Original and selected articles are before us in such profusion, as we open this wonderfully capacious receptacle of scraps and MSS., that the difficulty will be to stop when we once begin arranging this mosaic of literature. However, we have the year before us, and every month will require its pictures and precepts. Here are a few.
Mystery.—In the beauty of form, or of moral character, or of the material creation, it is that which is most veiled which is most beautiful. Valleys are the mysteries of landscapes.—Lamartine.
Unjust Acquisition.—What do we mean by unjust acquisition? It is not to be measured by its extent, but by its principle. Unjust acquisition is to take what is not your own; and who does that more than one of those poor gin drinkers, who has sold his morsel of bread to buy his own destruction, and then thinks another ought to be forced to replace it?—Mrs. Marsh.
Eclectics.—Eclectics, in philosophy, are for the most partles demi-esprits, who are incapable of viewing facts in their wholeness; just as the eclectics in politics are they who want the honesty to be quite pure, and the courage to be quite rogues. Such persons make systems from inconsistent scraps, taken from discordant philosophy, with the same taste as the architects of the Middle Ages erected barbarous edifices with the beautiful fragments of antiquity.—Lady Morgan.
Conversation.—There is scarcely any source of enjoyment more immediately connected at once with the heart and with the mind, than that of listening to a sensible and amiable woman when she converses in a melodious and well-regulated voice, when her language and pronunciation are easy and correct, and when she knows how to adapt her conversation to the characters and habits of those around her.—Mrs. Ellis.
Dreams of Youth.—Clouds weave the summer into the season of autumn; and youth rises from dashed hopes into the stature of a man.
Well, it is even so, that the passionate dreams of youth break up and wither. Vanity becomes tempered with wholesome pride, and passion yields to the riper judgment of manhood; even as the August heats pass on and over into the genial glow of a September sun. There is a strong growth in the struggles against mortified pride; and then only does the youth get an ennobling consciousness of that manhood which is dawning in him, when he has fairly surmounted those puny vexations which a wounded vanity creates.
But God manages the seasons better than we; and in a day, or an hour perhaps, the cloud will pass, and the heavens glow again upon our ungrateful heads.—Ik Marvel.
Right Preparation for Marriage.—We are thoroughly acquainted with each other's character, tastes, and habits; and both of us believe there is a singular, even an extraordinary degree of mutual adaptation in all our views, feelings, and wishes. Perhaps I might have mentioned that my dear friend is about six years younger than myself. Two months hence I shall be thirty-seven years of age. Our acquaintance has now been as much as seven years, and our avowed engagement about five. I regret that the union has been unavoidably deferred to so advanced a period of life; but I never wish I had been married very young. I do feel grateful to Heaven for the combination of valuable gifts I hope for in my beloved. Her conscience, intellect, and tenderness are the chief. In her society and co-operation, I do indulge a sanguine hope of improving in every respect, by a more quiet and pleasing manner than I have done in a given space during all these past years of gloomy solitude.—John Foster.
We will now give an original poem, fresh from the pen of one whom, from the lack, probably, of a "right preparation for marriage," does not seem to find her home—what it should be—the place of improvement as well as happiness. She shall have free space for her experiences. We hope her warnings may be heeded by all young lady teachers, and that they will not leave a sphere where they are contentedly useful even to be married, until sure, as good John Foster was, that there is a "mutual adaptation" in the connection.
THE SCHOOL-MISTRESS MARRIED.
Oh, formylittle school-room,mygreen benches,mytwocrackedbricks!!!
Now, girls, accept of a little advice,"Experience teaches one how to be wise."A year or two since, I would fall in love;Of all men created, below or above,There was never another.A mansoendowed with every perfection,That even mamma no sort of objectionCould find to my lover.We married, the horror of all to endure!Somewhat of a hubbub was kicked up, be sure;There was cake to be cut and evenly lie,And white satin ribbon in bow knots to tie,And notes to be written.And dresses sent out and brought home,And callers unwelcome would come,And sit, and keep sitting.The groom was, asusual, a littletoo late—Procrastination, ofallthings, I hate!—His cravat,then, was tied in a great crooked bow.Our trunks must be packed, all ready to go—I was no more a teacher.Then, when in the cab, atlast, ready were seated,Lo! some one behind ran crying, o'erheated,"You've not paid the preacher!"Perplexities numberless, little and large,Will crowd to o'erwhelm you with powerful surge;Still, consider themnaught, to a year and a day,When you trit-trot thebaby!There's a concert perhaps, or some favorite play,Or a party, where all your old playmates are gay;"But, my dear, 'bout YOUR baby!"Now, wifey, you know it to be impoliteThat you and I,both, the invite should slight.Alas! I'm a martyr to etiquette, though;Pet musthave vision enough toseeso.Don't wait for me, pray.You know, love, how swiftly short hours pursue;So sleep on quite comfortably, darling, pray do,I'm homebefore day."Now, girls, thesefaintfacts in time you may know,And moan that in youth you did not bestowMore note on these lines, in sympathy pennedTo advise you; and oh, you will need a friend!For Iknowyouwillmarry.In confidence, listen: To market ne'er go,For of all thesmallchange an account you will owe;And you'ddie, if you knew what a bother to doThere'll be with your "Harry.""Now always it has been a case of concernWhat daily you do with the money I earn;I reg'larly give you ten dollars a week,Andoncein awhilea dollar to keepFor baby and you.Why,Inever spend over a dollar for brandy,Or little five franc for cigars orspicecandy—Withallthe week's money pray what doyoudo?"Lily.
