64 own satisfaction and entertainment. "Well, but, Sir-" says the public you have undertaken to discharge a great public duty, and you have no right to grumble about the doing of it." "That is true, so here goes ager. It seemed like it would never come daylight, and of orthodox morality. Mr. Ward, we fear, has smugI do believe if I didn't love Miss Mary so powerful Igling proclivities. In the chapter which describes would froze to deth; for my hart was the only spot that the Journey from London to Paris," occurs this felt warm, and it didn't beat more'n two licks a minit, only when I thought how she would be sprized in the passage, very characteristic of the writer. He has to subinit to what he considers an unjust exaction of mornin, and then it went in a canter. Bimeby the cusEvery one of the seven tales in this volume de-sed old dog come up on the porch and begun to smell four shillings, and having counted out the money, scribed at the head of this article have we read, about the bag, and then he barked like he thought says to the official, "You and your government and with every one of them are we well pleased: he'd treed something. "Bow! wow! wow!" ses he. should be indicted, first for such wretched accommo"strictly speaking,however, there are but five tales;" Then he'd smell again, and try to git up to the bag. dations upon such a thoroughfare, and next for your for Master" Julius" is like three "single gentlemen "Git out!" ses I, very low, for fear they would hear gross imposition!' If her majesty's servant was not me. "Bow! wow! wow!" ses he. "Be gone! you rolled into one," or one into three-although in his bominable fool," ses I, and I felt all over in spots, for I cut by what I said, it was not my fault; I put on table of contents the Editor separates Julius into three distinct divisions: 1st, Julius, or the two Prisoners; 2nd, Julius, or the Library of My Uncle;" 3rd, "Julius, or the Attic." ture. This volume may better be called a "Collection" than a "translation;" for all the tales save the second have previously appeared in English, which the Editor very properly acknowledges in his preface. Those tales are collected from Zschokke and Toppfer-names well known in light German litera We say light, although few things German can be called light-for even German sentiment is serious. Such seriousness, however, as may be found in these tales, is commendable-there is very a sentiment of pure christian love pervading them. If we have an objection at all to them, it is the prevalence of "dreams" throughout them all. What 'Vin Ordinaire" is to the Frenchman-Beer to the Englishman-and Tobacco to the American-is dreams to the German. His life, his love, his patriotism, his literature is-dreams. Redolent of spected every minit he'd nip me, and what made it They get him out in the morning covered with where he counsels the ladies: Let the ladys but take the right stand and they can marry a drunkard, who's gwine to drink licker? If bring every thing strate in no time. If they won't they won't keep company with squirts and dandies, dreams is he from his "Vrow" to his "Vaterland." who's gwine to make a monkey of himself? If they is Hence the German character is inherently poetical, republican in ther principles and sentiments, who's mystical, superstitious, withal genial and kind. gwine to put on airs and try to be aristocrats? If they These tales afford much insight into the popular thinks more of a good character than they does of thought of the people with whom they are popular. riches, who's gwine to sell his character for money? If To our mind the sweetest of the stories is "The they upholds virtue, who's gwine to practice vice? If Poor Vicar," by Zschokke. It is an exquisite piece-ligion? This is the proper field for the exercise of witthey is pious, who's gwine to dare to make game of reof work, and yet nothing more than an amplifica- min's influence. Directed in this way it will not only tion of the slight story on which Goldsmith is sup- secure the permanent prosperity of ther country, but posed to have founded his Vicar of Wakefield. In ther own happiness in ther domestic relations in this Julius we have an excellent sketch of the dreamy life, and everlastin blessins in the world to come. life of an enthusiastic German artist from boyhood to marriage, rendered with great skill. All the characters introduced, except the "Prisoner" and the "Teacher," are loveable, especially so the dear old "uncle" of Julius. The Parsonage teaches a noble lesson of Christian charity. In Walpurgis Night an excellent moral is inculcated through a "dream." The Beau is a pretty love story. From it we shall make one extract descriptive of the most rapturous rapture of a first kiss than we can recollect ever meeting, not even excepting Alexander Smith's. Such of our readers as are within the "Magic Circle," may be able to appreciate this description of A FIRST KISS. "Am I really dear to you, Sophia?" I whispered, and pressed my burning lips to her rosy mouth. She did not say yes, she did not say no, but she returned my kiss, and the earth went from under my feet; my soul was no longer in the body; I touched the stars; I knew the happiness of the seraphim." Let it be clearly understood that this is all German to us! Major Jones's Courtship. Philadelphia: T. B. Peterson, Many smart things are said under the guise of awkward sentences and bad spelling. The humor is of the broadest, but has something sterling in it, for it brings out the laugh. Too bashful to "pop the question" in the usual way, Major Jones persuades his sweetheart to put up a stocking, which will hold a couple of bushels, on the night when Santa Claus pays his visits, receiving her promise to keep for ever what he gave her. She complies by hanging up the meal bag. Into this the gallant and lovelorn Major contrives to introduce himself at the witching hour of night." But we will let Major Jones speak for himself. I sot up till mid-night, and when they was all gone to bed I went softly into the back gate, and went up to the porch, and thar, shore enuff, was a grate big mealbag hanging to the jice. It was monstrous unhandy to git to it, but I was tarmined not to back out. So I sot some chairs on top of a bench and got hold of the rope and let myself down into the bag; but jest as I was gittin in, the bag swung again the chairs, and down they went with a terrible racket. But nobody didn't wake up but old Miss Stallinses grate big cur dog, and here he cum rippin and tarin through the yard like rath, and round and round he went tryin to find what was the matter. I sot down in the bag and didn't breathe louder nor a kitten, for fear he'd find me out, and after a while he quit barkin. The wind begun to blow bominable cold, and the old bag kept turnin round and swinging so it made me sea-sick as the mischief. I was fraid to move for fear the rope would brake and let me tall, and thar I sot with my teeth ratlin like I had a Summer Vacation Abroad; or, Notes of a Visit to Erastus Darrow & Brother. my sentences the keenest edge I could." This threat of indicting the English Government for a tax of four shillings was rather severe. There are some errors which may belong to the proof reader, such as spelling capital, capitol, and especially this extraor dinary violation of the French orthography-“chœuf d'ouvre." BOOK NOTICES. The Adventures of my Cousin Smooth. By Timothy It is evident that My Cousin Smooth