The author of this Biographical Memoir has arranged the scattered fragments of Histories, Lives, Anecdotes, and Notices, manuscript or print, of one of the most extraordinary characters that ever appeared in the world, in any age or country;—being full of contradictions, yet consistent; a promoter of literature, arts, and sciences, yet without education; “he gave a polish,” says Voltaire, “to his nation, and was himself a savage;” he taught his people the art of war, of which he was himself ignorant; from the first glance of a cock-boat, five hundred miles from the sea, he became an expert ship-builder, created a fleet, partly constructed with his own hands, made himself an expert sailor, a skilful pilot, a great captain: in short, he changed the manners, the habits, the laws of the people, and the very face of the country.
SKETCHES OF IMPOSTURE, DECEPTION, AND CREDULITY.
Credulity is so comprehensive a term, that greater difficulties are encountered in selecting than multiplying examples. These “Sketches” take an extensive range over the Pagan superstitions—tell of pretended Messiahs, false prophets, and mock miracles—describe Hindoo and other Oriental deceptions in religious worship—relate of royal impostors, military stratagems, literary cheats, and commercial bubbles—unfold the mysteries of thefts and forgeries, and conclude with an interesting account of the delusions of alchemy and medical frauds. The work may be considered as a supplement to Scott’s “Letters on Demonology,” and Brewster’s on “Natural Magic.”
THE CHRONICLES OF LONDON BRIDGE.
By An Antiquary. Illustrated.
This is an original work, and the reader will at once perceive that the “Nominis umbra” of “An Antiquary” conceals a mind of no ordinary mould—the possessor of no common store of erudition. A velvet cushion has been the nucleus of the History of the Reformed Church—a library chair that of a history of literature. In this volume London Bridge is selected as the bond that is to bind, the avenue that is to lead from, ancient to modern London. Much valuable civic history and legend is here adorned with language, precise, classical, and nervous; while the illustrations, fifty-six in number, present more perfect reminiscences of society and manners in the olden time than the most technical and laboured descriptions.
THE LIFE OF ALEXANDER THE GREAT.
By the Rev. John Williams, M.A.,
Head Master of the Edinburgh Academy. Map and Woodcuts.
This volume fills a blank in the Historical Library, and furnishes a capital school-manual. It is not confined to the mere exploits of the Macedonian hero, but contains a masterly view of the times in which he lived, and of the manners, customs, etc. of the Greeks, Persians, Egyptians, Arabs, and Indians, and other nations. The whole story is told in a manner calculated to stimulate the curiosity and rouse the reflection of the youthful reader.