the history, power, and resources of Russia will, most probably for some
time to come, form matters of deep interest and inquiry for the public
mind, we may reasonably anticipate a full supply of information, and much
speculation as to her rise, progress, and anticipated destiny. In forming
our own opinions, however, upon any important question, it is not always
safe to rely on the arguments or representations of enthusiasts, whose
imaginations can easily figure out plausible results, because it is the
honest desire of their hearts that just such results should happen. But,
at the same time, we by no means intend that this remark shall apply
to the work under consideration, for it is evidently from the pen of a
statesman and philosopher; and, although the author may be still more or
less of an enthusiast in regard to the destiny of races and empires, his
principles and views are evidently the results of experience, reflection,
and investigation. For nearly thirty years, as he tells us, his existence
has been agitated by the political tempests overwhelming his native land,
as well as other parts of Europe. He appears at one time to have been
an admirer of the power and destiny of Russia. But in his youth he took
an active part in the affairs of Poland, the land of his birth, and,
in 1830-31, was driven into exile because he had participated in the
insurrection of that period. His style is animated and attractive, much
more so than is common in similar works of political inquiry.
CAT AND DOG; _or, Memoirs of Puss and the Captain_. An amusing book for
children, filled with pretty engravings. A very interesting story, quite
philosophical, too, and as well calculated for the perusal of the elder
branches of the family as the younger.
* * * * *
From BLANCHARD & LEA, Philadelphia:--
HISTORY OF OLIVER CROMWELL AND THE ENGLISH COMMONWEALTH, _from the
Execution of Charles the First to the Death of Cromwell_. By M. Guizot.
Translated by Andrew R. Scoble. In two volumes. This work embraces a
period of sixty-three years, the events of which are the most exciting and
remarkable in the history of England. The appendix to each volume contains
valuable historical documents, which, being derived principally from
the French Foreign Office, and now first published, add greatly to the
interest of the work. A new character is given to many of the actors in
that bloody civil war rendering the volumes more worthy and impartial than
many of the histories that have preceded them.
ORR'S CIRCLE OF THE SCIENCES. Nos. 1 and 2 of a series of treatises on
every branch of human knowledge. No. 1 treats of the nature, connections,
and uses of the great departments of human knowledge, by the editor.
No. 2, the physiology of animal and vegetable life. With numerous
illustrations.
* * * * *
From WM. S. YOUNG, 173 Race Street, Philadelphia:--
ODD-FELLOWSHIP EXAMINED IN THE LIGHT OF SCRIPTURE AND REASON. By Joseph T.
Cooper, Pastor of the Second Associate Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia.
With an introduction by the Rev. J. B. Dales, D. D. Second edition. This
work has been strongly recommended by a number of clergymen belonging to
the Presbyterian church.
* * * * *
From GOULD & LINCOLN, Boston:--
THE PRIEST AND THE HUGUENOT; _or, the Persecution in the Age of Louis XV_.
From the French of L. Bungener. In two volumes. The aim of the work is
well defined by its title. Monsieur Bungener, a minister of the "Reformed
Church of Geneva," and author of a very popular work, "The Preacher and
the King," has aimed to exhibit, in a series, the principal religious
aspects of France, from the age of Louis Fourteenth to the close of the
last century. This "Priest and the Huguenot" is the second work in the
series, the "Preacher and the King" being the first, and will be found
very interesting to all who wish to understand thoroughly the causes that
have made and keep France what she is--Roman Catholic and Imperial--when
her people seem made for civil and religious freedom. The translator, a
lady of New York, has accomplished her difficult task with much success.
The "characteristics of the French style of thought and expression" seem
well preserved.
THE RELIGIONS OF THE WORLD AND THEIR RELATIONS TO CHRISTIANITY. By
Frederick Dennison Maurice, M. A., Professor of Divinity in King's
College, London. From the third revised London edition. This work is a
brief analysis of the influential religions of the world, and of the
relations of Christianity with the rest. The author searches out the germ,
that principle in each belief which gives it vitality and power, and shows
the adaptation of that especial truth to the needs of the people who
embraced it, or of the time in which it prevailed. He then shows how far
Christianity can accomplish the same purposes for all in a higher degree.
This work is evidently the result of much study and reflection, and is
written in a most liberal and comprehensive spirit.