is a supposed representative of Young America. Who or what Timothy Templeton is, we know not; but notwithstanding his mistaken for the chronicler of the sayings and doings apparent desire to the contrary, he will never be of Mr. Samuel Slick, nor yet for the redoubtable J. Downing, Esq. The conception of the book as a whole, and of its various parts, is excellent. It fails It undertakes to be a generally in the execution. satirical review of our politics and politicians-the machinery being a travelling Yankee, who makes observations. The Yankee starts from Cape Codgoes to Washington, and thence around the world, stopping at London, Ostend, etc. for a book of this kind, the very best of mere good writing could do nothing: good writing would be (and is) thrown away upon it. It wants humor, of which the author has little, and wit of which he has less. In going through the whole book, over two hundred pages, we have not marked a jest as worth transcribing. One of the Quarterlies said lately of the old court jesters that "their impertinence was often itself the joke"-so here it seems to be thought a sufficient piece of fun to introduce names in a ridiculous connection, without the endeavor at a good or keen remark. Perhaps we should be grateful for this; for when Timothy does attempt to be lively or severe, it has a most depressing effect upon the reader. We know of but one or two men in the country, capable of writing a well-sustained "funny" book, up to the original conception of this. We notice with pleasure the admirable maner in It is one of the most which the volume is got up. neatly printed books we have seen this season. The Three Marriages, or Life at a Watering Place. By There During the summer of 1854, the author, a clergyman, visited the various countries mentioned in the above title for the double purpose of observation and health. His congregation with a graceful and considerate courtesy contributed the expenses of the tour, and on his return, the contents of this volume were communicated in a course of lectures. Afterwards, at the solicitation of a committee, the author consented to their publication. The book is thus relieved from any charge of presumption, which under other circumstances, might possibly be urged against it. To many people it will be pleasant and not uninstructive reading, though it is by no means original, and partakes too much of the character of a guide book, from which class, as well as from the narratives of other travelers, a great portion of its matter is derived. As a literary effort "Summer often carelessly and generally inelegantly writVacation abroad" is by no means successful; it is ten. We have not been able to obtain any addi tional information to that already possessed, and find but little to interest in the traveler's account of his personal experience. There are a few chapters upon which, in the preface, he lays some stress; such as "Christ's Hospital," "Commencement Day at Oxford," "Sydenham Palace," &c., but which contain nothing new, and at the best, are very superficial. It may not be improper to acknowledge surprise at some expressions which occur in a chapter on the by a clergyman who is expected to be unobjection"Custom House," particularly as they are uttered able in respect of minor morals. On page 27, speaking of the custom house officers, he says, "to be obliged to act the polite to one whose only claim upon your distant respect is the badge upon his hat or coat, is bad enough." We had thought that it was a pleasure to all gentlemen to be polite to any one. Drawing a pleasant contrast to the custom house regulations of England and France, by a reference to the usage in Italy, he says with much naïveté, "for beyond the Mediterrancan a small fee (not regarded This is the fourth of "Simms' Border Romances as bribery in that region) will release you from the of the South," which Mr. Redfield is issuing. The harpy's fangs, which is not the case in the Empire high position which Mr. Simms deservedly holds as a of Napoleon, and far less possible in honest Britain." writer of fiction, is so well established, that we shall Mr. Ward has little repugnance to the malum prohib-refrain from any criticism of the present work. It tum, to escape the penalties attached to the violation of which we fear he might possibly commit the malum in se. There is a singular simplicity in the passage quoted, almost sufficient to excuse its want This, as a portion of the title indicates, is a picthe contrary, be a very correct one; if it be, we ture of society, and it may, for aught we know to cannot envy the Welsh. The Watering-place is in Wales, and the people appear to be Finns. is, however, a life-like manner of telling things, that puts the reader quite at home. The opening of the book is particularly good, both as an opening, and in point of execution. There is one fault, which is chronic, and affects the whole fiction: the story turns upon one person passing himself off for another -a thing so old that it was objected to very shortly after Rome was built. Despite this, the story is not given for withholding their entire assent to its probimpossible, though the more incredulous will be forability. It is well handled, and brought to a denouement reasonably powerful. There is much good writing, and what is better, some good think ing. Charlemont; or, The Pride of the Village. A Tale of Kentucky. By W. GILMORE SIMMS. New York: Redfield. 1856. has, in a great degree, that continued dramatic interest which distinguishes this series of romances. Those who desire to possess the prose works of Mr. Simms, will find in Mr. Redfield's publications, au ex cellence of typography and general getting up, which will add not a little to the pleasure of perusal. Pictorial Life and Adventures of Grace O'Malley. By William H. Maxwell. Philadelphia: T. B. Peterson. 1856. The subject of this romance, Grace O'Malley, is thus introduced. "This singular woman, for many years, exercised a despotic sovereignty over a large portion of the north-western coast. Her existence is well authenticated by historians; and her visit to the court of Elizabeth, her predatory habits and perilous exploits, form yet the theme of ballads, and the subject of the wildest legends of the Irish peasantry. The ruins of her places of strength, in the island and on the main, are numerous; and the castles of Clare Island, Kildamnit, Carrig-a-howla, and Doona, still standing, prove that the possessions and power of this wild personage were once considerable." Upon this basis has been constructed with much skill, a story which will be of general interest to the novel reader. The Stable Book; Being a Treatise on the Management of Horses, in relation to Stabling, Grooming, Feeding, Watering and Working. Construction of Stables, Ventilation, Stable Appendages, Management of the Feet. Management of diseased and defective Horses. By JOHN STEWART, Veterinary Surgeon, Professor of Veterinary Medicine, in the Andersonian University, Glasgow. With Notes and Additions, adapting it to American Food and Climate. By A. B. Allen, Editor of the American Agriculturist. The American Cattle Doctor; containing the Necessary Information for preserving the Health, and curing the Diseases of Oxen, Cows, Sheep, and Swine, with a great variety of original Recipes, and valuable information in reference to Farm and Dairy management; whereby every man can be his own Cattle Doctor. The