Chapter III: Part 3

=478. With Wolfe in Canada.= By G. A. HENTY. (Blackie) 6_s._

Valuable details of the conquest.

=479. A Great Treason.= By M. HOPPUS.

Too long and involved, but showing the state of society in the American war, especially the desertion of Arnold and the death of André.

=480. Lionel Lincoln.= By FENIMORE COOPER. To be had in cheap form.

The siege of Boston.

=481. Mother Molly.= By F. M. PEARD. (Bell) 5_s._

An admirable alarm of a French invasion at Plymouth. Very life-like.

=482. The Prisoner’s Daughter.= By ESMÉ STUART. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

French prisoners at Winchester.

=483. Clare Saville.= (Warne) 2_s._

The days of the Blanketeers and of the Peninsular war.

=484. How They were Caught in a Trap.= By ESMÉ STUART. (Marcus Ward) 5_s._

English prisoners detained in France by Napoleon I.

=485. Against the Stream.= By the Author of ‘Chronicles of the Schönberg-Cotta Family.’ (S.P.C.K.) 4_s._

The course of opinion and improvement in England during the reign of George III.

_TALES FROM GENERAL HISTORY._

This is a brief list, but only those have been selected which
have an interest as tales, apart from the history they are
meant to illustrate.

=486. Two Thousand Years Ago.= By Prof. CHURCH. (Blackie) 6_s._

The adventures of a Roman lad in the days of Cæsar and Cicero.

=487. Good King Wenceslas.= By L. SCHEKKY. (S.P.C.K.) 4_d._

Why this is called a tale of old English life in the S.P.C.K. catalogue there is no guessing. Wenceslas is the King of Bohemia, well known in the ‘Christmas Carol.’

=488. The Little Duke.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._

Richard the Fearless of Normandy.

=489. Brothers in Arms.= (Church Extension Society) 2_s._ 6_d._

The piteous story of the children’s crusade.

=490. The King of a Day.= By F. WILFORD. (Masters) 1_s._

A well-told tale of a little twelfth-day king in the fifteenth century.

=491. The Constant Prince.= By C. R. COLERIDGE. (Walter Smith) 2_s._ 6_d._

The noble history of the prisoner Dom Fernando, the Christian Regulus of Portugal.

=492. The Dove in the Eagle’s Nest.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

German barons under Maximilian.

=493. The Schönberg-Cotta Family.= (Nelson) 5_s._

The early days of Luther.

=494. In the Olden Time.= By the Author of ‘Mlle. Mori.’ (Longmans) 2_s._ 6_d._

The days of the peasants’ war in Germany.

=495. Espérance; or, The Siege of Rouen.= By M. BRAMSTON. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

=496. For Faith and Fatherland.= By M. BRAMSTON. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._ 6_d._

The above two are Reformation tales in France and Holland.

=497. The Chaplet of Pearls.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

The massacre of St. Bartholomew and its consequences.

=498. The Thorn Fortress.= By M. BRAMSTON. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

The retreat of some villagers to a hiding-place in the forests during the Thirty Years’ War, and the doings of a little girl captured by a Croat. An unusually charming book.

=499. The Little Blue Lady.= By Mrs. MITCHELL. (Masters) 4_s._ 6_d._

A pretty story, though scarcely natural, of the brighter days of Marie Antoinette.

=500. Seeketh not her Own.= By S. M. SITWELL. (Shaw) 3_s._ 6_d._

The story of the Lagaraye Hospital very well told.

=501. Isabeau’s Hero.= By ESMÉ STUART. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

The revolt of the Cevennes, with the brave deeds of Cavalier.

=502. By Fire and Sword.= (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

A powerful portrait of the Huguenot persecution under Louis XV.

=503. The Blue Ribbons.= By A. H. DRURY. (See No. 80.)

A charming story of Marie Antoinette acting fairy to a little boy.

=504. Through Rough Waters.= By F. M. PEARD. (Bell) 5_s._

The rough waters are those of the first French Revolution.

=505. Max Krömer.= By HESBA STRETTON. (R.T.S.) 1_s._ 6_d._

The siege of Strasburg in the Franco-German war.

=506. Kenneth; or, The Rear Guard of the Grand Army.= By C. M. YONGE. (Parker) 5_s._

The retreat from Moscow.

=507. The Young Breton Volunteers.= By M. WILBRAHAM. (Masters) 1_s._

A rising of La Vendée against Napoleon in the Hundred Days.

