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.
From Henry Carey Baird (successor to E. L. Carey), No. 7 Hart's Buildings, Sixth Street above Chestnut, Philadelphia:—
SPECIMENS OF THE BRITISH POETS; with Biographical and Critical Notices, and an Essay on English Poetry. By Thomas Campbell, Esq. This is a new edition, revised and with additional notes, of a work which has long since passed the ordeal of criticism unscathed. Nothing more remains to us, therefore, than to notice the beautiful appearance of the present edition, with its appropriate illustrations, elegant binding, and attractive typography. But of this few need be told. Mr. Baird's poetical publications are already celebrated.
From Blanchard & Lea, Philadelphia:—
ON THE USE AND ABUSE OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE. By William B. Carpenter, M. D., F. R. S., Examiner in Physiology in the University of London, Professor of Medical Jurisprudence in University College, etc. With a preface by D. F. Condie, M. D., Secretary of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, etc. The author of this essay takes strong ground against the habitual use of alcoholic liquors, even in moderate quantities. Medically, he favors their employment in certain cases; but with the same precautions that are observed in administering "any other powerful remedy which is poisonous in large doses." With a view to its circulation as an auxiliary in the temperance cause, Dr. Condie, the American editor, has added to the popular elements of the work by explaining concisely, yet clearly, its technical language; while Messrs. Blanchard & Lea have prepared copies in flexible cloth, suitable for mailing, which they will forward, free of postage, to any part of the United States, on receipt of fifty cents. For $30, one hundred copies may be obtained, the purchaser to pay freight charges.
A HISTORY OF ROMAN CLASSICAL LITERATURE. By R. W. Browne, M. A., Ph. D., Prebendary of St. Paul's, and Professor of Classical Literature in King's College, London. Unlike the generality of works of its class, this volume is not made up wholly of the names of authors and the titles of their works. These, however, it does not omit; but there is nothing dry or uninteresting in their enumeration. Well adapted for the use of classes in schools, it need not be shunned by such readers as desire a graceful style and entertaining narrative, while they would be fully informed with regard to the subject upon which it treats.
From Lippincott, Grambo, & Co. (successors to Grigg & Elliot), No. 14 North Fourth Street, Philadelphia:—
LINES FOR THE GENTLE AND LOVING. By Thomas MacKellar. A modest-looking, but charmingly printed little collection of unpretending poems, which, though they may not possess the sublimer elements of poesy, are nevertheless well calculated to touch the heart and excite it to tender and generous action.
A DICTIONARY OF DOMESTIC MEDICINE AND HOUSEHOLD SURGERY. By Spencer Thomson, M. D. First American from the last London edition. Revised, with additions, by Henry H. Smith, M. D. A work of this kind should be found in every family. It would prove an invaluable assistant to a mother, or those who have the care of the family. Diseases are described simply and clearly; all the ordinary medicines are treated of, and their use explained; and, although it by no means takes the place of the physician, yet it would be of great use in an innumerable number of cases, especially where the aid and advice of a medical practitioner cannot be readily obtained. The names of the compiler and editor are a sufficient guarantee for the correctness of the work.
From Lindsay & Blakiston, Philadelphia:—
THE PHYSIOLOGY OF TASTE; or, Transcendental Gastronomy. Illustrated by Anecdotes of Distinguished Artists and Statesmen of both Continents (Europe and America). By Brillat Savarin. Translated from the last Paris edition, by Fayette Robinson. A book for epicureans, gastronomists, and the admirers of Parisian wit; but one which, with all its peculiar merits, we cannot consider an extremely desirable addition to our translated literature.
From Leary & Getz, No. 138 North Second Street, Philadelphia:—
THE LIFE AND SPEECHES OF HENRY CLAY. Two volumes in one. In this very heavy volume of more than a thousand pages, we have a succinct narrative, somewhat partisan in its tone, of the career of the great statesman and orator, together with full and correct reports of all his more important speeches, from that "On the Line of the Perdido," to the later effort in support of the "Compromise Bills."
From Willis P. Hazard, No. 178 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia:—
THE AMERICAN FAMILY ROBINSON; or, the Adventures of a Family Lost in the Great Desert of the West. By D. W. Belisle. With illustrations. Aside from its interest as a tale abounding in strange and stirring adventures, with which the young cannot fail to be delighted, this volume will prove attractive to "the larger growth" of children, as one imparting in a pleasant way all the existing knowledge with regard to those antiquities of the Great West which render it wellnigh certain that those wilds were once peopled—centuries ago, perhaps—with a race infinitely more cultivated than the restless, barbarous tribes that now wander there. Pleased with the design and execution of the literary portion of this entertaining work, we must also notice the beautiful appearance of its typography and binding, and the excellence of its four steel plate illustrations.
From D. Appleton & Co., No. 200 Broadway, New York, through C. G. Henderson & Co., corner of Fifth and Arch Streets, Philadelphia:—
AN ATTEMPT TO EXHIBIT THE TRUE THEORY OF CHRISTIANITY AS A CONSISTENT AND PRACTICAL SYSTEM. By William S. Grayson. The author of this volume displays much ingenuity of argument and originality of thought in his discussion of questions so momentous as those of man's fall, redemption, and free moral agency. His "object," he informs us, "has been primarily to reconcile the philosophy of reason with the spiritual laws of the Gospel."
THE HEARTH-STONE: Thoughts upon Home-Life in our Cities. By Samuel Osgood, author of "Studies in Christian Biography," "God with Men; or, Footprints of Providential Leaders," etc. Mr. Osgood's reflections show him to be a man of kindly feelings, Christian sympathy, and cultivated intellect. His book is a most acceptable one. None who love the peaceful joys and quiet beauties of home should be without it.
THE INVALID'S OWN BOOK: a Collection of Recipes from various Books and various Countries. By the Hon. Lady Cust. In its peculiar province, this is an invaluable little book.
A WEEK'S DELIGHT; or, Games and Stories for the Parlor and Fireside. Prepared for the use of the young. This volume of entertaining games and stories will, we doubt not, find a welcome reception in families who love their children, and wish them to enjoy themselves innocently.
From Harper & Brothers, New York, through Lindsay & Blakiston, Philadelphia:—
HISTORY OF THE INSURRECTION IN CHINA; with Notices of the Christianity, Creed, and Proclamations of the Insurgents. By MM. Callery and Yvan. Translated from the French, with a supplementary chapter, narrating the most recent events, by John Oxenford. With a fac-simile of a Chinese map of the course of the insurrection, and a portrait of Tien-Te, its Chief. Probably no movement of modern times presents so important an aspect as that of the revolution now going on in the great empire of the "Celestials." To those desiring information with regard to its origin, leaders, and progress, the work under notice will prove interesting and acceptable.
THE CZAR AND THE SULTAN; or, Nicholas and Abdul Medjid: their Private Lives and Public Actions. By Adrian Gilson. To which is added, "The Turks in Europe: their Rise and Decadence." By Francis Bouvet. Like the foregoing volume, this little work has been brought out to meet the demand created by stirring events of the day. Giving a clear and concise statement of the character and antecedents of the two monarchs, upon whose doings the attention of half the world has of late been riveted, it also contains an account of the past and present condition of the Turkish empire, in which the manners, customs, and religion of the people are treated of briefly, but comprehensively.
HISTORY OF GREECE. By George Grote, Esq. Vol. 11. Reprinted from the London edition. In this volume, the learned historian brings down his narrative to the death of Philip of Macedon. One other volume, embracing the reign of Alexander, will conclude the work.