principles taught in this work are, that all medication shall be subservient to nature; that all Medicinal agents must be sanative in their operation, and administered with a view of aiding the vital powers, instead of depressing, as heretofore, with the lancet and poison. By G. H. DADD, M.D., Veterinary Practitioner, author of "Anatomy and Phyiology of the Horse," New York: C. M. Saxton & Co. 1856. It may be regarded as an evidence of the interest which the "noble animal" excites in man, that we, who have not the most remote or contingent property in a horse, should have read the greater portion of the first-mentioned volume. Should "circumstances permit," we feel a confidence in our ability to, at least, superintend the care of any quadrupedal estate. The circulation of this class of books must be of very great service, and we feel assured that every owner of a horse will be amply repaid for the cost of the "Stable Book," and every farmer will be under obligations to the "Cattle Doctor." By means of the former, one can obtain a great variety of valuable information, sufficient to enable him to know what ought to be done, though it may not give him skill to do it. Especially is it essential to gentlemen who keep horses and employ stable men. The Economy of Food; or What shall we Eat. Being useful lessons for Rich and Poor, including the Story of One Dime a Day. Showing How "Twas Earned; and how "Twas spent; and How five mouths it fed. By Solon Robinson, of the New York Tribune Office. New York: Fowlers & Wells. 1856. We have read that about the close of the Revolution, Patrick Henry ridiculed a Tory somewhat strongly for the cry of" Beef, Beef,"-but beef is something-a watchword worth while. And after having heard it, who would tolerate Beans-even when recommended by "the sweet voices of the wise men." But nevertheless, insignificant as beans seem, if this pamphlet circulates, and is read, beans will appreciate; beans will go up. In order to get a mess, it will become necessary that our dime be a diamond-wherefore we cannot entirely endorse the judgment of Horace Greely, that this book will "do good," but we hope it may. Harpers' New Monthly Magazine. March. An excellent number. It contains many papers, among the most interesting of which are "The Juniata" by T. Addison Richards; and "Commodore Perry's Expedition to Japan." "The Story of the Whale" is not only admirably illustrated, but told in a delightful manner, abounding with anecdote. "Little Dorrit" is, in this part, deficient in continuous interest, but of great power. "The Circumlocution office" is one of Dicken's keenest satires, if so accurate a description may be thus designated. Its lesson should not be lost upon us, among whom evident application. My Neighbor's Story" by Mrs. King, author of "Lily," is of the hysterical sort, and not very good at that. Among the best of the short sketches we have seen of late The engravings are prois "The Terrible Tree." fuse, various, and well executed. it has an NEW YORK, SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1856. Mr. Frederick Parker, Nos. 50 and 52 Cornhill, is our agent in Boston. In Philadelphia the CRITERION may be obtained of T. B. Pugh, 205 Chestnut; W. B. Zieber, 44 South Third; and G. C. Drovin, 38 South Third. MEN OF LETTERS, by taking the CRITERION will obtain all intelligence concerning the PUBLISHING OF BOOKS: the CONTEMPLATED ISSUES OF NEW WORKS, and all the GOSSIP RELATING TO LITERARY MEN AND MATTERS. LIBRARIES AND LITERARY ASSOCIATIONS, will find a weekly list of all NEW PUBLICATIONS in AMERICA and EUROPE, with their prices, and much valuable information connected with similar organiza tions. are referred to the Department of NOTES AND HISTORICAL SOCIETIES AND ANTIQUARIANS, QUERIES which contains many items of interest, and affords them a medium of communicating with each other. FAMILIES will find a large quantity and great variety of entertaining matter. The REVIEWS give the CREAM of all NEW BOOKS, and are intended to have an interest within themselves independent of their critical will be found ENTERTAINING SELECTIONS from POPULAR observations. In the Departinent of MISCELLANEA PERIODICALS, and books not yet issued in America, with occasional TRANSLATIONS as well as ORIGINAL POEMS of a high order. It is believed that when once the CRITERION has become familiarized, and its precise character understood, it will be esteemed one of the pleasantest family papers published in the country. PARENTS AND TEACHERS are deeply concerned in the success of this journal. Aside from its direct interest to themselves, it has claims which deserve their consideration. The design of this paper is to cultivate and refine literary taste; it will give the results of the careful examination by competent critics of all important current publications, and will pay par ticular attention to the principles contained." Thus parents and teachers will be enabled to recommend meritorious works to, and prevent the reading of pernicious ones by, their children or pupils. The importance of such a journal as the CRITERION to youth cannot be over-estimated, and no parent or teacher should neglect to weigh its importance as an EDUCATOR. IN THE World. The CRITERION is the only FAMILY LITERARY AND CRITICAL JOURNAL IN AMERICA. It has already acquired a very high reputation and, with the encouragement of the public, it shall take rank among the FIRST JOURNALS The support of all the lovers of literature; of all who desire to see the taste of the country elevated and refined, and who would raise some check to the flood of trash continually pouring over the land; of all who wish to see America take that position in literature which she already occupies in many branches of art, is earnestly solicited. Py, $3. TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION per annum, single coThree copies, $8. Four copies, $10. Ten copies, $20. Payable in advance. Subscriptions received at the above rates for any term less than a year. Specimen copies sent on application. CHARLES R. RODE, New York. By a neglect, which we hope will not again happen, the article in our last week's Miscellanea, "Hotel Helotry," was not credited, as it should have been, to Chambers's Journal. We endeavor to give the proper credit, not only to every article, but to every separate paragraph which we extract, though, in the case of many floating items, it is almost impossible to do so. To those excellent journals-Chambers's Journal, Household Words, the London Publishers' Circular, Athenæum, Critic, Literary Gazette, Leader, Spectator, &c., we are under obligations for much of our foreign selections. The literature of America does not afford any considerable proportion of those items which are weekly collected in our Literary Gossip. But, as the CRITERION becomes more widely known, it will, we have reason to hope, be a medium for all intelligence connected with letters in America, and we invite the cooperation of literary men, and publishers, for that purpose. We shall assiduously strive to increase the interest and usefulness of this journal, which, in many respects, we are well aware, is capable of improvement. For such present deficiencies as our readers may detect, we beg their indulgence, assuring them that we will devote our best, our whole energies, to make the CRITERION worthy of the country and of literature. TO CORRESPONDENTS. An anonymous correspondent sends us the following