No. V.

Extracts from the late Mr. Williamsonʼs Journal.

In October, 1845, Mr. Brooke commissioned some of the European gentlemen of his party to make a tour of inspection through the outlying Dyak tribes dependent on Sarāwak, for the purpose of ascertaining their condition and prospects, and taking steps for the redress of any grievances of which they might have to complain. A few extracts from the rough journal kept on that occasion by Mr. Williamson may not be uninteresting to the reader, as showing what a large measure of success had already attended Mr. Brookeʼs wise and earnest efforts to restore peace and plenty to the poor persecuted Dyaks; what incessant vigilance on his part was still requisite to check the inveterate propensity of the knavish Malays to plunder and oppress them; and with what well-directed activity he pursues his labors for the physical welfare and the moral regeneration of his subjects and neighbors.

Wednesday, Oct. 8th.—At 11 A.M. arrived at Pankalum Bunting, where we found about thirty Dyaks in a small hut ready to welcome us, and carry our luggage up to the village. At one oʼclock started for the Bakar village, about five miles from the landing place, at the foot of the Sadong hills. This tribe consists of one hundred families, occupying four villages. There are about twenty-five houses in Mungu Babi (i. e. Hog Hill), the village where we are at present, and five padi stores. It is very recently that the Dyaks have ventured to store their padi in houses. At 8 P.M. attended the feast given in our honor, where we saw the women dancing; they appeared very happy, and pleased to see us.

9th.—This morning we had all the Orang Kayas of the four villages, who informed me they were very comfortable and happy. I told them the object of my mission, at which they all seemed pleased, and said that that if they were oppressed they would come to Sarāwak and complain to the Tuan Besar, When I asked them about the Sadong Dyaks, they said I should hear all when I met them, as they will hide nothing from me.

“The only thing these Dyaks complain of is, that Nakodah Mahomed told them he had the Tuan Besarʼs chop, and gave them to understand that the powder, muskets, &c., in his possession, belonged to the Tuan Besar; in consequence of which they carried these goods for Nakodah Mahomed without receiving any payment for their labor. I told them that in future they need not carry goods for any man coming from Sarāwak, or elsewhere, without due payment in ready money; and that should traders at any time leave their goods in the Dyak houses, they need not be alarmed, but bring the goods to the Tuan Besar and tell him how they were left behind. They further told me that the Siringi wish to claim their siri cave, where they get their birdsʼ-nests which is close to Kumpung, and has belonged to them as long as they can remember; that this cave is a whole dayʼs journey from Siring—how, then, can it belong to the Siringi? I answered, that on my return the Tuan Besar would set the matter right, and give the cave to its proper owners.

Same day.—Proceeded to Jinan, about eight miles distant. There are here fifteen houses, and the Dyaks are very comfortable, having plenty of grain, and being well off for sugar-cane, sweet potatoes, plantains, betel-nut, beside various other fruit-trees. The houses here, as at Mungu Babi, are very shabby.

10th.—This morning met Orang Kaya Kusunan, who told me the Toup Dyaks were waiting half way to receive us. At 4 P.M. I had the Orang Kaya Tumangong of Toup, and the Orang Kaya of Kurran, Si Labi, Si Mabong, Daah, Bugu (Sadong tribes), and the Orang Kaya Pasunan, beside other Dyaks, the Bandar Cassim, with his Sadong Malays, and our own people, at the house where I was staying. I explained my mission to them, and made them understand that, at the Bandarʼs express wish, the Tuan Besar had sent me to them to ascertain their condition. The Bandar then told them it was his wish to institute the same laws and customs as at Sarāwak; after which, I informed the Dyaks that there will be no more forcing of goods on them at exorbitant prices, and that for the future, should any one ‘serra’ them, they must complain to the Bandar, and subsequently lay their case before Mr. Brooke. The conference, I am glad to say, ended to every oneʼs satisfaction.

“At 8 P.M. the Orang Kaya Rih and two others of the same tribe complained to me of their grievances, and told me that Si Tore, a Sadong man, had forced 10 pieces of iron, weighing 15 catties, on them about two years and a half ago, and that he now demanded 100 pasus of padi for it. (This is serra with a vengeance: 100 pasus are equal to 2½ tons weight!) They had paid 10 pasus; should they, they asked me, pay the rest? I told them I would settle the business at Bandar Cassimʼs village.

11th.—The Dyaks gave us a feast last night; the women danced and the merriment was kept up till morning. At 11 started in boats with Bandar Cassim, and at 2 P.M. arrived at his village[1] called * * *, where every thing had been got ready for our reception; a house was well fitted with gay curtains and mats, and after a salute of three guns as we approached, we took up our residence and made ourselves very comfortable. At 7 in the evening we met all the respectable part of the community of this little Malay village. I told them what I was sent for, the Bandar as usual giving way to our wishes, and repeating that Sarāwak and Sadong, and Sadong and Sarāwak, were as one country. I told Si Tore, Sebi Gani, and Sirdeen, that they must make no further demands on the Rih Dyaks, and that neither they nor anybody else could serra the Dyaks any longer—not even the Bandar himself; for they must recollect that the Sadong Dyaks would take refuge in Sarāwak if oppressed.

