FEINBERG/WHITMAN LITERARY FILE Prose "Death in the School Room" (Aug. 1841). U.S. Magazine & Democratic Review. Box 30 Folder 43 Printed Cpy EACH NUMBER EMBELLISHED WITH A PORTRAIT. Vol. IX. New Series. No. XXXVIII. THE UNITED STATES MAGAZINE, AND DEMOCRATIC REVIEW. "THE BEST GOVERNMENT IS THAT WHICH GOVERNS LEAST." AUGUST, 1841. NEW YORK: J. & H. G. LANGLEY, 57 CHATHAM STREET. $5 per Annum STEREOTYPED BY J. S. REDFIELD. H. LUDWIG, PRINTER. THE UNITED STATES MAGAZINE AND DEMOCRATIC REVIEW. SECOND SERIES. EDITED BY JOHN L. O'SULLIVAN AND S. D. LANDTREE. THE Eight Volumes through which the existence of the Democratic Review has continued, since its commencement in the month of October, 1837, embracing the term of Mr. Van Buren's Presidency, and constituting a single distinct and complete political period and movement, having its natural beginning and end, the Proprietors determined to divide its publication at the close of that term, and regarding the past portion as a "First Series," to commence a " Second Series" with the new order of things presented by the reversed relations in which the two great Parties of the country are now placed, in respect to the possession of the reins of the National Government. By the extraordinary political revolution which the past few months have witnessed, a crisis is produced in the history of our institutions calculated to test severely both their permanence and their value. All the fruits of the long struggles which have so deeply convulsed the country, for the restoration of the government to a harmony in its practice, with the original principles on which it was based, we suddenly find placed in a situation of imminent jeopardy, even if they are not to he regarded as already lost. The whole battle of the past three Presidential terms is to be fought over again ; again have we to go through the great national discussion which we had supposed exhausted and terminated, on the vital questions involving the destinies of the Republic through unnumbered future years. In this contest, the Democratic Review will occupy the same position that it has ever maintained. It will combat with all the energy it can summon, in defence of the rights of the people, in a fearless and sturdy resistance of every partial scheme of policy, animated by the consciousness that it lifts its arm in a great and good cause, and by the hope that it may contribute in some degree to the magnificent movement that has been started towards a future of more glorious enlargement and freedom. The importance of such a periodical must be evident. Discussing the great questions of polity before the country, ex-pounding and advocating the Democratic doctrine through the most able pens that that party can furnish, in articles of greater length, more condensed force, more elaborate research, and more elevated tone than is possible for the newspaper press, a Magazine of this character becomes an instrument of inappreciable value for the enlightenment and formation of public opinion, and for the support of the principles which it advocates. By these means, by thus explaining and defending the measures of the Democratic party, and by always furnishing to the public a clear and powerful commentary upon those complex questions of policy which so frequently distract the country, and upon which, imperfectly understood as they often are by friends, and misrepresented and distorted as they never fail to be by political opponents, it is of the utmost importance that the public should be fully and rightly informed, it is hoped that the periodical in question may be made to exert a beneficial, rational, and lasting influence on the public mind. Co-ordinate with the main design of The United States Magazine, no care nor cost will he spared to render it, in a Literary point of view, honorable to the country, and fit to cope in vigor of rivalry with its European competitors. Viewing the English language as the noble heritage and common birth-right of all who speak the tongue of Milton and Shakspeare, it will be the uniform object of its conductors to present only the finest productions in the various branches of literature that can be procured, and to diffuse the benefit of correct models of taste and worthy execution. In this department the exclusiveness of party, which is in-separable from the political department of such a work, will have no place. Here we all stand on a neutral ground of equality and reciprocity, where those universal principles of taste to, which we are all alike subject, will alone he recognised as the common law. Our political principles cannot be compromised, but our common literature it will he our common pride to cherish and extend, with a liberality of feeling unbiased by partial or minor views. Although in its political character The United States Magazine addresses its claims to the support of the Democratic party, it is hoped that its other features referred to above—independently of the desirable object of becoming acquainted with the doctrine of an opponent thus advocated—will recommend it to a liberal and candid support from all parties, and from the large class of no party. THE EDITORS. NEW York, June 1, 1841. The subscribers having assumed the publication of the above Magazine, pledge themselves that it shall he promptly issued on the first of each month, in the cities of New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Baltimore, and Washington. It will also be sent by the most rapid conveyances to the different towns in the interior where subscribers may reside. The facilities afforded by the extensive Publishing business of the undersigned enable them to make this promise, which shall be punctually fulfilled. The subscribers are happy in stating that they have secured the valuable services of the Editors who have already given so high a character to the Review. They will be assisted by the exertions of those writers who have before contributed, and others, embracing some of the finest intellects that this country has produced. To promote the popular objects in view, and relying upon the united support of the democratic party, as well as others, the price of subscription is fixed at the low rate of Five dollars per annum ; while in mechanical arrangement, and in size, quantity of matter, &c. the United States Magazine will be placed on a par, at least, with the leading monthlies of England. Each number will contain 96 closely printed octavo pages, and accompanied by a finely engraved Portrait of a distinguished political or Literary character. TERMS.—Five Dollars per annum, payable in all cases in advance. Any person taking four copies, or becoming responsible for four subscribers, will be entitled to a fifth copy gratis. Committees or Societies on remitting to the Publishers $50 in current New York funds, can receive thirteen copies of the work. Persons residing in the country, who may wish to receive the work by mail, can have it punctually forwarded on the day of publication by remitting the amount of subscription to the publishers. Remittances maybe made by enclosing the money and mailing the same in the presence of a Post-Master. Bank notes that pass current in business generally in the State of New York, will he received. All communications for the Editors, to be addressed (post paid), to J. & IL G. LANGLEY, PUBLISHERS, 57 CHATHAM STREET, NEW YORK. TRAVELLING Agents and Canvassers wanted for the different states, to whom a liberal commission will be allowed. Security will be required. Apply personally or by letter, post paid, to the Publishers. FOR LIST OF GENERAL AGENTS, SEE PAGE 3 OF COVER MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. NEW-YORK, AUGUST, 1841 TO THE TRADE AN effective and accredited medium for the dissemination of Literary Announcement and Advertisements has been a desideratum long felt by the several members of the Trade ; it is therefore, with much pleasure the Publishers of THE UNITED STATES MAGAZINE AND DEMOCRATIC REVIEW have to announce that, in accordance with the suggestion of several Publishing houses, an Advertising sheet will in future be appended to this work, which it is believed will combine most of the desired advantages. The extraordinary degree of popularity which the First Series of this Periodical has attained, (its circulation in more than one instance having exceeded 7000 copies,) affords the best augury for that of the New Series, the First Number of which will be issued on the 1st of July ; while, from its high literary reputation, and the class of readers to whom it will have access, it will be especially adapted for the dissemination of Literary Intelligence. The evils incident to the ordinary newspaper channels will also in the present arrangement he efficiently remedied .a strict regard being in all cases paid to Classification of advertisements, while at the same time, a sufficient guarantee will be found in the sterling character of the work to which they will be appended, for their permanency and preservation. In addition to the advantages above enumerated, the Publishers intend to issue on the 10th of every month, detached from the Magazine, and in the quarto form, a MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER, on the plan of Bent's well known circular of that name, in which the literary advertisements, announcements, &c., inserted in The United States Magazine and Democratic Review, will be transferred, without any additional charge, and A COPY OF WHICH WILL RE REGULARLY MAILED, GRATUITOUSLY, TO EVERY BOOKSELLER IN THE UNITED STATES. It is only necessary to add, that a great improvement now for the first time will be introduced in the Display of advertisements, by the use of a bold and legible type, the great importance of which cannot fail of being readily appreciated. By the above plan, advertisements inserted in The U. S. Magazine and Democratic Review, will not only be brought before a large number of readers, since from the high tone of its literary contributions, the work itself will doubtless pass into the hands of most literary men ; but the " Literary Advertiser," may be reasonably expected to have a much greater circulation, from the importance and value of the information it will supply on all subjects connected with the interest of our general literature ; in addition to this it will be the means by which all New Works will be at once made known to every member of the Trade throughout the country. The benefits of such a medium must be self-evident ; its great value consisting in the currency it will so readily ensure to all Literary Announcements, of works actually in progress of publication, in contemplation, or already published, as well as every other kind of literary information which it might be desirable to communicate to the several members of the trade. Another and peculiar feature in the new series of the above Magazine will consist in its extended Notices of New Books, which will be found to be both critical and analytical, as well as characterized by candour and impartiality. It is requested, therefore, that all works intended for Review in the pages of The Magazine, as well as all Literary Intelligence of new works in press, &c., may be forwarded as early as convenient, address to the Publishers. In the present attempt to establish so desirable an organ of communication, uniting so many advantages and facilities for the trade generally, the Publishers indulge the hope that it will be met by their concurrent approbation and support, this being indeed absolutely indispensable to its successful operation. Subscribers and the public can have the above " Literary Advertiser" forwarded to their address on their remittance of the annual Subscription to the work of $1 00. TERMS FOR ADVERTISING In the United States Magazine 4. 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[August, THE SCHOOL DISTRICT LIBRARY, PUBLISHED BY HARPER & BROTHERS, 82 Cliff-street, New-York, EMBRACING HISTORY, VOYAGES AND TRAVELS, BIOGRAPHY, NATURAL HISTORY, THE PHYSICAL SCIENCES, AGRICULTURE, MANUFACTURES, ARTS, COMMERCE, BELLES LETTRES, THE HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION, &c. " Knowledge is as the light of heaven ; free, pure, pleasant, exhaustless. It invites all to possession: it admits of no pre-emption, no rights exclusive, no monopoly." "Promote, as objects of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. Washington's Farewell Address. Extract from the Hon. John C. Spencer's Circular to Trustees of School Districts, Commissioners of Common Schools, &c. " The first series of the District Library, issued by the Messrs. Harper of New-York, is the best selection that has yet appeared ; it consists of fifty volumes, enclosed in a neat case with a good lock. The same enterprising publishers are preparing a Second and a Third Series, to consist of books selected by competent persons, and approved by the Superintendent of Common Schools." Extract of a letter from His Excellency Governor Seward, dated Albany, October 30, 1839. " I any satisfied the works you have selected are admirably adapted to the purpose for which they were designed. Many of them have an established fame, and the talents and learning of the authors are a sufficient guarantee for the excellence of the others. I sincerely hope that the books may be extensively introduced into the school districts, and that your very laudable efforts may be crowned with success." From Gen. John A. Dix formerly Secretary of State and Superintendent of Common Schools. Albany, Nov. 12, 1839. Messrs. Harper if Brothers,—Gentlemen—I have carefully examined your second series of the School District Library, and am exceedingly gratified that it meets so fully the object in view—that of disseminating works suited to the intellectual improvement of the great body of the people." I consider the collection highly judicious ; and, taken in connexior with the first series, it constitutes a more valuable selection of books for a library than any other of the same number of volumes of which I have any knowledge. I sincerely hope that it may find its way into every school district in the state. I am happy to perceive that you have a third series in preparation, and I take great pleasure in bearing testimony to the zeal with which you embarked at an early day, and have since continued to persevere, in an enterprise of so much importance to the school districts of this state. I am, very respectfully, yours, JOHN A. DIX. From his Excellency W. L. Marcy, late Governor of the State of New•York. Albany, October. 29. 1839. Messrs. Harper,—Gentlemen—I have availed myself of the opportunity you have afforded me, to examine the Second Series of the School District Library ; and though I thought the first a very judicious and appropriate selection, I am inclined to believe the second preferable to it. Some of the books contained in it I have never read, but the subjects of which they treat are such as should in an especial manner be presented to the class of readers for which the library is intended. The introduction of libraries into our district schools is a new and highly valuable feature in the system of popular education. The character of the books which you have published for this purpose, and the low price at which they may be obtained, must, I think, facilitate the establishment of such libraries. I sincerely hope that you will meet with sufficient encouragement to induce you to continue the series. I am, with great respect, your obedient servant, W. L. MARCY. THIRD SERIES—PRICE $20, INCLUDING A NEAT CASE, OR $19 WITHOUT A CASE 96, 97. THE HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. By the Hon. S. Hale. (An original work, written expressly for this Library.) 98. LETTERS ON NATURAL MAGIC. By Sir David Brewster. LL.D., F.R.S. 99. APPLICATIONS of the SCIENCE of MECHANICS to Practical Purposes. By James Renwick, LL.D. Numerous Engravings. 100, 101. VOYAGES for the DISCOVERY of a NORTHWEST PASSAGE from the ATLANTIC to the PACIFIC, and Narrative of an Attempt to reach the North Pole. By Sir W. E. Parry, Capt. R.N., F.R.S. En-gravings. 102, 103, 101, 105, 106. THE HISTORY OF ENGLAND. From the Earliest Period to 1839. By Thos. Keightley. With Notes, &c. by the American Editor. 107, 108. LIFE of COMMODORE OLIVER H. PERRY. By Lieut. A. Slidell Mackenzie, Author of "A Year in Spain," &c. Portrait. 109, 110. THE LIFE and WORKS of DR. OLIVER GOLDSMITH. By Washington Irving. Portrait. 111, 112. AN HISTORICAL and DESCRIPTIVE ACCOUNT of BRITISH AMERICA, viz. Canada, Upper and Lower, Nova Scotia, New-Brunswick, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, the Bermudas, and the Fur Countries; their History from the Earliest Settlement; their Statistics, Topography, Commerce, Fisheries, &c.; and their Social and Political Condition ; as also an Account of the Manners and Present State of the Aboriginal Tribes. By H. Murray, F.R.S.E. Map. 113. OUTLINES OF DISORDERED MENTAL ACTION. By Professor Upham, of Bowdoin College, Maine. 114. SELECTIONS from AMERICAN POETS, By W. C. Bryant. 115, 116. SELECTIONS from FOREIGN POETS. By F. G. Halleck. 117. HISTORY of the MOORS of SPAIN. Translated from the French Original of M. Florian. 118, 119. DISTINGUISHED MEN of MODERN TIMES. 120. COUNSELS to YOUNG MEN, &e. By President Nott. 121. THE LIFE and ADVENTURES of BRUCE, the African Traveller. By Major Sir Francis B. Head. Portrait. 122, 123. THE LIFE and WORKS of DR. SAMUEL JOHNSON. By the Rev. Wm. P. Page. Portrait. 124. POLITICAL ECONOMY. Its Objects stated and explained, and its Principles familiarly and practically illustrated. By Rev. Dr. Potter. 125. THE LIFE and TRAVELS of MUNGO PARK; with the Account of his Death from the Journal of Isaaco, the substance of Later Discoveries relative to his lamented fate, and the Termination of the Niger. Engravings. 126. THE PLEASURES and ADVANTAGES of SCIENCE. By Lord Brougham, Professor Sedgwick, Gulian C. Verplanek, and the Rev. Dr. Potter. 127. TWO YEARS BEFORE THE MAST; a Personal Narative of Life at Sea. By R.H. Dana, Jr.,Esq., of Boston. 1841.1 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 3 Harper & Brothers' School Library continued. 128. HISTORY OF LOST GREENLAND. By a Clergyman. 129, 130. AMERICAN HUSBANDRY; being a Series of Essays, &c., designed for its Improvement, compiled principally from the Cultivator and the Genesee Farmer, with Notes and Additions by Willis Gaylord and Luther Tucker, Editors of the Cultivator, &c. Engravings. 131,132. UNCLE PHILIP'S CONVERSATIONS with the CHILDREN about the HISTORY of MASSACHUSETTS. 133, 134. UNCLE PHILIP'S CONVERSATIONS with the CHILDREN about the HISTORY of NEW HAMPSHIRE. 135. THE SIDEREAL HEAVENS AND OTHER OBJECTS CONNECTED WITH ASTRONOMY, as illustrative of the Character of the Deity and of an Infinity of Worlds. By Thomas Dick, LL.D. HARPER & BROTHERS also publish the following Valuable Works for Schools and Colleges : 136. FIRST PRINCIPLES of CHEMISTRY; being a familiar Introduction to the Study of that Science. By Professor Renwick. 137. HISTORY and PRESENT CONDItion of the BARBARY STATES. By Rev. Michael Russell, LL.D. 138. THE FAMILY INSTRUCTER ; or, a Manual of the Duties, &c. of Domestic Life. By a Parent 139. HISTORY of CONNECTICUT. By Theodore Dwight, Esq. 140. STORIES FOR YOUNG PERSONS. By Miss Sedgwick. 141, 142, 143. THE HISTORY of FRANCE. By E. E. Crowe, Esq. 144, 145. THE HISTORY of SCOTLAND. By Sir Walter Scott. The Philosophy of Rhetoric, by George Campbell, D.D., F.R.S. A new edition, with the author's last Additions and Corrections. A Life of George Washington, in Latin Prose, by Francis Glass, A.M., of Ohio ; edited by J. N. Reynolds, 12mo. Portrait. Inquiries concerning the Intellectual Powers and the Investigation of Truth, by John Abercrombie, M.D., F.R.S., with Questions, 18mo. The Philosophy of the Moral Feelings, by John Abercrombie, M.D., F.R.S., with Questions, 18mo. Paley's Natural Theology, with Illustrative Notes, by Henry Lord Brougham, F.R.S., and Sir Charles Bell, K.G.H., F.R.S. L. & E., with numerous Wood Cuts, to which are added Preliminary Observations and Notes, by Alonzo Potter, D.D., 2 vols. 18mo. A Manual of Conchology, by T. Wyatt, M.A.., illustrated by 36 Plates, containing more than two hun-dred types drawn from Natural Shells, 8vo. Familiar Illustrations of Natural Philosophy, selected principally from Daniel's Chemical Philosophy, by James Renwick, LL.D., 18mo. Engravings. First Principles of Chemistry ; being a familiar Introduction to the study of that Science, by Professor Renwick, 18mo. Engravings. The Elements of Geology for Popular Use. containing a Description of the Geological Formations and Mineral Resources of the United States, by Charles A. Lee, A.M., M.D., 18mo. Engravings. The Principles of Physiology, applied to the Preservation of Health,and to the Improvement of Physical and Mental Education, by Andrew Cornbe, M.D. Enlarged edition with Questions, 18mo. Application of the Science of Mechanics to Practical Purposes, by James Renwick. Engravings. The History of Greece, by Dr. Goldsmith ; edited by the author of "American Popular Lessons," &c• 18mo. Animal Mechanism and Physiology, being a plain and familiar Exposition of the Structure and Functions of the Human System, designed for the use of Families and Schools, by John H. Griscom, M.D., 18mo. Engravings. Universal History, from the Creation of the World to the Decease of George III., 1820, by the Hon. Alexander Fraser Tytler and Rev. E. Nares, DD., edited by an American, in 6 vols., 18mo. American History, by the author of "American Popular Lessons," in 3 vols. 18mo. Engravings. The History of Rome, by Dr. Goldsmith ; edited by H. W. Herbert, Esq., 18mo. An Elementary Treatise on Mechanics, translated from the French of M. Boucharlat, with Additions and Emendations designed to adapt it to the use of the Cadets of the U. S. Military Academy, by Edward H. Courtenay, 8vo. sheep. A Table of Logarithms, of Logarithmic Sines, and a Traverse Table, 12mo. Anthon's Series of Classical Works. First Latin Lessons, containing the most important parts of the Grammar of the Latin Language, together with appropriate Exercises in the translating and writing of Latin, for the use of Beginners, by Charles Anthon, LL.D.,12mo First Greek Lessons, containing the most important parts of the Grammar of the Greek Language, together with appropriate Exercises in the translating and writing of Greek, for the use of Beginners, by Charles Anthon, LL.D., 18mo. A Grammar of the Greek Language, for the use of Schools and Colleges, by Charles Anthon, LL.D., 12mo. Greek Reader, principally from Jacobs, with English Notes, critical and explanatory, a Metrical Index to Homer and Anacreon, and a copious Lexicon, by Charles Anthon, LL.D., 12mo. A System of Greek Prosody and Metre, for the use of Schools and Colleges: together with the Choral Scanning of the Prometheus Vinctus of lEschylus, and the Ajax and (Edipus Tyrannus of Sophocles ; to which are appended remarks on the Indo-Germanic Analogies, by Charles Anthon, LL.D., 12mo. Caesar's Commentaries on the Gallic War, and the First Book of the Greek Paraphrase, with English Notes, critical and explanatory, Plans of Battles, Sieges-&c., and Historical, Geographical and Archaeological Index-es, by Charles Anthon, LL.D., 12mo. Map, Portrait, &c. Sallust's Jugurthine War and Conspiracy of Catiline, with an English Commentary, and Geographical and Historical Indexes, by Charles Anthon, LL.D.; ninth edition, corrected and enlarged, 12mo. Portrait Select Orations of Cicero,with English Notes, critical and explanatory, and Historical, Geographical and Legal Indexes, by Charles Anthon, LL.D. A new edition with improvements, 12mo. Portrait. The Works of Horace, with English Notes, critical and explanatory, by Charles Anthon, LL.D. New edition, with corrections and improvements, 12mo. A Classical Dictionary, containing an account of all the Proper Names mentioned in Ancient Authors, and intended to elucidate all the important points con-nected with the Geography, History, Biography, Archaeology, and Mythology of the Greeks and Romans, together with a copious Chronological Table, and an account of the Coins, Weights and Measures of he Ancients, with Tabular Values of the same, by Charles Anthon, LL.D., 8vo. A System of Latin Prosody and Metre, by Charles Mahon, LL.D., 12mo. Upham's Philosophical Works. Elements of Mental Philosophy, abridged and designed as a Text-Book in Academies and High Schools, by Thomas C. Upham, 12mo. Elements of Mental Philosophy, embracing the two Departments of the Intellect and Sensibilities, by T. C. Upham, Professor of Mental and Moral Philosophy in Bowdoin College, 2 vols. 12mo. A Philosophical and Practical Treatise on the Will, by Thomas C. Upham, 12mo. O Outlines of Imperfect and Disordered Menalt Action, by Thomas C. Upham, 12mo. Many other Works, suitable for use as text-books, &c., and already largely introduced in schools and colleges, may be found under the heads of History Biography, Natural Philosophy and Natural History to Harper & Brothers' general Catalogue. 4 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. [August, 1841.] EMPORIUM FOR STANDARD LITERATURE, English and American. D. APPLETON & Co. 200 Broadway, Beg leave to invite the attention of their Friends and the Public generally, to their Choice and Unique Assortment of the most important Works that emanate from the English and American Press. Their Establishment is distinguished by its large collection of Standard Works in the several departments of THEOLOGY, CIVIL AND ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY, NATURAL AND MORAL PHILOSOPHY, ARCHITECTURE, AND ENGINEERING, GENERAL BIOGRAPHY, VOYAGES AND TRAVELS, FINE ARTS, CLASSICAL AND MISCELLACNEOUS LITERATURE. Among their recent importations will be found new and beautiful editions of the works of Bacon, Clarendon, Burnet, Jeremy Taylor, Milton, Barrow, Hooker, Ben Jonson, Massinger and Ford, Beaumont and Fletcher, Shakspeare, Froissart, Monstrelet, Doddridge, Baxter, Owen, Strype, Bloomfield, Cranmer, Butler, Cave, Berkeley, Adams, Greenhill, Donne, South, Hume and Smollett,,Gibbon, Robertson, Locke, Lardner, Leslie, Hurd, Porteus, John Scott, Skelton, Sherlocke, Wharburton, Chillingworth, Leighton, Simeon, Tillotson, Hall, Shirley, Davy, Henry, Clarke, Wraxhall, Alison, Mitford, Byron, Stackhouse, Bentley, Shaaron, Turner, Spencer, Warton, Fuller, Lamb, Hazlitt, Coleridge, Shelley, Bingham, Graves, Beveridge, Wycherley, Congreve, Vanbrugh, Farquhar, and others, too numerous to mention, always for sale on favourable terms. AMERICAN BOOKS: Their Assortment of "Modern American Publications" is now very complete, comprising the most Valuable and Approved WORKS IN THEOLOGICAL AND MISCELLANEOUS LITERATURE, TO WHICH ADDITIONS ARE CONSTANTLY BEING ADDED. SCHOOL BOOKS IN EVERY VARIETY. Country Merchants Supplied on the most favourable terms. IMPORTATION OF EUROPEAN BOOKS. D. APPLETON & CO. Beg to inform Literary and Scientific Gentlemen, and the Public generally, that they have made extensive arrangements for the increase of their business, through the senior partner of their firm, (now resident in England,) connected with the establishment of a permanent London Agency for the purchase and supply of European Books, to be conducted by one of their house, who will devote his personal attention to the execution of all orders transmitted them, with the utmost promptitude and dispatch. They are induced to take this step from a conviction of its important utility to the literary interests of this country, derived from their long experience in business; and they flatter themselves that this arrangement will place them in the most favourable position for making purchases in the British and Continental Book Markets ; while by restricting their business simply to an Agency for the purchase of Books, they will enjoy all the advantages accorded by the custom of the London Trade when books are bought for exportation to a foreign country, but which are rigorously withheld from any establishment engaged in the sale of books on the spot. It will be their aim to merit the patronage of the public by furnishing books at the lowest possible price, and the constant attention of a member of their Firm, personally acquainted with the British and Foreign Book Trade, will secure the speedy execution of all orders entrusted to their care. TERMS.—Colleges, Theological Seminaries, and Incorporated Institutions generally, may have their orders executed, to any amount, free of duty, on a charge of Ten per cent. Commission— the Goods to be paid for on their arrival at New-York—without any advance of cash required. From Gentlemen and Private Individuals, (when they are not known to D. A. & Co.) an advance of one half the probable cost of the order will be required ; the balance to be settled on the arrival of the Books at New-York. A Commission of Ten per cent. being charged. D.A & Co. have recently published the following valuable Works : THE NATURAL HISTORY OF SOCIETY, in the Barbarous and Civilized State—An Essay towards discovering the Origin and Course of Human Improvement. By W. Cooke Taylor, LL.D., &c., of Trinity College, Dublin. Handsomely printed on fine paper. 2 vols. 12mo. "A most able work, the design of which is to determine from an examination of the various forms in which society has been formed, what was the origin of civilization, and under what circumstances those attributes of humanity, which in one country become the foundation of social happiness, and in another perverted to the production of general misery. For this purpose the author has separately examined the principal elements by which society, under all its aspects, is held together, and traced each to its source in human nature. He has then directed attention to the development of these principles, and pointed out the circumstances by which they were perfected on the one hand, or corrupted on the other." "We perceive by the preface that the work has had throughout the superintendence of the very learned Archbishop Whatecy." —New-York American. ON HEROES, HERO-WORSHIP, AND THE HEROIC IN HISTORY. Six Lectures, reported with emendations and additions—By Thomas Carlyle, author of the "French Revolution," "Sartor Resartus," &c. 1 vol. 12mo., beautifully printed on fine white paper. Contents—The Hero as Divinity, Odin, Paganism, Scandinavian Mythology ; The Hero as Prophet, Mahomet, Islam ; The Heroas Poet, Dante, Shakspeare ; The Hero as Priest ; Luther, Reformation, Knox, Puritanism ; The Hero as Man of Letters Johnson, Rosseau, Burns ; The Hero as King; Cromwell, Napoleon, Modern Revolutionism. MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 5 D. Appleton & Co.'s Catalogue continued. SCHLEGEL'S PHILOSOPHY OF HISTORY—The Philosophy of History, in a course of Lectures, delivered at Vienna, by Frederick Von Schlegel, translated from the German, with a Memoir of the author, by J. B. Robertson. Handsomely printed on fine paper. 2 vols. 12mo. "To do a mere reviewer's justice to such a work would require many numbers of our journal. It is quite unnecessary to do more than direct attention to a production which, beyond all others, has contributed to exalt, and purify modern science and literature—a work to which, in the eloquent words of a great man, 'we owe the attempts at least to turn philosophy's eye inward on the soul, and to compound the most sacred elements of its spiritual powers with the ingredients of human knowledge."—Literary Gazette. SOUTHEY'S POETICAL WORKS—The complete collected edition of the Poetical Works of Robert Southey, Esq., LL.D., edited by himself. Printed verbatim from the ten volume London edition. Illustrated with a fine portrait and vignette, 1 vol. royal 8vo. "The beauties of Mr. Southey's Poetry are such that this collected edition can hardly fail to find a place in the Library o every person fond of elegant Literature."—Eclectic Review. "Southey's principal Poems have been long before the world, extensively read, and highly appreciated. Their appearing in a uniform edition, with the author's final corrections, will afford unfeigned pleasure to those who are married to immortal verse."—Literary Gazette. "This edition of the Works of Southey is a credit to the press of our country."—N. Y. Review. TALES FOR THE PEOPLE AND THEIR CHILDREN. The greatest care is taken in selecting the works of which the collection is composed, so that nothing either mediocre in talent, or immoral in tendency, is admitted. Each volume is printed on the finest paper, is illustrated with an elegant frontispiece, and is bound in a superior manner, tastefully ornamented. The following have already appeared uniform in size and style : WHO SHALL BE GREATEST?—A Tale, by MARY HOWITT. 1 vol. 18mo, plates. SOWING AND REAPING: or What will Come of It? by MARY HOWITT. 1 vol. 18mo. plates. STRIVE AND THRIVE: a Tale by MARY HOWITT. 1 vol. 18mo. plates. HOPE ON, HOPE EVER: or the Boyhood of Felix Law . by MARY HOWITT. 1 vol. 18mo. plates. THE LOOKING-GLASS FOR THE MIND: or Intellectual Mirror, being an elegant collection of the most delightful little stories and interesting tales: chiefly translated from that much-admired work L'ami des Enfans; with numerous wood cuts, the twentieth edition. 1 vol. 18mo. THE SETTLERS AT HOME: by HARRIET MARTINEAU. 1 vol. 18mo. FAMILY SECRETS: or Hints to those who would make Home Happy, by Mrs. ELLIS, author of "The Women of England," "Poetry of Life," &c. "The tendency of this book is one of the best and noblest. The scenes and characters are, it is believed, portraits. Aiming as it does at the correction of a too prevalent vice, it is expected that the Family Secrets will command amongst the serious and thinking part of the community as extensive a popularity as Nicholas Nickelby does in its peculiar circle." MASTERMAN READY; or the Wreck of the Pacific. written for Young People, by Capt. Marryat. 1 vol. 18mo. plates. EARLY FRIENDSHIP; a Tale by Mrs. COPLEY. 1 vol. 18mo. plates. In introducing the name of a new writer to this series of popular works, the publishers cannot but express their desire that all who have purchased previous volumes, will buy this, being assured it will commend itself to the reader, so that the name of Mrs. Copley will soon, like the name of Howitt, be a passport to the notice and favour of the whole reading community. These volumes will be followed by others of equal interest; the series, when finished, will form a complete Family Juvenile Library. DEVOTIONAL LIBRARY The greatest care is taken in selecting the works of which this collection is composed. Each volume is printed on the finest paper, elegantly ornamented, and bound in a superior manner, and uniform in size. Bishop Doane says of this collection, "I write to express my thanks to you for reprints of the Oxford Books; first, for reprinting such books, and secondly, in such a style. I sincerely hope you may be encouraged to go on, and give them all to us. You will dignify the art of printing, and you will do great service to the best interests of the country." In a letter received from Bishop Whittingham, he says, "I had forgotten to express my very great satisfaction at your commencement of a series of Devotional Works, lately republished at Oxford." The publishers beg to state, while in so short a time this library has increased to so many volumes they are encouraged to make yet larger additions, and earnestly hope it may receive all the encouragement it deserves. The following have already appeared uniform in size and style: LEARN TO DIE.—Disce Mori, Learn to Die, a Religious Discourse, moving every Christian man to enter into a serious remembrance of his end. By Christopher Sutton, D.D., sometime Prebend of Westminster. 1 vol. royal 18mo., elegantly ornamented. MEDITATIONS ON THE SACRAMENT.—Godly Meditations upon the most Holy Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. By Christopher Sutton, D.D., late Prebend of Westminster. 1 vol. royal 16mo., elegantly ornamented. SACRA PRIVATA: The Private Meditations, Devotions and Prayers of the Right Rev. T. WILSON, D.D. Lord Bishop of Soder and Man. First complete edition. 1 vol. royal 16mo. elegantly ornamented. HEART'S EASE: or a Remedy against all Troubles. with a Consolatory Discourse, particularly addressed to those who have lost their friends and dear relations. By Simon Patrick, D.D., sometime Lord Bishop of Ely. 1 vol. royal 16mo., elegantly ornamented. THOUGHTS IN PAST YEARS: A beautiful collection of Poetry, chiefly Devotional. By the author of the "Cathedral." 1 vol. royal 16mo. elegantly printed. The ensuing volumes of this uniform series will be— DISCE VIVERE, LEARN TO LIVE. By CHRISTOPHER SUTTON, D.D. THE EARLY ENGLISH CHURCH. By the Rev. EDWARD CHURTON, A.M. Edited by the Right Rev. Bishop IVES. CHRISTIAN MORALS. By Professor SEWEL. THE PRACTICAL CHRISTIAN; or Devout Penitent. By R. SHERLOCK, D.D., with a Life of the author by the Right Rev. Bishop Wilson. 6 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER August 1841 WILEY & PUTNAM, IMPORTERS, BOOKSELLERS AND PUBLISHERS, Broadway, New-York, AND PATERNOSTER ROW, LONDON. IMPORTATION OF BOOKS, ENGLISH AND FOREIGN, For Colleges, Public and Private Libraries, &c. &c. SINGLE BOOKS IMPORTED TO ORDER. Orders forwarded by every Steamer and also by the Liverpool Packets, and answered promptly by the return of the first steamer after the receipt if desired. W. & P. would invite attention to the unequalled facilities afforded by their London Agency, (which has now been conducted by Mr. Putnam for several years, his permanent residence being in London,) for procuring English and Foreign Books for Colleges, Public and Private Libraries, Booksellers, and the Public generally, on at least as good terms and with greater dispatch than they have ever before been imported into this country by any other establishment. Orders with references or remittances may be sent direct to the London house if preferred, and books can be shipped thence to any of the principal ports in the United States. Books for Incorporated Institutions pay NO DUTY. All the English Journals, Monthlies, Quarterlies and Newspapers received regularly by the steamers of the first of each month for subscribers, and the principal periodicals kept on hand for sale. AT WILEY & PUTNAM'S Wholesale & Retail Establishment, 161 Broadway, N.Y., may always be found an extensive and choice stock of ENGLISH, FRESH, and AMERICAN WORKS, on the ARTS AND SCIENCES, HISTORY, THEOLOGY AND GENERAL LITERATURE. *** W. & P.'s new Catalogue of British, French and American Books, with prices, (including many scarce and valuable Old Works,) The London Publisher's Circular, Bent's Monthly Literary Advertiser, General Catalogues -- English, French and American -- also, Cheap Lists furnished GRATIS, and transmitted by post to any address that may be given. W. & P. have recently published the following Valuable and POPULAR WORKS. I. A TREATISE on the THEORY and PRACTICE of LAND- SCAPE GARDENING, Adapted to North America; with a view to the IMPROVEMENT OF COUNTRY RESIDENCES. Comprising historical notices and general principals of the art, directions for laying out grounds and arranging plantations, the description and cultivation of hardy trees, decorative accompaniments to the house and grounds, the formation of pieces of artificial water, flower gardens, &c. With remarks on RURAL ARCHITECTURE. By A. J. DOWNING, ESQ. Illustrated with numerous beautiful Engravings on wood. In one vol. royal 8vo. "This being undeniably one of the most elegant volumes ever issued from the American press, we speak of the printing and embellishments first. Both are in the highest style of the arts to which they respectively belong and will bear a favourable comparison with the best English specimens. The author's advice and directions on rural architecture are admirable for their judgment and taste, and indicate a high degree of philosophical reflection and practical observation. In a literary point of view, also, Mr. Downing has acquitted himself very ably, and the enchanting attractions of his subject are crowned with the wreaths of an elegant and graceful style. To all who have country residences, or who are in any wise interested in rural improvements, this work is invaluable." --Mirror. "The work of Mr. Downing, the title of which sufficiently explains its various parts, is a well-timed, judicious exposition of the true principles of taste applied to the improvement of grounds" --Arcturus. 1841 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 7 Wiley & Putnam's Catalogue continued. II. A PRACTICAL TREATISE ON THE DISEASES OF CHILDREN; By JAMES STEWART, M.D. In one volume, 8vo. "This work of our fellow-citizen, Dr. Stewart, is remarkable as well for its highly philosophical character as for its practical usefulness. His arrangement of the affections of children has its foundation in the natural development of the structure -- an important view of disease in the early period of life -- while the treatment is a direct deduction from the principles and theories laid down in the work, evidently of much investigation and personal observation. "The clear and concise style of the author making it a literary production of great merit, and a credit to the medical profession." --Commercial. "We commend this work to the notice of our readers, and to their favour. It evinces industry, research and thought; and it is creditable to the author, and we doubt not that it will both extend and elevate his reputation." -- Bos. Med. & Sur. Jour. "This work will be found indispensable to the practitioner, who wishes to obtain the best established facts and principles in relation to a most important class of diseases." -- N. Y. Jour. of Med. and Surg. III. THE POETRY AND HISTORY OF WYOMING; Containing CAMPBELL'S GERTRUDE, with a Biographical Sketch of the Author, by WASHINGTON IRVING, ESQ. and the HISTORY OF WYOMING, from its discovery to the beginning of the present century, by WM. L. STONE, ESQ. In one beautifully printed vol. 12mo., with nine fine wood engravings, executed in London. "A mass of information." --American "It is a beautiful and valuable volume." --Brother Jonathan. "We have seldom see a book of the kind of which we could so heartily recommend to all our readers." -- N. Y. Evangelist. "This is a delightful book, and as beautiful in its exterior as it is attractive in its contents." --Cour. and Enq. "Calculated to grace the centre table of every America lady, and the library of every American gentleman." -- Phil. Inq. "Col. Stone's book might be read with great advantage in our schools." -- N. Y. Standard. "Col. Stone has well done the work he undertook." -- Phil. U. S. Gazette. "Wyoming has long wanted a faithful chronicler of the deeds of blood and horror once enacted there." -- Phil. N. Amer. IV. THE CRITICAL GRAMMAR of the HEBREW LANGUAGE, By ISAAC NORDHEIMER, Phil. Doct., Professor of Arabic and other Oriental Languages, in the University of New-York. 3vols. 8vo. including Chrestomathy. "His first volume was most favourably noticed by several periodicals both at home and abroad. The second has even a higher claim to commendation, not only for the great beauty and neatness of its execution; but still more for the perspicuity of its style, and the intrinsic excellence of its matter." --Biblical Repository. "To clergymen and others, who would be glad to recover and increase their knowledge of the Hebrew, an attentive study of this work would afford an invaluable aid, and we may add, delightful entertainment." --Bib. Rep. and Prin. Review. V. A COMPANION TO THE BOOK OF GENESIS, BY SAMUEL H. TURNER, D. D., Professor of Biblical Literature and Interpreter of Scripture in the Theological Seminary of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and of the Hebrew language and Literature in Columbia College, New-York. 1 vol. 8vo. "A learned and valuable book, differing entirely in style, arrangement and design, from the laborious exegesis of the same book by Professor Bush. The plan of Dr. Turner consists simply of an analysis of the book, in simple narrative with notes. The analysis extends to about one-third of the book, and includes what we believe is a new, as it certainly is a simple and beautiful translation of Jacob's last blessing to his sons, pronounced in language at once prophetical, and descriptive of the respective characters of the twelve patriarchs. The work, though learned, is adapted to the common English reader, by translations of the numerous and necessary citations of the original." VI. THE THEORY OF HORTICULTURE; Or, an attempt to explain the principal operations of Gardening upon Physiological principles, By JOHN LINDLEY, Ph.D., F. R. S., &c. &c. &c., first American edition, with notes, etc. by Dr. A. Gray, and A. J. Downing, Esq. with numerous illustrations on wood, 12mo. "A vast fund of horticultural learning, and embraces, it is hardly too much to say, nearly all that an intelligent gardener need to know." "We are constrained to believe that it will provide the intelligent gardener and the scientific amateur with correct means of learning the more important operations of horticulture." "The American edition of this valuable work is, in all respects, creditable to the Editors: whose joint labours, it may be remarked, furish, in the present instance, another illustration of the happy combination of scientific theory with practical experience. To the American reader, the notes of the co-editors, which are both scientific and practical, add much to the value and interest of the work; being, for the most part, the results of successful experience, with such additions and adaptations as the climate and circumstances of our country render necessary." WILEY & PUTNAM will speedily publish - I. CATLIN'S MANNERS and CUSTOMS of the NORTH AMERICAN INDIANS - with upwards of 400 spirited Etchings, in 2 vols. royal 8vo. II. AUTOBIOGRAPHY and REMINISCENCES of HIS OWN TIMES - By Col. John Trumbull, with Portrait of Author, from an original painting, done by himself, and about 20 Engravings and Maps, Military Plans, Sketches of Scenery, Costume, Portraits, &c. 8vo. III. LIFE OF RED JACKET, by Col. W. L. Stone, with a Portrait and Engravings, 8 vo. Monthly Literary Advertiser, August 1841 IMPORTANT NEW PUBLICATIONS by J. & H. G. Langley, NEW-YORK I. THE MADISON PAPERS, Comprising his debates in Congress of the Federation of 1782-83, and 1787, with Letters and other extracts; also his Debates in the Federal Convention of 1787. Illustrated by facsimiles of original manuscripts, including that of the Declaration of Independence. Now ready in three large 8vo. vols., printed under the authority of Congress II. THE PROGRESS OF DEMOCRACY, Illustrated in the History of Gaul and France, from the earliest period of the present day. Translated from the French of Alex. Dumas, by an American. "As a historian, our author has displayed eminent ability, as the work now before us abundantly testifies; its style moreover, is the most delightfully interesting, that we remember ever to have met with. " --Knickerbocker. "The political theory of the work is original, striking and beautifully developed." --Phila. Ledger. "One of the most valuable as well as interesting compends that has appeared."