A SUMMARY OF Umerican & Foreign Literature. Vol. VIII. NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 16, 1874. FOREIGN LITERARY INTELLIGENCE. [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] LONDON, October 27, 1874. THE shortening days, foggy skies, and muddy streets render palpable to every one the fact that London is about to resume its activity as the great scene and centre of the intellectual energy of the kingdom. This unquestionable position is exemplified in the preparation and supply of new books, as well as in other departments, artistic, theatrical, political, etc. The programmes of the various publishing houses are now being put forth, showing the prospects of the coming season; and while there is little of consequence that is absolutely new among the announcements, they encourage a hope of the speedy appearance of many books hitherto only indefinitely promised. In the meantime a few works are brought out as a sample of the coming literary harvest. Few of these will attract greater attention both in England and America, than the posthumous writings of John Stuart Mill, the Essays on Nature, Utility of Religion, and Theism, in 1 vol., 8vo. They may, probably, be looked upon as his last utterances, as there is no hint given by the editor (Miss Helen Taylor,) of any further publication from his papers. The Essays now appear under different conditions. The first and second were written nearly twenty years since, and were elaborated with his usual care by the author. The third, and in many respects the most important, is the product of his latest years, and never received his final revision. Critics have already pounced eagerly No. 2. upon the presumed differences between the writer's method of philosophizing in them, and in his earlier and now standard works. It is certain, however, that Mr. Mill regarded the results arrived at as consistent with his whole line of thought. The Essays will be read with respect and attention, even by those who disagree with them, as expressive of the earnest and deep-seated convictions of one of the most acute minds known among men in modern times, while employed in the consideration of the most important subjects open to the scrutiny of mankind. It is remarkable that the striking parallel between the later experience of both Auguste Comte and of John Stuart Mill has not been more frequently noticed-how, with each philosopher, female influence irresistibly intruded, coloring the "dry light" of philosophy with the warm tints of the affections so deeply that many of their earlier disciples find a difficulty in harmonizing the lessons to be drawn from their teachings at the different periods of their career. A resemblance may be noted between the speculations of Mill and those of an author now much read, W. R. Greg, whose Enigmas of Life discusses many of the topics treated of in these posthumous Essays in the same spirit, though with a less rigorous philosophic method. A work of more popular character at this moment competes for the popular attention. The Greville Memoirs: A Journal of the Reigns of Kings George the Fourth and King William the Fourth, 1820-37, just published under the editorship of Mr. Henry Reeve, in three volumes, 8vo. It forms a valuable contribution towards a true knowledge of recent English history, pleasing those who are fond of court scandal and a certain range of literary gossip, as well as the more dignified class whose interest centers in the varying fates of Ministers and the shifting changes of cabinets. The author, Mr. Charles Greville, as clerk of the Privy Councils for forty years or more, was so near the springs of political action that his daily record of what passed before his eyes must needs possess great value. His social position as a nephew of the Duke of Portland, and allied to other aristocratic families, was high, and his culture remarkable for a man who disclaims all scholarship and frequently laments lost opportunities of mental improvement. He writes with an energy and directness that many professed authors might envy. His acquaintance with literary men was gained chiefly through the Holland House coterie, and the well-known names of Luttrell, Rogers, Allan, Moore, Mackintosh, and others reappear in these pages, generally accompanied by characteristic traits and bonmots, usually new and always interesting. The per manent and superior attraction of literature as compared with politics is well exemplified in this diary. The greater