“After the Bandar had left, the brother-in-law of the Orang Kaya of Sinkaru, together with the Orang Kaya of Si Nankau Kujang, and Orang Kaya Kurang, came to me. The former of these complained that Abang Tahar (the old Patingiʼs son-in-law), about two years ago, forced a small tatawak[2] and one brass dish on them, for which he demanded three Dyaks as slaves, whom he seized at the time and took away, and that now he demanded another Dyak boy. I replied they were on no account to comply, that they must complain to the Bandar; and if he took no notice of it, to go to Sarāwak to the Tuan Besar.

“The Orang Kaya likewise told me that formerly there were twenty-five families in his tribe, but now they were reduced to fifteen, the rest having been seized and sold into slavery! (Here follow other complaints. The dayʼs journal concludes thus:)—The Sinkaru Dyaks have not yet returned to their former Tumbawong,[3] but are scattered about in the jungle and very poorly off. I told them to return to their former place of residence, and to collect the tribes there.

Sunday, 12th.—Orang Kaya Si Rubin and Orang Kaya Signa Mantay, of Rubin, likewise came to me to say that they were scattered, some at * * * some at Bedope, and some at Rubin, and all badly off for grain. When collected, they have about thirty families; formerly they had about fifty. Those missing had mostly been seized and made slaves. At 11h 30m we started for * * * (part of Rubin tribe), where we arrived about half-past two. We found one house with five families in it, and a Pangah[4] attached. Pa Rigan, the * * * of this tribe, told me that Abang Tahar, Abang Ally, Abang Bakar, &c. &c. (all of Gadong, under Patingi Müel), demand from the Dyaks old serras, which have been paid long ago. Dangon, a Sirkaru Dyak, told me that Abang Tahar, a short time since, demanded from his tribe a Dyak boy, and four Dyak boys from the En Singi Dyaks. Bandar Cassim put a stop to these demands at the time; but he has revived them since. The Malays of Sadong, whenever they go among the Dyaks, seize their fowls, eggs, rice, cocoa-nuts, and all sorts of property. The Bandar tells me he never permits these people to go among the Dyaks, but that they do it by stealth over land, and that the Tuan Besar must do something to prevent them from oppressing and frightening the Dyaks. (Here follow other complaints against the Gadong people, after which the journal continues.)

13th.—Girang, a Bedope Dyak of the Rubin tribe, told me how very much he is bullied and troubled by the Gadong people, who are constantly threatening to attack him. I advised him to collect the tribe at Rubin, their old Tumbawong. At 7 started back for the Bandarʼs village, where we arrived at 10 oʼclock. After a bath and breakfast, the Bandarʼs mother came to me with a present of two sarongs, one for the Tuan Besar and one for myself, and begged that I would urge the Tuan Besar to take care of the Bandar as if he were his own son, and not to cast him off. I told her that Mr. Brooke would support the Bandar as long as he conducted himself properly. The Orang Kaya Baga, Orang Kaya Sinching of Milikin, * * * of En Tayen, Orang Kaya Laja of Rahmone, Orang Kaya Rinjou of Sirkaru, Orang Kaya Mior Muntah, Pangara Lilli of Bunan, Orang Kaya Nijou of Mapuh, Orang Kaya Ganggong of En Kelas, and Pangara Achong of En Singi, all met me. I told them the object of my mission in presence of the Bandar and several other Malays, and they were highly delighted. They asked me to allow the Bandar to govern them, as they are much troubled by the Gadong people. Abang Tahar lately demanded four Dyak boys of Pangara Achong, and two from the Orang Kaya of Sirkaru; beside which, the Sadong people seize their property whenever they go among them. They are very poorly off for grain. They asked me for a letter which should prevent people from annoying them. I told them I should represent the matter to the Tuan Besar, and that no doubt he will give his chop to each tribe. They all speak well of Bandar Cassim; but his people are bad, and those at Gadong[5] are worse.

14th.—At 6h 30m started up the river Kayan toward Tumma, having left Talip with nineteen men to return to Sarāwak by way of Samarahan. At 8 we stopped at Mang-garŭt, where the Dyaks presented us with a deer they had caught. These Dyaks are badly off for grain, and it is the same tribe Bandar Cassim attacked in the Goa Siri (siri cave) some few years ago. Orang Kaya Pa Jampat told me, that on that occasion the Bandar seized eight Dyaks and took them with him.[6] The river here begins to be narrow and shallow, with pebbly banks, and clear water. At noon we stopped at Muara Rubin, where we intended to stay a day to inquire for coal, which was stated to have been found in this neighborhood; but as nobody knew the whereabout, and as the Hindoo remains (said to consist of one stone in the shape of a Malay hat) were five hours out of our way, we continued our route till evening, having parted company with the Bandar at Muara Rubin, as I well knew the Tumma Dyaks would be afraid of his approach.

