 | Sketches |  |
WORKS
RECENTLY PUBLISHED BY KEY & BIDDLE,
No. 23, MINOR STREET.
MIRIAM, OR THE POWER OF TRUTH.
BY THE AUTHOR OF “INFLUENCE.”
This tale is professedly founded on an “anecdote, said to be a well-attested
fact, of an American Jew converted to Christianity by the death of his only
child, a beautiful girl, whom he had reared with no common care and affection.
She embraced the Christian faith unknown to her father, until with her dying
lips she confessed to him her apostacy from Judaism, giving him at the same
time a Testament, with a solemn injunction to believe in Jesus of Nazareth.”
This outline is ingeniously and skilfully filled up, and a tale of deep interest
is produced. There are many passages of deep pathos, and the argument for
Christianity adapted to the Jews, is happily sustained. We think the pleasure
and instruction which the book is calculated to afford, will well repay a perusal.
—The Presbyterian.
The style of writing in this volume is simple and beautiful, as the story is
affecting.—Boston Traveller.
The book has enough of fiction to enliven the fancy and gratify the curiosity
of youth, who might not otherwise read it; while it conveys lessons of piety,
and arguments for the man of understanding. We wish that many a lovely
Jewess could be persuaded to read “Miriam.”—The Philadelphian.
The work altogether deserves to stand high in the class of productions to
which it belongs.—Episcopal Recorder.
When we see a book which bears the impring of Key & Biddle, we are always
sure to see a handsome one. In this case, we can give as high praise to the
matter as we can to the mechanical execution.
“Influence” was one of the very best of that class of religious novels lately
so prevalent in England; and its gifted young author has even improved upon
herself, in this affecting and powerful story. She has taken that touching incident,
well known through the medium of our tracts, of a Jewish maiden who,
on her dying bed, won over her reluctant father to the religion of the Jesus he
despised.
It was a subject too good to be left unimproved, and in “Miriam” has been
embalmed, one of the most beautiful and delicate religious narratives we have
ever read. No one whose feelings and sympathies are uncorrupted, can peruse
this touching tale, without feeling a strong interest, and that sympathy which
will sometimes melt them into tears. Upon the publication of Miriam in London, it quickly ran through three editions, and we doubt not it will attain a
co-extensive popularity here, where there is more freshness of the feelings, and
a more deeply imbued spirit of rational piety, to appreciate the fine tone of religious
spirit which pervades it.—N. Y. Com. Adv.
AIDS TO MENTAL DEVELOPMENT, or Hints to Parents.
Being a System of Mental and Moral Instruction, exemplified in
Conversations between a Mother and her Children, with an Address
to Mothers. By a Lady of Philadelphia.
A MANUAL ON THE SABBATH; embracing a consideration
of its Perpetual Obligation, Change of Day, Utility and Duties.
By John Holmes Agnew, Professor of Languages, Washington College,
Washington, Pa. With an Introductory Essay, by Dr. Miller,
of Princeton, N. J.
COUNSELS FROM THE AGED TO THE YOUNG. By
Dr. Alexander.
THE PHILOSOPHY OF A FUTURE STATE. By Thomas
Dick, author of the Christian Philosopher, &c.
TODD'S JOHNSON'S DICTIONARY OF THE ENGLISH
LANGUAGE. To which is added, a copious Vocabulary of Greek,
Latin, and Scriptural Proper Names, divided into syllables, and accented
for pronunciation. By Thomas Rees, LL.D., F.R.S.A. The
above Dictionary will make a beautiful pocket volume, same size
as Young Man's Own Book.
MEMORANDA OF A RESIDENCE AT THE COURT OF
LONDON. By Richard Rush, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister
Plenipotentiary from the United States of America; from 1817 to
1825. Second edition, revised and enlarged.
PAROCHIAL LECTURES ON THE LAW AND THE GOSPEL.
By Stephen H. Tyng, D.D., Rector of St. Paul's Church,
Philadelphia.
THE CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHER, or the Connection of
Science and Philosophy with Religion. By Thomas Dick.
THE PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION, or an Illustration of the
Moral Laws of the Universe. By Thomas Dick.
THE IMPROVEMENT OF SOCIETY, by the Diffusion of
Knowledge; or an Illustration of the advantages which would result
from a general dissemination of rational and scientific information
among all ranks. Illustrated with engravings. By Thomas
Dick, LL.D., author of Philosophy of a Future State, &c.
THE PIECE BOOK, comprising Choice Specimens of Poetry
and Eloquence, intended to be transcribed or committed to memory.
MEMOIRS OF HORTENSE BEAUHARNAIS, DUCHESS
OF ST. LEU AND EX-QUEEN OF HOLLAND.
This is an interesting account of a conspicuous character. She was the
daughter of Josephine Beauharnais, alias, or afterwards, Josephine Bonaparte,
former wife of Napoleon of France; and she became the wife of Louis Bonaparte,
the ex-king of Holland. Of those who have figured at large on the great theatre
of life, at one of the most memorable eras in history, many interesting anecdotes
are given. We can safely recommend this work to the reading public.—
American Sentinel.