MEMOIRS OF JOHN ABERNETHY, F. R. S. With a View of his Lectures, Writings, and Character. By George Macilwain, F. R. C. S., author of "Medicine and Surgery," "One Inductive Science," etc. This work the author confesses to have been a labor of love. Both his heart and intellect were with the great physician, whose life and character he has so skilfully delineated that, while the medical practitioner cannot fail to peruse his account with profit, the general reader will find himself continually and deeply interested in it. With regard to Abernethy's rudeness, of which so many anecdotes have been related, Professor Macilwain remarks: "His manner was at times, and in all serious cases, and to hospital patients, as unaffectedly kind as could be desired. On many occasions of minor import, his impulsiveness of character led him to say things which, however much we may palliate, we shall not attempt to excuse." But "his roughness was really superficial. It was the easiest thing in the world to develop the real kindness of heart which lay beneath it."
LIFE OF BENJAMIN ROBERT HAYDON, HISTORICAL PAINTER, from his Autobiography and Journals. Edited and compiled by Tom Taylor, of the Inner Temple, Esq., late Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge; and late Professor of the English Language and Literature in University College, London. "My task," says the editor of these two thick volumes, "has been that of presenting the self-portraiture, which Haydon left behind him, in such a light as may show the work intelligibly.... It is not the biography of Haydon, but his autobiography—not a life of him by me, but his life by himself." And, truly, Mr. Taylor has performed his part with discrimination and judgment. Strangely interesting is the record that has thus been given us of the great but unfortunate painter's struggles through the world. Even as a study of character, it will not lack readers.
HISTORY OF THE CAPTIVITY OF NAPOLEON AT ST. HELENA. From the Letters and Journals of the late Lieutenant-General Sir Hudson Lowe, and Official Documents not before made public. By William Forsyth, M. A., author of "Hortensius," and "History of Trial by Jury;" late Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. In two volumes. Nothing relative to the first Napoleon, however trifling, can be valueless or unattractive. The work before us is an important one, and of deep interest, inasmuch as it is a very full, though not unprejudiced account of the captivity and last days of the great Corsican. But, while acknowledging the historical value of Mr. Forsyth's labors, we reserve to ourselves the opinion that his special pleading in behalf of Sir Hudson Lowe and the British government will fall far short of its intended effect.
From M. W. Dodd, opposite the City Hall, New York, through Willis P. Hazard, 176 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia:—
OLD SIGHTS WITH NEW EYES. By a Yankee. With an introduction by Robert Baird, D. D. Written in a concise, plain, and yet graceful style, this little volume of European travels will be found an entertaining and useful guide to any one designing to pursue the route adopted by its author; who, we are told, is a "young New England clergyman, whose modesty" has constrained him from presenting his name to the public.
From J. S. Redfield, 110 and 112 Nassau Street, New York, through W. B. Zieber, Philadelphia:—
MINNESOTA AND ITS RESOURCES. To which are added Camp-Fire Sketches; or, Notes of a Trip from St. Paul to Pembina and Selkirk Settlement on the Red River of the North. By J. Wesley Bond. Lying along and around the head waters of the Mississippi, the new Territory of Minnesota offers one of the most attractive homes for emigration. For the variety and picturesqueness of its scenery, the salubrity of its climate, and the number and completeness of its agricultural advantages, it is scarcely equalled by any other portion of our country. As containing a comprehensive, clear, and pleasantly-written account of the past history and present condition of Minnesota, the work before us will be found indispensable by those designing to emigrate there, while the general reader will derive from it much valuable information, with a great deal that may prove entertaining.
A MONTH IN ENGLAND. By Henry T. Tuckerman. Favored by the completeness of the railway system of England, Mr. Tuckerman was enabled to inspect many more "specimens" of that country's peculiarities than we might have expected him to do in so brief a visit. With quick and cultivated powers of observation, refined in his tastes, well-informed in all that relates to literature and art, and mastering an elegant style, he has succeeded in investing his pen pictures of well-known scenes with all the attractive brightness of novelty, yet retaining the mellow softness of tone so well suited to the character of the subjects.
From Derby & Miller, Auburn, New York, through T. B. Peterson, Philadelphia:—
LITTLE FERNS. By Fanny Fern. We have received this most agreeable little book, which is full of the peculiar characteristics of Fanny's mode of writing. The work is worthy of her, and she has given us some of the most beautiful children's stories we have ever read. The first edition was 20,000. We presume now it is 40,000.
From C. M. Saxton, Agricultural Book Publisher, New York:—
LANDSCAPE GARDENING; or, Parks and Pleasure Grounds. With Practical Notes on Country Residences, Villas, Public Parks, and Gardens. By Charles H. G. Smith, Landscape Gardener, Garden Architect, etc. With notes and additions. By Lewis F. Allen, author of "Rural Architecture," etc. We have already spoken favorably of this excellent and most desirable volume. For the benefit of our distant subscribers, who may wish to send for the work, we may state that its price is $1 25.
RURAL ARCHITECTURE. By Lewis F. Allen. Containing numerous designs for cottage and other residences, farm-houses and out-buildings, carriage and wagon-houses, stables, poultry-houses, piggery, barns, and sheds for cattle. Also, the best method of conducting water into cattle-yards and houses, &c. &c. Containing an immense number of designs beautifully engraved. We can furnish our subscribers at $1 25. A very cheap work.
From Charles Scribner, Nassau Street, New York, through T. B. Peterson, 102 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia:—
UP THE RIVER. By F. W. Shelton, author of "Rector of St. Bardolph's," and "Salander the Dragon." With illustrations from original designs. This is a series of letters professedly written from a country-seat, "up the river," and somewhere in the vicinity of that most beautiful portion of the Hudson, the Tappaan Sea. Suns setting lovely and uprising gloriously, Shanghai chickens, cottages, pig-styes, cows, horses, playful lambs, delightful landscapes, and all the pains, pleasures, and occupations of rural life during the year, are here talked of in the most natural way in the world; but in good taste withal, and with hearty, genial, delicate humor. Nor are literary topics left untouched; while, occasionally, a sage reflection is thrown in unobtrusively, yet so as to attract thoughtful attention. The volume will enhance the already high reputation of its author, and deserves, as it will obtain, many and admiring readers.
From Charles Scribner, New York, through A. Hart, Philadelphia:—
HEALTH TRIP TO THE TROPICS. By N. Parker Willis. We have here collected and printed, in one elegant volume, the interesting letters, already given to the public through the columns of the "Home Journal," which were written by Willis during his "health trip" to the West Indies, and to several of our western and north-western States. These letters bear no evidence of their author's having been in any condition but that of cheerful health, and contain many piquant reflections and observations, along with much useful information with regard to the places and peoples visited.
AUTUMN HOURS AND FIRESIDE READING. By Mrs. C. M. Kirkland. Such as are so fortunate as to possess Mrs. Kirkland's two previous miscellanies may form some idea of the perfection to which the engraver, the printer, and the binder have carried their respective arts in the preparation of this exquisite volume. Its contents are worthy the grace and beauty in which they are enshrined. Still better, like a pure heart in a fair body, they have qualities that will long outlast their exterior elegance. Wit, humor, philosophy, and sentiment, all of a tender, womanly kind, pervade the various tales, sketches, and essays of which the book is composed, and cannot fail to render it what it was intended to be—something to amuse the "cool, delicious hours that relieve the summer exhaustion, and incline the mind to quiet reading."
