burke displayed far more poetical ima- gination in his speeches than in this essay, written at an age and on a subject better suited to call forth imaginative powers. 'I'he name of Hastings will re- mind my readers of the "enchanting power" which Pitt allowed to the eloquence of Sheridan on Hast- ings's trial. But the oratory of Sheridan was like the music of Paganini, which died with him. The oratory of Burke reminds us of many a musical genius who has left the world a written record of that harmony of soul, which he had neither the voice nor hand to express. Burke's speeches, and indeed all his writings, are what Thucydides would term Krvjia k ad. Burke had the same kind of knowledge of what things were natural, what artificial, what things belonged to the individual, and what to the species in the body politic, as a skilful physician possesses re- specting the human frame. As anatomy and practice have taught the one, observation and analysis have taught the other. Burke is one of the chosen few, who, like Thucydides on the plague of Athens, and hke Shakspeare on every subject, has shown that what is true to nature is true always. Writings of this class exactly exemplify the saying of the Wise man : — " The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be, and that which is done is that which shall he done." And if any man says, "See this is new," let him look in the writings of such men as Burke, and he will find the case foreseen, the rule provided, and his wisdom forestalled, and that " it hath been of old time which was before us." The best of all Burke's speeches to read, as Mr. Prior in his " Biography" observes, is that on the Arcot debts ; yet Pitt and Grenville agreed, while it was being delivered, that it was making so little impression on the House, that they need not answer it. On the ancient state of India, read one volume by fi Martin's Colonies, 10 vols. ISmo. London. ■^ Mills's History of British India, 6 vols, 8vo. London. A supplement to which is now preparing. 8 Sir John Malcolm's India, 2 vols. 8vo. London. 9 Macaulay's articles on Warren Hastings and Lord Clive, in Carey & Hart's " Modern Essayists." '" Burke on the Sublime and Beautiful, 1 vol. 12mo. Harper & Brothers, New York. c2 30 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. Robertson, with notes and illustrations referring to other valuable writings. The Life of Clive' will give much information on the events of the last century ; while the lives of Sir T. Munroe and Lord Wellesley will give later times. Heber's Journal^ is an elegant composition, of which no one would like to remain wholly ignorant ; but it is principally valuable to the traveller in Hindostan. The same may be said of the Duke of Wellington's Indian despatches. It is true that every man of the least curiosity must prize a record so suited to give the impress of the great mind of its author ; still I would allow much weight to the words of my friend, Captain B : "The proper persons to buy the Duke's 'Despatches' are cadets. You cannot make them a more appropriate present. Every man de- serves to be cashiered who pretends to serve in India, without reading till he knows the contents of every despatch, letter, and memorandum." I will mention .two other standard works — one, the work of Sir Alexander Burnes :* the second, the work of the Hon. M. Elphinstone, of which Sir R. Peel said in the House of Commons, that it was a book of deep learn- ing, of the first authority, and the latest information. On America, read Robertson's history of the con- quest and early settlements, a simple but deeply in- teresting narrative. On the curiosities of Mexico, ■* any catalogue will refer you to many accounts, with prints showing memorials of the long-lost arts of a most remarkable people. Inquire also for similar works on Peru ; and examine the curiosities collected in the British Museum. I lately saw a Peruvian mummy in Dublin, at the College of Surgeons. Dr. Johnson said, that a man who travels must take knowledge out with him, if he would bring know- ledge home. This is as true of visiting collections from foreign countries, or reading books which de- scribe them, as in visiting the countries themselves. While reading, we should think of things to examine when we visit a museum, and while walking about a museum we should think of new questions to be solved when we return to our reading. Catlin's work, illustrated with numerous plates, on the North American Indians, is well worth perusing ; as also is the review of it in the " Edinburgh." Several simi- lar books have lately been published, describing mat- ters of the greatest curiosity in North America. On Canada and Nevfoundland, read Martin's " Colo- nies" or articles in the Cyclopaedias. On the United States, Buckingham's Travels, ^ Stuart's North Ame- rica, and Murray's Travels in the United States.^ Those who would more detfeply study the political machinery of the States should read Miss Martineau's very excellent account, and Bancroft's United States.' On the Boundary Question, read the article in the Quarterly for March, 1841, which contains an intelli- gible map of the long disputed territory. There has been another article since on the same subject. On 1 Lockhart's Life of Clive, 1 vol. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. 2 Heber's Journal in India, 2 vols. 8vo. Carey, Lea & Carey. ' Sir Alexander Burnes's Travels in India, 2 vols. Carey &. Hart, Philadelphia. Sir Alexander Burnes's Cabool, 1 vol. 8vo. 25 cents. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. Lt. Eyres's Journal of a Campaign in Aff- GHANI3TAN, 1 vol. 25 ccuts. Carey & Hart, Phila. * Brantz Mayer's Mexico, 1 vol. with numerous illustrations. J. Winchester, New York. Prescott's History of Mexico, 3 vols. 8vo. Harper & Brothers, New York. 5 Buckinsham's Travels in America, 2 vols. Harper 8c Brothers, New York. 6 Murray's Travels in United States, 2 vols. Harper & Brothers, New York. ' Bancroft's History of the United States, 3 vols. 8vo. Little & Brown, Boston. Graham's United States, with notes and addi- tk>ns. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. the sad story of the American debts, Sydney Smith would, doubtless, advise all the world to read his let- ters, which are not a little severe on the repudiators. The preceding observations on Modern History I trust will be found sufficient. "?/[artin's Colonies" will convey the latest information on Malta, Gibraltar, and the rest of our settlements ; while the general history of the continental nations is given in the Cy- clopaedias quite as fully as most readers can require. Concerning France, ^ the life of Richelieu and others, with histories of kings, or reigning families of most interest, may easily be selected, arranged, read, and digested, according to the principles already explained. The peculiar fancy of some readers may tempt them to search deeply into other parts of modern history ; though I should strongly advise readers to give the preference to the portions already discussed. For these are the portions most generally studied ; no slight proof that experience has shown them to be best suited to the opportunities and wants of the pre- sent state of society. The study of history and gene- ral literature is like the study of law : that man reads to most advantage who makes such a selection from the ponderous records of the wisdom and folly of the past as enables him not to boast of recondite learning, but to bring most to bear at a given moment, to sup- port his own arguments, or refute his adversary. Old people, old in years but not in understanding, form most exalted notions of the literary advantages of the rising generation. They seem to think that difficulties diminish as books increase ; whereas, in furnishing our minds, as our houses, more is expected in proportion to our facilities. The term, well-in- formed is not less a word of comparison than the term rich. And however much the labours of the learned may slope the way, the temple of knowledge may always be represented on a hill enveloped in a mist : the ascent should be drawn most precipitous and cloudy at the bottom, with crowds of travellers, dull, heavy, discouraged, and bewildered ; while, towards the top, the slope should be gradual, the travellers few and far between, looking better both in health and spirits, and the mist clearing away, till the one happ.y man on the summit is in a flood of light, and cannot take off his hat, to hurrah, for the sun in his eyes. Fancy would add sign-posts with "Beware of man-traps," — " Try no short cuts." — " The best road lies over the hill." In the foreground swarms of little children, of pantomimic proportions, might be selling penny guide-books to many an eager pur- chaser ; while one or two sages were standing aside, presenting a chosen few with lectures of a far less tempt- ing appearance on patient and methodical industry. By a catalogue now before me, my attention is drawn to the following publications for the benefit of those who would complete their collections of works on modern history : 1. " Origin, Progress, and Fall of Freedom in Italy, from 476—1805, a. d.," by Sismondi.^ I know this to be a good standard ^vork. 2. " A Second and Elementary History of Eng- land," by Keightley, who is a very patient and ac- curate compiler. 3. Thomas Moore's "History of Ireland;"'" the only history of any note. 4. Sir W. Scott's " History of Scotland,"" which I found as amusing and instructive as I expected from its author. "History of France, from the earliest Periods to the Abdication of Napoleon," by E. E. Crowe. '^ This history I found very sententious and philoso- 8 Michelet's History of France, now in course of pubhcation. Appleton & Co. 9 SisMONDi's Italian Republics, 1 vol. Harper & Brothers, New York. '" Moore's History of Ireland, 2 vols. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. " Scott's Scotland. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. '2 Crowe's France. 3 vole. 12mo. Harper & Brothers, New York. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 31 phical, but not so well suited to the young as to the reflecting reader. Dr. Dunham's "History of Spain and Portugal," 5 vols. There is also a "History of Spain," by The Society for the DiflUsion of Useful Knowledge ; al.=o a short history, by Calcott, mentioned by Dr. Smith. Dr. Dunham's " Germanic Empire," 3 vols. Dr. Dunham's "Denmark, Sweden, and Nor- way," 3 vols. Grattan's " History of the Netherlands," I have already characterized : the last half of the volume is most important. 1 vol. " History of Switzerland," down to 1830. 1 vol. Dr. Dunham's " Poland, to 1830." The account of Poland, in Alison, is very amusing. Bell's " History of Russia to 1807."i 1 vol. " History of the United States of America," from Columbus to 1826 ; by the Rev. H. Fergus. 2 vols. ON THE STUDY OF ROMAN HISTORY. The first question which would occur is, — upon what ancient authorities is the history of Rome chiefly based? the following: Livy, Dionysius of Halicar- nassus, Polybius, Diodorus Siculus,- Appian, Dion Cassius, Varro, Cicero, Sallust, Caesar, Vellcius, Tacitus, Suetonius, Plutarch, and Cornelius Nepos ; these are the principal classical authorities.' The Scriptores Hist. Augustoe, Procopius, and others, are comparatively little consulted, except by men of the enthusiasm of Gibbon. These authors I mention because their names so often occur that any young person would do well to employ an hour reading a short account of them from a Biographical Dictionary. I would also show how arduous is the task of becoming profoundly learned in every part of Roman History. De Thou wrote 138 books on the continental broils, during the last half of the 16th century ; but before he began he knelt down and offered up a prayer that he might accu- rately and impartially execute a work on which, from that moment, he resolved to devote his Ufe. Gibbon was twenty years composing the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. It would have taken many more years to write its rise and grandeur. To men of such genius and enthusiasm must we leave the original authorities, and, not entering the mine our- selves, we must be content with such specimens of the buried treasure as they are pleased to bring to light. The above list does not contain the names of half the authorities who supply the whole chain of history ; yet, short as it is, it comprises twice the number of books which enter into the classical studies of either university. 1 must now address myself to two separate classes of readers; first, to young men preparing themselves as candidates either for Scholarships or classical ho- nours at the universities ; secondly, to young ladies, and other general readers, who have only learning and leisure sufficient for a shorter and more general course. To speak of the first class — youth at school, or with private tutors, have, commonly, time for doing much to advance them at college, if they are but well directed. The mode of reading history which they must adopt is peculiar. Others may be content to read till they have satisfied their own minds ; but the former have to satisfy examiners. Others may be less careful of facts when they have gathered prin- ' Dunham's Spain and Portugal, Germanic Em- ?ire, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. — Grattan's Netherlands, History of Switzerland, Poland. — Bell's Russia, all in " Lardner's Cabinet Cyclo- pedia." Prescott's History of Ferdinand and Isabella, 3 vols. Little & Brown, Boston. 2 Booth's Diodorus Siculus, 2 vols. 8vo. London. 'Baker's Livy, 2 vols. — Murphy's Tacitus, 1 vol. — Sallust, 1 vol. — Cssar, 1 vol. — Langhorne's Plutarch, 1 vol. All published by T. Wardle, Philadelphia. ^ -~-^~^ ciples, and preserved the kernel without the husk ; but candidates for honours must prove thai they know principles, which they can only do by having facts available and ready at command. An examination i.« conducted by papers of quts'.ions wliich serve as pegs on which to hang your knov.-ledge ; but should you confuse merely the names of historical characters, you will lose the chance of displaying your attainments, although your mind is stored with the deepest re- flections on the Roman policy or constitution. The first thing, therefore, to consider is that you can never be said eflectualiy to know any more history than you can accurately write out, with time, place, and "cir- cumstance. Read, therefore, on the method before described, which I shall call the expansive principle. Begin with committing to memory an outline — then fill in as fast and no faster than you can make good your ground. In this way you will always be ready to be examined fo the extent of your reading, and ^yill rear such an historical edifice as will admit of con- tinual addition and enlargement without any part of your work being pulled down and wasted. This ad- vice is more simple than obvious. I have known many a student read for sixteen University terms, and collect materials which were at no single moment, from first to last, in a state to be put together, even sup- posing that the disorder of his mental store-room did not render it impossible to find or identify the many separate pieces he had laboriously collected. Your first book should be " The Outline of the Roman History, "3 by the Christian Knowledge So- ciety. This little book, insignificant as it may seem, is not to be despised. It traces the Romans as they gradually spread from a corner of Italy over nearly all the known world, and gives the chief dates, cha- racters, and events. When this outline is known thoroughly, it will serve as a memoria technica, to connect and facilitate the recollection of more minute detail. For, the difficulty in history is to remember not the princi[)les and general impression, but who said this, and who did that, and when or where parti- cular actions occurred : and in an examination you can never hope to show that you know any thing un- less you can give a clear and accurate account of it. Certainly you may be allowed to describe events more or less fully and in detail ; but every statement must be both connected and exact as far as it goes. Let this outline then be impressed deeply on your memory, so that you have, as it were, one Roman picture ever hanging before your mind's eye, to serve as a general map of the country, through which your classic path is doomed to lie for some years to come. A plan I found very useful was drawing out the lead- ing historical facts on a sheet of paper, divided into vertical columns, each comprising one century. Four black horizontal lines cut all the centuries into quar- ters, and the sheet into departments. After a little while I found it very easy to remember the contents of each department, which thus served as a clue to dates and a long series of events. When this outline is perfectly familiar, as, from its brevity, it may be in the space of a few days, you must proceed to fill it up according to your taste and inclination. The usual examinations for Scholarships, at which the candi- dates are too young to be supposed to have read very deeply, require an exact knowledge of the commonly received accounts of historians rather than that criti- cal research into particular portions which is required of the candidates for classes. In reading for a Scholar- ship you should prepare for writing historical essays, which will be read with reference to two points; first, to see if you have been in the habit of reading accu- rately ; secondly, whether you have reflected on what you read. As to the first point, the observations re- specting the outline history will be sufficient. As to the second, you must read a brief account of the whole, rather than a more copious compilation of part of the Roman annals. And for this reason ; — your best '' Outline of Roman History, in 1 small vol. 25 cte. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. 32 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. chance of displaying reflection will be by drawing comparisons between the events of the different pe- riods to which your theme or paper of questions refers. Should you confine your studies to one period only, this may chance not to be the subject of a single question, and all your industry may remain unappre- ciated. I should, therefore, advise you to take Keightley's " Roman History."' You have the choice of two works ; one is quite elementary, the other forms only two volumes duode- cimo ; and though certainly the first twenty pages on the early Roman History and Constitution is very dry and scarcely intelligible, still the rest of the volume is perspicuous, and contains enough for any Scholarship examination. The chief points To remark are these : — The successive changes in the form of government, heir effects, and causes: The gradual rise of theple- )eian power : The conquests and- accessions to the Roman dominions. Learn also to trace each distinguished character throughout all the events with which his name is as- sociated, so that you may be prepared to write the life of any party proposed. A iliciliiy of treating these subjects fully will only be the result of much comparison and reflection. During my early studies I once had a friend with whom I used to walk every day, and discuss parts of history ; and in these peripatetic lectures, as we used to call them, the glorious exploits of the good, as well as the high crimes and misdemeanors of the bad, formed thesubjectof very animated controversy. The history which we had so impressed on our minds we could scarcely forget ; besides, inconsistencies were detected, and explanations sought, which would not otherwise have occurred. What you only read you may doze over, and your mind may wander just where atten- tion is most required ; but you can hardly converse on a subject without reflection. At College it was agreed between three friends, myself and two others, that whenever we met we should endeavour to puzzle each other with a question on Herodotus. The continual exercise of recollec- tion and attention to which this mere frolic gave rise, rendered us wonderfully accurate in ancient history. I would strongly recommend some such diversion to the pupils in the upper form of a school. In one half yearKeightley might be learned from beginning to end. Some questions have been published, which are useful to try your knowledge when you have read about twenty pages, and laid the book aside. But to read with questions before you, is a most pernicious prac- tice, though one in which many indulge ; the conse- quence is that all original reflection is superseded, and every thing but the subject of the questions escapes notice. If any time remains when perfect in Keight- ley, take Smith's "Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities, "2 and read attentively about Consuls, Tribunes, Interregnum, Plebeians, and every term of oflSce or dignity in Roman History. In Scholarship examinations, questions on these subjects are very frequently given. The five numbers of the Roman History, by the Useful Knowledge Society, contain much information, highly useful to classical scholars : the chapter on the Credibility of Roman History is particularly deserving of exact reading. The article in the " Encyclopaedia Metropolitana," on the same subject, is very good, as also are some remarks which you may find by the index in Hooke's " Roman His- tory. "3 Certain lives in Plutarch may be read in con- nection with Roman History. Every student who can procure Anthon's Lem- priere's "Classical Dictionary,"'' should remember ' Keightley's Roman History. 1 vol. 12mo. Turner &- Hayden, New York. 2 Smith's Dictionary of Greek and Roman An- tiquities, with notes. By Prof. Anthon. Ivol. 8vo. Harper & Brothers. 3 Hooke's Roman History. 3 vols. 8vo. London. Very cheap. * Anthon's Lempriere's Classical Dictionary. 2 vols. 8vo. Harper & Brothers, New York. that the articles on Livy, Rome, and the names of officers and magistrates, are well worth reading. This will be enough to say to candidates for Scho- larships. Any who are quite sure they are perfect so far, may take a hint from the few remarks I have to offer to Candidates for classes. — These students I must refer to what I have said in my " Student's Guide to Oxford Honours ;" at the same time that I add, that the early part of Roman history, which is allowed to be the most difficult, has now been treated by Dr. Arnold. 5 Maiden's " History of Rome" is also used by candidates for honours. It is not generally under- stood that what is required at Oxford, for the final examinations, is a thorough knowledge of portions of Roman History, from the original authorities, rather than a mere outline of the whole. Lideed, a writer in one of the Reviews, about three years since, asserted that there probably were not three men in the whole University, inclusive of blasters, who had any more knowledge of the later periods of Roman History than could be derived from English compilations. The Oxford examinations in Roman History even for the highest honours are chiefly confined to the first and second decade of Livy, about two books of Polybius, to complete the history of the Punic war, and about half of Tacitus. To illustrate these books it is usual to read portions of the Roman History and Biography in the " Encyclopasdia Metropolitana." Since all sound education is based on the principle rather to form than fill the mind, and since Roman History is only one of many subjects of Oxford studies, these portions are enough for University examinations ; but not enough to satisfy those who have leisure to read, and liberty to make choice of what others have written, without the labour of historical criticism. Therefore, for young ladies, if they decide on reading Roman History at all, and for general readers, I must furnish separate instructions. Begin with the " Outline History" before mentioned, and learn it thoroughly ; then read parts of Keightley on the Punic wars, or any other events which curiosity suggests. Keep up the outline by continual perusal, and regard it as a map of the Roman empire, which you must daily consult to show you exactly where- abouts you are. Men of well-formed minds will readily observe all the changes in the constitution ; yoimg ladies, and others, in whom general curiosity and imagination predominate, can amuse themselves with the "most disastrous chances," and the many tragical positions in which Roman story abounds. Those who frequent theatres should see the Roman plays, Coriolanus, Julius Csesar, and others. Much talent and industry is employed in the principal thea- tres, in providing scenery, dresses, aud decorations, critically correct and true to the time and place in which each plot is laid. Many sets of Rdman en- gravings will answer the same purpose. Our appre- ciation of Roman history greatly depends on terms and descriptions bringing before our mind's eye scenes and customs as they really existed. Swallow-tailed coats, livery-servants, a regiment of Champagne bot- tles, fan-bearing young ladies, and ice-presenting young gentlemen, must not rise in our imagination when we read of a Roman supper ; neither must every shower of rain in Rome be associated with umbrellas, Mackintoshes, and cab-stands. To prevent these modern from marring ancient views, the accounts of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and the late discoveries in Etruria, will much contribute ; as also, I am told, " The Last Days of Pompeii, "^ by Bulwer ; a book much admired. The bold engravings of Piranesi, which may be found in some libraries, will make so deep an impression on the imagination that the build- ings of the mighty city will be ever present to our imagination. There is also an inferior series of en- gravings, in the same style, representing all the prin- 5 Dr. Arnold's Lectures on History. 1 vol. 25 cents. J. Winchester, New York. 6 Bulwer's Last Days of Pompeii. 1 vol. 50 cents. Harper & Brothers, New York. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 33 cipal scenes described in Rollin's' "Ancient History :" this series gives more figures and shows more of the Roman dress and armour than Piranesi. A small edition of Adam's "Roman Antiquities,"^ and Smith's "Dictionary of Grecian and Roman Antiquities," contain many engravings; and, be it observed, the pencil is quite as legitimate an instrument of instruc- tion as the pen, and often much more efficient. With these works on Roman Antiquities, readers of the most ordinary curiosity will find their attention riveted to a variety of articles, describing how that mighty people eat and drank, and bathed, and slept ; to say nothing of how they debated, went to law, and fought ; and how they went through the daily routine of private life. These works will make a pleasing variety while reading Keightley's History. Similar entertainment may be profitably derived from Fosbrokc's " Treatise on the Arts, Manners, Manufactures, &c., of the Greeks and Romans." Next to Keightley, or, in- stead of it, I can recommend " A History of Rome, from the earliest times to the founding of Constanti- nople," in two small volumes. This is chiefly drawn from the labours of the greatest of living historians, Schlosser : some use is also made of the best standard histories. One continuous Roman History is enough for the general reader, and this from Schlosser, I think, deserves the preference. So far I have only recommended one Roman Out- line, price dd., and one History, price 12s. : and these, as I said of the histories of England, are mere skele- tons ; when you have a competent knowledge of them, and have perused the works on Manners and Cus- toms, proceed at once to the original authorities. The Punic wars in " Livy's pictured page,"^ which Clarendon took as his model ; the Catiline Conspi- racy, which Johnson allowed to contain historic por- traiture, because Sallusf* knew the characters; Ta- citus, ^ the philosophic annahst, who gives facts and principles, the secret springs and the great movements in the same sentence ; Plutarch,^ first the lecturer and afterwards the proconsul of Trajan, who studied at Athens, and travelled through Greece and Egypt ; the favourite author of Lord Chatham and Napoleon, each of whom would almost have said of Plutarch, with Theodore Beza, what, in substance, a writer in the "Quarterly" said of Boswell, "that if we were obliged to throw all the books in the world into the sea, this should be reserved till the last;" think of each time-honoured genius : how gladly would we invite him to wine and walnuts, and try to draw him out ; and shall we not read his works when elegant translations are in almost every library ? Have we not the curiosity even of the daughter of a country postmaster, who eagerly claims the perquisites of a peep at the letters of the great ? We are not obliged to read one of these works through, but should cease to regard them as sealed books. We may take a \ translation of Cicero's " Letters,"'^ and see what he ' had to say to his wife and family, and what to the I public, of those most eventful days. If we retain a i knowledge of the general history, these authors will serve to fill up the outline, and every new idea will I find its place, and tend both to pleasure and to profit. I Dunlop's "History of Roman Literature,"' in two I volumes, and Schlegel's " Lectures on Ancient and i',Modern Literature, "^ one volume, are standard works. i ' Rollin's Ancient History. 2 vols. 8vo. Har- jper & Brothers, New York. I 2 Adam's Roman Antiquities. 1 vol. Collins & iBrother, New York. j ' Baker's Livy, 2 vols. Wardle, Philadelphia. * Sallust. Wardle, Philadelphia. I * Murphy's Tacitus. Wardle, Philadelphia. 1 8 Langhorne's Plutarch. Harper & Bro., N. Y. i '' Cicero's Letters and Life, by Middleton, in jl vol. 8vo. E. Moxon, London. [ 8 Dunlop's History of Roman Literature, 2 l/ols. 8vo. E. Littell, Philadelphia. 9 Schlegel's Philosophy of Ancient and Mo- dern History, 2 vols. Appleton, New York. i 5 deemed almost indispensable for those emulous of classical honours. Such works, however, can give only the mere terms and sounds of knowledge to that large majority of readers who are unacquainted with Greek and Roman writers. A few hours devoted to the article on Rome, in "The Penny Cyclopaedia," will be enough to give a fair insight into the constitution as developed by Niebuhr. Of Cicero and his times, which are topics equal in interest to any part of Roman history, Middleton's " Life of Cicero" is the great authority. A very good short account, by my friend Mr. Hollings, is pub- lished in the Family Library. The Cyclopaedias also contain compendious articles. Macaulay's " Survey of the Greek, Roman, and Modern Historians,"'" published in selections from the " Edinburgh Re- view," is very good. The " Tour to the Sepulchres of Eiruria in 1839," by Mrs. Hamilton Gray, will be entertaining and instructive to most readers — to the classical scholar especially. Of Niebuhr's History" I have only to say that it is highly valuable to good classical scholars, but unin- telligible to most English readers. Those who feel a laudable curiosity to know the nature of the disco- veries by which Niebuhr has obtained his faif renown, may find a review of his work, which I remember reading, either in the "Quarterly" or "Edinburgh Review;" probably it is noticed in both. Twiss's "Epitome of Niebuhr" used to be popular at Oxford. Eustace's "Classical Tour"'^ will profitably re-- lieve and vary the study of Roman History. ON THE STUDY OF GRECIAN HISTORY.. On this subject, also, I must address myself to- cla.«sical students and English readers separately. The " Outline History of Greece, "'^ by the Society, is the first book for the candidate for Scholarships, by which I mean all young men who are desirous of im- proving their last year at school, or under a private tutor. Keightley's "History of Greece" will be the second book. The whole of the " Outline History" should be learned almost by heart, as I said before of English and Roman History. In Keightley you may be contented to read only as far as the death of Alexander the Great : the remainder you may leave till almost every other part of Ancient History is ex- hausted. Of course, the same principle of study, and the same degree of accuracy, will be required with . Grecian as with Roman History. Nine out of ten of ordinary advisers would tell you it was indispensable that you should read the whole of the Grecian His- tory, either by Mitford'* or Thirlwall.'s The time for reading Mitford, in my opinion, is now gone by : the best part is the Life and Times of Alexan- der ; and this is better done in the Biography by Williams, '8 in the "Family Library." '^ThirlvvaU's History is unquestionably a masterly performance ; but the question is not what is creditable to the writer, but what is profitable to the reader. When your mind is prepared to realize and make your own any parts of Thirlwall's History, then read those parts, and those only. You will ask to what preparation I allude : I mean that Thirlwall classifies facts, extracts, '"Macaulay's Survey of the Greek, Roman, AND Modern Historians, in Edinburgh Review, all included in his " Miscellanies," in 1 vol., which forms part of Carey & Hart's " Modern Essayists." " Niebuhr's Rome, new edition, 5 vols. Lea & Blanchard. '2 Eustace's Classical Tour, 2 vols, price $2.50. Baudry, Paris. '3 The Outline of the History of Greece, by the Society, in 1 small vol. 25 cts. Carey & Hart. '* Mitford's Greece, 8 vols. 12mo. London. '5 Thirlwall's History of Greece, in 1 large 8vo vol. Harper & Brothers, New York. '6 Williams's Life of Alexander, price 50 cts. Harpers' Family Library. 