Now, girls, accept of a little advice,"Experience teaches one how to be wise."A year or two since, I would fall in love;Of all men created, below or above,There was never another.A mansoendowed with every perfection,That even mamma no sort of objectionCould find to my lover.We married, the horror of all to endure!Somewhat of a hubbub was kicked up, be sure;There was cake to be cut and evenly lie,And white satin ribbon in bow knots to tie,And notes to be written.And dresses sent out and brought home,And callers unwelcome would come,And sit, and keep sitting.The groom was, asusual, a littletoo late—Procrastination, ofallthings, I hate!—His cravat,then, was tied in a great crooked bow.Our trunks must be packed, all ready to go—I was no more a teacher.Then, when in the cab, atlast, ready were seated,Lo! some one behind ran crying, o'erheated,"You've not paid the preacher!"Perplexities numberless, little and large,Will crowd to o'erwhelm you with powerful surge;Still, consider themnaught, to a year and a day,When you trit-trot thebaby!There's a concert perhaps, or some favorite play,Or a party, where all your old playmates are gay;"But, my dear, 'bout YOUR baby!"Now, wifey, you know it to be impoliteThat you and I,both, the invite should slight.Alas! I'm a martyr to etiquette, though;Pet musthave vision enough toseeso.Don't wait for me, pray.You know, love, how swiftly short hours pursue;So sleep on quite comfortably, darling, pray do,I'm homebefore day."Now, girls, thesefaintfacts in time you may know,And moan that in youth you did not bestowMore note on these lines, in sympathy pennedTo advise you; and oh, you will need a friend!For Iknowyouwillmarry.In confidence, listen: To market ne'er go,For of all thesmallchange an account you will owe;And you'ddie, if you knew what a bother to doThere'll be with your "Harry.""Now always it has been a case of concernWhat daily you do with the money I earn;I reg'larly give you ten dollars a week,Andoncein awhilea dollar to keepFor baby and you.Why,Inever spend over a dollar for brandy,Or little five franc for cigars orspicecandy—Withallthe week's money pray what doyoudo?"Lily.
Now, girls, accept of a little advice,"Experience teaches one how to be wise."A year or two since, I would fall in love;Of all men created, below or above,There was never another.A mansoendowed with every perfection,That even mamma no sort of objectionCould find to my lover.
Now, girls, accept of a little advice,
"Experience teaches one how to be wise."
A year or two since, I would fall in love;
Of all men created, below or above,
There was never another.
A mansoendowed with every perfection,
That even mamma no sort of objection
Could find to my lover.
We married, the horror of all to endure!Somewhat of a hubbub was kicked up, be sure;There was cake to be cut and evenly lie,And white satin ribbon in bow knots to tie,And notes to be written.And dresses sent out and brought home,And callers unwelcome would come,And sit, and keep sitting.
We married, the horror of all to endure!
Somewhat of a hubbub was kicked up, be sure;
There was cake to be cut and evenly lie,
And white satin ribbon in bow knots to tie,
And notes to be written.
And dresses sent out and brought home,
And callers unwelcome would come,
And sit, and keep sitting.
The groom was, asusual, a littletoo late—Procrastination, ofallthings, I hate!—His cravat,then, was tied in a great crooked bow.Our trunks must be packed, all ready to go—I was no more a teacher.Then, when in the cab, atlast, ready were seated,Lo! some one behind ran crying, o'erheated,"You've not paid the preacher!"
The groom was, asusual, a littletoo late—
Procrastination, ofallthings, I hate!—
His cravat,then, was tied in a great crooked bow.
Our trunks must be packed, all ready to go—
I was no more a teacher.
Then, when in the cab, atlast, ready were seated,
Lo! some one behind ran crying, o'erheated,
"You've not paid the preacher!"
Perplexities numberless, little and large,Will crowd to o'erwhelm you with powerful surge;Still, consider themnaught, to a year and a day,When you trit-trot thebaby!There's a concert perhaps, or some favorite play,Or a party, where all your old playmates are gay;"But, my dear, 'bout YOUR baby!
Perplexities numberless, little and large,
Will crowd to o'erwhelm you with powerful surge;
Still, consider themnaught, to a year and a day,
When you trit-trot thebaby!
There's a concert perhaps, or some favorite play,
Or a party, where all your old playmates are gay;
"But, my dear, 'bout YOUR baby!
"Now, wifey, you know it to be impoliteThat you and I,both, the invite should slight.Alas! I'm a martyr to etiquette, though;Pet musthave vision enough toseeso.Don't wait for me, pray.You know, love, how swiftly short hours pursue;So sleep on quite comfortably, darling, pray do,I'm homebefore day."
"Now, wifey, you know it to be impolite
That you and I,both, the invite should slight.
Alas! I'm a martyr to etiquette, though;
Pet musthave vision enough toseeso.
Don't wait for me, pray.