No one of all those distinguished personages who occupied so large a space in
the world's eye, from their connexion with Napoleon, presents a story of deeper
interest than the amiable and accomplished subject of these memoirs. Possessing
all the grace and fascination of manner, which so eminently characterized
her mother, the Empress Josephine, she has a strength and cultivation of intellect;
an extent and variety of knowledge; and a philosophic fortitude which
the Empress never could boast. Unhappy in her marriage, she was yet a devoted
wife and fond mother; and though gifted with every quality to adorn
royalty, she willingly withdrew to the shades of private life, resigning the crown
she had embellished without a murmur.
Many of the details of this work will be found deeply interesting, and the notes
are copious and instructing. The translator has faithfully preserved the spirit
of his original.—Saturday Courier.
HARPE'S HEAD,
A LEGEND OF KENTUCKY.
By James Hall, Esq. author of Legends of the West, &c. &c.
It is an able production, characteristic of the writer's eminent talents, and
abounding with narratives and sketches of absorbing interest. The history of
Harpe forms the ground-work of the tale, the incidents of which are developed
with much skill and effect.—Philad. Gazette.
Harpe's Head is one of the most interesting stories with which we are acquainted.—
Daily Chronicle.
Judge Hall is among the most popular of American writers, and in the present
production, has given another proof of the felicity of his genius. It abounds
with narratives and sketches of deep interest, relating to the early periods of
the settlement of Kentucky.—N. Y. Com. Adv.
Mr. James Hall, a native of Philadelphia, and favorably known as the author
of Legends of the West, has just published a new work, entitled “Harpe's
Head, A Legend of Kentucky.” It is well calculated to add to his fame, and
though it bears evidences of being a hasty composition, reflects great credit
upon the author. It is the story of Micajah Harpe, a Kentuckian Freebooter,
and the scene changes from Virginia, in the olden time, to Ohio and Kentucky.
The account of a Virginia Barbecue is so well and naturally executed, that it
must become a favorite. It is here inserted as a favorable specimen of the work.
Miss Pendleton is altogether lovely.—Poulson's Daily Adv.
With the ordinary characters which must be found in such a composition, we
have one quite original being, in the person of “Hark Short, the snake-killer;”
and the production, as a whole, forms one of the most engaging volumes that
we have met with. To its other merits we should not omit to add that, like
other writings from the same pen, it is distinguished by an unobtrusive tone of
the purest moral sentiment.—Penn. Inquirer.
We cheerfully commend this work to the attention of our readers, assuring
them that they will be amused, entertained, and instructed by its perusal—they
will find Indian warfare,—savage modes of life—the difficulties and dangers
experienced by the early pioneers in the “far, far west”—delineated with a
master hand, in language glowing, vivid, and natural.—National Banner.
WACOUSTA, OR THE PROPHECY;
A Tale of the Canadas. 2 vols.
This work is of a deeply interesting character, and justly lays claim to be of
the highest cast. We think it decidedly superior to any production of the kind
which has recently emanated from the press. It abounds with thrilling scenes,
and the author has displayed a power of delineation rarely surpassed.—Daily Intelligencer.
We have read it, and unhesitatingly pronounce it one of the most deeply interesting
works of fiction which has met our eye for many a month. It is a historical
novel—the scenes of which are laid principally at Detroit and Mackina
—and some of the tragic events which those places witnessed in the early settlement
of the country, are given with historic accuracy—particularly the massacre
of Mackina.—The author is evidently conversant with Indian stratagem
and with Indian eloquence; and has presented us with specimens of both, truly
characteristic of the untutored savage. We would gladly present our readers
with an extract from this interesting work, did our limits permit. In lieu of an
extract, however, we commend the work itself to them.—Commercial Herald.
The principal personage of this novel is a savage chief, and the story of his
retreat, bearing off captive the daughter of the Governor, is told with thrilling
effect. It is well written throughout, and abounds with interesting scenes.—
Com. Adv.
THE YOUNG LADY'S SUNDAY BOOK;
A Practical Manual of the Christian Duties of Piety, Benevolence,
and Self-government. Prepared with particular reference
Young Man's Own Book.” Philadelphia. Key & Biddle, 1833.
32mo. pp. 312.
We have read many of the selections in this little volume, and have met with
nothing objectionable—Generally, the style is pure, easy, and pleasing, and the
matter good, well calculated for the purpose for which the work is intended,
and we cheerfully recommend it to the persons for whom it is principally designed,
as profitable for instruction.—Episcopal Recorder.
A most attractive little volume in its appearance—and in this age of sweeping
frivolity in literature, of far superior excellence in its contents. Certainly some
such manual was required for the closet—when novels and light reading of every
description have so ruled paramount in the drawing-room. We can give it no
higher praise than to say that the extracts are of a character to accomplish all
that the title-page holds out.—N. Y. Com. Adv.