34 A COURSE OF EI^GLISH READING.' principles, and makes comments. The preparation requisite to profit by his writings is therefore three- fold : first, to be familiar with the facts which he quotes ; that is, to take at a glance any sentence from Herodotus,' Thucydides, or others, and feel a curi- osity to know whether he has any thing more to say of it than you already know. Evidently, if you have never seen the sentence, it must, fiom want of pre- vious thought and association, be a burden to your memory without assisting your understanding. The second preparation is, to be used to compare some at least of the sentences which Thirlwail classifies : then, and then only, will you be improved by that increased quickness of observation, and that ready comprehension of all the bearings of facts, which a good history should serve to promote. An historian, like a judge, should sum up, arrange, and weave into one plain story, all that falls from competent wit- nesses; while the reader, like a juryman, should de- cide, not by the learning of the judge, but the bearing of the evidence. It follows, then, that besides being first conversant with facts, and, secondly, having viewed them in connection, the third qualification is a competence to form an independent judgment upon them. Few persons, I admit, enjoy this threefold qualification for the whole of any history ; still a ma- ture mind can weigh and decide on one page, under- stand enough to assent to a second, and suspend judg- ment on a third. But I am at present addressing youths whose minds are not matured, and who are required by the university system to read history ra- ther to form than to fill the mind, and for discipline rather than for information. But on this topic I must refer to my "Student's Guide," which I have the satisfaction of knowing that one of the most expe- rienced examiners has long been recommending for the guidance of his pupils. Keightley has also written a small elementary flistory of Greece.^ Before either of these publica- tions there appeared a History of Greece, by the Useful Knowledge Society, which, as I know by private information, was first submitted to the re- vision of Dr. Arnold. This contains about 300 double- columned pages ; the first 150 of which comprise all events to the death of Alexander. Some prefer Keightley's History. Certainly, as Mr. Keightley was the later writer, he had more advantages ; he is allowed to be a scholar of very extensive reading. The student who has followed my advice so far, may read the lives of Pericles,' Nicias, and the other Grecian characters in Plutarch. Above all, he should learn most accurately every event in those chapters of the first book of Thucydides, which treat of the interval between the Persian and Peloponnesian wars : here part of Thirlwall's Greece will be the best com- mentary. Let him read this portion till he can trace every step in the rise of the Athenian supremacy. I have now given as long a course of Grecian His- tory as any youth can be expected to know perfectly before he enters the university : I would add more, but I have not forgotten my college days, and all the instructive retrospect I have often enjoyed in com- paring notes with old friends. Very great designs and comparatively very little doings I find enter into the confessions of every student. Y oung persons are always sanguine ; and when they once are betrayed, by a very excusable but fatal ambition, into forming too large a plan, the work is wanted long before the two ends meet. Books, however short, require a cer- : tain time for reading, a certain time for reflecting, and a certain time to digest ; that is, to bleijd with our • system, to become part of our mental implements, and to serve as a common measure and every-day : standard of thought. ' Beloe's Herodotus. T. "Wardle, Philadelphia. 2 Keightley's History of Greece, 2 vols. Tur- ner & Hayden, New York. 3 Pericles and Aspasia. Imaginary Conversa- tions, by Walter Savage Landor, 2 vols. Carey & Hart. It is worth remembering that a man never learns the use of instruments, whether mental or physical, so readily or so thoroughly as when he has few of them. The rude implements of the Indian have sur- passed the machinery of Manchester. "John Hun- ter's head," said Abernethy, " was like a beehive ;" not that he meant to say it was all in a buz, but that it had a separate cell for every store. The modern Attic bees are in a hurry to gather the honey before they have prepared the wax. My advice is to read on each subject one outhne, again and again, till you have once formed the cells: you may then sip of every flower in the wild field of literature, — fill with- out confusion, and preserve without loss. • To candidates for university honours I have little more to say on Grecian History. I must again refer to some general remarks in " The Student's Guide." Since 1836, the year in which it was written, we have been favoured with the works of Keightley, Thirl- wail, and Wordsworth.* Of the value of the last two, if read judiciously, in a spirit of inquiry, we can hard- ly say too much. The general error of Oxford class- men is confining themselves too much to the books they propose for examination. The mind requires not only relief but variety, which Wordsworth's "Greece," a book of entertainment and lively inte- rest, is well calculated to afford. Eustace's " Classi- cal Tour" is of similar value to the readers of Roman literature. I would also suggest translations of Ar- rian,5 Pausanias,^ Xenophon, (especially his smaller treatises,) and almost every original authority which comes to hand. These you may read for variety. Far from intending to overtask your mind, I advise you to read more or less, to select the amusing, or to toil through the intricate, according to the principle I have already vindicated of being guided by taste and in- clination. While the subjects of your regular classi- cal studies form the cells, translations will furnish stores to fill them. Many classical scholars will be ashamed to confess that they have any occasion to read translations. But, with a little reflection, all must allow that when a critical knowledge of the text, and an accurate recollection of the matter of sixteen or more Latin and Greek books are required, very little time can remain for reading the many works which are so desirable to illustrate them. These, therefore, I propose to read by the medium of translation. Surely it is as worthy of a scholar to read a translation of Xenophon, as part of a history which gives the narrative of Xenophon, not only translated, but condensed. Many talk of reading Greek like English ; but there are very few men who can read other languages, least of all Greek and La- tin, with quite as Kttle effort as their own. Bring any silly pretender to the proof; lay before him the first i column of the Times, and the first page of the Ora tores Attici,^ and challenge him to a trial. The , truth is, there is a kind of short-hand reading, by which we catch the sense of a sentence without see- ing more than one word in a fine. Without this expeditious act, which we practise quite unconscious- ly, the time and toil of reading would be greatly in- creased. And will any one pretend that he could skim over Plutarch as safely as Langhorne's transla- tion ? It is plain that sound scholars may find time for translations when too weary for the original ; and I can only say that the translation of cotemporary authors forms a better commentary than any English essays I can recommend. _ i ^ English translations are chiefly useful to the classi-IJ cal student in two ways. To leave entirely out of Jf „ the question how readily translations explain difficult passages of those authors which are read in the origi- nal, without arguing how much they may contribute to elegance, and how much they do contribute to ^ Wordsworth's Greece, beautifully embellished, in 1 vol. 8vo. London. 5 Rook's Arrian, 1 vol. 8vo. London. 6 Pausanias's Greece, 3 vols. 8vo. London. , ' The Oratores Attici, 16 vols. 8vo. London, i A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 35 idleness, and sap the foundations of all sound scholar- ship, — the first use of translations to classical students, who have not time to read the originals, is to enable them more thoroughly to appreciate, and therefore to profit by, the historical compilations to which they are obliged to trust for a large part of Grecian as well as Roman History. Let every student of Grecian History keep a well-read, " marked and quoted" copy of Keight- ley ; let this form his outline, or, as Abernethy would say, his series of cells ; and during his leisure hours let him amuse himself with marking on the margin any part of Plutarch, Pausanias, or other au- thority which he identifies in Keightley. With a little reflection he may sec that Keightley (for we all are fallible) has said too much on one point, too httle on another, and has not chosen the best illustration or argument in support of a third. This exercise of judgment is very improving ; indeed it is more im- proving to think erroneously sometimes than to follow blindly along, like a traveller who observes only what his guide points out. Practice in this, as in other matters, soon makes perfect, and rewards persever- ance with most pleasing satisfaction. The student should try continually to enlarge the sphere of his judgment, and gradually extend these marginal notes and references, which will delightfully mark his pro- gress over the greater part of the volume. How many a classical anecdote passes traceless through the mind, because we want a cell for it — because we have no ideas to keep it company — no such common- place book in which to set it down ! How difficult is it for the young to see that the value of facts, as of figures, is determined by the series in which they stand ! Yet nothing is more likely to render us alive to their value than the constant comparison to which this use of translations will lead, between some seem- ingly unimportant observation of Plutarch and the social or political institutions which it ingeniously elucidates in the pages of Keightley or Thirlwall. The first time we read Herodotus it seems like a collection of stories ; at the second reading we begin to trace the connection, till gradually the mist clears away, the scene becomes distinct, and large sections of the ancient world open to our view. Another sug- gestion for expanding the mind and teaching " How to observe," (the title of a clever volume by Miss Martineau,) is to read Herodotus through, once, with- out assistance, and a second time in connection with a history founded upon it by Heeren, called " Re- searches into the Politics, Intercourse, and Trade of the principal Nations of Antiquity." Heeren, Hke those who travel into comparatively unknown coun- tries, is rather apt to be led too far by an endeavour to bring to light curiosities commensurate with his toil, and is accused of drawing conclusions rather more extensive than his premises ; but this is only saying that, in reading Heeren, like every author, you should attend to him and judge for yourself Again, translations are a key to the only true source of what to many readers is the most valuable parts of history, the manners, customs, and general sphit of past ages. Niebuhr has laid open great part of the Roman constitution ; but as to the habits of life, topics of conversation, and subjects of thought, I which filled up the twenty-four hours of every day at ] Rome or at Athens, here is still a wide field for dis- 1 covery. The books on Antiquities by Adam and I Potter' convey mere fragments, and at best are no I more to be compared to the perusal of the original authors, than the scraps of information from a tourist's [guide-book are to be compared to the digested know- I ledge and enlargement of mind produced by foreign travels. "For this knowledge of antiquity," said Niebuhr to a friend from whom I heard it, " the ma- jterials he widely scattered ; every scholar must col- tlect and arrange as many as he has the industry or the ingenuity to discover : and in putting them to- i gether, like the pieces of some ancient pavement, to ' ' Potter's Grecian Antiquities, 1 vol. 8vo. Phi- [iadelphia. form one consistent pattern delineating ancient life, the mind receives a most invaluable exercise." Sup- posing you wished to know the spirit of the laat cen- tury, and the general state of society, history would tell you that a taste for literature or sense of religion were less general than at the present time. By such vague and negative testimony, diluted in a flood of words, with the mere names of "men eminent for piety or learning," do historians convey impressions which they have derived, and which I would recom- mend my readers to derive, from memoirs and private letters written by the most distinguished characters of their respective times. Consider, for instance, the letters of Lady Montagu ; think not only of the ge- neral tone and spirit of them, not only of the social influences which must have combined to foster the social mould, and, so to speak, the ever-recurring forms and surrounding scenery which must have con- spired to form the mental, stint the moral, and wither the spiritual perceptions of the character those letters betray, — but think of the state of society which could have caused a lady of rank to make such a complaint as this in a letter to a friend ; — that so deplorably ignorant, and devoid of all but folly and vanity, were the minds of the young ladies of fashion, that they were more open to sophistry, and more commonly turned atheists, than even the professed rakes of the other sex ; and instead of that modesty which should teach respect for married persons, they really laughed at them, as having prudishly fettered themselves by an obligation with which the world had become wise enough to dispense. Equally great is the difference between the impressions which even Enghsh readers may receive by translations of Xendphon or Cicero, and the vague and senseless observations of modern writers. In short, if you would rather listen to " thoughts that burn," in " words that breathe," from a traveller telling his own story, than to a spiritless version second-hand — if you would be better satisfied with hearing truth drawn by instalments, and with all the reluctance of the seven teeth of King John's Jew, from a lying witness by a sharp counsel, than with reading a report of the same trial in ten lines — if you would enjoy all the strife of tongues, and time- beguiling interest of a debate in the House more than the summary in a country paper a week after — then must you also prefer picking your way through trans- lations of the classics, and culling the choicest sweets and flowers according to your own taste and appetite, to any essays on manners and customs, and any of those meager descriptions to which we may well apply the words of Byron, — " 'Tie Greece, but living Greece no more." By such arguments would I recommend the use of translations to classical students whose limited oppor- tunities must cause many valuable works to remain unread in the original ; but to the general reader I would also observe that Jeremy Taylor says, " I con- sider that the wisest persons, and those who know how to value and entertain the more noble faculties of their soul and their precious hours, take pleasure in reading the productions of those old wise spirits who preserved natural reason and religion in the midst of heathen darkness," such as Homer, Euripides, ^ Or- pheus, Pindar, and Anacreon, jEschylus, and Me- nander, and all the Greek poets, Plutarch and Poly- bius, Xenophon,'' and all those other excellent persons of both faculties, whose choicest dictates are collected by Stobagus ; Plato and his scholars, Aristotle,* and after him Porphyry, and all his other disciples, Pytha- goras, and especially Hierocles and all the old Acade- mics and Stoics vsnthin the Roman school." And he adds a hope that such readers " may be invited to love and consider the rare documents of Christianity, 2 Potter's Euripides, 2 vols. 8vo. London. » Spelman's Xenophon, 1 vol. 8vo. Wardle, Phi- ladelphia. 4 Gillies's Aristotle's Ethics and Politics 3 vols. Svo, London. 36 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. which certainly is the great treasure-house of those excellent, moral, and perfective discourses, which with much pains and pleasure we find thinly scattered in all the Greek and Roman poets, historians, and philosophers." Consider in the classical records of the wisdom of antiquity the faint glimmerings of life and immortality, which it remained for the gospel fully to bring to light; consider the evident yearning of the souls of men for knowledge ; consider the history of unassisted reason, which describes such discord in the feelings of each heart, and such want of harmony among the members of each state, as plainly showed how much men wanted knowledge of the uses and relations of the several parts of the complicated machinery of the moral world. Let these points be kept in view by those who read the classics through the medium of translations. Then will they read in Thucydides how Nicias, amidst all the dangers of the Sicilian cam- paign, tells his soldiers "his hope and comfort is to reflect that he had always dealt honestly with his neighbour, and been mindful of his God." How Euripides says, that " the man who has his God for his friend has the fairest hope of prosperity ;" and PUuy, that " it is god- like in man to show charity to man, and this is the road to eternal hfe." In the Greek tragedians they will see humility so inculcated as to show that the minds of the Athenians were fully possessed by the feehng that the man who did not ascribe his prosperity to the hand of Providence, but showed a proud and unchastened spirit, was in danger of severe visitations ; while, under the all-prevailing fear of Ate we may discern that the Athenians were less incredulous than many in later times of the truth of the threat, that the sins of the fathers should be visited on the children unto the third and fourth gene- ration. From such discoveries of unassisted reason, a certain class of philosophers who presume that every thing is contrary to all reason, which does not accord with theirs, may learn a lesson of caution lest they be refuted on their own grounds. These observations of the value of translations apply more or less to all readers. I must now address myself, as I promised, more particularly to young ladies, and other general readers. This class of readers must use the outline history and the works of Keightley before mentioned, and study according to the method explained with the His- tory of Rome. They may be satisfied with reading first of all to the death of Alexander the Great. To fill up their outline, they should read the Grecian cha- racters in Plutarch, — Xenophon's " Retreat of the Ten Thousand," and "History of Greece," which begins where Thucydides leaves off, near the end of the Peloponnesian war. It is quite certain, for rea- sons already published in the " Student's Guide," that Xenophon took up the pen exactly where Thu- cydides laid it down ; and I would throw out as a hint for scholars to investigate, whether the difTerence observable between the style of the two first books of the " Hellenics" and the rest of Xenophon's writ- ings does not show an attempt to continue the style as well as the matter of Thucydides. On the Pelo- ponnesian War, and the state of Greece for half a century preceding it, read Thucydides. Attend par- ticularly to the curious specimen of historical criticism in the first twenty chapters ; to all the speeches ; the plague of Athens ; the sedition of Corcyra ; the siege of Platseae, and all the other actions by land and sea : and read attentively from the beginning to the end of the Campaign in Sicily: Hobbes's translation, which most Oxford men possess, has a summary by which these portions may be easily selected. Beloe's Hero- dotus contains the materials of a very large part of ancient history. For the life of Alexander the Great read the work of Arrian, to whom the younger Pliny addressed several of his epistles. Arrian's history is founded on the memoirs of Aristobulus and Ptolemy Lagus, who served under Alexander. A life of Alex- ander by Williams, in the " Family Library," is well written. Gain an accurate knowledge of the route at the north of India : this will give an interest to Oriental travels lately written ; especially those by Sir A. Burnes and Masson, as also that of Vigne, whose conjecture, that Cabul is the same as Cau-Pol (Kaux-d- oou irdXts), is, as Professor Wilson allowed, highly pro- bable. The speeches of Demosthenes "On the Crown," and his three " Philippics," as well as that orator's life by Plutarch, may well be read in connec- tion with the history of Philip of Macedon. I should also recommend the " CEdipus Tyrannus" of Sopho- cles, the "Agamemnon" of ^schylus, translated by Symmonds, and the " Medea" of Euripides, as high- ly serviceable, to initiate the mind into the mysteries of Grecian fable. One of my female friends has read all the plays of these authors. You may also pick your way through some of the dialogues of Plato, especially the " Phaedon," and Gillies's translation of Aristotle's " Politics." As to the rest of Ancient History, instead of Rollin's "Ancient History," which, like Russell's " Modern Europe,"' tends, as I have generally observed, rather to the confusion than the diffusio7i of knowledge, read Heeren's "Re- searches both in Asia and Africa." This course of reading may seem long ; but since I leave each per- son to select, more or less, according to the strength of his appetite and digestion, I must say, that what is here proposed requires less time to follow, and less perseverance to overtake, than RoUin's "Ancient History." Pope's " Homer" I need hardly men- tion ; so generally is it known and read by both young and old. See Johnson's sensible criticism on it in his Hfe of Pope. I will now conclude my observations on Grecian History and Ancient History generally, with remarks for the benefit of all classes of readers. The reason I extend my lists of books, is to give more scope for variety of taste and inclinations, and not by any means to dispense with the rule, not to read' too much to read well. Egyptian antiquities deserve especial notice. Or- pheus, Linus, Musaeus, Amphion, Sanchoniathon and Homer, as well as Pythagoras and Plato, all visited Egypt. Solon, too, was assisted by the Egyptian priests: and it was in Egypt that Herodotus found abundance to gratify his inquiring spirit. From Egypt came the religion of the Greeks ; and whatever in Grecian mythology seems to coincide with the Law and the Prophets, has been not unreasonably sup- posed to have been derived from the Egyptians, and by them from the Israelites. That the Egyptians did receive many things from those guardians of the Ora- cles of God, can indeed hardly be doubted. lamblicus, the preceptor of Julian, a. r>. 360, speaks of " the inscriptions on the ancient columns of Her- mes, on which Plato and Pythagoras formed their philosophy." Now these columns existed in Egypt in the time of Proclus, b. c. 500 ; and on them were inscriptions according with the doctrine of the Trinity, as is ingeniously explained by Serle, in his " Horae Solitarias," who mentions also a name of the Deity " as near as translation can attain to Jehovah. ^^ If I add the columns mentioned by Procopius, found in the part of Africa where the Carthaginians settled, inscribed, " We are they that fled from the face of Joshua, the son of Nun, the Robber," the reader can require no further argument to show the interest which must attach to that land famed for wisdom in the days of Moses. Therefore, besides Heeren's "African Nations," Dr. Pritchard's " Egyptian My- thology" is a valuable work. I see an analysis of it advertised, with a preliminary essay by Schlegel. Sir G. Wilkinson's " Private Life, Religion, &c., of the Ancient Egyptians, "^ derived from a study of their hieroglyphics and works of art during a residence of twelve years, and published with 600 illustrations, is, ' Russell's Modern Europe, 3 vols. 8vo. Harper & Brothers, New York. 2 Sir G. Wilkinson's Egypt, with numerous illus- trations, 6 vols. 8vo. Murray, London. ^.^^ , A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 37 much recommended, and is, as far as I can judge, a very valuable work. Of Travels and Modern writings for students of Grecian History, the best are Dodweil's "Topo- graphical and Historical Tour through Greece," Cell's "Itinerary," and Leake's " Travels." Miil- ler's "Dorians" is only valuable to men of accurate classical reading; university students should read it in connection with Herodotus and Thucydides. The articles on Athens and Greece in the " Penny Cyclo- paedia," are very usefully composed. Miiller's " Attica and Athens" has lately been translated by J. Ingram Lockhart. Stuart's " Antiquities of Athens," with seventy plates, is valuable : but a glance at M«. Words- worth's " Greece," will show that he was well ac- quainted with the contents of all travels and works on Greece existing at the lime he wrote. Fla.vman's "Lectures on Sculpture," and the "Specimens of Ancient Sculpture, selected from different collections of Great Britain by the Society of Dilettanti," as well as the Townley, Elgin, and Phigaleian Marbles, in the "Library of Entertaining Knowledge," should be consulted on the arts of Greece. A " History of the Literature of Greece," by Miiller, will be found in the " Library of Useful Knowledge." Lastly, I would recommend my readers to gain a clear knowledge of the length and breadth of the seve- ral parts of Greece, especially Attica ; and to compare every measurement with that of some town or county of England. I have now said enough on the subject of history. There are doubtless many other topics and writers deserving notice, no less than some on which I have been most explicit. These, as I said before, the reader who comprehends the principle of the preced- ing observations, will readily discover, and study systematically without any more a.ssistance. I am only afraid that the variety of subjects and books already mentioned should tempt young persons to try too much. The first thing tp consider is, for what pur- pose you are commencing a course of study. If to humour a literary ambition, to be thought learned, and excite the wonder of the ignorant, believe me, that till you abandon this vile and degrading purpose, your vanity will increase faster than your learning ; what you gain in head you will lose in heart ; your mind will be filled, but not refined ; and you will excite far more jealousy than admiration. Read, as Bacon said, "for the glory of your Creator and the relief of man's estate ;" to improve your talents for running the race that is set before you, to prevent that periodical void within, which (like a vacuum) is doomed to fill, and that with gnawing cares and soul-debasing thoughts. That is true of our faculsies, which an old officer lold me of his men, that there was no such security for good behaviour as active service. The lusts of the flesh maintain " a long pull, and a strong pull, and a pull altogether," one way; and while reason, con- science, and religion, are arrayed against them, the balance may be preserved. But when these guards are not on duty, or perchance are slumbering at their post, it is well if the history of the past, or some such innocent recreation, employs our memory and engages our imagination ; because should these allies be gloat- i ing over old pleasures or devising new, they will be playing on such dangerous ground that they may I rouse up the enemy, and the citadel may be taken by i surprise. Again, in following out one course of reading, do I not be put out of your way through impatience, nor be disturbed because you do not seem to be advancing as rapidly as others. Among the many who desire to be I thought literary characters, nothing is more common I than an inclination to lock up the temple of knowledge ' and throw away the key ; or, on attaining any emi- i nence, to kick away the ladder that none may follow j them. — So beware of this class of literary impostors : I their life is one continued lie ; — a lie partly posi- ! live, because they pretend they know far more than i they do know ; and partly a lie indirect, but much I more mischievous, because they seek to magnify dif- ficulties, hint that things are not so easy as they seeni, and pretend that a peculiar talent is required for their favourite subjects. In every department of knowledge the man really proficient is ever desirous to lead others on; and, forgetting all the difficulties he encountered, firmly believes, and as honestly confesses, he could teach his friends in half the time his learning cost him- self. We should employ our minds with history, in the same way as we should have done had we lived in the limes described. We need not make a walking cyclo- pcedia of ourselves, nor feel more in honour bound to remember every date or circumstance of foreign reigns, than every event in last year's newspapers. We should read for the same purpose that we enter society, to observe. The wisdom of the lesson may be remem- bered when the facts are lost ; and the moral remain, though we forget the fable. The portions of history which enter into common conversation are limited, and experience will soon induce us to give them more attention than the rest. No man may be ashamed to say, when his memory is at fault, " this or that has escaped me ; let nie ask a question or two, and I shall be able to follow you." Few persons are soill-bredas to introduce abstruse subjects into general society. If you join a party of antiquaries you must expect aiiti- quarian topics ; otherwise no man of ordinary reading can be at a loss for facts while he has the power of j reasoning and reflection. Next to the improvement ^ and entertainment of your own lYiind, your design ; should be to inform yourself on the general topics of conversation. Read about the North of India, Spain, Ireland, or any other part of the world interesting at the time present. To read only of the past is to be always out of fashion, and as uninteresting as an old newspaper. Men of extensive reading find their chief advantage in this ; not that they remember all they read, but that they know exactly where to seek for information, and can with a little trouble bring to bear on the prevailing topic of the day such stores of varied knowledge as others would be quite at a loss to find. The following questions on history will be very useful to university students, and not without interest 10 others. They will also illustrate a few remarks I have to offer in the next chapter. HISTORICAL QUESTIONS. 1. What was Wolf'stheory of the Homeric poems? What arguments may be urged for or against it, espe- cially from internal evidence, and the character of the earliest poetry ? 2. The influence of Socrates on the succeeding schools of philosophy. 3. An account of the Greek and Roman systems of colonization, particularly of the latter. 4. Show from the historians and philosophers in what points law, and in what rehgion, pohtically in- fluenced the Greeks. 5. The chief events, with dates, in the earlier part of the reign of Charles the First, which led to the civil war. What was the Petition of Rights, and what the Bill of Rights? 6. The respective claims of Edward IV. and Henry VI. to the English throne, and the political effect of the Wars of the Roses. 7. Some account of Louis XI. and Philip Augustus, wiih dates. With what English kings were they con- nected, and how ? 8. The rights and influence of the free towns in the middle ages. [Balliol Fellowship, 1S42.] 1. Examine the geographical account of Africa as given by Herodotus, and illustrate it by reference to modern discoveries. 2. Trace the course of political legislation at Athens from the time of Draco to Pericles. 3. Give some account of the Persian empire under Darius Hystaspes, in respect to its military and finan- cial system. D 38 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 4. Compare the policy observed respectively by Thebes and Argos on the invasion of Greece by Xerxes, and account for it. 5. How far has the peace of Antalcidas deserved the reproach of having been a breach of political mo- rality on the part of Sparta ? 6. What was the nature of the Consular Tribunate at Rome ? What circumstances led to its establish- ment, and to its discontinuance ? 7. The history of Maccdon from the battle of Chae- ronea to that of Pydna, with the dates of the chief events. 8. What was the nature of the Decemviral legis- lation at Rome, of the Jus Flavianum, and of the or- dinances passed by Sylla ? 