---Bostom Atlas III. MISCELLANIES OF LITERATURE, BY J. D'ISRAELI, ESQ, Author of "Curiosities of Literature" New Edition with numerous Additions and Revisions by the Author. In 3 vols. 12mo. "In the volumes before us, there is not an uninteresting line from title page to finis." --Evening Tattler. "It is a work that enchains you from beginning to end; in the perusal of which you feel reluctant to pause, till you find yourself compelled by the unwelcome finis." --Merchants' Magazine "Indeed for casual and curious reading, D'Israeli is incomparable." --N. Y. American IV. DEMOCRACY IN AMERICA, New Edition, in 2 vols., Corrected and Enlarged, with a Map and original Index, By ALEXIS DE TOCQUEVILLE. Translated by Henry Reeve, Esq., with Introductory Prefaces, BY THE HON. JOHN C. SPENCER "This work is one of the most profound and philosophical ever written upon the character and institutions of our country." -Boston Traveller. "As a study of political science, this book stands unrivalled in our time, equally remarkable for lucidity of style, acuteness and delicacy of reasoning and for the moral and intellectual vigor with which it has been conceived and completed." --London Times. "We recommend M. De Tocqueville's work as the very best on the subject of America we have ever yet met with"--Blackwood. "In our deliberative judgement, this is the most original comprehensive and profound treatise that has ever appeared regarding our republic. A treatise which is destined to live and take rank with the masterworks of former ages. It is a text book for those who wish to arrive at a right understanding of the political and social structure of the institutions of our country." --Merchants' Magazine. V. THE MINOR POETS OF ENGLAND, Comprising selections from Hon. Mrs. Norton, Eliza Cook, Morier, R. M. Milnes, Alarica A. Watts, Barry Cornwall, T. K. Hervey, B. Simmons, W. M. Praed, Ebenezer Elliot, Thomas Miller, Leigh Hunt, Alfred Tennyson, John Clare, T. B. Macaley, Professor Wilson, William Motherwell, &c. &c. With Notes, Biographical and Critical, by RUFUS W. GRISWOLD. (In Press.) In one 8vo volume. VI. THE MISCELLANEOUS WRITINGS, of the late WILLAM HAZLITT, ESQ. With a Biographical Sketch of the Author, by Sir E. L. Bulwer, Bart. with Remarks be Sarjeant Talfourd, &c. 2 vols. 12mo. (In Press.) VII. DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLE of the AMERICAN UNION, And its applicability to other Nations by Major G. T. Poussin. Translated from the French by Auguste Davezae, late Charge d'Affaires of the United States to the Netherlands. Nearly ready in one volume. VIII. THE ANTHROPOLOGICAL WORKS of ALEXANDER WALKER. New Complete Uniform Edition in three volumes. "If ever writer, chose an attractive theme, Mr. Walker is certainly that writer. His volumes contain a vast fund of original, profound, acute, curious, and amusing observation, highly interesting to all." --London Literally Gazette. "A rich accession to literature in every shape. The author comes to the performance of his works with qualifications of a high order, and has supported it with extensive philosophical research, and delightful attractions in illustrative anecdote." --Spectator IX. INTERMARRIAGE; Or, the Mode in which, and the Causes why, Beauty, Health and Intellect, result from certain Unions; and Deformity, Disease, and Insanity from others. Illustrated by Drawings. By Alexander Walker. With an Introductory Preface and notes, by an American Physician X. WOMAN; Physiologically considered as to Mind, Morals, Marriage, Matrimonial Slavery, Infidelity and Divorce. By Alexander Walker, author of "Intermarriage" with Notes and an Appendix, adapting the work to this country, by an American Physician XI. BEAUTY; Illustrated chiefly by an analysis and classification of Beauty in Women. By Alexander Walker. With Notes and Explanatory Introduction by an American Physician. "We have read this work with great delight; the subject is treated in a masterly manner. To complete knowledge of the scientific part of his subject, the author adds immense practical information, and an elegance of style rarely found in works of sciences."--London Athenaeum. XII. PLAIN SERMONS; Contributed by the Editors of "The Oxford Tracts for the Times"--with a Recommendatory Notice by the Rt. Rev. Bishop Onderdonk. 2 vols. 12mo. (Now Ready.) XIII. BACCHUS, THE NEW TEMPERANCE PRIZE ESSAY An Essay on the Nature, Causes, Effects and Cure of Intemperance. By Ralph Barnes Grindrod. ----Second American, from the Third English edition. Edited by Charles A. Lee, A.M., M.D., &c. "We never met with a work on any subject more comprehensive; it embraces all possible historical, statistical, medical and moral information on the subject of which it treats, and is so clearly and methodically arranged, that it makes an excellent volume of reference for every library. In its influence, it must be wide as excellent." --Tattler. XIV. LECTURES ON THE HISTORY OF LITERATURE, BY FREDERICK VON SCHLEGEL. "A wonderful performance; better than anything we as yet have on the subject in any language." --Lond. Quarterly Review. "It is alone almost sufficient to make the reader a literary person." --Lit. Gaz. XV. THE SICK ROOM; Or Inquiries concerning the Domestic Management of Sickness in aid of Medical Treatment, BY DR. A. T. THOMPSON, With Notes and Additions by an American Physician. In Press, in one volume 12mo. 10 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. [August, J. & H. G. Langley's Catalogue continued. - XVI. SIR JAMES CLARKE'S NEW WORK : The Sanative Influence of Climate, with an account of the best places of resort for Invalids in England, the south of Europe, &c. By Sir James Clarke, Bart. M.D., F.R.S., with notes and an Appendix, adapting the work to this country, by an American Physician. In 1 vol. 12mo. (In Press) XVII. In one Volume, with Illustrations, THE ANNALS OF THE POOR, By the Rev. LEGH RICHMOND, from the last London Edition. XVIII. A TREATISE ON THE DISEASES OF INFANTS, NEW EDITION IMPROVED. By C. M. BILLARD. Founded on recent clinical observations and investigations in Pathological Anatomy, made at the "Hospice des Enfans-Trouvés," at Paris, with a Medico-Legal Dissertation on the Viability of the Child. Translated from the French, with Notes, by James Stewart, M.D. "The original work of M. Billard has long held the highest rank among treatises on the diseases of children in this country, though there are many to whom it has hitherto been a sealed book, from their ignorance of the French language. This difficulty is now overcome, and in a way to enhance the value of the work ; for it is not merely translated by Dr. Stewart, but enriched with an appendix of valuable comments on M. Billard's descriptions, supplying occasional deficiencies and affording the reader an opportunity of comparing disease as it appears in France and America."---Dublin Journal of Medicine, May, 1840. XIX. THE LIFE AND LAND OF BURNS, BY ALLAN CUNNINGHAM, with contributions by Thomas Campbell, Esq. author of "The Pleasures of Hope," to which is prefixed an Essay on the Genius and Writings of Burns, by Thomas Carlyle, Esq. "This book is invaluable as completing the works of Burns, and as being also illustrative of them."---Cincinnati Gazette. "Written with all a poet's thought and feeling."---Tattler. XX. PHYSIOGNOMY; Founded on Physiology, and applied to various Countries, Professions, and Individuals; illustrated with Engravings. By A. WALKER, author of "Intermarriage," "Woman," "Beauty," &c. With an Introductory Preface, by an American. 1 vol.12mo. (In Press.) XXI. TALES FROM THE ARABIAN NIGHTS' ENTERTAINMENTS. With numerous Engravings. XXII. TALES FROM FROISSART, OR TRUE TALES OF THE OLDEN TIMES. With Illustrative Engravings. XXIII. ROBIN HOOD AND HIS MERRIE FORESTERS. BY STEPHEN PERCY. With Eight Lithographic Drawings. XXIV. NEW WORK ON THE ABORIGINES, In one volume, 8vo. with 24 beautiful outlines. GRAPHIC SKETCHES, from old and authentic works, illustrating the Costume, Habits, and Character of the Aborigines of America. PART SECOND OF THE ABOVE WORK, NEARLY READY. XXV. CANADA IN 1837-'38 ; Shewing by Historical Facts, the Causes of the late Attempted Revolution and its Failure ; the present Condition of the People, and their future Prospects ; together with the personal adventures of the author and others who were connected with him. By Dr. E. A. THELLER. 1841.] MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 11 BARTLETT & WELFORD, IMPORTERS OF ENGLISH BOOKS, ANCIENT AND MODERN, 229 Broadway, (under the American Hotel,) NEW-YORK, HAVE the pleasure of announcing to the public that their new Catalogue of Ancient and Modern Books in every department of Literature and Science, is just published, consisting of more than 4000 different works, and consisting of 15,000 volumes, with the prices affixed. In this valuable collection may be found a choice selection of ENGLISH LITERATURE, embracing the old Prose Writers-all the early Dramatists, Poets, &c.-A large collection of the Greek and Latin Classics, including a set of Valpy's Delphin and Variorum Classics, or vellum paper, in 141 vols. royal 8vo.-A great variety of Voyages and Travels, including the collection of Pinkerton, Churchill, Astley, Harris, Drake and Knox.- A valuable Military Library, collected by the late Col. Gibbs.-A collection of elegantly illustrated Works and Books of Engravings, in which may be found some of the most sumptuous books published in England and France.-In History and Biography, their collection is very large,-while in Theology, it embraces most of the Old Divines, Church Histories, Sermons, &c.- Also all the latest London publications, and the several Publications of the Clarendon Press at Oxford. In books relating to America, their catalogue contains nearly 700 different works, among which are many of great rarity. Specimens of early printed books, some of which are richly illuminated and bear date as early as 1474, &c. &c. Besides the books mentioned in their Catalogue, they are receiving by every packet from London, additions to their stock of old and new books. Gentlemen in the country, Public Libraries, Colleges and Lyceums, can have the above Catalogue, by application, post-paid. The following are a few of their choice Books- ARCHÆOLOGIA, or Miscellaneous Tracts relating to Antiquity, published by the Society of Antiquaries, London, numerous Plates, 24 vols., 4to., half Russia. ASIATIC RESEARCHES, or Transactions of the Society, instituted in Bengal, for enquiring into the History and Antiquity, the Arts, Sciences and Literature of Asia, numerous Plates, 7 vols. 4to. half calf. BARROW'S TRAVELS in China, including a Journey to Pekin; also Journal of Travels in Africa, fine colored Plates, 2 vols. 4to., calf extra, London, 1804. BARRY'S HISTORY OF ANCIENT & MODERN WINES, 4to. BAYLE'S HISTORICAL AND CRITICAL DICTIONARY, 5 vols. folio. BECKMAN'S HISTORY OF INVENTIONS and Discoveries, 4 vols. 8vo. BEDFORD'S SCRIPTURE CHRONOLOGY, demonstrated by Astronomical Calculations. folio, calf BELL'S NEW PANTHEON, or Historical Dictionary of Gods, Heroes, and Fabulous Personages of Antiquity, Plates, 2 vols. 4to. BELOE'S ANECDOTES of Literature and Scarce Books, 6 vols. 8vo. half morocco. BELSHAM'S HISTORY OF GREAT BRITAIN, 5 vols. 4to. half morocco. BENTLEY'S (DR. RICHARD) WORKS, containing his Dissertations on the Epistles of Phalaris, &c., Boyle's Lectures, Critical Works, &c., edited by Rev. A. Dyce, 3 vols. 8vo. BENTHAM'S (JEREMY) WORKS, now first collected by his Executor, John Bowring, 14 vols. royal 8vo. BLAIR'S CHRONOLOGY from the Creation to 1753, 2 vols. folio. BLORE'S MONUMENTAL REMAINS of Eminent Persons. 30 fine line engravings, imp. 8vo. BOISGELEN'S ANCIENT AND MODERN MALTA; with the History of the Knights of St. John, maps and plates, 3 vols. 4to. BOLINGBROKE'S WORKS, by Mallett, including his Letters and Correspondence, Public and Private, not in any other edition, 7 vols. 4to. half calf. BOSWELL'S LIFE OF SAMUEL JOHNSON, including an Appendix and two Supplementary vols. of Anecdotes, and 50 views, portraits, autographs, &c. 10 vols. 12mo. BOSWORTH'S ANGLO SAXON DICTIONARY, imp. 8vo. BOURGOING'S MODERN STATE OF SPAIN, with a view of its Topography,Government, Laws, Finances, Naval aud Military Establishments, Arts, Sciences, Literature, &c. 5 vols. 8vo., and atlas of plates. BOWERS' HISTORY OF THE POPES, from the Foundation of the See to the present time. 6 vols 4to. BOYLE'S (ROBERT) PHILOSOPHICAL WORKS, abridged by Shaw. 3 vols. 4to. BOYDELL's PICTURESQUE SCENERY OF NORWAY, beautiful colored plates, with Observations by Tooke, 2 vols. folio. BRAY'S (MRS.) TRADITIONS, LEGENDS, Superstitions, and Sketches of Devonshire, illustrative of its Manners, Customs, History, &c. in a Series of Letters to Robert Southey, 3 vols. 8vo. BRALYEY'S LONDONIANA, or Sketches of the British Metropolis, 4 vols. post 8vo. BROWNE (SIR THOMAS) the Works of, including his Life and Correspondence, by J. Wilkin, 4 large vols. 8vo. BRYANT'S ANCIENT MYTHOLOGY, 41 plates, 6 vols. 8vo. boards. BRYDGE'S (SIR EGERTON) CENSURA, LITERARIA; containing Letters, Abstracts, and Opinions of Old English Books, 10 vols. 8vo. half Russia. BUFFON'S NATURAL HISTORY, in French, by Lacepede, last and best edition, with 245 plates half calf. BURGHLEY, (CECIL) MEMOIRS of the Life and Administration of, with a View of the Times in which he lived, 3 vols. royal 4to. Portraits. (To be continued.) 12 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. [August, POPULAR WORKS, PUBLISHED BY ROBERT SEARS, 122 NASSAU-STREET, NEW-YORK. TWO VOLUMES PUBLISHED! PICTORIAL ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE B I B L E. Price only $2 per volume. A Beautiful Holiday Present. Four hundred pages 8vo. Fine Paper, handsomely Bound, containing TWO HUNDRED PICTORIAL ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE SCRIPTURES, CONSISTING OF VIEWS IN THE HOLY LAND. Together with many of the most remarkable objects mentioned in the Old and New Testaments, representing sacred historical events, copied from celebrated pictures, principally by the Old Masters ; the landscape scenes from original sketches taken on the spot, with full and interesting letter-press descriptions, devoted to an explanation of the objects mentioned in the sacred text. On examination this will be found a very pleasant and profitable book, especially for the perusal of Young People, abounding in the most valuable information, collected with great care, from the best and latest sources. It may very properly be designated a commonplace book of everything valuable, relating to Oriental Manners, Customs, &c., &c., and comprises within itself a Complete Library of Religious and Useful Knowledge. A volume like the present is far superior to the common Annuals— it will never be out of date. It is beautifully printed on new long primer type—handsomely bound in muslin, gilt and lettered ; and is, decidedly, the best and cheapest publication (for the price) ever issued from the American press. Upwards of EIGHTEEN THOUSAND copies of this work are already in the hands of the public. A list of the numerous recommendations (from many of the most eminent Divines,) of this important work, together with the notices of the public press, can be had in any quantity, of the Publishers. A whole Library for Twelve Dollars. To Clergymen, Teachers of Sabbath Schools and Bible Classes, Students, and Heads of Families. THE CHRISTIAN LIBRARY, Substantially bound, fine paper, consisting of 64 of the most valuable Standard Religious and Scientific Works, elegantly printed, without any alteration, for only Twelve Dollars. In any other form they cannot be purchased for less than SIXTY. They consist of Life of Rev. Henry Martyn; Practical Piety ; Progress of the Gospel in Polynesia : Civilization and Christianization of Smith Africa; Christian Researches in Asia; the Christian Philosopher ; the Difficulties of Infidelity ; Lyttletim on the Conversion of St. Paul ; Life of Rev. Rowland Hill ; Life of Rev. John Elliot ; Life of Rev. William Tennent ; Manly Piety, in its Principles; Manly Piety. in its. Spirit ; Christian Experience; Eternity Realized; The Christian Keepsake; The Anxious Inquirer ; A Moral Demonstration ; The Rectory of Valehead ; Memoirs of Mrs. Judson ; Life of Rev. George Whitfield ; Life of Rev. John Newton ; Life of the Earl of Rochester : Force of Truth ; Natural Theology ; The Christian Warfare ; A Dissertation on Miracles; Communion with God ; Pleasing God ; The Last Day ; The God of Glory ; Redemption ; Manly Piety in its Reali-zations; Iceland ; The Philosophy of Religion ; An Apology for the Bible; The Glory of the Age; Life of Wesley ; I.ife of William Cowper ; Life of Rev. Thomas Spencer; Life of Melancthon'; Memoirs of Rev. S. Pearce; Martha ; Pascal's Thoughts on Religion; Visit to the American Churches; A Discourse on Natural Theology ; The Christian Contemplated ; Memoirs of Swartz ; The Marys; The Complete Duty of Man ; Christian Charity Explained ; The Family Monitor; The Christian Father's Present ; The Mental Illumination and Moral improvement of Mankind ; Sacra Private ; Travels in the Holy Land ; Travels on the Continent ; Journey in the Zoolu Country ; Researches in Syria and Palestine ; The Marthas; The Love of the Spirit ; The Reasonableness of Christianity ; Lives of the Apostles; Remains of Rev. Mr. Cecil. IN PRESS, And will be published in a few weeks, a new and attractive book, entitled "EASTERN ARTS AND ANTIQUITIES," with numerous beautiful engravings. Price One Dollar per copy. It will contain more than 400 pages and about 130 engravings. The design of the work is to furnish such information, as shall assist the reader to understand the figures and other allusions to customs and circumstances peculiar to the East, which abound in the pages of Scripture. ALSO BIBLE QUADRUPEDS; AND THE THIRD VOLUME 0F Pictorial Illustrations of the Bible. 1841.] MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 13 E. L. CAREY & A. HART'S, CATALOGUE OF OLD AND RARE BOOKS,-July 1, 1841. To Book Collectors, Societies, Institutions, &c. &c. On the 1st of July, will be published a Catalogue of VALUABLE OLD BOOKS in good condition, comprising one of the largest and Best Collections imported into this Country. Comprising USEFUL AN D SCARCE WORKS IN ALL CLASSES OF LITERATURE, with the prices affixed. To which is added a list of MODERN ENGLISH BOOKS, Recently imported and for sale by CAREY & HART, Corner of 4th 4. Chesnut-streets, PHILADELPHIA. The above can be had GRATIS, on application (post.paid) to CAREY & HART, Publishers and Importers. SAMUEL COLMAN, HAS OPENED AN OFFICE No. 14 John-street (up-stairs) near Broadway, As an AGENT for Publishers and the Public, and has recently published A WEEK IN WALL-STREET; By ONE WHO KNOWS. Price 50 Cents. Also THE LIFE OF SWEDENBORG, Compiled by Rev. B. F. BARRETT, for readers generally. THE POETS OF AMERICA, Volume second, completing the work commenced last year, will be published in season for the Fall Trade. It will be edited by John Keese, and will be more beautifully illustrated than the first, but in the same style, to match. A part of the edition will be bound in rich muslin at a low price, and the balance, in the best Turkey morocco. S. C. will also have the publishing of the The New- York Comic Almanac, for 1842, and the CHILD'S GEM, for 1842, A new and beautiful volume. Orders from the Trade solicited for any and all of the above, in exchange, or for Cash. The Depository for the WRITINGS OF SWEDENBORG, and of New Church Books generally, is kept by S. COLMAN, Agent for the Trade, 14 John-street, opposite Thorburn's. New-York, June, 1841. 14 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. [August, 1841.] JAMES P. GIFFING, PUBLISHER & WHOLESALE BOOKSELLER, 56 Gold Street, NEW-YORK, PUBLISHES THE FOLLOWING VALUABLE & INTERESTING WORKS. 1 vol. 12mo., 3d edition, numerous cuts, LECTURES ON PHRENOLOGY, By GEORGE COMBE, Esq., including its application to the present and prospective condition of the United States. With Notes, an Introductory Essay, and an Historical Sketch. By Andrew Boardman, M.D. These Lectures are by its greatest living teacher. The fulness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness of the reports, taken in connection with the notes, the introductory essay, and the historical sketch, render it the best introduction to Phrenology which has appeared in any language. To Americans it possesses peculiar interest, containing as it does, observations on their habits and institutions, by a highly observant, generous and philosophical mind. 1 vol. 12mo., 2d edition, 27 cuts, PRACTICAL PHRENOLOGY. By SILAS JONES, Principal of the Institute for the Blind. In 1 vol. 12mo. PHRENOLOGY VINDICATED AND ANTI-PHRENOLOGY UNMASKED. By CHARLES CALDWELL, M.D. Illustrated by a large and perfect view of the Frontal Sinuses. "We are glad to see this book. Dr. C. has performed his work with thoroughness and energy, and all who read will find his promises faithfully performed"---American Phrenological Journal. 1 vol. 12mo., 4th edition. THE POETS OF AMERICA, Illustrated by one of her Painters. Edited by John Keese. This volume is designed specially for a presentation or GIFT BOOK, and is admirably adapted to all seasons, and commends itself in particular to lovers of literature and the fine arts. The selections are, generally, entire pieces, from the best authors ; there are 36 pages of illustrations, strictly original, and etched on Steel, in the best style of the art. The paper is of the finest quality, and the binding, corresponds with the whole. "The Poets of America is beautiful, as beautiful as taste and genius can make it, and there is exceeding merit in its matter. The sweet minstrelsy of Halleck, Drake, Brainard, Percival, Bryant, Willis, Sprague, Pierpont, Sigourney, Gould, Sands, etc., delightfully illustrated, will be found in this volume "---Albany Evening Journal. "It is with pleasure, not unmingled with a dash of national pride, that we call attention to this American Gem, or rather this string of Pearls so gracefully arranged by Mr. Keese."---Po'keepsie Journal. In 2 vols. 12mo. HYPERION, A ROMANCE, By the Author of Outre Mer. "This is a remarkable book. Professor Longfellow will add to his fame by this work. It is rich in the treasures of learning and in the hues of a brilliant imagination, with much of that peculiar humour which belongs to German literature.---Providence Journal. THE JUBILEE OF THE CONSTITUTION. A Discourse delivered at the request of the New-York Historical Society, by John Quincy Adams. This is an eloquent and elaborate discourse, not destined, like most of its class, to pass away and be forgotten with the occasion that gave it birth, but to be preserved and referred to as a valuable historical document. It contains a succinct and luminous view of the causes which led to the Declaration of Independence, of the defects of the confederacy, of the formation of the constitution and of the administration of General Washington. It is full of political wisdom, the gathered harvest of a long life, of reflection and observation, and of warnings and encouragements which derive additional weight from the venerable age and high character of the distinguished speaker. MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 15 James P. Giffing's Catalogue continued. BOOKS FOR THE YOUNG. THE BOY'S COUNTRY BOOK. Edited by WILLIAM HOWITT, and illustrated with twenty-four of the most beautiful designs executed on wood in the first style of the art, by Chandler, Wright and Mallory. The Boy's Country Book, being the real life of a country boy, written by himself, exhibits all the amusements, pleasures and pursuits of children in the country. The above book is among the most excellent and capital books of the kind ever printed. It is full of delightful anecdotes, tales, experiments and plays, admirably adapted to the young. Bound in neat style. PARLEY'S GIFT FOR THE YOUNG. In which Mr. Parley brings forth from his original treasures, interesting Tales and instructive Fables; embellished with 20 spirited wood engravings. PETER PARLEY'S PICTURE BOOK. Written expressly for little folks in a charming style, embellished with 40 extra pretty Pictures. PETER PARLEY'S BOOK OF POETRY. This little volume consists in part of selections from various publications, and in part of original articles written for it, and Mr. Parley observes that "he hopes his little readers will find many things to please, and that they may love truth, kindness, gentleness, religion and virtue, better after reading it, than before." GIRLS' OWN BOOK, By Mrs. CHILD. This volume has been seen, read, and put in practice by some, for ten years—and the more it is examined and proved, the more satisfaction it gives. It is one of those peculiar sort of books that never get out of date or undesirable. A MOTHER'S LIBRARY FOR LITTLE FOLKS, Original and select, edited by a Lady. Vol. 1. Contains Willy's Rambless to see the House building, and what he heard and learned about it. Vol. 2. Is the Birthday Gift—comprising simple stories, in short and easy words, and adapted to the cultivation of the affections. Vol. 3. Is Mrs. Follen's Little Songs for the nursery. Vol. 4. Is The Play House and Work Shop, containing a description of various useful things, as well as amusing for the nursery. MY LITTE FRIENDS, A collection of useful stories in prose and verse, original and selected, by Mrs. C. GILMAN, illustrated with very fine engravings. PLANTS AND BIRDS, Or conversations between Mary and her Mother, on some kinds of Birds, and some useful Plants, illustrated with coloured engravings. What child is not fond of flowers, birds, and Butterflies? To encourage them in a task for searching and examining into the beautiful and wonderful works of Creation this little volume has been written. THE CHILD'S GEM. By a Lady. No. 1. Embellished with 6 superior engravings from steel. " A Diamond Treasure." No. 2. Embellished with 12 Fine Wood Engravings. Each No. is complete in itself, but bound in same style, to match. J. P. G. has also in press, and will speedily publish, AN ANNUAL FOR 1842, entitled THE DAHLIA; Or MEMORIAL OF AFFECTION, With illustrations from steel plates, to be bound in a superior style. RAMBLES AND REVERIES. By H. T. TUCKERMAN, in 1 vol 12mo. THE VALUE OF TIME. By Mrs. BARWELL, Author of "Little Lessons for Little Learners," &c. with eight pretty cuts. New-York, July 20, 1841. 16 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. (August, VALUABLE WORKS PUBLISHED BY THOMAS, COWPERTHWAIT & CO., Philadelphia. MITCHELL'S AMERICAN SYSTEM OF STANDARD SCHOOL GEOGRAPHY, IN A SERIES: Adapted to the progressively developing capacities of Youth. I. MITCHELL'S PRIMARY GEOGRAPHY, Containing 120 Engravings and 14 Coloured Maps, designed as a first book of Geography for Children. I I. MITCHELL'S SCHOOL GEOGRAPHY, Accompanied with an Atlas, containing 18 Maps, engraved from Original Drawings, and executed in a clear and distinct manner. III. MITCHELL'S ATLAS OF OUTLINE MAPS, (An accompaniment to the School Atlas,) possessing all the advantages to be derived from map-drawing, with a great saving of time. IV. MITCHELL'S GEOGRAPHICAL READER, Designed as a reading book for Classes using the School Geography, or for pupils further advanced : an important feature of this work is, that its introduction into schools can be effected without additional cost, by dispensing with other reading books. This will bring it within the means of the humblest pupils, and enable our whole population to acquire an accurate knowledge of the science. V. MITCHELL'S KEY TO THE STUDY OF THE MAPS, Comprising his ATLAS; in a series of Lessons for beginners in Geography. VI. MITCHELL'S HIGH SCHOOL GEOGRAPHY, WITH AN ATLAS, (In press,) will contain about 600 pages, and comprise a complete system of Mathematical, Physical, Political, Statistical, and Descriptive Modern Geography, together with a compendium of Ancient Geography, and the whole will be illustrated by Views, representations of remarkable natural objects, Illustrations of Costumes, Architecture, Races of Men, Animals, &c. The whole of the Engravings executed by the first artists of the country. • The Atlas to accompany the above, will contain not less than 30 Maps, constructed particularly for the work, and designed to correspond with and illustrate it in the most precise manner. The Maps will be engraved in the neat and distinct style for which those of " Mitchell's School Atlas" are distinguished ; they will contain, however, in some respects, a greater amount of detail, and such additional particulars as the higher and more advanced grade of tuition for which they are intended may demand. VII. ENCYCLOPEDIA AMERICANA. In 13 vols. 8vo. VIII. HUME, SMOLLET, and MILLER'S HISTORY of ENGLAND. In 4 vols. 8vo., with Engravings. IX. MILMAN, HOWITT, and KEAT'S POETICAL WORKS, In 1 vol. 8vo. X. CURIOSITIES of LITERATURE. By J. D'ISRAELI. In 1 vol. 8vo. 1841.] MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 17 MEDICAL WORKS PUBLISHED BY HASWELL, BARRINGTON & HASWELL, PHILADELPHIA. Andral's Medical Clinic : Diseases of the Encephalon, Spinal Cord, &c. &c. Bryant's Anatomical Examinations. Burne on Habitual Constipation - its Causes and Consequences. Clutterbuck's Lectures on Blood-Letting. Collin's Practical Treatise on Midwifery. Cooper's, Sir A. Lectures on Surgery, new edition. Curling's Treatise on Tetanus —Bouillaud on Acute Articular Rheumatism in general. Translated from the French, by James Kitchen, M.D., 1 vol. Cutler on Bandaging, with 100 Engravings. Edwards' on the Influence of Physical Agents on Life with Observations on Electricity, &c. Epidemics of the Middle Ages, viz. the Black Death and Dancing Mania; translated from the German of Hecker, by Dr. Babington, F.R.S. Essays on Physiology and Hygiene : by Reid, Ehrenberg, Stromeyer, Muller, etc. Evanson and Maunsell on the Management and Diseases of Children. Freckleton's Outlines of General Pathology. Gooch's Midwifery, 8vo , new edition. Holland's Medical Notes and Reflections. Horner's , Medical and Topographical Observations, with Engravings. Hunter on the Blood, Inflammation and Gunshot Wounds, with Engravings. -on the Teeth, with Engravings. -on the Venereal Disease, with Engravings. -on the Animal Economy. Hunter's Principles of Surgery. -Life, by Drewry Ottley. -Complete Works, edited by James F. Palmer, numerous Engravings, 4 vols. 8vo Laycock's Essay on Hysteria, with numerous Illustrative and Curious Cases.—Esquirol on Mental Diseases, I vol. Lee's Observations on the Principal Medical Institutions and Practice of France, Italy, and Germany, &c. with an Appendix an Animal Magnetism and Homceopathy. Johnston s Syllabus of Materia Medica.—Latham's Lee-tures on Clinical Medicine, 1 vol. Macartney on Inflammation. Megendie's Lectures on the Blood: its Changes during Disease, &c. Marshall's Practical Observations on Diseases of the Heart, Lungs, Stomach, Liver, &c.—Weatherhead on Diseases of the Lungs, 1 vol. Millingen's Curiosities of Medical Experience. Plumbe on Diseases of the Skin, with Engravings. Prichard on Insanity and other Diseases affecting the Mind. Ricord's Practical Treatise on Venereal Dis-order., &c.-Amussat's Lectures on the Retension of Urine, translated from the French, by James P. Jervey, M.D., I vol. Stokes's Lectures on the Theory and Practice of Physic. With numerous Notes and Twelve additional Lectures on the Institutions of Medicine and Medical Jurisprudence. Williams's Lectures on the Physiology and Diseases of the Chest, with Engravings. Willis on urinary Diseases, and their Treatment Every American's Book. SECOND EDITION OF THE PRESIDENTS' ADDRESSES AND MESSAGES, FROM WASHINGTON TO TYLER. To which is prefixed the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States and the Amendments Just published by E. WALKER, Bookbinder Jr Publisher, 112 & 114 FULTON-STREET, and Sold by all the Booksellers All descriptions of plain and elegant Bookbinding carefully attended to. Music and Periodicals uniformly and substantially bound. Portfolios made to order, at very moderate prices. SAXTON & PEIRCE (Old Stand of Richardson, Lord 4- Holbrook,) PUBLISHERS, & WHOLESALE & RETAIL DEALERS IN SCHOOL, THEOLOGICAL, MUSICAL, AND MISCELLANEOUS BOOKS, STATIONERY, &c. 1331/2 WASHINGTON-STREET, BOSTON S. & P. publish, the following :— TWO HUNDRED PICTORIAL ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE BIBLE AND VIEWS IN THE HOLY LAND. Two Volumes, 8vo. Vol. 1, 15,000, sold since December last. Second volume just issued. Price only Two Dollars per volume. THE VESTRY SINGING BOOK. Being a selection of the most popular and approved Hymns, and Tunes now extant ; designed for Social and Religious Meetings, Family Devotion, &c. Compiled by ASA FITZ and E. B. DEARBORN. PROVIDENCE ILLUSTRATED, or Interesting Stories from the German. MY LITTLE SINGING BOOK, designed for Sabbath Schools, &c. THE MUSICAL REPORTER, LADIES' PEARL, &c. &c. 18 Monthly Literary Advertiser. [August, 1841.] VALUABLE WORKS RECENTLY PUBLISHED BY C. C. LITTLE & J. BROWN, BOSTON. I. HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES FROM THE DISCOVERY OF THE AMERICAN CONTINENT. In 3 vols. By GEORGE BANCROFT. The First Part of this work, embracing the History of the Colonization of the United States, is now completed. It forms three volumes 8vo., and contains the account not only of the settlement of the thirteen original states, but of the Spanish set- tlements in Florida, and the French discovery and colonization of Michigan and Wisconsin ; the discovery of the Mississippi, the Colonization of Illinois and Indiana, of Mississippi and Louisiana, and the attempts at colonizing Texas by La Salle. The topics most interesting to the people of the great valley of the Mississippi are delineated more fully than in any American work, and from original sources. II. HISTORY OF THE REIGN OF FERDINAND AND ISABELLA, THE CATHOLIC. By WILLIAM H PRESCOTT. With splendid Portraits and Maps. In three volumes 8vo. 7th edition. In this edition the publishers have added a Map for the War of Grenada and for Gonzalvo de Cordova's Campaigns in Italy. "The history of Spain cannot boast a more useful or admirable contribution since the publication of the great work of Robertson."—British and Foreign Review. "Bold indeed it is ; but in our judgment eminently successful. On such works we are content to rest the literary reputation of the country."—North American Review. III. THE POETICAL WORKS OF EDMUND SPENSER, in 5 volumes, 12mo., first American edition, with introductory observations on the Faery Queen, and notes by the Editor. A few copies beautifully printed on large paper octavo. Copies in fine binding for presents, &c. IV. THE WORKS OF EDMUND BURKE, in nine volumes, octavo. "The present edition of Burke's works is more complete than any one which has hitherto appeared either in England or America. It comprises the entire contents of the English edition of his works in sixteen octavo volumes, including two volumes of speeches on the trial of Hastings, published in 1827, and which have never before been republished in this country.— It also contains a reprint of the work entitled "An account of the European Settlements in America, " first published in 1761, which, though published anonymously, is well known to have been written by Burke, and also the correspondence with French Laurence, which are not contained in the English edition of his collected works. V. A MANUAL OF POLITICAL ETHICS, Designed Chiefly for the use of Colleges and Students at Law ; Part First, containing Book 1. Ethics General and Political ; Book II. The State. By Francis Lieber. 2 vols. 8vo. VI. LEGAL AND POLITICAL HERMENEUTICS, Or Principles of Interpretation and Construction in Law and Politics, with Remarks on Precedents and Authorities. Enlarged edition. 12mo. By FRANCIS LIEBER. VII. HISTORY of the COLONIZATION of the UNITED STATES. By GEORGE BANCROFT. Abridged by the Author for School Libraries and Schools. 2 vols. 16mo. This Abridgment is designed for the young. Its object is to put within the reach of the schools of the country a sufficiently full account of the settlement of every one of the States. This Abridgment contains not only by the history of the Colonization of the Atlantic States, but of the French settlements from Canada to Louisiana. The attempt has been made to omit everything beyond the ready comprehension of an intelligent class of scholars, and to furnish an exact, and if possible, an interesting continued narrative, suitable for a class-book in reading, or as a manual for instruction. VIII. MECANIQUE CELESTE, by the MARQUIS DE LA PLACE, Translated by Nathaniel Bowditch LL. D., to which is prefixed a life of Dr. Bowditch, with Portraits, &c. &c. Complete in 4 volumes, royal 4to. A few sets of this great work, now recently completed, may be had if applied for soon. As it never will be reprinted, Public Libraries and individuals, who may wish to possess it, will do well to send their orders without delay. IX. ORATIONS AND SPEECHES ON VARIOUS OCCASIONS. By EDWARD EVERETT. 1 vol. 8vo. X. DRAMAS, DISCOURSES, AND OTHER PIECES By JAMES A. HILLHOUSE, 2 vols. 16mo. MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. 19 WORKS IN PRESS Or in Active Preparation, BY CHARLES C. LITTLE & JAMES BROWN, BOSTON. I. THE PHILOSOPHY OF STORMS, By JAMES P. ESPY. 1 vol. 8vo. II. THE LETTERS OF MRS. ADAMS, Wife of John Adams. With an Introductory Memoir by her Grandson, Charles Francis Adams. 2 vols. 12mo. III. COMMENTARIES ON THE LAW OF EVIDENCE. By Simon Greenleaf, L.L. D., Royal Professor of Law in Harvard University. In one vol. 8vo. IV. COMMENTARIES ON THE LAW OF PARTNERSHIP. By Joseph Story, LL.D. 8vo. V. A TREATISE on the LAW of PRIVATE CORPORATIONS. By Joseph K. Angell. 8vo. Second edition. VI. A TREATISE on the RIGHT of PROPERTY IN TIDE WATERS. By Joseph K. Angell. 2d edition. Revised, with a general alteration in the manner of treating the subject, and comprehending the English and American decisions made since the publication of the 1st edition. VII. REPORTS of CASES ARGUED and DETERMINED in the SUPREME JUDICIAL COURT of MASSACHUSETTS. By Theron Metcalf, [successor to Pickering,] Vol. 1., part 2., which completes the volume, will be ready 10th July. VIII. REPORTS of CASES ARGUED and DETERMINED in the SUPREME JUDICIAL COURT of MASSACHUSETTS. By Octavius Pickering, Esq. Vol. .9 Second Edition ; with Notes and References, by J. C. Perkins, Esq. IX. A DIGEST Of the 17 vols. Massachusetts, and 23 vols. Pickering's Reports, complete in 1 vol. 8vo., will be published as soon as Mr. Pickering prepares for the press the 10th and 23d volumes, now wanting to complete his Reports. X. Just Published, THE OLD CHRONICLES of PLYMOUTH COLONY, in NEW-ENGLAND, Now first collected from unpublished manuscripts, and contemporaneous printed documents ; illustrated with Historical and Biographical Notes. By the Rev. Alexander Young of Boston, Member of the Massachusetts Historical Society. With a head of Gov. Edward Winslow, from an original portrait painted in 1651. The value and interest of this work will be greatly enhanced by the fact, that it will contain an authentic narrative of the origin and settlement of the Colony, written at the time by the first planters themselves. Mr. Young has fortunately recovered the most important part of Gov. Bradford's lost history of the Plymouth people, and has other documents written by Bradford and Winslow, some of which have never been printed, and others are wholly unknown in this country. This work will be a prior document to Morton's New-England's Memorial, and will constitute the beginning and foundation of our history . 20 MONTHLY LITERARY ADVERTISER. [August, BOOKS PUBLISHED BY HILLIARD, GRAY, 86 CO. BOSTON. AESHINES' AND DEMOSTHE NES' CROWN ORATIONS, with English notes, by IN NEGRIS ; a new stereotype edition, sheep. ALLEN'S EASY LESSONS IN GEOGRAPHY, stereotyped edition, half bound. BOYER'S FRENCH AND ENGLISH DICTIONARY, stereotyped edition, sheep. BAYLIES' HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, 2 vols. boards. BOURDON'S ALGEBRA, by Professor Farrar, boards. COLBURN' ARITHMATIC, half bound. " PLATES to do., paper. " SEQUEL, sheep. " KEY TO SEQUEL, half bound. " ALGEBRA, sheep. " KEY TO ALGEBRA, half bound. " FIRST LESSONS IN READING AND GRAMMAR, half bound. " SECOND LESSONS in do., half bound. " THIRD LESSONS in do , half bound. " FOURTH LESSONS in do., half bound. CALCULUS, new edition, boards. CAMBRIDGE MATHEMATICS, by Prof. Farrar, 2 vole. sheep. 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Anthon's Classical Dictionary (133) A Classical Dictionary, containing an Account of the principal Proper Names mentioned in Ancient Authors, and intended to elucidate all the important points connected with the Geography, History, Biography, Mythology, and Fine Arts, of the Greeks and Romans, together with an Account of the Coins, Weights, and Measures, with Tabular Values of the Same. -- By Charles Anthon, L.L.D., Jay-Professor of the Greek and Latin Languages in Columbia College, New York, and Rector of the Grammar School. "Huc undique gaza." -- Virg. VI. The Boy and his Angel. -- By Mrs. C. M. Sawyer (143) VII. The Conspiracy of Cataline. -- By A. Davesaz, Esq. (144) VIII. The Antiquities of Central America (162) Incidents of Travel in Central America, Chiapas, and Yucatan. -- By John L. Stephens, Author of "Incidents of Travel in Egypt, Arabia Petrea, Syria, and the Holy Land." -- Illustrated by Numerous Engravings. -- 2 vols. 8vo. IX. Death in the School-room -- A Fact (177) X. 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Monthly Financial and Commercial Article (203) THIS NUMBER CONTAINS SIX AND A HALF SHEETS. [[Left Page]] [[Blank]] [[/Left Page]] [[Right Page]] THE UNITED STATES MAGAZINE AND DEMOCRATIC REVIEW. -- VOL. IX. AUGUST, 1841. No. XXXVIII. -- THE REPEAL QUESTION. The present conjuncture in our political affairs invokes attention to the subject of legislative control over acts of incorporation. The combination of political factions and pecuniary interests which has attained a temporary ascendancy in the government of the republic, is striving to enthrone a powerful monopoly in absolute supremacy over all the business relations of the community. The probably success of a scheme so inconsistent with every enlightened notion of political economy, so repugnant to the fundamental principals of our civil institutions, and so fraught with practical mischief to all kinds of business, excites inquiry as to the nature and efficacy of the remedy which may be applied with the present dominant party shall have accomplished its work of evil, and returned to its natural and destined minority. We design, therefore, to take a cursory review of the question of the repealability of acts of incorporation ; and we shall consider it, not merely in the form in which it is presented by the case which gives occasion to the discussion, but with reference to the general principles which it involves. The doctrine is maintained, that acts of incorporation are contracts of the government with the corporations, which cannot be rescinded except with the consent of the latter - in the case of the States, without a violation of a positive provision of the Constitution, and in the case of the federal government, without a breach of the public faith. A law and a contract are in their natures essentially different. A law is a rule prescribed by a superior to an inferior ; a contract is a voluntary agreement between equals. A law imports power and command in one party, necessity and submission in the other ; a contract imports volition and independence in both parties. [[/Right Page]] 108 The Repeal Question. [August, This distinction is regarded in the acts of governments. In the conveyance of the ordinary subjects of private property by a legislature and under a law, the same formalities are employed as in such transactions between individuals. The United States grant lands by a patent, which is an instrument authenticated by the public seal and the signature of the President, and similar in its general character and formalities to a deed of an individual. The State of New York grants and receives lands by patents and deeds. In the ordinary cases of contracts between governments and individuals, the usual forms of private transactions are adhered to. An act of incorporation purports to be, not a contract, but a law ; it has none of the forms of a contract, but all the forms of a law. A construction of an instrument which changes its whole character, the relations of its parties, and its legal effect, can be admitted, if at all, only on the clearest and strongest evidence. Is there anything in the case of an act of incorporation to justify the application to it of a construction so extraordinary ? Is there anything in the nature of the rights conferred which has such an effect ? A corporation is a mode of association in which several persons exist and act, in law, for certain purposes, as a single individual. It is hence called an artificial person. Its ordinary incidents are, to have an uninterrupted succession of its members ; to have a common name and seal, and to legally act- suing and being sued, and transacting business-by them ; to hold real and personal property ; and to make by-laws for its own government. Limited liability is not essential to the nature of corporations ; and in very many cases, in this country and in England, is not possessed by them. The modes of commercial association are-corporations-limited partnerships-and general partnerships. Each mode has its peculiar right and duties, capacities and disabilities. The essential difference between them is in the extent to which the principle of association enters into their constitution. In the theory of a corporation, the union of the members in a single body is complete ; in that of a partnership it is imperfect. There is nothing in the faculties of a corporation more than in those of a partnership, which requires, to confer them, the exercise of a prerogative of sovereignty superior to ordinary legislation, or which makes the act conferring them of greater solemnity or of a different nature from other laws. A statute which enables a number of individuals to transact business, and to sue and be sued as The Doe Company, is no more of the nature of a contract, than a statute which enables them to transact business as John Doe & Co., and to sue and be sued jointly by their individual names. A statute which gives 1841.] The Repeal Question. 109 them the power to hold real and personal property as corporators, is no more of the nature of a contract than a statute which gives them the power to do so in the same mode as partners may at common law and in equity. A statute which limits the liability of a corporator to the amount of capital invested, is no more of the nature of a contract, than a statute which, in the same manner, limits the liability of a special partner. So it is with all the faculties of a corporation. They are but modes in which several individuals may exercise in common, rights which they possess separately. The corporate mode of association is more simple and convenient, less embarrassed by legal questions, and better adapted to many purposes, than the partnership mode. But this difference of convenience cannot make a statute establishing the one system a mere law, and a statute establishing the other system a solemn contract. There is no reason why the advantages peculiar to corporations should not be enjoyed by all ; and the tendency of recent legislation and judicial construction has been to impose on corporations some of the liabilities of partnerships, and to confer on partnerships some of the capacities of corporations. It is difficult to conceive how a law, which should at once impart to voluntary associations any or all of the faculties which are now peculiar to corporations, could be deemed a contract, and, as such, exempted from the action of the legislature, in case it should afterward be found to require modification or repeal. On the contrary, it is quite obvious that the whole matter is an appropriate subject of civil regulation. Has an act of incorporation the distinctive attributes of a contract more than other laws, and in such a degree as to justify a construction which changes its whole character ? Let us examine the reasoning which is employed to sustain this conclusion. "A charter," says Judge Story, who is the author and ablest advocate of the doctrine which we are considering, "is in form and substance a contract ; it is a grant of powers, rights, and privileges, and it usually gives a capacity to take and to hold property. It confers rights and privileges, upon the faith of which it is accepted. It imparts obligations and duties on the part of the corporators which they are not at liberty to disregard ; and it implies a contract on the part of the legislature, that the rights and privileges so granted shall be enjoyed." A charter, in the original sense of the term, was an instrument, executed in writing and with certain forms, as evidence of things done between the parties. In England, corporate privileges were granted by such instruments form the king, and the term having been adopted form that country by us, has come, by a natural association, to be applied to a statute which confers corporate privileges. 