A collection of excellent sentiments from approved authors, and adapted particularly
to the formation of the female character. The chapters are short, and
embrace a great variety of subjects of religious tendency, and altogether the
book is replete with instruction. It is illustrated by two pretty engravings.—Presbyterian.
As the public feeling now runs, the publishers of this little work have done
well by their effort to keep it in a proper channel. The Young Lady's Sunday
Book is altogether practical in its character, and consisting, as it does, of short
pieces, takes a wide range in its subjects.
It is calculated to do good, and we should be happy to see the principles inculcated
in the portions we have read become the ruling principles of all.—Journal
and Telegraph.
Messrs. Key & Biddle have just issued a volume of the most beautiful kind,
entitled The Young Lady's Sunday Book. It is full of pure, didactic matter, the
fruits of a pious and gifted mind; and while the clearness and light of its pages
commend them to the eye, the truth of the precepts finds its way to the heart.
The work can be unhesitatingly praised, as worthy in all respects. The embellishments
are finished and tasteful. “Meditation,” the frontispiece, from the
burin of Ellis, would add a grace to any annual. We trust Messrs. Key & Biddle
receive a liberal patronage from the religious community, for we know of no
booksellers in this country who issue more good volumes calculated to subserve
the immortal interests of man.—Philad. Gaz.
TRANSATLANTIC SKETCHES,
Comprising visits to the most interesting scenes in North America,
and the West Indies, with Notes on Negro Slavery and Canadian
Emigration. By Capt. J. E. Alexander, 42d Royal Highlanders,
F. R. G. S. M. R. A. S. &c. author of Travels in Ava, Persia, &c.
We are happy to have the opportunity afforded us of noticing such a book of
travels as that called Transatlantic Sketches.—American Sentinel.
One of the most interesting and instructive works that has appeared for some
time, has just been issued from the press of Key & Biddle, entitled Transatlantic
Sketches.—Penn. Inquirer.
We wish we had room to speak of this volume according to our high opinion
of its merit, and to make the reader acquainted with the style and spirit of the
writer, by presenting some extracts. Captain Alexander, as a narrator of what
he sees and hears, has hit our taste exactly. We do not feel like a reader, but
a fellow-traveller—not in company with a dull, prosing fellow, but with a gentleman
of life and spirit, of wit and learning. Upon the whole, we commend the
book to the public, as one of the very best of the numerous recent publications
of travels that have been sent forth.—Com. Herald.
THE RELIGIOUS SOUVENIR;
A Christmas, New-Year's, and Birth-Day Present for 1834.
Edited by G. T. Bedell, D.D., illustrated with eight splendid steel
engravings.
A volume, too, which does not degrade or disgrace the subject—a volume destined,
not to pass away with the winter-greens that adorn our Christmas parlors,
but to maintain a lasting hold on the attention of the Christian community,
at least so long as good taste and good sense shall have any vote in the selection
of books. We have read the volume carefully, and do not hesitate to pronounce
it one of unusual interest as well as solid merit.—U. S. Gazette.
Messrs. Key & Biddle have made a valuable present to religious parents,
guardians, and friends, in this elegant little volume. Why should all our gifts
on these occasions be worldly, or worse? And why should religious truth always
shun the aids of beautiful ornament? The embellishments are attractive, well
selected, and well executed. The various papers which compose the volume are
serious, tasteful, alluring, imbued with the spirit of the gospel, in a word, such
as we should have expected from one so zealous for the cause of Christ, and so
inveptive of happy thoughts as the Rev. Editor. This annual may be safely
recommended to the Christian public.—The Presbyterian.
To all, therefore, who desire intellectual improvement, and, at the same time,
the gratification of a true taste—and to all who would make a really valuable
present to their friends, we would say, in conclusion, go and procure the Religious
Souvenir. It is not merely a brilliant little ornament for the parlor centre-table,
but a book worthy of a place in every sensible man's library.—Cincinnati
Inquirer.
The typography, embellishments, and general appearance of the work, render
it fully equal in these respects to any of the kind published in our country, while
its subjects are far more suitable for the contemplation of Christians, than the
light reading with which most of them are filled.—Episcopal Recorder.
The articles are not only interesting, but calculated to produce a beneficial
effect upon the minds of those who read it, therefore, a very proper work for the
purpose for which it is designed, and hope it may meet with an extensive sale.—
Baltimore Republican.
In the general character of those fashionable, and as to appearance, attractive
volumes, the annuals, there is so much that is trashy and unprofitable, that it
was with no little misgiving we looked into the pages of one which is now before
us, entitled “The Religious Souvenir.” The matter is altogether of a religious
and moral tendency, not chargeable with sectarian bias, and such as the
most scrupulous need not hesitate to admit into family reading.—The Friend.
This little work is intended to furnish what was heretofore wanted—a Christmas
and New-Year's offering, which may be bestowed and accepted by the most
scrupulous.—Pittsburg Gazette.