15th.—At daylight started toward Tumma, and at 9 stopped below Muora Sangan, where we breakfasted, after which we pushed up again, and at 1 arrived at Si Sijack, where the Tumma are. Orang Kaya Pa Muany, the chief, told me they were very much bullied, as a Sarāwak man, named Pakar, and Marrat, the father-in-law of Bandar Mulana of Sarāwak, forced upon them a quantity of goods in the name of the Tuan Besar and the Bandar Mulana. (Here follows a list of things, such as gongs, tatawaks, jackets, handkerchiefs, and the like, with the most exorbitant prices affixed to them. The rice and padi had not, however, been paid for.) There are three villages of this tribe; two about 250 yards apart; one of which, containing about ten families, is ruled by the Orang Kaya Pa Muany, and the other, with about thirty families, by the Orang Kaya Mayo and the Orang Kaya Pa Balet. In the other village, about three reaches above, is the Orang Kaya Pa Magong, with ten families. They said they were very comfortable under the Patingi Ali (father of the present Bandar Mulana), but that since Bandar Mulana has succeeded, they have been oppressed. They told me they had run away from Sadong because they heard the Tuan Besar was a just and good rajah, and that all his Dyaks were comfortable, but now they are oppressed. Pakar told them that if they did not take his tatawaks they must not remain here, but run away!

“There are forty families of the Si Nangkan Soyar tribe, and thirteen families of the Tibader tribe. The Orang Kayas told me that, had I not arrived, the rice in payment of the goods forced on them would have been taken down, as Pakar was here hurrying them to carry it to Sanar; but that when he heard of my coming he could not be persuaded to wait and meet me. The following goods have just been returned by the Gregan Dyaks (here follows a long list of goods and prices). Pangara Achong of the En Singi tribe told me that he has one family of his tribe at Gregan, and he wanted them to return with him. I asked the Pangara of Gregan whether this family wished to return, but he did not know. I then told them no one could force them, but that they might do just as they pleased. The Orang Kaya Pa Jampat goes down with me to Kuching to lay before the Tuan Besar a claim made upon him by the Malay Pangeran of Samarahan. Beside which, I take down the Orang Kaya and Pangara of Tumma, Si Markan Singan and Tebadu, together with all the goods forced on them, that the case may be judged by the Tuan Besar.

“Bandar Cassim demands a debt of the Orang Kaya Pa Muany of Tumma; he originally sold them (i. e. forced on them, of course) a gong for 150 pasus of padi, 100 of which was paid; and the question is, whether they were to pay the rest. This was four years ago. I left it for the Tuan Besarʼs decision.” (Here follows a list of goods forced on the Tebadu Dyaks.)[7]

THE END.


[1] The MS. having been under water in the wreck of the Great Liverpool steamer, this name and some others are illegible.

[2] A sort of gong.

[3] Tumbawong is a place they have deserted, or been forced to quit.

[4] A head-house.

[5] Gadong is a small Malay village on the Sadong, considerably nearer the sea than the Bandarʼs village.

[6] This occurred during Seriff Sahibʼs time; the Dyaks were frightfully oppressed.

[7] The goods brought down by Mr. Williamson were on a public trial confiscated, and the parties concerned fined. These Dyaks from their distance and timidity, were afraid to complain, but will in future not be imposed upon. It would be a hopeless task trying to prevent the Malays playing their tricks on the Dyaks; and the only chance of freeing the Dyaks from these exactions is by inspiring them with confidence. In Sarāwak this has been done, and may easily be extended; for the Dyak, though greatly depressed by a course of persecution, I have always found ready to state his complaints whenever he has a hope of redress. The Orong Kaya Pa Jampat of Mang-garŭt was freed of the debt claimed by the Samarahan Pangara; and the other complaints referred to my decision have been either rectified, or steps taken to do justice, and to render the Dyak tribes of Sadong happy and easy.—Note by Mr. Brooke.

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BY WALTER COOPER DENDY.

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This is a learned and elaborate work, in which the writer goes into the investigation of all the phenomena of mind in the erratic operations and phantasies of ghost seeing and spectral hallucinations, and aims to give the true philosophy of all such delusions. He is a medical man of considerable eminence, and has spared no pains in his researches, giving a great number of facts and cases to illustrate his philosophy. The volume will be much sought for, as it is really a desideratum in the world of literature. We know of no work on this subject which lays the same just claim to public attention, or the study of the philosopher.—Christian Advocate and Journal.

The volume before us is both instructive and amusing, and at this particular time, when the extremes of superstition and philosophy have shaken hands, it will be likely to effect an inconceivable amount of good, if properly studied. It is one of the most remarkable productions of the day, and must create an extraordinary degree of interest in the public mind.—Merchantʼs Magazine.

It belongs to that class of writings which you can take up and put down at pleasure, and which may be subjected to repeated readings. The work is pleasant, however, in spite of this—pleasant because of its facts, its numerous details of mystery, its vast collection of anecdote, its developments of diablerie, its tidings from the spiritual world, and the many cases which it brings together of the curious and the wonderful in nature and art, which former ages, and ignorance and superstition, have concluded to consider supernatural. Where science and modern speculation furnish the solution to the mystery, Mr. Dendy couples it with the statements, and the book is thus equally valuable and amusing.—Charleston Transcript.