THE BLOODSTONE. By Donald MacLeod, author of "Pynnhurst," "Life of Sir Walter Scott," etc. Pleasant, fascinating, and tenderly natural are the pictures of boy-hood and home-life in the earlier portions of this simple little story. What follows, "over the sea," abounds with thrilling scenes and touching, healthy sentiment. Purely English in its style, and eminently moral in its tone, this "new venture" of Mr. MacLeod will add fresh lustre to his already brilliant reputation.
From Evans & Brittan, New York:—
BOOK OF SONGS FOR CHILDREN. Illustrated to the heart's content of any child. A very beautiful collection of songs and very pretty engravings. Evans & Brittan deserve the thanks of everybody having children for the admirable works for the young they have published. They have two of the best writers of children's stories in this or any other country—Cousin Alice and Mrs. Manners. May they prosper! We can furnish the above for 75 cents in cloth, and in cloth, gilt extra, for $1. "The Schoolfellow for Boys and Girls," a magazine we have often praised, price $1 a year, is also published by the same firm.
From Evans & Brittan, New York, through J. W. Moore, Philadelphia:—
PRETTY POLL: A PARROT'S OWN HISTORY. Edited by the author of "The Amyott's Home," "Older and Wiser," etc. With illustrations by Harrison Weir. Quite an interesting little story, intended to be read by children, whom it cannot fail to please as well as instruct.
THE ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF SONGS FOR CHILDREN. The engravings from designs by Birket Foster. A very neat volume, prettily illustrated. Most of the songs in it are from the German. The airs to which many of them are adapted come evidently from the same source.
From G. P. Putnam & Co., 10 Park Place, New York:—
LYRICS FROM THE "WIDE, WIDE WORLD." The words by W. H. Bellamy. The music by C. W. Glover. None of the numerous readers of the "Wide, Wide World" should be without this beautiful volume.
A DAY IN THE CRYSTAL PALACE. This work may be termed a memento of the Crystal Palace. It is a beautiful book, containing the finest of the specimens of statuary, and other articles of special interest in the Palace. The engravings are amongst the finest specimens we have ever seen, and the whole work reflects great credit on its able author, W. C. Richards, A. M.
From Garrett & Co., New York, through T. B. Peterson, Philadelphia:—
SCENES IN THE LIFE OF AN ACTOR. This work is compiled from the journals, letters, and memoranda of the late Yankee Hill. The illustrations are original. Poor Hill! we knew him well. "He was the noblest Yankee of them all." The journal is very amusing, and gives the eventful and amusing scenes in the life of an actor with great truth. There are many side-splitting scenes in the "Life," reminiscences of the great "stars" of the day, and amusing scenes with some of the lesser lights. In fact, it is one of the most amusing books we have ever read.
From Ticknor, Reed, & Fields, Boston, through W. P. Hazard, Philadelphia:—
HUFELAND'S ART OF PROLONGING LIFE. Edited by Erasmus Wilson, F. R. S. Our everyday observation is conclusive of the fact that the art of shortening existence is one with which but few are unacquainted; yet the majority of men have the desire, if they do not act upon it, to add to the number of the days of their earthly pilgrimage. For such the philosophic Hufeland, at one time professor of medicine in the University of Jena, has prepared the little volume under notice. Stored with valuable facts and hints, and sound advice, which, if attended to, must inevitably contribute towards health and longevity, the work will, we hope, soon become as popular here as it has long since been in Germany.
From James Munroe & Co., Boston and Cambridge:—
LUCY HERBERT; or, the Little Girl who would have an Education. By Estelle. With eight engravings. This is a very pretty and simply told story of successful effort and self-discipline. The heroine, left an orphan and dependent on her own exertions at a very early age, resolves to carry out her mother's strong desire that her little Lucy should be an educated woman, fitted as well to occupy an elevated station as the more humble one which seemed her lot. Her perseverance in pursuing this object, and the happy termination of her labors, are related in an easy and agreeable style.
FRIENDS IN COUNCIL: a Series of Readings and Discourses thereon. In two volumes. The first volume of this work has long been a familiar and favorite book with us. To read it is like holding familiar converse with a man of a large, generous, and kindly heart, and with an intellect at once deep, comprehensive, and penetrating into the very pith and marrow of the subject discussed. Vexed political questions, and those connected with our social life and happiness, are viewed with thoughtful consideration and an evident desire to look on both sides with impartiality; and, mingled with this, there is a genial undercurrent of humor and fancy, which makes the book an attractive one even to those who generally avoid the abstruser subjects. The clear and simple, yet elegant style in which the work is written shows that the author is a man of high cultivation as well as of earnest thought.
NOVELS, SERIALS, PAMPHLETS, &c.
From T. B. Peterson, 102 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia: "First Love. A Story of Woman's Heart." By Eugene Sue. This is said to be the author's best book. Powerful, pathetic, and witty, by turns, and of exciting interest, it undoubtedly is; but we can discover no other merit in a hasty examination of its pages. Far more to be read and admired, if not so intricate in plot or so lively in narration, are the two companion volumes, from the same publishers, respectively entitled, "The Iron Rule; or, Tyranny in the Household," and "The Lady at Home; or, Happiness in the Household." When we state that those interesting, naturally written, lifelike fictions are from the pen of T. S. Arthur, no one need be told of their excellence. Happy will it be if the lessons, so pleasingly and so touchingly inculcated by them, take root in the hearts of many and bear their proper fruit—charity, peace, humanity, and love.
From Harper & Brothers, New York, through Lindsay & Blakiston, Philadelphia: "Charles Auchester. A Memorial." By E. Berger. This purports to be the autobiography of a musical artist, portraying, in a somewhat sentimental, though not unattractive style, the early impulses and maturer struggles of one bountifully endowed with the tender and childlike feelings which the world is pleased to allot to the softer types of genius.
From A. Hart (late Carey & Hart), Philadelphia: "Old England and New England, in a Series of Views taken on the Spot." By Alfred Bunn, author of "The Stage Before and Behind the Curtain." Two volumes of the London edition complete in one. We have received, with the publisher's respects, a cheap American reprint of this volume of travels through the United States. As containing anecdotes and sketches of sixty or seventy of our notabilities, it will create some stir and attract many readers. With the usual amount of cant in regard to the "spitting" propensities of our population, we find much amusing matter, and no little philosophic consideration for manners and customs undoubtedly strange and singular to a thorough-bred Englishman. Mr. Bunn, while peregrinating the States, must have encountered an unusual number of our "fast men," who seem to have passed upon him for truth many of the broadly-humorous, if not profane stories, the relation of which is one of their peculiar amusements.
From Phillips, Sampson, & Co., Boston, through T. B. Peterson, Philadelphia: "Hearts and Faces; or, Home-Life Unveiled." By Paul Creyton, author of "Father Brighthopes," etc. This is a charming little collection of domestic tales and sketches, making no pretensions to literary merit, but really possessing it in a high degree.
From J. S. Redfield, Clinton Hall, New York, through W. B. Zieber, Philadelphia: "The Yemassee; a Romance of Carolina." By W. Gilmore Simms, Esq., author of "The Partisan," "Guy Rivers," "Martin Faber," "Richard Hurdis," "Border Beagles," etc. This is a new and revised edition of a standard romance, of whose acknowledged merits it is not necessary for us to speak.