We are happy to announce the tasteful appearance and valuable matter of the
Religious Souvenir for 1834. Dr. Bedell is as much distinguished for his belles-lettres
attainment, as for the profoundness of his scholarship and the purity of
his motives. He has found himself at home in this tasteful enterprise, and in
good company with the associated talent of the contributors to his beautiful
pages.—N. Y. Weekly Messenger.
Messrs. Key & Biddle have published a handsome little volume, entitled Religious
Souvenir, and edited by the Rev. Dr. Bedell. It is embellished with beautiful
engravings, and printed with elegance. The literary contents are very
good, soundly pious, and free of all invidious remark or allusion. True Christianity
is that which purifies the heart, liberalizes the feelings, and amends the
conduct.—National Gazette.
We are free to confess our admiration of this lovely volume. It is decidedly
the gem of the year. Not only unquestionably superior in elegance and execution
to all others of its class published in this country, but worthy in the fine
and careful finish of the admirable engravings, to rank along with the best of
those annually produced by the finished artists and abounding capital of England.
We hope an unprecedented patronage will remunerate the spirited publishers
for producing, at such a liberal expense, a work not less creditable to
themselves than to the state of art in the country.—N. Y. Com. Adv.
We hail with pleasure the second appearance of this judicious instructive annual,
with its exterior much improved, and its interior rich in lessons of piety.
Its aim is hallowed—its usefulness unquestionable—and it is a gift which affection
may offer without scruple, because approved by religion.—Charleston Cour.
LETTERS TO AN ANXIOUS INQUIRER,
Designed to relieve the difficulties of a Friend, under Serious Impressions.
BY T. CARLTON HENRY, D. D.
Late Pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church, Charleston, S. C.
With an Introductory Essay, (in which is presented Dr. Henry's
Preface to his Letters, and his Life, by a friend.) By G. T. Bedell,
D.D., Rector of St. Andrew's Church, Philadelphia.
It is an important volume, and is an indispensable auxiliary to a proper contemplation
of the most important of all subjects. The work contains a very
judicious Introductory Essay, from the pen of the Rev. G. T. Bedell, Rector of
St. Andrew's Church, in this city.—Sat. Eve. Post.
In a revival of religion among his own people, Dr. Bedell found this work useful,
and was led to seek its republication in a cheap and neat form, for the advantage
of those who cannot afford to purchase costly volumes. We hope the work
may prove a blessing to all who shall read it.—The Philadelphian.
These letters have been for many years highly valued for the practical and
appropriate instruction for which they are principally designed.—Presbyterian.
THE SOLDIER'S BRIDE, AND OTHER TALES.
By James Hall, Esq. author of “Legends of the West, &c.
Contents.—1. The Soldier's Bride;—2. Cousin Lucy and the
Village Teacher;—3. Empty Pockets;—4. The Captain's Lady;—
5. The Philadelphia Dun;—6. The Bearer of Dispatches;—7. The
Village Musician;—8. Fashionable Watering-Places;—9. The
Useful Man;—10. The Dentist;—11. The Bachelor's Elysium;—
12. Pete Featherton;—13. The Billiard Table.
We have just risen from the perusal of the Soldier's Bride. The impression it
leaves upon the mind is like that which we receive from the sight of a landscape
of rural beauty and repose—or from the sound of rich and sweet melody. Every
part of this delightful tale is redolent of moral and natural loveliness. The
writer belongs to the same class with Irving and Paulding; and as in his descriptions,
characters, and incidents, he never loses sight of the true and legitimate
purpose of fiction, the elevation of the taste and moral character of his
readers, he will contribute his full share to the creation of sound and healthful
literature.—U. S. Gazette.
Key & Biddle have recently published another series of Tales—the Soldier's
Bride, &c. by James Hall. The approbation everywhere elicited by Judge Hall's
Legends of the West, has secured a favorable reception for the present volume;
and its varied and highly spirited contents, consisting of thirteen tales, will be
found no less meritorious than his previous labors.—National Gazette.
We have found much to admire in the perusal of this interesting work. It
abounds in correct delineation of character, and although in some of his tales,
the author's style is familiar, yet he has not sacrificed to levity the dignity of
his pen, nor tarnished his character as a chaste and classical writer. At the
present day, when the literary world is flooded with fustian and insipidity, and
the public taste attempted to be vitiated by the weak and effeminate productions
of those whose minds are as incapable of imagining the lofty and generous feelings
they would pourtray, as their hearts are of exercising them, it is peculiarly
gratifying to receive a work, from the pages of which the eye may cater with
satisfaction, and the mind feast with avidity and benefit.—Pittsburg Mercury.
TALES OF ROMANCE, FIRST SERIES.