Here lies a remarkable work; beautiful in its style, and wondrous in its matter. The work is strictly philosophical in its tendency, yet more amusing than a novel.—True American.

This is a book for the lovers of marvels and of mysteries. It contains an immense collection of anecdotes of spectral apparitions, of illusions of vision or of hearing, of striking phenomena exhibited in dreams, in insanity, in trance, or in magnetism, and furnishes many very valuable hints to aid in the solution of these mysteries, by which so many have been bewildered or affrighted. It is written in a style of great ease and elegance, and can not fail to find a very wide circle of welcoming readers.—Albion.

This unique and remarkable book has just been placed on our table; we know its reputation of old; it is an admirable discourse on the subject of supernaturalisms, such as mental illusions, dreams, ghosts, mesmeric phenomena, &c. If any one will but read the first half dozen pages, we will vouch for it he will not neglect the rest of the volume: it is one of the best written books on one of the most curious range of topics that could engage the pen of a writer, or the attention of a reader. It is, in fact, one of the most curious volumes ever perused, upon a series of the most singular subjects, and, in this new and neat form, it will command a vast number of readers.—Sunday Times.

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The only authentic biography of the great composer that is extant in the English language, and the events of his career are replete with useful admonitions and warning to the sons of genius, and they whisper to those whose present claims are not allowed that there is a future full of promise. In his life Mozart was neglected and impoverished, and he went to his grave with more than the bitterness of death crowding on his thoughts, but fame has taken possession of his memory, and among those who move as gods in musical art, few are equal to him, none are superior. This biography possesses an interest for all who feel interested in the great men of the earth. It is not only remarkably well written, but has a completeness about it we have never found before in any life of Mozart.—Louisville Journal.

There is such a charm in this narrative, that the lovers of good biography can not hear of it too soon. We can not conceive a more fascinating story of genius. To a style which would alone have sufficed to the production of an interesting and striking narrative, Mr. Holmes unites a depth of knowledge and musical appreciation very rare and remarkable. We thank him cordially for a most pleasing addition to our standard biographical literature.—Examiner.

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The name of the distinguished author of this work is a sufficient passport to public favor and a sure guarantee to its sterling value, and those who have read Dr. Dickʼs former works will need no recommendation of this book by us. He is not only an original and profound observer of nature, but truly a most excellent Christian philosopher, whose powers of intellect and expanded views of the character of the great Architect of the universe are so eminently calculated to direct the mind not alone to the grandeur, the magnificence, and sublimity of the laws and principles of the material world, but to look through nature up to “Natureʼs God.” It is truly a valuable work.—Farmer and Mechanic.

The merits of this work are of the highest order; Dick is one of the profoundest and purest of modern philosophers.—Western Continent.

Here is the ninth volume presented by this gifted author to the public; the aim of all of which has been to simplify sciences which before have been too often considered as every way above, and therefore unworthy of the attention of ordinary readers. It is specially addressed to private students and the higher schools, and comprises a large amount of new and valuable matter connected with astronomy, and pointing out ways in which the more humble student can in the best way improve the advantages placed in his way.—Auburn Journal.

Let not the inquisitive fear that the intricacies of science or the technicalities of language will obstruct the pleasure they will derive from the study of this book; for the clearness of the authorʼs style, and the elucidation of the one hundred engravings, render it within the scope and comprehension of every intelligent student.—Industrial Record.

The copious use of engravings and of pictorial illustrations, together with the plain, popular explanations, render this book a truly practical work. Dr. Dick is not only thoroughly scientific, but he knows well how to render his acquisitions available to the great body of common readers, by his accurate method and clear descriptions.—Watchman.

We have always been an admirer of the writings of this gentleman, and popularity keeps on his side wherever he is known. He is a profound thinker and a devout Christian. His works all tend to illustrate the simple as well as the sublimest principles of philosophy, and while they instruct, can not fail to enlighten. The present volume comprises illustrations of light and colors, practical descriptions of all kinds of telescopes, the use of the equatorial-transit, circular, and other astronomical instruments, and other topics connected with astronomy. It is illustrated by 100 engravings, and will be found a most valuable book for all classes, but particularly as a work of instruction for youth.—Illustrated Magazine.

VI., VII. The Life of Paul Jones.

BY ALEXANDER SLIDELL MACKENZIE, U. S. N.

2 vols. 12mo, Portrait, Muslin, extra gilt, $1 00.

The history of the naval adventures and victories of Paul Jones forms one of the most romantic chapters in the record of great deeds, and can not fail to attract general and ardent attention, since it relates to the very beginning of the American navy.—Commercial Advertiser.