From H. Long & Brothers, 43 Ann Street, New York: "The Old Doctor; or, Stray Leaves from my Journal: being Sketches of the most interesting Reminiscences of a Retired Physician." A volume of well-told, thrilling, and instructive tales, the character of which is sufficiently shown by the title of the collection.
From D. Appleton & Co., 200 Broadway, New York, through C. G. Henderson & Co., Philadelphia: "The Flush Times of Alabama and Mississippi." A Series of Sketches. By Joseph G. Baldwin. Many of these sketches, which are mostly humorous, have already been admired and laughed at, as they appeared from time to time in the "Southern Literary Messenger."
From Lamport, Blakeman, & Low, 8 Park Place, New York, through H. C. Baird, Philadelphia: "The Ladies' Glee-Book: a Collection of Choice and Beautiful Glees, for three Female Voices; in English, French, and Italian. Designed for the Use of Classes, School Exhibitions, and to add to the Pleasures of the Home Circle." Translated, adapted, arranged, and composed, with an accompaniment for the piano-forte, by Henry C. Watson. Recommended by Wallace, Strakosch, and Maretzek.
From Garrett & Co., 18 Ann Street, New York, through T. B. Peterson, 102 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia: "Romantic Incidents in the Lives of the Queens of England." By J. P. Smith, Esq., author of "Stanfield Hall," "Amy Lawrence," etc. This is a deeply interesting volume of semi-historical sketches.
From Moore, Anderson, Wilstach, & Keys, Cincinnati, through Lippincott, Grambo, & Co., Philadelphia: "Mrs. Ben Darby; or, the Weal and Woe of Social Life." By A. Maria Collins. This is a graphic story of real life, from the pen of a western authoress, who, if we may judge by her present volume, is a lady of superior abilities.
From Hermann J. Meyer, 164 William Street, New York: Parts 8 and 9, Vol. 2, of "Meyer's Universum." Parts 6 and 7 (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 truly valuable and beautiful national publication eminently deserves a hearty national support.
Godey's Arm-Chair.
Thank you, ladies and gentlemen! and are happy to hear that you agree with us. We told you that our January number would far exceed in beauty and worth any other magazine, and your unanimous approval is grateful. Well, what think you of the February? The Evening Walk is a fine line engraving. But a word with you upon that subject. It is a portrait of a lady of our city whose least charm is her beauty. The graces of her mind and the kindness of her heart far exceed the beauty of her face. To know her is to love her.
We commence in this number "The Trials of a Needle-woman," by T. S. Arthur, one of Mr. Arthur's best stories. It will take some five or six numbers to complete it.
We publish in this number a Valentine story, and the supposed origin of St. Valentine's day. These two articles are for our subscribers. In return, we should be pleased to receive a Valentine from them, inclosing $3, $6, $10, or $20. It can be addressed as follows:—
We shall promptly answer the receipt of every such Valentine.
We cannot help it.—If our friends will send us such letters, we must publish them. Mrs. J. D. M., of New Jersey, writes: "Allow me to thank you for the pleasure your 'Lady's Book' has afforded me for the last TWELVE YEARS. As for the first sweet flowers of spring, so do we each month watch for and welcome thy agreeable messenger."
Mrs. M. F. W., of Mauch Chunk, writes: "Permit an old subscriber and admirer to congratulate you upon the great success and unusual esteem with which your efforts have been met. I am sure you deserve and get the thanks of all the ladies for your untiring zeal in their behalf, and the gentlemen also owe you many thanks for the patterns to which they are indebted for many a pretty keepsake."
How Sad!—An editor writes us, and even in writing his sad condition is shown; not that the writing is bad, that is very good; but the words convey his desolation. "As yet I am a single man." What a world of expression there is in that "yet!" "Your 'Book' accompanies me occasionally on a visit to my female friends." Take it along with you, and, if that does not get you a wife, you may as well give it up.
The "Danbury Times" says: "While speaking of the 'Lady's Book' to a friend the other day, she remarked that she had taken it from the first number issued in July, 1830, and that there was nothing like it." We know two others who have taken it from January, 1831, within six months from the commencement. It is needless to add that such subscribers always pay regularly.
Since writing the above, we have received a letter from a lady in Virginia, inclosing her twenty-second year's subscription.
We clip the following from the "Philadelphia Inquirer," of this city:—
"American Stories.—American stories are becoming quite popular with the conductors of some of the foreign periodicals. We observe that two, viz., 'My Brother Tom,' and 'Marrying through Prudential Motives,' which appeared in 'Godey's Lady's Book' some time since, were soon after republished in England, without credit, and have more recently been republished in some of the New York papers as of foreign origin. Quite a compliment this to Godey and his contributors."
"My Grandmother's Bracelet," by Mrs. Hentz, a story that we published in 1844, is now revived, and is going the rounds of the press as a new story. No credit is given the "Lady's Book"—of course NOT.
Christ Healing the Sick.—We have a few copies of this splendid plate, printed on paper of a good size for framing, still for sale at 50 cents each.
We now print precisely 9800 copies more than we did this time last year, and we are anxious to make it up even 10,000. If all our subscribers would follow the suggestion made by the "Huntingdon Democrat," and many, we are proud to say, have already done what that paper suggests, we would soon have that other 200: "We are compelled to consider Mr. Godey the most successful intellectual caterer for the ladies in all magazine-dom, and all who agree with us (and all who take the 'Book' must), should each one get another subscriber to it, as a compliment to its enterprising publisher for his untiring efforts to please."
Covers by Mail.—We cannot send covers for binding by mail, as the Postmaster-General has decided that they must pay letter postage. Rather queer! when you can send the whole Book, cover and all, and only pay book or pamphlet postage. We can supply agents, and will send any ordered in their packages.
A lady writes us to know how she can receive her "Lady's Book" without being folded. She is the only subscriber in the place. Our answer is: Get another subscriber, and the "Book" will then be done up without being folded.
A lady, who sent us a club, writes as follows: "I extolled your inestimable 'Book'—and why should I not?—showed them the benefit to be derived from it, in order to induce them to subscribe, knowing, if they could be persuaded to do so for one year, that they could not be prevailed upon in future to be without so interesting and useful a book, especially a lady."
Editors turning Lecturers.—Graham and Fitzgerald. The former delivered a lecture before the Excelsior Temperance Circle of Honor, some days since, which did honor to his head and heart. The Circle have had the lecture printed, and we have read it with great satisfaction. Fitzgerald's lecture was upon music, and well he handled the subject. The audience were much pleased, and so much so that Mr. Fitzgerald has been solicited to repeat the lecture. He would be a card for the lyceums in want of a good lecturer.
La Pierre House.—We advise all our subscribers who visit this city to stop at the La Pierre House. It is situated on the widest street and highest part of the city. Messrs. Taber & Son are indefatigable in their efforts to please. Their table is admirable, and their "grand hops" are the most neatly managed affairs we have ever seen.
R. H. See & Co.'s New Book-Store, No. 106 Chestnut Street, is one of the neatest establishments in the city, with the most gentlemanly attendants. All the new publications will be found there; and great inducements are held out to subscribe for "Godey's Lady's Book" and "Graham's Magazine," in the shape of splendid premium plates of a large size, and most beautifully engraved. This is a great opportunity. Mr. See has also become one of the publishers of that old and favorite monthly, "Graham's Magazine."
