THE BOOK TRADE.

1.-History of the Polk Administration. By LUCIEN B. CHASE, member of the Twentyninth and Thirtieth Congress. 8vo., pp. 512. New York: George P. Putnam.

The administration of Mr. Polk is probably unsurpassed by any previous one, in the grandeur of its enterprises, or the brilliancy of their accomplishment. The conquest of Mexico, the acquisition of California, the settlement of the Northern Boundary, the adoption of a new Commercial system, the Reduction of Postage, and the opening of new and vast routes of postal communication, belong to a class of national measures, so wide, so far-reaching, and so weighty, that their progress attracted every eye, and their adoption touched every interest. It is for this reason that the influence of Mr. Polk's administration is so vast, so immeasurable, and even, as yet, so partially developed. Amid such gigantic operations, there were likewise mistakes and errors, which were serious, widely pervading, though never disastrous. To take up such a subject, and do justice to its merits, in a single volume, requires a comprehensiveness, and grasp of intellect, a condensation of thought, a force and energy of style, which belongs only to the most cultivated and talented writers. Highly as we have ever esteemed the abilities of the author of this interesting volume, we must confess that we were not prepared for such a successful and brilliant accomplishment of his great task, as he has here pre sented to us. The great measures of Mr. Polk's term; their nature and extent; the causes that led to their introduction; the embarrassments and obstructions that beset their progress; the difficulties that were vanquished, and the circumstances of success, that were even created by foresight and judgment; their successful achievement, with the strong approbation of the nation, are portrayed with a fullness, a discrimination, and a justness, which renders this work not only the most correct and best general history which we have of that period, but probably places it beyond the reach of a competitor. The statement of facts appear to be prepared with much care, as it regards their correctness; and for this the author possessed unusual advantages, as he was a a distinguished member of Congress during the entire period. The work is remarkably free from partizan bias, and the errors of Mr. Polk are related without qualification or extenuation. It is also entirely free from anything like bitter, or party epithets, and the dignity of the historian is preserved throughout. As a historical work, in itself; as a history of a most important period of our national existence; as a collection, even, of some of the most interesting events in our career, delineated with much urbanity and graphic richness of style, this volume should be sought and obtained by every patriotic American citizen.

2.—Orations and Speeches. By CHARLES SUMNER. Two vols. 12mo., pp. 410 and 482. Boston: Ticknor, Reed & Fields.

The

The orations of Mr. Sumner belong to the literature of America, They are as far superior to the endless number of orations and speeches which are delivered throughout the country, as the works of a polished, talented, and accomplished author surpass the ephemeral productions of a day. Pure, and highly classical in style, strong in argument, and rich and glowing in imagery, and, in some parts, almost reaching the poetic, they come to the reader always fresh, always interesting and attractive. In one respect, these orations surpass almost all others. It is in the elevation of sentiment, the high and lofty moral tone and grandeur of thought which they possess. In this particular, united with their literary merit, these productions have no equal among us. one on the "True Grandeur of Nations," stands forth by itself, like a serene and majestic image, cut from the purest Parian marble. Those on "Peace and War," and two or three others, possess equal merit, equal beauty, and equal purity and dignity of thought. In our view, these orations approach nearer the models of antiquity than those of any other writer amongst us, unless it be Webster, whom Sumner greatly surpasses in moral tone and dignity of thought. 3.-Faust: A Dramatic Tale BY GOETHE, notes. By A. HAYWARD. 12mo., pp. 322. It should be enough to say of this volume that it is a third edition; for such a circumstance is certain evidence that a translator has done his task well. This charming dramatic piece of Goethe's would be acceptable in any dress; but in its present style, accompanied by a rich store of notes, and a valuable introduction, it forms one of the best editions that can be put into the hands of those who are not familiar with the

German.

Translated into English prose, with Boston: Ticknor, Reed& Fields.

4.-The American Edition of Boydell's Illustrations of Shakspeare. Part 27. New York: S. Spooner.

This part contains two prints which show how admirably the original engravings have been restored to all their pristine beauty. The first of these represent a scene in the fourth act of the Tempest, which was painted by Joseph Wright, who was one of the most distinguished artist's of his day. His works are held in the highest estimation, and though numerous, they are to be found only in the collections of the nobility and gentry of England. The composition of this picture is highly poetical and effective. Prospero stands in the centre of the picture with his magic wand poised in his hand. His countenance is angry, for he has just discovered the foul conspiracy against his life by Caliban, who is leading on the drunken butler and jester to kill him, and get possession of the island. They are seen in the distance. Ferdinand is wrapt with the splendor of the vision, delighted with the benedictions, while the gentle Miranda hangs upon her lover with transports of innocence and affection. The other picture is from a painting by F. Wheatley, which represents Ferdinand and Miranda playing at chess. It is very beautiful. So indeed are all those engravings. These illustrations of Shakspeare are, without doubt, the most splended production of art which has ever been published in this country.