110 The Repeal Question. [August 1841] The word is evidently used, in the sentence quoted, in its original sense ; for it alludes to the form as well as the substance of the instrument. The reasoning, however, is applied equally to acts of incorporation ; for the author had just before remarked that "a legislature may made contracts or grants directly by law," and that "the question is not whether such contracts or grants are made directly by law, in the form of legislation, or in any other form, but whether they exist at all." A grant was an instrument, similar to the primitive charta, originally used to authenticate the transfer of a class of rights known in law as incorporeal hereditaments ; but the term is now equally applied to the instrument (the same in all respects, except as to its subject-matter) which is used in the conveyance of corporeal hereditaments, such as lands. The chain of reasoning by which an act of incorporation is made out to be a contract is this: -- an act of incorporation is a charter ; a charter is a grant ; a grant is an executed contract, that is, a contract of which the object is executed ; an executed contract implies an executory contract, that is, a contract in the ordinary sense of the term, not to reassert the right conveyed. Without testing the tenacity of the other links of the chain, let us inquire, if an act of incorporation be a "grant ?" It confers rights ; but does it impart them with the effect of a law -- or with the effect of a technical grant ? Are the rights held as civil rights bestowed by a law, and subject to be taken away by its repeal -- or as property, lands, for instance, under a formal conveyance? They are bestowed by laws ; and must be considered as ordinary civil rights, unless their nature is so different from that of such rights, and so identical with that of property, as to make a law which imparts them necessarily, in substance, a technical grant. This is the very question we are considering ; we have endeavored to show that their nature does not so differ from that of other civil rights, and we have something more to say on the point. An act of incorporation, it is said, "usually gives a capacity to take and to hold property." More accurately it imparts a capacity to associate property in a particular form with certain peculiar powers and liabilities. This a law of partnership also does ; a law enabling married women to have a separate property, or aliens to possess real estate, does more - it actually confers a capacity. There is a broad distinction between the right to associate property in a certain mode, and the property so possessed. The right to associate it in a corporation, is no more property, in itself, than the right to associate it in a partnership. At common law, on the civil death of a corporation, its real estate reverts to the grantor, its personal estate vests in the people, and the debts due to and [August 1841.] The Repeal Question. 111 from it are extinguished. Consequences so unjust and injurious are no more necessary than on the termination of a partnership, and grew out of the absurd ideas attached to corporations in ages of ignorance and barbarism - ideas from which we are not yet wholly emancipated. The Revised Statutes of New York provide that, on the dissolution of a corporation, its managers at the time being, unless other persons are specially appointed, become trustees for the creditors and stockholders, with power to settle its affairs, pay its debts, and divide its surplus assets among the stockholders. This provision was taken from a conditional recognition of the right of repeal, which was inserted after severe contest in an act of incorporation passed in 1822, we believe, and which established in this State (N.Y.) the practice of making such a reservation. For this assertion of a great public right harmonized with private interests, we are largely indebted to a man then just entering upon public life - the morning of whose career was devoted with youthful ardor to the same noble principles of which, in its meridian, he is an illustrious champion -- Silas Wright, Jr. An act of incorporation "confers rights and privileges on the faith of which it is accepted." So does a law which enables a man to entail his estate - to sell lottery tickets - to engage in the business of banking or insurance - or which lays protective duties - give bounties on production - opens a new business to competition - or removes the restraint on the rate of interest. There is as much of an acceptance of "the rights and privileges" conferred, ans as much of an undertaking to discharge "the obligations and duties" imposed by the formation of a company uder the act of special partnerships, as ther eis in the formation of a corporation under one of our general laws. There is as much an investment of property on the faith of a continuance of the law, in the one case as in the other. And the same thing is substantially true of all the other laws to which we have referred. An act of incorporation "imparts obligations and duties on the part of the corporators which they are not at liberty to disregard." So do all the laws we have referred to impose obligations and duties on those who act under them and receive the benefits of them. An act of incorporation "implies a contract on the part of the legislature that the rights and privileges so granted shall be enjoyed." Why more than the laws which we have cited? No feature of a contract can be pointed out in an act of incorporation which is not equally discernible in many of our laws. The same mode of construction would convert half of our statutes into irrepealable contracts, and a little additional ingenuity the whole of them. There are a few prominent cases in regard to which we have some additional comments to make. 112 The Repeal Question. [August, 1841] A law imposing protective duties offers inducements for the establishment of manufactories on the faith of which individuals invest their property. The "compromise act" of 1833, fixed the periods for which certain rates of duty were to continue. So definite were the expectations it created, that it is often spoke of as if it were a contract to violate which would be a breach of public faith. Private interests are more deeply involved in such a law than in one conferring corporate franchises, inasmuch as a vastly larger proportion of the capital employed is invested in permanent erections, which, if diverted from their intended uses, become nearly valueless. Yet it will not be pretended that such a law is of the nature of a positive contract ; or that it would not be subject to modification at the discretion of the Legislature. An obligation would exist to exercise that discretion with equity toward individuals ; but the nature of the obligation would be that of a legislator, which implies judgment - not that of a party to a contract which is a necessity of acting according to its precise terms. A law creating an office may be regarded as a contract during its term, on the part of the government to pay a specified salary, and on the part of the incumbent to render the specified services. In English law - and even in our own books - offices are classed with corporate franchises, as incorporeal hereditaments ; they are granted from the king by the same instrument, or charta. Like corporate franchises they were sometimes sold ; ad like them they are by the common law a subject of property. No authority or argument can be adduced for considering a statute creating a corporation a contract, which will not apply with equal force to a statute creating an office. Pressed by this reasoning, Judge Story avows the consequences ; and pronounces such a law to be a contract, and, if made by a State, within the constitutional prohibition, and irrepealable during the term of the incumbent.* With all deference for so distinguished a jurist, this doctrine is not American law nor American practice. It has the same origin, and the same hereditary claim to our adoption, as the kindred dogma in regard to corporations, but it has not succeeded in establishing itself upon our soil. "Property in an office," says a recent American work, "is for the most part inconsistent with republican constitutions and principles."** The doctrine that the power which can establish an office can abolish it, and without reference to the term of its incumbent, has been acted on in numberless instances by the States and by the nation. It has been applied as well to cases in which the tenure of the office was during good behavior, *Dartmouth Col. v. Woodward, 4 Wheat. 694. ** Hilliard's Abridgment. [August, 1841.] The Repeal Question. 113 as to those in which it was for a limited period ; and is too firmly established to be shaken. A law establishing a public corporation, is as much a contract as one establishing a private corporation. The reason for the distinction between the cases assigned by Chancellor Kent, that "in public corporations there is in reality but one party," the public, is very unsatisfactory. It is a clumsy expedient to escape the logical consequences of an unsound principle. The city of New York is quite a different "public," from the State of New York. There surely is not such an identity between them as to prevent their being the parties to a contract. An act of the State imparting to the inhabitants of the city corporate capacities, for municipal purposes, is no less of the nature of a contract than an act of the State imparting the same capacities to individual, for commercial purposes. The corporate privileges of New York are more valuable to her citizens than those of any private association to its members ; they are indispensable to the protection of a multitude of private interests ; a wanton withdrawal of them would be as great a wrong ; and a confiscation of the property held under them, would be no less a violation of private rights. The distinction between the mere franchise and the property held under it, which is made by Judge Story in this case, we have already shown to be equally applicable to private corporation. In the English law, from which the ideas we have been combating are derived, no difference is recognised int he natures of public and private corporations ; and the notions of the sanctity and inviolability of corporate franchises which we have inherited, were originally and especially attached to those of a public character. If the consequences of exempting municipal corporations from legislative action would be intolerable, they result inevitably from the general principle, and are to be avoided, not by a false reginement of construction to extricate us from the difficulties in which a false refinement of construction has involved us, but by a correction of the original error. The source of the prevalent fallacies on this subject is easily traced. Charters were originally formal grants, from the sovereign to the subject, of the most important personal and social rights - of which the magna charta is a specimen ; and they were invested with a peculiar sanctity, both from the solemnity with which they were made, and from the nature of the rights which they secured. Even when they conferred corporate franchises, they were essentially of the same character. They erected the inhabitants of a town into a commonalty, with the privilege of having magistrates and a council of their own - of making by- Vol. IX. No. XXXVIII. -- H 114 The Repeal Question. [August, 1841] laws for their own government - of building walls for their own defence-and of establishing a military discipline, as a security against the lawless violence and rapacity of the age* Their necessary effect, in such cases, was to relieve the citizens of those towns from a servile dependence on the nobles for safety; and they often contained provisions of enfranchisement, which converted them from serfs into freemen. Among the earliest of the privileges so bestowed was that of giving away their daughters in marriage without the consent of their lord and of disposing of their property by will, or of having their children succeed to it instead of to their lord. When corporate franchises came to be valuable merely as a convenient mode for associated action for commercial or municipal purposes, the sovereign still retained the right of conferring them; he conveyed them by the same formal instrument; he made them the subject of bargain and sale; he treated them as property. But does it follow that they must, therefore, be property with us, when there is nothing in their nature, or in the act by which they are imparted, to make them such? Can they not by possibility be now mere civil rights? Most legal ingenuity be tortured to construe a law conferring them, into the ancient technical grant? Such a doctrine is not reason; it is not law;it is abhorrent to the principles of the constitution, which is the supreme law. The dicta of individual judges may imply it; the principles, to the adoption of which the Supreme Court has been urged by the strong equities of peculiar cases, may have a perilous proclivity to such a result - principles, the adoption of which has since cost it immense labor of constructive ingenuity to qualify and retract so as to harmonize at all with our institutions; but that court has never yet formally adjudged that an act of incorporation powered by a State is an irrepealable contract. We venture to say that it never will do so; it is far more likely to qualify or retract still further, as it has already done to a large extent, the incautious opinions which might lead to such a step. And, meanwhile, the tendency of legislation and of popular convictions is in the other direction. The States, as New York has done, are asserting the power of legislation over corporations by statute, and inserting a recognition of it in each act conferring such franchises. And by general laws they are making these convenient faculties, with such modifications as the public welfare may require, accessible to all. They are thus carrying out the principle, which was early adopted in this country, of considering them as civil rights, and not as private property; to be imparted by ordinary laws, and not by technical grants. And they had the *Smith's Wealth of Nations, by McCulloch, 203. The Repeal Question. 115 same right to conform to the principles of our government the tenure of existence of private corporations, as they had to do them same thing - which it is confessed they have done - in the cases of officers and public corporations. They were no more bound by the obsolete absurdities of a barbarous age, or by dogmas peculiar to monarchical institutions, in the one case then in the others. Nor is there the least cause for apprehension as to the operation of the American doctrine on this subject. Under it corporate privileges are held by the same tenure as many of the most valuable of our individual rights. The power to legislate in the case does not imply a certainty of abuse, or a right to abuse. It is in this case, as in all others, a trust power, to be exercised for the public good, and with equity toward the individuals peculiarly affected. We pass now from the general question of legislative control over acts of incorporation, to the particular case which has given rise to this discussion. The power of Congress over a law establishing a National Bank is independent of the general questions; it rests on grounds which are peculiar to the case, and which are in themselves impregnable. It is universally conceded that corporations of a public character are subject to the discretion of the legislature. "There is no doubt," says Justice Story, "as to public corporations, which exist only for public purposes, that the legislature may change, modify, enlarge, and restrain them; with this limitations, however, that property held by such corporations shall still be secured for the use of those for whom, and at whose expense, it as been acquired. The principle may be stated in a more general form. If a charter be a mere grant of political power, if it create a civil institution, to be employed in the administration of the government, or if the funds be public property alone, and the government alone interested in the management of them, the legislative power over such charter is not restrained by the Constitution, but remains unlimited."* "A public corporation," says Chancellor Kent, "instituted for purposes connected with the administration of the government, may be controlled by the legislature, because such a corporation is not a contract within the purview of the Constitution of the U.S" ** Nor can the doctrine be sustained, which was recently asserted by Mr. Berrien in the Senate, that a corporation whose general character is public, is a private corporation because it includes some private interests. Every public corporation of whose existence we are aware does so. Even cities, towns, and counties, which are instanced by Chancellor Kent and Judge Story, as pub- * 3 Com. on th eCon. 260. ** 2 Kent's Com. 305. 116 The Repeal Questions [August, 1841.] lic corporations, and which are such, if any exist, are admitted by the latter to "involve some private interests."* "With regard to political corporations," says a recent American work† on this subject, "it is true that they involve some private interests; yet for the reason already given, they are generally deemed public." The public corporation of the city of New York embraces more private interests than any private corporation in the country. The fact that the government holds a part of the stock of a private corporation, does not impart it to a public character;‡ nor does the fact that individuals hold a part of the stock , or that private interests are otherwise implicated, in a public corporation, impart to it a private character. The general nature and design of the institution must determine whether it is public or private. A National Bank is a public corporation, not because the public holds a share of its stock, but because the whole object of its creation is of a public character, and embraces the private interests so far only as is essential to its efficiency as a public institution;— because it is a part of the machinery of government, and exercises high political functions. On this ground only can the constitutional right to establish such an institution be claimed; on this ground exclusively was that right vindicated by the Supreme Court. We quote from the opinion of Chief Justice Marshall in the case of Osborn et al. v. the United States Bank, which states the reasons of the decision in that case, and also in McCulloch v. the State of Maryland, the only other case in which the constitutional question has been directly passed upon: "The foundation of the argument in favor of the right of a State to tax the bank is laid in the supposed character of that institution. The argument supposes the corporation to have been originated for the management of an individual concern, to be founded upon contract between individuals, having private trade and private profit for its great end and principal object. "If these premises were true, the conclusion drawn from them would be inevitable. This mere private corporation, engaged in its own business, with its own views, would certainly be subject to the taxing power of the State, as any individual would be; and the casual circumstance of its being employed by the government in the transaction of it fiscal affairs, would no more exempt its private business from the operation of that power, than it would exempt the private business of any individual employed in the same manner. But the premises are not true. The bank is not considered a private corporation, whose principal object is individual trade and individual profit; but as a public corporation, created for the public and national purposes. That the mere business of banking is, in its own nature, a private business, and may be carried on by individuals or companies, * Dartmouth Col. v. Woodward, 4 Wheat. 668. † Angel and Ames on Corporations. ‡ Marshall, U. S. Bank v. Planters´ Bank, 9 Wheat. 907. The Repeal Question. 117 having no political connection with the government, is admitted; but the bank is not such an individual or company. It was not created for its own sake, or for private purposes. It has never been supposed that Congress could create such a corporation. The whole opinion of the court, in the case M'Culloch v. the State of Maryland, is founded on, and sustained by, the idea that the bank is an instrument which is 'necessary and proper for carrying into effect the powers vested in the government of the United States.' It is not an instrument which the government found ready made, and has supposed to be adapted to its purposes; but one which was created, in the form in which it now appears, for national purposes only. It is, undoubtedly, capable of transacting private as well as public business. While it is the great instrument by which the fiscal operations of the government are effected, it is also trading with individuals for its own advantage. The appellants endeavor to distinguish between this trade and its agency for the public, between its banking operations and those qualities which it possesses in common with every corporation, such as individuality, immortality, &c. While they admit the right to preserve this corporate existence, they deny the right to protect it in its trade and business." The Chief Justice then proceeds to argue that the provisions of the act of incorporation which "authorize it banking operations" are constitutional because "those operations are inseparably connected with the transactions of the government. They enable the bank to render those services to the nation for which it was created, and are therefore of the very essence of its character, as national instruments. The business of the bank constitutes its capacity to perform its functions, as a machine for the money transactions of the government" Nothing can be more explicit. A National Bank is either a public corporation, and, as such, subject to the legislative action of Congress; or the act creating it is unconstitutional, and, ipso facto, null and void. The authority of Congress over a law creating a National Bank differs from that of a State Legislature over acts of incorporation in another important respect. The power of the State in such cases is denied, as inconsistent with the clause of the Constitution of the United States which declares that "no State shall pass any law impairing the obligation of contracts." By a forced and most unjustifiable construction, a law creating incorporations is transformed into a contract, and all future legislation on the part of a State concerning it, is brought within a prohibition which, it is an ascertained fact of political history, was never intended to apply to such cases, But whatever may be the true construction of that prohibition, it does not reach the action of Congress. Of the perfect legal and constitutional competency of that body to modify or repeal, at its discretion, any act of incorporation which it may pass, there is not a shadow of a doubt. The 118 The Repeal Question. [August, only restraint on its action is in the moral obligation to exercise this, as it is bound to exercise all its other powers, for the public good. Nor could a case be presented more imperatively demanding the exercise of an unquestionable power, than the passage of an act establishing a National Bank. Such a law is in itself a violation of the Constitution, which is the most sacred of charters; and a conviction of this fact alone on the part of Congress would render its repeal an inevitable requirement of public duty. The existence of such an institution is every way incompatible with the public welfare. It would effectually exclude from banking the principle of equal freedom, the application of which to that business is the only adequate measure of reform; and would perpetuate in it the principle of monopoly, which has caused all the evils of the present system, and written its history in human suffering. It would concentrate in a few irresponsible capitalists a control over every man's business and every man's property which is utterly inconsistent with individual rights, and ought not to be tolerated in a community of freemen. The successful establishment of a National Bank, moreover, would be the consummation of a great public fraud. Throughout the recent political canvass, the Whigs emphatically repudiated any design, in case of their success, to create such an institution. They selected, as their candidate for the Presidency, Gen. Harrison, who was known to have denied its constitutionality, and who never conceded more to it than to say that he would yield his objections to a clear indication of the public will; and as their candidate for the Vice-Presidency, Mr. Tyler, who was more thoroughly committed against such an establishment than almost any man in the country. In Virginia, the address of their State Convention advocated Gen. Harrison's election on the express ground of his hostility to such a scheme; and in North Carolina, Mr. Badger, a member of the present cabinet, in a speech of which a hundred thousand copies were circulated in that State, emphatically denounced the "charge" against him of being friendly to it, as "false." In New York, Gov. Seward had, in a public message, hesitated opposition; most of the leading Whig presses and speakers of the State, disclaimed the measure; and in the agricultural districts, the assertion that the success of the Whigs would eventuate in its adoption, was treated as a calumny. Even Mr. Clay, who had been an uncompromising advocate of a bank, conceded something to the public sentiment; in his speech at Hanover, he condescended to express an unaccustomed doubt, and to say that if an adequate substitute could be found, which he still thought there could not, he was ready to acquiesce in its adoption. And yet the success of candidates, holding such sentiments, and 1841.] The Shipwreck. 119 advocated on such grounds, is now claimed to be an instruction by the people in favor of the very measure repudiated, so authoritative as even to preclude all discussion of its propriety! And the monstrous pretension is asserted, of a right to foreclose the question against an appeal to the public will, and to fasten on the country, beyond the control of future representatives and of the people themselves, a governmental machinery which can be constitutionally established, if at all, only as a public institution, but which, once established, becomes sacred as a private contract! If such a double fraud could be successfully executed, the forms of popular government would be a wretched farce. Unquestionable as is the right to repeal a law creating a National Bank, and imperative as are the considerations which demand the enforcement of the right, it should be exercised with a careful regard to the interests of individuals. The act which withdraws from the institution all its public franchises should secure to its stockholders the property they have invested, and should leave to it the powers necessary to the settlement of its affairs; and an ample and seasonable notice should given, by the minority, of their intention to appeal to the people on the question, so that the individuals who may afterward voluntarily implicate their interests with the institution, shall do so subject to the popular decision, and shall have as little reason to complain of the exercise of the right of repeal, as we have shown that they have to deny its existence. Upon the issue thus made up, the Democracy must take a solemn appeal to the people, to repudiate an institution which is incompatible with the common welfare and with individual rights; to assert the supremacy of their will over the machinery of government and over their own servants; to rebuke a detestable and dangerous public fraud; to vindicate equality against privilege; and to reclaim to themselves rights without which they cannot be free. ----------- THE SHIPWRECK. BY MRS. L. H. SIGOURNEY. The good ship on the iceberg struck, where northern seas were high,-- And midnight wrapped in ebon veil the chill and starless sky,-- It struck!--what moment was there then to waste in sorrow's strife! When but one bold adventurous rush remained 'tween death and life. The boat! the boat ! it launches forth upon the mountain wave, And leaping throngs, with frantic haste, essay its power to save,-- A fragile thing, it tossing strove amid the wrathful tide, And deep, unuttered pangs were theirs who left that vessel's side. 120 The Shipwreck. [August, 1841.] A moonbeam pierced the heavy cloud, - oh, God! what sight was there! Who stood upon that fated deck, in calm and mute despair! A gentle maiden, just aroused from slumber soft and dear, Stretched her white arms in wild amaze, but found no helper near. In fond adieu, her hand she waved, as if some friend she blessed, Then closer drew her snowy robe, around her youthful breast; And upward to the darkened heaves imploring glances cast, While her rich curls profusely fell, and floated on the blast. All sudden, from his wildering trance, a manly form did start, While a loud agonizing cry burst from his laboring heart; His bloodless lip was deadly cold - strange lustre fired eys eve - "How can I bear a brother's name, yet leave thee thus to die!" He plunged - the crested wave he ruled; he climbed the cloven deck, And clasped her, as the thundering surge swept o'er the heaving wreck; "Sweet sister, 't is they brother's voice - his check is pressed to thing - Together childhood's path we trod - they last dread couch be mine!" Stil looked the moon with pitying eye, all long and silent down, Encircling them with holy light, as with a martyr's crown, Then shrank behind her fleecy veil; - hoarse shrieked th'impetuous maia; The deep sea closed - and where were they? Ask of the angel train! Ah! noble hearts that night were whelm'd beneath the billows high, And temples white with honored years, and woman's love-lit eye, And clinging ti its mother's breast in visions soft and deep, Unwakened innocence went down amid the pearls to to sleep. The slumberers - they who sank that hour, without a struggling breath, With whom the unbroken dream of life so melted into death - Say, turned they not, in deep amaze to seek the scenes of time, When first eternity's dread shore spread out in pomp sublime? Wo, wo was with the living heart! In many a smitten home, Where, in the garniture of grief, the weeping inmates come, Round many a lonely hearth-stone, shall Memory's touch restore The image of the loved and lost, who must return no more. The eye that saw that monster-mass come drifting darkly down, Destruction in its wintery breast, and on its vitreous crown, - The ear that heard the deadly crash, the thunder of the wave, Can never lose the bitter trace, but in the oblivious grave. The rescued man, to listening groups, shall tell the fearful tale, And mute affection clasp his hand, and childhood's cheek be pale, And while, with quickened heart, they bless the great Deliverer's care, The iceberg and the buried ship shall prompt their tearful prayer. L.H.S. 1841.] The Winds. 121 THE WINDS. In former times when the wind blew over the habitations of men, raising clouds of dust to the clouds of vapor above, swaying to and fr the conical head of the Italian poplar, and chasing the dry leaves which lay under the naked trees, the chimneys in the houses and fissures in the doors seemed to sigh or to whimper in suffering; the threes in the field bowed in humility, as to a strong and severe master, who with a ruthless tyranny seemed to delight to tear from the parent-branch, and scatter abroad, the foliage which was their grace and their pride. Such, at least, were the impressions which the voice and motion given by the wind to inanimate objects, excited, alike in the breast of the inhabitant of the lonely country cottage, and in that of the denizen of the crowded city. And certainly there is no superstition which we can more easily conceive in our own century, free as we think it from prejudices, than that which gave a meaning of warning or of threatening, of supplication or of complaint, to the various sounds produced by what we call no-a-days a "current of air," but which was then considered as a kind of powerful, mysterious being called Wind. For even now there is to the imagination of many a person, in the breeze which blows from or towards the sea, something else than a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen, with some carbonic acid and aqueous vapor, which the chemist can analyze, or a mass of elastic fluid sweeping the surface of the globe with a less or greater velocity which the mathematician can calculate. For the sailor's mother, for his sisters, for his wife and children, no change of wind can go by unnoticed; and every modification in its direction or strength must speak to them as distinct a language as the best articulating voice could utter, and more expressive and more impressive, because every sound announces a successful or disappointed hope; while often its fiat may be to decide between death and life. But how different these feelings, however strong, must be from those which similar causes produced in former time,s - when winds were considered as creations of favorable or evil spirits, when a general belief in witches and magicians prevailed throughout all classes, not even excepting those which were the enlightened ones of the time. Nor is this time of darkness so far behind us as some might suppose. As last as the days of Newton, the great messiah of natural philosophy, there were men, and men of learning and of fame, who little dreamed that they would be blamed by posterity for having published in their words, the prevailing opinions H2 122 The Winds. [August, 1841.] of their day, or rather for having acknowledged them as their own. We mention but one out of a great number, because his works were full of interest, and may yet be procured much more easily than those of former and less-known writers. In the year 1662, Father Gaspar Schott, the disciple and devoted admirer of Kircher, published his work, entitled "Physica Curiosa,"* which shows the curious opinions then in general circulation with regard to the causes of natural phenomena. This learned monk, though having himself very sound notions about the nature and causes of winds, thinks it necessary however to examine, whether these phenomena were not produced by angels or demons; and as a believer in the holy books he had to admit that winds were really produced by spiritual beings. And another opinion not less accredited was, that sometimes individuals had the power of enclosing winds in bags, by some magic spell. "And we are told," says Schott, in the said work, "by Claus Magnus, that the Finlanders and Laplanders, among other remarkable things made with the aid of demons, sell to navigators all kinds of winds; that they sell them in bags tied with three knots: in untying the first, a mild breeze begins to blow; by the second, a stronger wind is produced, and the third causes storms to rage." This was written, as we already mentioned, in 1662, which belongs to the most glorious time of the history of natural philosophy; when young Newton had already made his great analytical discovery, and was preparing the complete revolution in physical sciences, which afterward was effected. And Schott was not an ignorant man; he was among the most enlightened of the age.† The errors which his book contains, he had adopted out of reverence for sages of former times: his own opinions bear all the stamp of a sound mind and a clear understanding. In attacking the opinion of Kepler on the causes of winds, which consisted in considering the earth as a large animal, producing winds by its respiration, he shows how little he was inclined in favor of super- natural causes. About the middle of the last century (1746), D'Alembert, the *Physica Curiosa sive Mirabilia Naturæ et Artis, libris XII. Comprehensa, 1662. The first half is filled with details of the same nature as the above one. †Gaspar Schott was born in 1608, in the diocese of Wurtzburg. At the age of 19, he entered the religious order of St. Ignatius. On account of the wars which then desolated Germany, he went to Sicily, and afterward to Rome, where he became acquainted with Kircher. He returned to his native country, after 30 years' absence. His laborious life, his piety, and the simplicity of his manners, made him an object of veneration to both Protestants and Catholics.—(Biographie Universelle.) The Winds. 123 celebrated French mathematician, wrote, under the title of "Reflections on the general Cause of Winds," a small treatise, which was crowned by that already so distinguished scientific body, the academy of Berlin. The following question, proposed by the academy, had given birth to D'Alembert's investigations: "To determine the order and law of the wind, supposing the earth entirely surrounded by a deep ocean: so that the direction and the velocity of the wind would be found for any given place at any given moment." D'Alembert, with the aid of his superior mathematical talents, gave a very satisfactory solution of this question, notwithstanding the great difficulties it presented. Though it is not at present our object to trace the history of the attempts made to elucidate the question of winds, but merely to show which of its phases seemed most important to philosophers at different times, we shall briefly mention the chief features of this interesting treatise. The times had changed since the days and the opinions of Schott. Newton's great discoveries in natural philosophy, and especially on general gravitation, had attracted the attention of philosophers toward physical causes, in the investigation of physical effects ; the glorious success of the great British genius, in accounting for the motions of the celestial bodies, had banished final causes from the dominions of science. The interesting phenomena of tides had been explained by the attraction of the sun and the moon, to the satisfaction of all philosophers. D'Alembert, considering the terrestrial atmosphere as another kind of ocean, covering the whole globe of a fluid less dense, more elastic, and easier to be set in motion, than the lower one, attributed its most constant oscillations to the same causes which produce tides. And he arrived actually by mathematical investigations to the conclusion, that there ought to blow a continuous eastern wind under the equator and in the torrid zone ; while, on the contrary, western winds, sometimes accompanied with gales, ought to prevail in the temperate zone. This treatise, however deserving in a general scientific point of view, could not contribute much to our knowledge on winds. It was not as unfounded a speculation as those of former centuries, but yet a speculation ; as the starting point was a mere hypothetical state of things, the results could be at best but approximations. It is however immensely superior to all attempts made by Schott and the philosophers of that period. It is a real investigation : but not of the right nature, at least inasmuch as physical sciences are concerned. From the attempts made centuries ago, to account for the meteorological phenomena which we comprehend in the general 124 The Winds. {August, expression of Wind, it might be inferred that long since the phenomena which were to be explained were well known. But if we open the modern and most recent publications on the subject we soon discover how erroneous such an opinion would be: for, instead of finding in these mere speculations on the causes which produce winds with all their different characters, we find them on the contrary of an essentially positive nature, filled with descriptions of the new apparatus under the name of anemometers, intended to make us better acquainted with the insensible or sudden changes which take place in the force and direction of the proverbially changeable wind; instead of the general theories of former times, and the criticisms on them, we find accurate descriptions of single storms, which minute statements of the times at which they began to blow in different places, and their directions at a given moment for all those places; in short, histories of the winds which succeeded each other throughout the year, in each particular place of observation, and of some of the strongest gales, extending over a continent, or such a part of the ocean as felt their action. This shows that the science of winds is as yet in its infancy, since, after having attempted for centuries to explain the phenomena by theories, it was at last discovered that our first care ought to be to inquire into the facts of these phenomena themselves. Our country claims the honor of having pointed out, before any other, the road which may lead to the final solution of this important question; and in our country our celebrated Franklin has the credit of having been the first to show what might be done, by his account of a northeast storm, that took place on the 21st of October, 1743* Since Franklin, several other of our countrymen followed the example given by this great observer in tracking the course of northeastern gales throughout the country. Their observations on the subject, published in various scientific papers, furnish still almost the only day which meteorologists of Europe as well as of our own country have at their command in their inquiries into the laws of the winds. This is clearly manifest form and article by Mr. Dove.** of the Berlin Academy, contained in one of the last numbers of Toggendorf's Annals (1841, No. 1). It is entitled, "On the Law of Storms;" and is chiefly intended to establish an assertion made by the author in 1828, stating that all the phenomena accompanying the power power storms may be accounted *Works of Franklin, by J. Sparks, vol iil, 105. **H.W. Dove is well known in Germany, and to all those who take an active interest in the science of meteorology, for his various publications on winds, variations of the barometer and the thermometer. 1841.] The winds. 125 for, by supposing a tornado advancing from the southwest to the northeast. The new proofs in favor of this opinion are taken from "some excellent publications of Mr. Redfield," as the German meteorologist himself states. Or readers will not have forgotten perhaps, that to the opinion of Mr. Redfield, Mr. Espy in Philadelphia opposed another one, which Brandes had made known as early as the year 1820, without being able, however, to support it by so many facts as our countryman was able to collect and cite. This opinion consists in admitting that in storms the wind blows from all quarters toward a central point, which itself however is moving in a certain direction. It may easily be conceived how the same facts serve both these views with an equal satisfaction. In both cases the storm is proceeding with a greater or less rapidity, the wind constantly changing in direction and strength. Mr. Redfield's view of the phenomena, has been more recently strengthened by the observations of Col. Reid, governor of Bermuda. The following facts result from the researches of Redfield and Reid: 1. Storms which arise in the tropical zone, keep their original direction from southeast to northwest almost unchanged, as long as they remain between the tropics: but as soon as they enter into the temperate zone, they undergo an inflexion, so that their direction is almost at right angles with the former, viz. from southwest to northeast. The storm which in the tropical zone increases but slowly in breadth, extends suddenly after the inflexion. Mr. Dove's original purpose in publishing his paper "on the law of storms," was to show that the rotation of the earth is to be considered as the cause of the characters of these storms, as well as of the trade-winds, and the regular changes in the direction of the wind with the seasons, in both hemispheres. We give here his explanations as well as possible without diagrams. Supposing that by any cause a mass of air be propelled from the equator towards the north, with an original direction perpendicular to the equator. This mass of air would move towards the pole, if the earth had no rotatory motion, and if no winds were blowing in a straight transversal direction. But, in consequence of the rotatory motion of the earth, it will tend toward the northeast, or rather toward some point between north and east; for coming from the equator it has a greater velocity than the surface of the globe in higher latitudes, and will move therefore over this surface in an easterly direction, while as the same time it moves toward the north in consequence of the original impulse it received. In this oblique motion all particles of the mass would 126 The Winds [August, remain parallel to each other, if they did not meet with any obstacle. But the space in which they enter being filled with air of an inferior velocity, the phenomenon becomes more complicated through this circumstance. The east side of the moving air being in contact with air of an inferior velocity, while the west side is constantly in contact with air of the same velocity, the parallelism of the directions will be destroyed and a rotatory motion produced in its place, in the direction of southeast and northwest. In other words, on the east side of the velocity due to the rotation of the earth will decrease rapidly, while that which results from the original impulse toward the north continues: on the west side it is quite the contrary. Hence the production of a vortex in the above direction. Without an obstacle, no such vortex being produced, it follows that the greater the obstacle, the stronger the tendency toward a rotatory motion will be. Now, as there is between the tropics a constant current of air from northeast towards south west, the rotation will be greater than without this circumstance. So the storm originating at the equator with a northern direction and a tendency toward the east, may be deflected towards the northwest by the action of the northeast wind, and continue in the same direction with its rotatory motion while it remains in the tropical zone. But beyond this limit some of the circumstances change. A wind blowing from the southwest toward the northeast, instead of the one which blew formerly in a contrary direction, changes suddenly the direction of the storm, while changing at the same time the causes which produced the vortex, the circular velocity of the latter must decrease at the same time as its radius increases. This is the substance of Mr. Dove's ideas on the law of those storms which have been observed in the West Indies, and over our Atlantic cities. We give it, because we thing that it may interest those who took an interest in either of the two opinions supported by Mr. Redfield and Mr. Espy. How the German philosopher thinks that a mass of air may be moved suddenly from the equator toward the north, we do not know;* and inasmuch as this remains in the dark, his explanation cannot be considered as a new proof in favor of his and Mr. Redfield's view, nor against Brandee's and Espy's. We would not have placed this part of the paper before our readers, had it not been that the numerous facts, which precede and follow it, had been originally published in this country. We said that the science of winds is as yet in its infancy, and *D'Alembert's reflections show how this may be conceived. 1841] The Winds. 