We hope this extravagance will not extend to this country:—
"European Fashions.—Letters from Paris state that the extravagance in dress for the last winter will be outdone by the magnificence of the toilettes in preparation for the approaching season. Enormously expensive toilettes are not confined to the older members of society; the juvenile part of the beau-monde is loaded with velvets, embroideries, flounces, and feathers. As an instance of the vanity and extravagance of private families in Paris, we may cite an instance in which a baptismal dress of an infant has been prepared, of exquisite embroidery and lace, at an expense of eighteen thousand dollars. The establishment where these tiny articles were produced has been thronged with lady visitors, to see the rich and costly dress in which the little creature is to renounce the pomps and vanities of the world."
Jullien the celebrated, and his band, have been here, and we confess that we have never heard anything approaching them. Concert Hall was crowded every evening they played—and the repetition of the "Prima Donna Waltz," the "Katydid Polka," and the "American Quadrille," seemed more and more to please the delighted audience. Jullien himself is an admirable leader. He is devoid of affectation, although we were led to suppose he had a great deal of it. His leading is most judicious, using his baton no more than what seemed absolutely necessary, not thumping constantly, as we have seen other leaders do, seemingly with no other purpose than to call attention to themselves. He is ably represented in his out-door business by Dr. Joy and W. F. Brough, Esq.
Dempster, the delightful ballad-singer, has been with us once again. He always pleases. And, wherever he may go, we wish him great success, and commend him to the kind consideration of our friends of the press. They will find him a thorough, good-hearted gentleman.
Frankenstein's Panorama of Niagara.—This great exhibition of the most stupendous waterfall in the world, which has excited wonder and admiration for so many months in New York, is now at Concert hall, in this city. The brothers Frankenstein say, with a perfect enthusiasm, that the sight of it will remain like a vision of glory forever upon your memories—for,
"A thing of beauty is a joy forever."
This may by some be thought a high tone, but in these days of panoramas, it is necessary to speak emphatically, and they fear not the result, if you but see this work.
We extract from the Philadelphia "Evening Argus" a notice of a very powerfully written book:—
"'The Old Doctor' is the nom de plume of the author of a book bearing the same title, and filled with fragmentary sketches of various incidents that have actually occurred in the practice of the unknown physician who records them. The style is easy and pleasant, and the sketches—some twenty in number—possess a thrilling interest that will amply repay perusal. There are four superb illustrations, and the book will prove a valuable addition to the library or the centre-table. Since the publication of Dr. Warren's 'Diary of a Physician,' nothing of the kind has appeared that will vie, in point of interesting narrative, with these reminiscences of a retired physician. Physicians have opportunities for observation and for learning secret histories that never can be allowed to any one else, and the expositions of this book show how much stranger truth is than fiction. H. Long & Brother, 43 Ann St., are the publishers; and this volume is well entitled to take a front rank in the serial of family books which this house is engaged in publishing."
"We see that several of our bachelor brothers of the 'press gang' have taken up with Godey's offer to choose a wife for each of them from among the 'Filadelfy Gals.' We hope they are not all spoken for, and will put in our order. Friend Godey, you will please look us up one with rosy cheeks, not over five feet high, nor more than nineteen years old; and of good 'mettle.' One who can set type, and act as sub. in our office, when we are out, preferred. Have her ready by the first of the coming year, and we will call for her in person."
Friend "Argus," we would like you to call at once, for we have here now some of the finest specimens of ladies ever presented to an admiring public. But we do not claim them as Philadelphians. There are three ladies on exhibition here, the largest of which weighs 769 pounds, and the least, some 600. The youngest is about nineteen. Just the age you want, and if she can't set type now, she could soon learn. She is ready now for you.
The "Iowa Sentinel" says: "We have but one objection to Godey, and that is the devoting entire of his magazine to the ladies. However, it is just what it purports to be—a Lady's Book."
Now, we do not consider this an objection, but a compliment. We endeavor to please the ladies, and how gloriously have they responded to the appeal we made to them some few months since, and how from our heart we thank them! Still, friend Sentinel, look over each number of the "Book" and see if you cannot find enough to interest a gentleman. Read the article upon Artesian Wells.
John Ross Dix, Esq., has become one of the editors of the "Waverley Magazine," published in Boston. This gentleman and W. R. Lawrence, Esq., its old editor, between them are able to make the "Waverley Magazine" even better than it has been, if that were necessary.
"The Deserted Bride, and other Poems." By Geo. P. Morris.—A contemporary, in speaking of this work, says:
"Its splendid exterior, gay in gold and morocco, the finely executed portrait, by which the reader may see that the poet is no hard-featured wight, but has the impress of a noble soul upon his features, and the beautiful steel engravings, will attract the admirers of sumptuous books; but they will find their taste purified and elevated, and their hearts made better by the poems, which will cling to the memory as they are read like strains of bewitching music. Space does not permit us to point out our special favorites; but they may be found almost passim. We counsel all who have libraries or drawing-rooms to procure the volume as an ornament to be proud of; while those who have not, will find it a meet companion either in travel or seclusion."
It is a most beautiful work, and is a suitable volume either for a New Year or birthday present, and would be a beautiful Valentine to send to a lady.
From the "New York Spirit of the Times" we extract the following. It is an excellent book, that we can vouch for.
"The New Household Receipt Book; containing Maxims, Directions, and Specifics for Promoting Health, Comfort, and Improvement in the Homes of the People. Compiled from the best Authorities, with many Receipts never before collected." By Sarah Josepha Hale. This is a very useful book, and every housekeeper should have a copy. Young women just married, or about to be married, would do well to look into it, as much time may be saved and trouble avoided by attending to its instructions. Mrs. Hale must be exceedingly industrious, and if those masculine feminines who go prating about "Women's Rights" would employ themselves as usefully and virtuously, they would, like her, have the thanks of the women of the world, and be respected by the men of the world. Published by Long & Brother, 43 Ann St.
The "Florist and Horticultural Journal" continues to come to us elegantly illustrated, and containing useful and well-written articles on all that relates to fruits, flowers, and vegetables. Each number contains a beautifully colored plate of some new or rare plant. Some of the engravings are executed in Europe. It is published by H. C. Hanson, at $2 per annum.
"The Saturday Evening Mail." Geo. R. Graham, editor; R. H. See, publisher.—Graham in a new character—editor of a weekly newspaper. Won't he make the old fogies of the press mind their P's and Q's! Already has the "Mail" assumed its place among those of a "large circulation." It is a splendid quarto, beautifully illustrated, and most ably edited.
We ask attention to our new work, "How to Make a Dress." It is by our Fashion Editor, and we think it will be useful to every one of our lady subscribers. Orders for materials of all kinds, jewelry, patterns, etc. etc., will be attended to, by inclosing a remittance to L. A. Godey, Philadelphia.
T. S. Arthur's Home Magazine.—This invaluable monthly comes to us, as usual, richly freighted with literary gems and treasures. In our estimation, it stands in the first rank of our periodical literature. It is conducted with ability and taste, and presents a well-selected variety of choice reading, in which are mingled the grave and the gay, the solid and the less weighty, with a felicity seldom obtained in works of this character. It requires a rare discrimination and a still more rare combination of the moral and literary element to make a magazine what it ought to be—what the high interests of society and the family demand it should be—what a Christian parent would feel a pleasure in putting into the hands of his children. But such, we are happy to say, in our opinion, is the "Home Magazine." The Little Colporteur story of Arthur in this number, is worth, for its touching Christian simplicity and its power to awaken and enliven the better feelings of the heart, the price of the work for a year many times told. May he write many such Christian parables! It is safe copying the Great Master here. We warmly commend the "Home Magazine" to all our friends as a cheap, but valuable magazine, and one every way worthy of their confidence and patronage.—Central New Yorker.