9. The character of the commerce carried on be- tween Europe and Asia in the reign of Justinian. 10. The extent of the empire of Charlemagne, and its division on his death. 11. What chief circumstances led to the decay of the power of Venice ? 12. Give some account of the chief events of Euro- pean interest in the reign of the Emperor Charles V. of Germany. [University College Scholarships, 1841.] , 1. The different theories of the origin of the Pelasgi, with the arguments which support them. 2. An account of Grecian politics at the time of the battle of Leuctra. 3. The sources of Roman law, explaining Plebiscita — Senatus-Consulta — Edicta — Decreta Principum — and Auctoritas Prudentium — the Code, Pandects, and Novels of Justinian. 4. A sketch of the life of Charlemagne. 5. The origin and functions of the Courts of Com- mon Pleas, Exchequer, and Queen's Bench. 6. An account of the Albigenses, the Crusade against them, and Raymond of Toulouse. 7. The causes of the decline of the Spanish mo- narchy at the end of the sixteenth century. 8. Arrange the languages of modern Europe ac- cording to their families ; mentioning briefly the chief elements that enter into each. 9. The chief demands of the English Parliament at the commencement of the Civil War. 10. A brief account of the following persons : Ti- berius Gracchus — Julian— Alcuin — Ansclm of Can- terbury — Ximenes — Thomas Cromwell — Richelieu — Lord Somers. 11. Chief events in England, and on the Continent, during the administration of the first Pitt, from 1756 to 1761. [Balliol Fellowship, 1841.] 1. An account of the Pelasgian, Hellenian, and Achaean nations in Greece. 2. The Messenian wars. 3. The chief points in the legislation of Solon. 4. Dates and circumstances of the battles of Plataea — jEgospotami — the Allia — Thrasymene — Philippi — Poictiers — Naseby — Blenheim — the Boyne. 5. Sketch of the life of Cicero, referring, if you can, to his works. 6. An account of Louis XI. and Gustavus Adol- phus, with the chief events of the end of the four- teenth century. 7. What parts of France were possessed by Hen- ry II., Edward III., and Henry VIII., and on what were their claims to them grounded? 8. The plot and chief characters of Shakspeare's Henrv VHI. [Bailiol Scholarship, 1842.] Questions selected from Examinations for Scholar- ships at Oxford, chiefly those of Trinity College. GRECIAN HISTORY. 1. From what classical writers is Grecian history chiefly derived ? 2. State the several accessions and advantages which gave the Athenians the supremacy at the be- ginning of the Peloponnesian war. 3. Write the life and times of Pericles. 4. State the chief events between the Persian and Peloponnesian wars. 5. Give the character of Herodotus as an historian, as to industry, judgment, style, and power of compo- sition. ( This is only to be attempted by those who can answer from Herodotus' s works, and not merely re- peal the opinions of others.) 6. Slate the several periods in the Peloponnesian war in which the Athenians had most reason to hope or to fear the issue. 7. Relate the life and intrigues of Alcibiades. 8. What countries were successively the scenes of action during this war, and say briefly what led to the several changes of the scene ? 9. Give, by reference to parts of England, the geo- graphical extent of Attica, — of the Peloponnese re- spectively ; also of that part of N. Greece which lies between the Isthmus of Corinth and a hne drawn east and west through Mount Athos. 10. Give an outline of the Grecian history between the end of the Peloponnesian war and the death of Alexander. 11. Explain the constitution of Athens and Sparta respectively. Explain Ephor, Archon, Dicast, Pro- xenus, Metceci, Helot, Agora, Pnyx, Areopagus, Amphictyonic Council. (Answer from your reading, and not from Potter.) ROMAN HISTORY. 1. Explain Plebs, Patres, Tribunes, and Inter- regnum, and the early constitution of Rome, as es- tabhshed by late writers. 2. Show the several concessions which established the power of the Plebeians. 3. What were the Agrarian laws ? 4. From what authorities is the history to the end of the republic derived ? State any arguments you know for or against the credibility of the early history of Rome. 5. Give the various changes in the Roman consti- tution, their effects and causes. 6. Trace the gradual extension of the Roman em- pire ; relating the time and manner of each accession. 7. Give briefly the causes, chief characters, and events of the three Punic wars successively. 8. Give the lives of Maecenas, Cicero, and Juliua Caesar — Ovid — Virgil — Horace — Livy — Juvenal — Tacitus. 9. The dates and circumstances of the battles of Actium, Philippi, and Cannae. 10. The names and dates of the Roman emperors, with the character of each, and chief events of their respective reigns. (Express this in one or two lines for each reign.) ENGLISH HISTORY. 1. How long did the Romans remain in Britain? 2. Explain the feudal system — the provisions of the Magna Charta, and on what it was founded. 3. The circumstances and parties of the battles of | Hastings, Wakefield Green, Bosworth, Flodden \ Field, Marston Moor, Worcester, Boyne, Quebec, Minden, Blenheim, Malplaquet, Aboukir, Trafalgar, Copenhagen, and Waterloo. 4. What was the peace of Ryswick — Amiens- Treaty of Utrecht— Bill of Rights — Act of Settle- ment? 5. Give the history of the Union of England and Scotland and England and Ireland. 6. The Revolution of 1688. 7. The causes of the French Revolution. 8. The history of the war with the American co- lonies. 9. What do you understand by the East India Company? 10. Give an account of the Reformation in England. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 39 11. What happened in the years 1715, and 1745 respectively f 12. How came England concerned in the Conti- nental war, and how did it spring out of the Frencli Revolution ? 13. At what period during that war had we most to contend with ? HOW TO REMEMBER WHAT WE READ. Most readers, I presume, will open this chapter with no little curiosity and a feeling which would be expressed by these words: "My memory is bad enough — would it were as good as that of such a one of my friends. Let me see if there can be any rules to suit so bad a case as mine." Now, before you decide that you have a worse memory than your friend, let me ask. Is there no one subject on which you can equal him ? You have no doubt observed that a large class of men who are devoted exclusively and literally to animal pursuits, sportsmen to wit, have the greatest difficulty in remembering matters of history or general litera- ture, but yet are so ready with the names of all the winners of the Derby, Oaks, or St. Ledger, and the progeny and pedigree of each, that a scholar would be as much surprised at their memory of horses and mares, as they could be at the scholar's memory of kings and queens. Probably you will now say, "All this we grant ; it is true we have memory for some things, but not for literature." Your meaning is, that you have memory whei^ you have attention. The sportsman cannot attend to books, nor the scholar to horses. The art of memory is the art of attention. A memory for literature will increase with that inte- rest in literature by which attention is increased. The sportsman could remember pages of history re- lating to forest laws or encouragement of the breed of horses, but not the adjoining pages on the law of succession, and only because he felt an interest, and consequently paid attention, in reading the one but not the other. Again, Memory depends on association, or the tendency of some things to suggest or make us think of others. The geologist remembers fossils, but not flowers, and the botanist flowers, but not fossils. Each has in his mind "a cell" for the one specimen, but not for the other ; and the observations which fall in with the ideas of the geologist, and link to many a subtle chain of thought, remain alone and unasso- ciated in the mind of^lhe botanist. Association cer- tainly is, in some respects, an aid to attention ; they are usually considered as distinct and the basis of Memory; therefore, every rule I can give for pro- moting either attention or association will be virtu- ally rules for Memory. Memory is assisted hy whatever tends to a full view and clear apprejiension of a subject. Therefore, in reading history, occasionally lay the book aside, and try if you can give a connected narrative of events. "What thou doest not know, thou canst not tell," but clear ideas never want plain words. Do not be satisfied with feeling that the subject is too familiar for repetition to be necessary. The better a story is known, the less time it will take to repeat. Put your " thoughts in express words." This is an invaluable exercise ; for, first of all, you will greatly improve your power of expression, and gain that command of language on which one of my friends heard Fox compliment Pitt, as having not only a word but the word, the very word to express his meaning. Second- ly, the practice of putting your thoughts into words will improve your power of Conception. When you see a speaker, in a long argument, contract and fix his eye as if on some aerial form, he is trying to body forth his ideas and hold them up as a picture from which he may select, read off, and lay before his hearers such portions as he thinks will convey the desired impression. Conception is the quality for which we call a man "clear-headed;" for this en- ables him to grasp at one view the beginning, middle, and end of what he means to say, and have the order- of his ideas at the direction of a cool judgment in- stead of depending upon chance. " Ut jam nunc dicat jam nunc debentia dici, Plcraquatdifferrat pricsensque in tempus omiltat." IIOB. To repeat a narrative to another is better still than repealing it to yourself; you are more excited to accuracy, and your memory is assisted by the degree of attention and association which casual remarks and questions may promote. After walking round Christ Church Meadow with a late fellow of Exeter College, relating the fortunes of the Athenians in Sicily, the very trees seemed vocal, and one weather-beaten elm at the left-hand corner of the avenue next the Cher- well so regularly reminded us of Nicias, that we used to say it afforded an unanswerable argument for the transmigration of souls. With a view to distinct conception. Writing is usu- ally recommended to aid memory. As to mere tran- scribing, though much has been advanced in its favour, I believe it is by no means to be adopted. Much ex- j perience has shown me that it not only wastes time, but deceives us as to the extent of our knowledge. We are flattered at the sight of the paper we hll, while in reality we are exercising not our wits but our fingers. Every University student knows how common it is to find men of misguided industry with desks full, and heads empty. Writing never aids memory but when it tends to clear Conception. Most J persons find it more pleasant to draw a sketch of a !■ subject on a sheet of paper than on the tablets of the mind, but let them not suppose it is more improving. When you want relief or variety, you may try to write, instead of repeating the subject of your morn- ing's reading ; but you will soon admit that the vivA voce exercise is the better of the two. In speaking of Conception, Abercrombie relates the case of a dis- tinguished actor who created great surprise by learn- ing a long part with very short notice. " When questioned respecting the mental process which he employed, he said that he lost sight entirely of the audience, and seemed lo have nothing before him but the pages of the book from which he had learnt, and that, if any thing had occurred to interrupt that illu- sion, he should have stopped instantly." Secondly. Memory is assisted hy whatever adds to our interest or entertainment. Therefore all the re- marks I have made relative to being guided by curi- osity and inclination are hints for memory. A man rarely forgets a fact which he hears in answer to a question he has himself originated; and the art of reading is, to gain facts in such order that each shall be a nucleus or basis, as Abercrombie says, of more ; in other words, that every fact may be an answer to some question already in our minds, and suggest in its turn a new question in an endless series. Thirdly. Memory depends mitch on a thorcnigh de- termination to remember. Most persons have me- mory enough for the purpose of their own business. Ask the guard of the mail how he remembers the places at which he has to drop his many parcels, and he will tell you, "because he must." And if you put the same question to any number of different persons whose fortunes depend on the constant ex- ercise of memory, you will invariably receive similar answers, which is a proof from experience that our memory depends very much on our own will and de- termination. If, by the force of resolution, a person can wake at any hour in the morning, it is easy to believe, that, by the same means, he may also have a powerful command over his memory. While at the University, I had a very remarkable proof of this. I was assisting in his studies previous to examination a friend who assured me he could not remember what he read ; that such had been the case during fourteen University terms. But I said, " Now you must re- member, — I know you can, — and I will have no more to do with you if you do not answer me correctly to-morrow on what we read to-day." Having rallied him in this way, I heard no moreot the complaint. After his examination he assured me h. 40 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. that he was perfectly surprised at the extent to which his inflmory had served him, and fairly acknowledged iluu lor years he had given way to a stale of mental inactivity, never stopping to try his memorj*, but drink- \)tg of the Castalian stream rather after the manner of Baron Munchausen's horse when he h'ld lost his liiiider quarters with the portcullis. A nun can re- member to a great extent, just as Johnson said a man inigut at any time compose, mastering his humour, if he will only set to work wiih a dogt^ed determination : " Fossinit quia posse vide/itur," "for they can con- q^'.cr who believe they can," is very generally true wlicre the mind is concerned. A very cammon reason that men do not remember is, that they do not try; a hearty and ever-present desire to prevail is the chief element of all success. Nothing but the fairy's wand can realize the capricious desire of the moinent, bat as to the objects of laudable wishes, deeply breat'ied and for many a night an 1 day ever present to the mind, these are placed by Providence more within our reach than is commonly believed. When a person says, If I could only have my wish I would excel in such an art or science, we may generally answer, The truth is, you have no such wish ; all you covet is the empty applause, not the substantial accomplishment. The fault is "in ourselves and notour .stars," if we are slaves and blindly yield to the pretensions of the many whose tongues would exhaust wiser heads than their own in half an hour. Before we complain of want of power and mental weapons, let us be sure that we make full use of what we have. When we see one mati write without hands, and another qualify himself (as in an instance within my own remembrance) for high University honours without eyes, a complaint of our memory, or other faculties, justifies the same con- clusion as when workmen complain of their tools. These, or at least other instances equally surprising, are founded on good authority. Still, Abercrombie justly says, that though the power of remembering unconnected facts and lists of words makes a great show, and is the kind of memory most generally ad- mired, siill it is often combined with very little judg- ment, and is not so important a feature in a cultivated miiid, as that memory founded on the relations, ana- logies, und natural connections of different subjects, which is more in our osvn power. Indeed, mere par- rot memory is of less use than is generally supposed. It is true, it enables a superficial person to pass ofl'lhe opinions of others as his own; but educated men can generally remember enough for their own purposes, and can command data sufficient for the operaMons of their judjjment. What we most want ready and available is the power and the science, not the tools. A mathematician is such still without his formulag and diagrams. The oldest judge remembers the rules of law, though he forgets the case in point, and ihe ablest counsel are allowed refreshers. Surely it is enough that our minds, like our guns, carry true to the mark without being always loaded. Fourthly. ISlemory is assisted hy whatever tends to connection or association of ideas. When I asked the friend above mentioned the particular means he took to remember his lectures previous to examination, he said, that besides looking every thing " more fully in the face" than he had ever done before, he tried " to match, sort, and put alongside of something similar." each event in its turn, and also to say to him.'=elf, " Here arc four or five causes, circumstances, or cha- racters relating to the same thing; by such a pecu- liarity in the first I shall remember the second, while something else in the second will remind me of the third and fourth " During this process, he said, he bec&me so f-imiliar with many facts, ihat he could remember without any association at all. Agnin, in all the works and phenomena of nature, moral or phy- sical, men of comprehensive minds discern a marked family likeness ; certain facts indicate the existeni^eof others; so that memory is assisted by a certain key which classification suggests: and thus one effort of memory serves for all. Association and .Xttcniion are both the basis of several inventions called Memoria Techiica, of which I will proceed to speak, more par- ticularly {(jr the benefit of students preparing for ex- aminations, and those who would follow out my plan of attaining accuracy of outlines of history and other subjects. Of Memoria Technica, the practice of almost all men ol distinction coincides with the avowed opinions of Bacon and of Abercrombie, that the memory of such events as these systems teach is scarcely worth the process; and that the same degree of resolution which their use implies would supersede the necessity of them, except to that extent only to which every man of sense can, and commonly does, frame the best pos- sible Memoria Technica, namely, one suited to his peculiar cast of mind. Of such kinds are the fol- lowing : — First. Looking at names in the index of a history, and following each separately through all the events with which it is connected. "This plan with Herodotus and Thucydides I found invaluable. It aids Memory most powerfully and leads to comparison and valuable reflection. Secondly. Marking the names, words, or paragraphs, in your book, or numbering the separate arguments by figures 1, 2, and 3, in the margin. This I found useful not only with history but especially with Aris- totle, and other works of science. It tends to distinct conception; to many casual associations; you some- times fancy you see the page itself marked with your own figures, and then one event reminds you of another ; it also enables you easily to refresh your memory of a book wWle you leisurely turn over the pages ; above all, it keeps ever present to your mind, what many students do not think of once a month, that reading and remembering are two different things. Thirdly. Making a very brief summary of the con- tents of each book, and thinning it by degrees as your memory can do with few catchwords as well as many. This plan answers many of the same purposes as the preceding ; it is valuable to one who is preparing him- self to write off-hand the history of any century re- quired. Take one sheet of paper and write words enough on it to remind you of the whole Outline His- tory, and after a month, try if a much more portable skeleton-key will not do as well, and this inay be re- duced in its turn till the whole has become transferred from the paper to your memory. Thus Niebuhr ad- vised his nephew to keep a list of difficulties or new words and blot out each as soon as he could. Lastly, associating things with places or objects around : thus th.i Roman orators used to associate the parts of their speeches with the statues or pillars in the building in which they spoke. Let my readers pre- pare a " skeleton-key" of each of the three Outline Histories, of England, Rome, and Greece, and take a walk in three different directions with each ; then will they find, though I cannot say in the noble sense in which Shakspeare intended, — "Tongues in trees — books in the running brooks, Sermons in stones — and good in every thing." Gray's " Memoria Technica" for dates is very use- ful. But it must be used for kings and queens only, the dates of other events being remeinbercd by asso- ciation. Example is better than precept. What man has done, man may do; so we will consider a few anec- dotes of men famed for powers and memory. Xenophon, in his " Symposium," speaks of Athe- nians who could repeat both the "Iliad" and the " Odyssey." This statement has been recommended < to the consideration of those who assert the impossi- jl bility of the Homeric poems being orally transmitted, fli What was practicable for one man, however extra- '<'' ordinary a character he might be, would be compara- tively easy for a society of Rhapsodists, if each mem- ber vvee intrusted with the memory of a part. The nation that exerts memory in a more surprising manner than any other at the present day is the Chinese. Medhnrst, in describing their education, enumerates nine books under the names of the "Five A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 41 Classics" and the " Four Books." The Classics I consist of a Book of Diagrams ; a Collection of Odes ; I The Public Ceremonies; The Life of Confucius; I and ihe History of the Three Dynasties. The Four Books are, The Happy Medium ; The Great Doc- trine; Book of Discourses ; andMencius: the bulk of these nine is equal to that of the New Testament ; and yet, says Medhurst, " if the whole were lost, one million persons (out of a population reckoned at 361,000,000) could restore every volume to-morrow," Public offices in China depend on e-xamiiiation in these books. Two per cent, of the population compete. At Winchester and the Charter House many a boy has committed to memory 10,000 lines, so as to repeat from any part at which he was told to begin. Matthews, the comedian, as we are told by his widow, had so surprising a memory, that he would go through an entertainment which he had not seen for many months. He has even been known to step aside as the curtain drew up, to ascertain by a play- bill the name of the piece advertised for the evening ; and this, strange to say, at a time when he was suffer- ing so much from cracks on the tongue that he had not spoken a word during the whole day, and felt the greatest pain in uttering what the audience were so delighted to hear. Addison's daughter, said Lady Montagu, was nearly imbecile, yet so powerful was her memory, that she could repeat a sermon which she had heard once, and could learn pages of a dictionary by heart. It is related of Bolingbroke that he learned Spanish enough iii three weeks to correspond with the Spanish minister. In a late article in the Edinburgh Review, on "Ignatius Loyola and the Jesuits,"' it is mentioned as indisputable that Xavier learnt one of the Indian languages, so as to prepare himself for bis missionary duties, in the same space of time. This is an instance of the power that enthusiastic determination e.xerts over memory. To the same pruiciple must we also attribute the fact that the Bishop of New Zealand preached to the natives in their own language as soon as he arrived, having studied it only during his voyage. This however, though highly meritorious, is by no means so surprising a case as that of Xavier. Eusehius says that to the memory of Esdras we are indebted for the Hebrew Scriptures which were de- stroyed by the Chaldajans. St. Anthony, the Egyp- tian hermit, though he could not read, knew the whole Scripture by heart ; while a certain Florentine, at the age of sixteen, could repeat all the Papal bulls and much more rubbish — a strange instance of mis- used talent ! These and many other instances of me- mory are given in Millingen's " Curiosities of Medi- cal Experience." Seneca tells us that the Emperor Hadrian could repeat 2000 words in the order he heard them. Petrarch says that Pope Clement V. had his memory impaired by a fall on the head (an accident which has been known to give a good memory to one who had little before), and by great application gained so much more power than he had lost, that he never forgot any thing he read. Cicero says, " LucuUus had a miraculcus memory for events, but Hortensius had a better memory for words." Quiniilian alludes to the well-known fact that we can repeat a task more perfectly on the following morning than on the night we learn it, and observes that things digest and settle in the mind during sleep. Many instances are recorded of men losing the me- mory of a language and speaking it many years after, during a brain fever or some exciting illness. The truth of this is beyond all doubt, though it seems very much Uke the tunes being thawed out of the frozen trumpet. Dr. Abercrombie knew a lady seized with apo- plexy while playing at cards one Thursday evening, and on regaining consciousness early on Sunday morning her first words were, " What are trumps ?" • In Stephen's Miscellanies. 6 Carey & Hart. HOW TO GAIN KNOWLEDGE OF FOREIGN PARTS. ADDRESSED BOTH TO THOSE WHO TRAVEL AND THOSE WHO STAY AT HOME. In reading travels, as in travelling, an inquiring and reflecting mind is requisite to collect facts and draw conclusions. Much letter-press as well as much ground may be passed over without rendering us any wiser or any better. Readers, as well as travellers, difi'er widely in curiosity and observation ; therefore as some tourists consult Guides and Handbooks to learn what to visit or for what to inquire, and others Miss Martineau, to learn "How to ob.=erve," so for those who have only the pleasure of thinking about travelling, perusing the tours of others, and laying down the exact route they would hke to take, should some next-to-impossible contingency occur, — to these speculative and fireside anglers in the wide waters of the round world I will offer a few hints suited to every variety of taste, showing how to gain as much know- ledge as possible of foreign parts without foregoing the comforts of home. Basil Hall advises a young midshipman to begin his career by "taking up a hne," that is to say, to re- solve onbuilding up a character either for practical seamanship, for science, generalship, or diploniacy ; so readers of travels should begin with choosing a topic which every volume may contribute to illustrate. Instead of turning over thousands of pages without an object, they should keep some one subject uppermost in their thoughts, on which they should try to become so well informed as not only to be considered, but really to be, competent referees whenever any ques- tion arises concerning it. Take, for instance, one of the following topics : — The history of man, or human nature under every variety of climate or influence, whether social or physical : the savage, the slave, the freeman, the heathen, the Christian. The wonders of creation, — the animals, produce ; natural phenomena, — storms, earthquakes, or erup- tions, in every part of the world. The arts and sciences, — literature, education, in- genuity, and points of superiority in different nations. Each of these subjects I will consider separately, pointing out the capacity required for each, and such authors as will be found most improving. First. As to the history ef man. This subject was chosen by Dr. Priichard, w"ho?e learned work remark- ably excriiplifies how to collect and classify informa- tion. The author appears lo have read all the travels he could procure, to illustrate the modifying influence of physical and moral auencies on the difierent tribes of the human family. From his work it appears that, however much may be said about the artificial and unnatural habits that civilization produces, human strength, endurance, and longevity — to say nothing of the development of those capacities which are deemed the proper characteristics of man — are greater amonsr civilized than uncivilized nations. This is a fact which the most ordinary reader would be curious to know : I have therefore selected it from a volume of deep and subtle investigation, to show with what care and interest we may illustrate a subject seeming- ly of deep philosophy. But these hints ate intended, not for the learned, but the ignorant. Catlin's " Notes on the North American Indians,"^ with 400 illustra- tions, contains a must curious his'ory of our brother man. From these sources we learn that works of art, considered impossible under all the advantages of a civilized state, are every day produced by the simple instruments of untutored nations. After read- ing Mr. Catlin's travels, and visiting his collection, I happened to take up Bremner's excursion in Russia, and shortly afterwards Davis's and Gulzlaff's ac- counts of the Chinese, which induced me to visit the Chinese Exhibition in London. Let any reader con- 2 Catlin's North American Indians, 2 vols. Wiley and Putnam. 