127 repeat it after having stated how much had been done in our own country for its advancement. And so it will appear if we consider that the little we know refers to a peculiar kind of winds, to storms. In the same manner as historians handed us down narrations on wars and revolutions, which have at all times desolated human society, without almost ever noticing the intervals of peace and felicity, not less interesting than those of bloodshed and misery; so natural philosophers made us acquainted with the gales which open the depths of the sea, and bury the ships under the immense waves, or throw them on some rocky shore; which deracinate them fir-tree and mutilate the majestic oak, while they carry ruin and desolation through villages and cities. But the mild summer breeze which cools the forehead of the tired husbandman, carries the perfumes of the honey-locust to the invalid's chamber, and sounds like music in the leaves of the aspen-tree, this has not been honored with the same attention as its destructive brother. nor do we know much more about moderate breezes, with regard to different places and different times, though perhaps a great deal of materials might be gathered now from all parts of the world, and especially from those where there are liberty-poles. But among those there are two essential elements wanting, viz.; the instant at which the wind changes, and a comparative estimation of its strength. The utility of such observations may not seem evident to some of our readers, and it would perhaps to any one be difficult to show what results they may lead to hereafter; though our knowledge of the earth would fain immensely. but the utility there will be in them. No attention of man in his intercourse with nature remains unnoticed. In her school he acquires almost a creative power: he improves stocks and fruits; transforms tasteless vegetables into delicacies; gives new hues and sweets to the wild flowers, and fills his gardens with the most beautiful ones of his own creation, - not to mention the mechanical results to which the study of nature has enabled him to arrive. But to speak of something which is more nearly related with the question: When Torricelli discovered the barometer, and the cause of the suspension of the liquid in its tube, he thought that he only proved the absurdity of nature's "horror for the void:" his discovery was as purely theoretical as any ever made: and yet there is scarcely, in the eyes of modern navigators, a more useful instrument, and indispensable instrument, than this philosophical toy; and a few seamen who once understand its user would like to embark without it. Torricelli does not seem to have suspected a connexion between the variations of the barometer and the changes of the weather; and it was not without a great surprise that he discovered that the 128 The Return. [August, 1841] elevation of the mercury in his tube, changed constantly, - and before he died, the face of the barometer had already become a book of prophecy on which the approaching changes of weather were to be read. Now every seaman knows by this instrument that a gale is going to blow. when we know more about calm winds, may it not be expected that the barometer may predict them to? THE RETURN. A BARK has left Saint Helen's isle, A Prince is at the helm, She bears the Exile Emperor Back to his ancient realm. No joyous shout bursts from her crew As o'er the waves they dance, But silently, through foam and spray, Seek they the shores of France. A soldier comes! - Haste, comrades, haste! To greet him on the strand; 'Tis long since by his side ye fought For Glory's chosen land. A Leader comes! - let loud huzzas Burst from the extended line, And glancing arms, and helmets raised, In martial splendor shine. A Conqueror comes! - Fly Austrian, fly! Before his awful frown: - Kneel, Lombard, kneel! that pallid brow Has worn the Iron Crown! The eagles wave! the trumpet sounds! Amid the cannon's roar, Ye victors of a hundred fields, Surround your chief once more! And can that be the warlike strain That floated on Marego's plain? And to the breeze in triumph flung O'er Alpine cliff and glacier rung! No terror now is in that sound A haughty foe to quell; the bugle-note is wild and sad, It only breathes - "Farewell." A Monarch comes! - From royal arms Remove the envious rust, The Return 129 A Monarch comes, - the triple crown Is freed from gathering dust. Guard him not to the halls of state, His diadem is riven; But bear him where you hallowed spire Is pointing up to heave. And with the requiem's plaintive swell, With dirge and solemn prayer, Enter the marble halls of death, And throne your monarch there! A Husband comes! - Imperial bride, Unbar thy regal bower, Let music ring through every hall, Light stream from every tower. Haste! gentle wife, to greet those lips, - They have been long unprest; That weary head may slumber now On they devoted breast. She comes not thus! - Oh! Heaven, that she, E'en she, again should wed, Whose whole life should have been one thought, One memory of the dead! But stay - call her whom first he loved, The mistress of his fate, The child of Destiny, whose star, Ascendant, made him great. She sleeps - they may not meet again E'en in death's cold embrace, Oh! ne'er beside that hallowed dust His recreant ashes place! She lived, while Fortune smiled on him Without a changeful frown, She lived, while Heaven bestowed an heir To that imperial crown: - But when the stricken Idol bowed Beneath misfortune's stroke, She had a human heart, - it bled, A woman's heart, - it broke! No cannon peal booms o'er her grave, no drooping banner there shall wave, But her's shall be a purer farm Than that which gilds the Conqueror's name; And hers shall be a holier shrine Than thine, "Heir of the World," than thine! For Want's pale children, hand in hand, Moved with her princely funeral band, VOL, IX. No. XXXVIII.-I 130 The Return. [August And Gratitude its blessings shed To consecrate her peaceful bed,-- While filial love one peerless line 'Graved on the tomb of Josephine. A Father comes!--Haste, princely son, With banner, plume, and lance! Lead forth, to greet thy sire's return, The chivalry of France; And kneel upon thy country's sod, Amid that noble band, In loyal pride and filial love, To kiss that royal hand. Hush! Hush! a plaint, a voice of wail, Floats faintly on the dying gale; And through a distant castle's halls, Along its dim and ancient walls, A sigh steals on--it speaks of doom-- A noteless grave--an early tomb! A Son returns!--Fond mother, come! He waits thy dear caress, Once more upon that lofty brow Thy lips in fondness press. And think not of the Emperor, The Chief, the mighty man, But clasp again thy fairhaired boy, Thy youthful Corsican. Ah! age and grief have dimmed thine eye, But, placed upon that head, A mother's hand would recognize-- That mother too is dead! And what a destiny was hers! A fair and youthful bride, When dangers filled her husband's path She shared them by his side. A mother next, and infant eyes To hers looked fondly up; O was not that the dearest drop That blest her mingled cup? A widowed matron then we see, Amid that youthful band, And one by one they left her side, To shine in other land. A woman next, whom friendly Fates Had raised on rapid wings; The parent of a royal group, A family of Kings! 1841.] The Return. 131 And then in exile sad and lone, Lamenting over greatness flown, In sorrow's hour uncomforted, Like her who wept o'er Rama's dead; But death's cold frost came o'er her brow, Her griefs are past--she slumbers now. A Brother comes!--Fraternal ties May now be joined again, Since Fate restored the brightest link That glittered in the chain. Oh! brothers brave and sisters fair, With joyous welcome come, And meet as erst within the bowers Of your own island home. No: Time, and Death, and Distance, tell That call is raised in vain, The weary exiles may not meet In their childhood's home again. Napoleon comes!--Go speak that word At midnight's awful hour In Champ de Mars--will it not prove A spell of fearful power? Will not a shadowy host arise From field and mountain ridge, From Waterloo, from Austerlitz, From Lodi's fatal bridge, And wheel in airy echellon, From pass, and height, and plain, To form upon that ancient ground Their scattered ranks again? Go speak it in the Louvre's halls, 'Mid priceless works of art, Will not each lifelike figure from The glowing canvass start? Go to Versailles, where heroes frown And monarchs live in stone, Across those chiselled lips, will not A startling murmur run? No, no, the marble still may be Cold, cold and silent--So is he. The pencil's living hues may bloom, But his have faded in the tomb,-- And warriors, in their narrow homes Sleep, reckless that their leader comes. Napoleon comes!--but Rhine's full flood Rolls on without a tinge of blood; 132 The Return. [August, 1841.] The Pyramids still frown in gloom And grandeur, o'er an empty tomb, And sweetly still the moonbeam smiles Upon the fair Venetian isles. Napoleon comes! - but Moscow's spires Have ceased to glow with hostile fires. No spirit in a whisper deep Proclaims it where the Ceasars sleep, Or sighs from column, tower, or dome, A name that once was feared in Rome. - For life and power have passed away, And his is here - a king of clay. Now let the grazing nations stand In awe and reverence here, While France, the mighty mourner, bends Above her hero's bier. Ah! fear, and hate, and rivalry, To human sorrow turn, E'en haughty England drops a tear Upon Napoleon's urn. He will not wake at war's alarms, Its music, or its moans: He will not wake when Europe hears The crash of crumbling thrones, - And institutions gray with age Are numbered with forgotten things, And privilege, and "right divine" Rest with the people - not their kings. Now raise the imperial monument, Fame's tribute to the brave, The warrior's place of pilgrimage Shall be Napoleon's grave. France, envying long his island tomb Amid the lonely deep, Has gained at last the treasured dust, - Sleep, mighty mortal, sleep! Ay - dreamless as the unhonored head Trampled beneath earth's humblest sod, Rest till the Archangel's trump hath blown, The summons of thy Judge and God. ANNETTE. WOODSTOCK, VERMONT, December, 1840. 133 ANTHON'S CLASSICAL DICTIONARY.* THE extent and value of the work whose title is given below have been so generally eulogized by the press, and, as far as we can learn, so fully recognized by public admiration, that any farther praise of its execution, or recommendation of its usefulness, may now be considered altogether superfluous. This is one of the few books which spring into the world all armed to defy and to contend with criticism at their very birth. It knows no infancy and requires no nursing. A great and useful work was generally expected from its distinguished author, and a great and useful work has been produced. This is all the eulogy we consider it necessary to bestow upon it - and what more could we? And besides, though justice would extort this tribute where we even influenced by any reluctance to offer it, yet we frankly plead guilty to the charge which any reader may choose to make, of being at the date of these presents in a mood rather sternly critical - not to say even censorious. The truth is, if it must out, that we are somewhat in the frame of mind of that worthy old Athenian whose candid simplicity and honesty have not been fairly appreciated by history, who confessed himself sick and tired of hearing Aristides perpetually called "The Just," and therefore voted for his banishment to get rid for a while of this intolerable monotony of praise. It may be all true enough, and we have no desire of gainsaying it, but we are tired of hearing this single tune of indiscriminate eulogy and homage to Professor Anthon, as the very Colossus of Rhodes of classical erudition. If other people will fall down in his path, like the Persian in the dawning presence of his God, instead of averting our eyes in dazzled wonderment and reverence, we choose to look straight forward upon the full broad disk of the great luminary, with the aid of such optical appliances as we may command, and to enjoy to our heart's content the contemplation of every spot our jealous eye may discover upon it. Professor Anthon's progress through the ordeal of the criticism *A Classical Dictionary, containing an Account of the principal Proper Names mentioned in Ancient Authors, and intended to elucidate all the important points connected with the Geography, History, Biography, Mythology, and Fine Arts, of the Greeks and Romans, together with an Account of the Coins, Weights, and Measures, with Tabular Values of the Same. by Charles Anthon, L. L. D., Jay-Professor of the Greek and Latin Languages in Columbia College, New York, and Recter of the Grammar School. "Huc undique gaza." - Virg. - New York, Harper & Brothers, 1841, 134 Anthon's Classical Dictionary. [August, of the press, from "its Serene Highness" the New York Review, down to the humblest little newspaper "organ" of the humblest little village in the country, has been one uninterrupted triumphal procession, and loud and unceasing have been the Io Pœans which have greeted his progress along the Sacred Way--laden with the untold wealth of his spoils of modern libraries and ancient lore. If we must perform a part in the pageant, it shall rather be that of the attendant whose station was behind the chariot of its exulting her--to remind him that he was after all only a man, and to preserve his head from getting entirely turned by all the applauses and flatteries of the rest, by telling him every disagreeable truth he could lay his tongue to. We therefore carefully close that side of our double critical standish which is sweetened with the honey of approbation, with which the author of the work before us must long ere this have become completely cloyed; and open that alone in which we are wont to distil, according to the merits of the occasion, a stronger or weaker decoction of the gall of censure. To paraphrase Mark Antony, we come to criticise Mr. Anthon, not to praise him. The standard of profession by which our author expresses his own willingness to be measured, is at least no very humble one, and if many very eminent authors have deemed it best becoming them to appear before the public, in their title-page or preface, all suffused with the blushes of their own modesty, our very learned and able professor certainly exhibits but little disposition to follow any such example. We are told in the title-page that this single octavo volume is intended to "elucidate all the important points connected with the Geography, History, Biography, Mythology, and Fine Arts, of the Greeks and Romans;"--and again, in the preface, that the liberal and enterprising publishers by whom the work is issued, having, at great sacrifice of their apparent interest, determined to discard Lempriere altogether, or which they had the stereotype plates of an excellent edition, improved and enlarged at a former day by Professor Anthon's own hand, and wishing "a classical dictionary in as complete and useful a form as it could possibly be made," the present "new work was the result; not an improved edition of the old one, but a work on which the patient labor of two entire years has been faithfully expended." A profound observation has been more than once made, that "Rome was not built in a day," Now we certainly should feel scarcely less surprise at being told that this respectable old historical truth we had so long received for gospel was all a mistake, and that the building of Rome had been in fact nothing more than 1841.] Anthon's Classical Dictionary. 135 the easy pastime of a summer's afternoon, than we feel on being gravely told that a classical dictionary as perfect as it "could possibly be made," and intended to "elucidate all the important points," &c., &c., as before quoted from the title-page, was the work of a couple of years!--especially as it is well known to the public, that within those two years, beside discharging the duties of a laborious professorship, and the active superintendance of one of the principal and best of the classical schools in the city, Mr. Anthon has had some considerable portion of his time engrossed by various literary enterprises of a different character. A glance, moreover, along the page of the formidable "List of Work, exclusive of the classics, forming part of the author's private collection, and (?) which have been consulted for the purposes of the present edition," is certainly little calculated to diminish the astonishment excited by the former statement. We know Mr. Anthon's prodigious industry and efficiency,--we know that, with his frame of cast iron, his daily habits of perfect regularity and method, and his facility of execution, he can probably accomplish more in a given space of time that any other three men we could select in his own department of learning and labor,--we know that a steam-engine affords the only adequate comparison by which we can convey an idea of his modus operandi,--yet we still confess ourselves fairly puzzled by there "two years"! We shrewdly suspect that it must be a typographical error, and that the "patient labor" of at least the period of the Trojan War must have been "faithfully expended" upon the huge and closely printed tome before us;--respecting which, by the way, it is scarcely less a mystery how, notwithstanding its great and manifest superiority over and competing work in the market, it can be afforded by the publishers at the disproportionately low price of five dollars. However, passing over any points of this nature, we come to the body of the work itself, and as it is one the most undeniable value, and as the position it had already secured renders any critical forbearance, not only unnecessary, but positively unfair to those larger interests of scholarship, which are entirely independent of any single individual's success, we beg to present the fruits of a very cursory examination of its content with no other view than to assist the public mind in forming a judicious and discriminating estimate of its merits. We find our author repeatedly declaring, and his declarations echoed with accumulated emphasis through our journals and Reviews, that this Dictionary is to contain nothing in the slightest degree offensive to the youth of either sex--that no paragraph 136 Anthon's Classical Dictionary. [August, 1841.] therein contained shall bring the blush to the chastest cheek, or violate the most fastidious delicacy. What amount of "grossness" is legitimate within the above limitation it is difficult to define; nor do we see what particular propriety there can be in selecting the extra class of a fashionable boarding-school, or the précieuses ridicules of a "reading society for mutual improvement," to define to us the jurisdiction which our memories shall retain over the moral conduct of our ancestors. But without going behind this profession of the author, we protest against the very attempt to write a history of the ancient Mythology, or any adequate biography of Greece and Rome, upon such a principle. We protest against emasculating history for the purposes of favoring the prudery or tickling the moral self-complacency of any class or sect. A fact, wherever and whenever and however begotten, should be inviolable. The interests of the whole should never be sacrificed in protecting a few morally deformed from temptation. What should we have thought of Dr. Johnson, if, when an old lady of the school to which the author has thought fit to manifest so humble a deference, came to find fault with the number of wicked words he had inserted in his Dictionary, he had yielded to her demand for their exclusion, instead of making her the obviously proper answer, of asking how she came to find them out? It is impossible for the philosophical historian correctly to estimate an event except in the presence of all the facts which, either as causes or as consequences, are related to that event, and, cæteris paribus, just in proportion to the extent of his information will be the value of his opinion. The suppression of any truth in history as well as at common law is substantially the propagation of a falsehood. How far Mr. Anthon may have been successful in this attempt we do not care to inquire. That he has succeeded by it in marring the completeness of his work, a few references will demonstrate. The significance of Hercules in the ancient Mythology is variously interpreted, though most speculators agree that he represented some marked era of civilization. The most probable and interesting theory is that the first and original Hercules represented the spirit of Phœnician enterprise when first opening its piratical commerce with the remote quarters of the world. The labors and difficulties which they had to encounter, and the contests in which their different expeditions involved them, were idealized in the labors and trials of Hercules. Among his other deeds thus dignified by historians were his achievements during his fifty days' residence at the court of Thespius, which are now thought to represent an important feature of the age which he is thus supposed Anthon's Classical Dictionary. 137 to typify. They appear at least to constitute as important a feature of the Pagan Mythology as the Vesta worship at Rome. The whole fact of the visit, however, which is stated sufficiently in detail and with perfect propriety by Messrs. Da Ponte and Ogilby in their edition of Lempriere, is from Mr. Anthon's dictionary carefully excluded. Messalina, one of the most remarkable phenonema in the whole history of her sex, is done up in about twenty lines, although Tacitus, the sober patriarch of philosophical history, saw fit to give time and space to the most minute details of her life, and although it is utterly impossible adequately to interpret the social spirit of Rome during the reign of Claudius or the early history of the empire without them, to say nothing of its importance to any one who would satisfactorily appreciate the most profound, the most analytic, and we believe the longest of the satires of Juvenal. Our author gives six columns to a discussion of Seneca, who wrote poor essays on contentment with millions of money at his command, and common-place homilies against anger, while persecuting unto death one who ridiculed his licentiousness and meanness. The claims of Cleopatra upon the student of history, on the other hand, are summed up in about two columns, the larger portion of which is occupied with the political movement of her contemporaries in which she was somewhat involved. Surely the woman who, by our author's admission, was one of the most accomplished women that ever lived, beautiful and talented beyond compare, who was well skilled in the Greek and Latin, and conversed with ease in the Ethiopian, Jewish, Arabian, Syrian, Median, and Persian languages, surely the details of such a woman's life are too valuable to be proscribed for a liaison which out author is himself too just to blame. The Empress Theodora is proved by Gibbon to have been one of the most enterprising and capable women produced under the Empire. She raised herself from the lowest walks of the actress's profession to the throne, and there sustained herself with dignity. On one occasion she actually preserved the throne to her husband, solely through her presence of mind and strength of character. Mr. Anthon only tells us that "Theodora was an unprincipled woman, with some ability, who exercised till her death 548, a great influence over the mind of Justinian, and many acts of oppression and cruelty were committed by her orders." All this we are informed in the article on Justinian, no separate place being allowed for Theodora's portrait. The early life which the empress led, we suppose, is her condemnation. Her struggle from this, her victory over the prejudices of society and the Roman law, which for I2 138 Anthon's Classical Dictionary. [August, 1841.] bade actresses ever sitting upon the throne of the Roman empire, and her opportune fortitude in the Nika sedition, must all go for nothing. Is the moral of her story, when rightly told and appreciated, bad? The practical lesson of prudence taught by Athenodorus to his patron and former pupil, the Emperor Augustus, is likewise expurgated. The personal qualities of Heliogabalus are shuffled off with a few vague generalities about his debauchery and licentiousness. No facts are furnished whereby an estimate may be formed of the mortal and intellectual grade of his indulgences. Our author does not appear to have felt how indefinite are such accusations against a creature actuated like man, by a legion of impulses, or how vast is the difference between the licentiousness of Wilkes and that of George IV., nor how unlike is the debauchery of Sheridan to that of Titmouse. The ample materials furnished by Lampridius and Dio Cassius, leave the author no justification but his pernicious principle. Without dwelling longer upon particular instances to illustrate the exception which we have taken to the execution of the present work in this particular, we will merely refer the reader in addition to the articles on Aspasia, Socrates, Caligula, Tiberius, Venus, Augustinus, &c., all which will be found herein materially defective, although some of them are of the greatest value in other respects. But we rise above the consideration of individual instances. They might be supposed to involve merely a question of opinion between the author and his readers, to be controlled by their relative acquaintanceship with character and powers of discrimination. But we ask Mr. Anton whether his book does not assume to furnish the student all the accessible facts requisite for the formation of a correct opinion upon the whole political and social development of the pagan antiquity of Greece and Rome. And we put it to him as a scholar, does he think a work answer that end which on principle deliberately suppresses one whole class of the most important facts connected with the relations and intercourse of the two sexes? We put it to him as a Christian, ought he to blind his readers by the suppression of so large a class of material facts, to the purifying influences of that "New Doctrine," which, as the holy eloquence of Chateaubriand has demonstrated, for the first time in history, attacked legalized prostitution, and the exposure of children. We had supposed that Bayle's celebrated defence against the purists of France,* had completely smitten down all the pretensions of that school which claimed to rest upon argument, and had for ever eradicated their absurdities from the society of cultivated and liberal scholars. If, as it appears, we erred in this, *Eclaircissement sur les obscénités Anthon's Classical Dictionary. 139 we at least feel authorized in assuring Mr. Anthon, that whoever pretends to treat any fact as a nuisance to be adjudicated by the historian out of existence, or attempts to annihilate any past experiences of the human race, either assumes a very improper responsibility or convicts himself of a very great weakness. We proceed to notice some further omissions in this work, to which no principle has been pleaded in justification, and which, it is to be hoped, will be supplied in another edition. Tiberius Coruncanius is not noticed. This man opened the first school for teaching the law at Rome, a fact which doubtless had an important influence upon the study and practice of that science, since it has been made the burden of a dissertation by Mr. Schraeder, an eminent German jurist, in Hago's Magazine, Vol. 5. Besides, we believe that Coruncanius was the first Pontifex Maximus elected from the people. These are both events of the highest importance. Plotius, the founder of the first Latin school of rhetoric at Rome, is not mentioned. Greek teachers had completely engrossed that department of public instruction in that city, and when Cicero requested permission to attend this new school, he was refused the privilege, because his friends thought Greek instruction preferable for a candidate for the bar. This project of Plotius certainly marks an era in Roman literature worth commemorating. Cincius the tribune, who first proposed the law forbidding lawyers to take fees for their professional services, is passed unnoticed. And his celebrated Law is merely catalogued by our author, although it was a subject of frequent legislative modification and construction until the time of Justinian; and although it has been deemed worthy of elaborate discussion by some of the most eminent jurists of modern times. Antistius Labeo, the democratic lawyer and strict constructionist of the Augustan age, and founder of the Proculean sect of lawyers, is mentioned only to discuss his title to the Insanior Labeo of Horace, a question which was finally disposed of, when Gibbon endorsed the criticism of Bentley. It certainly should never have been permitted to exclude the interesting details of Tacitus, or the pertinent suggestions of his studious successors at the Roman bar. Ateius Capito, the distinguished and successful rival of Labeo in the affections of Augustus, who was founder of the Labinian sect of lawyers in opposition to the Proculian, is not mentioned at all. Publius Suillius, whose strong though venal eloquence, as Tacitus informs us, justly brought the blush to the cheek of Seneca, is also passed over. He deserves particular attention, as 140 Anthon's Classical Dictionary [August, 1841.] having been the spokesman of the lawyers when they successfully resisted the applications of Silius to the Emperor Claudius, to revive the Cincian law. The arguments of the parties are detailed at length by Tacitus. This Silius is also passed over, though a tribune, and otherwise distinguished, because as we presume he was the paramour of the notorious Messalina. Lamachus, one of the oligarchs of Athens, who forbade the comic poets to represent on the stage the events of the times, or to name in their pieces living characters, has met with a similar fate. Any one who has read Mr. Anthon's discussion of Justinian, must be struck with its inadequacy to the importance of the topic. Among other subjects totally omitted, but which were surely entitled to attention, which we have time here only to name, we notice— Syro, Virgil's teacher of epicurean philosophy, Dionysius Thrax, Phanias, Pegasus and Proculus, who gave names to different schools of lawyers, Cylon, Cæsonia, Polis, Thalœlius, Aliturus, Cornutus Turtullus, Pompeius Falco, Cornelius Mincianus, Terentius, jr., Chilius, Petronius, Sabinus, Ursulus, &c., &c., &c. It will be observed, that in the very limited examination which we have been able to make, of the sufficiency of this great work as measured by the standard of its pretensions, we have confined ourselves almost exclusively to the subject of Roman jurisprudence. But unfortunately we dare not infer that this department of the work has been less favored with the author's attention than others. We observed an inconsistency in the text, of a degree and character which we confess very much surprised us, even after making the largest allowance for the distracting influences which one encounters in attempting to digest a vast accumulation of debateable authority. This error would not probably have fallen under our observation, had we not been twice directed in the preface to the completeness and accuracy of the department of Grecian geography and history. In the article on Hellas, the Hellenes are represented as descended from Hellen, who had "three sons, Dorcus, Xeuthus, and AEolus. Archaeus and Ion are represented as the sons of Xeuthus, and from these four, Dorus, Æolus, Achæus, and Ion, the Dorians, Æolians, Achœians, and Ionians, were descended, who formed the four tribes into which the Hellenic nation was for many centuries divided." Hence it appears, according to Mr. Anthon, that the Ionians were of pure Hellenic origin. In the article on the Pelasgi the following passage occurs: "It is a curious fact which has been noticed by Mr. Malden (Hist. of Rome, p. 70), that the Grecian race which made the most early and the most rapid progress in civilization and intellectual attainments, was one Anthon's Classical Dictionary. 141 in which the Pelasgian blood was least adulterated by foreign mixture, namely, the Ionians of Attica and of the settlements in Asia." . . . . . . "Herodotus says that the Athenians were originally Pelasgi, but that after Ion and the sons of Xeuthus became the leader of the forces of the Athenians, the people received the name of Ionians." Here the Ionians are made out to be genuine Pelasgians. This is an incongruity of too grave a character to be winked at, and requires either correction or explanation. Again, in the article of Diagoras, after saying that a price was set upon his head for avowing a disbelief in Divine Providence and his contempt for the gods and religious ceremonies, Mr. Anthon says, that on account of these persecutions he fled to Corinth, where he died. Now when we bear in mind the nature of the crime for which the bold philosopher was thus outlawed, together with the preponderance of Athenian power and influence in Greece, it is probable that Corinth would have been about as secure a refuge for him, as Boston would be to a citizen of New York under a similar sentence. The better authorities are to the effect that Diagoras fled from Greece altogether, and instead of dying in Corinth was shipwrecked on his passage out. There is another more serious defect in this article than the above comparatively unimportant inaccuracy. No mention is made of the excellent constitution and laws which Diagoras furnished the Mantineans, and to which they were far more deeply indebted than to the revisory labors of Demonax, to whom Mr. Anthon has ascribed all the credit for their political greatness. There is another important omission for which this work is responsible, although its author may justify, with more or less success, under the example of all his predecessors in the same department of literary labor. On this account we approach its criticism with less confidence than under other circumstances we should think the subject deserved. We are unable to comprehend upon what principle of classification all notice of Christ and the canonical writers of his church is entirely omitted. Is it because they were of Jewish descent and not Grecian or Roman blood? Then why notice Maximin and Thracian, or the Arab Philip, or Maximus the Spaniard? Because these were Roman emperors, and the unity of Roman history appeared to require it? But Seneca and Martial were Spaniards, Phaedrus was a Thracian, and Terence an African. Why notice them? Because they were made citizens of Rome, and resided or wrote there? But Paul was also made a citizen of Rome (Acts xxii. 27,28), and Joseph, the putative father of Christ, was on a journey to Bethlehem, for the purpose of giving the strongest proof of his allegiance to Roman authority at the time of our 142 Anthon's Classical Dictionary. [August, 1841.] Savior's birth. Is it because the early history of the Christians would be unimportant to the student of Greek and Roman literature? But do not the repeated allusions to the Christian heresy in the official correspondence of Pliny, and in the histories of Ammianus, Suetonius, and Tacitus, entitle them to any portion of that respect which has been so bountifully lavished upon the animal worship of the Ægyptians, and the less classical ceremonies of the Druids? At least the alleged correspondence between Seneca and St. Paul will give that apostle as good a title to a place in the classical gallery, as the Christ Church boys made out for the apocryphal Phalaris. But aside from the obvious inconsistencies of this omission as a mere question of classification and arrangement, we must consider any classical dictionary seriously defective, which does not at least attempt to expose the nature and process of that tremendous social revolution which completely supplanted the most deeply-radicated and rational system of paganism the world had known, and laid the foundation for all the more important improvements in the political science of modern times. A classical dictionary should explain itself. Ever person or incident of importance within the period of time which the work assumes to comprehend, should have an explanation somewhere between the covers. What signifies the tolerant zeal of Gregory Nazianzene, or the distracting struggle between religion and filial affection in the breast of Chrysostom, or the vehement controversies of the hot-blooded Augustine and Pelagius, to the student yet ignorant of the story of those barefooted proto-martyrs and teachers who first taught the Christian faith with the eloquence of inspiration, and enforced those instructions with the strengthening influences of a divine example. The blemishes we have here had occasion to notice, in this important and valuable work, are doubtless chiefly to be ascribed to the rapidity with which it is stated to have been executed. Whether it is destined entirely to supersede the use of Lempriere, time and experience are alone to decide. The only rival edition of the latter now in the American market, is that by Messrs. Da Ponte and Ogilby, which has heretofore met with no inconsiderable degree of public acceptation. It was hardly graceful, by the way, on the part of our author, to omit all allusion to the very existence of this edition,—an omission which the New York Review has also neglected to supply. Not having it now before us, we shall not attempt any comparison of their respective merits; a task we greatly prefer, moreover, to leave to the discrimination of the public intelligence, which will soon know how to decide for itself which of the two to adopt and which to discard, without the aid of any gratuitous advice of Reviews or Reviewers. 1841.] 143 THE BOY AND HIS ANGEL. BY MRS. C. M. SAWYER. "OH, mother, I've been with an angel to-day! I was out, all along, in the forest at play, Chasing after the butterflies, watching the bees, And hearing the woodpecker tapping the trees; So I played, and I played, till, so weary I grew, I sat down to rest in the shade of a yew, While the birds sang so sweetly high up on its top, I held my breath, mother, for fear they would stop! Thus a long while I sat, looking up to the sky, And watching the clouds that went hurrying by, When I heard a voice calling just over my head, That sounded as if, 'come, oh brother!' it said; And there, right up over the top of the tree, Oh mother, an angel was beck'ning to me! "And 'brother!' once more, 'come, oh brother!' he cried, And flew on light pinions close down by my side! And, mother, oh, never was being so bright, As the one which then beamed on my wondering sight! His face was as fair as the delicate shell, His hair down his shoulders in long ringlets fell, While the eyes resting on me, so melting with love, Were as soft and as mild as the eyes of a dove! And somehow, dear mother, I felt not afraid, As his hand on my brow he caressingly laid, And whispered so softly and gently to me, 'Come, brother, the angels are waiting for thee!' "And then on my forehead he tenderly pressed Such kisses—oh, mother, the thrilled through my breast, As swiftly as lightning leaps down from on high, When the chariot of God rolls along the black sky! While his breath, floating round me, was soft as the breeze That played in my tresses, and rustled the trees; At last on my head a deep blessing he poured, Then plumed his bright pinions and upward he soared! And up, up he went, through the blue sky, so far, He seemed to float there like a glittering star, Yet still my eyes followed his radiant flight, Till, lost in the azure, he passed from my sight! Then, oh, how I feared, as I caught the last gleam Of his vanishing form, it was only a dream! When soft voices whispered once more from the tree, 'Come, brother, the angels are waiting for thee!'" 144 The Conspiracy of Catiline. [August, Oh, pale grew the mother, and heavy her heart, For she knew her fair boy from this world must depart! That his bright locks must fade in the dust of the tomb, Ere the autumn winds withered the summer's rich bloom! Oh, how his young footsteps she watched, day by day, As his delicate form wasted slowly away, Till the soft light of heaven seemed shed o'er his face, And he crept up to die in her loving embrace! "Oh clasp me, dear mother, close, close to your breast, On that gentle pillow again let me rest! Let me once more gaze up to that dear, loving eye, And then, oh, methinks, I can willingly die! Now kiss me, dear mother! oh, quickly! for see The bright, blessed angels are waiting for me!" Oh, wild was the anguish that swept through her breast, As the long, frantic kiss on his pale lips she pressed! And felt the vain search of his soft, pleading eye, As it strove to meet her's ere the fair boy could die. "I see you not, mother, for darkness and night Are hiding your dear, loving face from my sight,— But I hear your low sobbings—dear mother, good-bye! The angels are ready to bear me on high! I will wait for you there,—but oh, tarry not long, Lest grief at your absence should sadden my song!" He ceased, and his hands meekly clasped on his breast, While his sweet face sank down on its pillow of rest, Then, closing his eyes, now all rayless and dim, Went up with the angles that waited for him! C. M. S. THE CONSPIRACY OF CATILINE. BY A. DAVEZAC, ESQ. Had the history of the famous Conspiracy of Catiline, like that which Sallust had written of the civil and military transactions of Rome, embracing a brief, but most interesting period, been swept away by the tempest which during six centuries ravaged the civilized world, we should no doubt have deplored its loss with deeper sorrow, believing that with it had been destroyed the full elucidation of the mysterious obscurities that perplex the mind whenever we seek the true motives of the conspirators, and the real designs of Catiline himself. Why has this uncertainty been allowed to remain unexplained in a work professedly written to remove them, by one who, from his high station, his intimacy 1841.] The Conspiracy of Catiline. 145 with Cæsar, his marriage with Terentia, the repudiated wife of Cicero,* had assuredly the means of knowing even the most secret circumstances belonging to that strange plot? Removed as we are from the event, and hopeless, too, of obtaining new documents, out of which to educe additional light on that question, it may appear frivolous, to superficial minds, to invite attention from the occurrences of our own day, to fix it on scenes acted in Rome some seventy years before the Christian era. Were we led to this examination by the mere pleasure an inquisitive mind takes in the search of abstract truth, and the natural curiosity which delights in the speculative study of human nature, we could find an apology for pursuits of this kind, in the example of Sir William Blackstone, who, from analogous feelings, took so deep an interest in tracing the obscure commencement and secret growth of the quarrel between Addison and Pope, that "he withdrew from the severity of profounder studies to inquire into its causes, honoring literary history by the masterly force, the luminous arrangement of his investigation of that feud of two rival wits."† The reader, after perusing this examination, will acknowledge, we trust, that it was entered into from higher motives, and purposes far more practical. As Sallust is the best authority we can adduce in the matter in question, being a contemporary—nay, an eyewitness of the events he has recorded,—it is not irrelevant to indulge here in a brief digression to take a clearer view of the character of that historian, before we proceed to consider his narrative of the facts we propose to examine. Caïus Crispus Sallustius must have sprung from plebeian ancestors, since he was chosen a tribune of the people—a fact which we might indeed infer from the bitterness with which, on various occasions, he speaks of the nobility; sometimes substituting his own diction, sententious and yet polished and ornate, for the austere and more soldier-like language in which Marius, no doubt, *Speaking of his wife Terentia, Cicero complains, that she meddled more in the affairs of the Republic confided to him, than she allowed him to do with the domestic occupation committed to her care. The Consul, in divorcing this very busy woman, seems to have had a presentiment of her longevity, which left him hopeless of relief, save by the legal means he had recourse to. Pliny mentions that she lived to the age of a hundred and seventeen years. After the death of Sallust, she married again Messala Corvinus,—and after his death, a Roman senator, as her fourth husband, who used to boast that he possessed the two most remarkable relics in Rome, the widow of Cicero, and the chair in which Julius Cæsar had been assassinated. †D'Israeli. VOL. IX. No. XXXVIII.—K 146 The Conspiracy of Catiline [August, 1841] when addressing the people, rebuked the corrupt patricians who sought to obstruct his way to the consulate; sometimes, in the withering irony concealed in his seeming natural exposition of the motives he assigns to the aristocracy for their choice of Cicero as one of the consuls, when panic-struck by the rumors spread over Rome of the dread designs attributed to Catiline. That Sallust did not enter public life unprepared to fill the highest stations in the state, we have an imperishable evidence in the works that have come to us unmutilated by time. Had their author obeyed the promptings of his youthful inclinations, these would have led him, he informs us, to have devoted himself earlier, and exclusively, to literary pursuits. But the precepts of the Epicurean philosophy which, like most of the opulent young Romans of that epoch, he had embraced, gave him no arms with which to contend against the allurements of Rome, when in the season of the young passions, he came there to give to fortune a fair opportunity to bestow whatever of favor she intended for him. It was then that his adulterous love for Fausta, the beauteous but dissolute daughter of Sylla, became revealed to Milo, her husband, with a degree of undeniable evidence such that, after exposing him to the ignominy of a personal chastisement by the hands by the hands of the injured husband, it sufficed the latter afterward to obtain, against the adulterer, high and vindictive damages. There must have been, however, extenuating circumstances that mitigated the gravity of that offence against public morals, — perhaps the notorious levity of Fausta — perhaps the infamy of Milo! — since the nomination of Sallust as a tribune of the people is subsequent to that event. That popular magistracy enabled Sallust, soon after he had obtained it, to retaliate on Milo for all he had sustained of real or fancied wrongs at his his hands, by prosecuting him before the people for the murder of Clodius. We may trace to this occasion the birth of the hatred against Cicero, easily detected through the feigned impartiality of Sallust, whenever his subject leads him to speak of him. Cicero defended Milo, in spite of the clamors of the tribune, not unintimidated, however, by the sight of Pompey's soldiers, drawn up in martial array round the tribunal, under the pretence of preventing tumult, but with the real design to work on the feeble nerves of the great orator. Though it were unjust to give full faith to the infuriate declamations of Varro, yet when we reflect on the laxity of public morals in Rome at that epoch, it is enough to disgrace the character of Sullust to know that he was expelled by the Senate by the Censors, vile and corrupt as that assembly avowedly was, on the ground of notoriety of his dissolute and profligate life. The Conspiracy of Catiline. 147 When the rivalry between Pompey and Caesar broke out into open hostility, the nobility siding with the first, while the other drew the people after him, Sallust, as it was natural that one discontented and aggrieved should do, enlisted himself under the eagles of the future Dictator. Caesar, who appreciated the genius of Sallust, and his talents for public affairs, having made him a praetor, and thus restored him to his rank and dignities in the Senate, employed him on important occasions, both in the city and in the provinces, during the civil war. After the battle of Munda had rendered him the undisputed master of the civilized world, the Dictator, to reward his zeal and services, sent him to govern Numidia. If by this nomination it had been Caesar's design to punish the Numidians for the attachment they had shown to Pompey and Scipio, he could not have chosen a more fit instrument of his vengeance. In Africa, the austere and eloquent declaimer against corruption and venal magistrates rioted in plunder, hoarding in a few years treasures which Varro has not attempted to compute, but the amount of which we may conjecture, knowing, as we do, that with the wealth of Numidia Sallust built in Rome a palace, the future abode of the Caesars, and adorned with gardens of unsurpassed beauty the grounds which, to this day, bear his name.* The government of Rome had been totally changed by Sylla. Under the pretence of restoring it to its primitive oligarchical form, he abolished the tribunitian power, a magistracy the people had been long accustomed to, and which, by giving to the working classes a share in the sovereignty, had made them more attached to the republic. That popular magistracy, it is true, had been restored, under the consulship of Pompey and Crassus; but degraded by the contempt in which the Dictator had taught the patricians to hold it, and shorn of the lustre that adorned it, when every Roman was obliged to swear to observe inviolate the law that made the person of a tribune sacred. Hence the rapid decline of the popular ascendency, together with that of the tribunitian authority, as soon as Pompey had left Rome to war against the Pirates and Mithridates. All power fell again in the hands of the few, — *A noble Roman family still boasts the name of, and claims to descend from, Sallust! When the late Emperor of Austria visited Rome, the head of that illustrious house being presented to him, the following dialogue took place between the modern Caesar and the modern Sallust: "On dit que vous déscendez de Salluste, — est-ce vrai?" — "On le dit depuis bientôt dixneuf siecles, Sire, et il faut bien commencer à le croire!" ["They say you are descended from Sallust, — is it true?" — "They have been saying so for nearly nineteen centuries, Sire, and it is time to begin to believe it!"] 148 The Conspiracy of Catiline. [August, 1841.] the nobility again engrossing, as they did while Sylla governed, all the high judicial, sacerdotal, and political offices,—irresponsible themselves, and yet enervating the magistrates of the people by the dread of vexatious prosecutions, which they often instituted against them on frivolous pretences, and always maintained with all the influence attached to wealth and illustrious ancestry. So general was the popular discontent, at the period of which we speak, that all rumors of intended change in a state of things which all felt as oppressive, filled the public mind with hopes of a happier future. Circumstances so favorable to the success of any ambitious leader did not escape the sagacity of one who, ever since the death of Sylla, had eagerly watched the opportunity for placing himself at the head of the veteran soldiers, to whom the Dictator had distributed, previous to disbanding them, the estates of one hundred thousand proscribed Romans. Lucius Sergius Catiline, the man we allude to, claimed to descend from Sergestus, one of the followers of Æneas. His youth had been nurtured amid the violence and excesses incident to civil wars; and so precocious had been the growth of his criminal instincts, that, though he had scarcely reached the age of manhood when Sylla assumed the dictatorship, he was selected by him as one of the executors of his bloody inflictions. Not satisfied with these vicarious atrocities, he used the authority specially delegated to him, for purpose of his own; sometimes, to satiate his thirst of vengeance in the blood of his personal enemies; sometimes, to gratify his covetousness of wealth, which ever kept pace with the prodigality that grew out of his vices. To his resentment of imaginary wrongs, he sacrificed Marius Gratidianus (a relative of the consul), with circumstances of aggravated ferocity that excited general horror even at that period, when deeds of blood were so frequent that the public mind had palsied at their contemplation. To his avarice, he immolated his own brother, that he might inherit his estate; and, in order to give an appearance of legality to his fratricide, he succeeded in having the name of that dead brother inscribed on Sylla's list of proscriptions, as if he were still alive. Nay, attempting to pollute the gods themselves by the contact of his defiled hands, he washed the blood of Gratidianus that stained them, in the water of the lustral fountain that flowed fast by the temple of Apollo! Impious in his very love, as in some soils the sweetest herbs grow to be deadly poisons, he sought among the Vestal Virgins the object of a lawless passion; and at last—we shudder as we copy the very words of Sallust!