You know, love, how swiftly short hours pursue;
So sleep on quite comfortably, darling, pray do,
I'm homebefore day."
Now, girls, thesefaintfacts in time you may know,And moan that in youth you did not bestowMore note on these lines, in sympathy pennedTo advise you; and oh, you will need a friend!For Iknowyouwillmarry.In confidence, listen: To market ne'er go,For of all thesmallchange an account you will owe;And you'ddie, if you knew what a bother to doThere'll be with your "Harry."
Now, girls, thesefaintfacts in time you may know,
And moan that in youth you did not bestow
More note on these lines, in sympathy penned
To advise you; and oh, you will need a friend!
For Iknowyouwillmarry.
In confidence, listen: To market ne'er go,
For of all thesmallchange an account you will owe;
And you'ddie, if you knew what a bother to do
There'll be with your "Harry."
"Now always it has been a case of concernWhat daily you do with the money I earn;I reg'larly give you ten dollars a week,Andoncein awhilea dollar to keepFor baby and you.Why,Inever spend over a dollar for brandy,Or little five franc for cigars orspicecandy—Withallthe week's money pray what doyoudo?"
"Now always it has been a case of concern
What daily you do with the money I earn;
I reg'larly give you ten dollars a week,
Andoncein awhilea dollar to keep
For baby and you.
Why,Inever spend over a dollar for brandy,
Or little five franc for cigars orspicecandy—
Withallthe week's money pray what doyoudo?"
Lily.
Lily.
To Correspondents.—The following articles are accepted, and will appear as soon as we have room: "The Interview," "Blessington's Choice," "The Last Night of Caulaincourt," "Twilight," "O'er bleak Acadia's Plains," "To O. L. H.," "There's Music," "Eventide," "Stanzas," "The Last Moments," "To a Coquette," "The Pet," and "To the Ladies' Friend, Mr. Godey." Several other articles are under consideration.
"The Fall of the Leaf," and "Autumn and its Memories." Will our correspondents please remember that we have to prepare our "Book" for each month at least two months previous to its date? Both the above articles are accepted; but we cannot publish them before March, when it will be the spring and not fall of the year.
The following manuscripts are declined: "Stanzas," "Elfie St. Claire," "To a Departed Sister," "Absence is no Cure for Pure Love," "The Last Indian," "Autumn Leaves" (this poem, intended for October, did not reach us till November, so was out of season), "The New Year, 1854" (these "Lines" are not exactly suited to our "Book." The writer's youth affords hope of improvement. The annuals for this season are all out), "Hatred," "The Mistake," "Singing Schools," "Absence," "Pride," and "A Fragment."
Books by Mail.—Now that the postage on printed matter is so low, we offer our services to procure for our subscribers or others any of the books that we notice. Information touching books will be cheerfully given by inclosing a stamp to pay return postage.
FromE. H. Butler & Co., Philadelphia:—
THE BOW IN THE CLOUD;or, Covenant of Mercy for the Afflicted, is the appropriate title of a work which can hardly fail of a welcome to the homes and hearts of the sorrowful. It is divided into five portions, viz., "Affliction," "Resignation," "Comfort," "Leaning on the Cloud," and "The Sleep in Jesus," each of which is most skilfully and tenderly brought to bear on the particular kind of affliction under which the burdened soul may complain. The articles, original and selected, are chosen and prepared with great care, and the pious and eminent writers who have contributed to this volume insure its excellence. It is beautifully printed and illustrated; no other work of the kind within our knowledge unites such various merits.
THE WHITE VEIL:a Bridal Gift. By Mrs. Sarah Josepha Hale. This book is beautifully got up, the publisher sparing no expense that could add to its embellishment. The contents are varied, comprising choice articles from eminent authors, and the sentiments of the wise and good of every age respecting marriage and conjugal love. We hope it will be the favorite gift-book of the season, and be always among the bride's treasures. pp. 324.
THE AMERICAN STATESMAN;or, Illustrations of the Life and Character of Daniel Webster. Designed for American youth. By Joseph Banvard. There have been such a variety of publications relating to Daniel Webster since his decease, that there hardly seemed room for another. But this neat-looking and well printed volume will be a welcome gift to the young American. There is room for this book, and a welcome, too.
FromHarper & Brothers, New York, throughLindsay & Blakiston, Philadelphia:—
THE HOMES OF THE NEW WORLD, &c. By Frederika Bremer. Translated by Mary Howitt. This work, hurriedly written during Miss Bremer's travels through our country, is a compound of journal and letters to her sister and friends in Sweden. It possesses much interest, but needed revision and condensation to make it what it should have been from its popular author. The letter to the Queen of Denmark will be read with deep interest. It is a synopsis of the opinions expressed throughout the book, which, on the whole, are favorable, and in a better spirit than English tourists have ever exhibited. We shall refer to the work again.
LOUIS XVII.His Life—his Sufferings—his Death. The Captivity of the Royal Family in the Temple.By A. DeBeauchesne. Translated and edited by W. Hazlitt, Esq. Embellished with vignettes, autographs, and plans. Great care appears to have been taken to sustain the horrible events recorded in this volume, by the production of witnesses living at the time the work was written, and by the production of documents, the authenticity of which seems unquestionable. After this, we think that the Rev. Mr. Williams, and his credulous friends, will feel it to be their duty to postpone indefinitely their claims upon the throne of France. We hope the reverend gentleman, forgetting what appeared to be his high dignity and destiny, will throw himself at the feet of his poor Indian mother and acknowledge his undutifulness, and the scandal he has given by his vain attempts to repudiate her maternal authority.