The various biographies of Paul Jones now extant have been carefully searched by Mr. Mackenzie; as also the log books of Jonesʼs various cruizes and papers in possession of his heirs, with a view to procure a full and authentic collection of facts and incidents for the present work. Thus industriously compiled and stored, and that by an able hand, this edition must necessarily, as it does, possess considerable merit.—Philadelphia Chronicle.

Paul Jones will always be regarded as one of the most daring and gallant heroes who ever made the ocean the theater of their exploits. Such a name can never be forgotten by Americans, nor can the services which he rendered to the cause of American liberty, in its infant struggles, ever pass into oblivion. No better biographer for such a character could have been found than Captain Mackenzie. Familiar with all the details of seamanship, possessing the same bold patriotism which made the career of his hero so illustrious, and being an accomplished and vigorous writer, he has given us a most admirable biography.—Courier and Enquirer.

This is a capital American biography, of an American naval hero, scarcely less renowned and no less gallant and gifted with an heroic spirit than Nelson, the great British admiral. There is scarcely a more stirring life in the whole compass of literature than that of Jones; and the important part he played in giving force and almost life itself to the American navy, then in its earliest infancy, renders his history peculiarly interesting and attractive. No man certainly ever performed more gallant exploits, and few have rendered more important service to the cause of freedom than he. Many of his actions for bravery, skill, and the performance of almost incredible deeds, by apparently the most inadequate means, are scarcely rivalled by any thing in the records of naval history. His life should be familiar to American readers; and in the elegant, forcible, and graphic style of Commander Mackenzie it can not fail to be universally read.—True Sun.

We are glad to see the life of this celebrated man by one competent to write it. His adventures border so much on the marvelous that one is glad to be sure of reading only what is authentic, and that written in a style and language becoming the subject. There is a good moral lesson conveyed in this life of Paul Jones.—Christian Advocate and Journal.

The name and achievements of Paul Jones are indissolubly connected with American history; and his renowned deeds, which made him the terror of the coast of Britain, are among the most romantic in the annals of naval warfare, and impart to this work the highest interest. This is the most complete and authentic biography of Commodore Jones ever published, as all accessible materials have been collected, and are used by Commander Mackenzie with the ability and tact which he possesses as an accomplished scholar and an officer, accomplishments which peculiarly qualify him to write naval biography. A fine portrait of this true naval hero will be found in the first volume.—Baltimore American.

We have read it with some care, and compared it with other biographies, and think it greatly superior to any yet published. It contains a full narrative of all the important events in Jonesʼs eventful career, and yet is less voluminous than previous works.—Highland Courier.

VIII.

The Ascent of Mount Ararat, (ACHIEVED FOR THE FIRST TIME).

BY DR. FRIEDRICH PARROT.

TRANSLATED BY W. D. COOLEY.

12mo, Map and Wood-cuts, Muslin, extra gilt, 50 cents.

This is a most interesting book, both in its description of the country and inhabitants of Central Asia, and in its connection with the remarkable event of our world—the Flood. Mount Ararat, which was ascended by M. Parrot, must ever possess to the Biblical reader most intense interest, as the resting place of the ark after the universal deluge.—Pittsburgh Chronicle.

A work destined, from the intrinsic interest of the subject, and the fullness of detail which is spread before the reader, to a very wide circulation. The idea of ascending Mount Ararat seems to have risen with the traveler to a passion; previous travelers had never accomplished it; the natives of the region looked upon it as impossible; their superstition regarded the inaccessible summit as the mysterious resting place of the ark to this day. How Dr. Parrot approached the region, what adventures he met with by the way, what manners and customs he witnessed, how he twice essayed to reach the sacred peak and turned back, and how on a third attempt he accomplished the feat through difficulties the recital of which has led scientific men still to doubt if the ascent were really performed—may all be read in this compact volume, illustrated by maps and engravings, with every aid to the readerʼs comprehension.—News.

Hardly a subject could have been selected more stirring in its character than “A Journey to Ararat.” Held in equal veneration by Jew, Christian, and Mohammedan, and regarded with superstitious feelings even by the pagan, that mountain has always enjoyed a degree of celebrity denied to any other. Sinai, and Horeb, and Tabor may have excited holier musings; but Ararat “the mysterious”—Ararat, which human foot had not trod after the restorer of our race, and which, in the popular opinion, no human foot would be permitted to tread till the consummation of all things—Ararat the holy, which winged cherubim protected against the sacrilegious approach of mortals, and which patriarchs only were permitted to revisit, appeared in many respects an object of curiosity as unique as it was exciting.—London Athenæum.

It is a highly entertaining work, embodying much historical, geographical, and scientific information, and conveying a knowledge of the character, habits, and manners of the people among whom the author traveled. The ascent of Mount Ararat is so very difficult that many persons have doubted whether the feat was accomplished by Dr. Parrot, but his acknowledged integrity ought to place his claims in this respect above suspicion. The lovers of bold adventure will find in this volume much to gratify their peculiar taste, and the general reader can hardly fail to be pleased with it.—New York Tribune.

This volume has claims upon the public, as a scientific and truly valuable work, which have been possessed by few others. It is, in fact, the condensed narrative of an exploring expedition sent out by the Russian government into the region about Mount Ararat, a region which possesses more interest for scientific men, perhaps, than any other in the world which has been so little explored.—New York Courier.