part of it is composed of long and tedious discussions, such as, "Did Canning intrigue with the Whigs?" "Would the Duke of Wellington have brought forward Reform ?" etc., etc., subjects that now only send the reader to sleep. But when Macaulay tells Mr. Greville that he has read Sir Charles Grandison through, fifteen times, he brightens up. There is a fact that interests every one and is of enduring significance. There is not much in the work to change the general current opinion already formed of the prominent men of the last generation in England, though Earl Gray is portrayed in colors less bright than those that were lavished on him during the hey-day of the Reform excitement, and the force of character afterwards displayed by Lord Palmerston, (who flowered late), fails to meet with any prophetic anticipation. Much against his will the amazing powers of Brougham continually carry away Mr. Greville to admiration, and in Canning and Brougham he recognises the only men of genius who have mingled in public affairs during the present century. To these it is probable the next age may add the name of Disraeli, and then as now, looking at what they have accomplished, how obvious will be the truth of that old remark, how superior to that heaven-born flame for all practical purposes is the plain steady administrative talent of a resolute man of business like Sir Robert Peel! Only young men can hope to see the conclusion of Mr. Greville's Diaries, as they touch too nearly upon living men and interests to be given to the public during the present genera tion. ular sovereignity, where eloquence is so much studied, and naturally possesses so great a value, the Speeches of Edward Lord Lytton cannot fail to meet with appreciation. Now as of old the public refuse to recognize the greatness of one man in various spheres, and Lord Lytton's eminence, as a man of letters, was so marked, that he never received his just dues of admiration for the talent displayed in a political career of long extent and success sufficient to satisfy reasonable expectations. As a statesman his name is connected with many of the forward movements in the right track, that took place during his parliamentary life-as the abolition of the stamp duty on newspapers, the regulation and extension of literary copyright, and the extinction of slavery. It is the deliberate opinion, not only of his son, (the editor of the collection,) but of the best critics, that these speeches entitle their author to a place among the best orators of his day, while they exhibit him in higher personal relations than can be drawn from his merely literary works, as full of noble impulses, sensitive in honor, impatient of oppression, and a hater of injustice. A memoir of the present Lord Lytton is intended as a political biography. In it he refers to a more complete life as a purpose only to be achieved after many years' labor and preparation. It is remarkable that the conscientious love and power of work so conspicuous in the late lord is inherited by his son, though chiefly known by his numerous poetical works (as Owen Meredith, etc.), he has in his capacity of Secretary of Legation at Paris, lately produced a report of the commercial statistic, etc., of France, said to be remarkable for its thoroughness and ability. To an author of rising reputation, Mr. John Morley, we owe a work of considerable value, published with the bare and unattrac ive title, On Compromise. Those who are tempted to examine it will find a vigorous and energetic protest against the hollowness of the age and society in general; the vials of the author's wrath are poured out on the million who are indifferent to abstract truth, and follow in their conduct the baser suggestions of expediency; who take no trouble to form correct ideas on theological and moral questions; and who, if by chance they reach a higher theoretic level than their fellows, dare not avow or act upon it, and allow themselves to pass current as believers in opinions they secretly hold in In a country like the United States, of pop- contempt. The book is eminently a suggestive one, and can scarcely be read without a fre- nard, in 2 vols.quent thoughtful pause. To those whom the calmer air of literature more attracts, may be recommended Characteristics of English Poets from Chaucer to Shirley, by William Minto. It is written on the plan of bringing out and distinguishing the individual, specific and peculiar qualities of each writerrather "what sort of