description of a "Moonlight at Sea," which he finds in an “old book of poetry, published in London, in 1791," describing it as the production of an old man whose name is now almost forgotten." We do not entertain as high an opinion of this passage, or of the school to which it belongs, as our correspondent seems to, and cannot regard the age as particularly ungrateful to this “ old man." The lines are very fair examples of that artificial rule and line style, which would have been beyond all praise if mathematics had been poetry. "Meanwhile, the rising moon, serenely bright, With imitated radiance seems to glow." A correspondent, signing himself "Clive," only expresses, we ration of our learned cotemporary, the Publishers' Circular, he presume, a very general opinion, when, speaking of the latest inspi says that "the writer of that article, by some mistake in the order of things, was born a century too late." We quite agree with "Clive" in all of his excellently expressed views, but must decline publishing his communication for the reason that it is scarcely possible to seriously answer such extravagant absurdity as that of the Circular without appearing ridiculous, We too read the article, and we shall have it mentioned upon our tombstone; we found the “epithets sweetly varied," and finished with the fine reflection, "How fearfully and wonderfully are we made!" LITERARY INTELLIGENCE. DOMESTIC. During the past month we have received the announcement of no important work. The list of books promised, but not published, is very large, and constantly increasing, and we are obliged to presume that a great many have been abandoned. We hope, before long, to inquire into the relative proportions of reprint and original books published in America. HOPKINS, BRIDGMAN & Co., Northampton, Mass., will publish next week, "A Question Book on the Lives of the Patriarchs," designed for Sabbath schools and Bible classes, by John Todd, D. D.; and are preparing new editions of "Truth made Simple," and "The Sabbath School Teacher." We are gratified to learn that the " Geology of Massachusetts," by Pres. Edward Hitchcock, D. D., LL.D., has met with a large sale; there are less than fifty copies of the edition unsold. 46 HAYES & ZELL, Philadelphia, have sent us announcements of a New English Grammar," by J. H. Brown and Prof. P. W. Gengembre; and Notes taken during the Expedition through Unexplored Texas." WILEY & HALSTED, New York, have in press, "Ruskin's Modern Painters," vol. 3, with plates, uniform with previous volumes; "Moseley's Mechanics and Engineering," edited, with additions, by Prof. D. H. Mahan, of West Point; "Relatives of Leila Ada," by the author of " Leila Ada; "Downing's Fruit and Fruit Trees," new edition; "Parsons on the Rose," new edition, with additions. FOREIGN. From the London Publishers' Circular. Feburary 1, 1846. The new works recently issued, or in course of publication, are many and interesting. Among them we may mention the following:-The Third Volume of Burton's Meccah;" Dr. Sandwith's "Narrative of the Capture of Kars" (ready on Monday next); "Recollections of the Table-Talk of the late Samuel Rogers;" and Dr. Doran's " Knights and Days of Chivalry," post 8vo. (will appear in a few days); "The Letters of James Boswell," with notes and illustrations, post 8vo.; "The Art of Reasoning," by the Rev. R. Kidd; "The Philosophy of; Discourse," by George Edmonds, one large vol. 4to. "Hours with the Mystics," by R. A. Vaughan 2 vols. fep. 8vo.; a Supplemental Volume to Waagen's Treasures of Art in Great Britain;" Elucidation of the Laws of Copy-right," by D. K. Blaine, 8vo.; "Notices of the Lives and Works of the Early Flemish Painters," by J. A. Crowe and G. B. Cavalcaselle, with woodcuts, post 8vo.; Shakspeare's England," by G. W. Thornbury, 2 vols. crown 8vo., are all in active preparation; Mr. Bohn's new volume of the Classical Library for the present month includes Translations of Hesiod, Callimachus, and Theognis, by the Rev. J. Banks; a fourth edition of Addison's "Law of Contracts will be ready on the 7th inst.: "The Rifle, its Effects on the War," by John Le Couteur; "The Poet's Souvenir of Amateur Artists," by Rose Ellen Temple, 1 vol.; "Lettres à George Bowyer, Esq., M. P., de El'tat des Choses à Naples et en Italie," par Jules Goudon; "The Merchant's Daughter of Toulon," a new play, by Mrs. Edward Thomas; "Influence of Occupation on Health and Life," by Joel Pinney, 8vo.; "The Paper Currency of England dispassionately considered," by John Haslam, are all announcements in the press; Fallacies about the Aristocracy," by Alexander Somerville, preparing for publication, in 1 vol.: the concluding section of Dr. Todd's "Physiological Anatomy and Physiology of Man" is nearly ready; a new and improved edition of Lardner's Handbook of Optics" will be ready in a few days; and Milue-Edwards' "Manual of Zoology," translated by Dr. Knox, with 500 illustrations, fep.-According to the Athenaeum, the Diaries of the late Mr. Rogers are not so nearly ready for the press as rumour has assigned; they are at the disposal of the Poet's relatives, the Messrs. Sharpe. In BIOGRAPHY, we have an enlarged edition of "Men of the Time," announced as ready; a new edition of Hepworth Dixon's" William Penn," with a new preface, replying to the accusations of Mr. Macaulay; "Lives of the Two Scaligers," by the Rev. Mark Pattison, B.D., 8vo., in preparation; Mr. Bohn's new volume of his Cheap Series for the present month contains Washington Irving's "Life of General Washington." Works of FICTION promise to be abundant. New novels are preparing by Mrs. Gore, Mrs. Trollope, Miss Jewsbury, the Author of "The Head of the Family," the Author of "Emilia Wyndham," the Author of "Woman's Devotion," Captain Chamier, and Shirley Brooks: "The Monctons," by Mrs. Moodie, 2 vols., ready; also "Colonel Biron," 3 vols.; "The Coldstream Guards," 3 vols.; "Clouds before the Tempest," 3 vols.; and "The Letter and the Spirit," 3 vols. Also, shortly, Elsie Seymour," 3 vols.; "Olive Hastings,” by Mrs Parry, 3 vols.; "Life's Chances;"" Diamond and Dust;" and "Our Own Story," by Selina Bunbury, 3 vols. to 1814," is the subject of Mr. Bohn's volume of the Standard Library for the present month; "The Ecclesiastical History of Ordericus Vitalis" forms the new volume of the Antiquarian Library of the same publisher. A translation of the concluding volumes of M. Thiers' "Consulate and Empire" is announced to appear speedily, under the international copyright regulations. In POETRY, we have "Poems" by Sarah Milligan; the "Eumenides" of Eschylus, translated into English verse, by the Rev. G. C. Swayne, 8vo.; "The Three Spirits," and other poems, by Alfred Knott, small 8vo. Among the SERIALS, an important work is announced by Mr. Owen Jones, "The Grammar of Ornament," to consist of 100 imp. folio plates, printed in colors by Day and Son, to be published fortnightly, in 25 numbers, to commence this day; the Index to Blackwood's Magazine Vols. 1 to 50, announced as preparing in our last Circular, is now ready, in one vol. 8vo.; "Freston Tower, a Tale of the Times of Cardinal Wolsey," is added to the Runand-Read-Library, and "Inheritance," by Miss Ferrier, to the Parlour Library; "Evelyn Forester, a Woman's Story," forms the new volume of Rout ledge's Original Novels; the first number of "The Spiritual Herald," a new monthly serial, devoted to the exposition of Spirit Manifestations, has just appeared. THEOLOGY.