Arthur's Home Gazette.—We give to this journal our meed of praise, it being one of the best, if not the very best weekly paper published. It is a paper which no one, possessing even a spark of goodness, can attentively read without being benefited by it. The public should in all cases show a preference for such papers. Parents, especially, in addition to the best daily paper they can procure, should supply their families with two or three of the best weeklies; and we would most cordially recommend "Arthur's Home Gazette" as one of the number. Money thus spent would be very profitably invested.—Christian Banner, Fredericksburg, Va.
No. 3 of our "Splendid Gallery of Engravings" is now ready. See advertisement on cover.
The "Boston Post" says that "a young man, a member of an Evangelical church," advertises in a New York paper for board "in a pious family, where his Christian example would be considered a compensation."
Rapp's Gold Pens.—We have received orders for more than one hundred of these pens. We repeat the terms, and also our hearty assurance that they are the best gold pens we have ever used. Price of pens, condor size, with a holder, $6; in a silver case, $7; swan-quill size, with double extension silver cases, $4; goose-quill size, suitable for ladies, with holders, as above, $3.
Moore, the poet, always had an eye to, we were going to say, dollars and cents; but pounds, shilling, and pence would be more appropriate:—
"I have been passing three days with the Duchess of Kent and our little future Queen at Earl Stoke Park, and we had a great deal of music. The duchess sang some of my melodies with me better than I ever heard them performed. I promised to send her some of the songs of mine she most liked, and I should be glad if you would get them bound together (not too expensively) for me to present to her. They are as follows: Meeting of Ships—Indian Boat—The Evening Gun—Say, what shall be our Sport, (can you detach this from the Nationals?)—Keep your tears for me—The Watchman—I love but thee (beginning 'If after all')—Reason and Folly and Beauty. She has promised me copies of some very pretty German things she sang."
THE SCOTCH PIPER.
Draw a design upon cardboard, similar to the annexed engraving. Then cut it out neatly with a pair of scissors, and gum a piece of black cloth or velvet over the part intended as the cap; attach two pieces of China ribbon to the side of the cap, and gild or paint the epaulettes. Sew a small band of tape or webbing to the back part of the kilt, large enough to allow the two forefingers to pass through it; and when this is done, gum a portion of tartan over the lower part of the design, so as to represent the kilt, and otherwise ornament the figure so that it may represent a Highland piper.
If the whole figure is only intended to be painted, the band at the back of the kilt must be glued on instead of sewing it. Thus far the figure is complete, and you must now make the boots, which may be easily done from a piece of plaid ribbon or stuff, and some black cloth, leather, or velvet. Take care that they are large enough to admit the tips of your fingers at the tops, which should be ornamented with some strips of China ribbon of various colors. The figure is now finished.
To make the piper dance, introduce the two forefingers of the right hand through the bands, at the back of the kilt, so that the knuckles only are seen; then place the boots upon the tips of the fingers, and as the back of the hand and other fingers are concealed, the Scotchman may be made to dance by moving the fingers in such a manner that the knuckles are bent during the performance.
This forms a very amusing trifle for children.
We will furnish any of the following from the establishment of Mrs. Suplee, the originator of this style of patterns. But few persons can imagine how complete they are in every respect, fit, trimming, &c. At a little distance, they look like the real garment. The stock and variety of patterns for ladies' dresses, cloaks, mantillas, sacks, sleeves, and every article of ladies' and children's wear, are unequalled in the United States. Every new design from Paris and London is regularly received, so that persons wishing something new can always be supplied. The patterns are cut in tissue paper, and trimmed as the article is made.
Cloaks, Mantillas, Dress Bodies, Sleeves, Basques, Full Dress, Children's Dresses, Basques, Sacks, and Aprons, Boys' Jackets and Pants.
In ordering patterns, please say if for ladies or children.
Address FASHION EDITOR,
Care of "Godey's Lady's Book," Phila.
PHILADELPHIA AGENCY.
"Mary Vale."—It may be interesting to this lady to know that her story of "Marrying through Prudential Motives" has been copied from the "Lady's Book" for March, 1853, in two of the English magazines, recopied into the New York "Albion," that professes to give nothing but the cream of the English magazines, credited to an English magazine; and now, being an English story, will no doubt be published by half the papers in the United States. So much for the British stamp.
"Nannie" is informed that MSS. for publishing must only be written on one side of the paper, as plainly as possible, done up neatly in an envelope, sealed, and postage paid. MSS. always come to hand. We have never lost one through the mails. To her other question, we have repeatedly asked of our book publishers to name their price, but they will not study their own interests enough to do it. We could sell thrice as many books for them if they would attend to it. In London, the price of the work is invariably mentioned in the advertisement.
"A. L. H."—Sent your box by Adams's Express. Wrote by mail and inclosed receipt.
"G. L. M."—Sent cloak pattern by mail on the 16th.
"H. S."—We furnish any of Mrs. Suplee's patterns.
"M. A. D."—Sent cloak pattern by mail on 25th.
"N. B. D."—Jefferson's, or Mathias's, or Sutherland's Manual.
"J. S."—Sent pattern by mail on 12th.
"Mrs. S. J. F."—Sent your patterns by mail on 30th.
"Mrs. S. M. B."—Sent your articles by mail on 3d.
"W. G."—Sent your Rapp pencil on the 6th.
"M. N."—Sent patterns by mail on 7th.
"E. C. H."—Answered yours about the polish on 5th.
"F. M. B."—Sent the silk on the 6th.
"J. H.," New York.—Will please mention what particular one she wants explained. The different artists that compose the work use different terms, and what will explain one will not another.
"C. V. S."—Sent your order by Kinsley's Express on the 7th.
"Mrs. C. E. S."—Sent your patterns on the 9th.
"H. S."—Sent your patterns on the 7th.
"H. B. S."—Sent ear-rings on the 9th.
"F. L. K."—Will please accept our thanks for the pattern for "muslin flouncing." It is very pretty, and shall be engraved. We will be pleased to receive any original designs from our subscribers for any kind of fancy work.
"Miss L. J. T."—Sent your handkerchief by mail on 9th.
"Mrs. R. F. L."—Sent your pattern by mail on 10th.
"L. J."—Sent the Talma by Adams & Co.'s Express, and sent you their receipt.
"Mrs. A. E. S."—Sent pattern on the 13th.
No orders attended to unless the cash accompanies it.
All persons requiring answers by mail must send a post-office stamp.
The Borrower's Department.
"The wicked borroweth and payeth not again."
The "Wadesboro' Argus" says: "We have been lending the 'Book' for the last year or two; but Godey positively forbids it, and we will have to refuse it to borrowers. We are now making up a club for the work for next year, and ask those whom we have been supplying the present year to send us their names with two dollars, and we will see that they have the 'Book' supplied in their own names for the next twelve months."
Will one of these borrowers subscribe? Doubtful. But we shall see.
Letter from a Lady.—"I am trying to raise a large club here. Our only trouble is from borrowers. During my absence in the country this past summer, the whole of last year's numbers were taken out of the house, and two or three of them were never returned. I have come to the determination, as New Year is a time to make good resolutions, one of mine shall be not to lend 'Godey.' H."