man he was," than "how was he formed," the inquiry now so popular under the guidance of M. Taine. Indeed the French critic, with all his excellences, too often reminds one of Dr. Johnson's opinion of Bishop Hurd, as "one of those men who account for everything systematically; who, if it were the fashion to wear scarlet breeches, would tell you that, according to causes and effects, no other wear could at the time be chosen." Mr. Minto is already known by a thoughtful volume on English Prose Writers. His present work is the fullest manual of æsthetic criticism on the early English poets yet published; and, in his treatment of such hackneyed subjects as even Chaucer and Shakespeare, he shows how much may still be evolved by taste and judgment. All who are fond of gossip about old writers, old books, and old places in England, will find a real treat in The Life of Thomas Fuller, D.D., with Notices of his Books, his Kinsmen and his Friends, by J. E. Bayley; a large octavo, brimfull of pleasant things, and properly seasoned with portraits, views, autographs, etc. It is needless to say a word about Fuller himself; with no other writer, perhaps, do we seem to acquire so strong a personal intimacy from the perusal of his works; yet it is remarkable how short was his life (fifty-three years), how much he accomplished in it (six massive folios, besides twenty-seven smaller volumes), and how little now remains to attest his place among his contemporaries, or throw any light on his personal career, independently of his own writings. Not a single letter of Fuller's has ever come to light among the masses of MSS. still preserved in private and public libraries. Every extant fragment and scrap of information has been carefully sought for and preserved by the author, whose volume is the result of many years' study and research lovingly applied. -a book which would have been better if materials were more abundant-and Autobiography and other Memorials of Mrs. Gilbert (Ann Taylor), 2 vols., affording charming glimpses of the ever remarkable Taylor family of Ongar, and its most gifted member, the author of Natural History of Enthusiasm, etc. SCRIBNER, WELFORD & ARMSTRONG'S Messrs. SCRIBNER, WELFORD & ARMSTRONG will shortly issue their usual Holiday catalogue of specialties for the approaching season. Meanwhile the present number of the BookBUYER furnishes some indication of the works in fine bindings, etc., which have already begun to come in, and will afford the usual wide range for selection to all lovers of handsome books. STANLEY AND LIVINGSTONE. THOSE who are interested in the great African problem will value still more highly the account of Stanley's search for Livingstone, in its present form; the new edition, containing, as it does, a sketch of the life of the elder traveller, by the younger. The sketch, in fact, gives a sad completeness to Stanley's story-a story told with characteristic liveliness and vigor, and one which will be memorable in the annals of adventure and persistent pluck. A SET OF DR HOLLAND'S WORKS FOR $730. THE large sale of The Mistress of the Manse, and the high price realized by a set of Dr. Holland's works at the recent "Author's Carnival' in Buffalo, speak well for the enduring popularity of the author named. At the "Carnival" mentioned, a set of Dr. Holland's works bound in cloth and given by him, was set apart for presentation to the most popular clergyman in Buffalo. Admirers testified their regard for their favorites by paying ten cents per vote and were privileged to " 'repeat" as often as they chose. Seventy-three hundred ballots were cast, and the set of books named therefore realized to the Carnival SEVEN HUNDRED AND THIRTY DOLLARS. Rev. Mr. Van Bokelin, Rector of Trinity Church, Buffalo, was the Biographical literature is indeed now in favor, and among other recent specimens are The Life, Artistic, Literary, and Musical, of Samuel Lover, with Selections from his Unpublished Papers and Correspondence by Bayle Ber-successful candidate. Messrs. SCRIBNER, WELFORD & ARMSTRONG invite the attention of the reading public to their importaions of English Works. Their stock, which is by far the largest, the most varied and select in this country, omprises the most important works in every department of literature, as well as an extensive selection of the rest and most valuable books to be found in the English market. BULLETIN OF NEW BOOKS RECEIVED DURING THE PAST MONTH. The number of NEW BOOKS imported being often limited, orders for them are conidered open to be filled within FIVE WEEKS FROM RECEIPT, as that time is sufficient o replace them, if previously sold. OLD and SECOND-HAND BOOKS cannot be replaced ith equal certainty, but can generally be supplied within a moderate time. MEYER'S COMMENTARY ON THE NEW TESTAMENT. Cach volume in demy 8vo, price per vol........ ROMANS, Volume II. The following volumes just ready: ST. JOHN'S GOSPEL, Volume I. $300 Both of these are translated from editions quite recently published, of which early sheets were, by special rangement, supplied by the German publishers. The extreme care which has been given to the editing of these volumes will appear, the Publishers trust, their great accuracy, and this will be a feature of the whole series. It is evident that the value of the ommentary very much depends on minute accuracy. It is impossible that the same regularity can be maintained in the publication of Meyer as in the other series 'Messrs. Scribner, Welford & Armstrong. The care demanded prevents speed either in editing or printing; it in order to expedite the publication, the Publishers are happy to state that the Rev. Dr. Crombie, Professor Biblical Criticism in St. Andrew's University, has kindly agreed to be associated with Professor Dickson, and is accordingly edited the present volume on St. John's Gospel. It is hoped the other two volumes may be ady about next Spring. The previous issues of Meyer's Commentary comprise: GALATIANS, 1 vol. ROMANS, 1 vol. TOUR ROUND MY GARDEN.—Illustrated. TOUR ROUND MY GARDEN. Translated from the French by Alphonse Karr. Revised and edited by Rev. J. G. Wood. A fine new illustrated edition, with 117 exquisite wood cuts. extra cloth.... 1 thick square 8vo, in MY GARDEN, By SMEE.-A New Supply. Y GARDEN; ITS PLAN AND CULTURE, TOGETHER WITH A GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF ITS GEOLOGY, BOTANY, AND NATURAL HISTORY. BY ALFRED SMEE. 1 very handsome vol., royal 8vo, illustrated with one thousand two hundred and fifty engravings. Extra cloth, elegant style..... These books sent, post-paid, on receipt of the price, by Scribner, Welford & Armstrong, 654 Broadway, N. I. 8.00 New Book of Design, in Colors, for Decorators, Designers, Manufacturers, and Amateurs. PLANTS: Their Natural Growth and Ornamental Treatment. By F. EDWARD HULME, F.L.S., F. S. A., of Marlborough College, Author of "Plant Form." Large Imperial 4to, cloth extra, beveled boards... 10 *** This important work consists of forty-four plates, printed in colors, in fac-simile of original drawing made by the author. It shows how the common plants and flowers of the field may be used to produce endles variety of inventive form, for all manner of decorative purposes. The plates are accompanied by a careft treatise on the whole subject. AUNT LOUISA'S NEW QUARTO VOLUMES. 1. AUNT LOUISA'S ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS. With twenty-four original plates, printed in colors, by KRONHEIM, and descriptive letterpress. Demy 4to, cloth gilt........ 11. AUNT LOUISA'S BOOK OF DROLLERIES. 25 With numerous original pictures, printed in colors, with letterpress and musical accompaniment, etc. Cloth gilt. 111. AUNT LOUISA'S FAVORITE TOY BOOK. descriptions. Demy 4to, cloth gilt...... 25 With original plates, printed in colors, and full letterpress 28 AUNT LOUISA'S TOY BOOKS AND DROLLERIES. New Volumes. Uniform with the "Ten Little Niggers," each with colored plates, music, &c. Demy 4to, picture wrappers....... -The same, mounted on linen... 1. A FROG WHO WOULD A-WOOING GO. 2. NINE NIGGERS MORE. A sequel to "Ten Little Niggers." 3. THE TEN LITTLE SOLDIERS. AUNT LOUISA'S PICTURE PUZZLE ALPHABET. 4to, fine colored plates.. BURNS' POEMS.-The Chandos Edition. THE POETICAL WORKS OF ROBERT BURNS. Reprinted from the Best Edition, with explanatory and Glossarial Notes, Memoir, &c. 1 handsome vol., crown 8vo, extra cloth, gilt $3.75; or, in morocco, extra 8 € Uniform with the above, at same prices. CHANDOS LIBRARY, (New Vol.) MEMOIR OF BARTHOLOMEW FAIR. BY HENRY MORLEY. New and cheap edition. 1 vol., 16mo, with fac-simile drawings, engraved on wood. Extra cloth.... GOLDEN TREASURY OF THOUGHT. THE GOLDEN TREASURY OF THOUGHT. A Gathering of Quotations from the best ancient and modern Authors. By THEODORE TAYLOR. 1 thick vol., crown 8vo, extra cloth, gilt edges and side............. MUSES OF MAYFAIR. 17 30 THE MUSES OF MAYFAIR. Selections from Vers de Société of the Nineteenth Century. By H. CHOL- 30 |