This is not only an uncommonly neat edition, but a very entertaining book;
how could it be otherwise, when such an array of authors as the following is
presented—
The work contains Ali's Bride, a tale from the Persian, by Thomas Moore, interspersed
sustains a reputation which every succeeding production greatly enhances. The
Wire Merchant's Story, by the author of the King's Own. The Procrastinator,
by T. Crofton Croker. The Spanish Beadsman. The Legend of Rose Rocke, by
the author of Stories of Waterloo. Barbara S—, by Charles Lamb. A
Story of the Heart. The Vacant Chair, by J. M. Wilson; and the Queen of the
Meadows, by Miss Mitford.
This volume has no pretensions to the inculcation of mawkish sensibility.
We have read every word of it, and can confidently recommend it to our friends.
—Journal of Belles Lettres.
ZOE, OR THE SICILIAN SAYDA.
As an historical romance, embellished with the creations of a lively imagination,
and adorned with the beauties of a classic mind, this production will take
a high rank, and although not so much lauded as a Cooper or an Irving, he may
be assured that by a continuance of his efforts, he will secure the approbation
of his countrymen, and the reward of a wide-spread fame.—Daily Intelligencer.
We do not call attention to this on account of any previous reputation of its
author; it possesses intrinsic merit, and will obtain favor because it merits it.
It is historical, and the name and circumstances are to be found in the records
of those times. The plot is ably conceived, the characters are vividly, and some
are fearfully drawn.—Boston American Traveller.
THE TESTIMONY OF NATURE AND REVELATION TO
THE BEING, PERFECTIONS, AND GOVERNMENT OF
GOD. By the Rev. Henry Fergus, Dunfermline, author of the
History of the United States of America, till the termination of
the War of Independence, in Lardner's Cyclopedia.
The Rev. Mr. Fergus's Testimony of Nature and Revelation to the Being,
Perfection, and Government of God, is an attempt to do in one volume what the
Bridgewater Treatises are to do in eight. We wish one-eighth of the reward
only may make its way to Dunfermline. Mr. Fergus's Treatise goes over the
whole ground with fervor and ability; it is an excellent volume, and may be
had for somewhere about about half the price of one Bridgewater octavo.—London
Spectator.
A work of great research and great talent.—Evangelical Magazine.
A very seasonable and valuable work. Its philosophy is unimpeachable, and
its theology pure and elevated.—New Monthly Mag.
This is an elegant and enlighted work, of a pious and highly gifted man.—
Metropolitan Magazine.
This excellent work contains, in a brief space, all that is likely to be useful in
the Bridgewater Treatises, and displays infinitely more of original thought and
patient research, than the two volumes which have been recently published by
the managers of his lordship's legacy. We have never seen any work in which
the necessity of a revelation was more clearly demonstrated, while at the same
time its due importance was assigned to natural religion.
We hope that the work will be extensively used in the education of youth; it
is admirably calculated to stimulate students to scientific research, and the observation
of Nature; it suggests subjects of contemplation, by which the mind
must be both delighted and instructed; and, finally, it teaches the most sublime
of all lessons, admiration of the power, delight in the wisdom, and gratitude for
the love of our Creator.—Athenæum.
LETTERS FROM THE NORTH OF EUROPE,
Or Journal of Travels in Holland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden,
Finland, Russia, Prussia, and Saxony. By Charles B. Elliott, Esq.
This is one of those remarkably pleasant tours which an intelligent gentleman,
who has seen much of the world, is alone calculated to write—one of those
productions which engage the attention and do not fatigue it, and which we
read from first to last with the agreeable sensation, that we are gathering the
information of very extensive travel easily, by our own fireside.—London Literary
Gazette.
YOUNG MAN'S OWN BOOK.
A Manual of Politeness, Intellectual Improvement, and Moral
Deportment, calculated to form the character on a solid basis, and
to insure respectability and success in life.
Its contents are made up of brief and well written essays upon subjects very
judiciously selected, and will prove a useful and valuable work to those who
give it a careful reading, and make proper use of those hints which the author
throws out.—Boston Trav.
We cheerfully recommend a perusal of the Young Man's Own Book to all our
young friends, for we are convinced that if they read it faithfully, they will find
themselves both wiser and better.—The Young Man's Advocate.
In the Young Man's Own Book, much sound advice upon a variety of important
subjects is administered, and a large number of rules are laid down for
the regulation of conduct, the practice of which cannot fail to insure respectability.—
Saturday Courier.
JOURNAL OF A NOBLEMAN;
Being a Narrative of his residence at Vienna, during Congress.
The author is quite spirited in his remarks on occurrences, and his sketches of
character are picturesque and amusing. We commend this volume to our readers
as a very entertaining production.—Daily Intel.
We presume no one could take up this little volume and dip into it, without
feeling regret at being obliged by any cause to put it down before it was read.
The style is fine, as are the descriptions, the persons introduced, together with
the anecdotes, and in general, the entire sketching is by the hand of a master.
Everything appears natural—there is no affectation of learning—no overstraining—no
departure from what one would expect to see and hear—all is easy—all
graceful.—Com. Herald.