1)2 42 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. eider the effect which must bo produced on the mind by the following observations relating to three races of men in distant parts of the world: First, Mr. Cai- lin showed an Indian bow which no turner in London could equal, and cloth of a texture which astonished the manufacturers of Manchester. Secondly, Mr. Bremner stated tliat the Russians, with no plane or line, nor any other tool than an a.xe, will cut with the greatest precision and join even edges. And thirdly, in the Chinese Exhibition appeared that varied collection of works of art too well known to need de- scription. Again ; how must the mind be opened and improved by comparing the different habits of life, — the food, the occupation, the character of these wide- ly differing and distant nations. And how much more light will be thrown upon man's history, if in the hfe of All Pacha we read of the state of Egypt, and see how that prince of slave-dealers carries on, or at least sanctions, the annual negro-hunts. One who has not read of the horrors of this chase has yet to learn how far it is possible for human nature, left to the control of conscience alone, without the chastening discipline of a Christian community, brutally to make prey of the flesh and blood of his fellow-man. In the exter- mination of the Red Indians by the encroaches of the colonists of America we learn more lessons of the same kind, though less cold-blooded and revolting. Borrow's " Gipsies in Spain,"' as well as his "Bible in Spain," which might as properly be entitled "Gipsy Adventures," together with the history of the " Thugs, "2 or Indian Assassins, will all be valua- ble to those who think that " the proper study of man- kind is man:" nor can any kind of reading afford more thrilling interest. Secondly. As to the wonders of creation and natural phenomena. This, like the last, is a topic suited to every capacity, — to the philosopher, who needs no assistance, as well as to the general reader, who would beguile a winter's evening by gratifying his curiosity about the wide world and all things that are therein. A little book, entitled " Physical Geogra- phy,"'' contains a good selection from the writings of travellers. But I shall mention other works pre- sently. Thirdly. The arts, sciences, literature, and com- parative superiority of different nations, can also be studied by persons of various tastes and capacities. Some may compare the works of art and manual per- formance only, and see how little the pyramids of Egypt appear, in any thing but their uselessness, when compared with our mines and railways. The measurement of some of the tanks of India and the wall of China may be profitably remembered by re- ference to our docks, canals, water-works, gas-pipes, and other machinery. Again, those of maturer mind may regard rather moral and social, than physical, grandeur; and that, as I have before said, without any hints or direction from me. My intention is to prompt, encourage, and suggest the first attempts of a large class of readers, who are so diffident that they will scarcely believe they can attain the information which most of their friends possess. These humble aspirants should be told that many a naturalist who has presented a valuable collection of fossils or other curiosities to a museum, has attributed ail his emi- nence to some accident which induced him to make a store of birds' eggs or snail-shells at school: so many an author who has enlightened the world on matters of the highest interest, has declared that he felt un- worthy of the honours conferred upon him, because he believed he owed all his success to some chance suggestion, lighter even than those now offered, which first directed attention to his favourite order of pheno- mena, and because the theory which he had originated was too obvious to be overlooked by any one who had collected the same class of facts under equal ad- ' Borrow's Bible in Spain and Gipsies in Spain, 2 vols, at 25 cents each. J. Winchester, New York. 2 History of the Thugs, 2 vols. Carey & Hart. 3 Physical Geography, 1 vol. Carey « Hart. vantages. Most truly may it be said that men of genius will rarely believe an investigation to be im- practicable to others which is easy to themselves ; still it seems highly probable that a patient adherence to a mere mechanical system of study has often pro- duced results, which, to those ignorant of the process, has seemed the work, not of industry, but of genius. " If I surpass other men," said Newton, "in any thing, it is in patient examination of facts." To the preceding we may add one more subject of investigation, and one which many will prefer, namely, Fourthly. The general condition of every nation in respect of climate and civilization. To readers who choose this topic I would recommend keeping either one large Mercator's chart, or a separate map of each quarter of the globe, on which to mark from time to time, by a peculiar colour or other convenient sign, such countries as travellers' journals enable them to explore. One of my friends had a map of England, on which he had coloured each road he had travelled, every county of which he knew the habits of the people or the produce and advantages of the soil, also each town of which he had studied the pre- sent'prospects or past history. He had also marked with figures many of the towns, as being of the first, second, third, or fourth class, in respect of population, having first determined the number to constitute each class. Such methods are a strong incentive both to deep research and methodical study ; they forbid us to forget that we read, not to count volumes, but to store up knowledge. The maps we choose should be originally blank ones, representing terra incognita; a dark colour may alsa be appropriate. We shall thus be prompted to study, that we may dispel this cloud which broods over the face of the earth, and diffuse instead some hvely hue emblematic of the fight of knowledge. After all that I have said on other subjects apphca- ble also to the study of travels, these few hints will serve as a sufficient clue to the shortest, safest, and most agreeable road to the knowledge which travel- lers can impart. Of all works which may be " skim- med," travels are those with which the reader may avail himself of this privilege with the clearest con- science. He is not bound to read more than one pas- sage from Dover to Calais, one ducking at the Line, or one account of old tricks upon travellers: the table of contents will generally point out the parts worth reading. It is proverbial that travellers' facts are not famed for accuracy, and are often partial and mistaken when not wilfully exaggerated ; but a traveller's opinions must be received with greater caution still. Indeed, this kind of literature in every respect re- quires much discrimination on the part of the reader. Respecting choice of voyages and travels, I might refer the reader to any bookseller's catalogue ; but in compliance with the request of a few young friends, who assure me they represent a great many more, I add the following list, at the same time observing that such parts of a volume as do not interest a reader, he will do well to pass over, for a time at all events. To listen when the speaker speaks against time, and to read where (as is too common with travellers) the writer writes against space, are equally void of improvement. First. For those who prefer voyages of discovery, whale-fishery, and all the phenomena and wonders of the deep, the voyages of Cook and Parry are to be preferred, because it is injudicious to remain ignorant of books which others know. The " General History of Maritime and Inland Discovery"'' has been written by W. D. Cooley, in 3 vols. This is more suited to the mature than the inexperienced reader. The "Lives of Drake, Cavendish, and Dampier, with the History of the Buccaneers," form one small volume, well calculated to show the state of nautical affairs in early days. * Coolet's Maritime and Inland Discovert, 3 vols., price $5. Edinburgh, A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 43 A *' Narrative of a voyage round the World, per- formed in H. M. S. Sulphur, 1836 — 42," gives a de- tail of naval operations in China. This is a work of authority. "Voyages and Travels round the World, 1821 — 29," by deputies of the Missionary Society. A "Narrative of a Ten Years' Voyage of Discovery round the WorldofH. M.S. Adventure and Beagle," with maps and illustrations. The " Travels and Researches of Humboldt," be- ing a condensed narrative of his journey in America and Asiatic Russia ; a work greatly to be recom- mended ; few travellers are quoted with more respect than Humboldt. " Narrative of a Whaling Voyage round the Globe, 1833 — 36," containing an account of whaling, and the Natural History of the countries visited. "An Historical and Descriptive Account of Ice- land, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands," one small volume. All which works are considered of good authority, and give much information in a pleasing way. " Basil Hall's Fragments of Voyages and Travels" have been already recommended, as equal to any wrhings of the kind. "Two Years before the Mast"' must also be noticed. With the foregoing list any young person, however unused to reading, may employ many a rainy morning, and probably gain a zest for subjects of another kind. Secondly. As to manners, customs, and the gene- ral state of different nations. These form more or less the subject of all travels, but more particularly " Catlin's Letters and Notes on the Manners, Customs, &c. of the North American Indians," above mentioned. "Travels in North America, and a Residence among the Pawnee Indians," by the Hon. C. A. Murray. " Life in Mexico, "^ forming vol. ii. of the Foreign Library. " Visit to the Indians of ChiU," by Capt. Gardiner. ' ' General D escription of C hina and its Inhabitants, ' ' by Davis. " China Opened," by the Rev. C. GutzlafT. "Narrative of a recent Imprisonment in China, after the wreck of the Kite." "Ten thousand Things relating to China and the Chinese," by W. B. Langdon, Esq., curator of the Chinese Collection ; which forms an epitome of go- vernment, literature, trade, social life, (fee. of the people. "Manners and Customs of the Japanese of the Nineteenth Century." " The Rural and Domestic Life of Germany, "^ by W. Howut. "Borrow's Bible in Spain," and "Gipsies in Spain," above mentioned. Which are works of very great interest, perfectly original both in style and matter. " Histor>[ and present Condhion of the Barbary States," with a view of their antiquities, arts, &c., by the Right Rev. M. Russell. " Nubia and Abyssinia,"'' by the same author. " Russia and the Russians in 1842, "5 by Kohl. " Excursions in the Interior of Russia," by Brem- ner ; with an account of Nicholas and his Court, and exile in Siberia. " Journal of a Residence in Norway, in 1834 — 5 — 6," by Samuel Laing. All these works are of indisputable value, and con- tain much to interest both and old young. • Dana's Two Yeaks before the Mast, 50 cts. Harpers' Family Library. 2 Life in Mexico, by Madame Calderon de la Barca, 2 vols. Little & Brown. ^ Rural and Domestic Life of Germany, by Wm. Howitt, 2 vols., price 50 cts. Carey & Hart. ^ Russell's History of the Barbary States, and Nubia and Abyssinia, 3 vols. Edinburgh. * Russia and the Russians, Scotland, Austria, AND Ireland, by J. G. Kohl all in 1 vol., price $1.25. Carey & Hart. Thirdly. For readers of mature mind, who can enter into historical disquisitions and historical reflec- tions : — "Notes (Moral, Religious, Political, Economical, Educational, and Phrenological,) on the United States of America."** Of this it is enough to say, that it is written by George Combe. " The Discovery of America by the Northmen in the Tenth Century,"^ by J. T. Siniih. Buckingham's "America." 'I'hc second series describes the slave states. Miss Martineau's "America."^ A book of very great observation and reflection. Sir F. B, Head's " Rough Notes;" the " Pampas and the Andes." Bishop Heber's " Journal ;"3 very elegantly writ- ten and generally admired ; though few readers re- ceive from it very lasting impressions. "Travels in the West. Cuba, Porto Rico, the Slave Trade." "British India,'" from the most remote Period. — Early Portuguese and English Voyages ; Revolu- tions of the i\Iogul Empire ; Accounts of Hindoo Astronomy; Navigation of great Rivers by Steam, &.C.," by Jameson, Wilson, Dalrymple, Murray, and others eminent for science. " Historical and descriptive account of Persia," Go- vernment Resources, Natural History, Wandering Tribes," by J. Bailhe Fraser. " Notes of a Traveller on the Social and Political State of France, Prussia, Switzerland, Italy and other parts of Europe, during the present Century," by S. Laing. " Greece as a Kingdom : Laws, Commerce, Army, Navy, (Sec, from the arrival of Otho, 1833, to the present time," by J. Strong. " Tour to the Sepulchres of Ancient Etruria, in 1839," by Mrs. Hamihon Gray. "Mediterranean Sketches," by Lord F. Egerton. " Narrative of a Voyage to Madeira." " Teneriffe, with a Visit to Algiers, Egypt, Pa- lestine, Tyre, Rhodes, Telraessus, Cyprus, and Greece," by W. R. Wylde. " Russia under Nicholas I." from the German. "Narrative of Discovery and Adventure in Africa, '- from the earliest Ages to the present Time," by Murray, Jameson, and Wilson. The same authors have written similar w^orks on discovery in the Polar Seas ; also on the more northern coasts of America. " Forest Scenes and Incidents in the Wilds of Ca- nada," by SirF. B. Head. Waterton's "Wanderings in the N. W. of the United States. Catching rare Snakes and Birds; Natural History. "'' Fourlhly. For those curious about ancient cities, ruins, and remains of by-gone days : — "Incidents of Travel in Central America, Chia- pas, and Yucatan,"''* by J. Stephens, with numerous engravings. "A Second Visit to the ruined Cities of Central America, "'5 by the same author. " Rambles in Yutacan ; or Notes of Travel through * Combe's Notes on America, 2 vols. Carey & Hart. ■^ Discovery of America by the Northmen in the 10th Century, 1 vol. Boston. 8 Miss Martineau's Amekiqa, 2 vols. Harper & Brothers, New York. 3 Heber's Journal, 2 vols. Carey, Lea & Carey. '0 British India, by Jameson, Wilson, &c. Edin- burgh. " Historical and Descriptive Account of Per- sia. Edinburgh. '2 Narrative of Discovery and Adventure in Africa. Edinburgh. 13 Waterton's Wanderings in America, 1 vol. Carey &. Hart. ''' Stephen's Central America, 2 vols. Harper & Brothers. '5 Stephen's Yucatan, &c. 2 vols. Harper & Brothers N^ew York. 44 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. the Peninsula, including a Visit to the remarkable Ruins of Chi-chen, Kabah, Zayi, and Uxmal," by B. M. Norman.' Laborde's " Arabia Petraea, and the excavated Cily of Petra:" very interesting and curious. " Narrative of a Journey to the Site of Babylon in 1811. Memoir on the Ruins, with engravings — Re- marks by Major Rennell — Inscriptions copied at Per- sepolis," by Claudius James Rich, Esq. Also of a " Residence on the Site of Ancient Nineveh," by the same author. " Sheraz and Persepolis," "Excursion in Asia Minor; including a Visit to several unknown and undiscovered Cities," by C. Fellows. " Xanthian Marbles ; their Acquisition and Trans- mission to England," by the same. " Cairo, Petroea, and Damascus," described by J. G. Kinnear. " Sepulchres of Ancient Etruria," above mentioned. "Topography of Thebes, and General View of Egypt." " Eboracum ; or York under the Romans," by Sir G. Wilkinson. " Pompeii ; an Account of its Destruction and Re- mains." " Egyptian Antiquities," by Professor Long. "Ruins of Ancient Cities," by Charles Bucke.^ Fifthly. For the readers of the classical and Biblical literature : — Sir A. Buvnes' " Travels to Bokhara and up the Indus" may be read in connection with the life of Alexander the Great. Cramer's Asia Minor, Ancient Italy, and Greece, are chiefly valuable to the more accurate students of the classics. "Biblical Researches in Palestine, Mount Sinai, ■ and Arabia Peirasa, in 1838, "' by Rev. Dr. Robinson. Wilson's "Travels in the Holy Land, Egypt, &c." " Letters on the Holy Land," by Lord Lindsay. Slake's " Northern Greece;" also, "Topography of Athens and the Demi." "A Winter Journey through Russia, Caucas\is, and Georgia, thence across Mount Zagross, by thf Pass of Xenophon, and the Ten Thousand Greeks," . by Migdan. Wordsworth's " Athens ;" also " Ancient Greece," and Eustace's " Classical Tour," above recom- mended. Sixlldy. For tourists in Great Britain or on the Con- tinent : — A full and impartial catalogue of all the most ap- proved works in every department of English litera- , ture is published annually by Messrs. Longman, con- ;. taining, under the head of " Guides and Hand-books," I a list of works for travellers visiting every part of England or of the Continent. In this catalogue the * tourist will find pictures, hand-books, guides, and tra- velling directions of all kinds. But since Dr. Johnson ' wisely said that no traveller will bring knowledge ,. home who does not take knowledge out with him, 1 i would strongly recommend every tourist to inform ) himself of the government, constitution, resources, and general nature of the town, county, or country he intends to visit. The traveller should know what to . look or inquire for, and should read sufficiently to un- derstand common allusions to such events of the day, i as every one with whom he converses will presume to r be too familiar to need explanation. For this purpose, '- besides books which have been or will be elsewhere ■' mentioned, I would specify for the Continental tra- ' veller — :„ . ' Norman's Rambles i^ Ytjcatan. 1 vol. H. G. % Langley, New York. I' 2 Bucke's Ruins of Ancient Cities. Harper & :;; Brothers, New York. ■ " Robinson and Smith's Biblical Researches in ' Palestine. 3 vols. Crocker & Brewster, Boston. Travels in the Holy Land. By E. Joy Morris. ,; 2 vols. $1.50. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. Turnbull's "Travels in Austria," in which we read of the social and political condition of that countty. Mrs. Trollope's " Visit to Italy." Forsyth's " Remarks on Antiquities, Arts, and Letters," during an excursion to Italy, in 1802 and 1803. "What to observe; or, the Traveller's Remem- brancer," by J. R. Jackson, Secretary to the Geo- graphical Society. " Belgium," by J. Emerson Tennent. Hugh Murray's "Encyclopaedia of Geography."* By help of this we may gain a knowledge of every country and town, with references to other sources of information. Hand-books to every part of the Continent have been pul)lished by Mr. Murray. In short, the literary demands of Travellers have been so well supphed, that, by communicating with an intelligent bookseller, we may often be furnished with works which would almost seem to have been written for our peculiar in- formation. Having largely provided for those who are happy enough to be able to travel, it is only fair to add a list of illustrated works, specially for the amusement of home-hound readers. — In conveying ideas of scenery and architectural curiosities, the pen must give place to the pencil. No description can place the same view of a fine landscape before the minds of any two persons, nor, indeed, fix a correct impression on the mind of one. Would that all travellers were able to publish in the style of Dr. Wordsworth's Greece! Indeed, the daily increase of such works as the Pic- torial "Times and Illustrated London News, gives reason to hope that in a few years publishers will be obliged to employ almost as many Artists as Authors. The maxim Nil sine labors, that is to say, all is " bubble, bubble," without " toil and trouble," though generally so true in literary pursuits, should be some- what qualified by what Horace says — " Segnuis irritant animum demissa per aurem ftuim quae sunt oculis subjecta tidelibua :" in other words, seeing makes a much more lively impression than hearing ; and pictures are a better vehicle of some kinds of information than letter-press ; therefore. " The Moselle, the Rhine, and the Meuse" maybe contemplated by the help of thirty drawings on stone, from Stanfield's sketches. " The Rhine, Italy, and Greece" forms another series, with descriptions by the Rev. G. N, Wright. "Italy, France, and Switzerland" have been illus- trated with 135 engravings by T. Roscoe. " Sketches of France, Italy, and Switzerland," by Prout : and " Richardson's Sketches on the Continent," com- prising France, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Hol- land, &c. " Switzerland," consisting of twenty-seven subjects by Barnard. The attempt of this author has been to give all the finest views which travellers delight in re- calling. " The Shores and Islands of the Mediterranean," by the Rev. G. N. Wright, with sixty-five engravings. " The Turkish Empire illustrated." Constanti- nople and the Seven Churches of Asia Minor, with ninety-five engravings. " Syria and the Holy Land," by John Came, with 120 engravings. " Rome and its surrounding Scenery," by W. B. Cooke. " Rome and its Environs, in a Series of Twenty- five Views." Robert's " Picturesque Sketches in Spain." OHver's " French Pyrenees," in twenty-six plates. Lewis's " Spanish Sketches of the Alhambra." * Mitrray's Encyclopedia of Geography. 3 vols. 8vo. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. McCulloch's Gazetteer. 2 large 8vo vols. Harper & Brothers New York. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING, 45 "A Series of Sketches in Turkey, Syria, and Egypt," by Sir David Wiikie. "Views of Palestine, Syria, Egypt, and Arabia," by David Roberts. Hay's "Illustrations of Cairo." " Sketches on the Danube," by G. Hering. " Sketches of China and the Chinese," by A. Borget. "views in India, China, and the Shores of the Red Sea." Drawn by Prout, Stanfield, and others. " China, in a Series of Views," in monthly parts ; very copious, accurate, and beautifully executed. "Himalaya Mountains," illustrated by Turner, Stanfield, and others. "British Forces in Affghanistan," by Dr. James Atkinson, Surgeon of the Army on the Indus. " American Scenery," by W. H. Bartlett. A large proportion of the above works I have had the pleasure of looking over. With many I have had the advantage of taking the opinion of friends familiar with the subjects of the respective sketches, and can strongly recommend young persons to avail themselves of all the illustrated works they can pro- cure, as the most fertile source not only of rational amusement but of serious instruction. With the pro- ductions of the pencil, as with those of the pen, me- thodical application and careful comparison of things of the same class are essential to real improvement. By carelessly turning over prints to please the eye, without any effort of the mind, we cannot reasonably hope to receive distinct or lasting impressions. Views of foreign lands and famous cities will serve to fill up many a blank in an inquiring mind, but, as I before said of the qualifications of a traveller, we must have a little knowledge when we begin, if we would retain any when we end. "Nil sme labore" is true even of looking at pic- tures. Unless we read and reflect on ihe scenes we contemplate, and are contented to look only at a few at one time, we shall soon perceive that we have be- come more confused than informed, and parts of Italy, Spain, and Turkey will insensibly blend in the same picture. PHILOSOPHY, MORAL, POLITICAL, MEN- TAL—LOGIC—METAPHYSICS. Philosophy, my young friends, may seem to you a very hard term, and you may feel disposed to pass by this chapter as wholly unsuited to your taste or talents ; but if you will pay attention for a few mi- nutes, it may appear that to think and reflect, not only on what you see, but on what you feel and are con- scious of as part of your own nature — in other words, to think about your own thoughts and emotions, (just 83 you think about your words and actions,) and to examine curiously any thing which seems remarkable in such thoughts and emotions or feelings, — you may find, I say, that this kind of exercise is not too severe for your mind when you read, as you should read, a little at a time. And should you be induced to try, believe me, the course of reading I have to propose, or indeed any one volume or subject, can hardly fail to produce a very sensible effect upon your mind. For, let me ask, do you not remember some one of ■your acquaintance who is remarkable for giving a very favourable impression of his good sense and un- derstanding to any person with whom he happens to converse, although only for a few minutes, and that too upon some topic that gives scope neither for ge- neral reading nor deep learning ? Now this mysterious influence, this weight of cha- racter, depends (as far as mind is concerned) chiefly on the exact truth of our thoughts and of our words. "The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth," should be the rule, not only of our legal evi- dence, but of the most casual of our daily remarks ; and I believe that the degree of a man's conformity to this rule is the measure, mentally as well as mo- rally, of his influence upon society. Indeed, the world often pays homage to this truth- fulness of thought and expression without knowing what they reverence. A certain plain and simple way of speaking, so generally admired, is nothing else but the language natural to those, and those only, who discern the exact truth of every question, — mean what they say, and say what they mean. Rug- ged sentences of outlandish words of many syllables, flowers and figures of speech, never please, though many think it creditable to admire them. This style is the reverse of the simple and the truthful, and is only natural to one who is more full of himself than of his subject. To seek truth for truth's sake has therefore been the laudable object of those called philosophers, or lovers of wisdom, both in ancient and modern times. And if my youthful readers will follow the course of reading I have to propose, they can hardly fail to im- prove both in their own estimation and in that of their friends. To paint the surface of the human figure we must know anatomy, otherwise there will be a want of ease and true expression. So, also, to speak correctly on our thoughts and feelings, which directly or indirectly enter into almost every conversation, we must know the real nature of our feelings, or. Mora) Philosophy, and the laws of thought, or, Mental Philosophy. On Moral Philosophy the most easy, plain, and intelligible work is that by Paley,' which for vigour, freshness, ease, and perspicuity of style, as well as for aptness of illustration, is unrivalled ; but many of its principles and definitions savour so much of casuistry that it is generally believed that Paley would have been incapable of writing so loosely at a later period of his hfe. This, indeed, is the remark of Professor Sedgewick, whose admirable lectures I should strong- ly recommend to be read in connection with Paley's "Moral Philosophy." The moral essays of Johnson's " Rambler"^ and Addison's " Spectator"' should next be selected ; and then such of Bacon's Essays as appear from their title to relate to this subject. Next, Combe's " Moral Philosophy," in which is considered the duties of man in his individual, social, and domestic capacities. Chalmers's "Bridgewater Treatise"^ contains most ingenious illustrations, and is on the whole well cal- culated to give information in an amusing way. The style unfortunately is turgid, and contains many words "not found in Johnson." Chalmers's object was to prove how admirably our hearts and minds are suited to the sphere in which we live. So far I have only mentioned works nearly the whole of which a reader of ordinary intelligence and application might study. I do not presume that many will read all the vo- lumes here recommended. Each may make choice of the chapters which are simple and entertaining enough to rivet his attention. The following list is for those who have a more decided preference for philosophical works : — Mackintosh's "Dissertations on the Study of Ethi- cal Philosophy. "5 This is an admirable comprehen- sive work, well suited as a guide to subsequent read- ing. For the same purpose some recommend Hampden's "Lectures on the Study of Moral Phi- losophy." These two works lay down the road and the sources of information on moral science. Sir James's work is universally admired. Tenneman's " Manual of the History of Philoso- phy," and ' Paley's Works, 1 vol. 8vo. J. Woodward, Philadelphia. 2 Johnson's Works, 2 vols. 8vo. A. V. Blake, New York. ' Addison's Works, 3 vols. Harper & Brothers. ^ Chalmers's Bridgewater Treatise. The Bridgewater Treatises, complete in 7 large 8vo voU., published by Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. 5 Mackintosh's Ethical Philosophy, 1 vol. Svo. Lea & Blanchard. 46 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. Ritter's "History of Ancient Philosophy," are much read at Oxford. A German gentleman of considerable reading as- sured me that the views of Tenneman were strangely misrepresented in the English translation. Beattie's " Principles of Moral Science"' have at- tained much celebrity, but less than " The Philosophy of the Moral FeehDgs,"^ by Abercrombie. Those, however, who would go to the fountain, should read "Bishop Butler's Sermons:" this work is much read at Oxford, and forms a subject of examination for the highest honours. Dr. Chalmers and Sir James Mackintosh are both reputed to have said that nearly all they knew of moral philosophy they owed to But- ler. The late Dr. Arnold also recommended it as one of the few works which we should never cease reading. An observation of this kmd induced me, about ten years since, to study Butler till I was fami- liar with every page ; and I can truly say, that the greater part of every book on moral philosophy which has fallen in my way appeared as trite as a thrice-told tale, and a mere development of Butler's thoughts and paraphrase of his words. The reasoning of But- ler, I must confess, is too abstruse for the minds of many. But, in the present day, few persons, really desirous of improvement, can be at a loss for occa- sional assistance from men of sound education. I knew an instance of a young lady who read the ser- mons with her brother, that she might receive an ex- planation of every difficulty. Mrs. Somerville^ truly remarks, as an encouragement of her country-women to study science, that the degree of inteUigence re- quired to follow a theory is not to be measured by the genius originally required for its discovery : so, dissertations most perplexing of themselves may be very easy when we have a friend to put one argument in a different form, and another in different words. If any of my readers has a fi-iend to take so kind a part, let them remember, that many persons of sound judgment have declared, that if there were one book of human composition which they felt more thankful to have read than another, it was Butler's Sermons. Such are the merits of this work in re- spect of moral science : its value will still further be explained when we speak of Theology. After Butler, or instead of it, many recommend Sewall's " Christian Morals."'' Abercrombie's " Philosophy of the Moral Feel- ings" is a work of deserved celebrity. It is written in a clear and elegant style ; brief, yet comprehensive, and suited to those who have only leisure to read a httle. Beattie's "Elements of Moral Science," and Long's " Essay on the Moral Nature of Man," are also much recommended. The former has passed through three editions. John Foster's " Essays on Decision of Character"^ are admirable, and of the greatest interest to the class of readers now addressed ; as also is Taylor's " Natural History of Society"^ in a bar- barous and civilized state ; in which are considered the origin and progress of human improvement. Dr. Hampden's Article in the Encyclopaedia Bri- tannica on Aristotle's Philosophy will convey much well-digested information on ancient ethics. This, as well as Harris's Treatises on "Art" and " Hap- •piness," is very generally read by Oxford classmen. To those who study Aristotle's Ethics, I speak ad- visedly, with much experience, and on high authority. ' Beattie's Moral Science, 1 vol. Philadelphia. 2 Philosophy of Moral Feelings, by Abercrom- bie. Harper & Brothers. 3 Mrs. Somerville's Physical Sciences, 1 vol. E. C. Biddle. 4 Sewall's Christian Morals, 1 vol. Herman Hooker. 5 Foster's Essays, 1 vol. 12mo. Appleton & Co. 6 Taylor's Natural History of Society, 2 vols, 12mo. Appleton & Co. when I say, that if they would select from the books here recommended all the chapters which treat on the same subjects as the several books of the Ethics, and if they would also accustom themselves to write Ethi- cal Essays, — really Ethical, not Aristotelian, — they would have a better chance of University distinction, and, which is of far more value, they would have the benefit of that mental exercise and those hterary qualifications which Oxford honours should, but do not always, imply. We will next consider the study of Political Philosophy. — Our duties as citizens form one part of Paley's " Moral and Political Phi- losophy" above mentioned. Bishop Butler's Sermon before the House of Lords on the 30th of January, 1740, contains very wholesome instruction, as also does Burke's "French Revolution," albeit Fox said he disUked it as much as any writing by Tom Paine. On political economy, the most easy and instruct- ive reading for young persons is found in the Tales by Miss Martineau. I knew a young lady who read the whole series with the greatest avidity, although she was not generally fond of study. The object of this authoress was to select the leading principles of Adam Smith's " Wealth of Nations,"' and show their opera- tion in a village or other community, pleasantly and ingeniously represented, so as to show cause and effect, or the beginning and end of each impolitic system. For men of reflection, Adam Smith's work must be the grammar and groundwork of political econo- my. Miss Martineau has, like all other persons, male and female, who have the boldness to "go ahead," been ridiculed ; but few persons are at once so deep and clear that they need disdain her assist- ance. Read also " The Economy of Machinery and Manufactures, "8 by C. Babbage ; " The Cotton Manufacture of Great Britain,"^ by A. Ure ; " The Corn Laws, as affecting all Classes of the Community," by James Wilson; " Essay on the External Corn 'Trade," by Torrens. A work on the same subject, by P. Thompson, as well as "Essays on Free Trade and Protection," in the Edinburgh and Quarterly, will show all that can be said on these engrossing subjects. On " Colonization and the Colonies," read lectures by Herman Merivale ; also, " Colonization, particularly in S. Austraha," by Sir C. Napier; and Cornewall Lewis's "Essay on the Government of Dependencies." On " Banks and Bankers," read a work, with re- view of failures, &c., by D. Hardcastle, jun,, and The works of J. W. Gilbart, General Manager of the London and Westminster Bank, consisting of " The History and Principles of Banking," " The History of Banking in America," " A Practical Treatise on Banking," and " The History of Banking in Ireland, and the Phi- losophy of Joint Stock Banking, by G. M. Bell. " The Currency Question, an Examination of Evi- dence in Committee in 1840," and " Country Banks and the Currency, from Evidence in Committee in 1841," by the same. Read also the Life of Horner, in Brougham's " Statesmen," and Papers in the Edinburgh Review therein recommended, written in 1802-3-4. On " Population," read Malthus, and the Reviews upon his Essay ; also, " Political Economy," by the same ; " Whateley's Introductory Lectures;" " M'CuUoch's Principles ;" Jones's " Essay on the Distribution of Wealth;" 'Smith's "Wealth of Nations," 1vol. 8vo, London, Tegg. 8 The Economy of Machinery, 1 vol. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. 