5.-Professor Andrews' Edition of Freund's Latin Lixicon. New York: Harper & Brothers.

This long expected work is now announced by Messrs. Harper & Brothers, to whose indefatigable enterprise in bringing out the highest class of standard educational manuals, the American public is deeply indebted. The Lexicon of Freund is acknowledged, by universal consent, to stand at the head of modern works on this branch of Latin philology. As a dictionary for every-day use, in the study of the Roman classics, as well as for occasional reference, its merits can hardly be exaggerated. It should be in the hands of every student who wishes to become familiar with the beauty and force of the Latin language, by the shortest and most effective method. The manner in which Professor Andrews and his erudite coadjutors have performed their part in this noble edition, leaves nothing to be desired by the most fastideous. We trust that it will speedily attract the attention both of teachers and students, and aid the cause of good learning in this country by its wide circulation.

6.-Lives of the Queen's of Scotland and English Princesses Connected with the Regal succession of Great Britain. By AGNES STRICKLAND. 12mo., pp. 374. New York: Harper & Brothers.

This is the first volume of the series which will comprise the lives of Margaret Tudor, Magdalene of France, Mary of Lorraine, and Mary Stuart. The author is already well known to the public as having prepared a most delightful series of the Lives of the Queens of England. The present work is written with equal beauty of style, richness of imagination, and truthfulness of delineation, and is not excelled in interest or attractiveness even by the former. The contents embrace, likewise, much that has not before been presented to the public, having been brought to light within a recent date; at the same time it appears that the facilities which were presented to the author for collecting her materials were of no ordinary kind, and they have resulted in adding greatly to the value of her volumes.

7.-The Bards of the Bible. By GEORGE GILFILLAN. 12mo., pp. 378. New York: D. Appleton & Co., and Harper & Brothers.

This is without question the ablest and most eloquent work on the poetry of the bible which has yet appeared. The author has sought to catch somewhat of the seraphic fire which inspired those divine minstrels, and has thus, in a measure, rendered his work a prose poem. His appreciation of their beauties is discriminating, careful, and generally just and correct. It must be admitted, however, that in some parts he has overwrought and somewhat strained his subject.

8.-The Island World of the Pacific. By Rev. HENRY T. CHEEVER. With engravings. 12mo., pp. 406. New York: Harper & Brothers.

This volume consists of the personal narrative and results of travel through the Sandwich Islands, and other parts of Polynesia. It enters sufficiently into details to afford a correct index of society in the places visited by the author, as well as the productions and features of the islands. It is written in a pleasant narrative style, and will be found agreeable and entertaining in perusal.

9.-History and Geography of the Middle Ages. For Colleges and Schools. Chiefly from the French. By GEORGE W. GREENE. Part 1, History. 12mo., pp. 454. New York: D. Appleton & Co.

This volume is taken chiefly from a very popular French work, which has rapidly passed through several editions, and received the sanction of the University. It contains a clear and ample exposition of the revolutions of the Middle Ages, with such reviews of Literature, Society, and Manners, as are required to explain the passage from Ancient to Modern History. It likewise attempts to show the character of that Pontifical influence which controls so many important facts in this period, and to point out the origin and progress of the constitutions and governments of modern society. At the head of each chapter there is an analytical summary, and, instead of a single list of sovereigns, full genealogical tables have been inserted. The design of the author, which is to promote a taste for historical studies in colleges and schools, is worthy of high commendation; and the successful manner in which he has prepared this volume, cannot fail to receive very general approbation.

10.—Practical Mercantile Correspondence: a Collection of Modern Letters of Business, with Notes, Critical and Explanatory, and an Appendix, containing pro forma Invoices, Account Sales, Bills of Lading, and Bills of Exchange. By WM. ANDERSON. 12mo., pp. 279. New York: D. Appleton & Co.

We have looked through this work with much pleasure; for although it consists of a mass of genuine business correspondence, it is, however, well written, and is unquestionably one of the best works of its class. It will be found highly useful to young men who are designed for business pursuits, the best perhaps that has as yet been published. It is strictly suited to form the youthful mind to habits of business and to familiarize it with the objects to which its future energies are to be directed. 11.-The Women of Israel. By GRACE AGUILAR. Two vols. 12mo., pp. 270 and 336. New York: D. Appleton & Co.