YOUNG LADY'S OWN BOOK,
A Manual of Intellectual Improvement and Moral Deportment.
By the author of the Young Man's Own Book.
Messrs. Key & Biddle, of this city, have published a very neat little volume,
entitled The Young Lady's Own Book. Its contents are well adapted to its useful
purpose.—National Gazette.
The Young Lady's Own Book seems to us to have been carefully prepared, to
comprehend much and various instruction of a practical character, and to correspond
in its contents with its title.—Young Man's Advocate.
The Young Lady's Own Book, embellished with beautiful engravings, should
be in the hands of every young female.—Inquirer.
All the articles in the Young Lady's Own Book are of a useful and interesting
character.—N. Y. Com. Adv.
AN ADDRESS TO THE YOUNG, ON THE IMPORTANCE
OF RELIGION. By John Foster, author of Essays on
Decision of Character, &c.
We are not going to hold a rush light up to a book of John Foster's, but only
mean to tell what is its intent. It is an awakening appeal to youth of the refined
and educated sort, upon the subject of their personal religion. There can
be no doubt as to its currency.—The Presbyterian.
A MOTHER'S FIRST THOUGHTS. By the author of “Faith's
Telescope.”
This is a brief miniature, from an Edinburgh edition. Its aim is to furnish
Religious Meditations, Prayers, and Devotional Poetry for pious mothers. It is
most highly commended in the Edinburgh Presbyterian Review, and in the
Christian Advocate. The author, who is a lady of Scotland, unites a deep knowledge
of sound theology, with no ordinary talent for sacred poetry.—Presbyterian.
EXAMPLE; OR, FAMILY SCENES.
This is one of those useful and truly moral publications which can not fail to
be read with delight by the youth of both sexes, who, as their hearts expand,
and they advance in years, have need of some instructor to point out the path
they should follow for their future happiness. The author has been triumphantly
successful in attaining these laudable objects in this interesting publication.—
Weekly Times.
Some of the `Scenes' are sweetly touching, and, in our view, the author has
succeeded remarkably well in presenting the sublime and yet simple truths of
Evangelical Religion to the mind in a way of deep and abiding impressions.—
N. Y. Com. Adv.
True religion is diffusive in its character, and when it is fairly exemplified in
the life of an individual, it will excite attention, command respect, and perhaps
lead to still happier results. `Let your light so shine before men that they may
see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven,' is a command
of high authority, and one which presupposes the force of example. These
`Family Scenes,' which belong to the same class with Mrs. Sherwood's writings,
are intended to illustrate the influence of example. The book is pleasingly written,
and is characterized by a vein of pious and evangelical sentiment.—Presbyterian.
A HARMONY OF THE FOUR GOSPELS,
Founded on the Arrangement of the Harmonia Evangelica, by
the Rev. Edward Greswell. With the Practical Reflections of Dr.
Doddridge. Designed for the use of Families and Schools, and for
Private Edification. By the Rev. E. Bickersteth, Rector of Wolton,
Herts.
A beautiful duodecimo of about four hundred pages; and one of the best
books which has appeared for many years, with respect to personal and domestic
edification. It is next to impossible to read the ordinary Harmonies. The current
of the narrative is broken by constant interruptions. In this, we have in
convenient sections, the four Gospel histories, made up into one, in proper order,
in the words of the common English translation. The devotional notes of
Doddridge are better than any we have seen for reading in the closet, or at family
worship. The name of Bickersteth, prefixed to a book, is enough to show that
it is written simply to serve the cause of Christ.—The Presbyterian.
THE SPIRIT OF LIFE.
A Poem, pronounced before the Franklin Society of Brown University,
Sept. 3, 1833. With other Poems. By Willis Gaylord
Clark, Esq.
We hope Mr. Clark may find sufficient inducements to place before the public,
in a more accessible form than that in which they are now scattered through
the periodicals of the day, more of the creations of his fancy, breathing as they
do the fervor of moral purity, as well as chastened and beautiful poetry—we do
not hesitate to say they will be most highly acceptable. The anonymous productions
of his pen have long attracted the highest praise, and it is high time
that he should, in his own person, reap the laurels he has so well earned, and
boldly challenge a rank among the best of the American poets.—N. Y. Mirror.
The “Spirit of Life” is a clustering of many of those beauties, which all, who
admire poetry, have already seen and applauded in the different productions of
Clark's gifted mind.—U. S. Gaz.
This poetry is of no common order. The author beautifully describes the Spirit
of Life as pervading all Nature, and triumphing over the power of death.—
Episcopal Recorder.
The “Spirit of Life” is an essay of sound morality, in the guise of smooth
and easy versification. It aims by graceful numbers to better the heart; to teach
it contentment here below.—Poulson's Daily Adv.
THE HAPPINESS OF THE BLESSED,
Considered as to the particulars of their state; their recognition
of each other in that state; and its difference of degrees. To which
are added, Musings on the Church and her Services. By Richard
Mant, D. D. M. R. I. A. Lord Bishop of Down and Connor.