LADY LEE'S WIDOWHOOD. From "Blackwood's Magazine." A cheap edition of a very delightful story, with which many of our readers have, no doubt, already formed some acquaintance.
THE YOUNG MAN'S INSTITUTE. We have here the Third Report of the Board of Trustees, and great progress seems to have been made. One question that occurred to us we could not solve by this report. Lectures are instituted. Are women permitted to attend? And can women have access to the libraries?
MORRIS'S POETICAL WORKS. We have had the pleasure to receive, with the "kind respects of the author," a copy of the beautiful edition of his poems recently published by Charles Scribner, New York; splendid, indeed, in paper, in printing, in its engravings and binding, but more admirable on account of its literary merits and its poetical gems, in which are chastely blended the most attractive sentiments of love, friendship, honor, and patriotism, enlivened here and there with a dash of wit, humor, or wholesome satire. As a song-writer, Mr. Morris has but few competitors in this or any other country. He possesses a peculiar faculty for expressing in heart-thrilling versification those domestic and national feelings which are common to every race and kindred of the civilized world. His productions, therefore, in that line of poetry, have attained a popularity as warm as it is general among all who speak the English language. They have also been translated into several languages of the European continent, and have thus not only spread far and wide the reputation of the author, but have contributed to perpetuate the fame of our country, and to extend the free spirit of our people, and a knowledge of the liberality of our institutions to the remotest nations. If it is true that the songs of a people form a prominent and reliable feature in their history, then may it be as truly said that our friend Morris has done his share in promoting the ends which all historians must necessarily keep in view. And as this elegant volume, so creditable to American art, genius, and feeling, could only have been produced by a heavy expenditure of time and money, we most sincerely hope that the author, and all who have had any hand in its beautiful illustrations, will meet with a quick and substantial reward for their patriotic labors.
FromLippincott, Grambo, & Co.(successors to Grigg & Elliot), No. 14 North Fourth Street, Philadelphia:—
THE UNDERGROUND MAIL AGENT. By Vidi. Illustrated with designs by White. This, as the reader will be most likely to judge from the title, is another of those works which have been published in rapid succession, setting forth the advantages and the disadvantages, the humanity and the inhumanity of a certain domestic institution. The object of the author has been to contrast the condition of those who live subject to the institution referred to, and to render its general aspects more favorable to their comfort and happiness, than is the condition of the same race of beings in the enjoyment of personal freedom. A tale of some interest, but of no great probability, is interwoven with the main design of the author.
FromJ. S. Redfield, Clinton Hall, New York, throughW. B. Zieber, Philadelphia:—
LIFE IN THE MISSION, THE CAMP, AND THE ZENANA;or, Six Years in India. By Mrs. Colin Mackenzie. In two volumes. This is evidently the work of a woman of good sense, amiable feelings, and acute observation, possessing, withal, a courageous Christian heart. Her close and well-written narrative will afford the reader a vast deal of instructive incident illustrative of varied life in India. Its minute descriptions of the domestic habits and manners of the oppressed and idolatrous natives, its continued references to the arduous duties of the missionaries, and its often indignant comments upon the tyrannical forms and practices of the Anglo-Indian government, will most fully command the attention of the reader to its close.
FromTicknor, Reed, & Fields, Boston, throughW. P. Hazard, Philadelphia:—
MEMOIRS OF THE LIFE AND CHARACTER OF THE RIGHT HON. EDMUND BURKE;with Specimens of his Poetry and Letters, and an estimate of his Genius and Talents compared with those of his great Contemporaries. A new edition, revised and enlarged. By Thomas Pryor, Esq. In two volumes. This is a standard work, which no student of political history, no public speaker, no statesman should be without. The subject of this interesting memoir, Edmund Burke, was one of the most eloquent, liberal, just, and fearless men of the eventful times in which he lived. And yet he was remarkable for his modesty and unobtrusiveness—we might almost say for the humility of his character. On this account, if on no other, these volumes would form an important and instructive study for many of the young men of the present day, who are aspirants for literary, legal, or political honors. They will show to them how consistently the highest attainments in any or all these branches can be made to secure to their possessors the highest triumphs, without a single departure from the strictest propriety, and while sustaining a reputation as guileless as that of childhood.
LIGHT ON THE DARK RIVER;or, Memorials of Mrs. Henrietta A. L. Hamlin, Missionary in Turkey. By Margarette Woods Lawrence. In these memorials of a pious and amiable missionary lady, the Christian reader will meet with consoling examples of faith and resignation to the will of God under the severest trials and afflictions.