These volumes are truly what their title indicates-biographical sketches of the celebrated women of the Old Testament; they include, likewise, much information regarding the condition of women in Hebrew society. It is sufficient to say that these sketches are written by one of the number to whom they relate, and for beauty of thought, and felicity of expression, and that charming pathos which only the accomplished female heart can breathe, they are unequaled by any writers on these subjects. 12.-Greek Ollendoff; being a Progressive Exhibition of the Principles of the Greek Grammar; designed for beginners in Greek, and as a Book of Exercises for Academies and Colleges. By ASAHEL C. KENDRICK, Professor of Greek in the Rochester University. 12mo., pp. 371. New York: D. Appleton & Co.

This volume contains the first rigid application of that system to the Greek language, so far as the peculiarities of the Greek would permit; and it differs from other elementary works in the greater simplicity of its plan, and in the methodical exposition of the principles of the language. It appears to be particularly adapted to fix in the mind of the student to those minute yet important points which are indispensable to a thorough and complete knowledge of this wonderful language.

13.-To Love, and to be Loved. A story. By A. S. ROE. New York: D. Appleton & Co.

This is an exceedingly attractive tale, the scenes of which are laid chiefly in New York. It illustrates the richness and the depth of the happiness that may be produeed by the mutual cultivation of love among individuals.

Edited by R. M.

14.-The Illustrated Atlas and Modern History of the World. MARTIN. Parts 34, 35 and 36. New York: John Tallis & Co. This is, unquestionably, one of the best atlases that has been published. Each map is embellished with several beautiful illustrations of scenes and characters of each country. These parts contain maps of Northern Africa, Western Africa, Polynesia, Thibet, Mongola, Mundchouvia, Western Australia, and the islands of the ocean. 15.-The Art Journal. December, 1850. New York: George Virtue.

This is a very beautiful number. It is illustrated with some fine engravings, which are, perhaps, as meritorious as any that have preceded them. As a specimen of art, aside from the interesting matter which it contains in relation to the fine arts, it is the best publication of its class.

16.-Success in Life. The Mechanic. By Mrs. L. C. TUTHILL. 12mo., pp. 171. New York: George P. Putnam.

This volume is prepared for the purpose of stimulating the mechanic to higher and nobler efforts for success in life. It abounds with incidents and occurrences in the lives of successful and eminent mechanics of former days, which are interwoven with much scientific and general information that possess a direct interest for individuals in those pursuits. Its perusal will afford pleasure, as well as profit. It is the third volume upon the leading subject of "Success in Life," by the same author. The former ones were entitled "The Lawyer," and "The Merchant;", and though we are not accustomed to look to female writers for works upon these general subjects, yet all views from such a source might be expected to contain novelty, if not instruction. In this instance, the author has been very successful in both particulars.

17.-Vala. A mythological tale. By PARKE GODWIN. Imperial 8vo. New York: George P. Putnam.

This little tale, with its beautiful language, and beautiful thoughts and illustrations, is, unquestionably, the gem of the season. It is sketched with great chasteness and refinement of imagination, and illustrated with many quaint and striking designs. It cannot fail to please every one.

18.-The Girlhood of Shakspeare's Heroines. By MARY COWDEN CLARKE. 18mo., pp. 90. Part 1. New York: George P. Putnam.

The design of this series is to imagine the possible circumstances surrounding the infant life of Shakspeare's heroines. This number is written with much beauty of style and sentiment, and presents quite an attractive portrait of "Portia, The Heiress of Belmont."

19. The Leather-Stocking Tales. Vol. 5. The Prairie. By J. FENIMORE COOPER. 12mo., pp. 478. New York: George P. Putnam.

This is a continuation of the series of Cooper's novels, which is prepared under the special revision of the author. It is issued in a tasteful style, and is more complete than any former edition.

20.-The Mother's Recompense. By GRACE AGUILAR. 12mo., pp. 400. New York: D. Appleton & Co.; and 8vo., pp. 194. Harper & Brothers.

The name of the author of this volume is sufficient to determine the nature and excellence of its contents. Possessing a highly cultivated spirit herself, she has enriched this volume with beautiful illustrations of the delightful results that follow the careful cultivation of the virtues and graces of woman's heart. It will be read with an applauding satisfaction. The style of the author is polished and vigorous, and she at once enkindles the interest of her readers, and retains it to the last.

21.-Henry Smeaton; a Jacobite Story of the Reign of George the First. By G. P. R. JAMES. 8vo., pp. 154. New York: Harper & Brothers.

It is sufficient to mention the name of the author of this work, whose writing s are always good, in respect both to moral tendency and useful information.