-"Sermons in Stones, or Scripture confirmed by Geology," by Dominie MacAusland, in a few days; a new edition of Dr. Kitto's "Cyclopædia of Biblical Literature," with an Index to the entire work, in two volumes, imp. 8vo., is in the press; Typical Forms and Special ends in Creation," by Dr. M'Cosh and George Dickie, M.D.; Butler's "Sermons, Doctrinal and Practical," edited by J. A. Jeremie, D.D., 8vo.; "Sermons by the Dean of Wells," nearly ready; "The Fourth Seal, being short Homilies on the Gospel of St. John," by S. R. Bosanquet, fep.; "Sketches from Our Lord's History," by the Rev. J. F. Iliffernan, A. M., 1 vol. Our Cathedrals," by the Rev. Clement 12mo. ; Moody, 8vo. TRAVELS."The English woman in America," post 8vo.; "Letters from the United States, Cuba, and Canada," by the Hon. Amelia M. Murray, 2 vols.; "Journal of a Tour in the Unsettled Parts of North America in 1796-1797," by the late Francis Baily, F.R.S., 8vo., in the press; "Later Biblical Researches in the Holy Land in 1852," by the Rev. Dr. Robinson, with maps, 8vo., in preparation; also, "A Handbook for India," post 8vo.; "Sketches on Italy, its Last Revolution," &c., by an Italian, post 8vo. LITERARY GOSSIP. Upon the title page of one of Mr. Redfield's publications we observe stamped, the words "Editor's Copy." This we think is an excellent idea, though capable of being improved. It is well known that some of the second-hand-book stalls in the vicinity of Fulton and Nassau streets have copies of new books for sale, often before the regular day of publication. We noticed some time since a valuable book issued by Messrs. Appleton thus exposed for sale, no doubt through the agency of one of those "distinguished Critics," whom that house select to review their publications. The Washington Spectator, edited by Aug. F. HarVey, Esq., assisted by Paul H. Hayne, Esq., is a very pleasant literary journal which we commend to the attention of the public. It has of late contained several sensible articles upon the relations between the and the publishers. press has for the last several years been engaged in collecting. If any of our readers have the abi lity to aid his designs by the contribution of scraps of song,or letters, newspaper paragraphs, memoranda such as would be found in journals, diaries, &c., we should be happy to receive them in his behalf. Collections, such as Mr. Moore is making, are the basis of history if not quite history itself, and every year is diminishing the quantity of available authorities. Towards such works we, and we doubt not our readers, would be happy to give such assistance as may be possible. [For the following items we are indebted to the London Publishers' Circular and Athenaum ] Books on the war still find publishers and readers; Crimea,"translated from the German, by the Hon. W. among the latest are "Court of the Khan of the G. C. Eliot, post, 8vo.; "Turkey and its Inhabitants," by M. A. Ubicini, 2 vols. post 8vo., in preparation: also, "The Realities of the War in the Crimea," post 8vo.; and Mr. Danby Seymour's "Account of Circassia of Russia, from the Year 1724 to 1744," by Genera and the Caucasus, and their Inhabitants;"" Manstein, first edited in 1770 by David Hume, and "Hertfordshire Incumbent." now re-edited by a "Memoirs There is little doubt but that retirement from political life will enable Mr. Macaulay to complete the noble literary undertaking which he has so honorably and successfully commenced; but there is no foundation for a newspaper paragraph asserting that the fifth volume of the History is at press. The new volumes of the Encyclopædia Britannica confirm the high opinion this edition has been gaining for authority and literary ability. The publishers are wisely consulting the future interests of the work, in preference to a mere present speculation. The letters F and G contain articles on "Franklin and the Artic Expedition," by Sir J. Richardson, one of the most experienced authorities on such a subject; and "Goldsmith," by Mr. Macaulay, could not be in better hands. An admirable article on the “Life of Cromwell" appears in the last Edinburgh Review. The parody, in Punch, of "Hiawatha," and the amusing account of the publication of the third and fourth volumes of Macaulay's “England,” in the style of that author, which appeared in the Press, are attributed to the amusing and satiric of Mr. Shirley pen Brooks. The author of "Eōthen" complains of the use made of his fame, and The Times announces, under authority, that the writer of that popular book "never published any other" Mr. Lonie, the mathematical master in Madras College, St. Andrews, has obtained the prize for the best essay on the Stereoscope, awarded by the London Stereoscopic Society. Nothing daunted by the failure of the cheap newspapers, Mr. Bright and his friends are, it is said, about to make the experiment of a daily penny journal in the metropolis; and if the statement of the London correspondent of the Witness is correct, the sufficient to keep the paper afloat for two years,—a courageous speculators are provided with a sum According to a very essential element of success. return just published, the duty on newspapers and last, was £478,792. The Oxford University chest advertisements in the year ending 31st of March has never been opened to a worthier purpose than for a grant of University Press books to the Free Library in the city of Oxford; it could be wished that such instances of consideration were more fre quent among our richly endowed establishments; a selection from the Blue Books," which so uselessly encumber many book-shelves, might be made, occasionally, to the same institutions. We are glad to find that the working classes are bestirring themselves in the cause of self-improvement. At Southampton an Athenæum has been orpros-ganized, at a subscription of one penny per week from 250 members. The library is increasing by means of presents; and a weekly lecture is delivered by the members and their friends; so far this is good; but surely the announcement of French classes is somewhat trop en avance. We reg et to learn that Mr. John G. Saxe is trated by a paralytic stroke. This has compelled HISTORY.-Vols. 4 and 5 of the Rev. Charles Meri- him to throw up his engagements, not, we are glad vale's "History of the Romans under the Empire to say, without a hope of soon fulfilling them. will be ready in the course of the present month; We have received an account of the proceedings also Chapman's "History of Gustavus Adolphus, and of the Thirty Years' War:" Milner's "Russia " is of the "State Historical Society of Wisconsin," held announced as ready: the Fourth and concluding at Madison on Feb. 5th, and are much pleased to obVolume of Lord John Russell's "Memorials and Cor-serve that it is in a very flourishing condition. This respondence of Charles James Fox" will be ready in fact is of itself the strongest indication of the intelIn respect March; Professor Creasy's "History of the Ottoinan lectual cultivation of the "Great West." Turks," the Second and concluding Volume, in a few of its usefulness, the importance of this society candays; Vol. 8 of the popular edition of Hallam's not well be over-estimated. "Historical Works,"to be completed in ten volumes: Mr Frank Moore, whose "Songs and Ballads of "Herodotus," edited by the the Revolution" we are pleased to hear has met Rev. G. Rawlinson, will be ready in March, and the with a very gratifying