—"having become enamored of Aurelia Orestilla, one who had nothing but beauty to recommend her, and because she objected to marry him, on account The Conspiracy of Catiline. 149 of his having a son nearly grown up, it is believed as a certain fact, that he destroyed the youth, making his house desolate to open the way for this infamous alliance!" It was this crime, this crowning iniquity, adding the murder of a son to that of a brother, Sallust conjectures, which drove him into the conspiracy of which we treat; "for his guilty soul," exclaims the historian, "at enmity with gods and men, could find no rest; so violently was his mind torn and distracted by a consciousness of guilt." He had sought the oblivion of these dread acts, in the occupations of high civil and military positions, which both the favor of the Dictator and his illustrious birth made easily attainable to his ambition; but the Furies, to speak the language of that age, followed him alike in camp and council,—ever and anon presenting him the dim visions of the past,—still urging him on to deeds of kindred atrocity, so as to make him more completely their own. Brave, daring, skilful, as he was, yet glory seemed to fly before him, always enticing him to follow it on to the field of battle, and then, like a mocking shadow, ever eluding his grasp. Eloquent, learned—nay, having all the talents, the high capacities, both natural and acquired, that constitute human wisdom—save virtue, which is wisdom itself—in council, in senate, he obtained no honor, no renown, for the qualities he really possessed; and so tainted his reputation that, though defamed already by the most detested of crimes, the world still persisted in believing him guilty of unrevealed enormities, acts which even the license of the Latin language dares not name! Yet such the corruption of the times, so sudden too had been the rushing of the Roman youth, from the austerity of ancient manners into the depravity brought to Rome by Sylla, together with the arts of Greece, the effeminacies and dissoluteness of the East, that Catiline, such as we have described him, subduing rather than heightening the tints of his portrait as drawn by one certainly not austere in his judgments, found in Rome more partisans attracted and won over to him by his vices, than antagonists determined to oppose the execution of his designs, even if these were favorable to the popular cause. Here we must pause, and examine the moral aspect of Rome, at the period when the conspiracy of which we treat threw the Republic into general agitation—we use that word rather than consternation, because both Sallust and Plutarch agree in stating, that the attitude of the people, when the disclosures made to the consuls by Fulvia, became public, was one, rather indicating a suspicious neutrality, than a disposition to aid the Senate in the measures they might adopt to defeat the plans of the conspirators. The Roman proletaries doubted the reality of the peril, 150 The Conspiracy of Catiline [August, 1841] though the Senate declared that Catiline threatened the very existence of the Republic. They dreaded too the consequences of a victory obtained by the nobility over any real or supposed conspirators; and they entertained some vague hope, that, whatever plot existed, its success might restore them their tribunes, the only protectors of their rights and privileges. Among the lessons which are learned in colleges, none are more contradicted by every page of their history, than those which assert that the Romans were free and possessed the advantages of republican institutions. The kingly government was overthrown by the nobility, but the constitution which it substituted for the monarchy, subjected the great body of the people (they could scarcely be yet termed a nation) to the tyranny of a heartless oligarchy. Even religion, the natural solace of the oppressed and the unfortunate, the patricians having possessed themselves of all sacerdotal functions, became in Rome a mere political instrument through which they perpetuated their ascendency. The assemblies of the people, whenever these were convened, either to question, or to resist their authority, the consuls arbitrarily dissolved, under the hypocritical pretence that the auguries (mysteries which they alone pretended to comprehend and assumed to explain) had not been favorable to the holding of them. Besides, every patrician family had an unlimited sway over numerous dependants or "clients," bound to them by a sort of clannish feeling, partaking both of religious superstition and early-inspired awe of high station and illustrious ancestry, whose suffrages at elections their patrons could always command. Even after the institution of the tribuneship, the nobility often succeeded in rendering these popular magistrates inefficient, either by bribing one tribune to oppose the acts of his colleagues, or by superseding, through the supreme authority of a dictator, the powers vested in all inferior magistrates. In the infancy of the Republic, the despotism of the oligarchy was less oppressive to the proletaries, or working classes of Rome, than it became after conquest had extended the limits of the state, and introduced inequality of fortunes. An appearance, at least, of general freedom, and some real equality, may be said to have prevailed among the citizens, when depraved as yet by luxury, and the arts it both creates and fosters, patricians, plebeians, and proletaries, alike boasted of their poverty as an evidence of their virtue. Then it was, that iron, which makes the earth fruitful and defends its possessors, at the same time from the domestic tyranny of the few, and from the foreign invasion of the many, was held by a warlike people as more The Conspiracy of Catiline. 151 precious than gold, and therefore was used in preference to the metals called precious, as their monetary sign. If in pursuing the history of Sallust, we are justified in lamenting the obscurity which his too succinct account of the conspiracy of Catiline has left unelucidated, yet it were unjust to complain of the view he has taken of society in Rome. The pages he has allotted to that portion of his subject, luminous and full, are among the most valued records of antiquity. To the philosopher, they appear as the most interesting picture of that age, satisfying as much the rational curiosity that seeks the hidden causes of action, the details of private and public life, as they do that which eagerly inquires what opinions one, at the same time subtle and judicious, had formed of events, at the very moment they were being acted, and of the individual actors of the scenes, when they stood before him with all contemporary motives for love or hatred present and actively operation on the passions of the day. Never has a writer painted man, who, with less pity for human infirmity, more fully exposed its most odious propensities. Without indulgence for vices, because he is never the dupe of extenuating circumstances pleaded in palliation of them, he is equally without enthusiasm for virtues of the sterner east, for deeds of the nobler inspiration, seeking to denude these of their pure motives, sedulous too, to strip the others of their mask of hypocrisy. It requires no sagacity to discover, through the réticences of Sallust and the garrulity of Plutarch (often more perplexing than the affected brevity of the Roman), that the proletaries, as a class, took no part in the conspiracy. Even the eagle, planted in the camp of Manlius — the same, it was stated, which Marius had borne victorious through the ranks of the slaughtered Cimbrians— failed to allure the veterans of Marius under the standards of the former lieutenant of Sylla. The relicts of the Marian party in Rome watched with intense curiosity the result of the expected battle between Catiline and the Consul, who pursued him, intending to take advantage of any check sustained by the last, to attack the patrician forces that still guarded the city, but determined never to acknowledge Catiline as their chief. It is thus that we explain the following remarks of Sallust, for it is thus that we understand them: "Nor were the conspirators and their accomplices the only disaffected persons; the whole body of the populace, from their desire of a revolution, approved Catiline's designs." And again: "All they who were of any party different from that of the Senate, wished rather to see the state embroiled, than themselves without power. As soon as there was any hope of a change in the state, the old 152 The Conspiracy of Catiline. [August, 1841] contest (that between the people and the oligarchy) fired the minds of the populace. And if Catiline had conquered in the first engagement, or come off on but equal terms, great distress and calamity must certainly have overwhelmed the state, nor would the conquerors have long enjoyed their victory." The conspiracy was in fact only a struggle of two rival patrician factions for power and office. We adduce, as evidence of our assertion, the following passage of the speech made by Catiline to his confederates, assembled at the house of M. Lecca: "Since the government came under the power and management of a few, all say, preferment, or riches, are now in their hands, or those of their favorites; to us—"he spoke to senators, knights, and provincial nobles"—they have left nothing but dangers, repulses from public dignities, the terror of tribunals, and the buffetings of poverty." Here we have, openly avowed, the grievances complained of— the monopoly of office and dignities by one set of nobles, to the exclusion of other nobles, and the determination of these last to obtain power by changing violently the government, since they found it impossible to overthrow their adversaries with the usual forms, by means of popular assemblies. On the same occasion, when he disclosed the motives which led him to conspire against the Senate, Catiline, questioned as to the forces are which he could rely for the execution of his designs, unhesitatingly replied, that "Piso and Nucerinus were both privy to his designs; the former in Spain, the other at the head of an army in Mauritania; that C. Antonius was a candidate for the consulship, that he hoped to have him for his colleagues, as he was his intimate friend."—It is remarkable that Catiline, neither in this nor any other speeches or letters, alludes anywhere, either to the people, or to the old Marian party. He would not have failed to do so, when thus urged, in such a moment, to enumerate all his means of success. It was in the interest of the cause, no less than in his character, to exaggerate, rather than to diminish, the number of his auxiliaries. If he did not boast of popular sympathies, it is because he knew that those he addressed were aware that he had failed to enlist them in his behalf. As to the Marian party, it had no military adherents, for this reason, that Marius after his victories had always disbanded his triumphant armies. At the end of each of his glorious campaigns, his soldiers had returned to the pursuits of civil life, and again became citizens. Not so, as regards the armies that had served under Sylla; these, forming forty-three legions, or three hundred and fifty thousand men at the lowest computation, the Dictator had established as military colonists, in various parts of Italy,—and many very near Rome, on lands forcibly taken from The Conspiracy of Catiline. 153 their owners, and given to these veterans as the reward of their long services. Most of these soldiers had sold their lands, spent the proceeds, and, panting for another civil war, held themselves ready to follow the fortune of any ambitious leader. On these auxiliaries Catiline depended to form new legions of disciplined warriors. On the dissolute youth of patrician families he counted also.* But, we repeat it, there is not a line in Sallust, in Cicero, in Plutarch, to warrant the assertion made by ancient and modern compilers, that the Marin party had taken a part in the conspiracy headed by Catiline. Besides, that party had already a chief;—Cæsar, by placing in the capitol the statue of Marius triumphant over the Cimbri, and crowned by victory, had announced to the Roman proletaries, an avenger of the murdered Gracchi. In him they thought both Tiberius and Caius had revived—with the patriotism that animated, the eloquence that equally graced the sons of Cornelia, but with a promptness of decision, a vigor in action which the brother-tribunes had wanted. In him, too, they hailed another Marius, one in whom shone lustrous, the valor, the military talents of the peasant-born hero, with a wisdom in council, an eloquence in the Senate and forum, which the illustrious consul never possessed. Sallust names fifteen senators, a greater number of the equestrian order, among the conspirators who, on the first of June, met at the house of Catiline. "To these were joined," we copy the words of Sallust, "many from the colonies and municipal towns, all men of rank in their several countries. There were likewise several noblemen engaged in the conspiracy, though not openly; men excited not by want, nor any pressing considerations, but by the hope of lawless power. Beside these, almost all the youth, especially the youth of quality, favored Catiline's undertaking: even those who had it in their powers to live at their ease, nay, splendidly and luxuriously, preferring uncertainties to certainties, and discord to peace. Some there were at that time too, who believed that M. L. Crassus was privy to the design!" This last assertion, though dubitatively advanced, is one of the perplexities that we meet, as we advance in our examination. How can we reconcile this suspicion of the complicity of Crassus, a man of proverbial *As another proof that this conspiracy was but the beginning of a civil war between patricians of rival factions, we refer to what is stated by Sallust of the fate of A. Fulvius a young Patrician, the son of Aulus the Senator, who, though not concerned in the conspiracy, left the city to join Catiline. "He was taken upon the road, brought back to Rome, and put to death by his father's orders!" We wonder that this trait of patrician virtue has not been the theme of college declamations, like that recorded of the elder Brutus! But a copy has never the value of the original. K 2 154 The Conspiracy of Catiline. [August, 1841.] wealth, with the declaration made in the Senate by Cicero, that the conspiracy had for its object the burning of the city, the plunder of its wealth, and the promiscuous slaughter of the senators? Is it likely that Crassus, the owner of several of those private houses in Rome, that Sallust describes as "resembling in magnificence so many cities," had consented to abandon them to the torch of the incendiary? That the possessor of untold treasures had agreed to yield these up to needy plunderers? That the husband of a virtuous matron, sprung of noble lineage, the father, too, of chaste and beauteous virgins, had contracted, nay, sworn to deliver them a prey to the lust of an unbridled soldiery,—to the passions of libertine youths, who had disgraced their manhood in scenes which the pudicity of modern language repels from these pages? The secret of all these mysteries is perhaps contained in a short sentence by which Sallust concludes the description of the hideous and savage orgies said to have followed the speech made by Catiline: "But some believe that these, and much more, were invented by those who thought to allay the odium which fell upon Cicero, for putting the conspirators to death, by aggravating their crimes." We will return to this subject, when we examine the part acted, on that memorable occasion by Cicero, Cato, and Cæsar. In the most flourishing epochs of Roman history, it is not rare to find the names of women enrolled together with those of the most renowned citizens on occasions when great events changed totally or modified materially the constitution of the state; but these generally appeared either as the cause of salutary reforms, by their influence over their husbands or brothers, as when through the wounded pride of a woman plebeians were made eligible to the consulate, or when the brutal attempt of Appius Clodius to reduce a free virgin to slavery led her heroic father to destroy the iniquitous power of the Decemviri.* In the period, however, or which Sallust treats, a change no less prompt and surprising had been brought about in the nurturing and habits of Roman women, than * The executive and judicial powers were never so fully united in the same persons, as when they were delegated to the ten judges charges to prepare a body of law for the Roman people. Then was seen what dangers may arise from an ambitious judiciary. After Nero, Caligula, Domitian—nay, after Commodus—the Roman people allowed powers to continue in the hands of one Emperor; but, such the dread remembrance of the tyranny of their Decemviri, that executive authority was never again, by them, instructed to men "learned in the law!" We can understand why Thomas Jefferson became so fearful of judicial usurpation! The alliance of judges and money corporations is more to be feared than all the military chieftains that Mr. Clay ever denounced to the nation! The Conspiracy of Catiline. 155 had taken place, in the education, pursuits, opinions, and moral character of the men. Among the masterly delineations given by Sallust of the dissolute oligarchy, which after the death of Sylla (for as long as that wonderful man lived, no one in Rome dared to aim at power) had possessed themselves of the government of the Republic, there are none so interesting, to such as are aware of the influence that women ever exercise in all societies which have ceased to be rude and barbarous, as the portraits he has drawn of Fulvia and Sempronia, both of them women of patrician birth. Like Homer, who sometimes, rather than present to view the tumultuous spectacle of contending hosts, selects two warriors meeting in single combat, and limits the action within narrower bounds, embodying War itself in two rival champions,—so Sallust in these two high-born females has personified two classes of women in Rome, alike stained with the vices of a leprous age, and yet differing by the degree in which each of them had imbibed the contagion, as much as in the natural propensities which evil examples had, in both, changed or corrupted. The one, having as yet sacrificed at the shrine of the guiltiness of the times, chastity only, still preserving, revered and sacred, the love of country, the guardian deity of her heart! The other, possessed of a masculine understanding, and adventurous and daring spirit that had often led her to engage in dangerous enterprises, rushed madly toward a perilous future, heedless of the present felicity she might have found in the love of numerous and lovely children, in the tenderness of a too confiding husband. Yet she had spurned, as beneath her talents, the wonted occupations of her sex, letters, which she had studies in the master productions of Grecian genius and in such as Rome possessed, even previous to the brighter glories of the Augustan age, might have charmed those hours that often weigh heavily on the leisure of unenlightened opulence; while her proficiency, both in music, and the more frivolous art of dancing, in which she excelled, as Sallust, that rigid censor of morals! thought, "more than became a virtuous woman," would have offered relaxation to austerer studies. Female modesty and the chastity it inspires and protects, she derided as the prejudices of grovelling minds. She was as prodigal of her favors as of the gold she bartered them for, not only to such as she did not love but to such as she even personally abhorred. By a strange fatality, indigence and opulence, alike, and alternately, urged her to guilt; the first stimulating her natural covetousness, the other inviting her to search for more costly pleasures. By perjury she unscrupulously cancelled debts contracted for dress and splendor. It has struck 156 The Conspiracy of Catiline [August, 1841.] Sallust as a peculiar trait in the character of Sempronia, that, notwithstanding her continued association with brutal and profligate wretches, and in spite, too, of her constant brooding over thoughts dire and gloomy, neither her mind nor her countenance had been darkened by the outward expression of the hideous scenes within. Her features were ever lighted by a mirthfulness that seemed to flow from a pure and innocent heart; while her genius, as if careless of the future, bright and ever buoyant, delighted all that knew her. Witty, eloquent, and even learned — gifted, too, with a poetic inspiration, both ready and elegant — she cold, as best served her purpose, give to her manners the winning diffidence of natural bashfulness, to her voice the tremulous accents of tenderness, or heighten the charm of her conversation by the most pungent vein of sarcastic humor. To one such as we have painted Sempronia, the love of Rome—of Rome, the worshipped city!—seemed a vulgar superstition. To her the scenes of rapine and slaughter mediated by Catiline, —the mere recital of which, by Curius, her lover, had made Fulvia, depraved as she was, fly horror-stricken to the consul to relieve her mind, by a full confession to him, from the burden of the terrible secret intrusted to her keeping—would have appeared in their dread execution, but a diversion of the circus; Rome the arena,—armies the gladiators,—and the Roman people themselves the astonished spectators! The Senators were aware that the people, looking upon the conspiracy as the effort of one portion of the oligarchy to wrest power out of the hands of those of the same order that possessed it, would remain indifferent to the result; or, perhaps, incline to the party who held out promises of a change favorable to the popular cause, rather than to that which, like the British Conservatives of the present time, insolently avowed the determination to preserve all existing abuses. They therefore determined to raise Cicero, a man of obscure birth, recommended only by his eloquence, to the consulship, and to give him as a colleague Antoninus, also of a plebeian family, in the hope that the recent elevation of these two Senators would make them more agreeable to the proletarians than patricians descended from ancestors hated for their aristocratic pride and constant opposition to the popular principles. The character of Cicero, vain and credulous, made him on that occasion the instrument of the oligarchy, as readily as he became, at a later period, that of the astute policy of Octavius. Flattered by the confidence the nobility feigned to repose in him, he lent himself blindly to their vindictive rage against Lentulus and Cethegus, men of their own order, whom they were resolved The Conspiracy of Catiline 157 signally to punish, in order to deter future defections from their ranks; trampled on the existing laws of the Republic, by inflicting the punishment of death on Roman citizens condemned only by a decree of the Senate, wanting the sanction of an assembly of the people: not foreseeing the ingratitude of the aristocracy, which gave him up as a victim to Clodius, when that tribune, not long after, prosecuted him for the violated of the Porcian law, whose mild enactments, anticipating the greater enlightenment of a more humane legislation, allowed every Roman citizen to prevent a capital condemnation by voluntary exile. Fulvia, one of the women made infamously immortal by Sallust, had long been kept by Curius, a patrician the Censors had expelled the Senate. While she believe him rich, she had feigned to love him,—when she knew him to be poor, she really hated and despised him. Her contumelies he bore patiently for a while; but, as if maddened by his uncontrollable passion, suddenly changing his deportment with her, sometimes he threatened to kill the ungrateful courtesan, and again submissive and imploring, he boasted of his power, at no distant day, to repay her kindness with the possession of unbounded wealth. Suspecting some mystery of deep iniquity, Fulvia, by blandishments and a simulated returning love, easily drew from one "accustomed to disclose whatever he heard. and even unable to conceal his own crimes,"* all that he knew of Catiline's designs; adding, no doubt, all that he thought likely to work on the hopes or the fears of her whose affections he wish to regain. Curius, at the solicitation of Fulvia, undertook to become the alaried spy of his confederates in guilt. From him the Consul continued to learn all that was proposed or determined among the conspirators. These were the two informers on whose evidence Cicero denounced to the Senate patricians of consular and senatorial ranks. It was impossible for one so versed as Cicero was in judicial proceedings, not to be aware that the evidence of two witnesses, both of them infamous, and only one of them testifying directly to the facts charged on the accused, would be indignantly rejected in an assembly of the people, as the absurd invention of unprincipled informers. hence his determination to bring the cause before the Senate, while that assembly, under the influence of the terror inspired them b the rumors the Consul had spread over the whole city, was disposed to dispense, on the trial of the conspirators, with all prescribed rules. But, even when intending to violate the laws, it is in the __________________________________________________________________ *Sallust 158 The Conspiracy of Catiline. [August, 1841.] nature of such as have made them the study of their lives, ever to conceal arbitrary acts under a simulation of legality. Besides this professional leaning toward some appearance of judicial forms, the timidity of the Consul made him unwilling to confront the conspirators, men of action, intrepid, and used to encounter all sorts of dangers, before a tumultuous popular assembly where they would appear with their advocates, their friends, and clients, and where they would be supported by the sympathies of the people, ever felt for whoever the Senate accused. Even had Cicero possessed the martial vigor of Scipio Nasica, or the energetic spirit of Opimus. still he would not have dared to proceed against Catiline, Lentulus, and the other leaders of the conspiracy, with the lawless violence displayed by these proud oligarchs in what they termed "the seditions of the Gracchi." The conspirators were men of ancient lineage, of pure race, not contaminated like these tribunes with plebeian blood. Such men, Cicero knew could not be despatched, particularly without the pretence of their exciting popular tumults, by the swords of Roman knights or the clubs of hired ruffians, the ready instruments of patrician vengeance against proletarian offenders. He determined therefore to convene the Senate, in order, he asserted, to lay the matter before them, but in reality to obtain from that assembly the decree he easily wrested from their fears, "ordering the consuls to take care that the state suffered no detriment." Invested with the dread and undefined powers, possessed of the unlimited jurisdiction too, which such a decree gave him, Cicero, still preserving judicial forms, having ordered Lentulus and Cethegus to appear before him, took Lentulus, who was still a prætor, by the hand, and conducted him to the senate, giving the other conspirators in charge of his lictors. The testimony produced in the Senate was vague, uncertain, and contradictory, and came from witnesses who only consented to speak after they had been promised a full pardon, under the guarantee of the public faith, pledged to them by the consuls; and yet upon such evidence the Senate decreed "that Lentulus should lay down his office, and, together with the others, be kept in custody." Though this is an examination, not a history of the conspiracy, we must state what took place the next day in the Senate, when Tarquinius was brought before them as a new witness, to eke out the very deficient evidence adduced before. He, too, refused to speak, without a pardon granted under pledge of the public faith. "Tarquinius," says Sallust, "confirmed the statement made by Volturcius," (one of the former witnesses); "adding that he was The Conspiracy of Catiline. 159 sent by Crassus to tell Catiline, not to be discouraged by the apprehension of Lentulus and Cethegus—to make haste to the city." This was a dramatic incident (to use the modern French phrase in their reports of state trials). Volturcius had not proved enough—but Tarquinius proved too much. We proceed in the words of Sallust: "When Tarquinius named Crassus, a man of high quality, great riches, and vast credit in the state, they all cried out that he was a false witness, and desired that it might be debated." The account given by Sallust of that singular debate, brief as it is, yet teems with information. It paints the aristocracy with colors which not but such as have been themselves under the influence of the feelings of that caste can find on their palette. It infuses into that part of the narration, though it does not relate to the historian himself, the peculiar interest of autobiography. We give it entire, its sententious terseness defying abridgment: "Some thought it quite incredible; others, though they believed the charge to be true, yet thought that a man of so great influence ought, at such a juncture, rather to be courted than exasperated: besides, most of the senators were under private obligations to Crassus! Accordingly, it was agreed in a full Senate, that Tarquinius's evidence appeared to be false; that he should be ordered to prison*, and confined till he discovered by whose advice he had framed so impudent a falsehood." Without affirming this fact, Sallust gives it plainly to be understood, that in his opinion Cicero induced Tarquinius to make this accusation against Crassus; and, lest there should remain some doubt on that point, he adds: "I heard Crassus, indeed, affirm himself, that this contumely was fixed upon him by Cicero." We believe, on the contrary, that Cicero was much chagrined as he was surprised by this declaration of Tarquinius. The implication of Crassus in such a plot as he had represented that of Catiline to the Senate, threw an air of absurdity on all the circumstances of the intended burning, plundering, and murdering, which the Consul had introduced in his account of the plot to the Senate, both to intimidate the Senators, and to palliate the blame he knew would otherwise attach to the illegality of the measures he had advised. The testimony of Tarquinius having weakened instead of giving strength to the evidence laid by the Consul before the Sen- * This seems very like a violation of the public faith, pledged to Tarquinius by the Consul—but why accuse Crassus, a man of "high quality, great riches, and vast credit in the state?"—one to whom, too, "most of the Senators were under private obligations." Why should Consuls or Senators keep faith with such a man! 160 The Conspiracy of Catiline [August, 1841.] made it still more urgent, in the opinion of Cicero, to hurry on the trial of the accused, without observing the legal forms of proceedings prescribed in criminal prosecutions. The Consul therefore having assembled, in the temple of Jupiter Stator, the Senators, by whom the conspirators had already been summarily declared public enemies, "desired to know what they would please to determine concerning those who were now in custody?"* Silanus, who, in his quality of consul-elect, was first asked his opinion by Cicero, voted for the infliction of capital punishment. The speech delivered by Cæsar on that occasion, one which, from his intimacy with the historian, the Dictator must have either written himself or revised at least, sustains fully the reputation he had already obtained for eloquence and wisdom; while it breathes that forgiving and humane spirit, by which he has some measure atoned, even in the opinion of democracy, for his abandonment of the principles of which the people had marked him as the champion. In comparing the antagonist arguments of Cato and Cæsar, we are struck with the declamatory tone of the first, contrasted with the close, logical, statesmanlike mode of debating of the other. It is true that the law of the case, to speak as a jurist, was undeniably with Cæsar, which fact gave him a great advantage over his opponent. Hence the obligation on the part of Cato, of arguing from necessity. In that debate, as in the whole course of the civil war, strange as this assertion may appear to college pedants, Cæsar was the defender of the constitution and of the law against the encroachments of an ambitious oligarchy. We have often been surprised that Edward Livingston, familiar as he was with ancient literature, should not have evoked the high authority of Cæsar against capital punishment; we allude to the following passage in his speech to the Senate: "As to punishments, we may say, what indeed is the truth, that to those who live in sorrow and misery, death is but a release from trouble; that it is death which puts an end to all the calamities of men; beyond it there is not care, no joy!" Such was the force of Cæsar's reasonings, so clear, too, his demonstration of the illegality of the proposed judgment, under the unrepealed provisions of the Porcian law, that Silanus, the consul-elect, changed the opinion he had first expressed, declaring himself of the same sentiment with T. Nero, who had proposed that "the guards should be strengthened and the debate adjourned." The limits prescribed to this article will not allow us to pursue the examination of that interesting debate, preserved at it has -- *Sallust The Conspiracy of Catiline. 161 been by no ordinary reporter. Cato was so convinced of the illegality of the course which he urged the Senate to pursue, that in voting for the immediate execution of the conspirators, he used the following singular expressions, that "they be put to death, according to the ancient usage, as being condemned by their own mouth;" plainly confessing that the witnesses produced against them had furnished no evidence of their guilt. Cato well knew, (but he was blinded by his aristocratic fanaticism), that though ancient usages may stand in the place of written laws, in the absence of positive and express enactment, yet it never was contended that when once those usages had been superseded by written laws, they could at pleasure be revived and put again in force, without even going through the formality of repealing the written laws. The case tried by the Senate was one provided for by a special law. The punishment of death had obtained in Rome formerly, not in virtue of ancient usage, as Cato expressed it, but as Cæsar said, "in imitation of the custom of Greece.— But when the commonwealth became great and powerful, the Porcian law and other laws were made, which provided no higher punishment than banishment for the greatest of crimes." The Senate having agreed to the proposal of Cato, and made a decree in conformity with it, "the Consul thought it most expedient to put the sentence in execution immediately. He himself, after posting the guards, conducted Lentulus to prison," (a distinction paid to the consular dignity he had borne), "as the prætors did the rest." Plutarch states that during the execution "the people stood silent at the horror of the scene ; and the youth looked on with fear and astonishment, as if they were being initiated that day in some awful ceremonies of aristocratic power." More fortunate that his friends who had remained in Rome, Catiline died like a soldier; when he saw his forces routed, "mindful of his birth," says Sallust, "he rushed headlong into the thickest of the foe, where he fell covered with wounds, and fighting to the last." Catiline had been guilty, long before he conspired against the Senate, of all the crimes that have impressed a lasting infamy on his character, and made his very name synonymous with vice and political iniquities. Yet such was the vile corruption of the Senate, that he had not been expelled that body by the Censors. Before plotting against the Senate, he had cut off the head of Marius Gratidianus, with his own hands, washed these in the lustral fountain of Apollo, poisoned his wife, murdered his brother, slain his only son, and seduced a vestal virgin. For these crimes Cicero L 162 The Antiquities of Central America. [August, 1841.] never denounced him. And yet for years he held his place in that assembly, neither tiring the patience of Cicero, nor wearing out that of the much-enduring conscript fathers. The Senate was filled with murderers. Ribellius, the friend of Cicero, and whom he defended when prosecuted by Clodius, had murdered Saturnius, a tribune of the people, cut off his head, and carried it as a show, to entertainments given him for ten successive days by the beauty and fashion of Rome. Hundreds of Senators had assisted at these cannibal banquets given in honor of an assassin! Milo, the bosom friend of Cicero, was disgraced by the worst of crimes, even before he had murdered Clodius! It is time that the true character of these pretended patriots of patrician birth should be stripped of the mask of virtue which inane pedants and designing politicians have put on their faces! There never was a worse government than that which Sylla had restored in Rome, by the slaughter of one hundred thousand Roman citizens, and which Julius Caesar overthrew amid the acclamations of a disenthralled people! Neither the examples, nor the maxims of Roman consuls, even in the early ages of the Republic, should be held up to the emulation of the youth of Democratic America. THE ANTIQUITIES OF CENTRAL AMERICA.* MR. STEPHENS, already well known to the reading world, as the author of travels in the most interesting regions of the eastern continent, is an intelligent and shrewd observer, and a remarkably agreeable narrator of his observations. A bold and indefatigable explorer, he is deterred from his pursuit neither by toil nor danger; he has braved single-handed the perils of the desert, its fiery suns and treacherous barbarians; and although by no means remarkable for strength of constitution or bodily robustness, has shown himself superior to the assaults of famine, thirst, and sickness, and in this respect at least eminently qualified for the arduous task of exploration, which he has so enthusiastically undertaken. It is to these qualifications, and more especially to the *Incidents of Travel in Central America, Chiapas and Yucatan. By John L. Stephens, Author of "Incidents of Travel in Egypt, Arabia Petrea, Syria, and The Holy Land." Illustrated by Numerous Engravings. 2 vols. 8vo.— Harper & Brothers, New York. 1841. The Antiquities of Central America. 163 pleasant, lively and captivating style of his narrations, that Mr. Stephens is indebted for the popularity which he has acquired, to a degree almost unexampled, with all classes of readers in America. His earlier voyages were undertaken, chiefly—it is understood— in the pursuit of health, and were prosecuted by himself alone, and unaided, except by his own energies. With no peculiar advantages, and certainly with no superabundance of means, he succeeded in penetrating farther into the interior of Edom, than any previous traveller; and he has recorded the wonders of that all-wondrous region with great felicity and truth. So great was the favor which he won by the first series of his "Incidents of Travel," that a very general satisfaction was manifested on the announcement that he had been nominated by the late President to a mission in Central America which would give him facilities for visiting the ruined cities, and exploring the antiquities of that wild region, concerning which reports so strange had gone abroad, and from a thorough examination of which such great results might be anticipated. This sense of pleasure was moreover destined to receive an augmentation, when it is understood that Mr. Stephens was to be accompanied on his tour by one of the most accomplished and accurate draughtsmen of the day. After the lapse of something more than a year the travellers returned, and rumor was at once awake with all her hundred tongues concerning the extraordinary nature, and the vast extent, of the ruins discovered by them, in the untrodden depths of the illimitable forests which have so long enshrouded them in a Cimmerian gloom. The appearance of the work, whose title furnishes the text of this paper, was hailed by an instantaneous rush upon its publishers, who were for many days literally unable to bind and deliver copies in sufficient quantities to supply the still increasing demand. In an incredibly short space of time, we understand, two editions have been consumed, and, like Oliver Twist, the public still "asks for more!" while the more distant portions of the Union have not been hitherto supplied commensurately with the home consumption. After stating this, it is unnecessary to add that this work has certainly not fallen short of, but has rather exceeded, the favor extended to its predecessors; and far from us be it to asset that it does not richly merit the popularity it has acquired. It is in all respects a valuable and delightful book. Lively and graphic in its style, sufficiently easy to be generally popular, full of pleasant anecdote, and possessing so deep an interest in its very subject, it could not fail to be, as it is, eagerly sought after, and appreciated fully. There is something exceedingly agreeable to a reader in the manner of Mr. Stephens; there is a good humor, a bonhommie about him, which is 164 The Antiquities of Central America. [August, 1841.] irresistibly fascinating. He is the very Democritus of travellers, laughing at inconveniences which would make some men gnash their teeth and tear their hair in anguish, making the best of every thing that turns up, and comforting himself with the truest philosophy under all the vexations and annoyances, the pains and perils which flesh is heir to,—and be it known that they are neither few nor trivial to the traveller in the tropical wilds of Guatemala and Honduras. There is another great point of excellence in Mr. Stephens—an excellence, too, supposed to be of rare occurrence among the tribe of voyagers—his perfect truthfulness, which makes itself evident at every line and sentence of the work; and as without this great qualification all others became valueless and vain, so with it many deficiencies may be passed over, and many errors pardoned. Were we about to institute an elaborate examination into this work in general, which we do not by any means propose to do, we should have been compelled to view in two different and wholly disconnected aspects,—first, as relating to the present condition of the country, its government, inhabitants, resources, scenery, &c., all of which topics are very fully and we think ably described and discussed in the volumes before us; and, secondly, as regards the ruins and antiquities which formed the great inducement to our author for the acceptance of his mission to a land certainly in no other wise inviting. As it is, however, we shall entirely pass over the former topics, as of great interest indeed to the philanthropist, the politician, and the political economist, but entirely apart from the subject which we propose to consider; premising merely that the picture drawn throughout these pages, of the social and political condition of Central America, is no less graphic than it is deplorable in its details, and that this portion of the work alone would repay richly the pains of reading it. It is to the antiquities, however, that we shall direct our attention; to the gigantic remains of no less than eight ruined cities, scattered over an extent of nearly three thousand miles, "strange in design, excellent in sculpture, rich in ornament, different from the works of any other people, their uses and purposes, their whole history, so entirely unknown, with hieroglyphics explaining all, but perfectly unintelligible,"—but proving most indisputably the fact that at least the central portion of this continent was at a remote period occupied by a people far, very far, advanced in civilization and the arts of life. The first of these cities visited by Mr. Stephens was Copan, as it is called from the name of the river on the left bank of which it is situated; and there his discoveries were such as to exceed the wildest dreams of the imagination. The Antiquities of Central America. 