FromBlanchard & Lea, Philadelphia:—
OUTLINES OF SCRIPTURE GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY:illustrating the Historical portions of the Old and New Testaments. Designed for the use of schools and private reading. By Edward Hughes, F. R. A. S., F. R. G. S., Head Master of the Royal Naval Lower School, Greenwich hospital; author of "Outlines of Physical Geography," "An Atlas of Physical, Political, and Commercial Geography," etc. etc. It will not be required of us by the observing Christian, who has read the title of this work, that we should say more than that it is all it modestly pretends to be. To the devout student of the Holy Scriptures it will impart a new and delightful interest. It will at once strengthen his faith and enlarge the sphere of his knowledge, renderinghim familiar not only with the characters of the prophets and apostles, but familiar also with their places of birth, of their places of residence, of the routes they travelled, and of the scenes of their sufferings and triumphs. A great portion of the work is formed of extracts from the writings of religious and literary men, who have visited the interesting regions described, and in whose contemplations we have all the beauties of the sublimest poetry blended with the simplest truths of Scripture history.
FromD. Appleton & Co., New York, throughC. G. Henderson & Co., Philadelphia:—
THE LIFE OF WILLIAM PINKNEY. By his Nephew, the Rev. William Pinkney, D. D. Here is a work that will at once recommend itself to the American student and the general reader. If any good reason can be given why we should be familiar with the orators and statesmen of Europe, there can certainly be no excuse for our ignorance in regard to the same class of men whose names are an honor to our own country. Among the illustrious men who were the contemporaries of Clay, Webster, Calhoun, Marshall, and others, all of whom have passed away, was William Pinkney, the subject of these memoirs. Perhaps no one among his great competitors exceeded him in eloquence, and certainly none of them ever had greater opportunities of becoming acquainted with the statesmen and the diplomatic policy of England and of Europe, during one of the most eventful periods in history. This volume will be deeply interesting to our young men.
FromL. K. Lippincott, No. 66 South Third Street, Philadelphia:—
THE LITTLE PILGRIM.A Monthly Journal for Girls and Boys.Edited by Grace Greenwood. This is the modest title of a neat and pleasant-looking periodical, which has just entered upon its career of usefulness, under the editorial charge of one well known to our readers. We are happy to see our fair friend engaged in an occupation so congenial to her heart as that of providing for the literary wants of the little ones. That Grace's reward may be commensurate with the worth and excellence of what she can and will do is our heartfelt wish, and one which, if granted, will find her "Little Pilgrim" a welcome visitant to every household in the land.
The terms of the "Little Pilgrim" are fifty cents a year, or ten copies for four dollars. Payment invariably in advance.
FromG. P. Putnam, New York, throughW. B. Zieber, Philadelphia:—
MR. RUTHERFORD'S CHILDREN. This is the first number of a juvenile series, to be published under the general title of "Ellen Montgomery's Book-Case." When we state that it is from the pen of the author of "The Wide, Wide World," "Queechy," etc., our friends will require from us no other assurance of its merits. We are glad to see our writers turning their attention to a better kind of literature for children. Books of this class, even from authors of moderate abilities, are acceptable; but, when they bear the impress of genius and talent, they are, indeed, invaluable. Under their influence, we confidently hope the rising generation will grow up pure in morals, with noble and affectionate hearts, and with minds well stored with things not brilliant only, but useful and entertaining. The engravings in the volume by which these remarks have been elicited are beautiful. The types with which it is printed are large and clear, and the paper exquisite.
WESTERN CHARACTERS;or, Types of Border Life in the Western States. By J. L. McConnell, author of "Talbot and Vernon," "The Glenns," etc. etc. With illustrations by Darley. This is a highly entertaining volume, written in a clear, forcible, and pleasant style, and valuable for the amount of interesting information it contains with regard to characters, some of which, a century hence, perhaps, will have no living representatives. As to the correctness of these "Types," we are not abundantly qualified to speak; but they seem to us to be accurate, and certainly are delineated with a skilful and vigorous hand.
FromJ. W. Moore, 195 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia:—
THE LIFE, EULOGY, AND GREAT ORATIONS OF DANIEL WEBSTER. We have already noticed the appearance of this volume, and spoken favorably of its character. It is sold wholesale and retail by the gentlemanly publisher, from whom we have received our present copy.
FromEli Adams, Publisher, Davenport, Iowa:—
THE PENNY MAGAZINE,of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge. American republication from the English plates. Volume 1. Semi-monthly Parts, 1, 2, and 3. In this age, one is to be surprised only by something that is really surprising. We confess we were not a little astonished by receiving, from what was lately the backwoods, these finely printed numbers of a new edition of an old favorite. May success attend the efforts of the enterprising publisher!
CHILDREN'S BOOKS FOR THE HOLIDAYS. Go to Henderson & Co., Corner of Fifth and Arch Streets, and there you will find the handsomest assortment in the city. They have sent us "Happy Days of Childhood," by Amy Meadows. It contains twenty-four splendid full-page engravings—pictures, really handsome embellishments, showing artistic skill and beauty, very different from those of any other house that we have yet seen. We have also received from Messrs. H. & Co. two large quarto Children's Books, each entitled "The Picture Pleasure Book for 1854," containing in each number five hundred engravings, and all executed in the most masterly manner. These are books that one feels gratified in presenting to children; they are complimentary to the donor's taste. Call at Henderson & Co.'s and see their superb assortment.
NOVELS, SERIALS, PAMPHLETS, &c.