success, is now engaged work will be completed in 4 vols. 8vo.: "A Hand- upon a second volume, for which he has obtained book of History and Chronology, by B. B. Wood- abundant material. He also proposes soon to pubward, B. A. is in preparation, in post 8vo.; "Mig- lish a book giving pictures of every-day life during net's "History of the French Revolution, from 1789 the revolutionary war, the materials for which he Vol. 1 of Gaisford's 66 Among the sales of books, &c., announced for the present month, we may notice the stock of scientific works and apparatus of Mr. Highley, Jun., of Fleetstreet, who is retiring from business; also the sale of the remaining copies of "The Illustrated Catalogue of the Great Exhibition of 1851," in 4 vols. imp. 4to., with the whole of the woodcuts; and the remaining stock of the maps of the Society for the Diffusion of and the copyright. Useful Knowledge, together with the steel plates became a Russian province; the other work, by Herr Freytag, is entitled "Soll und Haben," in 3 vols.De Wen, of Naples, is about to publish the second part of Fiorelli's important work on Pompeii, containing facsimile copies of the inscriptions at Pompeii, as large as they actually exist. A fact of peculiar significance has, we think, escaped the vigilance of the English press; a petition of the German Musicsellers' Association for a correct interpretation of the Copyright Laws. occasioned the calling of a Congress in November last, by the Saxon Ministry, consisting of the most eminent publishers from Berlin, Leipzig, Gotha, Jena, Munich, Brunswick and Vienna; the results of this conference, which occurred at Leipzig, will be published in the shape of a memoir, and will, no doubt, lead to important results. These are the simple facts. There was no intention New Music.-We have received a few new pieces The death of Mr. Joseph Haydn, compiler of the "Dictionary of Dates," is announced. A rumor had reached us of a Memorial to the Queen, signed by men of letters, protesting against the grant of such pensions as was recently made to this poor scholar; the death of Mr. Haydn will, of course, arrest the proposed memorial. It would be well, nevertheThere is nothing of importance to notice in the less, if Ministers would adopt some intelligible prinFrench publishing circles at present. M. Eugene ciple in the award of Literary Pensions: we should Maron has published a "Literary History of the Re-prefer to see them definitively adopt the principle volution," and the feuilletons of the Presse contain laid down by Sir Robert Peel-Athenæum." the magical name of George Sand to a new work, Evenor and Lucippe." An official return shows that the number of books, pamphlets, &c., published in France in the course of last year, in French, Greek, Latin, and other languages, was 8235; that of musical productions was 1105, and of engravings, lithographs, &c., 2857; the number of books and pamphlets was larger than has been known for the last forty-four years, with the solitary exception of the year 1825, when 8265 productions were brought out. The total number of printed publications in France, since the 1st of November, 1811, when a regular account first began to be taken, to the 31st of December last, was 271,994. We are about to enter another Macaulay controversy. Mr. Hepworth Dixon announces for next week an answer to Mr. Macaulay's charges against Penn. Mr. Macaulay, so rumour has it,-is employed upon a rejoinder to his various critics,-particularly (it is said) to the Times and the Athenæum. Penn, Dryden, and Marlborough are the chief men whose reputations have been assailed by the historian; and his judgments on these personages stand in highest need of explanation and defence. Mr. Dixon, we understand, replies upon the entire case as against Penn, Mr. Macaulay's accusations standing in the latest editions as they stood in the first. We shall be glad to see what Mr. Macaulay can urge in defence of the Taunton charge,-of his assertion that Marlborough's letter caused the failure at Brest, -that Dryden changed his religion for money,that Jeffreys is buried in the Tower and Schomberg in Westminster,-the two latter, blunders which the Times presses against him. Literary controversy is always pleasant; and when conducted with courtesy, and with an earnest desire for the truth-as this controversy most assuredly will be-it is serviceable to history as well as pleasant to readers.-Athenæum A rumor has been afloat that apartments were being prepared at Christ Church for the reception of the Prince of Wales as an Oxford student. The report, which is without foundation, seems to have originated in the fact of the new Dean fitting up certain rooms that Dr. Gaisford never used, and which had on former occasions been occupied by royal or illustrious visitors to the University. Miss A paragraph is passing round the papers in which the names of the Queen and her Lady-in-Waiting, the Hon. Miss Murray, are introduced,-containing some statements which are not quite true. Murray-whose efforts in behalf of ragged schools, female emigration, and other philanthropic movements, have been zealous and constant-has lately been in the United States. While there she wrote a number of pleasant and graphic letters to her friends, in London, chiefly to Lady Byron. These letters she has published-as the reader will see in our review columns-under the title of "Letters from the United States, Cuba, and Canada." In the course of her travels in the South Miss Murray's views of the Slavery Question began to change, and at the end of fifteen months' personal experience of America, she felt convinced that Stafford House had closed its eyes to one side of the question. This change of view Miss Murray communicated to the Queen, who replied to her Lady-in-Waiting, if we are rightly informed, by some very wise and very womanly counsels. Unhappily, the royal letter missed its object; and before Miss Murray had the advantage of reading her august friend's advice she had pledged herself not to observe that discreet silence on a most intricate and vexed problem, which is necessary in persons holding public situations. Miss Murray has the courage of her opinions; but as she chose to take a part in a discussion that every day threatens to rend the Union, her retirement from the Queen's household followed naturally. "Il Trovatore Fantasia," by Henri Rosellen, is a very fair arrangement of some of the airs in Trovatore, introducing the serenade, and the soprano cavatina in the first act. The variations are brilliant and effective. "The Linden Harp," is the title of a little volume of music for children, containing arrangements of all the popular melodies. The words are selected with care, and the book is, of its kind, one of the most convenient and copious extant. Published by Daniel Burgess & Co. From the Athenæum. A correspondent, whose name is known to us as that of a diligent and deserving writer, speaks in severe terms against the practice-which, we fear, MUSICAL AND DRAMATIC GOSSIP.