165 "The extent of the city, along the river, as ascertained by monuments still found, is more than two miles. There is one monument on the opposite side of the river, at the distance of a mile, on the top of a mountain two thousand feet high. Whether the city ever crossed the river, and extended to that monument, it is impossible to say. I believe not. At the rear is an unexplored forest in which there may be ruins. There are no remains of palaces or private buildings, and the principal part is that which stands on the bank of the river; and may, perhaps with propriety be called the Temple. "This temple is an oblong enclosure. The front or river wall extends on a right line, north and south, six hundred and twenty-four feet, and it is from sixty to ninety feet high. It is made of cut stones from three to six feet in length, and a foot and a half in breadth. The other three sides consist of ranges of steps and pyramidal structures, rising from thirty to one hundred and forty feet in height on the slope. The whole line of survey is two thousand eight hundred and sixty-six feet." On various parts of this elevation were found the remains of two circular towers with stairs, and several pyramidal structures of various sizes,—but be it observed, not one perfect quadrilateral pyramid,—a subterraneous sepulchre and passage leading to the river, and a vast number of columnar idols, which are the most striking feature of these ruins, with an altar in front of each, covered with most elaborate carvings and tablets of hieroglyphics. These idols, of which Mr. Catherwood has given a great number of superbly-executed drawings, have a general and distinctive character, the same in all the specimens. They vary in height from ten to twenty-four feet, and are of irregular quadrilateral form. On the front of each, at about two thirds of the height, is a human face; at a short distance below the face, the hand and arms from the elbow; and at the base, the feet and ankles. All the other parts of the front are covered with the richest and most elaborate ornaments, in alto-relievo, that can be imagined,—some having the appearance of highly-wrought robes, tunics, and head-dresses; others merely fantastical devices, seemingly unconnected with the main figure. The arms of all are decorated with bracelets, and many of the feet with sandals exquisitely sculptured. Among the ornaments and devices are many human heads of smaller size and various expression, but all extremely natural and many of them beautiful. The sides of these columnar statues are all decked with the same rich carvings, and the backs, in almost every instance, with rows of hieroglyphic characters. In front of each of these idols is an altar of stone, carved in devices similar to those of these strange sculptures, the top of one presenting a square surface, divided into thirty-six compartments or tablets of hieroglyphics, engraved upon the stone in bas-relief,—this being 166 The Antiquities of Central America. [August, 1841.] the only specimen of that kind of carving found at Copan, all the rest being in bold alto-relievo. It should here be observed, that, from the particular character of the faces, there can be but little doubt that they are portraits; some are male, several female,— two bearded and mustachioed, but the rest smooth. In no instance are the features distorted, hideous, or grotesque; but for the most part full of a calm and solemn quietude approaching nearly to the majestic beauty of the Egyptian sphynx. One face, (p. 140), peculiarly reminded us of the Egyptian character, both in its expression and in the form of the features. Two of the bearded countenances have something of the terrific in their aspect, but it is rather the sternness of features of, it may be, some fierce and daring king or hero, than the grotesque horrors of the ideal. The expression of one only (p. 158), is painful, with the mouth partially open ; and the general contour of the head and features of this specimen strike us as bearing a very marked resemblance to the modern Indian of North America. Of the rest it is very difficult to speak decidedly. With the exception of the face, at page 140, they do not certainly bear any resemblance to the features of the Coptic race ; nor, with the expectation of one (p. 156), attired in a strange turban head-dress, not much unlike the cap of the mandarins, do any resemble in the least degree the Chinese or Mongolian cast. The most part decidedly, in our opinion, have more affinity to the Caucasian or Semitic heads than to those of any other known race. We should, however, observe, that the foreheads, in the greater part of these heads, appear to have been flattened by artificial means. In addition to these wonderful relics of a perished race, were found several colossal heads, some prostrate, some erect on tabular bases, the head of a crocodile, and a vast number of sculptured works which Mr. Stephens calls death's-heads, but which he afterward suggest to be more probably the countenances of large apes, similar to the Cynocephali worshipped at Thebes and Luxor. In this suggestion we agree with him fully, — they are decidedly not interested to represent the human scull. The sculpture of all these remains is singularly deep and bold, the features and the hands standing out strongly prominent, and both the fingers and the feet exceedingly well executed, although somewhat still and formal. On one of the altars there are delineated sixteen figures, four on each side, sitting cross-legged, each on a hieroglyphic emblem, with their faces in profile, carved, like the rest, in strong relief ; but no statue was found, nor any column, either at Copan or in any other place, except at Uxmal, in Yucatan, where was discovered a double row of round pillars, eighteen inches in diameter, The Antiquities of Central America. 167 and three or four feet high, extending about one hundred feet along the platform. Many of the idols had been painted red, and Mr. Stephens observes, and we think with great justice, judging from the beautiful engravings with which the whole work is illustrated, that "it would be difficult to exceed the richness of the ornament, and sharpness of the sculpture." It is, however, very greatly to be regretted that Mr. Stephens was not sufficiently acquainted with the rudiments of geology to be enabled to inform his readers of what species of stone these wonderful monuments were composed ; as without this information it is not easy to form any opinion concerning the nature of the instruments by which they were graven, or concerning their duration or antiquity. All that were have been able to glean from these pages is the somewhat dubious statement that "the stone (in the quarries of Copan) is of a soft grit,"—a term which conveys no very definite impression—and again: "The stone of which all these altars and statues are made is a soft gritstone, from the quarries before referred to. At the quarries we observed many blocks with hard flint-stone distributed through them, which had been rejected by the workmen after they were quarried out. The back of this monument had contained two. Between the second and third tablets the flint has been picked out, and the sculptures is blurred; the other, in the last row but one from the bottom, remains untouched: an inference from this is, that the sculptor had no instruments with which he could cut so hard a stone, and, consequently, that iron was unknown. We had, of course, directed our searches and inquiries particularly to this point, but did not find any pieces of iron or other metal, nor could we hear any having been found there. Don Miguel had a collection of clay or flint stones, cut in the shape of arrow heads, which he thought, and Don Miguel was no fool, were the instruments employed. They were sufficiently hard to scratch into the stone. Perhaps by men accustomed to the use of them, the whole of the deep relief ornaments might have been scratched, but the clay stones themselves looked as if they had been cut by metal." This, it must be granted, is unsatisfactory enough; and not only unsatisfactory, but incorrect, and likely to produce very false impressions. What Mr. Stephens means by "soft grit-stone," we are utterly unable even to conjecture; we should have supposed sandstone, but that it is not, so far as we are aware, at all usual to find flint imbedded in that substance,—it being far more common to find it in the chalk formations. Be this, however, as it may, the inference drawn from the fact, that the workmen were unable to work flint into deeply-graven sculptures, is manifestly incorrect. Mr. Stephens argues that because they had the power of sculpturing the softer stone, but lacked wherewith to cut into the flint, 168 The Antiquities of Central America. [August, 1841.] they did not possess iron. Now, if the imbedded stones be flint, there is no such argument to be held at all; for the best sculptor that ever lived, provided with the best instruments of modern art, mallet and tempered steel, could effect little more on a material so intractable as flint, than the savage with his bone-chisel or flint-knife. Moreover, it would appear to us, that no process of scratching could possibly produce effects so bold and striking, as are exhibited in the profile view of the stone idol at page 148. Sculptures so strikingly prominent must have been wrought by the chisel and the mallet, although the chisel may have been flint-pointed. It is, however, a well-known and authenticated fact, that the Mexicans in the time of Cortez were provided with implements of brass, or tin-hardened copper, of which they had knives, spear-heads, and other weapons, and which would probably have been sufficiently hard to receive such an edge as would impress the softer kinds of stone. On the other hand, it is not easy to comprehend how, if the stone be of a very porous and friable nature, the monuments should have preserved for so many ages the sharpness of their outlines, and all their smallest details of adornment, so little scathed by the assaults of time and weather. Not to detain our readers in this place by the few brief remarks which Mr. Stephens makes concerning the probable origin of these stupendous remains, we shall at once pass on to the site of his discoveries. At Quirigua on the Motagua river, a pyramidal elevation similar to that of the great temple at Copan was found by our travellers, with altars, detached colossal heads, and columnar idols of the same character with those described already. Those at Quirigua were, however, greatly superior in size, one being thirty-three feet high, although the workmanship is not comparable to that of the others, the relief being less prominent, the details less elaborated, and the whole monuments apparently of older and ruder devise, and, what would confirm the opinion of their greater age, far more defaced and overrun with vegetation. At Santa Cruz del Quichè the ruins were of a very different nature, consisting of the sites of a palace and fortress, huge pyramidical elevations, with terraces, "and a tower in the centre, in all one hundred and twenty feet high. We ascended by steps to three ranges of terraces, and on the top entered an area enclosed by stone walls, and covered with hard cement, in many places still perfect. Thence we ascended by stone steps to the top of the tower, the whole of which was formerly covered with stucco, and stood as a fortress at the entrance of the great city of Utatlan, the capital of the kingdom of the Quichè Indians." This singular fortress is surrounded by a ditch and wall of hewn The Antiquities of Central America. 169 stone, and is embosomed on all sides in immense ravines, as is the area of the palace, which, is accessible only by the pass which the fortress was intended to command. This palace is entirely in ruins, the foundation only of the walls remaining, and the floor "of a hard cement, which, though year after year washed by the floods of the rainy season, is hard and durable as stone." "The most important part remaining of these ruins, is that which appears in the engraving and is called El Sacrificatorio, or the Place of Sacrifice. It is a quadrangular stone structure, sixty-six feet on each side at the base, and rising in a pyramidal form to the height, in its present condition, of thirty-three feet. On three sides there is a range of steps in the middle, each seventeen inches high, and but eight inches on the upper surface, which makes the range so steep, that in descending some caution is necessary. At the corner are four buttresses of cut stone, diminishing in size from the line of the square, and apparently intended to support the structure. On the side facing the west, there are no steps, but the surface is smooth, and covered with stucco, gray from long exposure. By breaking a little at the corners, we saw that there were different layers of stucco, doubtless put on at different times, and all had been ornamented with painted figures. In one place we made out the body of a leopard, well drawn and colored." In this place was discovered in 1834, during a thorough exploration made under a commission from the government of Guatemala, a hideous image or idol "of baked clay, very hard, and the surface as smooth as if coated with enamel. It is twelve inches high, and the interior is hollow, including the legs and arms." Mr. Stephens supposes that to have been a deity of the ancient inhabitants, and conjectures, "that to this earthen vessel human victims have been offered in sacrifice." The next ruins explored were a collection of mounds, caves, and catacombs, situated on a magnificent plain, bounded in the distance by lofty mountains, among which is the Sierra Madre. Of this place Mr. Stephens says: "It was surrounded by a ravine, and the general character of the ruins is the same as at Quichè, but the hand of destruction has fallen on it more heavily." At this place, which rejoices in the name Gueguetenango, was found a vault containing human bones, and four terra-cotta vessels—one a short-legged tripod, two vases of various forms, and a one-handled utensil, singular for its resemblance to many of the lamps and vessels found at Pompeii,—all of very good workmanship and highly polished. At Ocosinco, they discovered a stone house with its roof and all its walls and partitions complete, elevated, like all the rest, on a pyramidal elevation of great magnitude, the building fifty feet L2 170 The Antiquities of Central America [August, 1841.] front, and thirty-five feet deep, constructed of stone and lime, and the whole front once covered with stucco, of which, part of the cornice and some of the mouldings still remain. The roof was not arched, but made by overlapping stones, meeting at the top, and kept in position by the superincumbent weight. The lintel of the door in this building was a beam of wood, which their guide informed them was of the Sapote tree. "It was so hard that, on being struck, it rang like metal, and perfectly sound, without a worm-hole or other symptom of decay. The surface was smooth and even, and, from a very close examination, we were of the opinion that it must have been trimmed with an instrument of metal." Under this house was a subterraneous cave full of drawings and curious and interesting ornaments, which the closeness and excessive heat prevented Mr. Catherwood from copying. Beside this building were two others on pyramidal elevations, and beyond these, "an open table which had probably once been the site of the city. It was protected on all sides by terraces, overlooking for a great distance the whole country round, and rendering it impossible for an enemy to approach from any quarter, without being discovered. Across this table was high and narrow causeway, which seemed partly natural and partly artificial, and at some distance on which was a mound with the foundations of a building that had probably been a tower. Beyond this, the causeway extended till it joined a range of mountains." Of this place Mr. Stephens is inclined to believe that it existed at the time of the Spanish conquest, and was known to the invaders. "At all events," he adds, "there was no place we had seen which gave us such an idea of the vastness of the works erected by the original inhabitants." It was, however, not till they reached Palenque that they could really form any just estimation of these gigantic ruins of a perished race, or of the degree of civilization to which they must have attained before erecting so vast monuments as those before us. Here they found a vast palace, great part of it in excellent preservation with an external corridor of massive hewn stone, not arched but composed of stones overlapping like the Cyclopian galleries of Tiryns and Mycenæ, to which it bears no slight or fanciful resemblance; internal courts and galleries, and towers, enriched with sculptures, paintings, and stuccoed ornaments of wonderful finish and beauty, of which Mr. Catherwood has furnished us with transcripts singularly clear, and bearing the strongest internal evidences of their truth and correctness. In one of the chambers of this palace Mr. Stephens found a beam inscribed, as he thought, The Antiquities of Central America. 171 with hieroglyphics; it was moreover this gentleman's opinion that here, as at Ocosinco, the lintels of the building had been of wood, and that to this fact was attributed the downfall of many portions of the structure. We do not at all doubt the truth of this supposition, the rather that it was confirmed by yet more gigantic remains at Uxmal. Why, in buildings composed entirely of massive stonework, so important a part of the edifice should have been composed of what would appear the weaker and less durable material, cannot, from the data which we possess, be at this time explained. It may be, if we knew the nature of the stone which furnished the material, we might offer some solution to the enigma. If of a very soft and friable nature, it might have been impossible to get blocks of sufficient length capable of supporting the weight of the upper structure. It is to be hoped that, in a future edition, Mr. Stephens will endeavor, by reconsidering his memoranda, and taxing his memory to the utmost, to repair the sad omission he has made in stating nothing definite about the material of these reliques, a point on which in our opinion so much depends. For aught he has told us we cannot conjecture whether they are composed of limestone, granite, sandstone, or amygdaloid, nor does he once in the whole book allude to the formation of the country or the character of its rocks, so as to help us in anywise out of the difficulty. But to return to Palenque: in addition to the great palace, no less than five other structures, which were all fully and carefully explored, are exhibited to us in beautiful drawings—ground plan, and restored elevation, and internal sections showing the structure of the roofs, &c. These all stand, be it observed, on the same pyramidal elevations, all exhibit the same formation of roofs, and are all decorated in bas-reliefs, with sculptures of men and animals, and tablets of hieroglyphics doubtless explaining the signification of the whole. Of these devices the most interesting, doubtless, are two huge tablets representing each two figures, offering a sacrifice as it would seem of children, in the one instance to a vast bird perched upon a cross, in the other to a hideous mask with the tongue hanging out of the mouth—which, by the way, is identical with the central ornament in the stone calendar of Mexico. The figures, as well as all the ornaments, are beautifully executed, and equal in symmetry and proportion to the best specimens of Egyptian art. At Uxmal, in Yucatan, the remains are yet more extensive, comprising no less than sixteen pyramidal elevations crowned with buildings of the same general character as the rest. It is remarkable, however, that in these ruins the style of the ornaments is 172 The Antiquities of Central America. [August, 1841.] entirely unique, with no resemblance to those of Copan or Palenque or any others of the lost cities. "There is no rudeness, or barbarity in the designs or proportions; on the contrary the whole wears an architectural air of symmetry and grandeur; and as the stranger ascends the steps and casts a bewildered eye along its open desolate doors, it is hard to believe that he sees before him the work of a race in whose epitaph, as written by historians, they are called ignorant of art, and said to have perished in the rudeness of savage life. If it stood at this day on its grand artificial terrace in Hyde Park or the garden of the Tuilleries, it world form a new order, I do not say equalling, but not unworthy to stand side by side with the remains of Egyptian, Grecian, and Roman art." We have endeavored, in the few extracts we have made from this very pleasing book, and in the brief synopsis we have given of the discoveries made by Mr. Stephens and his fellow-traveller, to put it in the power of our readers to judge for themselves, in some degree, concerning the magnitude of the remains, the style of their architecture, their peculiarities of form and structure, and their probable antiquity; and we now propose to institute a brief consideration of the opinions at which have induced them. Before doing this, however, we must give our tribute of admiration to the resolution he has displayed in exploring these most interesting remains, to the careful and artistical manner in which he has described them and accompanied, by a running commentary, the exquisite drawings of Mr. Catherwood; and to the general talents he has manifested in the accomplishment of an arduous labor. Nor while doing this, must we omit to testify to the liberality and good taste displayed by the publishers of this very beautiful work. Nothing at all comparable to it in beauty or elegance of detail has ever issued from the American press, and we are bold to say that its accuracy will be found at least equal to its beauty. It would appear, with regard to his opinion concerning these American antiquities, that Mr. Stephens went to his task entirely free from all prejudice, and without any theory to support relating to their age of origin. This would at first sight strike an observer as being a beneficial trait,—and so it is assuredly as regards impartiality, but not so with respect to stability of opinion. We shall find, accordingly, that Mr. Stephens fluctuates, contradicts himself, and finally appears to have attained no very positive result of any kind. In speaking of the runs of Copan, the first he examined, he declares his opinion that it was inhabited at the time of the Spanish invasion, and inhabited too by its aboriginal The Antiquities of Central America. 173 builders; at the same time he cites a passage from the Spanish historian of Hernando de Chaves, speaking of the city of Copan and describing its earthern ramparts and wooden palisades, and then, the discrepancy seeming to strike him, wavers and evidently entertains doubts concerning the truth of his own hypothesis. In like manner, while speaking of Palenque, he states that Cortez passed on his march from Mexico to Honduras within twenty miles of that vast city, without appearing to have been aware of its existence. It must be here observed that all these ruins, with the exception of Uxmal, lie in the depths of forest-land so intricate and tangled that the monuments can only be exposed to view by cutting away the thicket by dint of vast labor; that they are so absolutely concealed by the luxuriant vegetation of the tropics, that a traveller may pass within a hundred yards of the largest buildings without suspecting their existence; and farther, that in all probability may more similar cities still lie entombed in the boundless wilderness, unknown and unvisited save by the wandering Indian. From a careful examination of ruins Mr. Stephens has come to the opinion that these works are the structures of an aboriginal people, utterly unconnected with those of any other people in the known world. From the absence of anything like excavations, which are the principal characteristics of Hindoo architecture, he argues that they are not of Indian origin. By a comparison of the irregular pyramidal elevations, each crowned with its temple, fort, or place, with the regular quadrilateral and equilateral pyramids of Egypt, on which, in no single instance, was any superstructure reared, by the absence of all obelisks or columns, and by the comparatively small size of the stones employed, he would prove that they were not Egyptian. That they are neither Greek nor Roman is self-evident, although there is much resemblance in parts to the Cyclopean style of the Pelasgic towns of Italy and Greece. From the existence of wooden beams in a state of perfect preservation, he would argue that, comparatively speaking, they are of modern date, and, in support of this presumption, he quotes various passages from the Spanish writers to prove that temples of stone and lime were standing, and in use throughout the country at the period of the invasion. And from an examination of the whole he concludes that there is no ground for ascribing to these ruins a very remote antiquity; and that they were the works of the races who occupied the country at the time of the invasion of the Spaniards, or of some not very distant progenitors. Here we much differ from Mr. Stephens almost entirely; for in 174 The Antiquities of Central America. [August, 1841.] the first place a careful examination of the remains, and especially of the alto-relievoes upon the walls, we come first to the opinion that the whole of these regions were, Mexico included, occupied by the same race, speaking the same or cognate languages, using the same hieroglyphical characters, and descended from the same original stock;—secondly, that this original stock was not aboriginal or indigenous to the country;—and thirdly, that although not Egyptian, they were of a people in some respects cognate to them, who had drawn a great portion of their ideas of sculpture at least, if not of architecture, from the inhabitants of the Nilotic valley. The general contour of the faces on the monuments at Copan is, as we before observed, Caucasian. That of the alto-relievoes on the walls at Palenque is very remarkable for the compressed foreheads and high aquiline faces—decidedly not Indian! At Copan, there is scarcely a countenance which might not be that of a white man. In the whole style, however, of the sculpture, the limbs unseparated from the trunks, the rigid formal attitudes, the positions of the limbs, and a hundred other points indescribable but very readily detected by a practised eye, the resemblance to Egyptian sculptures is so great as to induce a perfect certainty in our minds, that this American style originated from races who had seen at least the greater works of Egyptian art. With regard to the argument derived from the existence of wooden beams, we do not think that much stress can be laid on that fact as indicating a recent origin. In several of the cave-temples of the Hindoos—known beyond the possibility of doubt to be of immense antiquity—beams and ribs of wood, traversing and supporting the excavated roofs, exist to the present day perfectly sound and solid, and that too in situations at least as much exposed to the vicissitudes of temperature, as those of Ocosinco, Uxmal, or Palenque. There are many reasons for believing that the races inhabiting Central America were indeed descended from the temple-builders, and that they retained perhaps a portion of their arts and sciences; and it would seem from the mounds and relics of one kind or other found through the western districts of the United States, that they had either promulgated their knowledge in an inferior degree among the neighboring tribes, or that they had themselves degenerated more and more from the habits of their progenitors as they spread farther from the point which had been the centre of the original colony. That the history of these is races inscribed on their monuments cannot be doubted by any who look on the exquisite engravings with which this work is adorned. Whether they will ever be deciphered rests in the womb of time; but of one thing The Antiquities of Central America. 175 we are satisfied—that this language of the dead is not expressed by hieroglyphics, properly so described. All hieroglyphics have been divided into three classes,—phonetic, figurative, and symbolical. The phonetic hieroglyphics are those, each representation of which stands for the initial letter of its own name; a number o representations, included in a rectangular figure—or cartouche, as Champollion terms it—representing an entire word. Of this nature, then, these American designs surely are not; since they are all grotesque, monstrous combinations of shapes and things having no existence in nature, and therefore having no names, unless conventional, nor significations to the vulgar eye. The same objection applies in a smaller degree, though with no less certainty, to the figurative and symbolical systems, and in our opinion, at which we have not arrived without much thought and examination of the subject, the tablets here must be regarded as containing characters—representing, it may be, complex ideas, and not strictly alphabetical—and not as composed of anything which can with propriety be looked upon as hieroglyphical. The result of our examination of Mr. Stephens's work and the opinions therein expressed, is this: That the antiquities of Central America are of a very remote period; that they were the works of a people highly civilized and very far advanced in art and science, infinitely more so than the natives of the age of Cortez and the Spanish historians; that this people was not aboriginal, but foreign and adventitious,—probably, we think, a Phenician colony,—that they had began to degenerate before the arrival of the Spaniards, and that if any remnant of their civilization lingers among the remote and secluded Indians who dwell beyond the Cordilleras, it will be found degraded infinitely lower than it was in the days of the Incas. In a brief notice such as this, it is hardly possible to explain fully or in a satisfactory manner, the causes which have induced our belief of the Phenician origin of the temple-builders of America; at some future period we may revert to the subject and defend our opinion in extenso. For the moment, we would merely point to these facts, that the Phenicians of Palestine—the Canaanites of the Bible, and ancestors of the Carthaginians—the great commercial nation of antiquity, who had unquestionably circumnavigated the Cape of Good Hope, and who visited the rocky shores of Cornwall, allured by the riches of its mines,—are known to have borrowed the style of their architecture in some degree from the Egyptians, although themselves of Caucasian or Semitic origin. Of this architecture 176 The Antiquities of Central America [August, 1841.] no vestige has remained, unless in this remote nook of the new world — yet it is the similarity such as we might expect from the circumstances of the case. Again, the fact is singularly striking, that the weapons of the Phenicians were of copper, hardened by alloy of tin, as were those of the Mexicans ; that the religion of these, as of those, was the most cruel and bloody superstition, abounding in human sacrifices, immolation of children, and passing them through the fire in honor of Baal — the sun, worshipped by the Mexicans especially — or as he is otherwise called Moloch ; and lastly, that the religious edifices of the temple-building tribes of Mexico answer precisely to the terms employed in describing the temples of the idolatrous Canaanites — high places, namely, of false gods. One word farther only (if the abrupt transition may be allowed from the great Past to the greater Future), in relation to a subject to which the attention of our readers has before been directed, the project of a Ship Canal to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. In former articles (Dem. Rev. Oct. and Nov. 1839, Nos. XXII and XXIII) this important question has been elaborately discussed in the pages of this work,—a history given of the various inceptive attempts that have been started, with a view to the accomplishment of one of the most magnificent enterprises ever conceived by human genius, or achieved by human effort,—with such a topographical account of the routes through which it was proposed to carry it, as it was then in our power to give. It will be remembered by some of our readers, that it was then stated that the choice lay between two routes, the northern or Nicaragua route, and the southern, or that across the narrowest part of the isthmus of Panama. Both were stated to be in all probability perfectly practicable, though the latter appeared, from its great advantage in point of distance, in our present state of knowledge, the more desirable. Mr. Stephens gives some valuable information in relation to the former route, derived from the recent surveys of an English officer, Mr. Bailey ; which seems to set entirely at rest the question of its easy practicability, at a cost not exceeding from twenty to twenty-five millions of dollars— about the sum assumed in the articles here referred to. We cannot conclude without the expression of an earnest hope that not many more years will now be suffered to elapse without witnessing the execution of this great work, under the combined auspices of the chief commercial nations of the world,—among which, we trust, that in originating and promoting some energetic movement in relation to it, that of the United States will not be backward. 177 DEATH IN THE SCHOOL-ROOM. A FACT. TING-A-LING-LING-LING!—went the little bell on the teacher's desk of a village-school one morning, when the studies of the earlier part of the day were about half completed. It was well understood that this was a command for silence and attention; and when these had been obtained, the master spoke. He was a low thick-set man, and his name was Lugare. "Boys," said he, "I have had a complaint entered, that last night some of you were stealing fruit from Mr. Nichols's garden. I rather think I know the thief. Tim Barker, step up here, sir." The one to whom he spoke came forward. He was a slight, fair-looking boy of about fourteen; and his face had a laughing, good-humored expression, which even the charge now preferred against him, and the stern tone and threatening look of the teacher, had not entirely dissipated. The countenance of the boy, however, was too unearthly fair for health; it had, notwithstanding its fleshy, cheerful look, a singular cast as if some inward disease, and that a fearful one, were seated within. As the stripling stood before that place of judgment, that place, so often made the scene of heartless and coarse brutality, of timid innocence confused, helpless childhood outraged, and gentle feelings crushed—Lugare looked on him with a frown which plainly told that he felt in no very pleasant mood. Happily a worthier and more philosophical system is proving to men that schools can be better governed, than by lashes and tears and sighs. We are waxing toward that consummation when one of the old-fashioned schoolmasters, with his cowhide, his heavy birch-rod, and his many ingenious methods of child-torture, will be gazed upon as a scorned memento of an ignorant, cruel, and exploded doctrine. May propitious gales speed that day! "Were you by Mr. Nichols's garden-fence last night?" said Lugare. "Yes, sir," answered the boy: "I was." "Well, sir, I'm glad to find you so ready with your confession. And so you thought you could do a little robbing, and enjoy yourself in a manner you ought to be ashamed to own, without being punished, did you?" "I have not been robbing," replied the boy quickly. His face was suffused, whether with resentment or fright, it was difficult to tell. "And I didn't do anything last night, that I'm ashamed to own." VOL. IX. NO. XXXVIII.—M 178 Death in the School-Room. [August, 1841.] "No impudence!" exclaimed the teacher, passionately, as he grasped a long and heavy ratan: "give me none of your sharp speeches, or I'll thrash you till you beg like a dog." The youngster's face paled a little; his lip quivered, but he did not speak. "And pray, sir," continued Lugare, as the outward signs of wrath disappeared from his features; "what were you about the garden for? Perhaps you only received the plunder, and had an accomplice to do the more dangerous part of the job?" "I went that way because it is on my road home. I was there again afterward to meet an acquaintance; and—and— But I did not go into the garden, nor take anything away from it. I would not steal,—hardly to save myself from starving." "You had better have stuck to that last evening. You were seen, Tim Barker, to come from under Mr. Nichols's garden-fence, a little after nine o'clock, with a bag full of something or other, over your shoulders. The bag had every appearance of being filled with fruit, and this morning the melon-beds are found to have been completely cleared. Now, sir, what was there in that bag?" Like fire itself glowed the face of the detected lad. He spoke not a word. All the school had their eyes directed at him. The perspiration ran down his white forehead like rain-drops. "Speak, sir!" exclaimed Lugare, with a loud strike of his ratan on the desk. The boy looked as though he would faint. But the unmerciful teacher, confident of having brought to light a criminal, and exulting in the idea of the severe chastisement he should now be justified in inflicting, kept working himself up to a still greater and greater degree of passion. In the meantime, the child seemed hardly to know what to do with himself. His tongue cleaved to the roof of his mouth. Either he was very much frightened, or he was actually unwell. "Speak, I say!" again thundered Lugare; and his hand, grasping his ratan, towered above his head in a very significant manner. "I hardly can, sir," said the poor fellow faintly. His voice was husky and thick. "I will tell you some—some other time. Please to let me go to my seat—I a'n't well." "Oh yes; that's very likely;" and Mr. Lugare bulged out his nose and cheeks with contempt. "Do you think to make me believe your lies? I've found you out, sir, plainly enough; and I am satisfied that you are as precious a little villain as there is in the State. But I will postpone settling with you for an hour yet. I shall then call you up again; and if you don't tell the whole truth Death in the School-Room. 179 then, I will give you something that'll make you remember Mr. Nichols's melons for many a month to come:—go to your seat." Glad enough of the ungracious permission, and answering not a sound, the child crept tremblingly to his bench. He felt very strangely, dizzily—more as if he was in a dream than in real life; and laying his arms on his desk, bowed down his face between them. The pupils turned to their accustomed studies, for during the reign of Lugare in the village-school, they had been so used to scenes of violence and severe chastisement, that such things made but little interruption in the tenor of their way. Now, while the intervening hour is passing, we will clear up the mystery of the bag, and of young Barker being under the garden-fence on the preceding night. The boy's mother was a widow, and they both had to live in the very narrowest limits. His father had died when he was six years old, and little Tim was left a sickly emaciated infant whom no one expected to live many months. To the surprise of all, however, the poor child kept alive, and seemed to recover his health, as he certainly did his size and good looks. This was owing to the kind offices of an eminent physician who had a country-seat in the neighborhood, and who had been interested in the widow's little family. Tim, the physician said, might possibly outgrow his disease; but everything was uncertain. It was a mysterious and baffling malady; and it would not be wonderful if he should in some moment of apparent health be suddenly taken away. The poor widow was at first in a continual state of uneasiness; but several years had now passed, and none of the impending evils had fallen upon the boy's head. His mother seemed to feel confident that he would live, and be a help and an honor to her old age; and the two struggled on together, mutually happy in each other, and enduring much of poverty and discomfort without repining, each for the other's sake. Tim's pleasant disposition had made him many friends in the village, and among the rest a young farmer named Jones, who with his elder brother, worked a large farm in the neighborhood on shares. Jones very frequently made Tim a present of a bag of potatoes or corn, or some garden vegetables, which he took from his own stock; but as his partner was a parsimonious, high-tempered man, and had often said that Tim was an idle fellow, and ought not to be helped because he did not work, Jones generally made his gifts in such a manner that no one knew anything about them, except himself and the grateful objects of his kindness. It might be, too, that the widow was loath to have it understood by the neighbors that she received food from any one; for there is often an excusable pride in people of her condition which 180 Death in the School-Room. [August, 1841.] makes them shrink from being considered as objects of "charity" as they would from the severest pains. On the night in question, Tim had been told that Jones would send them a bag of potatoes, and the place at which they were to be waiting for him was fixed at Mr. Nichols's garden-fence. It was this bag that Tim had been seen staggering under, and which caused the unlucky boy to be accused and convicted by his teacher as a thief. That teacher was one little fitted for his important and responsible office. Hasty to decide, and inflexibly severe, he was the terror of the little world he ruled so despotically. Punishment he seemed to delight in. Knowing little of those sweet fountains which in children's breasts ever open quickly at the call of gentleness and kind words, he was feared by all for his sternness, and loved by none. I would that he were an isolated instance in his profession. The hour of grace had drawn to its close, and the time approached at which it was usual for Lugare to give his school a joyfully-received dismission. Now and then one of the scholars would direct a furtive glance at Tim, sometimes in pity, sometimes in indifference or inquiry. They knew that he would have no mercy shown him, and though most of them loved him, whipping was too common there to exact much sympathy. Every inquiring glance, however, remained unsatisfied, for at the end of the hour, Tim remained with his face completely hidden, and his head bowed in his arms, precisely as he had leaned himself when he first went to his seat. Lugare looked at the boy occasionally with a scowl which seemed to bode vengeance for his sullenness. At length the last class had been heard, and the last lesson recited, and Lugare seated himself behind his desk on the platform, with his longest and stoutest ratan before him. "Now, Barker," he said, "we'll settle that little business of yours. Just step up here." Tim did not move. The school-room was as still as the grave. Not a sound was to be heard, except occasionally a long-drawn breath. "Mind me, sir, or it will be the worse for you. Step up here, and take off your jacket!" The boy did not stir any more than if he had been of wood. Lugare shook with passion. He sat still a minute, as if considering the best way to wreak his vengeance. That minute, passed in death-like silence, was a fearful one to some of the children, for their faces whitened with fright. It seemed, as it slowly dropped away, like the minute which precedes the climax of an exquisitely-performed tragedy, when some mighty master of the histrionic art is treading the stage, and you and the multitude around you are waiting, with stretched nerves and suspended breath, in expectation of the terrible catastrophe. Death in the School-Room. 181 "Tim is asleep, sir," at length said one of the boys who sat near him. Lugare, at this intelligence, allowed his features to relax from their expression of savage anger into a smile, but that smile looked more malignant, if possible, than his former scowls. It might be that he felt amused at the horror depicted on the faces of those about him; or it might be that he was gloating in pleasure on the way in which he intended to wake the poor little slumberer. "Asleep! are you, my young gentleman!" said he; "let us see if we can't find something to tickle your eyes open. There's nothing like making the best of a bad case, boys. Tim, here, is determined not to be worried in his mind about a little flogging, for the thought of it can't even keep the little scoundrel awake." Lugare smiled again as he made the last observation. He grasped his ratan firmly, and descended from his seat. With light and stealthy steps he crossed the room, and stood by the unlucky sleeper. The boy was still as unconscious of his impending punishment as ever. He might be dreaming some golden dream of youth and pleasure; perhaps he was far away in the world of fancy, seeing scenes, and feeling delights, which cold reality never can bestow. Lugare lifted his ratan high over his head, and with the true and expert aim which he had acquired by long practice, brought it down on Tim's back with a force and whacking sound which seemed sufficient to awake a freezing man in his last lethargy. Quick and fast, blow followed blow. Without waiting to see the effect of the first cut, the brutal wretch plied his instrument of torture first on one side of the boy's back, and then on the other, and only stopped at the end of two or three minutes from very weariness. But still Tim showed no signs of motion; and as Lugare, provoked at his torpidity, jerked away one of the child's arms, on which he had been leaning over the desk, his head dropped down on the board with a dull sound, and his face lay turned up and exposed to view. When Lugare saw it, he stood like one transfixed by a basilisk. His countenance turned to a leaden whiteness; the ratan dropped from his grasp; and his eyes, stretched wide open, glared as at some monstrous spectacle of horror and death. The sweat started in great globules seemingly from every pore in his face; his skinny lips contracted, and showed his teeth; and when he at length stretched forth his arm, and with the end of one of his fingers touched the child's cheek, each limb quivered like the tongue of a snake; and his strength seemed as though it would momentarily fail him. The boy was dead. He had probably been so for some time, for his eyes were turned up, and his body was quite cold. The widow was now childless too. Death was in the school-room, and Lugare had been flogging A CORPSE. W.W. 182 [August, 1841.] POLITICAL PORTRAITS WITH PEN AND PENCIL. NO. XXV. HENRY HUBBARD, OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. There are too many citizens of the United States, residing out of New England, and without personal experience of the substantial virtues and warm feelings of its inhabitants, who have been told, and who believe, that the character of its people is essentially provincial, with cold hearts and circumscribed views ; that the qualities most in request are those which conduce to worldly ends ; that their sympathies are only for those plans which tend to their individual advancement, and their gratitude expressed only for the founders of their pecuniary prosperity. Without denying that the New England people have faults, and that, like all other communities of men, there are certain peculiarities among them which, pushed to an extreme, become grave and serious defects, it may be safely said, that the charge in question is one of those popular fallacies which, like the English notion of the physical inferiority of the American, or the want of courage of the French, experience and a closer observation are rapidly causing to disappear. The sympathies of the New Englanders are always excited by the remembrance of the daring and perseverance of those gallant borderers who, through years of poverty and hardship, contended with that most merciless of all foes, the aborigines of the country ; and their gratitude is never refused to those who, like the subject of this sketch, have distinguished themselves as fearless and intelligent advocates of such political principles as are consonant to the habits and genius of the people. Henry Hubbard was born in Charlestown, New Hampshire, in the year 1785. He is descended, by the father's side, from John Hubbard, who emigrated from England, and settled at Hadley, in Massachusetts, in the year 1660. He traces his origin, therefore, to one of those Puritan stocks, distinguished in the early history of the country, for the gallantry with which they maintained their ground in the stormy times which preceded and accompanied the Revolution, against the accumulated perils of an Indian warfare, a severe climate, and a country hardly removed from a state of rude, primeval nature. His father, John Hubbard, who died in the year 1806, was distinguished for great shrewdness and energy of character. He removed from Northfield, in Massachusetts, to Charlestown, before the Revolutionary war, and was Henry Hubbard, of New Hampshire. 183 one of those bold and self-relying men who had a sufficiently-just appreciation of the capabilities of the country, to be willing to run the hazards of what was, even then, a hostile and dangerous frontier. He was a man much noted for his active and ready talents, and for many years held the responsible office of Judge of Probate for the County of Cheshire. His grandfather, the Reverend John Hubbard, was for more than forty years the minister of Northfield ; and was esteemed, in his day and generation, as a divine well versed in the theological literature of the times, and as a man whose integrity and devotion to his duties were worthy of all praise. He died on the 28th day of November, 1794, in the sixty-ninth year of his age, and the forty-fifth of his ministry. A discourse was delivered at his funeral, by the Reverend Joseph Lyman, minister of Hatfield. It is entitled, "A Sermon delivered December 2, 1794, at the Funeral of that good Man and faithful Minister of Christ, the Rev. John Hubbard." It is said of him in the discourse, that "he was an affectionate and sound preacher of the gospel. He loved his people—he loved his work—he loved his Master. By the uncorruptness and purity of his life, he exemplified the doctrines which he taught. He labored after that ministerial greatness and dignity which consist in sound doctrine and holy living." Mr. Hubbard's mother, who died within a few years, at a very advanced age, was the daughter of Captain Phineas Stevens, of Charlestown, and was born in that fort, the chivalrous defence of which, in April, 1747, by her father, with thirty rangers, against a force of over four hundred French and Indians, has become part of the history of the country. Its last timbers have decayed, and all traces of the spot where it stood have been nearly obliterated by time ; but so long as devoted courage can make the heart throb, or the recital of a gallant deed can stir the pulses of men, will that fierce border contest be remembered, as a proof of what a few resolute men can effect, like that little band, who could declare, as they did, in answer to a summons to surrender, that "they would fight as long as they had life," and who were well described by their commander, as "not afraid to die." The English naval commander on the Boston station, Admiral Sir Charles Knowles, testified his regard for a brave man, by presenting Captain Stevens with a sword, and in return for this compliment, the township, then called Number Four, was incorporated by the name of Charlestown. Drawing her first breath in that lonely fort, and passing her youth among scenes of peril and excitement, Mrs. Hubbard became, as might be expected, a strong-minded and generous-hearted woman, and she has left to her 184 Political Portraits.