9 Cotton Manufacture of Great Britain, 2 vols. London, A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 47 Ramsay's work on the same subject, with " Principles of Population," by A. Alison, are the principal remaining works of note ; Mr. Ricardo's work was much quoted some years since. The Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge has published " Political Philosophy, comprehending Principles of Government, Monarchical Government, Eastern Monarchies, and European Monarchies."' The rise, progress, and practical influence of politi- cal theories, and the rise and growth of the conti- nental interests of Great Britain, form the subject of a very popular work by Heeren, professor of history at Gottingen. Lord Brougham, during this last month, has pub- lished his opinions on political economy. Besides, or instead of any or all of these, the arti- cles on taxation, rent, or any other part of political economy, may be studied in the Cyclopaedias. I have only to add, that most people are apt to consider this subject, indispensable as it is for understanding the news of the day, as involved in deep mystery, into which none but a chosen few can hope to become initiated. If there is one subject more than another on which it is desirable that all men should be in- formed, and on which almost all are most deplorably ignorant, it is political economy. Many of the works above mentioned are suited to the most ordinary ca- pacity from beginning to end ; nor is there one of which most young ladies might not improve by the study of many portions. Young ladies reading politi- cal economy indeed ! some will exclaim ; and were there not some so silly as to laugh in the wrong place, this and many other books would be wholly unneces- sary. It is not many years since, if indeed there are not some circles now, in which reading of any kind was held ridiculous in women : but happily the opinion that ladies were designed " to suckle fools and chro- nicle small beer" is less prevalent. We will next consider the writers on Mental Philosophy and Metaphysics. — Aber- crombie's work on the Intellectual Powers and the Investigation of Truth is the best for those who can only read one book. Another work much more in- teresting to the general reader is Combe's" Constitution of Man"^ considered in re- lation to external objects ; at the same time I should recommend one of Combe's works on" Phrenology," and his " Lectures on Popular Education." Whether the reader believes in Phrenology more, less, or not at all, the works of Combe and Gall are deeply in- teresting from the facts they contain. The Phreno- logists, and Physiologists generally, write in a very lucid and pleasing style. Indeed, most persons must have observed that there is no class of men with whom it is so easy to converse, who keep more to the point, are more properly to be called clear-headed, than those included under the name of Medical men. Gall's work displays great learning, and is valuable to every one who would know the history of human nature. To be altogether ignorant of Phrenology, in the present day, is to be rather deficient in common information. It is now too late to laugh at the science, however much ridicule may attach to the ignorance of many who pretend to practise it. Locke's work " On the Conduct of the Under- standing"3 is brief, and easily intelligible. This, as well as many parts of "Watts on the Mind," is well suited to young persons. Those who would dip more deeply into Metaphysics should read Harris's " Philosophical Arrangements," and Reid's "Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man," to which is annexed an analysis of Aristotle's Logic — these two works will give a general know- ' Principles of Political Economy, By H. C. Carey, 3 vols. 8vo. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. 2 Combe on Constitution of Man, 1 vol. Ticknor & Co., Boston. 3 Locke on the Understanding, 1 vol, Kay & Brother, Philadelphia. I ledge of ancient Metaphysics ; — then " Bacon's No- vum Organum ;"■* Locke " On the Human Understanding," and the works of Thomas Brown^' and Dugald Stewart.* But it is not my purpose to anenii)t to lay down a plan for readers capable of protbuiul investigations; I would only remind them that Sir J. Mackintosh's papers in the "Encyclopaedia Briianiiica," now col- lected in one large volume, give the character of every philosophical writer, and a criticism oil his work. This book may be considered a valuable introduction to metaphysical studies. " The Natural History of Enthusiasm"' is a very clever Essay, which has gained great celebrity to its author. He has also written, among other works, " Fanaticism,"'' and " Physical Theory of another Life." The same author has written an Introductory Es- say to "An Enquiry into the modern prevailing Notions respecting the Freedom of Will, which is supposed to be essential to Moral Agency, Virtue and Vice, Reward and Punishment, Praise and Blame, by Jo- nathan Edwards, "s This is a very important subject on which to form a sound opinion. Hume's Essays^ are very celebrated, though the skeptical character of the author must not be forgotten. They treat of matters, moral, political, and literary; the human understanding, the passions, principles of morals, and the natural history of religion. Many works on Insanity are very interesting to the general reader^such as those by Munro., Mayo, and Willis. Of course, it is not intended that the prac- tice of phrenology or of medicine forms part of the qualifications of any but professional men ; still the facts on which the theories of every class of Physio- logists are founded are so deeply interesting and ge- nerally useful, that they are supposed to be to some extent familiar to all persons of good education. In parts of Beck's "Medical .lurisprudcnce"'" you will find the tests of insanity, the kind of insanity by which persons are legally irresponsible, as well as many in- teresting cases, in which medical science has pro- moted the ends of justice. Also, Smith's " Forensic Medicine ;" Winslow's "Plea of Insanity in CriminalCases;" and Dr. Pritchard's " Different Forms of Insanity, in reference to Criminal Cases,"" contain many inte- resting passages. Works of this- kind, the unprofes- sional will read like a newspaper, as they happen to have leisure and curiosity. In opening books of this, and, indeed, of every other kind, we should consider that we dip into them with our minds as we would into a jar of filings with a magnet ; more or less will adhere and be gathered together in proportion as the instrument has been previously charged. During the season of early education and discipline the mind must be forced and tasked ; but when we read no longer to form, but to fill the mind, we should be ad- vised only so far as this : to open a certain set of books and examine their contents, resolving to close 1 Bacon's Novum Organum. Translated in Montagu's edition of Bacon's works, published by Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. 5 Brown's Philosophy, 2 vols. 8vo. Glazier &. Co., Hallowell. 6 Dugald Stewart's Complete Works, 7 vols. 8vo. J. Munroe & Co., Boston. 7 The Natural History of Enthusiasm, Fana- ticism, and Physical Theory of Another Life, 3 vols. D. Appleton & Co., New York. 8 Jonathan Edwards's Works, complete in 4 vols. Svo. Leavitt, Trow & Co., New York. 8 Hume's Essays, 2 vols. Svo. London. '0 Beck's Medical Jurisprudence, 2 vols. 8vo. Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co., Philadelphia. Taylor's Medical Jurisprudence, I vol. Lea & Blanchard, Philadelphia. " Pritchard on Insanity, 1 vol. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. 48 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. them when curiosity fails. And here we mny also J speak, of a line of reading very generally useiul, or Popular Works on Medicine. — " Combe on the Constitution of Man" is very generally read by per- sons of all ages. Of late so many men of eminence i have been itnpressed v.iih a conviction that health and hfe are daily and hoinly thrown away through igno- rance of the most simple princijiles of health, air, exercise, food, and general habits, that many works have been written not onh' for the doctors but for the patients. Grimshawe's " Letters i'rom a Surgeon to a Clergyman" were written expressly ibr the guid- ance oi per.sons \\lio, as is common with clergymen, are called upon to decide whether certain symptoms demand medical aid, and wha;t is the best thing fo be done in cases of poisoning, accidents, croup, (fcc, before the apothecary arrives. In my own experience, one life was saved by a lady having the sense to get a warm bath ready in case it should be prescribed when a child had the croup, and another case in vi hich a fine fellow in the prime of life was killed by some one being so ignorant as to give him a plaie of roast meat when he seemed recovering from an attack of inflanmiation. Thomson's "Domestic Management of the Sick Room, teaching how to assist not supersede the Me- dical Man." Recce's "Medical Guide, for Clergy, Heads of Families, &c." Macaulay's " Popular Dictionary of Medicine." " Curtis on Health." Dr. Paris's " Treatise on Diet." Any one of these will be found useful. Read par- ticularly an article in the " Quarterly," No. CXXX. on Dr. Holland's medical treatment, and the case of St. Martin in America, in whom, from an open wound in the stomach, the process of digestion had betn watched, and many hundreds of observations made on the digestibility of food and the influence of various habits both of the mind and body.' On Grammar, Lo&ic, and Rhetoric, the following will suffice. The most useful English grammar I have ever seen is that by the celebrated William Cobbett.- He treats particularly of the points on which persons are most commonly deficient. There is also a grammar well worth perusing at the begin- ning of Maunder's " Treasury of Knowledge."^ As works of a deeper and more philosophical character, Harris's "Hermes," and Home Tooke's "Diver- sions of Purley,"'' are known to most good English scholars. The "Edinburgh" and " Quarterly" also contain several instructive essays, which may be found by the index of each. Dr. Crombie's "Etymology and Syntax of the English language" is also in high repute. On Logic, read Whateley's " Elements, "^ and a Treatise by Dr. Moberly, and " Edinburgh Review," No. 115. The Oxford student should make Aldrich his text book, and use the treatises of Huyshe, Mo- berly, Hill, Questions on Logic and Answers to the Questions to explain Aldrich. Also Hampden's ar- ticle on the Rhetoric of Aristotle, Woolley's " Lo- gic," and select chapters of Aristotle's " Organon." Mr. Newman's "Lectures on Logic," delivered at Bristol, are much admired. OnRhetoric, read Whateley's "Elements, "= Camp- bell's " Plrilosophy of Rhetoric, "^ and translations of Cicero, Quintilian, and Aristotle's "Rhetoric;" also, Hampden's article upon it before mentioned. Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric are three subjects i' ' Beaumont's Experiments, 1 vol. 8vo. $1.50. 2 Cobbett's Grammar, 1 vol. J. Doyle, New York. 3 Maunder's Treasury of Knowledge, 1 vol. New York. * Tooke's Diversions of Purley, 1 vol. Agnew, Philadelphia. ;■ 5 Whateley's Logic, and Rhetoric J, Munroe ",; & Co., Boston. i ! 6 Campbell's Philosophy of Rhetoric, 1 vol. ' Harper & Brothers New York. on which those only who are naturally fond of science should study deeply; still no one can be considered soundly educated who has not read and reflected on one treatise upon each subject. Lastli/. The best general History of Ancient Phi- losophy, Moral, and Metaphysical, is that by Ritter, in 3 vols., translated froin the German by Mr. Mor- rison of Trin. Coll. Camb. ON THE FINE ARTS. Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture are three subjects on which nearly all persons of poliie educa- tion, professional or unprofessional, feel compelled to conceal ignorance if they cannot display knowledge. It is not my purpose to minister to the vanity of those who pick up the names of a few ancient masters or galleries, and aflcct to be connoisseurs: but two or three simple directions for attaining the elements of criticism and a general history of art may be profit- able in various ways. It will save us from that shame and confusion which we should otherwise feel when the fine arts form the subject of conversation ; it will enable us to understand the elegant illustrations which authors commonly derive from the arts ; it will qualify us to profit by the conversation of men of taste, giving a nucleus for gathering a new kind of matter, drawing forth a new power ot the mind, and opening to us a never-failing source of the purest pleasure and refinement. I trust I may encourage my young friends with the assurance that, great as is the advantage of cultivating a taste and acquiring knowledge of the fine arts, this to many minds is a work of very little time or toil. It consists more in observation than in reading, and in opening our eyes and ears with eager curiosity on occasions in which they are very frequently closed or turned away. Indeed, so prevalent is the opinion that to judge of any picture, statue, or piece of archi- tecture requires some innate qualities with which only a chosen few are endowed, that many persons pos- sessing not less judgment, but more honesty, than their neighbours, confess that for them to visit works of art is mere waste of time, that they know what is pleasing to themselves, but cannot venture an opinion, being aware that such things are not within the sphere of their understanding. The large class of readers who will see themselves in this representation may be assured that they have formed a very unfair esti- mate of their own capacities; and that with a little attention to the following directions they may be bet- ter qualified to give an opinion of works of art than many of the most confident connoisseurs of their ac- quaintance. We will begin with Painting. First. Request some intelligent friend who is fond of drawing and examining pictures, to accompany you to some extensive collection, and improve the oppor- tunity according to the suggestions of the following anecdote : — A youth of my acquaintance, who had been more than once in the National Gallery without seeing the peculiar merit of any of the pictures, chanced to visit them in company with a professional painter of correct judgment and good common sense. He observed on entering that he knew nothingofthe value of paintings, and would gladly receive a little general instruction. The painter told him to look on each picture atten- tively, compare it with what he knew of nature, and say honestly, not what others thought, or what he had heard or read, but simply what impression it produced on his own mind. The opinions so elicited proved nearly all to savour of truth. In some in- stances, the artist told him to consider if he was con- versant with nature under the pecuhar forms repre- sented, and whether he knew how much lay within the sphere of art ; at the same time observing that these two points would require a comparison of paint- ings, first with nature, and then with each other. With such hints and cautions was this youth restricted to judging on such points only as were within the range of ordinary judgment. If he felt encouraged A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 49 by the frequent corroboration of his own opinions by thoae of the artist, he was yet more prompted to the full use of his facuhies and open expression of his septiments, by the repeated assurance that nature had made nearly all persons judges to a certain ex- tent, and that, if any were disqualified to give an opi- nion of her imitators, they were generally to be found among a certain set of pretending connoisseurs whose vanity had led them so long to appropriate the sense and opinions of others that they had lost the free use of their own. On that day my friend discovered how much he knew about paintings, and the precise points in which he was deficient ; namely, that he wanted a more intimate and extensive acquaintance with na- ture, a knowledge of the limits of art, and correct standard of excellence in each kind of painting, as also the leading principles of perspective and composi- tion. These are the chief points in which most com- mon observers are deficient. SecoTidly. Accustom yourselves to observe land- scapes, figures, &c. in nature, and compare them with paintings of similar subjects. To appreciate, for in- stance, the famous sea pieces by the Vanderveldes, you must observe the degree of buoyancy in ships upon the water, of distinctness in the outlines and picturesque swelling of the sails ; and so, also, with reference to other pictures, observe the clouds, the tints of evening, and the foliage at different seasons, and, indeed, all other things, which works, below mentioned, will suggest. Thirdly. Compare the works of those who have treated the same subject with difierent degrees of excellence. Do not join in decrying modern pictures, unless you can discern their peculiar points of infe- riority. Universal censure and universal praise are equally unphilosophical, and far from truth ; both must be qualified. More knowledge is required to point out beauties than defects. Things are good and bad by comparison ; we must therefore study the best specimens of each kind of pictures till they are firmly impressed upon our memory, so as to .serve as a common measure or standard of excellence by which to value all others of the same class. Fourthly. We must take every opportunity of con- versing and comparing our own opinions with those of others, or, which is the same thing, after seeing several pictures by Claude or Titian, for example, we may read some accotmt of their characters and criticism on their style. There is no want of critical discussions on the styles of the ancient masters; every picture of celebrity has been the subject of an essay. And as to the practicabihty of obtaining the advantage of conversation with those thoroughly con- versant with art, it must be observed that men are generally communicative on the subject of their fa- vourite studies. It is natural with man to take an interest in those of similar taste. Doubtless the Creator ordained this sympathy between those capa- ble of instructing each other, as a provision for the improvement of society. At all events, believe me, there is such an instinct, and a really teachable spirit can generally find a njaster. Besides, as to paintings of genius, their admirers say that every time they examine them they discover new beauties, and that ordinary observers frequently point out a touch of nature which the professed artist has overlooked. Again, it is not absolutely necessary that you should meet an artist in a picture gallery to gain much of the assistance he is able to afford. Whenever you meet a nian of taste in company, the drawing-room table will be found furnished with some book of prints taken from the works of ancient masters, which will readily furnish the occasion and the subject of a lec- ture. Young ladies, I am sure, can never be at a loss to improve such opportunities. And as to the gentle- men, especially those who have money at command, if they will only inquire for one of the many ill-paid but well-deservinjf artists, they may receive such pe- ripatetic lectures in the National or Dulwich Gallery as will be a very valuable initiation into the secret's of art. Indeed, most happy should I be, if, by this 7 casual observation, I could open a new and honour- able source of emolument to a class of men who con- duce very much to the refinement and ornaments of life, and receive very little in return. How many thousands are there in London whose fathers have earned in the East sums which they are squandering in the West (end), and to whom it would, if they only thought of it, be a pleasure to be lionized for two or three mornings by a person well qualified to inform and amuse them ! How many of that order of society who are called callous, selfish, and indiffer- ent to ail wants but their o%vn, have quite heart enough to confess that they would feel an extra relish in their own dinner, if they had earned an appetite in a way that provided a more generous meal lo one who had as much sensibihty, though less comfort than themselves. Whether my readers adopt this or any other method of improvement, they should bear in mind that their object must not be to gain mere critical knowledge, and the terms and mechanical part of the art of paint- ing. In this point of view a house painter would be nearly as good a teacher as an artist. But they should endeavour to gain a correct taste of beauty and pro- priety of expression, as well as a due appreciation of that invention and grandeur of conception which dis- tinguishes the highest specimens of art. Sir Waller Scott showed tliat he knew the spirit in which pictures- were to be studied, when he said that those of Sir David Wilkie gave him new ideas ; — that there are ideas in pictures is a fact which many persons have yet to learn. But I must trust to works which will shortly follow, to show how paintings by men of genius are to b^ read almost like a poem, and that the conceptions of a grand imagination, and select delineation of nature's beauties, are the subject-matter of painter and poet alike, though the one conveys them with the pencil and the other with the pen. I will now enumerate the books best suited to givf a general knowledge of art. Sir Joshua Reynolds'.^ " Discourses to the Students of the Royal Academy" have been lately published, illustrated by explanatory notes and plates by J Burnet, F. R. S.' Those whocannot procure this work may purchase for one shilling and nine-pence No. XXVII. of the " Student's Cabinet Library of Useful Tracts," containing a very excellent selection of thosi discourses. Sir Joshua, it must be observed, was a very accomplished scholar. Before Edmund Burke published his " Letters on the French Revolution," he submitted them to Sir Joshua's consideration. All of these discourses show a very superior mind, and are valuable to students of every kind of art and literature. I have scarcely known any questions arise concerning the limits and province of the imaginative arts'which- Ihese writings do not tend to elucidate. The following topics may serve as a specimen : — How to " snatch a grace beyond the reach of art:" — different stages of art; selecting better than copying; how to gain the materials of knowledge ; of the grand style; of beauty; general nature to be distinguished from local fashion ; the meaning of invention ; e.xact copying of nature, not properly to be called natural ; genius begins where art ends; meaning of taste ; standard of taste ; the style and characteristics of each school and ancient master, &c. At the same time that we read Sir Joshua's dis- courses, and all other lectures or essays on art, Pil- kington's " Lives of the Painters" will be a useful hand-book.- Of this there is a good abstract, in one small volume, by Dr. Shepard, who selected and abridged 100 out of 1400 of the lives written by Pil- kington. This is quite comprehensive enough for general purposes. I would recommend the student to procure an interleaved copy, and take it with him as a ' Reynolds's Discotjrses. 1 vol. 4to. Carpenter, London. ^ Pilkington's Lives of the Painters. A new edition, by Allan Cunningham. 1 vol. 8vo. Cheap edition. T. Tegg, London. E 50 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. convenient catalogue and critique when he visits col- [ lections of paintings. For, suppose he sees some paintings by Claude or Titian, by turning to their re- spective biographies he will have his attention directed to the pecu!i;ir characteristics of ilie style of each, lie will feel aa interest in making a memorandum, as that such a latid.>^capc is in such a gallery, or that such a picture more or less e.xemphtics any critical remark. While reading or looking over a catalogue of an ex- hibition which he has not yet visited, he can write down the place where any celebrated picture may be seen on some future occasion. It may be useful here to enumerate the several schools of painting. These are, — The Roman school, comprehending Raphael, Che- rubino Alberti, Giovanni Alberti, Caravaggio, Gauli, Michael Angelo, Campidoglio, Carlo Maratti, Andrea Sacchi : The Venetian school, in which are, Titian, Annibal Caracci, Tintoretto, Paolo Veronese, Ludovico Ca- racci, Giacomo Bassano, Francesco Bassano, Fran- cisco Bolognese : The P'lorentine school, with Michael Angelo Buo- narotii, Andrea del Sarto. Leonardo da Vinci: The Bologna school, with Guido, Albano, Dome- nichino, Guercino, Lanfranc, Correggio: The Flemish and Dutch, of which are Rubens, Vandyck, Renibrant, Teniers, Godfrey Kneller, Wouvermans, Vanderveldt, Albert Durer, Hans Hol- bein, Sir Peter Lely. The French school, with Poussin, Le Brun, Perrier, Fresnoy, Claude ; The Spanish school, of which are Murillo, Ximenes, Velasquez, Gallego: and others in each school, tob many to mention. Of the English school, the most remarkable are the following, noticed in Allan Cunningham's "British Painters :"' — Jameson, the Scotch Vandyck ; Verrio, La Guerre, and Thornhill, architectural painters ; Hogarth, Wilson, Reynolds, Gainsborough, Ramsay, (Scotch), Romney, Runcinian (Scotch), Copley, Mor- limer, Raeburn (Scotch), Hoppner, Owen, Harlow, Bonington, Cosway, Allan, Northcote, Sir T. Law- rence, Sir H. Beaumont, who aided in forming the National Gallery, Liverseege, Burnet, Fuseli, West, Bird, Barry, Blake, Opie, Morland. Of the painters of later days, Mr. Bulwer, in his "England and the English," enumerates in historical painting, Haydon, Hilton, Westall, Etty, Martin ; in portrait painting, Owen, Jackson, Pickersgill, Philips; in fancy painting, Wilkie, Maclise, Parris, Howard, Chnt, Webster, Newton ; in landscape painting. Turner, Stanfield, Fielding, Callcott, J. Wilson, Har- ding, Stanley, besides Landscer, Roberts, Prout, McICensie, Lance, Derby, Cooper, Hancock, Davis. Dr. Shepard gives the following list of books which he considered necessary to be consulted, in order to become a judge of painting : — Vasari's "Lives;" Sandrart's "Lives of Paint- ers;" Du Piles's ditto; Lord Orford's, 4 vols.; " Vertue's Life ;" " Gilpin on Prints ;" Dallaway's "Anecdotes;" Cochin's "Travels throu»h Italy," 3 vols. French ; " Richardson on Painting ;" Raphael Mengs's "Works," 2 vols.; Winckelman's "Works." Forty years ago these were probably the best works, but all that is valuable in them has doubtless been adopted by later authors. The three following works in the same list are still popular : — Sir J. Reynolds's "Lectures," above mentioned; Cumberland's " Lives : of Spanish Painters," and Fuseli's " Three Lec- • tures;" a copy of the last is pubhshed in the " Life • of Fuseli." I have before said that a continual comparison of pictures with nature and with each other is the chief source of knowledge ; still some books will quicken our observation both of nature and of art ; of these the best, next to the Discourses of Sir Joshua, are — " Criticisms on Art," and " Sketches of the Pic- 1 Allan Cunningham's Lives of the English Painters. 3 vols. Harpers' Family Library. ture Galleries of England," by Wm. Hazhtt. This contains catalogues of the principal galleries. Mrs. Jameson's "Handbook to Public Galleries of Art," in or near London. "Art and Arlisls in England, being Descriptions of the Public and Private Collections of Works of Art," by Dr. Waagen of Berlin. " Handbook of Painting : Italy." Translated from the German of Kugler, by C. L. Eastlake, R. A. " Paintinsr and Fine Arts," by R. B. Haydon and W. Hazhtt." "Synopsis of Practical Perspective, Linear and Aerial," exemplified by 19 Plates. " Book of the Cartoons," by the Rev. R. Catter- mole. " The Dresden Gallery," consisting of drawings on stone from the finest originals in this collection. This is an expensive work, consisting of 120 pictures, price, when complete, about 40?. Still separate num- bers of this work are not uncommonly accessible. "Selection of Figures from Pictures in England," by Claude, Watteau, and Canaletto ; combining Ara- besques and other embellishments, with figures and groups, from celebrated works by these masters. " Presenting a great number of subjects capable by their variety and interest of affording a large fund of amusement and instruction both in the drawing-room and study of the amateur." Similar use may be madcof many prints in the " Pictorial Bible," Fisher's " Illustrations of the Bible from the Old Masters," with 60 Plates; and " Mant's Bible." I remember seeing a young person quite surprised at the extent to which she was able to discriminate the styles of dif- ferent masters, after turning over a set of these illus- trations. Merimee, " Art of Painting in Oil and Fresco," describes all the methods and materials used by the great continental schools of painting during the best period of the art. It has been translated by W. B. S. Taylor, who has added an historical sketch of the English school of painting. " Museum of Fainting and Sculpture," being a collection of engravings from the principal pictures, statues, and bas-reliets in the galleries of Europe, with 1200 plates ! Price six guineas. The works of Hogarth, with explanations of each plate, have been published in the " Penny Maga- zine," but more completely in fifty-two numbers by John Nicholls, F. S. A. Of all the paintings in the National Gallery, those of Hogarth are examined by the greatest numlser of persons. This observation was confirmed by one of the attendants. Allan Cunningham's "British Painters," in the " Family Library," is a book of much general infor- mation. The same author has written a " Life of Sir David Wilkie." Much may also be derived from the "Life of Titian;" "Life of Sir Thomas Law- rence;" " Life of Fuseli." We will next consider The Art of Sculpture, though comparatively lit- tle remains to be said. By cultivating a taste for the highest order of painting, which is characterized not by meretricious ornament but grandeur of conception and simplicity of execution, we shall not be at a loss to judge of sculpture. The history of sculpture is very fully given in the " Penny Cyclopaedia." You will there find an enu- meration of all traces of the art found in Scripture. The extent to which it flourished among the Hebrews, Babylonians, and Phoenicians, being little known, is the subject of only a few pages : but the style of sculpture at different periods among the Persians, Egyptians, Etrurians, Greeks, and Romans, admits of being illustrated with reference to existing remains. Of each of these schools, therefore, we have a suc- cinct account. The history of Greek sculpture is written with peculiar care, and in the space of a few double-columned pages the reader may have a clear general view, sufficient, indeed, to give an increased interest in the collection of the British Museum, as well as in drawings of these and many other admired A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 51 works not so easily accessible. Tlie revival of the art in Italy is usually ascribed to the tenth or. eleventh century, though Flaxman traces it from the age of Constantine. FuseU remarks that the arts had never been wholly lost in Italy, because there many barba- rians had been long used to behold works of art while serving in the Ronrian armies, and were thus animated with a nobler spirit than the less disciplined invaders of other lands. Be this as it may, the history of the revival is given in the same article, nearly down to the present time. I can recommend also the articles on Bronze, Folycletus, Phidias, Fhigaleian Marbles, Elgin Marbles, Townley Marbles, Praxiteles, Benve- nuto Celleni. Allan Cunningham's " Lives of the British Sculp- tors,"' in the "Family Library," contains a good account of British art. The " Encyclopaedia Brilannica" has also an article on sculpture, with more criticism than that in the "Penny Cyclopasdia." It is illustrated by plates, which, indeed, are almost indispensable for any essay on art which is not purely historical. Many works above mentioned, especially those on painting, throw light upon the art of sculpture : this will appear even from their titles. Mrs. Gray's " Etruria," Sir G. Wilkinson's "Egyptians," and Dr. Wordsworth's " Illustrated Greece," of course supply the best pos- sible information on Etrurian, Egyptian, and Grecian art respectively. ■Reveil's " Museum of Fainting and Sculpture" gives not only the paintings, but the statues and bas- reliefs in the public and private collections of Europe. "Description of the Ancient Marbles in the British Museum, with Engravings," will teach the principles of criticism. , " The Monumental Remains of Noble and Emi- nent Persons" comprises the sepulchral antiquities of Great Britain. Flaxman's " Lectures and Illustrations of Hesiod, Homer. jEschylus, and Dante," are beyond all praise. " The Life of Flaxman," and of every other sculp- tor, will convey much general information. I have only to !#d, that the British Museum, Westminster Abbey (of which a history has been written by Smith, Flaxman, and others), and almost every cathedral, will not fail to improve a visitor who carefully exa- mines and compares every piece of sculpture, and takes the earliest opportunity on his return home to correct his own observations by conversing with men of taste, or by reading critical essays on the respective artists. Lastly, on Akchitecture. The same remarks as to method, prints, illustrated works, general observa- tion, conversing with men of taste, will of course apply to this subject. To begin with a general view, take the article on Architecture, contained in a few pages of Chambers's '•Information for the People," price only three-half- pence. In this we have an outline, and by means of Its many simple woodcuts may learn to distinguish the several orders and styles. Study this paper till you have a clear and comprehensive knowledge of its con- tents ; and from that moment you will be much more competent to speak of architecture than most of your neighbours ; so rare is it to find persons conversant with the shortest treatise, even of an easy and in- teresting subject. Secondly, take Barr's " Anglican Church Archi- tecture," which contains also interesting details of ecclesiastical furniture: Bloxam's "Gothic Archi- tecture" is also very clearly written: both of these works have numerous engravings. As a companion or dictionary for constant reference. " The Glossary of Architecture"^ is admirable : this contains explanations of the terms used in Grecian, Roman, Italian, and Gothic architecture, with 700 woodcuts : 400 additional examples to the same work ' Allajt Cunningham's Lives of the British Sculptors, 3 vols. Harpers' Family Library. 