-" Elijah" was reis not diminishing amongst us-—of persons publishing peated, on Monday evening last, by Madame Goldbooks as their own which they do not write. He says, schmidt and her troupe. On this occasion, Miss "you have lately noticed with deserved commendation Dolby fairly divided honors with the Swedish Lady. a couple of little books called - on the title-page of The manner in which her oratorios are got up prewhich there appears the name of as author. Now cludes the possibility of elaborate preparation or I positively assert that this gentleman did not write much variety. Were matters otherwise, we should a single page of either of these books; yet, because he hope to hear her in "Jephtha" (the part of Iphis buys another man's brains, he obtains notices in the being especially suited to her), in "Sampson," in Athenaum which would be a real reputation to an "Israel," or in "Judas," since we fancy that in alactual author." The case, no doubt, is a very wrong most any other oratorio by Handel she would be one; but it is a very ancient evil in the Republic of heard to greater advantage than in "The Messiah." Letters. So long as X. Y. Z. is willing, for a considera--A report is current that Madame Goldschmidt will tion, to write essays, poems, plays, sermons, leaders-sing again at Her Majesty's Theatre this Spring. In any thing, every thing, in the way of fame-and A. B. this, however, we do not place credit, imagining it C. is willing to pay money for the bubble reputation, merely a tale encouraged by those who desire to see we do not see our way very clearly to a remedy. Ex- that opera-house re-opened. posure might do something; but then accusations of such a nature must be sustained by the clearest legal proofs; and so long as X. Y. Z. observes the secrecy for which he is paid, and A. B. C. keeps his own counsel, such proofs are not likely to come into the hands of D. E. F. or any other third party. Athenæum. MUSIC, DRAMA, FINE ARTS. MUSICAL-Last Saturday evening Mr. Eisfeld gave his fourth soirée, which was, in many respects, the best of the series, so far. The programme included a couple of quartets, a pianoforte solo, and two vocal pieces, and the little room of Dodworth's Saloon was crowded to overflowing. It is really pleasant to see how steadily these classical concerts are progressing in public favor, and it speaks well for the musical taste of our citizens. The soiree commenced with Haydn's beautiful quartet No. 78 in B flat, most admirably given, espe- "pro Great importance has been attached by the romanticists of German music to the production of Herr Wagner's "Tannhauser," at Berlin. The event took place on one of the early days of this month. It had been stipulated that the opera should not be given at Berlin except on a scale of great splendor and under a certain superintendence; and the " gress of Dr. Liszt to the Prussian capital and a concert of his music given there, about the same period, were all "timed" so as to bear on the representation and the reception of the work, the active championship of Herr Wagner by Dr. Liszt being known. But the experiment has disappointed the expectations of its well-wishers. Private communications and public reports concur in describing the repre sentation as an entire failure. The public of Berlin is not yet willing to accept the composer of "Tannhauser" as the Gluck, improved and continued down to the present day, with the newest discoveries," whom Herr Wagner's self and sect have de clared him to be.-The mise en scène of the opera was greatly admired; the performauce was accompanied with disapprobation, and the conquest of the Prussian metropolis has still, we apprehend, to be proved a disappointment to his admirers. To no effected.-The concert of Dr. Liszt's music, too, one are Dr. Liszt's mistakes more disappointing than to ourselves. It is a pity to think of a man of conviction, honor and genius straining his energies to arrive at a point which can only be reached through the wreck and ruin of every thing in music we have been used to admire, and of which, when he wills, he is still "first among first" interpreters. Throughout this late movement (as it is called) in Germany, there has been always something separate and different from music, of which persons ever so moderately conversant with the state of opinion and society in that country cannot have forborne to take count.We hear now that a reversal of the sentence which has prevented Herr Wagner from conducting any of his works in person in any German theatre since the tumults of 1848 is to be forthwith granted, and are curious to watch the result of his return, as rereflecting on his musical acceptance among the musicians and music-lovers of Germany. Meanwhile, Time gets on, and the new revelation (so called) makes no way. The critic's duty in regard to Eisfeld's soirees, is generally concluded, after giving a slight resumé of the programme. Every thing is so carefully hearsed, and so finely executed as to leave little room for fault-finding. The performers are entirely too careful for the critic's satisfaction. Can nothing induce Mr. Noll to lose his time, and take up his part in the fugue movement, a bar too late? Will not Mr. Bergner make some blunder for our special gratification? Will not Mr. Reyer or Eisfeld himself do something awkward and incorrect to give us an opportunity of fault-finding? Noticing Mr. Feder's name on the programme, we had decided that he would afford us the required food for condemnation, but he sang so well that we could find nothing in the whole soirée to vary the monotory of praise. per piece, since withdrawn; it being understood that there was a difficulty in procuring the Lord Chamberlain's licence. On Monday evening, a substitute was provided, under the title of "What does he want?" and Mr. Leigh Murray was introduced, in the midst of the Professor's magical doings, as Mr. C. Mathews, and claimed to take share in the formance. After some unsuccessful effors at conjur ing, the intruder undertook the task, not only of imitating the light comedian whose character he had assumed, but Mr. C. Kean and the Professor himself, the former in a highly colored recitation of the "Ratcatcher's Daughter," and the latter as Rob Roy. As to the cleverness of these imitations there can be no doubt. But the audience manifested a determination to put an end to these personalities; and it is to be hoped that the patrons of Drury Lane will follow the example. The three pictures bequeathed by Mr. Rogers have been transferred to the National Gallery, and were hung on the walls of the great room on Tuesday last. The fine Titian is placed to the right of the door going in. Beside the great Paul Veronese, the Consecration of St. Nicholas, it appears to every advantage. In the house of the Poet it was hung too high, and the dazzling sunlight contained in the picture itself was somewhat obscured by position. Now it is placed on a level with the eye so as to accord with the horizon of the deep blue sea in the distance. The picture has never been seen more favorably. The head of Our Saviour by Guido has suffered by the change of position. By the side of Correggio's impressive "Ecce Homo," the new acquisition looks coarse and sketchy. It was evidently dashed off at once, and every stroke of the brush remains distinctly visible. In this respect Sharpe's beautiful engraving from it must be wondered at. Seen as these two pictures now are together, it must strike many that there is a decided affinity between them in the physiognomy of "The Man of sorrows," the expression of Guido's being more intense, Correggio's more truly pathetic.