From D. Appleton & Co., New York, through C. G. Henderson & Co., Philadelphia: "All's not Gold that Glitters: or, the Young Californian." By Cousin Alice, author of "No such word as Fail," "Contentment better than Wealth," etc. etc. If we did not recollect a happy event which took place some months since, we might, indeed, feel surprised at the accuracy with which Cousin Alice describes a voyage around Cape Horn, as well as the condition and habits of the miners and other worthy citizens of the gold regions. But, after all, our personal recollections have nothing to do with the real merits of the book, which are, indeed, of the first order, morally, intellectually, and in its vivid and truthful powers of description.—"Parley's Present for all Seasons." By S. C. Goodrich, author of "Parley's Tales," etc. This is a handsomely illustrated volume, containing twenty-five of Peter's pleasant tales for children.—"Busy Moments of an Idle Woman." This volume comprises several excellent tales.
From Dewitt & Davenport, New York: "Helen Malgrave; or, the Jesuit Executorship: being a Passage in the Life of a Seceder from Romanism." An Autobiography.—"The Monk's Revenge: or, the Secret Enemy." A tale of the later Crusades. By Samuel Spring, Esq.
From J. S. Redfield, Clinton Hall, New York, through W. B. Zieber, Philadelphia: "The Blackwater Chronicle. A Narrative of an Expedition into the Land of Canaan, in Randolph County, Va.—a country flowing with wild animals, such as Panthers, Bears, Wolves, Elk, Deer, Otter, Badger, &c. &c., with innumerable Trout—by Five Adventurous Gentlemen, without any aid of government, and solely upon their own resources, in the Summer of 1851." By "the Clerk of Oxenforde." This book is mainly descriptive of a romantic and beautiful section of country, the advantages of which are imperfectly understood.
From Charles Scribner, New York, through A. Hart, Philadelphia: "Gustavus Lindorm; or, 'Lead us not into Temptation.'" By Emilie F. Carlen, author of "One Year of Wedlock," "The Bride of Ombery," etc. With a preface to her American readers by the author. From the original Swedish, by Elbert Perce. This is a very interesting domestic tale by a favorite author. The preface pays a handsome tribute to some of the best American writers, while the work itself sustains throughout a high moral and religious feeling.—"Tip-Top; or, a Noble Aim." A book for boys and girls. By Mrs. S. C. Tuthill, author of "I'll be a Gentleman," "I'll be a Lady," etc. etc. This is a most attractive little volume. The wholesome lessons it contains cannot fail to make a deep and salutary lesson upon the minds of youthful readers.—"Sparing to Spend; or the Loftons and Pinkertons." By T. S. Arthur. It has been truly said of Mr. Arthur, that he never writes without an aim, and that always a good one. The high moral aim of the present volume is "to exhibit the evils that flow from the too common lack of prudence, self-denial, and economy in young people at the beginning of life; and also to show, by contrast, the beneficial results of a wise restriction of the wants to the means." No one will rise from the perusal of this naturally written story without feeling himself strengthened in all good and honorable resolutions.—"The Little Drummer; or, Filial Affection." A story of the Russian campaign. By Gustav Nieritz. Translated from the German, by Mrs. H. E. Conant. This little work, which will greatly interest the youthful reader, is from the pen of a favorite German author.
From T. B. Peterson, Philadelphia: "The Countess de Charny." We have received the second and last volume of this charming work by Dumas. We would willingly have three or four more volumes.—"Ten Thousand a Year." By the author of the "Diary of a London Physician." In one volume complete. Price 50 cents.
From Bunce & Brother, New York, through T. B. Peterson, Philadelphia: "The Star Chamber: an Historical Romance." By Wm. Harrison Ainsworth, author of "Old St. Paul's," etc. etc.—"Jack Adams, the Mutineer." By Capt. Frederick Chamier, R. N., author of "The Spitfire," etc.
From Hermann J. Meyer, 164 William Street, New York: Nos. 3, 4, and 5 of "Meyer's Monats Hefte," a beautifully printed and illustrated German magazine.—Parts 6 and 7, Vol. 2, of "Meyer's Universum."—Parts 4 and 5 (East and West) of "The United States Illustrated; or, Views of the City and Country." With descriptions and historical articles. Edited by Charles A. Dana. This is a valuable publication, presenting some of the finest views on the American continent, elegantly engraved by the first artists.
"Ladies' Winter Book of Crochet Patterns." Miss Annie T. Wilbur has issued a pamphlet containing a large number of receipts for working crochet patterns. It is published by Moses H. Sargent, of Newburyport, Mass. The explanations are very minute, and Miss W. has herself worked every pattern that she has given in the book.
Scintillations in the Atmosphere.—When a globule of sodium is thrown intohotwater, the decomposition is so violent that small particles of the metal are thrown out of the water, and actually burn with scintillation and flame in passing through the atmosphere.
A Lamp without a Flame.—Procure six or eight inches of platinum wire, about the hundredth part of an inch in thickness, coil it round a small cylinder ten or twelve times, then drop it on the flame of a spirit-lamp, so that part may touch the wick and part remain above it. Light the lamp, and when it has burned a minute or two, put it out; the wire will then be ignited, and continue so long as any spirit remains in the lamp. Lamps manufactured on this principle are sold sometimes by the chemists.