—No. XXV. [August, 1841.] friends the affectionate remembrance of a character well worthy the daughter of an upright man and gallant soldier. Nearly allied to her, and to the subject of this sketch, is the Hon. Enos Stevens, of Charlestown ; a gentleman selected by the Whig party as their present candidate for the office of Governor, in opposition to Mr. Hubbard, and, of course, belonging to a different school in politics — but favorably known to all his fellow-citizens for his intelligence, his integrity of character, and purity of purpose. Mr. Hubbard received his early education under Mr. Hedge, who is still remembered as one of the most successful teachers of his day ; and after spending some time under the tuition of the Rev. Mr. Porter, the minister of Charlestown, in the year 1779, at the age of fourteen, he entered the Freshman class in Dartmouth college. After receiving his degree, he commenced the study of the law with Benjamin West, one of the most distinguished advocates then at the bar, and completed his professional education in the office of the celebrated Jeremiah Mason, well known as one of the most sagacious men and eminent jurists in New England. These gentlemen were prominent and powerful advocates of Federal principles in politics ; and their precepts and example produced their natural effect upon the early political feelings of their pupil. Thirty years ago, the doctrine of self-government, as applied to a nation, was not so well understood as at present, with the benefit of a more extensive experience. The apprehensions of many eminent men were almost morbidly alive to the dangers of anarchy and a dissolution of the restraints of society ; and many men of extensive views and ardent patriotism might well pause before adopting any principles of government charged with a tendency to bring back the state of civil dissension immediately consequent upon the war of the Revolution. All admitted that the people were the source of all earthly power ; but how far it was expedient for them to exercise it, was a matter of doubt among the people themselves. The leading doctrines of the Democratic party are no discoveries of recent date. They were even then recognised as legitimate deductions from the theory of our government. But it was a grave question with many, whether they could be fully acted upon in the then existing condition of the times. In the midst of these agitations, Mr. Hubbard, in the year 1812, entered the Legislature as the representative of his native town — an ardent young man, with sympathies ever alive to all popular rights. Like many other eminent men who have since distinguished themselves as advocates of a larger liberty than in those days was esteemed safe, his political views were Henry Hubbard, of New Hampshire. 185 the result rather of custom, than of reflection, and were impressions derived from the example and exhortations of his early instructers, rather than results of the operations of his own reason. The mind in such cases soon throws off the trammels of habit ; and as soon as it is permitted to act for itself, it adopts such principles of action as are best consistent with the feelings and tendencies of the individual. As his experience increased, his powers were developed, and he gradually allied himself with that great party to which he has belonged for the last twenty years. In the House, he soon made himself conspicuous for industry, and the eager interest with which he entered upon the affairs of the State, and for that perseverance and untiring exertion which have characterized him as a member of Congress. His mental qualities and popular manners soon recommended him to the favorable notice of the Legislature ; and in the year 1824 he was elected to the office of Speaker of the House, which he filled until the year 1827, when, being appointed judge of the court of probate for the county of Sullivan, he ceased to be a member of the Legislature. Mr. Hubbard was admirably qualified for the acceptable discharge of the duties of Speaker. His quick perception of parliamentary law, combined with an uncommon facility in disposing of business, rendered him one of the most popular and useful presiding officers that had been seen since the organization of the Government. While a member of the House, and its presiding officer, Mr. Hubbard made numerous acquaintances in all parts of the State. These acquaintances soon ripened into personal friendships ; for of all the prominent men that his State has produced, he probably possesses the most remarkable faculty for inspiring personal confidence and individual interest for himself, and at this time there is no man in the State personally known to so many of its citizens. These considerations, together with his strong democratic tendencies, and his value as a useful public servant, brought him before the people in the year 1829, as a candidate for a seat in Congress, and he commenced his public career with the accession to the Presidency of that remarkable man who impressed his character so deeply on the people and the times. In the House of Representatives he did not long remain unknown, and his industry and ready talents soon earned him a name and rank, in times when speeches were made for the purpose, now obsolete in that body, of producing conviction in the minds of an audience ; and when members of Congress imagined themselves sent to Washington for the discharge of some public duty. He was re-elected to Congress, and the question of the payment of the debt due the soldiers of the Revolution M2 186 Political Portraits.—No. XXV. [August, 1841.] soon engaged his attention. To a man of common sense and ordinary feelings of injustice, it appears astonishing at this day, that the propriety of the pension act of 1832 should ever have been questioned. Some thousands of citizens had left their homes, their families, their scanty possessions, to resist to subjugation of that common country, in which they had no deeper interest than those who remained by their firesides. They succeeded, and what was their reward? A few cheap resolutions of Congress— a profusion of thanks— and the scantiest and most insulting remuneration which a nation ever bestowed upon its defenders. It is unnecessary to pursue the subject farther than to say that Mr. Hubbard devoted himself to the success of this measure with the whole ardor of his disposition, and the passage of the bill was mainly owing to his individual efforts. The talent and perseverance displayed by him were not unnoticed in his State, and in the year 1834 he was elected to the Senate. In this higher sphere Mr. Hubbard's exertions were extremely gratifying to his constituents. He soon acquired a standing which steadily increased until the end of his Congressional life. As Chairman of the Committee on Claims, his services were in a high degree beneficial to the country. The duties of this position are onerous in the extreme, and if slighted, or not discharged with extreme caution, not only will the public suffer an almost incalculable pecuniary loss, but a most corrupting and pernicious example is held forth to all who are intrusted with the financial affairs of the nation. It is a grave fault in the American people, that they are too much absorbed in what is present and tangible. In the eager rivalry of business and politics, they often will refuse to stop and investigate; and while their representatives will delay the adjustment of even the most inconsiderable claim, however just it may be, where their prejudices are aroused, they will sometimes permit the most lavish expenditure when the subject of it is not calculated to provoke discussion. This indisposition to investigate was remedied by Mr. Hubbard, so far as the exertions of one man could extend—and he brought to this duty an extensive acquaintance with business, a shrewd judgment of men, and a vigilant attention. His well-known industry caused him to be overwhelmed with correspondence from all parts of the Union, which his sense of the duty of a Senator did not permit him to decline. But these avocations did not prevent his taking an active and eminent part in all the great questions which agitated the country. Of course, he could not in these times fearlessly express his opinions without incurring the hostility of that unfortunate class in the community who are forced to earn their daily bread with a Henry Hubbard, of New Hampshire. 187 daily libel. To these writers, nothing came more opportunely than the subject of the abolition of slavery, and the course of the northern Democracy in Congress upon the subject, for they could earn a cheap reputation for Christian humanity toward the slave, by expressing the most unchristian feelings in the bitterest language about all those who could not at once adopt the extremest measures on this matter. We all admit in words, that we may honestly differ as to the constitutional powers of Congress—and yet it seems to be often forgotten, that if the constitutional rights of the South are infringed, the blow is felt in the remotest portion of the Union, because in the Constitution we all have a common property, and the duty of the citizen of the North to resist an attack upon Southern rights, made through the machinery of the Federal Government, is as perfect as if the sectional position he happens to occupy in the Union were reversed. Mr. Hubbard was a consistent and fearless opponent of the easy and fashionable philanthropy of the day,—placing himself upon the impregnable ground that he believed the object sought to be attained was not within the powers of Congress nor within the legitimate scope of its constitutional action, directly or indirectly; and if so, it was immaterial whether northern or southern institutions were called in question, for all were entitled to the protection which the Constitution was intended to afford alike to all. As an active member of the Committee on Finance, Mr. Hubbard was of course engaged in the discussions which preceded the passage of the Independent Treasury bill, and as a debater no one was distinguished for greater clearness and logic. He early adopted the rule of never speaking unless he had something to say, and he brought to the discussion of a subject a quick perception of the point at issue, a patient investigation into the facts, and a retentive memory, which enabled him to throw upon the question the light of a ready, acute, and argumentative mind. Without recurring to the many subjects in the examination of which he has taken a prominent part, it is sufficient to refer to his speech against the Distribution of the Public Lands, and that against the Assumption of the State Debts, as remarkably well reasoned and statesmanlike performances, and combining a thorough acquaintance with all the necessary facts, with great lucidness of arrangement, and an accurate insight into the consequences of the measures proposed. Mr. Hubbard's laborious duties at Washington, did not, owing to his careful attention to business, at all interfere with his professional practice. When at home, he was constantly engaged at the bar for which his industry and quick perception so well fitted 188 Political Portraits.—No. XXV. [August, 1841] him. His Congressional life terminated in March, 1841. In the winter preceding, he was a candidate for re-election to the Senate, and Mr. Woodbury, the present distinguished Senator from New Hampshire, was likewise in the field. The contest was a close one, and for a long time it was doubtful to which side success would incline. But since the victory of the Whig party in the Presidential campaign, new considerations had urged themselves upon the Legislature, which had not before existed. It was remembered that Mr. Woodbury had been selected as the chief object of attack by the opposition, and it seemed but due to him, to permit him to answer for himself—and none could do it better— the various charges which political hostility and prejudiced ignorance had brought against his administration of the Treasury Department. The success of Mr. Woodbury did not impair the long friendship which had subsisted between them. Mr. Hubbard has been since, within a few months, nominated by the Democratic convention, as their candidate for the honorable office of Governor of the State, which position, with a certainty of triumph at the election, he at present occupies. The accompanying engraving will be recognized by all acquainted with its original as an excellent likeness. In person Mr. Hubbard is tall, and well and strongly proportioned. His style of speaking is easy, correct, and copious, rising often to in impressive and vigorous energy of manner, and at times warming with his subject and the occasion into eloquence. It may safely be said of Mr. Hubbard, that, notwithstanding the bitterness and acrimony with which political contests are waged, no man has fewer personal enemies. A ready tact, a free and frank manner, a conviction of what was due himself, and a willingness to yield their just claims to others, rendered him at Washington acceptable even to the most violent political opponents, and opened to him the hearts of his political friends. An ardent sympathy with all popular rights, a quick appreciation of the capacities of men, and the impulses of an affectionate disposition and temper, have given him a strong hold upon the confidence of that noble and unconquerable Democracy among whom he was born, and who, in electing him to the high office for which he is a candidate, will add another refutation to the calumny, that the people are insensible to the merits of those who have faithfully served the cause of the public. 189 WHIG BANKERS ON BANKING AND CURRENCY.* The champion of truth who engages in the sacred crusade of Reform against the interests and power of established Error, has a hard and heavy vocation to fulfil. It behoves him to count well the cost—to consider well his own powers of endurance as of action—before embarking on his perilous and arduous mission. Let him make up his mind to bear and to forbear much and long. Let him prepare himself to be the object of every species of abuse, misrepresentation and calumny, of the bitterest kind. Let him not shrink from the epithets which will be showered upon him, of destructive, disorganizer, visionary, jacobin, infidel, &c., &c. Let him receive as a matter of course the imputation of motives the most atrocious, or of a madness the most reckless, on the very occasions when he is most clearly conscious of the benevolent purity of his intentions, and most profoundly and calmly convinced that the preachings by which, with a noble enthusiasm, he is struggling to conquer over the reluctant prejudices of other men, are indeed, in the language of Paul to Festus, "the words of truth and soberness." Let him not be horror-stricken at hearing his name familiarly associated, by large and respectable portions of the society he is laboring to benefit, with the worst of those which crimson the darkest pages of the annals of the French Revolution. Let him not be surprised even to see vast numbers of those whom he knows to be the prudent, the respectable, the "timid good," conscientiously, however erroneously, affected by this conservative panic which it is so easy for alarmed error to raise, and, even amid the regrets of personal friendship, frowning a stern condemnation upon his objects, his efforts, and himself. All this, and more than this, let him expect fearlessly when he engages in such a cause, and let him patiently and manfully bear when it comes and while it lasts. Let him heed it only as the vessel heeds the angry foam of the waters which surge and rage around her bows, as she ploughs bravely through them her ever-onward and unswerving way. For let him repose in a perfect confidence on the assurance, that no word of truth ever uttered into the ears of men, in a spirit of truth, falls useless and wasted to the ground. Let him but persevere, and step after step— *Suggestions on the Banks and Currency of the several United States, in reference principally to the Suspension of Specie Payments. By Albert Gallatin. New York: Wiley and Putnam, 1841. Remarks on Currency and Banking, having reference to the present Derangement of the Circulating Medium in the United States. By Nathan Appleton. Boston: Charles C. Little and James Brown, MDCCCXLI. 190 Whig Bankers on Banking and Currency. [August, 1841.] slowly, insensibly perhaps, but surely—he will find himself making his way forward, to the final triumph of the truth over all the opposition of error. One after another he will find all the strongholds in which obstinate prejudice successively entrenched itself, yielding to the irresistible impulse of his movement, and standing thereafter, as he then looks back upon them, no longer obstacles to his advance, but triumphal trophies to mark its progress,— strong supports to his actual position, and cheering incentives to bolder efforts and greater achievements. This train of consoling and encouraging reflection is suggested with peculiar force to our mind by the perusal of the two pamphlets which furnish the occasion for the present article. They are both the productions of men eminent in the party by which the general financial policy of the late administration was so vehemently denounced—men from their personal character and talents commanding a high degree of public respect and confidence— and both connected intimately with the practical direction of the existing banking system at the two great centres of commercial wealth and activity to which they respectively belong. They relate, too, to the very topics which have constituted the principal subject of this long and strenuous struggle of argument between the two great parties by which the country has been so deeply agitated; and they are evidently elaborate and well matured expressions of convictions equally profound and sincere. Would it not be strange if we should find in them, conceded and laid down as fundamental truths, many of those very opinions upon which our side of the contest has been from the commencement insisting, and which at the time, when thus advanced by us, furnished the occasions for the most violent and embittered abuse alike of our doctrines and our motives? This great contest of public debate between the two parties— (we refer particularly to the period of Mr. Van Buren's administration, shortly after the commencement of which this Review was established)—we can compare to nothing better than a heady fight between two embattled armies extended over a vast and diversified surface of country. In the midst of all its din and dust and smoke, and its seeming confusion of "chaos come again," it is impossible at the time for any of the combatants who participate in it, to pronounce upon the progress of the general issue of the grand whole. Yet lo, before the close of the hot and weary day, the one side finds that it has gradually swept on, bearing the whole line of resistance before it, till it has now reached the very heart of the position so proudly held in the morning by the enemy's array; that most of the principal batteries of the latter have been silenced or driven off, and most of Whig Bankers on Banking and Currency. 191 the particular points at which the struggle was for a time the fiercest, have been carried, and remain in the undisputed possession of the victors,—while the enemy, thought still perhaps embodied in vast and formidable mass, has been forced gradually back, far to the rear of its original position. Such an issue, on every recognized principle of the art of war, is a regular defeat for the retreating party, and a glorious victory for that whose banner has thus moved forward, to occupy the position abandoned by the other. Such a triumph we claim for the party by which the general financial policy of the late administration has been sustained,— taking, as we do, these two publications as authentic and valid acts of surrender, by competent authorities of eminent rank in the party array of our opponents, of all the important points which we can show that they have conceded to us. The contest of parties of which we here speak is not, of course, that which resolves itself into the simple issue of numbers at the ballot-box; though even in that point of view we are still entitled to all the triumph of our great electoral victories of 1838 and '39, on the financial questions on which those elections expressly and distinctly turned. We refer to that of the general course of public debate between the two parties, on those leading topics of the currency, credit, and public finance, and the various measures connected therewith, which were the principal practical subjects of difference and discussion between the two. It is true that we were after all defeated in the general election that followed, by a majority of about five per cent. But it is equally true, that that result was the product of a great variety of other causes, having little or no reference to these subjects, causes which we have no intention here again to discuss; and that while a thousand other deceptive topics were crowded upon the public mind to bewilder and mislead its judgment, anything like a fair and frank discussion of these questions, or the formation of any distinct issues upon them whatever, was evaded with a degree of ingenuity and perseverance which baffled every attempt of ours to make them the turning points of the election. We do not propose here to retrace the whole line of the argument, on the grounds of political economy which we have been accustomed to maintain, on our side of the general discussion, in justification of the financial policy it has been ours to advocate. We will only refer to a few points of prominent importance, which may be said indeed to involve the merits of the whole controversy, and on which we find in the two remarkable pamphlets before us, the full concession of the justice of the views taken of them by the Democratic party. 192 Whig Bankers on Banking and Currency. [August, 1841.] In the first place, for example, it has been a favorite Whig idea, that bank paper was money; that no money, whether metallic or of paper, possessed, or need possess, any intrinsic value in itself, its sole function being that of "representing" the values of other things, according to certain conventional provisions of law; and that therefore a certain oblong printed paper representative of value, in which we should determine to have "confidence," which we should agree to receive and circulate as our "currency," would serve the proper purpose just as well, whatever might be the antiquated notions and practices of other nations, as one of a similar denomination stamped on the bright disk of a little circular piece of white or yellow metal. It is true that this notion presupposes a profound ignorance of the very first principles of the science of Political Economy. Its extensive prevalence throughout the great mass of the Whig party is nevertheless an unquestionable fact— "'Tis true, 'tis pity — and pity 'tis, 'tis true!" Were the following remarks on this point from the pen of a Benton, a Gouge, a Leggett, or a Democratic Reviewer, they would be rejected with contempt for the ignorance, or with horror for the depravity, they would be presumed, as of course, to indicate. From the lips of one of the most wealthy and intelligent Whig merchants and bankers of Boston, it is to be hoped that their self-evident truth may have a chance to meet with a somewhat more favorable reception: "The general consent of mankind has established gold and silver as the common measure of the value of all other commodities, and has given them, in the state of coin, the name of money; some nations making use of one of these metals, some of the other, and some of both. "Coinage may be considered as merely the affixing a certificate of the Government to the quantity of pure silver or gold contained in each coin respectively, on which alone its value depends. The fitness of gold and silver for the medium of exchanging all other commodities, arises from their containing much value in small bulk, from the difficulty of their quantity being materially increased, from their easy divisibility, and their indestructibility. "It is usual to consider these precious metals as the common measure of other property; but they have another quality essential to their performance of the function of money. Their intrinsic value makes them also the common equivalent. They not only measure the value of other commodities, they replace it; this is an important distinction. * * * * * * * * "Bank-notes are promises to pay on demand a given quantity of coin; they are promises to pay money, but they are not money in themselves. This is an important distinction, and the not making it is the source of most of the popular errors on the subject of currency." Whig Bankers on Banking and Currency. 193 Let us once get this "important distinction" fairly understood by the people, and we have no fear that the "popular errors on the subject of currency" by which the minds of so large a portion of them have been so egregiously deluded by the cunning clamors of our opponents, will long prevail. Another favorite idea of those profound political economists who discourse daily wisdom through the columns of most of the Whig press, has been, that if our currency were purely metallic, there would not be enough of it; and that therefore a bank circulation is necessary to supply the amount of currency required by the wants of our active domestic and foreign commerce. We have even heard many a very worthy and respectable gentleman insist with great vehemence, that there is not gold and silver enough in the world to serve the necessary purposes of currency for the United States. On this point Mr. Appleton very coolly, and very correctly, tells his Whig readers that— "It seems to be the opinion of the best writers on the subject, that the most perfect bank circulation would be one which should be precisely equal in amount to what the circulation of the same country would be in the precious metals, were no other circulation permitted." In other words, instead of its being a desirable object to promote a more full and abundant circulation of "money," through the use of bank-paper, in lieu of gold and silver, the highest degree of perfection at which even the theory of a paper currency can aim, is, that it should not exceed the amount which would circulate, under the operation of the great laws of trade, were it purely metallic. The utility of the "elasticity" of a paper circulating medium, is one of those old Whig ideas which we had to combat at a former day, though we have of late not heard much on that once favorite text. What is Mr. Appleton's opinion on this point? "The great evil of the modern system of banking is the great fluctuation which it is liable to produce in the quantity of the circulating medium. This is easily understood. Bank-notes being, as already shown,* preferable for common uses to coin, and costing nothing to make, the process of increasing the circulating medium is very easy, and is certain to go on until it meets the necessary check in a demand for payment. This check the individual bank will receive in its exchanges with other banks. However individuals may in their transactions consider a bank-note as money, the banks themselves take a different view of the matter. A bank balance can only be paid in coin. Here is a check upon an individual bank; but suppose all the banks expand simultaneously, or nearly so, which is very apt to be the case, this check ceases to operate." * With all respect for our candid and liberal author, we must be permitted to remark that he has not "already shown" any such thing. He has simply as- VOL. IX. NO. XXXVIII.—N 194 Whig Bankers on Banking and Currency. [August, 1841.] He then proceeds to give a rapid view of the consequences of these "elastic" expansions, which have been so often depicted at length by the Democratic writers and speakers within the last few years: "An expansion of the currency tends to an advance of prices—excites commercial enterprise, and finally speculation and over-trade. High prices encourage importation and discourage exploration, a rise in the foreign exchange follows, which causes an export of specie, which acts as a corrective, by compelling the banks to call in a portion of their issues. This is done by lessening or suspending their usual discounts. Here is action and reaction—very beautiful, and all very agreeable to the public, except the last part of the process. A contraction of the currency causes a contraction of the money-market—reduces prices—paralyzes trade—brings out failures. This is all very disagreeable. It makes what is called 'hard times.' But in fact it is always a return from a false position to a true one. It is never necessary to diminish a currency which has not been redundant. The violence of the pressure is in proportion to the extent of the over-trade; and, generally, the more violent the pressure, the shorter the period." Will not the reflection possibly suggest itself to some of Mr. Appleton's readers, that, inasmuch as the "most perfect bank circulation" would be one that should not exceed in amount that of gold and silver that would be in circulation if no paper money were in existence, Benton's "specie humbug" may not be so ridiculous an absurdity after all; and that it might be better to keep the currency down to the equable regularity of the specie itself (whether in the immediate metallic form, or in that of paper certificates of actual specie deposites of dollar for dollar), rather than keep the industry and commerce of the country perpetually subject to the alternate fluctuations inseparable from every form of paper currency? Mr Gallatin very truly admits the one solitary advantage to be sumed the fact that paper is actually in general use among us, in lieu of gold and silver, as being such "preference"—which he declares to rest upon these grounds, namely, "facility of counting, facility of transportation or transmission, and security against robbery." Now, it is clear that these grounds of preference are only applicable to paper of large dimensions. For hand-to-hand circulation, in all the ordinary minor transactions of life, it is evident that gold, while far more convenient to count (with regard to the detection of counterfeits) is equally convenient to carry or to guard. Moreover, it should be borne in mind, that the most ultra monochrysargyrist in the land has no objection to paper issued from banks of mere deposite, representing bona-fide dollar for dollar—a kind of currency which, with every advantage of form that can be claimed for paper, would combine nearly every advantage of solid substance of the precious metals themselves. Whig Bankers on Banking and Currency. 195 pleaded in behalf of a paper currency, even when most cautiously restrained within those limits necessary to constitute the "most perfect bank circulation,"—namely, the benefit of having the use of so much additional capital as is equivalent to the difference between the amount of bank circulation and that of its specie basis reserved in the vaults of those institutions. This benefit resolves itself of course into that of the annual interest upon that amount. "The actual circulation of all the banks in the United States," says Mr. Gallatin, "does not, when in a healthy situation, much exceed eighty millions of dollars. Deducting twenty millions in specie, which the banks must keep on an average to meet demands on the part of their liabilities, there remain sixty millions which, instead of being applied to the purchase of gold and silver, are applied to productive purposes, and add as much to the productive capital of the country." The annual value of sixty millions cannot exceed four millions—a sum utterly insignificant in comparison with the annual value of the production of the country, which is generally computed, at the lowest of all the calculations made, to exceed a thousand millions. Of what account is a trifling economy of a few millions thus saved in interest, by the substitution of paper currency, with all its mischief and perpetual dangers, for that of the precious metals, so easily procured in any quantity that may be wanted? Independently of its fatal evil of incessant fluctuation—fatal, morally as well as materially, in ten thousand ways—the costliness of the machinery through which the paper currency is to be manufactured and maintained, is evidently more than an equivalent to the paltry parsimony of interest above referred to. Mr. Appleton very correctly illustrates the functions and uses of currency, by calling it the nation's "tools of trade." What intelligent mechanic begrudges the interest upon the necessary prime cost of his "tools"—or in the use of his machinery would forego the advantages of vast superiority of construction, regularity of action, and security from explosion or derangement, for the sake of a trifling saving in the interest upon the prime cost, not equal at best to a half of one per cent. upon the value of the annual production of his industry? There are other points in the two pamphlets here under review, to which we had intended to invite the attention of our Whig readers—especially those in which is to be found the entire surrender of nearly all the old arguments in favor of a National Bank, for the "regulation of the currency and exchanges," &c. The exhaustion of our present limits of space compels us to terminate here abruptly, with a promise to resume the subject in our next Number. 196 [August, 1841.] MONTHLY LITERARY RECORD NOTICES OF NEW BOOKS. CHRONICLES OF THE PILGRIM FATHERS OF THE COLONY OF PLYMOUTH, FROM 1602 TO 1625. Now first collected from original records and contemporaneous printed documents, and illustrated with notes. By Alexander Young. "Gentis cunabula nostræ." "The mother of us all." One Vol. 8vo. Boston: Charles C. Little and James Brown. MDCCCXLI. We hope in an early number of this Review to be enabled to make this interesting and valuable volume the subject of a more extended article, than is permitted by the limited space allowed us on the present page. We will not, however, omit now briefly to express our sense of the obligation which, in the "labor of love" whose splendid result is before us, its learned editor has conferred, not alone on his own native New England, but in a more extended sense on his country. The memory of the Pilgrim Fathers is indeed a national treasures whose value—far from undergoing any diminution with the lapse of years—is but enhanced in proportion to the ever magnifying contrast between the seed planted by them, on the rugged soil which first received their steps as they landed from the deck of 'the little Mayflower," and this magnificent tree, rich with fruits of knowledge and of life, which has sprung up out of the divine vitality of the humble and down-trodden seed, and whose branches already spread their pleasant shade and shelter over a mighty nation—a nation whose present greatness, too, is but the infancy of that which awaits its future progress and development. In this volume the editor has admirably realized his design of "erecting another monument to the memory of the Pilgrims." The publishers, too, have well contributed their part to the pious and grateful task, its typographical execution being in a style in every respect unsurpassed by that of any book that has heretofore issued from any American press. These precious records of the Pilgrims are by the hands of the Pilgrims themselves alone. Consisting entirely of contemporaneous documents, Mr. Young justly says in his preface, that their value cannot be overstated. They are the earliest chronicles of New England—the first book of its history, written by the actors themselves; and it is indeed a "peculiar privilege" that we thus have the whole story of the origin of this by far most important and interesting of our colonies in the very words of the first planters. The first of the documents is a history of the people and colony from the early date of 1602, nearly twenty years before the landing at Plymouth, down to that event, by Governor Bradford, the second governor of the colony ; giving a graphic account, in a fine manner of strong and solemn simplicity, of their origin in the north of England, their persecutions, departure to Holland, residence there, removal, voyage and arrival at Cape Cod. The manuscript of this valuable work, which had been used by secretary Morton in compiling his Memorial, by Hutchinson in writing his History of Massachusetts, and by Prince in digesting his Annals of New England, having been deposited in the tower of the "Old South," in Boston, and having disappeared in the war of the Revolution, when the venerable old church was occupied by the British troops, had long been given up by our historians as lost. A copy of it was found a few years ago by Mr. Young in the records of the First Church at Plymouth, in the hand-writing of secretary Morton, of which the original authorship has heretofore been ascribed to Morton himself by all who had preceded him in the examination of the records, but which Mr. Young discovered to be the long lost history of Governor Bradford, not only from its correspondence with the extracts given by Hutchinson and Prince, but from a marginal note to that effect by Morton himself. The editor has a full right to remark, in his preface, in which this narration is given, that the value of this document "takes precedence of everything else relating to the Notices of New Books. 197 Pilgrims in time, authority and interest." Other documents of kindred interest and value, which we cannot here command the space to enumerate, take up the thread of the history from the time of the landing of the colony, and it is carried down to 1625. The historical and illustrative notes by the editor are copious and valuable, being characterized equally by elegance and taste, and by extent and accuracy of learning. The engraving of Governor Winslow, from an old original portrait painted in London in 1651, and preserved in the Winslow family, and now deposited in the hall of the Massachusetts Historical Society, has been executed by House in a style worthy of the general character, external and internal, of the whole work. This portrait, we are informed, is the only one in existence of any of the Pilgrims. We hope soon to be able to return to this delightful volume, by which, though no New Englander, either born or bred, we confess we have been thoroughly fascinated from beginning to end ; and in the mean time have but one word to say at parting — that no American library can pretend to completeness without it ; and that especially every New Englander, whether himself "to the manner born," or entitled to that honorable name only by ancestral right, ought to possess himself of it, so soon as he had laid the foundation of his library in a Bible and Shakspere. And let him then, by diligent and reverential zeal in the study of its pages, endeavor to imbue his mind as deeply as he may with the noble spirit that ever impelled and sustained that sacred little band, whose first labors and hardships, for the sake of conscience and freedom, in laying the foundations of the vast social edifice which has gradually risen upon them, are here recorded, in the "chronicles" which their own hands have transmitted to their descendants. LIFE OF PETRARCH. By Thomas Campbell, Esq. Author of "The Pleasures of Hope," &c. &c., Complete in 1 volume, 8vo. Philadelphia: Carey & Hart, 1841. It is Hallam, we believe who elegantly styles Petrarch the "morning-star" of our modern literature. Mingling his softer ray with the intenser blaze of the name of Dante, and the bright but impure beam of that of Boccaccio, he shines indeed on the verge of the darkness of the ages whose long night found its close in the fourteenth century, a glorious herald of the new day which was fast breaking upon Europe. His services to the cause of literature are too universally known to need more than an allusion, not only in purifying and establishing the Italian language, but also in the cultivation of classical learning and philosophy, the diffusion of a kindred spirit by his example and influence, and his well-directed zeal in resuming many copies of the classics from the destruction which was fast settling irrecoverably upon them. The translation of De Sade's life of Petrarch is the only one, to our knowledge, in the possession of the English reader, and it may well be esteemed a fortunate accident which directed to this subject the attention of one so eminently qualified, in many, though we cannot say in all respects, to do it justice, and to treat it with the sympathetic love of kindred poetical genius. Campbell's work is an elegant and finished production, and cannot fail to be a welcome addition to the library of every lover of letters. The manly and high-toned republicanism of his political ideas and conduct— his fearless denunciation of the church, and of some of the other dominant superstitions of the day—his classic enthusiasm for the ancient glories of his beloved Rome, of which he vainly hoped that a revival was dawning, when Rienzi's meteor streamed for a brief while athwart its long darkened horizon—his nobleness in friendship and his higher nobleness in love—these are some of the leading traits of character which, joined to all those personal accomplishments that stamped him beyond compare the most fascinating man of his times, surround the very name of Petrarch with a brightness and a charm, which make it easy for us to understand, not hard to sympathize with, the enthusiasm with which it has been for five hundred years cherished by his native Italy. But after all, it is not as the philosopher, or the patriot, or the man of learning, but as Laura's lover, that the name of Petrarch is, at the same time, the most dear, as it is the most familiar to us all. Misplaced as this love may have been, yet, as justly 198 Monthly Literary Record. [August, 1841.] remarks his biographer, its utterance was at once so fervid and delicate, and its enthusiasm so enduring, that the purest minds feel satisfied in abstracting from their consideration the unhappiness of the attachment, and attending only to its devout fidelity. With women, in particular, as Mr. Campbell says, he must always be a first favorite (though not, we trust, on that ground with women alone), from a wise instinctive consciousness of the worthlessness of the offer of love to them without enthusiasm, refinement, and constancy, and of its pricelessness when thus elevated from the fouler atmosphere of the earth to the pure ether of its native empyrean. It is no wonder, therefore, that they should ever remain grateful to him for holding up the perfect image of a lover, and that they regard him as a friend to that passion on the delicacy and constancy of which the happiness, the most hallowed ties, and the very continuance of the species depend. Mr. Campbell — like Sismondi, in his History of Italian Literature — is not, however, very enthusiastic in his appreciation Petrarch's love-poetry ; though he candidly admits that it may be owing to the fact of his not having studied the Italian language, till at a later period of life than enables the ear to be perfectly sensitive to its harmony ; — he might, perhaps, have added, or the heart, to all which that language, as poured from the poet's glowing lips, was made to convey. "It is true," he says, "that, compared with his brothers of classical antiquity in love-poetry, he appears like an Abel of purity offering innocent incense at the side of so many Cains, making their carnal sacrifices. Tibullus alone anticipates his tenderness. At the same time, while Petrarch is purer than those classical lovers, he is never so natural as they sometimes are when their passages are least objectionable, and the sun-bursts of his real, manly, and natural human love seem to me to come to us struggling through the clouds of Platonism." The typographical dress of Mr. Campbell's elegant work well befits its contents. It makes one of the handsomest volumes that have issued from the press of the liberal and enterprising publishers whose imprint it bears. -- LECTURES ON THE HISTORY OF LITERATURE, ANCIENT AND MODERN. From the German of Frederick Schlegel. New York : J. & H. G. Langley, 57 Chatham Street. MDCCCXLI. The reputation of Frederick Schlegel as an elegant and philosophical critic, is too well known to render anything more than the simple announcement of this American republication of these Lectures, necessary to commend it to an immediate favorable reception by the public. Its subject, too, is one to which attaches a deep interest that will scarcely fail to make a volume embracing within so small a compass so wide a range of information, alike useful and agreeable, extensively sought after and read. Hallam's recent work confines itself to the three centuries, from the revival of letters in Europe to the commencement of the eighteenth ; and, invaluable as it is, it may rather be regarded as a dictionary of the history of the literature of Europe for the period to which it relates, than a generalized history in the more enlarged and elevated sense of the term. The Lectures here republished, while a very valuable accompaniment to Hallam, so far as the latter goes, include the literatures of Greece and Rome and of India, as well as of the past century, which has been pregnant with most important events in the development of the progress of literature. An idea of the general scope and character of the work may be best conveyed in the words of the author himself, who states that his design has been to give a general view of the development and of the spirit of literature among the most illustrious nations of ancient as well as of modern times — with a more particular reference to the object of representing it as it has exerted its influence on the affairs of active life, or the fate of nations, and on the progressive character of ages. The translation is anonymous, but it is generally, we believe, attributed to Lockhart — a belief which finds every confirmation in the elegance and fine finish of its execution. The American editor has added a valuable improvement to the English edition in a well digested index; and in point of typography &c., it is highly creditable to the publishers as to the New York press. Notices of New Books. 