2 Glossary of Architecture, 1 vol. 8vo. D. Bogue, London. have lately been published separately. For further information read the paper on " Gaily Knight's Ar- chitectural Tour," No. CXXXIX. of the "Edin- burgh Review ; and others which may be found both in that and the " Quarterly." Also, the Cyclopae- dias, under the terms Architecture, Arch, Architrave, Ionian, Corinthian, Paestum, and under the name of any famous building, temple, &c. Read also, in No. XIX. of the " Family Library," the lives of William of Wykeham, Inigo Jones, Sir Christopher Wren, Sir J. Vanbrugh, James Gibbs, William Kent, and Sir W. Chambers, who, I am happy to observe, as an encouragement to young men of fortune to avail themselves of all the opportunities which wealth commands, was employed by George III., when heir apparent, as a tutor in architecture. When the student of the Fine Arts has fully availed himself of all these hints, he may be safely trusted to run alone. THE WAY TO STUDY THE SCRIPTURES. If my readers have not "an understanding heart," they stand in need of spiritual assistance, and must seek it where alone it is to be found, before they can ever be quahfied to " read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest" the Holy Scriptures. For they are, as says the Apostle, spiritually discerned. None but those of poetical taste can appreciate the poetry of Scrip- ture : none but those of musical taste can appreciate the flow of its most harmonious periods, though aided by all the powers of music. The poet has a natural sympathy for the one, and the musician for the other. Can the sluggard and the drunkard enter into your meaning when you speak of the pleasures of the tem- perate man as he goes forth to hear the carol of the lark and breathe the fresh incense of the morning ? Can the young appreciate the sober cautions and chastened judgment of age ? Can the old enter into the buoyant hopes and bright visions of youth ? If not, what do these instances prove ? One lesson is taught by each ; namely, that our enjoyment or ap- preciation of every pleasure depends on a certain dis- cernment, habit, or other qualification in ourselves, and therefore the mind best adapted to judge of one may be no kind of measure of another. May we not, then, suppose that spiritual things also require a peculiar discernment, habit, or other quali- fication ? For spiritual things are of the nature of deep counsel and eternal truth, which require the humble and teachable disposition of age : secondly, they savour of all that is pure, simple, and, in the best sense, natural, so require the wholesome taste of chastened temperance : thirdly, they are of the na- ture of what is most lovely, noble, exalted and divine ; they require a spirit of holiness, fervent piety and thoughts, above mere things of earth. It appears, then, that under the name of Spiritual are included several orders of things of which each is allowed to require a peculiar taste or other quahfication, taken separately : miich more, then, shall a peculiar qualification be re- quired for enjoying, improving by, or entering into the spirit of the same things taken collectively. Spi- ritual things, therefore, can only be understood in a peculiar way ; they are not intellectually discerned ; but, as says the Apostle, they are "spiritually dis- cerned;" that is, they are discerned, understood, and appreciated only by those to whom there has been given a heart in sympathy, in unison, and in harmony with them. However, the advice I proposed to give concerns the mind. I must therefore presume that my readers have to some e.xtent the necessary qualification for studying the holy writings, and proceed to lay down a plan for improving by what the Scriptures address both to the mind and to the soul >vithout further cau- tion or comment. Let us consider the best method of studying, First, The text of Scripture — the Word. Secondly, Commentaries ; to which belong. Thirdly, Biblical antiquities — Jewish history — ver- sions of Scripture, and 52 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. Fourthly, Doctrines — Articles — the Prayer-Book. Fifthly, The principal writers on Divinity in order. Sixthly, Books for the closet. 1. THE TEXT OF SCRIPTURE. ■ Select a copy of the Bible not larger than an octavo, with as much margin as possible. The one I use has uncut edges and flexible back, a minion 8vo from the Clarendon Press, without marginal references. If you use a 4to volume, you will not so readily turn to ' parallel verses. A large Bible is best for reading aloud, but a small Bible for the study. Marginal re- ferences, every student blessed with a sound and ac- " tive mind should make for himself When you make a study of the Scriptures, read with pen in hand ; and decide on a few simple marks to affix to verses which , are most important, as supporting doctrines, proving the genuineness or authenticity of any part of Scrip- ture, or requiring further thought or illustration. These marks will enable you to refresh your recol- lection of any book of the Bible in a very short space : of time. In my Bible the letters T mark passages most suitable for the text of a sermon, or for a rule ^ of daily conduct. Q marks a difficulty, for further ' consideration or inquiry. When any new commen- tary falls in my way, I can at once test its value by 'passages of real difficulty. Again, Art. 1, 2, or 3, denotes that averse contains a very plain proof of one of the Thirty-nine Articles. Ch. denotes an argu- ment in support of an Establishment. It is advisable, every time you read a book of Scrip- ture, to propose one subject for particular attention. Read the Gospels, once to see wherein they agree I and wherein they differ, and mark M. Mk. L. J. or any one or more of these initials according as St. Mat- thew, Mark, Luke, or John have also mentioned any parable, miracle, or other memorable part of our Lord's '\ history occurring in the Gospel before you. Read them a second time for infernal evidence of their I truth. A third time with a Diatessaron to mark the order of events, or any other matter of instruction. ' To those fond of literature, the Scriptures will have also another and a wholly different value, for literary and secular purposes. For the Bible is allowed to be the most curious book in the world. It contains more knowledge of life and of the human heart than all the writings of Shakspeare, Horace, Clarendon, Thucy- dides, and as many others as we please to mention. It comprises all that was discovered, and much more '\ that was overlooked, by the moral philosophers of ■ ancient and modern times. And the proof is this: — ' Butler may be said lo have been the corrector of the ancient ethical writers. Mackintosh, Robert Hall, and Dr. Chalmers, no inconsiderable writers of mo- ■ dern times, acknowledge that they were taught by . Butler, and Butler pretends only to have been tauglit by Scripture. Well then might the Rev. H. Melville ;. say, " It is a truth made known to us by God, and at the same time demonstrable by reason, that in going through the courses of Bible instruction, there is a ' better mental discipline, whether for the child or for ', the adult, than in any of the cleverly devised methods for opening and strengthening the faculties." It is advisable, however, to bear in mind when we take up the Scriptures to gather the precious seed, and when to examine the husk — when to read the Word and when the letter ; and since it is allowable in a proper spirit to improve the mind as well as the heart, and since ignorance of the Scriptures, in the present i state of society, is happily accounted a disgrace, no • less to the scholar than the man ; it is convenient for . literary purposes to keep a separate copy, in which to enter observations, as we read of Oriental customs, Jewish antiquities. Natural history of the Bible, or any thing else illustrative of Scripture. To show the ■ interest and the great satisfaction which may arise , from being thus attentive in the pursuit of knowledge, ' I will select from one of my own Bibles a few notes, which, without the method I recommend, might pass ; unheeded through the mind. At Gen. vi. 15. " The length, depth, and width of the ' Great Britain' steam-ship is in feet exactly what the Ark was in cubits I" Acts xxviii. 1. Melita, certainly not Malta, but an island in the Adriatic called Melite, where there are snakes, though in Malta there are none, and of which the people were in St. Paul's day barbarous, but at Malta civilized. Besides, Malta is not in ^dn'a, though Melite is.— Coleridge's Table Talk. Acts xxviii. 13. " Fetched a compass. A friend, in making the same voyage from Syracuse to Rhegium recently, observed that a considerable sailing round, as the Greek means literally, was unavoidable. Gen. viii. 9. The dove. Dr. Meuse says that the N. American Indians have a tradition oiabig canoein which came eight persons across the water caused by the Great Spirit. They hold the willow sacred, be- cause a dove flew with it from the canoe. John i. 1. At Otaheite, the names of the superior deities are the Father, the Son, and the Friend Bird, which inspires the priests. — Serle's Horce Solilarim. Job xxix. This chapter moved Sir J. Mackintosh to tears on his death-bed. These instances will exemplify my meaning. Again, the poetry of the Bible and the beauties of natural and simple diction deserve attention. To com- mit them to memory is the best exercise for the im- provement of taste. Wordsworth once remarked that he knew no poetry finer than that of Jeremiah. Mrs. Hemans preferred St. John to the other Evangelists. Coleridge considered the Epistle to the Romans the finest of St. Paul's compositions. These are hints for the exercise of criticism. Again, whenever you read, compare scripture with scripture. Commentaries at best are only like advisers, who may assist for the moment, but never yet made any man jvise. While you trust to commentators you will never gain the full use of the faculties which God has given you ; nor indeed can you hope to enjoy any thing better than a flat, insipid, spiritless dilution of scriptural truth. With respect to the difficulties of holy writ, either they can be solved in an obvious and satisfactory way or they cannot. If they can, a person of ordinary understand- ing, by examining the context and seeking ihniiar ex- pressions, may solve the difficulties as well as any commentator ; if they cannot, the opinions of commen- tators, though sometimes instructive, are frequently of little use, differing widely from each other, being enveloped in a cloud of words, and more fanciful than reasonable. On these grounds I maintain that one hour's study with references is worth ten with notes. Compare verse with verse, and let your maxim be " Every reader his own commentator." Learn by heart one verse of the Bible every day. One of my friends takes the first verse which meets his eye as the Bible happens to open. A better plan is to mark the verses you prefer in several books, and learn them in order. If you are not contented with one, choose a second or a third from a different part ; but do not impose too much upon yourself at first. The great thing is never to omit one verse each day. Do not despise the importance of this method, still less the self-command which constancy in its performance requires. I warn you that it is not very easy so to learn 365 verses in the year without being once in arrears. If you miss a day do not allow yourself to make it up ; but let the inequality between the number of verses and of days continue as a punishment. Per- severance and regularity will insure such a knowledge of the more familiar texts of Scripture as experience alone can render credible. But remember that all depends on the regularity and uninterrupted habit. Mark the 30 or 31 verses on the first day of each month, and consider you have failed unless the number of the day and of the verse are the same. The Hebrew or Greek version is of course to be preferred by scholars ; still none should omit the English. One of my friends, a young lady, takes much in- terest in writing out the verses to which the marginal references of the Bible allude. Her paper is ruled by the stationer with one vertical column about two inches wide, for the text ; the rest of the page has horizontal A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 53 lines. One line also guards the margin that ihe work may in future years admit of being bound. This is a much more profitable employment than knitting, though ladies may be allowed to do both. Who would not be more proud of a mother who bequeathed him a commentary than a quilt ? The Society for the Diflusion of Christian Know- ledge has published a prayer-book with marginal re- ferences. The Catechism, the Two Sacraments, and the Articles would be very useful portions for such illustration. In the last age young ladies u.sed to be taught at school to present their mammas with a sampler ; if every young lady and young gentleman too were required to produce a neat copy of all the scripture proofs of our liturgy, it would produce a wonderful extension of scriptural knowledge of the soundest kind. Another exercise, really invaluable to clergymen especially, is to make a scriptural common-place book. This will require the use of two books, one as a day book, another as a ledger. The day book must be always at hand as you read the Bible from end to end. In this you will write down promiscuously any illus- tration of the divine attributes, faith, justification, types, prophecies, and innumerable other topics, as you please. Then in your ledger you will enter each of these under its proper head, which you will also notice with the number of the page in the index. A small work of this kind has been pubhshed by Chalmers. Lastly, attend particularly to the style, dates, and proofs of the genuineness and authenticity of the several books of Scripture ; and read the history of the different translations. For this purpose Gray's or Percy's "Key," Tomline, or Home's " Introduc- tion," will be serviceable. 2. WORKS OF COMMENTARY AND NOTES. We will now consider some of the many valuable works which have been written to explain the several books or parts of Scripture respectively. First. On the whole of the Bible it will be enough to mention Home's "Introduction," which contains informa- tion so varied, that few persons can require more. And here I remind my readers that this work con- tains further instructions on Theological reading. The " Epitome of Home's Introduction," (1 vol.,) and " Key to the Bible," by the Society, will be useful for those who have little time for study. "A Critical Commentary and Paraphrase on the Old and New Testament and Apocrypha," by Pa- trick, Lowth, Arnald, Whitby, and Lownian.' The Commentaries on the Bible by Mant, Scott, Clarke, and others, are well known. Secondly. On the Old Te.itament, Gray's "Key" is very valuable. That of Tomline is also useful. Bishop Horsley's Biblical Criticism" is highly es- teemed by the few who know it. A new edition is now advertised in a more convenient form. Thirdly. On separate portions and subjects of Scripture. On the Pentateuch, Graves's "Lectures" display much useful learning. The "Horae Mosaicag," by G. S. Faber, 1818, is much admired for scriptural learning and truth. Warburton's " Divine Legation" is one of the stan- dard pieces of English literature. On the Prophecies generally, read Sir I. Newton and Davidson's "Discourses upon Prophecy," also Keith. On the minor Prophets only. Bishop Newcome and George Hutcheson (1675) have written. The first is ' A Critical Commentary and Paraphrase on THE Old and New Testament and Apocrypha, by Patrick, Lowth, Arnald, Whitby, and Lowman, a new edition, with the text printed at large, 4 vols. Carey &. Hart, Phila., Wiley & Putnam, N. York. Price Sl6. termed "critical and useful," the second "pithy, full, and spiritual." On the historical parts , read " History of the Bible," and "History of the Jews." Also a most useful analysis given at the end of Mant's Bible. On the whole of the New Testament, Percy's " Key to the New Tesiameni" is very popular. "Para- phrase of the New Testament," by Richard Baxter, 8vo, 1810, is said to be a book "of much piety and good sense, but very brief." All commentaries will naturally be brief, when the author means rather to solve than evade difficulties. Doddridge's "Family Expositor." Every work must be valuable by the author of the " Rise and Progress;" of whom a writer in the "Edinburgh Review" truly said that "no man on earth more I breathed the atmosphere of heaven. He writes like a man of open and honest mind ; every page bears the stamp of truth." On the Four Gospels. Campbell's "Four Gospels translated" is a valuable critical work. Read also Elsley's "Annotations on the Four Gospels and Acts of the Apostles." Bishop J. B. Sumner's " Practical Expositions on the Gospels of Matthew and Mark." The English " Diatessaron" is useful to mark the order of events. On the Miracles, read Campbell's work. O71 the Epistles of St. Paul, Paley's " Horse Pau- linae" will never be superseded. Shuttleworth's " Paraphrase of the Epistles" iethe most concise and generally useful commentary. Oti St. Peter, Leighton's book is one of the first of Scripture classics. It will be of no real use to proceed with a list of the commentators of each separate book of the Bible; because every one who has read half of the works already mentioned, must have risen above the rank of those I presume to instruct. I must refer to Mr. Bickersteth's " Christian Student," which contains a classification of the booksellers' theological cata- logues, with remarks. On Biblical Antiquities. Many works combine entertainment with instruction ; such as Jenning's " Jewish Antiquhies." Lightfoot's works, chiefly on the same subject. Shuckford's " Sacred and profane History con- nected." Prideaux's "Connection of the Old and New Testament." Harris's " Natural History of the Bible." Burder's " Oriental Customs and Literature." Calcott's " Scripture Herbal." Townley's "Illustrations of Biblical Literature." Carpenter's "Scripture Natural History, or an Account of the Zoology, Botany, and Geology of the Bible. AH of these works are highly valued. Those of Lightfoot, Shuckford, and Prideaux are standard classics. The last six, though not less improving, may be termed light reading, and give agreeable relief to severer studies. 3. ON DOCTRINE. Of the Person and Offices of Christ. Home re- commends "Stuart's Letters to Dr. Channing" as admirably depicting the subtle criticisms of an accom- plished Unitarian, in a fine spirit of Christian philoso- phy. Mr. Bickersteth mentions Gumey's " Biblical Notes to confirm the Deity of Christ," as a very solid, able, and profitable illustration of texts of Scripture. On the Offices of the Holy Spirit. Serle's "Horae Solitariae" exhausts the subject. In his chapter on the Trinity, he has availed himself of his extensive classical learning. Heber's " Bampton Lectures" are on the Holy Ghost as a comforter. Of Dr. Bur- ton's Sermons, two treat of the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, in a very sound and con- sistent manner. On the Trinity. Serle's Essay, above mentioned, e2 54 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. and Home's "Scripture Doctrine of the Trinity;" also sermons and worlds too obvious to mention. On Election and Fredesti nation. There arc some very fair and reasonable remarks in " Christ our Ex- ample." Bishop Tomline's " Refutation of Calvin- ism," gives all that can be said on one side, and Tho- mas Scott's " Remarks on Bishop Tomline's ' Refu- tation,' " on the other. Read the 17;h Article of the Church, in Burnet. Copleslon on " Necessity and Predestination," alludes to Scott, and terms him the most pious and temperate of modern Calvinists, though his doctrine of predestination, he says, "ap- pears to me mistaken and dangerous." The Rev. J. Scott, in the life of his father, shows that he was very cautious of bringing this doctrine before a mixed congregation, and once observed of Wilberforce's book, that it was not Calvinistic, and so much the better, being more suited to the class of persons to whom it was addressed. In studying this doctrine, we should consider whether authors do not dispute about a word, while they agree about the thing. On Faith and J unification, read Bishop Barlow's " Two Letters on Justification." Of this it was said by Archdeacon Browne, " The subject is treated with a degree of closeness of reasoning and logical accu- racy, which defies confutation." Also Burnet's 11th Article. On Baptism. The sentiments of the writers of the first four centuries, are given in Wall's "His- tory of Infant Baptism." There is also a well known treatise on Baptism by Matthew Henry, and nume- rous sermons and essays both before and since. Read especially Burnet on the 27th Article. On the Lord's Supper. Burnet on the Articles 25, 26, 28, 29, 30. 4. READING FOR CONTROVERTISTS. First, Against Infidelity. On the evidences of Christianity, the following books, some simple, some abstruse, comprise answers to every possible objec- tion. Paley's "Evidences of Christianity," I have al- ready mentioned. Almost the whole is easily intel- ligible, and many chapters so interesting as to require but little effort. It is universally allowed to be one of the first argumentative works in the English lan- guage. Paley's "Horse Paulinae," is also considered very convincing, as well as one of the best commenta- ries on the Epistles. With this we may class Keith on the Prophecies, and the works of Bishops Hurd and Newton; as also Campbell on the Mira- cles. All of these combine explanation with argu- ment. Shuttle worth's " Consistency of Revelation with Human Reason," I have always considered especially valuable, because it meets the very difficuhies which are most hkely to occur to men of fair mind, honestly open to conviction. With this book I should class. First, " Graves on the Pentateuch," a very learned work, yet easy to understand. Few books should be chosen before this ; it contains facts and reflections which are highly necessary to be known, though very unlikely to be found in common authors ; and. Secondly, "Watson's Apology for the Bible," of which George II. is said to have observed, he did not know that the Bible needed any apology, not con- sidering that Justin Martyr and others of the early Christians used to set forth defences of the Gospel under the name of Apologia, which, in Greek, means a defence. Watson and Graves wrote in answer to the cavils of Paine and other infidels of the French Revolution. M'llvaine's " Lectures on Evi- dences," gives an account of the death of Paine, which, if well known, would be the best antidote to the poison of his life ; it is an intelligible selection from Paley and others, containing but little original matter. Of Butler's "Analogy," I knew one who said he always doubted till he read it, and never doubted after. The reasoning is too deep for many readers, yet I would have all give it a trial. I have known cases in wiiich it has been comprehended by those who had the greatest diffidence in attempting it. Gregory's "Letters are much recommended, as giving a plain and easy exposition of difficuhies. Sumner's " Evidences," -i Lardner's " Credibility," | Gibson's " Pastoral Letters," " Jenkins's " Reasonableness," and Stillingfleet's " Origines Sacrce," are all works of authority. Paley and Butler, if well read and digested, nearly exhaust the subject. Butler shows that there is no reason why we should not believe, and Paley that there is much reason why we should. Shuttleworth is the best substitute for Butler. The value of the " Analogy" cannot be fully appreciated without con- sidering the urgency of the times in which it was written. Butler observes, "It comes, I know not how, to be taken for granted, that Christianity is now at length discovered to be fictitious." Horace Wal- pole said, that Queen Caroline particularly recom- mended his father to read it; indeed, it was wanted in high life, for Lady Montague, even while she ex- presses her alarm at so many young ladies being infi- dels, speaks in a way which shows she regarded reli- gion as rather useful than true. Robert Hall's sermon on " Modern Infidelhy," is very celebrated. This is a masterly composition, showing enlarged and comprehensive views. Secondly, In Co7ilroversy with Jews, Bishop Kid- der's " Demonstration of the Messiah," and Thomas Scott's " Discussion on the principal Question be- tween the Jews and Christians," in reply to the Rab- bi Crool. Of course all other works on evidences will he of much service, but Scott's reply to the Rab- bi's " Restoration of Israel" teaches us to avail our- selves of every advantage which the faith of a Jew- ish adversary affords, and " discuss every important question concerning the Messiah of the Old Testa- ment, on the ground of the Old Testament only." Thirdly, Against Popery, Finch's "Sketch of the Roman Controversy" is said to contain a valuable collection of documents from many sources. Dp. Marsh's " Comparative View of the Churches of England and Rome." M' Ghee's " Truth and Error contrasted." Pascal's " Provincial Letters," affords the most witty and keen exposure of the Jesuits. Both for the briUiancy of composition, and the influence they exerted, these letters hold the highest place in the history of literature. Besides these, numerous works have been written in the form of sermons, and notes of particular con- troversies, as well as histories, digests, and replies, which a bookseller's catalogue will point out. Fourthly, Against Arianism, read Whittaker's "History of Arianism ;" Burnet's "Articles,'' and the works which are recommended on the 'Trinity. This course of reading will apply also Fifthly, Against Socinianism ; read also J. Ed- wards's " Preservative against Socinianism ;" Ward- law's " Discourses on the principal Points of the So- cinian Controversy ;" and Fuller's "Calvinistic and Socinian Systems compared." Sixthly, Against Disse7iters from the Established Church. The great champion of the Established Church is Hooker. His " Ecclesias'tical Polity," like the writ- ings of most men of true genius, is calculated to enrich and expand the reader's views on a variety of subjects. But Hooker is too grave a writer for the youthful student. Thelvvall's "Letters (one duode- cimo) on the Church," explain in a clear and familiar way, the nature of the Establishment, the excellence of oiir liturgy, and the importance of a national church. Boyd on " Episcopacy," enters more deeply into the origin and authority of our Church. To those who have not time to read Mr. Boyd's larger work, I would strongly recommend his " Lectures on Epis- A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 55 copacy," delivered at Cheltenham. l\Ir. Thelwall recommends M'Neile's "Letters on the Church;" also the Rev. A. M'Caul's three sermons on " The Divine Commission of the Christian Ministry," and the " Principles of a Church Establishment." To the general reader, a truly valuable work is " Essays on tlie Church," by a layman. This author modestly pretends to be only a compiler, who having read ail the pamphlets for or against the dissenters, which ap- peared about the year 1833, endeavoured to bring the whole argument within the compass of one small volume. Chalmers's Sermons should also be read ; also an article in the Edinburgh Review, vol. xxvi. From Dr. Dwighl's " Travels in New England and New York," we learn how little the " case of Ameri- ca" proves against an establishment; an extract is given in " Essays on the Church." 5. THE PRINCIPAL Vv^RITERS ON DIVINITY. A mere list of authors will seem of little use ; but my object is to induce the student to follow some method in his selection ; to read writers of the same period at the same time, in order to learn the peculiar character and style of each school, so to speak, of divinity. It is useful also to compare the changes in theological writing with those of other branches of literature. The different styles of composition may also be noticed, and more particularly the change from the weighty to the wordy style with smooth sounds instead of hard sense. The following classification of Divines is that adopted by the Rev. E. Bickersteth in his " Christian Student," first pubHshed in 1829. This is a valuable guide in Divinity studies. Of course since its publi- cation many works have appeared deserving of notice ; and not a few have been rendered available by trans- lations, selections, and reprinting. The number of volumes of a serious character read by some persons, in the course of a year, is so great that if, instead of mere casual recommendation, they would be guided by the following lists of writers, they might soon gain a very comprehensive knowledge of Theology. First. The Fathers. Dr. Chalmers fairly says, " We ought not to cast the Book of Antiquity away from us, but give it our most assiduous perusal, while at the same time we sit in the exercise of our free and independent judgment over its contents." The writings of many of the Fathers are now accessible by means of English translations. Still the remembrance of all the tales of pale students, dusty folios, and the mid- night lamp in monastic cells, which used to be asso- ciated with the very names of the Fathers, has not quite passed away ; and therefore I am not sanguine that many will be persuaded even to open one of These awe-inspiring volumes, should it fall in their way: nor can I be disappointed if some cannot be induced to read first and judge afterwards. As to another class of persons who do not hesitate to avow an utter indifference to the writings of the Fathers, I have only to say that to feel no curiosity about the compositions of men who were the first and foremost of Christian champions in times the most critical to the faith, and who have bequeathed to us the readiest weapons against the skeptics of our own time& — to care nothing about Justin IMartyr, Tertullian, Cyprian, Chrysostom, Athanasius, Augustine — to feel no curiosity about the works of those who, like Jerome and Origen, have done much to restore and preserve the pure text of Scripture, this certainly betrays a feeling hard indeed to reconcile wiih a due sense of our Gospel privileges. "It is difficult indeed to be insensible," says Mr. Conybeare. in his Lectures, " to the beauty, the piety, the devotion, and the spiritual feeling which are found in almost every page of the Commentary of Augustine." In short, if any person doubt that the works of the Fathers have a real a|)pre- ciable value, founded not in the mere curiosities of ancient literature, but on good and useful service done. let him read the "Evidences" of Paley, and then consider, first, whether his leading arguments could be maintained without the testimony so largely derived from the Fathers; and secondly, whether ihcsu argu- ments are not indispensable to the delencc oi Cliris- tianity upon external evidence. The reason I instance Palcy's work in preference to any other evidences is, that its style and way of reasoning is of a most popular kind, and while many other works may confirm those who believe, Paley is convincing to those v.lio doubt. It is related of the Duke of Wellington, that, on hear- ing one of his officers speak lightly of Revelation, he asked him, " Did you ever read Paley?" "No." " 'i'hen you are not qualified to give an opinion." The translations to which I alluded form the "Library of the Fathers of the Holy Catholic Church," published by the Oxford Tract party. Already soine of the works of St. Augustine, Cyril, Cyprian, Chrysostom, Athanasius, and Tertullian have appeared. Also in " The Christian's Family Library" there is one volume, entitled " The Chris- tian Fathers of the First and Second Century ; their Principal Remains at large ; with selections from their other Writings." Milner and Mosheim may lioili be consulted for the general character of the Fathers. Also Home's" Introduction." Conybeare's " Bamp- ton Lectures," above mentioned, contain "An Ana- lytical Examination into the character, value, and just j application of the Writings of the Christian Fathers, i during the Ante-Nicene Period." Dr. Burton also } published " Testimonies of the Ante-Nicene Fathers J- to the Divinity of Christ." J In the works of N. Lardner (a Socinian writer) we have a careful examination of the testimony which the fathers have afibrded to the Scriptures. Dr. Clarke's " Succession of Sacred Literature," with his "Bib- j liographical Miscellany," and more particularly Cave's t " Lives of the Fathers of the First Four Ages of the " Church," are books of high authority. SeconrJIy. The Schoolmen. At the beginning of the Reformation, a monk declared that Greek was i " the mother of all heresy," and that as to Hebrew, J " it is certain that all who learn it become instantly Jews." For this abhorrence of learning we must blame the abuse of ii by the schoolmen, of whom Luther said, " they did nothing but propose paradoxes, and that their whole art was built on a contempt of Scripture." The best advice I can offer the general reader is conveyed in the words of Leighton, " To understand and be master of those trifling disputes that pr(;vail in the schools, is an evidence of a very mean understanding." Bonaventura, Aquinas, Bradwar- dine, Wickliffe, Huss, and Jerome, are the names of the principal schoolmen ; the life and opinions of Wick- liffe have been written by Mr. Vaughan. " Estius's Sum," says Mr. Bickersteth, "is considered to con- tain the best account of the Scholastic Divinity." Tliinlhi. The Reformeks. Tindal, Latimer, Cran- mer, Ridley, and Philpot, Bradford, Jewell, Fox, Knox, are the writers whose lives and opinions are most worthy of attention. A work in twelve volumes, by the Religious Tract Society, gives selections front their works, as well as from those of Bale, Barnes, Becon, Bilney, Borthwick, Clement, Frith, Gilby, Lady J. Grey, Hamilton, Hooper, Joye, Lambert, Queen Parr. Ponet, Rogers, Sampson, Saunders, Taylor, Wicklifle, and Wishart. More matter of the same kind will be found inLegh Richmond's "Fathers of the English Church," and in Bickersteth's " Testi- mony of the Reformers." Mr. Le Bas, Principal of the E. I. College, has written the lives of Cranmer. Wickliffe, Jewell, and Laud. The "English Mar- tyrology," aliridged from Foxe, by Charlotte Eliza- beth, a most able writer, forms two small volumes in "The Christian's Family Library." Of the Foreign Reformers, Luther, IMelancthon, Erasmus, Calvin. Zuinglius, CEcolampadius, iMartyr, Bucer, Beza, Buliinger, are men with whom, either by biography (especially D'Aubigiie's), or extracts, we have many opportunities of becoming acquainted. 