KÖstlin’s “Life of Luther”[C] is really an important contribution to our biographical literature. The fourth centennial has just been celebrated in all Protestant countries, and much valuable information given to the people from the pulpit and the press. The Reformation and the principal agent God used to accomplish it are now discussed as they have not been before for five centuries—yet the subject is by no means exhausted. This latest book from the pen of a learned German so well qualified, and thoroughly furnished for his work, will be read with unusual interest by thousands whose attention has recently been directed to the life and time of the great reformer. The Professor, whose larger work in two volumes is a classic, has also wrought well in this, and given us a real biography that presents its subject fairly. All essential facts are freely admitted, even when disparaging, and any one by attentive reading will gain a better knowledge of Luther, of his homes and his friends. The author, who did his work well, doubtless appears to better advantage in his own vernacular than in the translation, which, though creditable as very plain English, might be improved by re-casting some sentences, and by a little more careful proof reading.

“The Old Testament Student” is a well filled, ably conducted monthly magazine, published at Chicago for the “American Institute of Hebrew,” subscription price, $2.00. It can hardly fail to be useful to all Bible students, particularly those who desire a more thorough acquaintance with the original.

“Mottoes of Methodism”[D] is an unassuming but beautiful little volume, and would be found a real treasure in any Christian family. It is simply a selection of brief suggestive passages from the prose writings of John, and the poetry of Charles Wesley; harmonized with a passage of Scripture for each day of the year. Some other title, we think, as “Themes for Daily Meditation,” “Helpful Suggestions from Reliable Sources,” would better indicate the character of the book, which is intensely evangelical, but, in no sense, distinctively Methodistic.

BOOKS RECEIVED.

“Judith; a Chronicle of Old Virginia.” By Marion Harland. Illustrated. Philadelphia: Our Continent Publishing Co. New York: Fords, Howard and Hurlburt. 1883.

“Mexico and The Mexican; or Notes of Travel in the Winter and Spring of 1883.” By Howard Conkling. With illustrations. New York: Taintor Brothers, Merril & Co. 1883.

“Suggestions to China Painters.” By M. Louise McLaughlin. Cincinnati: Robert Clarke & Co. 1884.

“Oregon; The Struggle for Possession.” By William Barrows. Boston: Houghton, Mifflin & Co. 1884.