=508. Mademoiselle Mori.= (Longmans) 2_s._ 6_d._

An able and touching picture of the Italian struggles of 1848.

=509. In Time of War.= By J. F. COBB. (Griffith, Farran, & Co.)

The siege of Paris first by Prussians and then by Communists.

MYTHOLOGY.

If we wish the young generation to understand more about
allusions than is conveyed in the foot-notes of their School
Readers, we must let them have access to a few books containing
the more remarkable myths. I do not recommend Sir George Cox’s,
as the reducing them to the supposed Aryan origin of natural
phenomena mars the pleasure of reading them. The best books are:

=510. The Heroes.= By C. KINGSLEY. (Macmillan) 6_s._

The earlier myths are here told to perfection. The only pity is that there are not more of them.

=511. Tanglewood Tales: and the Wonder Book.= By N. HAWTHORNE. (Routledge) 2 vols. 2_s._ each, or 1 vol. 3_s._ 6_d._

Several of these are on the same subjects as those of Kingsley, but told with less deference to the original outline. Prometheus and Midas are specially memorable for the _point_ given them. I have seen Midas delight clever village children and utterly perplex dull ones.

=512. Stories from Heathen Mythology.= By Rev. J. M. NEALE. (Masters) 2_s._

Simply and charmingly told.

=513. Greek Hero Stories.= By NIEBUHR. (Shaw) 2_s._ 6_d._

These are translated from the German in which Niebuhr told them to his little son.

=514. The Heroes of Asgard.= By A. and E. KEARY. (Macmillan) 2_s._ 6_d._

To add the myths of our own ancestors to those of Greece, we have here the stories of Odin and Thor beautifully told.

_Professor Church’s series, published by Seeley, should be in
school libraries of a higher class, but they are too numerous
and too expensive for the ordinary parish library._

=515. Cruise of Ulysses and his Men.= (Griffith, Farran, & Co.) 2_s._ 6_d._

=516. Old Greek Stories.= By CHARLES HENRY HANSON. (Nelson) 3_s._ and 3_s._ 6_d._

=517. Wanderings of Æneas.= By CHARLES HENRY HANSON. (Nelson) 3_s._ and 3_s._ 6_d._

Narratives well told and illustrated. In the ‘Æneid’ it is often almost translation. Outline illustrations in Flaxman’s style, often from the antique, very small, but as nude figures occur, they must be shown with caution. Excellent prizes for boys aiming at cultivation of mind.

NOVELETTES AND NOVELS.

For want of a better title, we give this to tales fit for the
growing maidens who are beyond the child story, and, above all,
need to have their ideal of love and courtship elevated and
refined. A few actual novels are added, in case it is thought
desirable to put them into a library where the readers are of a
somewhat superior class, as where there are the older girls and
young women who will read what is mischievous if the good is
not supplied.

=518. Christopher.= By HELEN SHIPTON. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

A very beautiful imitation of the legend of St. Christopher carried into modern life.

=519. The Valley Mill.= (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._

Farm life, where the obstacles in the course of true love are the cattle plague and a strange robbery of an old miser. The young heiress, popularly called ‘the little Squire,’ is a charming portrait.

=520. From Over the Water.= (Walter Smith) 6_s._

A Scotch bailiff meeting with strong insular prejudice in the Isle of Wight.

=521. Rufus.= (Masters) 4_s._ 6_d._

This is by the same author and in the same locality, but the hero in this case is a native fisherman, the heroine a somewhat spoilt Scottish lassie, sister to the gardener and the pet of the young ladies.

=522. The Lutaniste of St. Jacobi’s.= By C. DREW. (Marcus Ward) 6_s._

A German tale of music and lace-making, with an excellent moral against scamped work.

=523. Bride Picotée.= By the Author of ‘Mlle. Mori.’ (Bemrose) 3_s._ 6_d._

Also a lace-making story, concerned with a young French girl and an almost forgotten art.

=524. Cairnforth and Sons.= By HELEN SHIPTON. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._

Of master manufacturers. A high-minded tale.

=525. Griffinhoof.= By CRONA TEMPLE. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

This is the odd name of an old sailor on board a hulk who adopts a little orphan. There is a small novel of higher life connected with it, very prettily carried out.

=526. A Leal Light Heart.= By ANNETTE LYSTER. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

A charming character. The only fault we have to find is the worldliness of the old lady.

=527. My Lonely Lassie.= By ANNETTE LYSTER. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._ 6_d._

The governess is a very pretty character. We could dispense with her becoming a marchioness in her own right, but no doubt it renders her the greater favourite.