It reads more like the travels of Von Humboldt than any book we have lately read. The writer is a man of science and observation, and the book we recommend to the public.—Lowell Courier.

IX.

Remarkable Criminal Trials.

TRANSLATED FROM THE GERMAN OF FEUERBACH,

BY LADY DUFF GORDON.

12mo, Muslin, extra gilt, 50 cents.

A book of thrilling interest; one that can not fail to be read with avidity.—New York Courier.

This work abounds with singular cases of criminal jurisprudence in Bavaria, of the most astounding and thrilling interest, the details of which are of remarkable character, and differ essentially from those hitherto familiar to the public in England or this country. They are fully equal, in their absorbing interest, to any thing in the famous “Causes Celebres” of France; and, perhaps, for their unique and striking features, are unexcelled by any delineations of crime elsewhere on record.—True Sun.

Public attention was first drawn to this work by an able and interesting article in the Edinburgh Review. They are all narratives of marvelous interest—more strange and wonderful, many of them, than any work of fiction, and giving to the reader a clear view of the nature and peculiarities of the criminal jurisprudence of Germany.—N. Y. Commercial Advertiser.

Its illustration of the many curious customs of German criminal jurisprudence will be sufficiently startling to the English reader; but, apart from this, the extraordinary subtle discrimination thrown into the narrative of each particular crime gives to the volume, as a mere story book, the intellectual interest, the passion, and all the rich and various coloring of a philosophical romance. The translation is excellent, and a judicious compression of the original has added much to the effect.—London Examiner.

The narratives abound with thrilling interest, setting forth the constant recurrence of crime, detection, and punishment, in which the attention of the reader is roused by the novelty of the scene, and rewarded by the light thrown upon the darkest portion of human nature.—New Bedford Mercury.

This work has been so highly extolled by the Edinburgh Foreign Quarterly and other reviews, that not much need be said of its character and claims to public notice. It presents some of the most remarkable stories of horrible crimes and their exposure we have ever met, and gives a very clear and vivid conception of the peculiarities of German criminal jurisprudence. It is a book which will be universally read, as one of the most thrilling and absorbing interest. The translator has given in the preface a very good account of the criminal law of Germany, and has selected only those portions of the original work which will have the greatest value and interest.—Mirror.

This book is of an entirely different character from works of a similar title that have hitherto appeared. It contains an account of fourteen trials for murder in Germany, and the object of it is to show the peculiar mode of trial instituted by the Bavarian code.—Evening Gazette.

The records of crime are not usually a profitable kind of reading. The contagion of the example is generally greater than the warning of the fate of the criminal; and many a villain has been made by the very means taken to keep him from crime. But as much depends on the manner of the narrative, and as it is possible to extract some of the gravest lessons of virtue and wisdom from the misdeeds of others, it gives us pleasure to state that the present work is unexceptionable in this respect, while the cases possess extraordinary interest, and are replete with instruction. They afford much insight of human motives, and teach impressive lessons of the retributive justice of Providence, and the misery and evil of sin.—Biblical Repository.

X., XI.

Journal of Researches

INTO THE NATURAL HISTORY AND GEOLOGY OF THE COUNTRIES VISITED DURING THE VOYAGE OF H. M. S. BEAGLE ROUND THE WORLD.

BY CHARLES DARWIN, M.A., F.R.S.

2 vols. 12mo, Muslin, extra gilt, $1 00.

This is another most valuable contribution to the cause of popular education, issued in Harperʼs New Miscellany; a series that bids fair to surpass even their Family Library in the sterling excellence and popularity of the works which it renders accessible to all classes of the community. The work contains, in a condensed and popularized form, the results of the British Exploring Expedition, which Mr. Darwin accompanied at the special instance of the lords of the Admiralty. The voyage consumed several years, and was performed at a very heavy expense on the part of the British government. Yet here we have its most important results, divested of all scientific technicalities, and presented in a form at once attractive and accurate. The work is entitled to secure a very wide circulation. It contains an immense amount of information concerning the natural history of the whole world, and is superior, in point of interest and value, to any similar work ever published.—New York True Sun.

A work very neatly issued, and has the interest of a leading subject well developed, the unfailing secret of producing a book of character. In the present state of the world, when new countries are opening every day to the great conqueror, Commerce, such publications are of unusual importance. Perhaps no information, just now, can be of more consequence to us than that which puts us in possession of the movements of English discovery.—News.

This is a most valuable and a most interesting work; one which combines true scientific worth with the graces of style suited to render it popular, better than almost any similar work which has recently come under our notice. The voyage of the Beagle was, in truth, a scientific exploring expedition; and Mr. Darwin accompanied it at the special request of the lords of the Admiralty. Its results have been published in several very elaborate, extensive, and costly volumes in England; but as these were entirely beyond the reach of the great mass of the reading public, Mr. Darwin prepared these volumes, in which all the important results of the expedition are fully, clearly, and distinctly presented, interwoven with a most entertaining narrative of personal incident and adventure.—N. Y. Courier.