22.-Polyglot Pocket-Book, for English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese Conversation; for the Use of Students and Travelers. Compiled by J. STRAUSE, Professor of Modern Languages. New York: William Radde.

This work has evidently been compiled with care. Based on the "Guide of Hamoniere," it is designed to assist the merchant and the man of letters, as well as persons employed in arts, sciences, handicrafts, navigation, etc.,-helping the lady in the daily details of her household and of her toilet-the student in acquiring those languages he intends to make use of the traveler in the successful performance of his journey, &c. It must, we think, prove an almost indispensable vade mecum to the unlettered as well as the lettered traveler. Editors who wish to make a display of learning, and embellish their paragraphs with words and phrases from the five leading languages of Europe, will do well to keep a copy of the work by them.

23.-The Life and Correspondence of Robert Southey. Edited by his Son. Part VI 8vo.

This number closes the work, and forms a handsome volume of 577 pages. It is an excellent work, and will not only entertain and improve the reader, but very much enhance the estimation in which the poet Southey is at present held.

271

24.-The Life and Correspondence of John Foster. Edited by J. E. RYLAND. With Notices of Mr. Foster as a Preacher, and a Companion. By JOHN SHEPPARD. In 2 vols., 12mo., pp. 306 and 388. Boston: Gould & Lincoln.

This memoir of the celebrated John Foster is compiled chiefly from his letters, which abound in references to himself, and the subjects in which he took deepest interest, to such an extent, that little more than a proper selection and arrangement has been necessary to form them into a continuous narrative. It evidently comprises everything of importance in relation to the incidents of his life or the works of his pen. It is prepared with all the enthusiasm of a friend, who, whilst he had the courage fully to state all the views and the opinions of Mr. Foster, has yet been careful not to soften or color them, although he might differ with him. It perhaps may be advanced as an objection to the work, that it is too full and copious; but this can hardly have the weight of an objection with those who appreciate and admire him.

25.-Hungary and Transylvania; with Remarks on their Condition, Social, Political, and Economical. By JOHN PAGOT. From the new London edition. 2 vols., 12mo., pp. 324 and 324. Philadelphia: Lea & Blanchard.

The author of this work, feeling a great interest in the prosperity of Hungary, has written it for the purpose of benefiting her by disseminating a more intimate knowledge of her institutions and customs throughout the world. He has visited the country on several occasions, and resided in it nearly ten years, during which he traveled, over the greater part of it. He became intimate with the most intelligent citizens, and spared no pains or labor to inform himself in relation to this interesting nation. The reader will find in these volumes a storehouse of information respecting the Hungarians. It is prepared with much care, and written in a very agreeable and pleasant style, and is, beyond question, the most important work on the subject which has lately appeared.

26.-Geology and Industrial Resources of California. By PHILIP T. TYSON. 8vo., pp. 36. Baltimore: Wm. Minifie.

This volume comprises the valuable reports that have been made to the United States Topographical Bureau, by Mr. Tyson, and the official communications of Generals P. F. Smith and B. Riley, accompanied by reports of explorations in various parts of California and Oregon. The information is unquestionably of the most accurate and reliable character, and probably more valuable than any which has thus far been put into the hands of the public in relation to that portion of the country. The work is worthy of better paper and style of publication than that in which it has been issued.

27-A Guide to Scientific Knowledge of Things Familiar. By Rev. Dr. BREWER. 18mo., pp. 426. New York: C. S. Francis.

This little volume is prepared in the form of questions and answers. These are extended to nearly two thousand, and they relate to all the ordinary phenomena of nature, which are so constantly taking place before our eyes, that the reason of their existence is too seldom thought of. It is prepared expressly for the use of schools and families; and while it is quite free from common and trite subjects, it is rich in useful and entertaining knowledge, and will prove a genuine treasure to every youth of an inquisitive turn of mind.

28.-The Restoration of the Jews, with the Political Destiny of the Nations of the World, as Foretold in the Prophecies of Scripture. By SETH LEWIS, late District Judge of Louisiana. 12mo., pp. 204. New York: J. S. Redfield.

The author of this work was a strong-minded and intelligent man, and in the exposition of his views he shows an intimate and profound knowledge of scripture. He is convinced of the literal fulfillment of prophecy, and believes that the restoration of the Jews, the second advent of the Messiah, the first judgment, and the overthrow of all nations will occur at nearly the same time, and this before the end of the present century.

29.-The New Dido: an Honest Laugh at "Honest" People. No. 1. 12mo., pp. 24. New York: Henry Kernot.

This little satire contains many pointed hits. It is written with much humor and vivacity, and is worth a perusal.