=528. A Stedfast Woman.= By M. BRAMSTON. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._

A high-toned tale of constancy.

=529. Two Ways of Looking at it.= By AUSTIN CLARE. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

The narratives of a trained schoolmistress and a Yorkshire collier sandwiched together.

=530. Like his own Daughter.= (Walter Smith) 6_s._

Middle-class life in Scotland.

=531. Lucy and Christian Wainwright.= (Masters) 3_s._ 6_d._

There are some really beautiful tales in this collection, especially the one on the suspense of the sister of an Arctic voyager.

=532. The Carbridges.= By M. BRAMSTON. (Warne) 3_s._ 6_d._

A good and wholesome family history.

=533. Guide, Philosopher, and Friend.= By Mrs. H. MARTIN. (Griffith, Farran, & Co.) 3_s._ 6_d._

A young lady becomes companion and adviser to some highly worthy farmers who have been encumbered with a huge fortune. It is well and sensibly carried out.

=534. Her Title of Honour.= By HOLME LEE. (Griffith, Farran, & Co.) 3_s._ 6_d._

Founded on the history of Henry Martyn and the Lydia who disappointed him.

=535. Mine Own People.= By L. M. GRAY. (Nelson) 5_s._

A girl, brought up as a companion to a nobleman’s daughter, who is returned to her own quiet family. (They are Scotch Presbyterians.) The lessons are excellent.

=536. Hanbury Mills.= By C. R. COLERIDGE. (Warne) 2_s._

=537. The Heir of Redclyffe.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

=538. Heartsease.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

=539. The Daisy Chain.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

=540. The Trial.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

=541. Pillars of the House.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 2 vols. 6_s._ each.

=542. The Young Stepmother.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

=543. Magnum Bonum.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

These are what I have found suit best in the parish library.

=544. The Earl’s Daughter.= By E. M. SEWELL. (Longmans) 1_s._

=545. Katharine Ashton.= By E. M. SEWELL. (Longmans) 1_s._

=546. Ursula.= By E. M. SEWELL. (Longmans) 1_s._

=547. The Experience of Life.= By E. M. SEWELL. (Longmans) 1_s._

=548. Gertrude, &c.= By E. M. SEWELL. (Longmans) 1_s._

These need no praise or recommendation, being well known as always sound and useful.

=549. A Noble Life.= By the Author of ‘John Halifax.’ (Hurst & Blackett) 5_s._

The history of a deformed nobleman, which gives great delight and has a most excellent moral of patience and exertion.

=550. Keeping the Vow.= (Walter Smith) 5_s._

A young Scotsman resolved to build a refuge for orphans. Founded on fact.

=551. Mary Barton.= By Mrs. GASKELL. (Smith, Elder) 2_s._ 6_d._

An unrivalled tale of joys and sorrows in Manchester forty years ago. Full of beauty and full of pathos; never to be forgotten.

=552. The Moorland Cottage.= By Mrs. GASKELL. (Chapman & Hall) 2_s._ 6_d._

Also a very charming story in a different style.

=553. Janet’s Home.= By ANNIE KEARY. (Macmillan) 6_s._

A delightful quiet novel of domestic life.

=554. Oldbury.= By ANNIE KEARY. (Macmillan) 6_s._

A still more attractive and uncommon story.

=555. One Year.= By FRANCES M. PEARD. (Warne) 2_s._ and 3_s._ 6_d._

Experiences of a French girl in England.

=556. A Near Relation.= By C. R. COLERIDGE. (White)

Difficulties of identity acting on character.

=557. An English Squire.= By C. R. COLERIDGE. (Low) 6_s._

An elder brother half Spanish and the conduct of the younger towards him.

=558. Gentleman Jim.= By Mrs. PRENTISS. (Nelson) 6_d._

A mining story, touching and spirited.

=559. Rudder Grange.= By F. STOCKTON. (Douglas) 1_s._

This most quaint and diverting American story is, among its other perfections, a good protest against romance derived from penny dreadfuls.

=560. Country Maidens.= By M. BRAMSTON. (Marcus Ward) 3_s._ 6_d._

A very winning story. It brings in a sceptically inclined young man, but he rights himself at last.

=561. Robert Ord’s Atonement.= By ROSA N. CAREY. (Bentley) 6_s._

A high-minded book.