Luminous Characters.—Take a piece of phosphorus and fix it firmly into a quill; with this write any sentence or fanciful figure or character on a whitewashed wall, and in the dark the characters will appear beautifully luminous. Care must be taken while using the quill to dip it in a basin of cold water frequently, or the repeated friction will cause it to inflame, to the manifest detriment of the operator.
Light produced from Sugar.—If two large pieces of sugar (loaf) are rubbed together in the dark, a light blue flame, like lightning, will be emitted. The same effect is produced when a piece of loaf sugar is struck with a hammer.
Green Fire.—Take of flowers of sulphur thirteen drachms, of nitrate of barytes seventy-seven drachms, of oxymuriate of potash five, of metallic arsenic two, of charcoal three. The nitrate of barytes should be well dried and powdered; it should then be mixed with the other ingredients, all finely pulverized, and the whole triturated until perfectly blended together. A little calamine may be occasionally added, to make the mixture burn slower.
The Protean Light.—Soak a cotton wick in a strong solution of salt and water, dry it, place it in a spirit lamp, and, when lighted, it will give a bright yellow light for a long time. If you look through a piece of blue glass at the flame, it will lose all its yellow light, and you will only perceive feeble violet rays. If before the blue glass, you place a yellow glass, the lamp will be absolutely invisible, though a candle may be distinctly seen through the same glasses.
Light from a Flower.—Hold a lighted candle to the flower of thefraxinella, and it will dart forth little flashes of light. This beautiful appearance is caused by the essential and inflammable oil contained in small vessels at the extremities of the flower, which vessels burn at the approach of any inflamed body, setting at liberty the essential oil, as that contained in orange-peel is discharged by pressure.
Brilliant Light from Steel.—Pour into a watch glass a little sulphuret of carbon, and light it; hold in the flame a brush of steel wire, and it will burn beautifully. A watch-spring may also be burnt in it.
Light from Flannel.—Shake flannel in the dark, and it will emit a light similar to that produced from rubbing the back of a cat.
Our January Number.—We have no hesitation in saying that this is, so far, the handsomest number we have ever published, in all respects: reading matter, pictorial illustrations, paper, and typography. We again are obliged to give new type, and in our choice of that we think we have been very successful. It is large and clear, and will not be so trying to the eyes as our former small type. It was manufactured for us by Messrs. Collins & M'Leester, and is in every way worthy their established reputation. We have said that this is our best number so far; but we do not mean to say that it is the best number we intend to publish, we make no such promise. Time will show; but if any magazine intends to come in competition with us, they must work harder than we do to please a public that has ever been generous to us.
Our January number is a type of the year, with the exception of the engraved title-page, which we always give in the first number. We do not commence with a large number of pages and plates to catch subscribers, and then dwindle down to a shadow. This thing is beginning to be understood by the public and the press. Hear what the "Auburn Gazette" says on the subject:—
"Godey's Lady's Book.—The last number is, of course, better than the ladies bargained for, for the veteran Godey not only does not do things miserly, but always gives more than he promises. This is perhaps the great reason of his success and popularity. We have seen January numbers of magazines that were really magnificent, but by December their attractions have 'grown small by degrees and beautifully less.' Godey's practice is the reverse of this. Excelsior! is his motto, and nobly does heworkup to it. Without saying more, we simply suggest that now is the time to form clubs for the next year."
If we fall off in any respect from what we have stated above, we beg to be reminded of it.
Our Title-page for 1854.—This is really one of the most beautiful engravings we have ever published: "Time in search of Cupid." Here we have history, painting, sculpture, music, love, flowers, a little buncomb in the shape of the American Flag, and the portrait of a very worthy person, who has been the ladies' humble servant for twenty-four years. Designed for the "Book" by Gilbert, of London.
The Pleiades.—This engraving was designed expressly for the "Lady's Book" by Wm. Croome, Esq.: it recommends itself. May we say a word here about original designs? We believe that we are the only publisher that has ever gone to the expense of having original designs made for engraving. We have had more than one hundred original designs made for our own use by such artists as Gilbert, of London, Darley, Rothermel, Croome, Schussele, Waitt, and others.
Our Fashion Plate.—We challenge any one to produce anything that can be compared to it this side of Louis Napoleon's dominions.
To the Ladies.—As the season has now arrived, will our lady subscribers please bear in mind the appeal we made to them in our November number, 1853?
We must again remind our subscribers that they need not wait for collecting agents to call, but please remit us at once for last year, and, at the same time, include the subscription for 1854.
General Agency for Periodicals.—Many persons wishing to subscribe for different publications do not like the trouble of writing several letters. This may be obviated by sending the money to the subscriber, who will attend to all orders punctually, whether for publications monthly or weekly in this city or elsewhere.
Any information asked for by any of our subscribers we will cheerfully give, if it is in our power.
We will attend to purchasing any goods that may be desired, and will forward them at the lowest market price.
Brodie, of 51 Canal St., New York, again shines in this number. His store is besieged with customers, and he deserves his success.
Our New Department.—Drawing Lessons.—We recommend the simple method here practised to parents. It is the simplest method of teaching drawing we have ever seen.