This is a work of remarkable interest and value. The author, in circumnavigating the world, under commission of the British government, for scientific and exploring purposes, visited nearly every country on the globe, and preserved in this brief, simple, but beautiful narrative all the singular facts of a scientific, social, or geographical nature which are of general interest. The amount of information condensed in these volumes is incredible; and the skill with which the useful and interesting is selected from that which is unimportant or well known is admirable. We admire the style, the straightforward sincerity of the writer, the apparent candor, and the erudite research which he uniformly exhibits. Without one quarter of the bulk or pretension of our famous exploring expedition, the present work is hardly inferior to it in value and interest. This series is gaining a fine character, of which we hope the publishers will be jealous.—New York Evangelist.

HARPERʼS FAMILY LIBRARY.

Books that you may hold readily in your hand are the most useful, after all.—Dr. Johnson.

The above-named series, extending to 173 volumes, comprises a rich and varied collection of works in the several departments of literature, forming a most valuable circle of useful, instructive, and entertaining knowledge, adapted for popular use. The utmost care has been taken, not only to exclude whatever can have an injurious influence on the mind, but to embrace every thing calculated to strengthen the best and most salutary impressions.

No family ought to be without this library, as it furnishes the readiest resources for that education which ought to accompany or succeed that of the boarding-school or the academy, and is infinitely more conducive than either to the cultivation of the intellect.—Monthly Review.

CONTENTS OF THE SERIES.

1, 2, 3.—MILMANʼS HISTORY OF THE JEWS. $1 20.

4, 5.—HISTORY OF NAPOLEON BONAPARTE. 90 cents.

6.—SOUTHEYʼS LIFE OF LORD NELSON. 45 cents.

7.—LIFE OF ALEXANDER THE GREAT. 45 cents.

8, 74.—NATURAL HISTORY OF INSECTS. 90 cents.

9.—GALTʼS LIFE OF LORD BYRON. Portrait, 40 cents.

10.—BUSHʼS LIFE OF MOHAMMED. Engravings, 45 cents.

11.—SCOTTʼS LETTERS ON DEMONOLOGY. 40 cents.

12, 13.—GLEIGʼS HISTORY OF THE BIBLE. 80 cents.

14.—DISCOVERY IN THE POLAR REGIONS. 45 cents.

15.—CROLYʼS LIFE OF GEORGE IV. 45 cents.

16.—DISCOVERY AND ADVENTURE IN AFRICA. 45 cts.

17, 18, 19, 66, 67.—CUNNINGHAMʼS LIVES OF EMINENT PAINTERS AND SCULPTORS. Portraits, $2 10.

20.—JAMESʼS CHIVALRY AND THE CRUSADES. 45 cts.

21, 22.—LIFE OF MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS. 85 cents.

23.—ANCIENT AND MODERN EGYPT. 45 cents.

24.—FLETCHERʼS HISTORY OF POLAND. 45 cents.

25.—SMITHʼS FESTIVALS, GAMES, AND AMUSEMENTS, ANCIENT AND MODERN. 45 cents.

26.—BREWSTERʼS LIFE OF SIR ISAAC NEWTON. 45 cts.

27.—RUSSELLʼS PALESTINE. 45 cents.

28.—MEMESʼS MEMOIRS OF JOSEPHINE. 45 cents.

29.—COURT AND CAMP OF BONAPARTE. 45 cents.

30.—LIVES AND VOYAGES OF DRAKE, CAVENDISH, AND DAMPIER, Account of the Bucaniers, &c. 45 cents.

31.—BARROWʼS DESCRIPTION OF PITCAIRNʼS ISLAND, &c. 45 cents.

32, 72, 84.—SACRED HISTORY OF THE WORLD. $1 35.

33, 34.—JAMESONʼS FEMALE SOVEREIGNS. 80 cents.

35, 36.—LANDERSʼ TRAVELS IN AFRICA. 90 cents.

37.—ESSAY ON THE INTELLECTUAL POWERS. 45 cts.

38, 39, 40.—LIVES OF CELEBRATED TRAVELLERS. $1 25.

41, 42.—LIFE OF FREDERIC THE GREAT. 90 cents.

43, 44.—SKETCHES FROM VENETIAN HISTORY. 90 cts.

45, 46.—THATCHERʼS INDIAN BIOGRAPHY. 90 cents.

47, 48, 49.—MURRAYʼS BRITISH INDIA. $1 35.

50.—BREWSTERʼS NATURAL MAGIC. 45 cents.

51, 52.—TAYLORʼS HISTORY OF IRELAND. 90 cents.

53.—DISCOVERY IN NORTH AMERICA. 45 cents.

54.—HUMBOLDTʼS TRAVELS. 45 cents.

55, 56.—EULERʼS NATURAL PHILOSOPHY. 90 cents.

57.—POPULAR GUIDE TO THE OBSERVATION OF NATURE. 45 cents.