"Your 'Book' is very popular; but many of your subscribers wish that it was more popular, at least enough so to cause those who borrow to subscribe for themselves. Our copy generally goes round to a dozen families, the rightful owner receiving little or no benefit from it; for, by the time it is returned, it is so defaced that we can scarcely recognize it. J. D. M."
Chemistry for Youth.
HEAT, LIGHT, AND FLAME.
Loco-foco Matches, etc.—The oxygenated or chlorate matches are first dipped in melted sulphur, and then tipped with a paste made of chlorate of potass, sulphur, and sugar, mixed with gum-water, and colored with vermilion; frankincense and camphor are sometimes mixed with the composition, and the wood of the match is pencil cedar, so that a fragrant odor is diffused from the matches in burning. To obtain light, a match is very lightly dipped in a bottle containing a little asbestos soaked in oil of vitriol.
Lucifers consist of chips of wood tipped with a paste of chlorate of potass mixed with sulphuret of antimony, starch, and gum-water; when a match is pinched between the folds of glass-paper and suddenly drawn out, a light is instantly obtained.
Prometheans consist of small rows of waxed paper, in one end of which is a minute quantity of vitriol, in a glass bulb, sealed up and surrounded with chlorate of potass; when the end thus prepared is pressed so as to break the bulb, the vitriol comes in contact with the composition, and produces light instantly.
Loco-foco Matches are made of a compound of phosphorus, rice-flour, &c., colored with any suitable article.
Phosphoric Fire-bottle.—Take a common brimstone match, introduce its point into a bottle containing oxide of phosphorus so as to cause a minute quantity of it to adhere to it; if the match be then rubbed on a common bottle cork, it instantly takes fire; care should be taken not to use the same match immediately, or while still hot, as it would inevitably set fire to the oxide of phosphorus in the bottle. The phosphoric fire-bottle may be prepared in the following manner: Take a small phial of very thin glass, heat it gradually in a ladleful of sand, and introduce into it a few grains of phosphorus; let the phial be then left undisturbed for a few minutes, and proceed in this manner until the phial is full; or, put a little phosphorus into a small phial; heat the phial in a ladleful of sand, and when the phosphorus is melted, turn it round, so that the phosphorus may adhere to the sides of the phial; and then cork the phial closely.
A Combustible Body set on Fire by Water.—Fill a saucer nearly full of water, and drop into it a small piece of potassium the size of a pepper-corn (about two grains); the potassium will instantly become red-hot and dart from one side of the saucer to the other, and burn vividly on the surface of the water.
Curious Experiment.—Procure three basins, and put water of the temperature of thirty-three degrees into one basin, of fifty degrees into another, and of a hundred degrees into the third; then plunge one hand into the water of thirty-three degrees, and the other into that of a hundred degrees, and when they have both remained a few seconds, withdraw them, and plunge both hands into the water of fifty degrees: the one which was before in warm water will now feel cold, and the one that was in the cold water will feel warm.
Vivid Production of Fire.—Take three parts by weight of flowers of sulphur, and eight parts of copper filings, mix them intimately together, and put the mixture into a large test-tube, or small glass matrass. If the tube be now placed upon red-hot coals, the mass begins to swell, and a small ignited spark becomes first visible at the bottom, which rapidly increases in size, and lastly, the whole mass glows and exhibits a brilliant combustion without the access of air or oxygen gas.
The Fiery Flash.—Pour iron filings upon the flame of a candle, from a sheet of paper, about eight or ten inches above it; as they descend into the flame, they will enter into a very vivid scintillating combustion.
Spirits of Wine.—Put a small quantity of spirits of wine into a glass, and put a halfpenny or shilling in with it; then direct the rays of the sun, by means of a burning glass, upon the coin, and in a short time it will become so hot as to inflame the spirits.
Enigmas.
ANSWERS TO ENIGMAS IN JANUARY NUMBER.
1. Inside. 2. Air. 3. Mal-ice.
ENIGMAS.
4.
A museum am I, and my pictures so true
That their merits are never disputed by you
Such graphic expression each sketch must reveal
Of all I present to engage the ideal:
My collection abounds in so varied a stock
(Some sure to enchant, while some others may shock)
Of portraits and landscapes, and scenes of the past—
Historic and classic; some others are cast
In chimerical moulds, and stand out to the sight
In colors of fancy illusively bright.
Some are visions of dreams that appeal to the sense
With a mystical fervor, so fair their pretence.
Now this Exhibition at will you may view,
For you'll aye find it open and gratis to you:
Though you'll enter it solus, your gaze none can share,
So it's not like the show in Trafalgar-square.
5.
My first "to know" might signify;
My second "melody" imply;
My third must "fashionable" mean;
And in my whole much fashion's seen.
6.
More truly valuable am I,
As visibly is shown,
Than California's gold could buy—
Which you at sight must own.
Of one alone, or else of three,
You'll fabricate my name;
Then, even backwards spelling me,
You'll find me still the same.
7.
As introductory, I'll state,
We are a family of eight,
Fluent of speech as e'en are you,
And quite as comprehensive, too.
Our character is somewhat strange—
One-half of us are apt to change
In constitution frequently,
As you continually may see:
Although the other four, 'tis plain,
Unalter'd always must remain;
And in their own primeval state,
Your constant exigence await.
Collectively, our family
With reasoning humanity
Must o'er retain the first degree.
8.
My first is what you all must share
So long as you respire the air;
And when deceased, survivors will
Your proper share attribute still.
My second's what I think you'd do
Whene'er my first might do so too.
Then let the two united be,
To form what you'd not wish to see.
Receipts, &c.
THE SICK ROOM AND NURSERY.
Improved Mode of Administering Senna.—Take of senna three drachms; lesser cardamom-seeds, husked and bruised, half a drachm; boiling water, as much as will yield a filtered infusion of six ounces. Digest for an hour, and filter when cold. This is a well-contrived purgative infusion, the aromatic correcting the drastic efforts of the senna. It is of advantage that it should be used freshly prepared, as it is apt to spoil very quickly.
Warm Water.—Warm water is preferable to cold water, as a drink to persons who are subject to dyspeptic and bilious complaints, and it may be taken more freely than cold water, and consequently answers better as a diluent for carrying off bile, and removing obstructions in the urinary secretion in cases of stone and gravel. When water of a temperature equal to that of the human body is used for drink, it proves considerably stimulant, and is particularly suited to dyspeptic, bilious, gouty, and chlorotic subjects.
Barley-water.—To make good barley-water, choose the best pearl-barley, boil it for a few minutes, then throw away the water and add fresh, in the proportion of a pint to an ounce of barley. Boil quickly, and then let it simmer for an hour; strain and sweeten; flavor with lemon, or according to taste. It is a very mucilaginous drink, and beneficial to invalids.
Advantages of Cleanliness.—Health and strength cannot be long continued unless the skin, all the skin, is washed frequently with a sponge or other means. Every morning is best, after which the skin should be rubbed very well with a rough cloth. This is the most certain way of preventing cold, and a little substitute for exercise, as it brings blood to the surface, and causes it to circulate well through the fine capillary vessels. Labor produces this circulation naturally. The insensible perspiration cannot escape well if the skin is not clean, as the pores get choked up. It is said that in health about half the aliment we take passes out through the skin.
Antidote to Arsenic.—Magnesia is an antidote to arsenic, equally efficacious with peroxide of iron, and preferable to it, inasmuch as it is completely innocuous in almost any quantity, and can be procured in any form.