THE CHRISTIAN WORLD UNMASKED. By John Berridge, A. M., Vicar of Everton,
&c. With a life of the author, by the Rev. Thomas Guthrie, D. D. This
is a reprint of a work written long ago by a clergyman of the Church of
England, a worthy compeer of Whitfield and Wesley. Its object is to test
the sincerity of the followers of Christ, and it is written in a plain and
searching manner, that leaves the formalist but little room to escape. The
style is animated and familiar, and, though sometimes peculiar, is always
forcible and effective. The sincerity of the writer's belief and the
strength of his mind are evident in every page.
* * * * *
NOVELS, SERIALS, PAMPHLETS, &c.
From T. B. Peterson, 102 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia: "The Fortune
Hunter: a Novel of New York Society." By Anna Cora Mowatt, author of the
"Autobiography of an Actress; or, Eight Years on the Stage," etc. This is
a cheap and very handsome reprint of a popular work, in which some of the
peculiarities of "good society" in New York are freely delineated, leaving
truthful and salutary impressions upon the mind of the reader.
From De Witt & Davenport, New York: "The Secretary; or, Circumstantial
Evidence." By the author of "Heads and Hearts." A very thrilling story,
intended to demonstrate the dangers of circumstantial evidence. Price 38
cents.
From D. Appleton & Co., 200 Broadway, New York, through C. G. Henderson &
Co., Philadelphia: "Memoirs, Journal, and Correspondence of Thomas Moore."
Edited by the Right Hon. Lord John Russell, M. P. Parts 7 and 8. Price 25
cents.
From T. Elwood Chapman, Philadelphia: "Human Happiness: an Address
delivered before the Pupils of Sharon Female Seminary." By John H. Bazley.
We have given an extract from this in our "Table," which shows our
appreciation of its merits.
From Beverly Tucker, Washington, D. C.: "Obituary Addresses on the
occasion of the Death of the Hon. William R. King, of Alabama,
Vice-President of the United States." These papers, selected from the
Message of the President of the United States, and the speeches of eminent
members of both Houses of Congress, form a worthy testimonial of the noble
character of the man whose memory they honor. There is a portrait, said to
be a striking likeness of Mr. King, beautifully engraved, adding to the
interest of the book.
[Illustration]
Godey's Arm-Chair.
OUR JUNE NUMBER.--END OF THE VOLUME.--No falling off yet. We continue, as
we commenced, the same number, or rather more engravings, and one hundred
pages; and so we shall continue throughout the year.
* * * * *
BILL.--Webster devotes a column of his large dictionary in explaining what
this word means; but the only one that we find applicable, after reading
through the whole, is the following: "Bill, an account of goods sold or
delivered, services rendered or work done, with the price or value annexed
to each article." In fact, the bill which every owing subscriber will find
in this number is a clearer definition than even Webster can give. And now
we shall expect the ladies to stand our friends, as they always have done,
and give their husbands or parents no rest until the same be liquidated.
* * * * *
GIFT LOTTERIES, or whatever they may call them. We observe that some of
these concerns are offering "Godey's Lady's Book" among their prizes.
(The rogues know that the "Book" is a great inducement.) We now wish it
understood that we have nothing to do with these concerns, and are adverse
to having the "Lady's Book" mentioned in their schemes; and we earnestly
advise all persons to have nothing to do with them. Don't purchase their
tickets.
* * * * *
AN ARTIST AT FAULT.--The Philadelphia "Sun" says: "'Godey' for April is on
our table, filled with admirable reading, useful receipts, and information
for the ladies. The embellishments are profuse, and all good but the
'Arrival of the Lady's Book;' the women appear too insensible of the treat
the post-rider is bringing them. We must treat Godey to a daguerreotype
of our family when the 'Book' arrives; such a scrambling and nimble
cutting of leaves as take place on these occasions, would make a spirited
illustration for one of the numbers. Root shall do it up some day, and
then there will be a natural picture, with some point in it."
And depend upon it, friend Wallace, we will publish the picture.
* * * * *
TWENTY-FOUR years and six months, friend "Reveille," have we published
the "Book." Six months more makes our quarter of a century, then for "the
silver wedding." Thank you for your compliment!
* * * * *
WHITE'S BONNET ESTABLISHMENT.--We give in this number nine patterns of
bonnets and boys' caps from this extensive establishment, and we can
truly say that ladies and wholesale merchants will find there fifty other
different styles. Brodie has also again laid us under obligations to him
for the beautiful styles of dress that we publish in this number.