A lady writes us: "I find your patterns with diagrams how to cut dresses invaluable to me. I have used every one, and have not failed in any one instance in getting a most becoming garment."
It is well suggested by a lady subscriber that the interest of the "Lady's Book" does not cease with the receipt of the numbers. She says that it is worth more to her when bound as a book of reference for receipts and other matters than any Cyclopædia.
We wish it to be distinctly understood that our fashions are always in advance, so that ladies in distant places can have their dresses made by our descriptions, and wear them at the same time that they are worn in Philadelphia and New York.
"That's Enough."—So say we. If every one would only do as the editor of the "Raleigh Age" has done, hand the "Lady's Book" to his wife—ah, bother! there it is again, we are always forgetting that some of our friends are not so blessed;—well, if they will only hand the "Book" to some female friend, they will all most likely say, as the good wife of "The Age" says, "It is capital," and then the gentleman can add what the editor, in this case, has done, "That's enough."
A young Miss, at a party, was observed once, when it was growing late in the evening, to be getting quite uneasy; they had gone through a great many plays of different kinds, but none of them seemed to suit her: at last, finding it impossible to conceal her uneasiness any longer, she stepped up to the mistress of the house with "Please, ma'am, when does the kissing commence?" We find from our exchanges that, in our own case, it is about to commence with us now. Well, after waiting twenty-four years, rather longer than the young lady had to wait, we can only say "Barcus is willing." Henry Clay kissed his way fromNorth to South, and from East to West; Godey can't refuse—come on, come one, come all. The "Georgia Standard" says: "Mr. Godey, we have a notion of getting up a $10 club, and see how many kisses we can collect for you in the bargain. If we meet with any success (and, for your sake, we are quite confident), we will send the money and retain the kisses, or retain them and send the money, as you please."
Now it strikes us that this editor, in question, never says kisses for us, but is for keeping them all to himself, something like the saying of the boys, "Heads I win, tails you lose." We are content anyhow.
"Ah, she thinks that I forget her."—The ballad published in our December number was presented to us by Messrs. Andrews & Co., the popular music sellers of Spring Garden St., and is copyrighted, which we neglected to insert under the title.
Music from Andrews's Celebrated Depot, 66 Spring Garden St.—"Gems of the Ball-room," as taught by Mr. and Mrs. Durang, among which will be found "Pop goes the Weasel," the rage now in London, La Willicka; the gems consist of six pieces. We have also received T. C. Andrews's collection of new and fashionable Polkas, Waltzes, Schottisches, &c. "The Return to Philadelphia," a waltz, composed and dedicated to Mr. Andrews by Louis S. D. Rees; "Morning and Evening," two new and beautiful Polkas, composed by Mrs. Burtis.
We shall be happy to furnish our subscribers with any music from this establishment.
Peter Richings, Esq., and his Daughter.—We have been presented with an engraving of the above, perfectly lifelike, reflecting great credit on the artists, Messrs. Wagner & McGuigan. We understand that the success of Mr. R. and daughter has been very great, and we beg leave to recommend them to our friends of the press wherever they may go. They will find in Mr. Richings the perfect gentleman, a man whom we have known for the last twenty years, and never heard a word uttered to his disparagement.
Lithography.—We fancy now that no improvement can be made in printing in colors upon the beautiful specimen lately presented to us by Wm. D. Chillas, Bulletin Buildings, South Third St. In the centre is the best head of Washington we have ever seen, not a mass of yellow and red, but beautifully colored. On his right is a full-length portrait of Liberty, and on his left, Fortitude. A beautiful representation of the Crystal Palace is at the bottom of the picture, a city is seen at the top, in front of which is a splendid full figure of the Genius of Liberty. We give but a faint description of the plate; it must be seen to be appreciated. The colors are beautifully contrasted, and the whole affair we pronounce decidedly the most splendid specimen of printing in colors we have ever seen.
We see an article going the rounds of the papers that an old lady has had her third new set of teeth. We see nothing remarkable in this except the expense. Our dentists here charge some $200 for a new set of teeth.
Doctor, he has Done It.—A physician in this city tells the following story—not without some regret on his part for the advice given:—
"A hard-working woman had a drunken husband, who, when partly sober, would get the blues and endeavor to destroy himself by taking laudanum. Twice did the wife ascertain that he had swallowed the destructive drug, and twice did the doctor restore him. Upon the second restoration, the doctor addressed him as follows: "'You good-for-nothing scoundrel, you don't want to kill yourself, you merely want to annoy your wife and me. If you want to kill yourself, why don't you cut your throat and put an end to the matter?' Well, away went the doctor, and thought no more of his patient until, some two weeks after, he was awakened from a sound nap by the tinkling of his night-bell. He put his head out of the window and inquired 'What's the matter?' 'Doctor, he has done it,' was the reply. 'Done what?' 'John has taken your advice.' 'What advice?' 'Why you told him to cut his throat, and he has done it, and he is uncommon dead this time.'" Imagine the doctor's feelings. He has since ceased giving suchcuttingadvice.
We presume most of our readers have seen or heard of the beautiful song of "The Mistletoe Bough." The following parody we consider one of the best we ever saw:—
THE VORK-'OUSE BOY.