199 THE MERCHANT'S WIDOW, AND OTHER TALES. By Mrs. Caroline M. Sawyer. New York : P. P. Price, 130 Fulton Street, 1841. This modest little volume contains three tales, by an accomplished lady whose pleasing, though perhaps not very practised pen, has contributed some verses of a very sweet and touching simplicity to the present number of our own work. Many passages of a considerable degree of pathetic beauty will be found in them ; and though not usually apt to get very far in a volume of "Tales," we confess that we have found ourselves beguiled on through the present one, by a certain quiet charm which finally carried us to its concluding page. The last tale is the best. -- THE SCIENCE OF GOVERNMENT, FOUNDED ON NATURAL LAW. By Clinton Roosevelt, New York : Published by Dean & Trevett, 121 Fulton street, 1841. Our interest in the subject and sympathy with the motives which seem to have prompted the publication of this, which we can scarcely, like that just noticed, style modest little volume, have overcome the disinclination to its perusal, awakened by the tone of its preface, — in which the author virtually introduces himself to the reader as a very great "giant" of "powerful thought," because his book is a very diminutive one ; and then apologizes for doing himself that reluctant justice, because his object is "to speak exactly as he thinks, with mathematical precision." Really however desirous we feel of encouraging inquiries of this general nature, we cannot allow such a preface to pass without a friendly hint to the author to begin his radical reforms there, in any future edition which his work may be destined to reach. With many of Mr. Roosevelt's remarks on the existing evils of our social arrangements, though containing nothing which is not entirely familiar to those whose reflections have run at all in that direction, we fully agree and warmly and strongly sympathize. Some of them are marked with force and feeling. Perhaps on behalf of "Christianity," we ought to thank him for the flattering civility with which he treats it, though he takes pains to inform us that he has nothing more than a mere bowing acquaintance with it. Having neither time, space nor inclination at present to enter upon such a discussion, we shall not give any farther account of his views of social reform, than to state, that while he utterly repudiates that philosophy of FREEDOM to which we have always professed adhesion, he proposes to reorganize society on principles of military combination and martinet uniformity. Everything is to be discipline, control, direction, government–ascending and centralizing till it reaches a single all-paramount individual command-in-chief. His new notion of a paper-money, immediately representing labor, seems to us the very crudest of all the crudities which have sprung from the inexhaustible source of that subject. The impracticability of his plans, fortunately, we regard as their best feature, — for if carried into effect we have little doubt they would lead only to results far worse than those they aim to cure. However, little as we agree with him, we think Mr. Roosevelt entitled to praise for what he has one. We repeat that we would encourage such discussions. It is very certain that human society is in a sad state enough now ; and it must grope perhaps many a time blindly and wrong before the true way of escape from it is to be found, up toward those better and happier social arrangements for which we cannot doubt that our nature was designed and created by its all-wise and benevolent Author. -- NOTE UPON ARMSTRONG'S HISTORY OF THE LATE WAR. DEMOCRATIC REVIEW FOR JULY, 1841. In our last Number (page 52) a mistake of memory was committed in the article on General Armstrong's recent work, which, in justice to the venerable soldier, we hasten thus to correct. Allusion was made to "the removal of General Armstrong," then Secretary of War, by President Madison, in connexion with the unhappy disasters of Bladensburgh and Washington. This was an important error. The Secretary resigned his office, of his own voluntary accord, immediately quitting the seat of government — in displeasure because the President did not at once, as he felt that he ought to have done, frown upon the unjust clamors which were raised against the minister who had fully discharged all his duty, and upon the "manifestation of spurious patriotism, chiefly "from among the most ardent opposers of the war." 200 [August, 1841.] LITERARY INTELLIGENCE. [Editors of Papers, who extract from the following Literary Intelligence, are respectfully requested to credit the same to the Review, as it is collected with considerable care and labor.] The popular novel, entitled Ten Thousand a Year, is, we observe, to be completed in the ensuing number of Blackwood. The Talmud. The Middletown Wesleyan University have lately authorized the purchase of a very fine edition of this rare and valuable work. It is comprised in 12 volumes folio. M. Scribe, the celebrated French dramatic author, has, since 1812, written 315 pieces, which have produced him the sum of 2,400,000 francs. Each piece (generally in one or two acts) averages 6,619 francs. An Illustrated Bible, in 45 folio volumes, with 7000 prints and drawings, has been lately raffled for in London. It was valued at 3000 guineas! The Ex-Queen of Spain is occupying her leisure hours, at the Palais Royal in Paris, in writing an historical work,—"Memoirs of her 11 years' reign." The first book ever printed was the Mazian Bible, in Latin, supposed to have been issued between the years 1450 and 1455. Messrs. de Tocqueville and G. de Beaumont have arrived in Paris from Africa, where their stay was somewhat shorter than they intended. They visited the provinces of Algiers and Oran, and were proceeding to traverse that of Constantina, when M. de Tocqueville was attacked with an endemic fever between Constantina and Phillippeville. This induced him and his fellow-traveller to come home at once. Since the days of Napoleon, the activity of the French press has been greatly augmented. The number of printed sheets, exclusive of Newspapers, amounted in 1826 to 66,852,883; and in ten years there was an increase of 16,158,600; at the present day that number is about doubled. The French booksellers, are brevetés, that is licensed, and bound to observe certain rules. French dealers regulate their discounts by the subject, not the size of the volume, as we do: for instance, on historical works and general literature, they allow 25 per cent.; on mathematics and works of science, from 10 to 15; but on works of fiction as much as 50 to 60 per cent. This rate of estimate offers a singular contrast to that of our publishers. The piracy still practised by the Booksellers at Brussels is prodigious. English works being produced literally at the cost of paper and printing. The same system obtains to a still greater extent in Switzerland, with respect to French publications; —a single house is said to have reprinted, during the year 1837, no less than 318,615 volumes. The origin of Lalla Rookh was an application made to the author by Longmans to write for them an Epic poem, in which there should be no allusion to the ancient classic authors, they being responsible for the highest sum ever given for an epic. The negotiator was Mr. Perry, who concluded the business at the agreed sum of three thousand guineas! A National Public Library is about to be established in London, which is to be sustained by public subscription and will receive the duplicate copies of works from the Library of the British Museum, which are very numerous. A paper was recently read before the Royal Society in London, upon a new invention for taking drawings by the Camera Obscura. The operation is said to require great care and precision; the theory seems however to remain at present unexplained. It is called Calotype (Photogenic) drawing. This is somewhat akin to the improvements recently effected in the Daguerreotype process, which we are informed is at length rendered available for transferring likenesses to paper. A new Plane surface Printing Press. This recently invented machine is adapted for all kinds of printing, and may be worked either by hand or steam-power. It is capable of doing the work of two ordinary presses, requiring a superintendant and two boys to lay on and take off the sheets and to lower and raise the tympan. The inking apparatus is very cleverly managed, the distributing rollers having three or four different motions. The table on which the type is placed remaining stationary when in work, has the elasticity of the wooden press, and the use of the tympans enables the workmen to dispense with blankets, so as to produce the finest impression on wood engravings. The advantages of this machine are of course chiefly available when a large number of impressions or unusual despatch is required. It is a curious circumstance, that in the British Museum are now to be found nine thick volumes, entirely composed of title-pages, the collector of which spoiled thousands of volumes to obtain them. Supplementary Catalogue of the New York Society Library. Mr. Forbes the Librarian of this ancient and useful Institution, which has become better known to the public since the erection of its noble edifice in Broadway—has prepared a supplement to his excellent catalogue of the Library, which is arranged on the same lucid plan as the former volume—and shows a very considerable increase of the collection, which now numbers about thirty-five thousand volumes, forming one of the largest and best selected libraries in the United States—and presenting attractions to the scholar and general reader altogether unequalled in the city of New York. The supplement contains a Literary Intelligence. 201 catalogue of the famous old "Winthrop Library"—the collection of the younger Winthrop, the founder of Connecticut, abounding in the most curious works of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and embracing nearly all that has been written on alchemy and natural magic— which appear to have been the favorite studies of the learned possessor.—This collection was presented to the New York Society Library by the descendants of the Winthrops—many of whom are honorably known among us. AMERICAN LITERARY ANNOUNCEMENTS. It is rumored in the literary circles, that a new work on the Antiquities of the Nile may be expected during the ensuing season from the fascinating pen of John L. Stephens, Esq., whose recent volumes on Central America have attracted so large a share of popular attention;—upwards of five thousand copies having already been disposed of, while the demand for the work has been so great as to prevent the Publishers hitherto supplying the Southern and Western markets. (HARPER & BROTHERS, publishers.) Miss Sedgwick's new work, entitled, "Letters from Abroad," from which, through the politeness of the publishers, we gave some delightful extracts in our former Number, will be ready for publication, we understand, about the first of the month. A new historical work, by William H. Prescott, Esq., to be entitled, we believe, "The Kings of Spain," is in the press of Messrs. LITTLE & BROWN of Boston. FRANCIS announces a new work by Prof. Ware, author of "Probus," entitled, "Julian, or Scenes in Judea." Mr. Simms, we hear, has just committed to the press, a new novel, entitled "The Blind Heart." It is written more in the style of Martin Faber than of any other of his novels. It will be out in September. Hoffman is busily engaged upon his new novel, "The Red Spur of Ramapo." It will be published in September. The Life of the late Dr. Fisk, by Prof. Holdrich, is to be published, we understand, during the ensuing month. Sermons and Sketches, by the late Rev. John Summerfield, is also in press by the HARPERS. Among the forthcoming works, we notice that Mr. John Keese of New York, will bring out a second volume of "The Poets of America, illustrated by one of her Painters." Although the Annuals this year are to be unusually expensive and beautiful, we are confident that this will be the most elegant gift-book of the season. The engravers engaged on this volume, are Messrs. Halpin and Jordan of New York, whose beautiful specimens have added such a charm to the various volumes they have illustrated. Messrs. HARPER & BROTHERS also announce History of Duelling, by D. Millingen; Italy and the Italian Islands, by W. Spalding, Esq.; America, Historical, Statistic, and Descriptive, by J.S. Buckingham, Esq.; An Author's Mind, edited by M.F. Tupper, Esq.; the Ancient Regime, by G.P.R. James, Esq. Messrs. APPLETON & Co. announce as in course of publication the following new works,— A splendid Pictorial of the Vicar of Wakefield, 108 engravings, 1 vol., 8mo. Robinson Crusoe, splendidly illustrated by Grandville, 1 vol., 8vo. History of the American Church, by Archdeacon Wilberforce, 1 vol., 16mo. Summer and Winter in the Pyrenees, by Mr. Ellis, Author of "Women of England," &c., 1 vol., 12mo. A Miniature Classical Library, comprising a series of the best works of the most celebrated authors, in 32mo.—The following are nearly ready,— The Token of Affection. The Token of Remembrance. The Token of Friendship. History of Rasselas, by Dr. Johnson. Vicar of Wakefield. Goldsmith's Essays. Elizabeth, or Exiles of Siberia. Pure Gold from the Rivers of Wisdom. Paul and Virginia, &c., &c. Extracts from the Works of Travelers, illustrative of various Passages in the Holy Scriptures, with numerous illustrations. Stewart's Treatise on Stable Economy, 1 vol., with plates. The Selected Beauties of English Poetry, by Thomas Campbell. Christian Meditation, by the author of "Christian Retirement," &c. Graham's History from Scripture, second series. WILEY & PUTNAM of New York, will publish in a few weeks, "The Life of Red Jacket, by Col. Stone," and Col. Trumbull's "Autobiography and Reminiscences of his own Times." These works will both be very valuable. The latter especially will form a beautiful specimen of book-making, and will contain a highly-finished portrait and 20 other engravings, 1 vol., 8vo. They also announce, "The Poultry Yard," by Peter Boswell, and a "Treatise on the Improvement &c. of Sheep," by A. Blacklock. J. & H.G. LANGLEY of New York, are preparing for early publication, a new work on Democracy, designed as a Sequel to the admirable volumes of De Tocqueville. It is entitled, "The Democratic Principle which Governs the American Union, and its Applicability to other States, by G.T. Poussin," and will be translated by Major Davezac. Amenities of Literature, by J. D'Israeli. They have also now ready for publication a beautiful edition of Schlegel's "Lectures on Literature, with an Index and Introductory Preface by the American editor." The translation of this valuable work is attributed to J. G. Lockhart, Esq. 202 Monthly Literary Record. [August, 1841.] The Plain Sermons, by the editors of "The Oxford Tracts for the Times," is also to be published in a few days, in 2 vols , 12mo. A new work by Dr. A. Walker, author of "Intermarriage," entitled, "Physiognomy founded on Physiology," &c., will shortly appear. J. P. GRIFFING, will shortly publish in 1 vol., 190 Rambles and Reveries, by Mr. Tuckerman, of Boston. The Dahlia, or Memorial of Affection, an Annual, for 1842—with Plates. The Value of Time, by Mrs. Barwell, with 8 Cuts. LITTLE & BROWN, of Boston, announce a New Work on Partnership, by Judge Story, and Prof. Greenleaf's New Treatise on Evidence. WILEY & PUTNAM—In Press, third volume of Mrs. Adams Letters. LEA & BLANCHARD, of Philadelphia, announce, among others, the following:— Beauchamp, the Kentucky Tragedy, by the Author of Richard Hurdis. The Siege of Florence, a Romance. Greville, a Novel, by Mrs. Gore. Old St. Paul's, by Ainsworth. Mrs. Marcet's Seasons,—Stories for Young People. Mr. Cooper's New Novel, The Deer Slayer, will be published in the end of the present month. CAREY & HART, Philadelphia, will publish in a few days, Dr. Johnson on Life, Health, and Disease. What to Observe, or the Traveller's Remembrancer, by J. R. Jackson. ________ ENGLISH LITERARY ANNOUNCEMENTS. In consequence of the present political excitement in England, the Literary Announcements of the London publishing houses are comparatively few. Many important works which we hear are in a forward state of preparation for the press, have been for the present delayed. A curious book is on the eve of appearing, entitled Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions, by Mackay, in 2 vols. 8vo. with portraits, &c. Charles O'Malley the Irish Dragoon, is drawing toward its completion. We observe this amusing writer has engaged to commence a new work. Mr. Maxwell, the author of "Stories of Waterloo," has sent to the press a new work, entitled Sketches of a Soldier of Fortune. Isadora or Adventures of a Neapolitan, and Porcelain Tower or Seven Stories of China, are also forthcoming. We observe with pleasure, the announcement of a new work from the laborious and gifted pen of the elder D'Israeli; it is entitled The Amenities of Authors. The Ward of Thorpe Combe, is the title of a new novel by Mrs. Trollope. The Life of Richard Cœur de Leon, by Mr. James, is to form 4 vols. 8vo. two of which will soon be ready for publication. Mariotti's General View of Italy, its History, Literature, &c., in reference to its present state. The Book of Sonnets, exhibiting the various styles of the most celebrated poets, with biographical notices, &c., 1 vol. Italy and the Italian Islands, by W. Spalding, Esq. An Author's Mind, edited by M. F. Tupper, Esq. The Ancient Regime, an Historical Romance, from the prolific pen of G. P. R. James, Esq. A collected and beautifully illustrated edition of Mrs. Sigourney's Poems, 2 vols. Manners and Customs of Society in India, by Mrs. Major Clemons. The Hand Book for India and Egypt,&c. The Fawn of Spring Vale, the Clarionet, and other Tales, by W. Carleton, Esq. Mems. on France, Italy, and Germany, by Edwin Lee, Esq. Tour to the Sepulchres of Ancient Etruria, in 1839, by Mrs. Hamilton Grey. A History of Etruria, by the same author, with illustrations. Dr. Granville's Midland and Southern Spas of England. James Hatfield, and the Beauty of Buttermere illustrated, by Cruikshank. Professor Bertinchamp's New System of Teaching the German Language. Sixteen Years in Chili, Peru, by the retired Governor of Juan Fernandez. Hon. Mrs. Damer's Diary in Greece, Turkey, Egypt, &c. The Tory Baronet, a novel of the times. Sketches of Parties and Sects in County Kerry. Lives of Individuals who have raised themselves from Poverty to Eminence, by Davenport. Lectures on Romanism and Anglo-Catholicism, by Joseph Sortain. Shermer, or the Secrets of Mesmerism, by Miss Romer. Summer Among the Bocages and the Vines, by Miss L. S. Costello. The Old Early and his Young Wife. Sketches in Enis and Tyrawley, by C. O., with Illustrations. Residence on the Shores of the Baltic, by a Lady, with Etchings. 2 vols. Ride through France and Switzerland, by Mr. Holmes. Descriptive Tour in Lombardy, Tyrol, and Bavaria, by James Barron, with plates Restoration of the Jews to their own land, by Rev. E. Beckersteth. A New History of the Jews, by the Rev. J. W. Brooks. Last Words of Our Savior, by Rev. D. K. Drummond. English Women of the Last Century and the Present Day. Memoirs of the Spiritual Labors of the late Mrs. Stevens, by her Sister. Visit to the Indians of Chili, by Capt. Gardiner. 1 vol. Plates. Pastoral Annals, by Rev. J. S. Knox. Memoirs of the Life and Writings of M. T. Sadler, Esq., M. P. Historical Sketches, by Rev. G. Croly. Robert and Frederick—A Boy's Book— with many illustrations. 203 MONTHLY FINANCIAL AND COMMERCIAL ARTICLE. THE past month has been rather barren of incident in the commercial and financial world. We have received advices from England showing the progress of the great events maturing there. Trade, of course, continued inactive, under the influence of political agitation. The market for American securities was as depressed as ever, but the great staple, cotton, had undergone a small advance in price. The effect of the news on this side has not been very apparent; but, united with the failure of a large cotton house, created some distrust in the bill market, which caused the sales to be less than they otherwise would have been, and has induced some small shipments of coin—although by the rates of exchange, 8 1-4 to 8 1-2 premium, it would scarcely yield a profit. The London packet carried out $60,000, and the Havre $50,000, in specie. The stock market has been heavy, and prices are generally lower than at the date of our last. The continued fall of stocks has caused some suspensions among the brokers. Many have stopped who were estimated to be men of property. The State of Indiana has, as we feared, failed to pay her interest; and the coupons due on the 1st July are selling at 20 per cent. discount. Hopes are, however, still entertained that an arrangement may be made to meet the dividend. The State of Pennsylvania has failed on $930,000 of her debt which fell due, after an ineffectual attempt to borrow the money to pay it. An offer was made to the stockholders to renew the stock for the same time and rate of interest. This may be accepted. Moneyed men are looking with much interest to the proceedings at Washington in regard to the bank bill. The probability is that no bill will be passed; or, if there is, it will not be of a character to command the confidence of capitalists. So far, nothing of importance has been matured at Washington. The sub-treasury law has been repealed in the Senate, and the distribution bill has been passed in the House. Neither event has met the approbation of the business portion of the community; and the session, it is generally thought, will be a failure. Part of the State loans authorized last winter for the State works have been taken, to the amount of $310,00, at 84 1-4. During the month the markets have preserved the same general features that were prominent at the date of our last report. The political agitation upon financial and commercial affairs continues to retard any movement toward returning animation. Money is easily obtained of the banks and capitalists, at low rates of interest, on the lodgment of proper securities; but loans are restricted to short business paper. The quantity of this paper upon the market is small, owing to the wholesome change which has of late taken place in the manner of doing business. It is undoubtedly true that the quantity of produce brought to market during the past spring is larger than ever before, and, also, that that produce has brought remunerating prices; and the proceeds, after deducting former debts, have been invested in goods to a fair extent. The rapid settlement of the western States is necessarily developing the resources of the country, and yearly augmenting the amount of produce which seeks the Atlantic States for a market in exchange for imported and manufactured goods. In the years 1835 and 1836 this process was checked, because the laborers were diverted from the field by the phantom of speculation. They became consumers to a greater extent than they were producers; consequently the quantity of commodities going west greatly exceeded that coming east,—giving a fancied prosperity to the merchants and dealers, while the farmers were running in debt. Soon, however, the false capital furnished the merchants by the banks became exhausted. The citizens of the West then found their speculations air-built castles, and themselves in debt to the East. They then turned their atten- 204 Monthly Financial and Commercial Article. [August, 1841.] tion to the sober business of life; and, with the increasing productions, the current began to set the other way. During the past two years, the western States have poured out their overflowing wealth through the lake ports in amazing abundance. This has sought markets in all directions; and the Erie canal has, in its increased tolls, been the sure index of the destination of a great part of it. The statistics of the Ohio canal, at Cleveland, where four-fifths of the productions of Ohio are shipped, may be taken as a criterion of the progress of the western trade. This was, for the year ending January 1, 1841, as compared with the year ending January 1, 1840, as follows: Property on which toll is charged by weight arrived at, and cleared from, Cleveland, in the years 1839 and 1840. Arrived per canal. Cleared per canal. 1840.........280,233,820 lbs...........................42,772,233 lbs. 1839.........186,116,267 lbs...........................64,342,361 lbs. Increase.....94,117,553 Decrease....21,570,128 In this we find that the produce arrived at Cleveland from the interior was, in 1840, greatly in excess, while the merchandise that was shipped inland greatly decreased. 1839 was a year of bank expansion, and ended in the final failure of the banks of the South. The principal articles of produce of which this increase consists, are as follows: Principal products arrived at Cleveland in four years. 1837. 1838. 1839. 1840. Wheat-bushels.............548,697..............1,229,002........1,520,477.........2,151,450 Flour-barrels.................207,592..................287,465............266,327............504,900 Butter-lbs.......................773,642..................606,844............119,727............782,033 Iron-pigs.....................1,017,847...............1,000,784............768,300........1,154,641 Nails..................................................................................................48,659........2,252,491 This is an immense increase, and, it will be seen, was a little retarded by the inflation of 1839. It exhibits the business up to the close of last year; and, notwithstanding that the receipts were then so heavy, the business of this spring, since the opening of navigation, has been much greater than in that year. The following is a comparative table of the business of the port of Cleveland, Ohio, for the month of June: Trade of the port of Cleveland, Ohio, for June 1840, and 1841. Exports. 1840. 1841. Decrease. Increase. Flour-barrels..............72,126............85,523.................——....................13,398 Pork-barrels..................4,712..............5,315..................—— .....................603 Wheat-bushels........294,137........242,194.................51,943 Vessels entered...............177.................230..................—— .....................57 Vessels cleared................217.................250..................—— .....................33 All the lake ports show a corresponding increase in business. A large portion of it—nearly 50 per cent.—goes to Canada. A greatly augmented volume has, however, sought the Erie canal for an outlet. The tolls received to the 1st of July indicate the increase as follows: Tolls received on the New York canals to the 1st of July, for four years. 1838..........$516,841 1840..........$555,012 1839........... 616,935 1841.......... 699,270 These data show conclusively that the actual wealth of the country has, during the past four years, been steadily augmenting, until, at this period, it is vastly greater than ever before. The excess of business which in former years flowed toward the West from the East, was based on a fictitious capital, which was inevitably exhausted in time, and produced convulsion and ruin. The excess of business which is now setting from the West to the East, is based upon the inexhaustible capital of a most prolific soil, and constantly increasing population and industry. The return trade must necessarily be dependent upon the means of purchasing. That means exists in the proceeds of the produce, after former debts have been discharged. The excess of produce brought to market during the past year has been applied to this latter purpose. As far as debts Monthly Financial and Commercial Article. 205 have been due from solvent business men, they have been discharged. A large amount of unliquidated claims is undoubtedly outstanding from insolvent speculators and suspended banks, but nothing but a bankrupt law will settle those claims. The same process has been gone through in regard to our foreign debt. In 1840, the excess of exports over imports was $26,000,000. This, with freight and profits, would make near $40,000,000 of foreign commercial debt discharged. The articles which compose that excess of exports will be seen in the following table of the heads of domestic exports taken from the yet unpublished Treasury Report of 1840: Exports of domestic produce from the United States for 1839 and 1840. Exports. 1839. 1840. Decrease. Increase. Products of the sea..........$1,917,469........$3,198,379.............. ——.................$1,281,410 Do forest.................................5,764,559...........5,321,085..........$443,474 Do animals.............................2,584,011...........3,206,034...............——......................622,023 Vegetable food..................11,004,855.........15,587,657..............——...................4,583,102 Tobacco...................................9,832,866...........9,883,957...............——........................51,091 Cotton....................................61,238,892........63,870,307...............——..................2,631,415 Other products.........................263,043..............177,784..............85,259 Manufactures.........................6,752,518...........7,569,528..............——......................817,010 This table presents the same features as do those of the inland trade. The principal increase is in vegetable food—owing to the low prices resulting from the large crops and the predominance of the specie currency of New York. The process here indicated, is that of settling up old debts, at home and abroad, and of the exercise of economy in making purchases for consumption. This has brought about the state in which we now find the money market. New York had, in 1836, become exhausted of its capital, which was trusted out all over the Union. She was consequently unable to pay her foreign debts, and suspended. In the following year she recovered herself, and paid her foreign debts. The policy of the U.S. Bank, and of the South generally, has been to keep back the debts due New York from those sections, by suspending their payments. The currents of business cannot, however, be checked by the artificial movements of banking institutions, and the business debts due New York have been gradually settled. The sums thus paid in have accumulated in the hands of capitalists for many reasons. The regular merchants, finding that the demand for imported goods and manufactures was small, curtailed their operations, and thereby lessened the call for money in the legitimate channels of business. The explosion of the banks, and the loss of credit on the part of the States, destroyed the confidence of capitalists in stocks, as a means of investment. The two great channels for the employment of money were thus cut off for the present. Thus far the operation is natural; and, if uninterfered with, will result in an increased demand for goods from the interior, corresponding with the increasing surplus of produce, which, under the stable currency afforded by the sub-treasury plan of the late Government, would be steady and large. Under the old system, the dealers from all sections of the Union came here, and made their purchases by giving their notes payable in four to nine months at the banks at home—the exchange at the risk of the seller. These notes were then readily available to the merchants; and in 1839, when the Southern banks resumed, confidence was felt, to a great extent, in the permanency of specie payments. Our merchants consequently sold freely for Southern paper, and the imports ran up nearly as high as in 1836. In October, 1839, the Southern banks again failed, and the North sustained a loss of 10 to 15 per cent. in the depreciation of the Southern paper in which their notes fell due. The course of business is now altered. The receipts of produce from the interior exceed the inward shipments of merchandise; and the dealers, in coming forward to make their purchases, bring bills drawn against produce already in the market, which are therefore cash. With these their accounts are settled, without the creation of 206 Monthly Financial and Commercial Article. [August, 1841.] the usual amount of business paper. The purchases are made cheaply, to the extent of the means of payment, and the sales are safe and profitable. Among mercantile men generally, we find very little dissatisfaction at the character of the business which has been done during the past spring. The amount of business, say they, has been less than in some former years, but expenses are much less, rents are at least 20 per cent. lower, goods are lower, and but few bad debts are contracted. The design of a national bank is to break up this system, which is the result of the assimilation of trade to the policy of the late Administration, and to restore the old order of things, and increase sales by again trusting to the stability and honesty of those Southern banks that have so often robbed the Northern dealers by their repeated suspensions. The stock market presents, however, an entirely different view. There we find the business next to nothing. Prices have been steadily falling for many months. State, bank, and company stocks have all gone down; and the transactions, which once were sufficient in New York to give employment to a board of eighty brokers and upward, are now dwindled to very unimportant amounts. The original cause for this undoubtedly is an over-supply of all descriptions. Banking capital became redundant first, and that redundancy was the cause of the over-creation of all other stocks, and also of those speculative debts to which we have above alluded as awaiting the action of a bankrupt law to extinguish them. Of these debts a large proportion of the banks assets consist; and in them their capital stocks have been sunk to a great degree. The prices fall, therefore, very low, without eliciting any disposition to invest. The U.S. Bank is the chief of this class, and its stock has fallen from 123, in January 1839, to 18 1-2, its present price. Almost all other stocks have fallen in similar proportion. Railroad and canal companies are, most of them, so overburdened with debt that they are unable to make dividends now, and, for the majority, there is no prospect that they will soon be able to do so. The immediate causes of the stoppage in 1839, and the subsequent depreciation of all stocks, were the over-supply of State stocks; and the fact that the States, many of them, having no funds set apart to pay interest, were in the habit of borrowing to do so, united with the revulsion in England growing out of a deficient harvest. These, combined, ruined the market for stocks, and caused a fall in their values. This fall deprived a large number of banks and companies of their available means, and consequently affected their own stocks. A general depreciation was the result. The States being no longer able to meet their interest by borrowing, the question of taxation was involved, and it has in some cases been resorted to—too late, however, to save some of the States from failure. The remedy that was proposed by the London house of Baring, Brothers, & Co., of those most interested in raising the market value of the stocks, was a combination of the states in some general plan that would give a kind of guaranty of the Federal Government for the payment of the interest. This has been adopted by the House of Representatives, in the shape of the bill for the distribution of the proceeds of the public lands among the States. This has been looked for as a measure of great relief, by those who are suffering under the effects of the depreciation. As a mere matter of pecuniary relief to the insolvent States, it will prove, however, a great disappointment. The highest estimate of the net yearly income from the lands has been $3,000,000. This the bill proposes to distribute among the States according to their federal representation. There are 242 representatives; consequently each member would entitle the State to about $12,392. The following table will show the number of members to each State according to the representation of the 26th Congress, the annual interest due by each, and the sum it will receive under the Distribution bill: Monthly Financial and Commercial Article. 207 Interest paid by each State annually, number of Representatives from each State and the sum each will receive under the Distribution Bill. Annual No. of Reps Ratio of Interests. Lands Vermont..........................none.....................5.......................$61,910 Maine..............................$99,000................8..........................99,136 N. Hampshire................none.....................5.........................61,910 Massachusetts..............257,500.............12.......................148,704 Rhode Island.................none ....................2.........................24,784 Connecticut...................none.....................6..........................74,352 New York........................1,158,050...........40.......................495,680 Pennsylvania.................1,800,000...........28......................356,976 New Jersey.................... none ....................6.........................74,352 Delaware.........................none ....................1.........................12,392 Maryland........................767,300.................8.........................99,136 Virginia...........................342,850...............21.......................260,232 N. Carolina....................none.....................13.......................161,096 $ 4,404,700 155 1,930,660 Annual No. of Reps. Ratio of Interests Lands. S. Carolina............$187,678.................9..........................$111,428 Georgia.......................37,500................9.............................111,428 Alabama...................600,300................5...............................61,910 Louisiana..................986.750................3...............................37,176 Mississippi...............375,000................2...............................24,784 Tennesee.....................89,455..............13............................161,096 Kentucky...................211,180..............13............................161,096 Ohio............................823,485..............19............................235,448 Indiana ......................750,000................7..............................86,744 Michigan....................337,150...............1...............................12,392 Illinois..........................735,600...............3...............................37,176 Missouri........................95,520...............2...............................24,784 Arkansas.....................160,560...............1...............................12,392 5,390,178 87 1,077,454 4,404,700 155 1,930,660 Total........................$9,794,878...........242......................$3,008,114 Florida has a debt of $3,500,000, the interest on a part of which she has failed to meet; but, not being a State, will not be entitled to receive any of the proceeds of the lands. This gives us at a glance the operation of the bill, confined only to its character of a relief measure to the indebted States. It will add means to those States that have already a sufficiency, but will be of little service to those which, like Maryland and Illinois, are heavily in debt. This view of the effect of the distribution has prevented the probability that the bill will speedily become a law from having any influence upon the values of the stocks. It will probably stimulate borrowing on the part of those States which are in want of money to complete their public works and to meet some of the principals that have fallen due. This is the case with Mississippi and Pennsylvania, each of which has failed on a portion of its debt. In the latter State offers have been made by the Executive to renew the stock, but no arrangement has yet been completed. The already large supply of stocks will therefore be increased. While this is the state of affairs on this side of the water, the foreign market has not become any more favorable to the negotiation of stocks. On the contrary, it has assumed a worse character. Up to this day England has not recovered from the convulsion caused by the failure of the crop of 1839. The £7,000,000 to £8,000,000 of gold coin, that then sought the continent in the payment of corn, has not as formerly returned for the purchase of the manufactures of England. On the contrary, it has been applied to the stimulation of the manufactures of the continent, which now so successfully rival those of Great Britain, that the manufacturers themselves have petitioned for a removal of all protective duties, in order that cheaper bread and labor may enable them to retain their markets. The immense change that will be the result of this movement has caused banks and capitalists to concentrate their resources and prepare for the worst. At the same moment all the nations of Europe are about largely to increase their loans. The revenue of Great Britain is short; and there are increased war expenses, which must be met by borrowing. The same causes have brought all the nations of Europe into the market, and the late war fever is the excuse for universal borrowing. The French loan is $90,000,000; the Austrian loan is reported at $175,000,000; Texas, $5,000,000; Great Britain, $25,000,000;—and other proposed loans, combined, make an aggregate of $320,000,000 that are now offered, independent of the United States. The loan bills before Congress now are, for revenue purposes, $12,000,000, and for a bank, $10,000,000: making, altogether, $342,000,000. This forms a heavier pressure upon the market than it has experienced since the French war. After the peace in 1817— 208 Monthly Financial and Commercial Article. [August. The debt of Great Britain was .................£840,850,493 The debt of the United States was ...................... 25,000,000——£865,850,493 From that period up to 1836, there was paid off as follows: By the English Government......................£53,000,000 By the United States......................25,000,000——£78,000,000 While this amount was coming upon the markets yearly, to seek new channels of investment, the Governments of Europe and South America were constantly borrowing; and from 1818 to 1838, the following loans were contracted in London: Foreign loans contracted in England. Name of loan. Contractors. Year. Rate of interest. Rate of issue. Am't of loan. Austrian...........Rothschild...............1823.........5 per cent.........82 .........£2,500,000 Belgian.............Rothschild...............1822.........5 per cent.........75 ......... 3,000,000 Brazilian...........Wilson & Co..........1824.........5 per cent.........75 .......... 3,200,000 Brazilian...........Rothschild...............1825.........5 per cent.........85........... 2,000,000 Brazilian...Rothschild & Wilson...1829.........5 per cent.........—............... 800,000 Buenos Ayres....Barings..................1824.........6 per cent.........85 .......... 1,000,000 Chili.......................Hallett...................1822.........6 per cent.........70 .......... 1,000,000 Colombian..........Herring & Co.....1822.........6 per cent.........84............ 2,000,000 Colombian..........Goldschmidt ......1824........6 per cent.......88 1/2...... 4,750,000 Danish .................Wilson ..................1825........3 per cent.........75............ 5,500,000 Greek....................Ricardos................1825........5 per cent.......56 1/2...... 2,000,000 Greek....................Loughman............1824........5 per cent.........59............... 800,000 Guatemala..........Powles....................1825........6 per cent.........73 .......... 1,428,571 Guadelquiver.....Ellward...................1825........5 per cent.........60............... 600,000 Mexican...............Goldschmidt........1824........5 per cent.........58............ 3,200,000 Mexican...............Barclay...................1825........6 per cent..........89 3/4.... 3,200,000 Neapolitan.........Rothschild.............1824........5 per cent.........92 1/2..... 2,500,000 Russian................Rothschild.............1818........5 per cent.........72 ............ 5,000,000 Russian................Rothschild.............1822........5 per cent.........84............. 3,500,000 Portuguese........Goldschmidt.........1823........5 per cent.........87............. 1,500,000 Peruvian.........Keys & Chapman.....1822........6 per cent ........88 ............. 850,000 Paruvian.........Keys & Chapman.....1824........6 per cent.........82 .............. 750,000 Peruvian.........Keys & Chapman.....1825........6 per cent.........78 .............. 616,000 Russian.................Rothschild ............1822........5 per cent.........82........... 3,500,000 Spanish................Haldimanes...........1821........5 per cent........56 ........... 1,500,000 Spanish...........Campbell & Co.........1823........5 per cent.......30 1/4 .....1,500,000 Other loans........various firms....to 1838.....4 to 5 per cent...— .........10,000,000 Several U. States...various firms...to 1839...5 to 6 per cent...80 to par...30,000,000 Total loans...............................................................................................................96,794,571 This, it will be seen, is but £19,000,000 in excess of the sum thrown upon the market during that period. The English and American Governments were rapidly getting out of debt, and the money they paid out was taken up by other Powers. The situation of affairs now is entirely different. The Government of Great Britain has been for the last few years a borrower; and the Powers of the world are coming forward in one year—including the United States, which is about to make common cause with the bankrupt Powers of Europe—for a sum equal to four-fifths of all that was borrowed in twenty years, from 1818 to 1838. This whole sum, if procured, must be taken from channels in which it is now employed—which are either commercial or manufacturing. The consequence must be a great rise in the interest of money; or, which is the same thing, a fall in the prices of stocks. Under these circumstances, it is scarcely probable that the United States national 5 per cent. stock can be negotiated at par—leaving out of view entirely the stocks of the several States. In this view, which the present aspect of affairs in Europe presents, the prospect for a speedy rise in the price of our State stocks is not very flattering. There is another consideration which in some degree may favor the expectation of an improvement in stocks: that is, the results of the present corn-law agitation in England. Should it be carried out, it may produce so great changes as to create a distrust among holders of Government stock, and induce them to invest in those of the United States. To this, however, the discredit which attaches to many of our States may be a bar. In looking at the over-taxed and debt-covered states of Europe, the mind becomes convinced that the only true course for the United States is to get clear of its debts, and its connection with the paper system, and reposing on the industry and economy of its citizens to await the storm which seems about to burst on the old world. GENERAL AND TRAVELLING AGENTS. MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE, VERMONT, AND MASSACHUSETTS, SAXTON & PIERCE, 133 1/2 WASHINGTON STREET, BOSTON. RHODE ISLAND - - - - - - - - - - - - - - B. CRANSTON, PROVIDENCE. NEW YORK STATE - - - - - - - - - - - - - JACOB J. LINTS, NEW YORK CITY. NEW YORK CITY, AND LONG ISLAND E. B. FELLOWS, NEW YORK CITY. VIRGINIA - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - R. NORTHINGTON, NORFOLK. SOUTHERN STATES - - - - - - - - - - - - GEORGE OATES, CHARLESTON, S. C. ACTIVE AGENTS WANTED IN THE DIFFERENT STATES THROUGHOUT THE UNION. ADDRESS THE PUBLISHERS, POST PAID, NEW YORK. 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JUST PUBLISHED, UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF CONGRESS, THE MADISON PAPERS. - DEBATES IN THE CONGRESS OF THE FEDERATION, AS TAKEN IN THE YEAR 1782, 1783, AND 1787, BY JAMES MADISON, THEN A MEMBER; WITH LETTERS AND EXTRACTS OF LETTERS FROM HIM DURING THE PERIODS OF HIS SERVICE IN THAT CONGRESS, AND DEBATES IN THE FEDERAL CONVENTION OF 1787. BY JAMES MADISON, A MEMBER. - The arrangements for the publication of the Second Edition of the Madison Papers being now complete, this important work is ready for delivery. It makes three volumes of above two thousand pages in all, instead of two, as was announced when the prospectus was first issued, and will be furnished at the following prices:- Full bound in embossed muslin . . . . . . . $ 8 50 Full bound in sheep . . . . . . . . . 9 00 Full bound in calf . . . . . . . . . . 10 00 Full bound in calf extra, or morocco . . . . . . . 10 50 FAC SIMILES of the original manuscripts have been engraved, and will accompany the third volume, as follows:- I. The Declaration of Independence, as furnished by Jefferson to Mr. Madison, is the handwriting of the former, and making thirteen pages of small foolscalp, Svo. This is remarkable as being the only copy of the Declaration known, fairly written out by its author, and forms a valuable pendant to the fac simile of the original rough draft accompanying Randolph's edition of Jefferson's Writings. II. A page from one of the note books in which Mr. Madison recorded his minutes of debates in the Congress of the Confederation. III. The last page of the notes of debates in the Convention, containing the anecdote respecting Franklin ; and an interesting momorandum added by Mr. Madison, toward the close of his life, before sealing up the manuscripts. IV. The Signature to the Constitution, copied from the original in the Department of State by special orders from the Joint Library Committee, and now published for the first time ; in all twenty-four plates of fac similes. J. & H. G. LANGLEY, PUBLISHERS, CHATHAM STREET, NEW YORK. TRAVELLING AGENTS WANTED ; A LIBERAL DISCOUNT ALLOWED. Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.