* * * * *
LONG-A-COMING.--Who does not remember this delightful mosquito retreat
in Jersey, so properly named?--for it is so long after you leave the
last watering-place before you reach Long-a-coming. But this is not what
we intended to write about. We intended to say, Long a coming out; that
is, Harry Long and his brother have moved from that dreadful dingy Ann
Street store into a marble palace in Nassau Street. This is a building
worthy of this enterprising house, and, when they get up that new sign,
"Godey's Lady's Book," it will be perfect. We are glad thus to chronicle
the prosperity of H. Long & Brother, which has made it necessary for
them to enlarge their business accommodations, and to render their book
establishment, No. 121 Nassau, one of the most splendid and extensive
depots of books now in the United States.
* * * * *
ANTI-MACASSAR.--The "Evansville Inquirer" says: "We have learned what an
Anti-Macassar is, and are therefore wiser than all other men in town."
That same term puzzled us for a time, and probably an explanation would
not be amiss. It is the tidy that is put on the back of a chair to prevent
any grease from the head soiling the chair. It is an English term, and no
doubt the name was suggested by Rowland, of London, the manufacturer of
Macassar hair oil, as a puff for his establishment.
* * * * *
THE SCHUYLKILL BOATS.--These boats have commenced their delightful trips
on the Schuylkill. There is no pleasanter way of spending a couple of
hours on a hot day than to take a trip up this beautiful river as far
as Manayunk. Strangers should not neglect it; our citizens hardly need
urging. The boats are commodious, and the captains gentlemanly and
obliging.
* * * * *
SUMMER BEVERAGES.--Now is the time for our subscribers to provide
themselves with these excellent and temperance receipts. See advertisement
on cover.
* * * * *
"'ALONE.'--This is the title of a new book, a Virginia book, written by
a young Virginia lady, and treating chiefly of Virginia, which will be
brought out in the best style by Mr. Morris, of this city. Lest the fact
that it is a Virginia book, and the authoress a Virginian, may induce
the Virginia public to lay aside this notice without reading farther, we
will state at once that the literary merits of the fair young authoress
have been approved beyond the waters, and her productions, coming back
with English and French endorsement, will henceforth pass current, as a
matter of course, in American literary circles. _Godey's Lady's Book_,
speaking of a story which she had contributed to its pages, says: 'It may
be interesting to this lady to know that the story of "Marrying Through
Prudential Motives" has been copied from the _Lady's Book_ for March,
1853, into two of the English magazines--recopied into the New York
_Albion_, that professes to give nothing but the cream of the English
magazines, and now, being an English story, will no doubt be published by
half the papers in the United States.'"
We copy the above from the "Richmond Dispatch," and our readers will
remember that, in a late number, we published the _amende_ of the
"Germantown Telegraph," who also copied the story and credited it to an
English magazine. We have another story by the gifted authoress, the first
part of which will be published in our July number, that will convince the
most sceptical that she is one of the most powerful writers of the day.
We have been favored with some of the early sheets of "Alone," and we have
been delighted with their perusal. Our only regret was that we had not the
whole book. We predict a prominent place among the fair writers of America
to the authoress of "Alone." The paper and typographical execution of the
work are a credit to the publisher, Mr. Morris.
* * * * *
OUR PATTERNS.--Ladies do not seem to be aware that these patterns are
_fac-similes_ of the originals in color, trimming, &c. At a distance, they
would be taken for the garment itself. They could be worn in a _tableau_
without being detected.
* * * * *
"PIONEER."--A new magazine from San Francisco. An excellent work, well
printed, and favored with the effusions of Mr. Pipes, of Pipesville, a
most humorous and excellent writer. We exchange with pleasure.
* * * * *
MRS. SHEPARD'S POEMS.--The many friends and admirers of the late Mrs.
Shepard, of Springfield, will be glad to learn that the collection of her
poems, that have been for some time in preparation, has been published by
Bessey & Co., under the attractive title of "CUT-FLOWERS," who now offer
it for sale at their counter, and through their agents. The editor has
presented a brief notice of her life, and an estimate of her literary
character, and, in his selections from her large mass of printed and
manuscript writings, has presented those poems which bear that general
character which is necessary in a volume prepared for the public. The
work is well printed, and well got up every way, and deserves an extended
patronage.--_Daily Republican, Springfield, Mass._
We will answer for it that, if Bessey & Co. have anything to do with it,
it is well done, for theirs is an enterprising firm.