The design of the Rev. author in this production, is to adduce from scriptural
authority, the most satisfactory evidence of the happiness and joy of those who
by faith follow Christ, and who, in the exercise of those virtues required by the
gospel, are emphatically denominated the children of God. The author has
touched upon several topics connected with the subject, which must afford much
consolation to the Christian, who, from the very nature of his organization, is
liable to doubts and fearful forebodings as to the state of his heart and the
grounds of his faith.
Christian hope, confidence, and charity, are stamped upon every page, and the
writer deserves well of the Christian inquirer, for the industry which he has displayed
in collecting and arranging so many important and valuable arguments
in favor of the glorious and resplendent state of the faithful and humble disciple
of Jesus.
In this world, mankind have need of consolation—of the cup of sorrow all
must drink—happiness is a phantom, a meteor, beautiful and bright, always alluringus
by its glow—forever within our reach, but eternally eluding our grasp
—but this state of things was designed by our Creator for our benefit—it was
intended to withdraw our affections from the shadowy and unsubstantial pleasures
of the world, to the Father of all in Heaven, and to prepare, by discipline
and zeal, for a state, beyond the grave, of felicity, which eye hath not seen, ear
hath not heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive of. To
our readers we cheerfully commend this delightful volume, confident that by its
perusal the faith of the doubtful will be confirmed, and the anticipative hope of
the confident increased.—Christian's Magazine.
We take the earliest opportunity of introducing to our readers this excellent
little book, to which the deeply interesting nature of the subject, and the well-earned
reputation of the Right Rev. author will secure no inconsiderable portion
of attention. The vast importance of the topics herein treated, and the valuable
practical effects they may assist in producing, induce us to call thus early the
public attention to a work, small indeed in size, but which is calculated not a
little to inform all candid and serious inquirers into a subject hitherto involved
in much obscurity, but not a little elucidated by the present author.—Gent. Mag.
MEMOIR OF MISS MARY JANE GRAHAM.
By the Rev. Charles Bridges, M. A. author of Christian Ministry,
&c. &c.
We have seldom read a biographical sketch which we could more cordially or
confidently recommend to the Christian reader. The highly gifted, accomplished,
and spiritually minded subject of the work has found a kindred spirit in the excellent
author. He has used his valuable materials in such a manner as to render
the memoir of Miss Graham not less rich in interest than full of instruction,
to all who are capable of being interested in the highest mental endowments,
sanctified and set apart to the service of God. There are few, either believers
or unbelievers, who may not be instructed by the counsel, or benefited by the
example of Miss Graham.—Episcopal Recorder.
In many respects it is one of the richest pieces of biography with which we
are acquainted.—Presbyterian.
TALES OF ROMANCE, SECOND SERIES.
The Tales of Romance, which Messrs. Key & Biddle have just published, are
altogether above the ordinary collections of the day. Every author included
among the contributors to the volume, has acquired previously a distinct reputation
in other works. Such names as Malcolm, Roscoe, and others, will be sufficient
to give an idea of the merits of these Tales. The story of Fazio, from
whence is derived the tragedy of that name, is well and concisely told. We shall
present the best part of it soon, to the readers of the Intelligencer.—Daily Intel.
GENERAL VIEW OF THE GEOLOGY OF SCRIPTURE,
In which the unerring truth of the Inspired Narrative of the
early events in the world is exhibited, and distinctly proved, by the
corroborative testimony of physical facts, on every part of the
earth's surface. By George Fairholme, Esq.
The work before us is admirably calculatsd to enlighten the mind upon the
subject of Creation, and we have rarely perused a work which has added so much
to our stock of ideas, or which has given so much gratification. If the limits of
our paper permitted, we should take pleasure in laying before our readers an
analysis of the contents of this excellent production, but as that is out of the
question, we must refer them to the work itself, where we can assure them they
will find an abundance of information on the important subject of Creation.—
Phil. Gaz.
The Geology of Scripture, by George Fairholme, Esq. is an admirable work.
The circulation of it should be extensive; and, judging from its intrinsic merit,
such is its destiny.—Christian Gazette.
LIFE OF WILLIAM COWPER, ESQ.
Compiled from his correspondence and other authentic sources
of information, containing remarks on his writings, and on the
peculiarities of his interesting character, never before published.
By Thomas Taylor.
Taylor's Life of Cowper has several private letters of the poet not found in
other works, which serve to correct many false impressions relative to his mental
aberration. It is due the cause of humanity, and of justice generally, that
the truth should be received; especially when, by affecting the character of so
great a man as Cowper, it in a great measure touches the whole of the human
kind.—U. S. Gaz.
A comprehensive and perspicuous memoir of Cowper has been much wanted,
and will be read with gratification by the admirers of this amiable and pious
man, whose accomplishments, excellencies, and peculiarity of character, have
rendered him an object of interest to the world. We are indebted to Mr. Taylor
for his excellent work, and for the happy manner in which it has been accomplished.—
Boston Trav.