-the Giorgione Study of a Knight," placed beside the small "Holy Family" by Correggio, is highly finished, but appears very diminutive in so spacious an apartment. The Sebastian del Piombo has again been shifted to the north side of the room, and the great Paul Veronese, recently acquired from Venice, will this day occupy the west wall facing the entrance. We shall next week return to it. M. Aloph has received commissions from the Emperor of the French to paint two grand historical pictures. The first is to be-the Council of War at the Tuileries, with portraits of all the distinguished generals and admirals who were present. The second is to be the Peace Congress, with portraits of the chief statesmen and diplomatists of Europe. Two bronze statues will be erected in the Champs Elysée, at Paris, on the right and left of the Palace of Industry. On the right that of Olivier de Sèvres, called the Father of French Agriculture, (born 1539, at Villeneuve de Berg, died 1619), on the left that of Buffon. Another statue, Marshal Gerard, by M. Cordier, is to be erected in front of the Café of the Ambassador. Every traveller in Styria and the Tyrol who has a cultivated ear must have been pleased at some of the hospitable village inns-the comforts of which, indeed, make a ramble through that district resemble a journey from friend's house to friend's houseby the quaint, stinging, and yet sweet sounds, of the Zitter, played to him, as he sits supping off trout and game, by some large-limbed, laughing fellow, in his peaked hat and leathern belt; while the broad-faced girl at his side-no less gay, neat, and cheerfully bold-sings some wild tune or strain which has strayed out from the faëry theatres of Vienna, and received its trills and turns from the peasant who renders it so quaintly. The Zitter has come to London in the hands of Herr Carl Laue; and by the Theoretical and Practical Cither School before us, (published by Scheurmann & Co.), it seems that the Zitter-master cherishes the dream that his instrument, which has of late received many improvements, may be made popular among our English Ladies. We do not know how far there is a chance of their taking up this thirty-stringed instrument in emulation of the Princes of Germany and the élite of the fashionable world," among whom, Herr Laue tells us, it has become a favorite, thanks to the masterly performance of Herr Petzmayer, private musician to his Serene Highness the Duke of Bavaria," - and we cannot help fancying the Zitter fitter for wild, than for tame, music,-for the balcony or porch overhanging some Styrian see, than for the velvet ottomans of Belgravia, where Lord Johns lounge up to Lady Marys, to finish off THE CRITERION. the War, the English and French Alliance, the Westerton controversy, or the note just lost by Mario, with the same languid infallibility of decision.To those who think otherwise, Herr Laue's instrument and instruction-book may be cordially commended. MISCELLANEA. From Notes and Queries. POSIES FROM WEDDING RINGS. More than thirty years ago I collected the following posies from old wedding rings. My friends furnished me with several, but the greater number were transcribed from worn-out rings, afterwards melted by the dealers, who allowed me to copy the inscriptions. Some were very old: "Death neuer parts Such loving hearts." "Loue and respect I doe expect. The love I ow." "Let him never take a wife That will not love her as his life." "In loving thee Night and daye." "My fond delight Love to pray. 1647." J. J. D. 1677." Doth leade to God." "God alone made us two one." "Eternally My loue shal be." "All I refuse, And thee I cbnse." "Worship is due To God and you." "God aboue, Continew our loue." "I wish to thee All joie may bee." "With my body I worship thee." "In thee, my loue, All joye I proue." "Beyond this life Loue me, deare wife." "Joye day and night Bee our delight." "Divinely knitt by Grace are wee; "Endles my lone Twixt man and wife." "Joyfull loue This ring do proue." "In thee, deare wife, I finde new life." "Of rapturous joye I am the toye." "In thee I prove The joy of love." "In loving wife Spend all thy life. 1697." "Endles my love as this." "In love abide Till death divide." "True love will ne'er renove." "In unitie Let's live and dy." "Happy in thee Hath God made me." "I loue myself in louing thee." "Silence ends strife With man and wife." "None can prenent The Lord's intent." "More weare-more were. "God did decree Our unitie." "I kiss the rod From thee and God." "In loue and joy Be our employ." "Live and loue; Loue and live." "This ring doth binde Body and minde." "Endles as this Shall be our bliss. Thos. Bliss. 1719." "Loue and joye Can neuer cloye." "The pledge I prove Of mutuall love." "I love the rod [Mar. 1, 1856. And thee and God. 1646." "I doe rejoice In thee, my choice." "All I refuse, But thee I chuse." "I change the life Of mayd to wife." "Endles my love For thee shall prove." 1652." EPICUREAN FANCIES OF SERPENTS. As We have before referred to the extraordinary length of time a python has been known to fast without injury. Their fancies as well as their fastings are rather eccentric. Every one has heard of the snake who swallowed his blanket, a meal which ultimately killed him. A python who had lived for years in a friendly manner with a brother nearly as large as himself, was found one morning solus. the cage was secure, the keepers were puzzled to know how the serpent had escaped: at last it was observed that the remaining inmate had swollen remarkably during the night, when the horrid fact became plain enough; the fratricide had succeeded in swallowing the entire person of his brother: it was his last meal, however, for in some months he died. A friend informs us that he once saw in these gardens a rat-snake of Ceylon devour a common coluber natrix. The rat-snake, however, had not taken the measure of his victim, as by no effort could he dispose of the last four inches of his tail, which stuck out rather jauntily from the side of his mouth, with very much the look of a cigar. After a quarter of an hour, the tail began to exhibit a retrograde motion, and the swallowed snake was disgorged, nothing the worse for his living sepulchre, with the exception of the wound made by his partner when he first seized him. The ant-eater, who lately inhabited the room leading out of the Python apartment, has died of a want of ants.-London Quarterly. A PLEASANT PROMISE. A letter from J. B. McCaul in the Athenæum says, "Mr. Cole, in his new Memoirs of the Peninsular Generals' (vol. ii. p. 28), repeats the well-known story about Sir Thomas Picton's threat against Commissary General That official having complained to the Duke of Wellington that Picton had declared his intention of hanging him, if the rations for his division were not forthcoming by a certain hour, the Duke is reported to have said:-‘ Ah, did he go so far as that? Did he say he'd hang you?'- Yes my Lord.'- Well, if General Picton said so, I have no doubt he will keep his word; you'd better get the rations up in time.'-A similar story is told of Louis the Fourteenth and President Harlay. A rich contractor, who in time of great scarcity had bought up a large amount of corn, was threatened by Harlay with a like elevation if he did not at once bring his corn into the market. The merchant complained indignantly to the King; upon which Louis gravely replied,—'Je vous conseille d'exécuter les ordres qu'il vous a donné, car, s'il vous a menacé de vous faire pendre, il le fera comme il le dit.'-I do not mean to say that Wellington had Louis's words in his mind at the time, but the coincidence is singular." |