Remedy for Toothache.—Take of alum, in powder, two drachms; spirit of nitre, seven drachms. Mix, and apply it to the teeth.
To Assist the Hearing of Elderly Persons when Suffering from Deafness.—Deafness is usually accompanied with confused sounds, and noises of various kinds in the inside of the ear itself; in such cases, insert a piece of cotton wool, on which a very little oil of cloves or cinnamon has been dropped.
Rheumatic Embrocation.—Take of spirit of turpentine, spirit of hartshorn, liquid opodeldoc, of each one ounce.
DOMESTIC RECEIPTS.
CUSTARDS, CREAMS, JELLIES, AND BLANC MANGE.
[Second article.]
Common Baked Custard.—Mix a quart of new milk with eight well-beaten eggs, strain the mixture through a fine sieve, and sweeten it with from five to eight ounces of sugar, according to the taste; add a small pinch of salt, and pour the custard into a deep dish, with or without a lining or rim of paste; grate nutmeg or lemon rind over the top, and bake it in a very slow oven from twenty to thirty minutes, or longer, should it not be firm in the centre. A custard, if well made, and properly baked, will be quite smooth when cut, without the honey-combed appearance which a hot oven gives; and there will be no whey in the dish. New milk, one quart; eggs, eight; sugar, five to eight oz.; salt, one-quarter salt-spoonful; nutmeg or lemon-grate; baked, slow oven, twenty to thirty minutes, or more.
Chocolate Custards.—Dissolve gently by the side of the fire an ounce and a half of the best chocolate in rather more than a wineglassful of water, and then boil it until it is perfectly smooth; mix with it a pint of milk well flavored with lemon-peel or vanilla, and two ounces of fine sugar, and when the whole boils, stir to it five well-beaten eggs that have been strained. Put the custard into a jar or jug, set it into a pan of boiling water, and stir it without ceasing until it is thick. Do not put it into glasses or a dish till nearly or quite cold. These, as well as all other custards, are infinitely finer when made with the yolks only of the eggs.
Rice Custards without Cream.—Take one teaspoonful of rice flour, a pint of new milk, the yolks of three eggs, sugar to your liking; mix the rice very smooth, and stir it, with the eggs, into the boiling milk. An excellent dish for children.
A finer Baked Custard.—Boil together gently, for five minutes, a pint and a half of new milk, a few grains of salt, the very thin rind of a lemon, and six ounces of loaf sugar; stir these boiling, but very gradually, to the well-beaten yolks of ten fresh eggs, and the whites of four; strain the mixture, and add to it half a pint of good cream; let it cool, and then flavor it with a few spoonfuls of brandy or a little ratafia; finish and bake it by the directions given for the common custard above; or pour it into small well-buttered cups, and bake it very slowly from ten to twelve minutes.
Apple or Gooseberry Souffle.—Scald and sweeten the fruit, beat it through a sieve, and put it into a tart dish. When cold, pour a rich custard over it, about two inches deep; whip the whites of the eggs, of which the custard was made, to a snow, and lay it in small rough pieces on the custard; sift fine sugar over, and put it into a slack oven for a short time. It will make an exceedingly pretty dish.
Gooseberry-fool.—Put the fruit into a stone jar, with some good Lisbon sugar; set the jar on a stove, or in a saucepan of water over the fire; if the former, a large spoonful of water should be added to the fruit. When it is done enough to pulp, press it through a cullender; have ready a teacupful of new milk and the same quantity of raw cream boiled together, and left to be cold; then sweeten pretty well with fine sugar, and mix the pulp by degrees with it. Or:—Mix equal proportion of gooseberry pulp and custard.
Apple-fool may be made the same as gooseberry, except that when stewed the apples should be peeled and pulped.
French Flummery.—Boil one ounce and a half of isinglass in a pint and a half of cream for ten minutes, stirring it well; sweeten it with loaf-sugar, flavor with two tablespoonfuls of orange-flower water, strain it into a deep dish.
Fruit Creams.—Take half an ounce of isinglass, dissolved in a little water, then put one pint of good cream, sweetened to the taste; boil it; when nearly cold, lay some apricot or raspberry jam on the bottom of a glass dish, and pour it over. This is most excellent.
Burnt Cream.—Set over the fire in a pan three ounces of sifted sugar, stir it, and when it browns, add a quart of cream, and two ounces of isinglass; boil and stir till the latter is dissolved, when sweeten it, and strain into moulds. Or, this cream may be made by boiling it without sugar, adding the yolks of four eggs, sweetening and sifting over it in a dish loaf-sugar, to be browned with a salamander.
Lemon Cream.—Take a pint of cream, add the zest of a lemon rubbed on sugar; whip it well; add sugar and lemon-juice to palate. Have half an ounce of isinglass dissolved and cool; when the cream is thick, which it will be when the lemon-juice is added, pour in the isinglass, and immediately mould it. A smaller quantity of isinglass may suffice, but that depends on the thickness of the cream. Other flavors may be used, as orange, almond, maraschino. Or:—Take a pint of thick cream, and put to it the yolks of two eggs well beaten, 4 oz. of fine sugar, and the thin rind of a lemon; boil it up, then stir it till almost cold; put the juice of a lemon in a dish or bowl, and pour the cream upon it, stirring it till quite cold.
Raspberry Cream.—Put six ounces of raspberry jam to a quart of cream, pulp it through a lawn sieve, add to it the juice of a lemon and a little sugar, and whisk it till thick. Serve it in a dish or glasses.
Strawberry Cream.—Put six ounces of strawberry jam with a pint of cream through a sieve, add to it the juice of a lemon, whisk it fast at the edge of a dish, lay the froth on a sieve, add a little more juice of lemon, and when no more froth will rise, put the cream into a dish, or into glasses, and place the froth upon it, well drained.
The Toilet.
Celebrated Honey Almond Paste.—Take honey, one pound; white bitter paste, one pound; expressed oil of bitter almonds, two pounds; yolks of eggs, five. Heat the honey, strain, then add the bitter paste, knead well together, and, lastly, add the eggs and oil in alternate portions.
Invaluable Ointment.—Obtain a pint of real cream, let it simmer over the fire, or on the side, till it resembles butter, and forms a thick oily substance, which may be used as ointment for fresh or old wounds, cracked lips or hands.
Chapped Hands.—Mix a quarter of a pound of unsalted hog's-lard, which should be washed first in water and then in rose-water, with the yolk of a new-laid egg and a large spoonful of honey. Add to this as much fine oatmeal or almond paste as will make the whole into a paste, and apply this after washing the hands.
To make Wash-balls.—Take two pounds of new white soap, and shave thin into a teacupful of rose-water, pouring in as much boiling water as will soften it. Put into a pipkin a pint of sweet oil, fourpennyworth of oil of almonds, half a pound of spermaceti, and set all over the fire till dissolved; then add the soap, and half a pound of camphor that has been first reduced to powder by rubbing it in a mortar with a few drops of spirit of wine or lavender-water. Boil ten minutes; then pour it into a basin, and stir till it is quite thick enough to roll up into hard balls.
To Clean White Veils.—Put the veil in a solution of white soap, and let it simmer a quarter of an hour; squeeze it in some warm water and soap till quite clean. Rinse it from soap, and then in clean cold water, in which is a drop of liquid blue; then pour boiling water on a teaspoonful of starch, run the veil through this, and clear it well by clapping it. Afterwards pin it out, keeping the edges straight and even.