58.—ABERCROMBIEʼS MORAL FEELINGS. 40 cents.

59.—DICK ON IMPROVEMENT OF SOCIETY. 45 cents.

60.—JAMESʼS HISTORY OF CHARLEMAGNE. 45 cents.

61.—RUSSELLʼS NUBIA AND ABYSSINIA. 45 cents.

62, 63.—RUSSELLʼS OLIVER CROMWELL. 90 cents.

64.—MONTGOMERYʼS LECTURES ON POETRY. 45 cts.

65.—BARROWʼS LIFE OF PETER THE GREAT. 45 cents.

FOR FAMILY READING.

X. RECOLLECTIONS OF A HOUSEKEEPER.

BY MRS. C. GILMAN.—18mo, muslin gilt, 45 cents.

XI. THE MAYFLOWER; OR, SKETCHES OF SCENES AND INCIDENTS AMONG THE DESCENDANTS OF THE PILGRIMS.

BY MRS. HARRIET B. STOWE.—18mo, muslin gilt, 45 cents.

A series of beautiful and deeply interesting tales, remarkable for a rigorous yet disciplined imagination, a lively and pure style, and their high moral tone. They are books which will interest mature readers as well as children and youth. As an author she will take her place among that fine and elevated class to which Miss Sedgwick and Mrs. Child belong; authors whose writings unite with the graces of composition a deep sympathy with all that is human, and a noble philanthropy.—Biblical Repository.

XII. CONQUEST AND SELF-CONQUEST; OR, WHICH MAKES THE HERO?

18mo, muslin gilt, 37½ cents.

An admirable volume; admirable in style, in sentiment, and in tendency.—Courier and Enquirer.

XIII.

THE COUSINS. A TALE OF EARLY LIFE.

By the Author of “Conquest and Self-Conquest.”—18mo, 37½ cents.

We have read this volume with unmingled satisfaction. It is replete with instruction, not only for the young, but for all who are concerned to know and judge their motives of life. We thank the author for her nice and interesting discriminations between the motives of conduct. Indeed, we do not know of any works of this description from the American press which are entitled to a more just popularity than those which have proceeded from the pen of this writer. They place her beside the Edgeworths, and the Barbaulds, and the Opies, who have so long delighted and instructed our children and us.—New-York Observer.

XIV. PRAISE AND PRINCIPLE; OR, FOR WHAT SHALL I LIVE?

By the Author of “Conquest and Self-Conquest.”—18mo, 37½ cents.

A book most worthy to be put into the hands of youth engaged in their educational course, and can not but inspire the love of truth and goodness for their own sakes.—Biblical Repository.

This little work is designed to inculcate upon the minds of youth the importance of a steadfast adherence to principle in the concerns of life; and among “children of a larger growth” its perusal may afford both pleasure and improvement.—Bedford Mercury.

107, 108.—PARRYʼS THREE VOYAGES. 90 cents.

109, 110.—LIFE OF DR. JOHNSON. 90 cents.

111.—BRYANTʼS AMERICAN POETS. 45 cents.

112, 113.—HALLECKʼS BRITISH POETS. 90 cents.

114, 115, 116, 117, 118.—KEIGHTLEYʼS HISTORY OF ENGLAND. $2 25.

119, 120.—HALEʼS UNITED STATES. 90 cents.

121, 122.—IRVINGʼS LIFE OF GOLDSMITH. 90 cents.

123, 124.—DISTINGUISHED MEN OF MODERN TIMES. Portraits, 90 cents.

125.—LIFE OF DE WITT CLINTON. 45 cents.

126, 127.—LIFE OF COMMODORE OLIVER H. PERRY. Portrait, 90 cents.

128.—LIFE AND TRAVELS OF BRUCE. 45 cents.

129.—LIVES OF JAY AND HAMILTON. 45 cents.

130.—BREWSTERʼS LIVES OF GALILEO, TYCHO BRAHE, AND KEPLER. 45 cents.

131.—HISTORY OF ICELAND, GREENLAND, AND THE FAROE ISLANDS. 45 cents.

132.—MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE JAPANESE IN THE NINETEENTH CENTURY. 45 cents.

133.—DWIGHTʼS HISTORY OF CONNECTICUT. 45 cents.

134, 135.—RUINS OF ANCIENT CITIES. 90 cents.

136, 137.—HISTORY OF DENMARK. 90 cents.

138.—CAMP ON DEMOCRACY. 45 cents.

139.—LANMANʼS MICHIGAN. 45 cents.

140.—FENELONʼS ANCIENT PHILOSOPHERS. 45 cents.

141, 142.—COUNT SEGURʼS EXPEDITION TO RUSSIA. Map, 90 cents.

143, 144.—HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY. 90 cents.

145.—BUCKEʼS BEAUTIES OF NATURE. 45 cents.

146.—LIEBERʼS ESSAYS ON PROPERTY. 45 cents.

147.—WHITEʼS HISTORY OF SELBORNE. 45 cents.

148.—WRANGELLʼS EXPEDITION TO SIBERIA. 45 cts.