Thirty years nearly have passed since we first read with great delight Hayley's
Life of Cowper, and we have never cast our eyes on the volumes since, without
wishing to unravel a few things in the poet's history which were then left in
mystery. Taylor professes to deal openly, and remove all concealment. In one
beautiful volume, he has given us the substance of all which is known concerning
the most sensible and pious of all the English poets; whose writings will
be regarded as the best of their kind wherever the English language shall be
read. In all his numerous works, he has no line of measured jingle without
sense. Can this be said of scarcely any other child of the muses? Those who
have Hayley's two volumes, will be thankful for the labors of Taylor; and those
who have neither, should purchase this new compilation without delay. It is a
work which will be found interesting to all classes, especially to the lovers of
literature and genuine piety, and to place within the reach of general readers,
many of whom have neither the means nor the leisure to consult larger works, all
that is really interesting respecting that singularly afflicted individual, whose productions,
both poetic and prose, can never be read but with delight.—Philadelphian.
Messrs Key & Biddle deserve credit for placing within the reach of all, in so
cheap and convenient a form, what must be salutary in every instance in its
general effect. The character, pursuits, performances, and sufferings of Cowper,
combine more interest than belongs to the life of any of the great English authors
who spent any considerable part of their days in retirement.—Nat. Gaz.
A beautiful American edition, from the press of Key & Biddle, has just been
published, and cannot fail to meet with a welcome reception from all who admire
that best of men and most agreeable of poets. It is the most complete and
valuable edition of the Life of Cowper extant, and contains a well-executed portrait.—
Poulson's Daily Adv.
LEGENDS OF THE WEST.
By James Hall, second edition, containing the following beautiful
told tales:—The Backwoodsman;—The Divining Rod;—The
Seventh Son;—The Missionaries;—The Legend of Carondolet;—
The Intestate;—Michael De Lancey;—The Emigrants;—The Indian
Hater;—The Isle of the Yellow Sands;—The Barrackmaster's
Daughter;—The Indian Wife's Lament.
We are glad to see a new edition of these well-told tales of Judge Hall has
recently been published.—Bost. Eve. Gaz.
The deserved popularity of these tales of Judge Hall, have secured to them the
publication of a second edition. His sketches are admirably drawn, and his
personal familiarity with scenery and life in the West, have furnished him with
incidents of peculiar interest, greatly increased by felicitous description.—N. Y.
Com. Adv.
The rapid sale of the first, has created a demand for a second edition of the
work, whose title heads this article.
The “Legends” comprise twelve articles, one of which is poetic. The scenes
of these tales are all located in the “far, far West,” and the characters are taken
from the aborigines and early emigrants. The difficulties and dangers which the
first settlers had to undergo ere they were established in security, are depicted
in glowing colors, and with a master hand.
The rude and savage warfare of the Indians, the secret ambuscade, the midnight
slaughter, the conflagration of the log hut in the prairie and forest, the
shrieks of consuming women and children, are presented to our minds by the
author in vivid and impressive language. These tales possess much interest, as
they are founded in fact, and are illustrative of the habits of the Indian, and
the life of the hunter. As a writer, Judge Hall is more American than any other
we possess; his scenes are American; his characters are American, and his language
is American. His personages are invested with an individuality which
cannot be mistaken, and his conceptions and illustrations are drawn from the
great storehouse of Nature.—Daily Intel.
THE CHURCH OF GOD,
In a Series of Dissertations, by the Rev. Robert Wilson Evans,
of Trinity College, Cambridge.
The object of the writer is to show that the fundamental doctrines of the
Christian Religion have been taught in the various dispensations, from the institution
of the Church in the family of Adam, to the more clear and perfect
exposition of its principles by the Savior and his apostles. He is thus led to
deal wholly with general principles—those in which the great body of Christians
agree. This frees his work from all savor of sectarianism, and the ingenuity
and talent exhibited in its execution, commend it to the religious of every name.
It would perhaps be well to say, that the above work is by the author of “Rectory
of Valehead.”—Episcopal Recorder.
THE PROGRESSIVE EXPERIENCE OF THE HEART,
UNDER THE DISCIPLINE OF THE HOLY GHOST, FROM
REGENERATION TO MATURITY. By Mrs. Stevens.
This is a work which may be recommended to religious readers and to serious
inquirers, with great safety. It is written in an impressive style, and is evidently
the production of a mind and heart thoroughly imbued with Christian
knowledge and experience. The operations of the Holy Ghost upon the soul of
man, are traced with a discrimination which nothing but a personal experience
of his influences could have furnished. Doddridge's Rise and Progress of Religion
in the Soul, is an admirable book on this subject, but Mrs. Stevens's treatise
deserves an honorable place at its side, Ministers of the Gospel should consult
the spiritual welfare of their people, by recommending and promoting the circulation
of such works.—Presbyterian.
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