* * * * *
THE third edition of "How to Make a Dress," and the fifth edition of the
"Book of the Toilet," are now ready. We are also able to supply all orders
for our "Gallery of Engravings," at 50 cents each.
* * * * *
THE WORD "SELAH."--The translators of the Bible have left the Hebrew
word Selah, which occurs so often in the Psalms, as they found it; and,
of course, the English reader often asks his minister, or some learned
friend, what it means. And the minister or learned friend has most often
been obliged to confess ignorance, because it is a matter in regard to
which the most learned have, by no means, been of one mind. The Targums,
and most of the Jewish commentators, give to the word the meaning of
_eternally forever_. Rabbi Kimchi regards it as a sign to elevate the
voice. The authors of the Septuagint translation appear to have regarded
it as a musical or rhythmical note. Herder regards it as indicating a
change of tone; Matheson as a musical note, equivalent, perhaps, to
the word _repeat_. According to Luther and others, it means _silence_.
Gesenius explains it to mean, "Let the instruments play and the singer
stop." Wocher regards it as equivalent to _sursum corda_--up, my soul.
Sommer, after examining all the seventy-four passages in which the word
occurs, recognizes in every case "an actual appeal or summons to Jehovah."
They are calls for aid and prayers to be heard, expressed either with
entire directness, or, if not in the imperative, "Hear, Jehovah!" or
"Awake, Jehovah!" and the like, still earnest addresses to God that he
would remember and hear, &c. The word itself he regards as indicating a
blast of trumpets by the priests. Selah, itself, he thinks an abridged
expression used for Higgaion Selah--Higgaion indicating the sound of the
stringed instruments, and Selah a vigorous blast of trumpets.
* * * * *
WE never have "assisted" at one, as the French say; but, from the
description that follows, we should like very well to join a "sugar
party"--a sweet business:--
"MY DEAR GODEY: Did you ever attend an old-fashioned sugar party in the
woods? If you have not, you have missed a pleasant hour, and the enjoyment
of that open-hearted hospitality for which our Eastern farmers are
distinguished. Imagine yourself in a forest of sturdy maples, averaging
from seventy-five to one hundred and twenty-five feet in height, and from
three to five feet in diameter. Before you are two or three large kettles,
hung on a pole, and beneath them is a blazing fire. The kettles are half
full of the amber-colored syrup; and you, with dish and spoon, together
with some fifteen or twenty others, are testing its quality. You enjoy it
heartily, for the parties are all in high spirits, and the woods echo to
the songs that are sung, and the jokes that are perpetrated on all sides.
Around you the violets and arbutus are blooming, and you are induced to
wander away along the paths that wind through the woods in every direction
in search of the flowers that are springing up in their dim recesses. If
you have never attended one of those good old-fashioned sugar parties,
allow me to invite you to visit us another season; and, if you have, you
will be equally welcome.
"H. L. S."
* * * * *
LE CONTINENT EUROPEAN.--Mr. P. Beaugereau, aided by several of his
countrymen, has begun the publication in our city of a French weekly
newspaper. He looks for patronage not only to the French residents in this
section of the country, but to foreigners and Americans who speak or read
French. We wish him a large share of success!
* * * * *
"MRS. HALE'S COOK-BOOK" we will furnish at $1.25, and pay the postage.
Mrs. Hale's "Household Book" on the same terms.
* * * * *
BACK numbers of the "Lady's Book" can be supplied from January, as the
work is stereotyped.
* * * * *
WE have lost a friend in Philip G. Collins, a member of the firm of T. K.
& P. G. Collins, who print the "Lady's Book." We have been acquainted with
him for many years, and had many opportunities of studying him closely.
Few men possessed a clearer mind, or could better express themselves than
Mr. Collins. His reading was very extensive, and his retention wonderful.