56 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING, Fourthly, The Soccessoks of the Reformek?. Of these tlie principal writers are, Hooker, whose " Ecclesiastical Polity" is univcr- sall}' allowed to be the strongest bulwark of the esta- blished church. In this work there is a wonderful •weif'ht of words, a most appropriate selection of topics and cogent reasoning. This author is usually quoted as " the Judicious Hooker." His life, by Isaac Walton, i.s one of the most valuable pieces of biogra- phy in our language. He died a. d. KJOO. Richard Sibbes, died about thirty-five years after Hooker. The " Bruised Reed," and " Soul's Con- flict," are the titles of two of his best works. Archbishop Usher, died a. d. 1656. He was called by Dr. Johnson "the great luminary of the Irish church." He is famed for having read all the Fathers. Mr. Bickersteih mentions Usher's " Answer to the Jesuit," as one of the best pieces against Romanism. .Since ]\Ir. Bickersteih's time. Usher's " Body of Di- vinity" has been published, in a convenient form, price only 12s. His works complete, in a handsome iorm, fill IS vols., now publishing at 12s. each. A collection of Usher's letters, and his life, were published by his chaplain. Dr. Richard Parr. Dr. Hammond, the chaplain of Charles I. in Caris- brook Castle, wrote a paraphase of the New Testa- ment. Sanderson, also attached to Charles, and, to compensate for persecution, elevated to the bishopric of Lincoln at the Restoration, wrote " Nine Cases of Conscience," and "Discourse on the Church." Dr. I\Iede, accounted the ablest interpreter of ob- scure prophecy. Jeremy Taylor, a writer of great fertility and depth of thought. His defence of episcopacy and the litur- gy were much admired by Bishop Heber, who thought that in imagination and real genius, Taylor was be- fore either Hooker or Barrow. Few writers have been more gleaned by modern divines. His life has been written by Bonney. Bishops Babington, Cowper, Greenham, and An- drews lived in this period. Fifthly, The Nonconfokmists, comprising all who separated from the liturgy and ceremonies of the Church, from the Reformation till modern times. On this period, and indeed on every other, " The Christian Student" is strongly recommended. However deeply rooted may be our hatred of dis- sent, we must not carry it so far as to think lightly of all the writers of dissenters, or we shall lose some of the most valuable theological discussions and works of practical piety. One anecdote of Lord Burleigh deserves to be better known. When some com- plained to Lord Burleigh of the liturgy, and said they only wished its amendment, he told them to make a better ; one class of the complainants formed a new one, like that of Geneva; another class altered the new one in 600 particulars ; a third, quarrelling about the alteration, proposed a new model, and a fourth dissented from all. Dr. Owen, famed for sound learning and judgment. His writings are very numerous, and they are of a high Calvinistic character. Baxter. Read the article on his life and writings in the Edinburgh Magazine, 1S43. He was chaplain to Whalley's regiment after the battle of Naseby. He tried to reconcile Calvinism with Arminianism. He wrote 145 treatises, of which four were folios, seventy-three quartos, and forty-nine octavos. He wrote much in jail, under the foul sentence of Jef- feries. Charnock, famed for masculine style and original- ity of thought. His "Discourses on Providence" are considered the best. Dr. Goodwin, a favourite of Cromwell, whom he attended on his death-bed. He wrote sermons, e.x'po- sitions, and controversial treatises. Howe, nervous and majestic. Robert Hall, said Burke, was the best author for earth, and Howe for heaven. His "Living Temple" is very celebrated. I would particularly recommend the work, published among the "Sacred Classics." Dr. Bates, fluent, with beautiful similitudes. Fiavel, fervent, touching the conscience, and mov- ing the feelings. Caryl, ofFiciateJ with Dr. Owen as a minister to Cromwell. His " Commentary on Job" is in 12 vols. 4to. Dr. Manton. See Neal's "Puritans." Matthew Pool: the "Synopsis Criticorum," in 5 folios, was his chief work. Sixthly, The Divines of the Restoration and Revolution. This era was marked, says Bishop Heber in his Life of Taylor, by a school of literature and composition, of all others which this country has seen, the least favourable to genius, and the most un- like that style of thinking and expression which had distinguished Jeremy Taylor and his contemporaries. What Augustine said of Cicero has been remarked of more. than one of the following writers, with re- ference to their avoiding Scriptural terms, and not sufficiently enforcing Cliristian motives ; namely, " that we cease to be captivated with him, because the name of Christ does not occur in him." Bishop Burnet. Read his "Articles," "Refor- mation," and " Own Times." Bishop Reynolds, very terse and full; devotional and controversial — a strong Calvinist. Archbishop Leighton. His Commentary on St. Peter has been already mentioned. Bishop Beveridge, very learned in Oriental litera- ture. He wrote on the Thirty-nine Articles. His " Private Thoughts" are most known, and published among the " Sacred Classics." Archbishop Tillotson. Locke considered Tillotson and Chiilingworth very remarkable for perspicuity. Heber speaks of " the dull good sense of Tillotson." He attended with Dr. Burnet at the execution of Lord William Russell. He was accused of Socinianism, Dr. Jortin says, because, in making some \;oncessions to the Socinians, he had brolcen through one ancient rule of controversy, "allow not an adversary either common sense or common honesty." In answer to this charge he repubhshed four of his sermons "on the Incarnation and Divinity." His sermons are best known. As to the style in which he wrote, read " Fitzosborne's Letters" by Melmoth, who qualifies the excessive praise it had long received. Isaac Barrow was so deep and copious that Charles II. used to call him an unfair preacher, because he left nothing to be said after him. His sermons are a mine of brilliant thoughts and sterling arguments. He was a great mathematician, deemed second only to Sir Isaac Newton. His sermon on " vain and idle talking" is quoted by Addison, as a specimen of sin- gular felicity of expression. Stillingfleet: his writings against popery are very valuable. The elegance and learning of the " Origines Sacraj" has made it more popular. His " Origines Biitannicffi" give antiquities of the churches of Bri- tain. He had a controversy with Locke, arising from certain remarks made in his "Defence of the Doc- trine of the Trinity." John Locke wrote "on the Reasonableness of Christianitv," and Paraphrases and Notes to several of St. Paul's Epistles. Robert South held a controversy with Sherlock on the Trinity. His sermons are well known. His style is nervous, with much point and wit. His writings are in great repu'e. Sherlock (William, named above) wrote against the dissenters. Thomas Sherlock, his son, wrote a tract well w^orth reading, called " The Trial of the Witnesses of the Resurrection." Wilson, Bishop of the Isle of Man, published "Ecclesiastical Constitutions," of which Lord Chan- cellor King said, that " if the ancient discipline of the f^hurch were lost, it might be found in the Isle of Man." He wrote also sermons and tracts. William Law: his "Serious Call to a Religious Life" was considered by Dr. Johnson one of the most powerful works of the kind. His " Practical Trea- tise on Christianity" is also very good. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 57 Bishop Warburton: his " Julian," "Alliance of Church and State," and "Divine Legation," are much admired. Read Dr. Johnson's character of Warburton in his " Life of Pope." It was said that Bishop Bull was his master, and Jeremy Taylor his favourite divine. Bishop Watson answered Paine and Gibbon. His "Apology" has been already mentioned. Archbishop Seeker wrote " Sermons and Lectures on the Church Catechism." Bishop Berkeley fell dead while hearing a sermon, written by Dr. Sherlock. He is more known as a philosopher than as a divine. Bishop Butler, the author of the Sermons and Ana- logy already mentioned. Secondli/, MoDEKN Writers. T. H. Home, author of the " Introduction." Jonathan Edwards, who wrote on " The Will." Romaine, author of the most popular book on Faith. Milner, author of the " Church History." Jones, of Nayland, deemed one of the most satis- factory writers on the Trinity. Newton, the history of whose life is universally recommended, as also are his letters. Scott, the author of the " Commentary." Robert Hall, one of the finest writers in the En- ghsh language ; clear, candid, and very powerful. Bishop Horsley, the author of " Biblical Criticism." These are the principal writers of the beginning of the present century. It does not seem requisite to enumerate any later authors. ON THE PRAYER BOOK. Read first the '• History of the Prayer-Book" by the C. K. Society. This is a small volume, contain- ing a useful addition to Church History. Shepherd "on the Common Prayer;" Wheatley's " Illustration of Common Prayer ;" Nelson's " Companion for the Fasts and Festi- vals;" and Mant " on the Liturgy," are all standard works. On " The Rubrics and Canons of the Church," a work much recommended, was written in 1753, by Thomas Sharp. " Lectures and Sermons on the Liturgy" have been published by Bishop Jebb, 2 vols. 8vo., 1830 ; Thomas Rogers, 2 vols. Svo. ; Bishop J. Bird Sumner, 8vo. (more particularly on the Fasts and Festivals) ; Mat- thew Hale, 4 vols. 8vo, 1838, a new edition ; and others. Bishop Taylor's " Apology for the Liturgy," He- ber considered among the best of Taylor's Polemical Discourses. Bishop Nicholson's work on the Catechism has been lately republished. One of the most compendious and useful books of reference, to those who would purchase one only on this and most other ecclesiastical matters, is the Rev. J. E. Riddle's " Ecclesiastical Chronology, or An- nals of the Church," containing History, the relations of the Church to the State; controversies, sects, rites, discipline, writers. On the Church of England, besides the above, Bishop Jewell's famous " Apology for the Church of England." written in Latin, and translated by the mother of Sir Francis Bacon, is considered to have promoted the Reformation more than any other book. This, with Hooker's " Polity," Burnet's " Articles," and Nicholson " On the Book of Common Prayer." are considered unexceptionable expositions of the doctrines of the Church of England. As to the Sermons, exhortations and addresses to the feelings, they are abundantly suppUed from our pulpits, and by the list of works which I shall pre- sently recommend for the closet. For real instruc- tion, "The Bampton Lectures." " The Hulsean Lectures," "The 100 Sermons of the Sunday Library," by Heber, Seeker, Blomfield, Home, Horsley, Maltby, 8 Mant, Sumner, Robert Hall, Chalmers, and others ; Arnold's " Sermons at Rugby School ;" " Heber's Sermons ;" arc all standard works, affording ample scope for every choice ; so that after the many old writers already recommended, I may be spared the invidious and very difficult task of specifying what hving au- thors deserve a preference. For general theological reading — " The Library of the Fathers ;" " Anglo-Catholic Theology ;" " The Theological Library ;" " The Enghshman's Library ;" " The Christian's Family Library ;" are series of pubHcations containing valuable reprints of old Standard Divinity, with some original compo- sition. Lastly, as to Practical Works, or Books for the Closet, Mr. Bickersteth remarks, that " it would be well for authors to consider to what books God has given the most influence in producing extensively a spirit of religion. If I were to name twelve works in our own language, I should name the following: — Adams's Private Thoughts, Alleine's Alarm, Baxter's Call, Saint's Rest, Beveridge's Private Thoughts, Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, Doddridge's Rise and Progress, Hervcy's Theron and Aspasio, Law's Serious Call, Milner's History of the Church, Scott's Force of Truth, Wilberforce's Practical View. I have requested many of my clerical friends to mention works of the same kind, and have invariably found most of their favourite authors in this list. Bunyan, Doddridge, and Wilberforce are most true to nature. Of Doddridge a late edition has a valua- ble essay by John Forster. Home's " Introduction," Bickersteth's " Chris- tian Student," and Messrs. Longman's " Classified Catalogue," will render any further assistance that the Biblical student can require. ON THE STUDY OF POETRY.--CRITI- CISM.— TASTE. "Johnson's Lives of the Poets" will be a hand- book or guide to the poets.' Of Chaucer few read more than one or two tales as a specimen.2 Sprn^er^ will improve taste — an author whom men of deep poetic leeling fondly read, and others distantly admire. Shakspeare no one should every cease reading : begin with the tragedies. Cowley, Waller, Philips, Parnell, Rowe, Prior, Gay, Green, Tickell, Somerville, Swift, Collins, Dyer, Churchill, Akenside, Lyttleton, Armstrong, J. Warton, T. Warton, Mason, Beattie, are authors of whom those of limited opportunities may be con- tented to read such parts only as Johnson or other critics point out.* ' Johnson's Lives of the Poets, 2 vols. Phila. 2 Chaucer's Works, a new edition, in 1 vol. Svo. E. Moxon, London. 3 Spenser's Works, a beautiful edition, in 5 vols. Svo. Little & Brown, Boston. ^ The British Poets, complete, edited by Robert Walsh, .50 vols. 18mo. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. The Poets and Poetry of England, of the 19th Century, with selections from 75 Poets, and biogra- phical notices, by Rufus W. Griswold, 1 vol. 8vo, with seven beautiful illustrations, price $3.50. Carey & Hart. Philadelphia. The Poets and Poetry of America, with bio- graphicajj notices by Rufus W. Griswold, beautifully 58 A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. Of Millou, to read "Paradise Lost" is the duty of all — the pleasure of a few. Fuseli thought the second book the grandest effort of tlie human inind. All the minor works are better known than " Para- disc Regained." Oi Dnjltn, "Alexander's Feast" is one of the most popular lyric odes. His "Fables," "Annus Mirabilis" and " Translation of Virgil" arc the most celebrated. Dryden is considered to evince more strength and real poetry with less smoothness than Pope. Bolingbroke admired his prose writing. Mack- intosh thought " The Cock and the Fo.\" Dryden's best poem. Of Addison, read the " Cato" and Psalm xxiii. Of Pope, the " Rape of the Lock" is the best of all heroi-comical poems ; " Eloisa to Abelard" is the most immoral and impious poem ever sanctioned ; most unworthy of the author of the " Messiah," which should be learned by heart and compared with Isaiah and Virgil. The " Essay on Criticism" and " Dun- ciad" show that Pope could write as strong lines as any writer. Of the " Essay on Man" the argument was written by Bolingbroke, and versified by Pope. Of Thomson, all admire the sensibility and natural beauty of "The Seasons." He had not the art of giving effect with a few touches. His " Castle of In- dolence" shows more genius, though less known. Of Shenstone, Gray said, "He goes hopping along his own gravel walk, and never deviates from the beaten track, for fear of being lost." " The School- mistress" is one of the best imitations of Spenser. Oi Young, "The Night Thoughts" hold a high place among devotional poetry. Most of the literary world read part, few read all: which, indeed, may almost be said of Milton, for reasons given in John- son's " Life of Milton." Of Gray, the "Elegy" and "Ode to Eton Col- lege," are best known. Of the rest of his odes. Sir J. Mackintosh truly said, " They are most pleasing to the artist who looks to structure." And again, " To those who are capable of that intense applica- tion, which the higher order of poetry requires, and which poetical sympathy always produces, there is no obscurity." Of Goldsmith, " The Deserted Village," ne.\t to Gray's " Elegy," is the most popular piece of English poetry. The other poems are much read. Of Johnson, "London," and "The Vanity of Human Wishes," much admired by Byron, every scholar should compare with the third and tenth satires of Juvenal. His prologue, spoken by Garrick in 1747, is very good. Of Cou-per, " The Task" is considered the master- piece. All his poeins are much read, especially Ale.K- ander Selkirk, John Gilpin, and all the smaller pieces. Cowper, like Euripides, was remarkable for reconciling poetical sentiment with the language of common life. He may be considered the first of the school of Wordsworth. His letters are equal to any. Few poets have had more readers than Cowper. The public say of poetry as cottagers of religious tracts, " We like sotnething with a tale in it." Of later writers Wordsworth is admired by all his brother poets. See Coleridge's " Biographia Litera- ria." Read " The E.xcursion." Crahbe's " Phoelie Dawson" was read to Fo.x on his death-bed. Of the " Borough" Mackintosh said, what Pitt observed of Sir W. Scott's "Minstrel," "I acknowledge his unparalleled power of painting." Of Coleridge, Scott said, translation was his forte. He translated Wallenstein from manuscript, and Schiller adopted and printed some of Coleridge's de- illustrated. 1 vol. 8vo, price $3. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. The Poets and Poetry of Eukofe, with notices of the authors and translations from the Anglo-Saxon, Dutch, Italian, Icelandic, German, Spanish, Swed- ish, French, Portuguese, (fcc, with a history of their literature from the earliest times, by Henry \y. Long- fellow, 1 vol. 750 pages. Carey & Hart, Pftila. viations. The " Ancient Mariner," composed during an evening walk with Wordsworth, as well as his " Christabel," are very celebrated. Mackintosh said Coleridge's "talents were below his understanding; he had never matured his ideas, so as to express them with clearness and order." In other words, Coleridge, like Shelley and others of the same sciiool, often failed in the single step which would have attained to the sublime, and therefore their writings seem to remain in the regions of the ridiculous. Burns, Byron, Moore, Southey, Sir W. Scott, Rogers, L. E. L. (Letitia Elizabeth Landon), Heber, Milman, Keats, Shelley, James Montgomery, are names which I need only mention. The reader may easily learn the names of the best pieces of each; and when he thinks he knows their several styles, then he may read with interest the "Rejected Addresses," and try how many of the supposed authors he can identify. Alfred Tennyson is the poet of the present day. 0?i Taste.— Read Burke " On the Sublime and Beautiful," Alison " On Taste," the principles of which were espoused by Stewart and Jefl'rey ; but see Burns' Letters (Lett. CC). Read the critical articles in the Edinburgh and Quarterly-' Hallam recommends the papers in Blackwood on Spenser, by Professor Wilson. ^ Read Coleridge's criticism of Wordsworth in his "Biographia Literaria." The reviews of Wordsworth. Johnson's "Lives of the Poets;" his criticism of Gray is termed by Mackin- tosh " a monstrous example of critical injustice ;" he adds, "he was unjust to Prior, because he had no feeling of the lively and the graceful." Sir Jamesjustly maintained that " there is a poetical sensibihiy which, in the progress of the mind, becomes as distinct a power, as a musical ear or a picturesque eye," which sensibility Johnson had not. The author of Rasselas certainly had a talent for poetry, and so Sir James him- self was " not wanting in imagery," said Robert Hall, " but it was acquired and imported, not native to his mind." The essay in Black wood on Btirn.s's poetry, by Carlyle, was strongly recommended by Mrs. Hemans. Read also the papers on Milton in the Spectator. Lastly, study attentively poems of different degrees of merit ; compare odes, blank verse, the different measures of Pope and Spenser, Scott, and others, and consider which are best suited to the English language, what poet excels in each ; then confirm or correct your own opinions by those of reputed critics. I have also known much improvement conveyed by a few hours' reading with a tutor of good taste. Coleridge, high as were his natural endowments, ascribed much of his proficiency to school lessons in criticism from Dr. Bowyer at Christ's Hospital. Since the method of studying all subjects is nearly the same, I may now conclude with works on Natural Philosophy, and (-ommon-place Books. Herschel's " Preliminary Discourse," Paley's ' ' Natural Theology," and the Bridgewater Treatises, will each and all tend to a general knowledge of science. Lardner's treatises will teach Astronomy, Mechanics, Hi/draiilics and Hydrostatics, Pneumatics, and Optics.'^ Mrs. Somerville's " Connection of the Physical Sciences," was written to render science accessible to her countrywomen. Arnot's " Physics"^ ' Critical Articles in the Edinburgh ano Quarterly Reviews and Blackwood's Maga- zine. A selection of all the most valuable papers in the above, from the commencement to the present time, has been made and published by Carey & Hart, in the Modern British Essayists. Amongst authors whose works will be found in the series, are Macaulay, Mackintosh, Milman, Sydney .Smith, Jeflrey, Heber, Sir W. Scott, Hallam, Prof Wilson, A. Alison, Lockhart, Gifl^ord, Talfourd, Stephens, &c. &c. 2 The Noctes Ambrosiana of Blackwood. 4 vols, price S4..50. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. ^Lardnf.r's Astronomy. 1vol. Arnot's Physics. 1 vol. Both published by Lea & Blanchard, Phila. A COURSE OF ENGLISH READING. 59 is simple and instructive. On Botany, Mrs. Horry's " Opuscule for Beginners of all Ages," removes very many of the old difficulties ; the object being to teach the principles of the science in the most common words. On Chemistry, " Chemistry no Mystery," by Scoffern, with one of Palmer's chemical chests, &c., will furnish implements for a few shillings, and thus you may teach yourself all necessary e.xpei iments in a few evenings. The works of Brande, Donovan, and Graham' may then, and not till tiicn, be useful. Lardner on the "Steam-Engine,"- Brewster on "Magnetism," Phillips on "Geology," and other treatises, simple or technical, elementary or abstruse, will be found in Messrs. Longman's "Classified Catalogue." Indeed every part of science has of late been treated in a way easy and intelligible to "men, women, and children." Lastly, keep a Common-place Book. Procure " The improved Common-place Book on the plan of Locke." The preface contains instructions. This Common-place Booli, I would advise students to use as a day-book, and to keep a common ruled book of 300 or 400 pages as a ledger. The day-book should contain an analysis of every book that is read, to aid the natural defects of memory, not to supersede it ; that is, we should enter time, place, and persons, and little facts, when, and only when, we can trust our memory with the chief part of the narrative. The entry should resemble the summary we find in books. ' Graham's Chemistry. 1vol. Lea&Blanchard, Philadelphia. The ENCTCLOPiEDiA OF Chemistry, by Booth & Boye, now in course of publication. Several Nos. have already appeared — to be completed in twenty Nos. at 25 cts. each. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. ^ Lardxer on the Steam-Engine. 1 vol. §1.50. Carey & Hart, Philadelphia. We may also enter original thoughts in order as they arise. Then the ledger should be a book of topics in which every subject of interest may luive a page or two assigned it, tor the purpose of cliissifyinji the con- tents of the Common-place or Day Hook. To show the advantage of this, I will copy iVoni my own book one of the i)ages in which I have long stored up any casual notice and recommendation of authors to deter- mine my choice of reading. " Authors recommended and characterized " Read ' Collingwood's letter on Trafalgar,' cp. 2. (i. e. Common-place Book, page 2), and Hutchinson ' On Alexandria,' cp. 8. Burke's opinion of Montes- quieu, cp. 14, and of Voltaire, of Murphy's Transla- tion and ' Ossian,' cp. 14. The prose of Dryden, Shaftesbury, and Hooker characterised, cp. 27. What Neibuhr and what Pitt considered the desiderata of literature, cp. 175. Gent. Mag. for 1"47, about HogEEus. Miss Austin's 'Pride and Prejudice,' Scott thought unequalled, cp. 31. Adolphus's Letters to Heber. ' New Monthly' for 1822, about National Gallery. ' On India and Hindoos,' read W^ard'sbook. Swift's letters better than Pope's, cp. 150. Read Cowper's letters. Mackintosh's opinion of Hume's History, cp. 38. Edinb. No. XLT. 2d article by Mackintosh. Canning's eulogy of Chalmers's 'Ser- mons,' cp. 257. Gray's opinion of Froissart ; whic'n was admired by Hemans, as also Paul and Virginia, cp. 54." I have now said as much as can be useful, and per- haps more, and shall conclude with observing that, however imperfect this little work may be, any young person of ordinary understanding who will follow the advice it contains for one or two hours a day, will soon acquire such habits of .reflection and general kqow- ledge as will greatly increase the pleasure both of his solitary and his social hours. THE END. PHILADELPHIA : STEREOTYPED BY L. JOHNSON. [ 1 26 Chcsmii street, Philadelphia. CAREY 8l HART'S NEW PUBLICATIONS. THE MODERN ESSAYISTS, AT LESS THAN HALF PRICE. The great success that hag attended the publication of the Modern Essayists, comprisiuir the Critical and Miscel- laneous writings of the most distinguished authors of mo- dern times, has induced the publishers to issue a new, revised, and very clieap edition, with finely enjrraved Por- traits of the authors ; and while they have added to the series the writings of several distinguished authors, they have reduced the price more than one half! The writings of each author will be comprised in a sin- gle octavo volume, well printed from new type, on fine, white paper, manufactured expressly for this edition. The series will contain all the most able papers that have ever appeared in The Edinburgh Review, The Londun Quar- terly Rerieic, and Blackwood's Magazine, and may indeed be called the cream of those publications. It is only necessary to mention the names of those au- thors whose writings will appear : T. Babington Macaulay, Archibald Alison, Rev. Si/dneij Smith, Professor JVilson, James Stephen, J. Wilson Croker, Robert Snuthey, fViltiam Hazlitt, Sir Walter Scott, Lord Jeffrey, Sir James Mackintosh T. JVoon Talfourd, J. O. Lockhart, William Oifford, Thomas Carlyle, Henry Hallam. The popularity of tne authors, and the extreme modera- tion of the price, recommend them To Heads of Families, for their children, as perfect mo- dels of style. To Managers of Book Societies, Book Clubs, &c. To School Inspectors, Schoolmasters, and Tutors, as suitable gifts as prizes, or adapted for School Libraries. Travellers on a Journey will find in these portable and cheap volumes something to read on the road, adapted to fill a corner in a portmanteau or carpet-bag. To Passengers on Board a Ship, here are ample materials in a narrow compass for whiling away the monotonous hours of a sea voyage. To Oflicers in the Army and Navy, and to all Economists in space or pocket, who, having limited chambers, and small book-shelves, desire to lay up for themselves a con- centrated Library, at a moderate expenditure. To all who have Friends in Distant Countries, as an ac- ceptable present to send out to them. The Modern Essayists will yield to the Settler in the Backwoods of America, the most valuable and interesting writings of all the most distinguished authors of our time, at less than one quarter the price they could be obtained in any other form. The Student and Lover of Literature at Home, who has hitherto been compelled to wade through volumes of Re- views for a single article, may now become possessed of every article worth reading, for little more than the cost of the annual subscription. The following is extracted from a very able article on Mr. Macaulay, by Mr. E. P. Whipple : " It is impossible to cast even a careless glance over the literature of the last thirty years, without perceiving the prominent station occupied by critics, reviewers and essay- ists. Criticism in the old days of Monthly Reviews and Gen- tlemen's Magazines, was quite an humble occupation, and was chiefly monopolized by the ' barren rascals" of letters, who scribbled, sinned and starved in attics and cellars ; but it has since been almost exalted into a creative an, and numbers among its professors some of the most accom- plished writers of the age. Dennis, Rhymer, Winstanley, Theophilus Cibber, Griffiths, and other 'eminent hands,' as well as the nameless contributors to defunct periodicals and deceased pamphlets, have departed, body and soul, and left not a wreck behind; and their places have been supplied by such men as Coleridge, Carlyle, Macaulay, Lamb, Haz- litt, Jeffrey, Wilson, Giftbrd, Mackintosh, Sydney Smith, Ilallam, Campbell, Talfourd and Brougham. Indeed every celebrated writer of the present century, without, it is be- lieved, a solitary exception, has dabbled or excelled in criti- cism. It has been the road to fame and profit, and has com- manded both applause and guineas, when the unfortunate objects of it have been blessed with neither. Many of the strongest minds of the age will leave no other record be- hind them, than critical essays and popular speeches. To those who have made criticism a business, it has led to success in other professions. The Edinburgh Review, which took the lead in the establishment of the new order of things, was projected in a lofty attic by two briefless barristers and a titheless parson ; the former are now lords, and the latter is a snug prebendary, rejoicing in the reputa- tion of being the finest wit and smartest divine of the age. That celebrated journal made reviewing more respectable than authorship. It was started at a time when the de- generacy of literature demanded a radical reform, and a sharp vein of criticism. Its contributors were men who possessed talents and information, and so far held a slight advantage over most of those they reviewed, who did not happen to possess either. Grub Street quarterly quaked to its foundations, as the northern comet shot its portentous glare into the dark alleys, where bathos and puerility buzzed and hived. The citizens of Brussels, on the night previous to Waterloo, were hardly more terror-struck than the vast array of fated authors who, every three months, waited the appearance of the baleful luminary, and, starting at every i sound which betokened its arrival, ' Whispered with white lips, the foe ! it comes ! it comes!' " In the early and palmy days of the Review, when re- viewers were wits and writers were hacks, the shore of the great ocean of books was ' heaped with the damned like pebbles.' Like an 'eagle in a dovecote,' it fluttered the leaves of the Minerva press, and stifled the weak notes of imbecile elegance, and the dull croak of insipid vulgarity, learned ignorance, and pompous humility. The descent of Attila on the Roman Empire was not a more awful visita- tion to the Italians, th;in the 'fell swoop' of the Edinburgh Review on the degenerate denizens of Grub Street and Pa- ternoster Row. It carried ruin and devastation wherever it went, and in most cases it carried those severe but pro- vidential dispensations to the right places, and made havoc consistent both with political and poetic justice. The Edin- burgh reviewers were found not to be of the old school of critics. They were not contented with the humble task of chronicling the appearance of books, and meekly condens- ing their weak contents for the edification of lazy heads ; but when they deigned to read and analyze the work they judged, they sought rather for opportunities to display their own wit and knowledge than to flatter the vanity of the author, or to increase his readers. Many of their most splendid articles were essays rather than reviews. The writer, whose work aftVtrded the name of the subject, was summarily disposed of in a quiet sneer, a terse sarcasm, or a faint iianegyric, and the remainder of the article hardly recognised his existence. It is to these purely original con- tributions, written by men of the first order of talent, that the Review owes most of its reputation." The North American Review remarks : " We have intimated our high opinion of the value of the essaysanddisquisitions with which British Periodical litera- ture is now so amply filled. An eminent publishing house in Philadelphia has very wisely undertaken to reprint these, and to give them a general circulation in the United States." CRITICAL AND MISCELLANEOUS WRITINGS of THOMAS BABINGTON MACAULAY. in one volume, with a finely engraved Portrait, ftrom ] an original picture by Henry Inman. CONTENTS. Milton, Machiavelli, Dryden, History, Hallam's Constitutional His- tory, Southey's Colloquies on So- ciety, Moore's Life of Byron, Southey's Bunyan's Pil- grim's Progress, Croker's Boswell's Life of Johnson, Lord Nugent's Memoirs of Hampden, Nares's Memoirs of Lord Burghley, Dumont's Recollections of Mirabeau, Lord Mahon's War of The Succession, Walpole's Letters to Sir H. Mann, Thackaray's History of Earl Chatham, Earl Chatham, 2d part. Lord Bacon, Mackintosh's History of the Revolution of England, Sir John Malcolm's Life of Lord Clive, Life and Writings of Sir W. Temple, Church and State, Ranke's History of the Popes, Cowley and Milton, Mitford's History of Greece, The Athenian Orators, Comic Dramatists of the Re- storation, Lord Holland, Warren Hastings, Frederic the Great, Lays of Ancient Rome, Madame D'Arblay, Addison, Bar6re's Memoirs, Montgomery's Poems, Civil Disabilities of the Jews, Mill on Government, Bentham's Defence of Mill, Utilitarian Theory of Go- vernment. A remittance of FIVE DOLLARS will pay for tUe ESSAYS of MACAUliAT, AlilSODT, SYDNEY SMITH, and PROFESSOR AVILSOIV, full boTUid in clotli and gilt. CAREY & HART'S NEW PUBLICATIONS. .There probably never waa a series of articles communi- cated to a periodical, which can challenge comparison with those of Macaulay, for artistic merit. They are character- ized by many of the qualities of heart and mind which stamp the productions of an Edinburgh reviewer ; but in the combination of various excellences they far excel the finest efforts of the class. As nimble and as concise in wit as Sydney Smith ; an eye quick to seize all those delicate refinements of lanpuaee and happy turns of expression, which charm us in Jeffrey ; displaying much of the impe- rious scorn, passionate strength and swelling diction of Brougham ; as brilliant and !is acute in critical dissection as Hazlitt, without the unsoundness of mind which disfi- gures the finest compositions of that remarkable nian ; at times evincing a critical judgment which would not dis- grace the stern gravity of Hallani, and a range of thought and knowledge which remind us of Mackinto.sh,— Macaulay seems to be the abstract and epitome of the whole journal, —seems the utmost that an Edinburgh reviewer "can come to." He delights every one— hi2h or low, intelligent or ignorant. His spice is of so keen a flavour that it tickles the coarsest palate. He has the unhesitating suffrages of men of taste, and the plaudits of the million. The man who has a common knowledge of the English language, and the scholar who has mastered its refinements, seem equally sensible to the charm of his diction. No matter how unpromising the subject on which he writes may ap- pear to the common eye, in his hands it is made pleasing. Statistics, history, biography, political economy, all suffer a transformation into "something rich and strange." Pro- saists are made to love poetry, tory politicians to sympa- thize with Hampden and Milton, and novel-readers to ob- tain some idea of Bacon and his philosophy. The won- derful clearness, point, and vigour of his style, send his thoughts right into every brain. Indeed, a person who is utterly insensible to the witchery of Macaulay's diction, must be eitjier a Yahoo or a beatified intelligence. CRITICAL AND MISCELLANEOUS WRITINGS of ARCHIBALD ALISON, Author of "The History of Europe," in one volume, 8vo, with a Portrait." Price $1.50. CONTENTS. Military Treason and Civic Soldiers, Mirabeau, Bulwer's Athens, The Reign of Terror, The French Revolution of 1830, The Fall of Turkey, The Spanish Revolution of 1820, Karamsin's Russia, Effects of the French Revo- lution of 1830, Desertion of Portugal, Wellington, Carlist Struggle in Spain, The Affghanistan Expedition, The Future, &c. &c. Chateaubriand, Napoleon, Bossuet, Poland, Madame de Stael, National Monuments, Marshal Ney, Robert Bruce, Paris in 1814, The Louvre in 1814, Tyrol, France in 1833, Italy, Scott, Campbell and Byron, Schools of Design, Lamartine, The Copyright Question, Michelet's France, Arnold's Rome, RECREATIONS OF CHRISTOPHER NORTH, (John Wil.son,) in one volume, 8vo, with a Portrait. Price One Dollar. THE WORKS OF THE REV. SYDNEY SMITH, in one volume, with a Portrait. Price One Dollar. CONTENTS. Mid-day, Sacred Poetry, Christopher in his Aviary, Dr. Kitchiner, Soliloquy on the Seasons, A Few Words on Thomson, The Snowball Bicker of Piedmont, Christmas Dreams, Our Winter Qiwrters, Stroll to Grassmere, L'Envoy. Christopher in his Sporting Jacket, A Tale of Expiation, Morning Monologue, The Field of Flowers, Cottages, An Hour'sTalkaboutPoetry, Inch Cruin, A Day at Windermere, The Moors, Highland Snow-Storm, The Holy Child, Our Parish, "And not less for that wonderful series of articles by Wilson, in Blackwood's Magazine— in their kind as truly amazing and as truly glorious as the romances of Scott or the poetry of Wordsworth. Far and wide and much as these papers have been admired, wherever the English language is read, I still question whether any one man has a just idea of them as a whole." — Extract from Howitfs " Rural Life." "The outpo\iring of a gifted, a tutored, and an exuberant mind, on men and manners — literature, science, and philo- sophy — and all embued by the peculiar phases of that mind, whether viewed in the "light of humour, wit, sentiment, pathos, fancy or imasination." — Literary Gazette. " A blaze of dazzling liL'ht which literally blinds us, while the tumult that its perusal causes within us, makes us per- fectly helpless.'' — Cambridge Chronicle. 2 Dr. Parr, Dr. Rennel, John Bowles, l)r Langford, Archdeacon Nares, Matthew Lewis, Australia, Fi^vce's Letters on England, Rdgeworth on Bulls, Trimmer and Lancaster, Parnell and Ireland, Methodism, Indian Missions, Catholics, Methodism, Hannah More, Professional Education, Female Education, Public Schools, Toleration, Charles Fox, Mad Quakers, America, Game Laws, Botany Bay, Chimney Sweepers, America, Ireland, Spring Guns, Observations on the Histori- cal Work of the Right Honourable Charles James Fox, Disturbances of Madras, Bishop of Lincoln's Charge, Madame d'Epinay, Poor Laws, Public Characters of 1801-2, Anastasius, Scarlett's Poor Bill, Memoirs of Captain Rock, Granby, Island of Ceylon, Delphine, Mission to Ashantee, Witman's Travels, Speech on Catholic Claims, Speech at the Taunton Re- form Meeting, Speech at Taunton at a Meet- ing to celebrate the Acces- sion of King William IV., Persecuting Bishops, Speech at Taunton in 1831 on the Reform Bill not being passed. Prisons, Prisons, Botany Bay, Game Laws, Cruel Treatment of untried Prisoners, America, Bentham on Fallacies, Waterton, Man Traps and Spring Guns, Hamilton's Method of teach- ing Languages, Counsel for Prisoners, Catholics, Neckar's Last Views, Catteau, Tableau des Etats Danois, Thoughts on the Residence of the Clergy, Travels from Palestine, Letter on the Curates' Salary Bill, Proceedings of the Society for the Suppression of Vice, Characters of Fox, Speech respectinir the Re- form Bill, The Ballot, First Letter to Archdeacon Singleton, Second Letter to Archdeacon Singleton, Third I,etter to Archdeacon Singleton, Letter on the Character of Sir James Mackintosh, Letter to Lord John Russell, Sermon on the Duties of the Queen, The Lawyer that tempted Christ : a Sermon, The Judge that smites con- trary to the Law : a Ser- mon, A letter to the Electors upon the Catholic Question, A Sermon on the Rules of Christian Charity, Peter Plymley's Letters. " Almost every thing he has written is so characteristic, that it would be difficult to attribute it to any other man. "The marked individual features and the rare combination of powers displayed in his works, give them a fascination unconnected with the subject of which he treats or the general correctness of his views. He sometimes hits the mark in the white, he sometimes misses it altogether ; for he by no means confines his pen to themes to which he is calculated to do justice ; but whether he hits or misses, he is always sparkling and delightful. The charm of his writings' is somewhat similar to that of Montaigne or Charles Lamb." — JVorth American Review. CRITICAL WRITINGS OF FRANCIS I JEFFRE"?, in one 8vo volume, with a Portrait. "It is a book not to be read only, but studied. It is a vast repertory, or rather a system or institute, embracing the whole circle of letters— if we except the exact sciences —and contains within itself, not in a desultory form, but in a well-digested scheme, more original conception, bold and fearless speculation and just reasoning on all kinds and varieties of subjects, than are to be found in any English writer with whom we are acquainted within the present or the last generation. .... His choice of words is unbounded, and his felicity of expression, to the most impalpable shade of discrimination, almost miraculous. Playful, lively, and full of illustration, no subject is so dull or so dry that he cannot invest it with interest, and none so trifling that it cannot acquire dignity and elegance from his pencil. Independent- ly, however, of mere style, and apart from the great variety of subjects embraced by his pen, the distinguishing feature of his writings, and that in which he excels bis contempo- rary reviewers, is the deep vein of practical thought which runs throughout them all."— JVortA British Review. CAREY &, HART'S NEW PUBLICATIONS CRITICAL WRITINGS OF T. NOON TALFOURD and JAMES STEPHEN, in one volume, 8vo. "His (Talfourd's) critical writings manifest in every page a sincere, earnest, and sympathizing love of intellec- tual excellence and moral beauty. The kindliness of tem- per and tenderness of sentiment with which they are ani- mated are continually suggesting pleasant thoughts of the author." — JVortli American Reciew. THE CRITICAL WRITINGS OF SIR WALTER SCOTT, complete in one volume, 8vo, with a Portrait. We have spent a whole day in the society of his mighty spirit, and felt no sensation of weariness ; we read till mid- night, and reluctantly laid the volumes aside in obedience to our pained and heavy eyelids. We were ill, but illness could not keep us away from the Magician ; for on the fol- lowing morning we were up with the — no, not the lark, but the milk-man, and again intent upon these treasures of in- struction and delight. We can master your ordinary two volume American novel in three hours, by a stop-watch ; but here we have only got through with these Miscellanies after three days' constant reading! Some of the papers we had read before; but what of that ■? They were none the less charming, — we should as soon think of getting wearied with the sight of a river, winding at its ovi^n sweet will.' " [JVeaj World. SIR JAMES MACKINTOSH'S CON- TRIBUTIONS TO THE EDINBURGH REVIEW. Collected and edited by his Son. In one volume, 8vo, with a Portrait. SELECTIONS FROM THE LONDON QUARTERLY REVIEW. Being the best articles that haye appeared in that able periodical, which numbers among its contributors, Southey, Wilson Croker, Lockhart, Hallam, GifTord, Heber, Milman, Scott, &c. &c. In one volume, 8vo, with a fine Portrait of J. G. Lock- hart. MODERN FRENCH ESSAYISTS. CAREY & HART will shortly publish the Modern French Essayists, consisting of the Critical and Historical writings of the most distinguished French authors of modern times. THE HISTORICAL ESSAYS, Published under the title of "Ten Years' Historical Studies, and Narratives of the Merovingian Era. or Scenes of the Sixth Century," by M. Augustin Thierry, author of "The Conquest of England by the Normans." Complete in one volume. "But those who wish to appreciate Thierry's powers must judge him, not by the 'Conquete,' but by his recent 'Recits dc Temps Merovivgiens,' in which we have a narra- tive uniting Walter Scott's liveliness of detail and dra- matic effect, with the observance of historical truth."— London Quarterly Review. "The ' Narrative of the Merovingian Era' is the produc- tion of the mature and practised hand of its author, it is essentially a work of art, though important ideas relative to the science of history are implied in it. As a portraiture of the sixth century, it is unequalled: it joins the pic- turesqueness, animation and exciting interest of a novel by Scott, to the minute tidelity of e.\haustive erudition."— British, and Foreign Review. HISTORICAL ESSAYS of M. Sismondi. 1 vol. 8vo, with a Portrait. MISCELLANEOUS WRITINGS of M. Michelet. 1vol. 8vo, with a Portrait. CRITICAL AND HISTORICAL ESSAYS, by M. de Cha- teaubriand. 1 vol. 8vo. HISTORICAL ESSAYS, by M. Girardin. HISTORY OF THE ANGLO-SAXONS, From the earliest period to the Norman Conquest. By Sharon Turner, author of " The Sacred History of the World." In two volumes, 8vo, cloth gilt. Price re- duced to $4.50. " This edition is an exact reprint of the London edition, and contains all the Saxon language, the type of which was cast expres.^ly for it. The French edition, of which a con- siderable number have been imported into this country, does not contain a single word of Saxon. — Boston Morning Post. POETS AND POETRY OF EUROPE, with Biographical Notices and Translations, from the earliest period to the present time, by Henry W. Longfellow. In one large 8vo volume, 750 pages. Illustrated. The above volume contains translations from the Anglo- Saxon, Icelandic, Swedish, Danish, Dutch, German, Polish. French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Sec. &c. POETS AND POETRY OF ENGLAND, In the Nineteenth Century, by Rufus W. Griswold. In one large Svo volume, with a splendid Portrait of Uvron in the Albanian costume, and other Illustra- tions. Price $3.50. This volume contains Biographical and Critical Notices of more than sixty writers, who have written in the present century; and besides liberal selections from Byron, Scott, Wordsworth, Shelley, Keats, Coleridge, Campbell, and others well known in America, contains the most admirable productions of Wilson, Landor, Barry Cornwall, Tennyson, Milnes, Hood, Barrett, and all the younger poets now at- tracting attention in England, and as yet unpublished in this country. With a great deal that is familiar, it undoubt- edly embraces as much that is new to the great mass of readers as any book of the season. POETS AND POETRY OF AMERICA, By R^ifus W. Griswold. Si.xth edition. In one volume, Svo, ivith Portraits of Dana, Bryant, Sprague, Halleck, and Lonjfellow, and many other beautiful Illustratione. Price S3. Of the Poets and Poetry of America, it is scarcely ne- cessary for the publishers to speak, as it has already passed into a Sixth Edition— Oi the Poets and Po|;try of Eng- land just issued, they may be allowed to state that it con- tains selections front the works of many delightful Poets but little known in this country, but who "only require to be known to be admired. The Volume by Mr. Longfellow will probably be the most interesting of the series, as it contains translations from all the distinguished Poets of TEN different countries, with a complete history of their litera- ture from the earliest times. CAREY & HART will shortly publish THE PROSE WRITERS of AMERICA and their Works, by Rufus W. Griswold, in one volume, Svo, with nume- rous portraits. THE PROSE WRITERS of GERMANY and their Works, by F. 11. Hedge, in one volume, 8vo, with Por- traits. THE PROSE WRITERS of ENGLAND, FRANCE, ITALY, &c., and their Works, in two volumes, Svo, with Portraits. Tliiers's History of the Frencli Revolution— Tlie Consulate and tlie Empire. HISTORYOFTHE FRENCH REVOLU- TION. By M. A. Thiers. In two large octavo volumes, of upward.* of 1800 pages. Price reduced to $1.25, being the cheapest book ever published. HISTORY OF THE CONSULATE AND THE EJIPIRE of NAPOLEON. By M. A. Thiers. Being the Completion of his History of the French Revo- lution, now publishing in Numbers at 12^ cents each, to be completed in ten' Numbers. A remittance of one dollar will pay for the complete work. SIR WALTER SCOTT'S COMPLETE WORKS, in 10 volumes, Svo, comprising The Waverley Novels, Lives of the Novelists, Life of Napoleon, Letters on Demonology and Poetical Works, Witchcraft, &c., And the Life of Scott, by Lockhart. THE HISTORY OF THE WAR IN THE PENINSULA, AND IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE, from the year 1S07 to the year 1814. By Col. W. F. P. Napier, C. B. Carefullv reprinted from the fourth edi- tion, and complete in four large Svo. volumes, "with fifty Plates of Plans of Battles," etc. Price reduced to $6.50. THE LIFE OF LORENZO DE MEDICI, Called the Magnificent. By William Roscoe, Esq. A new edition, in two volumes, Svo, with an Appendix and all the Notes in the original edition. Price reduced to $3.75. NOCTES AMBROSIANA OF BLACK- WOOD, complete in 4 large volumes. Price $4. 50. CAREY & HART'S NEW PUBLICATIONS. PATRICK, LOWTH AND WHITBY'S COMMENTARIES. Now ready, Num!)eis 40 and 11, Price 25 cents each, of T HE 11 O 1, Y 1! I li I. E, with Dishop Patrick's Commentary on tlie Historical, and Paraphrase of the Poetical Books of the Old 'IVs- tament. Bishop Lowth on the Prophets. Arnald on the Apocrypha. Whithy on the Gospels and Epistles, and Lownian on tlie Revelation. In the previous editions of this work, the Annotations were printed without the Text, thus rendcrinc; it a mere book of reference for the study ; ire this edition the text is placed at the head of each parre, thus adapting it for general use both in the Family and Closet. The work is well printed from new type on pood paper, and is in every respect equal if not superior to the English edition, and will be completed in sizty numbers, at ticentr/- five cents each. To those who may be unacquainted with the excellencies of this Commentary and Paraphrase, it may be necessary to state that Bishop Patiiick, whose commentary includes from Genesis to the Song of Solomon, is esteemed amon;; theo- logical writers, one of the most acute and sensible, and therefore useful illustrators of the Old Testament. "In his Exposition," says Dr. Wotton, in his Thoughts con- cerning the Study of Divinity, "there is great learning, and great variety," and what will save the reading of many volumes." Du. Lowth, the father of the well-known Bishop of Lon- don, completed the Old Testament, and is considered one of the most judicious Commentators on the Prophets. Few men were more deeply versed in critical learning, there being scarcely any author, Greek or Latin, profane or eccle- siastical, that Dr. Lowth hath not read, constantly accom- panying his reading with critical and philosophical re- marks; he adheres strictly to the literal meaning of the in- spired writer, and there is not a great appearance of criti- cism, but the original texts and all critical aids are closely studied by this most learned divine. Bishop Watson pro- nounced Lowth's to be the best commentary on the Prophets in the English language. Arn.^ld on the Apocrypha. — The Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament, though not a part of the inspired writings, contain much historical information, and are use- ful for illustrating the idiom of the New Testament. Ar- nald's is a Critical Commentary on such hooks of the Apo- crypha as are appointed to be read in churches. The work was originally published at different times, and is deserved- ly held in high estimation. Archbishop Cranmer, in the Preface to his Bible, says, "that men may read them (the Books of the Apocrypha) to the edifying of the people, but not to confirm and strengtlun the doctrines of the church." Dr. Whitdv on the Gospels and Epistle.s.— The Commentary on the New Testament is by Dr. Whitby, who, in the course of his work, exhibits labour and research worthy of the subject. Few men have brought a larger portion of sagacity, and a larger measure of appropriate learning, on the Interpretatiofi of Scripture. His know- ledge of the Bible itself was thorough and complete, and his acquaintance with the writings of the fathers and of modern interpreters was profound. On a dillicult text or expression, the reader will seldom consult him in vain. Dr. Adam Clarke, in the learned Preface to his Commentary, says, "The best comment on the New Testament, taken in all points of view, is certainly that of Whitby. He has done all that should be done ; he is learned, argumentative, and thoroughly orthodox." Low.MAN ON the REVELATION.— Bishop Tomliue in- cludes this work in his List of Books for Clergymen and Biblical Students. Dr. Doddridge has said of it, that he "has received more satisfaction from it, with respect to many difficulties, than he ever found elsewhere, or expected to find at all." Lowman's scheme of the Seven Seals is also approved by the late Rev. David Simpson, in his Key to the Prophecies. (O- The reader will thus see, from the authorities cited in this brief view, that the learned writings of Patrick, Lowth, Arnald, Whitby and Lowman, form a perfect and invaluable series of Enirlish Commentaries on the Old and New Tes- taments, and on the books of the Apocrypha. THE WORKS OF LORD BACON, With a Memoir, and a Translation of his Latin Writ- ings, by Basil Montagu, Esq., in three volumes, Svo. Price reduced to §7.50. The American edition of the works of Lord Bacon now offered to the public, is reprinted from the most approved English edition, that of Basil Montagu, Esq.. which has re- cently issued from the celebrated press of Pickering, (the modern Aldus,) in seventeen octavo volumes. It contains the complete works of the illustrious philosopher, those in iMtin being translated into English. In order to render the publication cheap, and therefore attainable by all our pub- lic and social libraries, as well as by those general readers who study economy, the seventeen octavo volumes have been comprised in three volumes, imperial octavo. THE AMERICAN FARMER'S ENCY- CLOP.l^Dl A.:in(l DICTIONARY of UllKAL AFFAIRS, emiiraciug all the- recMit dl.sc()\'erii;s in .Agricultural Chemistry. By Cuthbert W. Johnson. EnlariTd, im- proved, aiid adapted to the TJiiiled States, by fJoverneur Emerson. This invaluable work is now cojiipleted in one splendid royal octavo volume, of upwards of 1150 closely printed pages, with .=oveiiteen iienulifully exe- cuted Plates of Cattle, Agricultural !mplempnl.«. Varie- ties of Grasses. Destructive Insects, &c., and numerous Wood-cuts. Price, well bound in leather, only .$4.00. "For the product, manner of cultivation, and value of these, I refer you to the Journals already mentioned, as well as to a work recently published, which I take pleasure in reconnncnding as a School Book and suitable iireminm to be given by Agricultural Societies— The Fauimkh's Encv- CLOP/EDIA, by Cuthbert W. Johnson, adiipted to the United Slates by Governeur Emerson — a work with which, on examination, 1 am so well impressed as to consider it enti- tled to an easily accessible place in the library of every enlightened agriculturist. In that work it is stated that an acre of cranberries, in full bearing, will produce 200 bu.'iheis, and the price is seldom less than $'1.50 per bushel, and sometimes double that." — Extract from an address de- livered by J. S. Skinner, Esq. The only Complete Frencli Dictionary. A NEW AND COMPLETE FRENCH AND ENGLISH, AND ENGLISH AND FRENCH DICTIONARY, on the basis of The Royal Dictionary, English and French, and French and English, compiled from the Dictionaries of Johnson, Todd, Ash, Webster, and Crabbe. From the last edition of Chambaud, Garner, and J. Descarrieres, the sixth edition of the Academy, the supplement to the Academy, the Gram- matical Dictionary of Laveaux, the Universal Lexicon of Boiste, and the Standard Technological Works in cither Language. By Professors Fleming and Tibbins. With complete Tables of the Verba, on an entirely new Plan. By Charles Picot, Esq. To the whole are added, in their respective places, a vast number of terms in Natural Science, &c., &c., &c., which are not to be found in any other French and Eni'lish Dictionary. In one splendid royal octavo volume, 1376 pages. Prica .S4.00. Well bound in leather. LORD BOLINGBROKE'S WORKS, Complete, with a Life, prepared expressly for this edi- tion, containing recent information relative to his per- sonal and political character, selected from the best authorities. In four volumes, Svo, printed on large type. Cheap edition, price reduced to $i, done up in piper covers. Carey & Hart also publish a fine edition in 4 volumes, cloth gilt, which has been reduced to $(5. A NEW AND GREATLY IMPROVED EDITION OF THE UNIVERSAL ATLAS, By Henry S. Tanner, containing 72 superbly engraved Maps, imperial quarto size, elegantly and accurately coloured : comprising all the recent Canal and Railroad Improvements throughout the United States. Price reduced to $14.00, bound in full clo'th, leather backs. This edition has undergone a complete revision by its able author, within the last three months, and the publish- ers can safely pronounce it not only the most splendid, but the most accurate and complete jltlas that has ever appeared in this, or in fact in any, country. Mr. Tanner's reputation as a Geographer is so well esta- blished, that it is unnecessary to say any thing in his praise ; but the publishers cannot refrain from stating, that in this, his latest work, he has produced one that reflects on him the highest honour. RURAL LIFE OF ENGLAND. By William Ilowitt, author of "Visits to Remarkable Places," In one vol. Svo. Price reduced to $2.00. — with a finely engraved Frontispiece. STUDENT LIFE OF GERMANY. By William Howitt, author of " The Rural life of Eng- land," "Book of the Seasons," &c. Containing nearly forty of the most famous Student Songs. Beau- tifully printed in one volume, Svo. Price reduced to •SI. 50. VISITS TO REMARKABLE PLACES, Old Halls, Battle-Fields, and scenes illustrative of striking Passages in English History and Poetry. By William Ilowitt. In two volumes, 900 pages, Svo, beau- tifully printed on fine paper, cloth gilt, §3.00. A TOUR IN THE EAST, THE HOLY LAND, &c. By E. Joy Morris. In two volumes, 12mo, with Engravings. Price $1.50. CAREY & HART'S NEW PUBLICATIONS. THE WAVERLEY NOVELS COMPLETE FOR $2.50. 3340 Pages for Two Dollars and a half. CAREY & HART, will shortly publish a new edilion ot The Waverloy Novels, by Sir Walter Scott, with all the author's btest notes and adilitioiis, complete, without the slightest abridgment, in jive royal Svo volumes, up- wards of 650 pages in each volume, for two dollars and a half. Waverley, St. Ronan's Well, Guv Mannerine, Red?auntlet, The Antiquarv, The Betrothed. Rob Roy, The Talisman, Black Dwarf, Woodstock, Old Mortality, The Highland Widow, Heart of Mid-Lothian, Two Drovers, Bride of Lammernioor, My Aunt Margaret's Mirror. 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In no other way can the same amount of amusement and instruction be obtained for ten times the money, for the Waverley Novels alone form a Library. The publishers wish it to he distinctly understood, that, while the price is so greatly reduced, the work is in no way abridged, but is carefully printed from, and contains EVEUy WORD IN, THE LAST EDINBURGH EDITION, in forty- eight volumes, which sells for seventy-two dollars. Now is the time to b\iy ! Such an opportunily may never again occur. Let every one, then, who wants a set of the Waverley JVovels for two dollars and a half, now purchase, for ifthe publishers do not lind the sale greatly incrensed, by the immense red\iction in price, they will resume the old price of twenty-five cents for each Novel, which was con- sidered wonderfully cheap. THE LIFE OF LORD ELDON. With Selections from his Correspondence. By Horace Twiss, Esq., Q. C. In two volumes, Svo, 850 pages. Cloth gilt. Price S3.50. "The Life of Lord Eldon is an important addition to pub- lic biography. Written by a lawyer, it has the advantage of professional knowledge — by a man of a certain expe- rience in public and even in official life, it exhibits that practical knowledge of affairs which nothing but a practice can gain. The three volumes exhibit a research which does much credit to the intelligence and industry of Mr. Twiss, their author. They abound in capital anecdotes, but few of which we have been able to give — possess pas- sages of very effective writing — and form a work which ought to be in the library of every lawyer, statesman, and English gentleman." — Blackwood's Magazine, .^Siigust, 1814. LIFE AND TIMES OF RICHARD III. By Caroline A. Halsted. In one volume, Svo. Price $1.50. "Miss Halsted deserves great credit for her laborious at- tempt to vindicate Richard's character, and for the patient care with which she has sought out and marshalled her authorities. Although we may not believe Richard to have been quite so blameless as she attempts to prove him, we willingly allow that his real character inas widely different from that which tradition and Tudor history hare assigned to him. — London Athenaium. The Burney Papers. DIARY AND LETTERS OF MADAME D'ARBLAY. "This publication will take its place in the libraries be- side Walpole and Boswell." — Literary Oaiette. "A work unequalled in literary and social value by any thing else of a similar kind in the language."— AOiijai and Military Oazette. GEORGE SELWYN AND HIS CON- TEMPORARIES. By G. Heneage Jesse. In one volume, Svo. In this volume will be found letters from the famous Lord March, Lord Carlisle, Lord Holland. Charles James Fox, General Fitzpatrick, Lord Chesterfield, Lord Town- send, Madame Du Deffand, Lady Di Beauclerk, Horace Walpole, The Gunnings, &c. &c. «fcc. A TREATISE ON THE LAW OF NISI PRIUS, EVIDENCE in CIVIL ACTIONS, and AR- BITRATIONS and AWARDS. By A. J. Stephens, Esq., Barrister at Law. With Notes and References to American Decisions, by George Sharswood. In three royal Svo volumes, containing upwards of 3000 pages. Price only §15, well bound. It is believed that this will be found a far more complete and comprehensive work on the subject than any in exist- ence. The following is the preface. — The object of these piges is to supply the legal profession with a Practical Treatise, not only upon the Law of Nisi Prius, but also upon the subjects of Evidence in Civil Actions, and Arbi- tration and Award. Chancellor Kent, in a letter to the publishers, remarks : "1 have run over the principal articles in tlie two vol- umes, and I think the work is ably, judiciously, and, indeed, admirably digested and e.xecuted. I do not know of any work on Nisi Prius Law equal to it, and I am sure it must meet with the universal use and patronage of the profes- sion. It is printed in fine style, both as to paper and type, and does credit to your enterprise and taste." THOMAS'S COKE. A systematic arrangement of Lord Coke's First In- .STITUTE OF THE LaWS OF ENGLAND, On the plan of Sir Matthew Hale's Analysis ; with the annotations of Mr. Hargrave, Lord Chief Justice Hale, and Lord Chancellor Nottingham, and a new series of Notes and References to the present time, by J. H. Thomas. Se- cond American from the last London edition. To which are added Notes of Charles Butler, Esq. Three volumes Svo. APPROVED BOOKS FOR FAMILIES AND SCHOOLS, In Course of Publication lay Carey &. Hart. The following Works are issued in London under the di rection of the Committee of General Literature and Education of the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge, and adapted to this country by an eminent Literary Gentleman. OUTLINES OF THE HISTORY OF ENGLAND. By G. riogarth. With Numerous Cuts and Questions for the use of Scholars. 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