We copy the following notice from the "North American" of this city,
written by one who knew him well:--
"PHILIP G. COLLINS.--The demise of Philip G. Collins, of the well-known
firm of T. K. & P. G. Collins, of this city, has left a vacancy in the
ranks of practical printers among us, which few are competent to fill. His
knowledge of his art was equally intimate and exact. He was, we believe,
one of the founders of the Typographical Society, in the welfare of which
he manifested, to the day of his death, a warm interest. His qualities of
head and heart won the esteem of all who knew him; and his loss will be
deeply regretted, not only by his immediate family, but by a large circle
of admiring acquaintances who partook of his friendship."
* * * * *
IN answer to our friend of the "West Philadelphia Reporter," we must say
that we do not wonder that the mistake is made. He will see that when our
name is set in capitals it does make LOUISA GODEY. But that portrait will
show them that we are not of the same gender as Lingos dulcinea.
Amo amas, I love a lass,
As cedar tall and slender;
Sweet cowslip's grace is her nominative case,
And she's of the feminine gender.
* * * * *
"GODEY'S LADY'S BOOK.--We have received this beautiful periodical from its
polite and accomplished editor. It is filled with reading matter of the
highest order, and in engravings it surpasses anything we have seen. In
this department it is far ahead of any other American Magazine. Godey is
particularly fortunate in catering for the literary public, and especially
does he please the ladies. In fact, we believe that about three-fourths
(and a _little over_) of his _fair_ subscribers have fallen in love with
'THAT LIKENESS.' (We hope friend G. will not step out of his boots to be
told so.) No lady's table should be without the 'Book.'"--_Tenn. Christian
Universalist._
No! not a bit! For that would detract from our height, and we have
nothing to spare in that respect. We are only sorry that we published our
likeness at that time. It was taken at a season when few subscriptions are
received. Were it taken now, it would be quite a different-looking affair.
The great influx of subscribers for the last six months has made us look
at least ten years younger--and of course brighter.
* * * * *
YES! that very thing has been bothering us, as our friend of the
"Salisbury Banner" says: "How any man that has a wife can live at peace at
home without subscribing for the 'Lady's Book,' passes our comprehension."
And it does ours. We wish they could not.
* * * * *
WE did not think that our "Book" afforded so good a subject for an
alliteration. The "Genesee Flint Whig" says:--
"It is replete with attractions of every kind that a lady's book ought
to possess. Amusement and instruction, fine arts and fashion, music and
model cottages, nouvellettes and needlework, drawing and domestic recipes,
poetry and patterns--are all interspersed with good taste and judicious
arrangement."
* * * * *
CASHMERE SHAWLS.--The great mart for the wool of which these shawls
are made is at Kilghet, which is said to be a dependency of Ladak, and
situated twenty days' journey from the northern boundaries of Cashmere.
There are two kinds of it--that which can be readily dyed is white; the
other sort is an ashy color, which, being with difficulty changed, or
at least improved by art, is generally woven of its natural hue. About
two pounds of either are obtained from a single goat once a year. After
the down has been carefully separated from the hairs, it is repeatedly
washed with rice starch. This process is reckoned important, and it is to
the quality of the water of their valley that the Cashmerians attribute
the peculiar and inimitable fineness of the fabrics produced there. At
Kilghet, the best raw wool is sold for about one rupee a pound. By the
preparation and washing referred to, it loses one-half, and the remainder
being spun, three rupees' weight of the thread is considered worth one
rupee. Shawls are made of various forms, size, and borders, which are
wrought separately, with the view of adapting them to the different
markets. Those sent to Turkey used to be of the softest and most delicate
texture. Carpets and counterpanes are fabricated of the hair or coarser
part of the wool.
* * * * *
"GODEY'S GALLERY OF STEEL ENGRAVINGS.--We are indebted to the publisher of
'Godey's Lady's Book' for Nos. 1 and 2 of these Splendid Steel Engravings.
Over thirty of the finest are neatly done up in each number, and are
furnished for the low price of fifty cents per number--a very pretty
ornament for the parlor."--_Litchfield Inquirer._
* * * * *
HOW TO MAKE DEAF PERSONS HEAR THE PIANO-FORTE.--The instrument should
be opened, and a rod of deal wood provided about half an inch thick,
three-quarters wide, and long enough to reach from the bridge of the
sounding-board to the mouth of the deaf person. If one end of this rod
be made to rest firmly on the bridge, and the other end be held between
the teeth, the softest sounds will be distinctly communicated.--_Musical
Transcript._
* * * * *
A DEFENCE OF STORY WRITERS.--The "Marysville Advocate" says:--