=562. Emilia Wyndham.= By Mrs. MARSH. (Ward, Lock) 2_s._

There are many novels by this lady, perhaps out of print, but all are harmless, sensible, and of a good tone.

=563. Dorothy’s Daughters.= By Mrs. MARSHALL. (Seeley) 5_s._

This too is one of many volumes of tales, all _safe_, and with a religious and sensible tone.

=564. The Diamond Rose.= By SARAH TYTLER. (Strahan) 5_s._

This is our favourite among a large number of tales any one of which is safe reading.

=565. Jasmine Lee.= By C. FRASER TYTLER. (Strahan) 5_s._

The piteous story of a poor little abducted heiress.

=566. Madeleine.= By JULIA KAVANAGH. (Chapman & Hall) 2_s._

The beautiful true tale of the French peasant girl who founded a hospital for incurables.

=567. Gabrielle Vaughan.= (Seeley) 5_s._

A great favourite.

=568. A Vantage-Ground for doing Good.= By FLORENCE WILFORD. (Masters) 4_s._ 6_d._

=569. A Maiden of Our Own Day.= By FLORENCE WILFORD. (Masters) 6_s._

Both excellent in their different lines.

=570. Through Trial to Triumph.= By MAGGIE SYMINGTON. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

The troubles of a wife who cannot understand her husband.

=571. A Young Philistine.= By ALICE CORKRAN. (Burns & Oates)

Three charming tales, two of foreign life, all teaching tenderness for the feelings of others.

=572. A Promise Kept.= By MARY E. PALGRAVE. (National Society) 3_s._

Unusually striking and beautiful. A girl, whose dreams inspire missionary ardour, yet who has not steadfastness or courage enough to follow out her own visions when they may become earnest.

=573. By Northern Seas.= By MARY BELL. (Church Extension Society)

Dissent is here treated justly and fairly, and the tale is thoroughly interesting, containing natural though striking characters.

=574. Byewords.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

Short tales mostly reprinted from the Christmas numbers of the ‘Monthly Packet.’

=575. Uncle Max.= By R. N. CAREY. (Bentley)

An excellent tale of village nursing.

FAIRY TALES.

There are certain fairy tales that are absolute classics, and a
knowledge of which is absolutely necessary to understand common
allusions. The grandmothers have ceased to tell them, and the
little chap-books are no more, so that it has happened to me to
pause on a mention of ‘Cinderella’ or ‘Beauty and the Beast,’
and find no one understand it, and I have kept a whole school
interested while waiting for an entertainment by telling one
of these. Therefore, a _small_ list is here given, for fairy
tales should be regarded as treats, and only the superior ones
put forth freely. It will generally be found that in the first
stage of education they are despised, but that children of any
imagination enjoy them. One or two _imaginative_ classics are
added.

=576. The Fairy Book.= Selected by the Author of ‘John Halifax.’ (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._

These are the genuine old fairy tales, that ought to be known to everyone, simply told.

=577. Grimm’s Fairy Tales.= Mrs. PAULL’S Selection. (Warne) 3_s._ 6_d._ or 2_s._ 6_d._ Globe edition (Macmillan) 2_s._

These two sets make up the real folk-lore tales—remnants of old myths, of more modern ones.

=578. Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales.= Mrs. PAULL’S Selection. (Warne) 3_s._ 6_d._

These have, by their merits, become almost as classical as their predecessors, and quite as proverbial. The ‘Ugly Duckling’ and the ‘Daisy’ ought to be known to all.

=579. The Hope of the Katzekopfs.= By the Rev. F. PAGET. (Masters) 2_s._

Deserves to be classical for its fun and its moral.

=580. Old-fashioned Fairy Tales.= By Mrs. EWING. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

Modern, but according to the ancient rules of fairy tales.

=581. The Arabian Nights.= By the Rev. G. F. TOWNSEND. (Routledge) 3_s._ 6_d._

These are almost necessary for the understanding of allusions, besides the fascination of such tales as ‘Aladdin’s Lamp,’ ‘The Forty Thieves,’ or ‘Sindbad.’ It is remarkable that Hannah More thought even the old uncastigated tradition translated from the French more wholesome reading for young people than contemporary tales of character, perhaps because less tending to introspection.

=582. Alice in Wonderland.= By LEWIS CARROLL. (Macmillan) 6_s._

=583. Through the Looking-Glass.= By LEWIS CARROLL. (Macmillan) 6_s._

It takes some cultivation to enjoy these wondrously droll compositions.

=584. The Water Babies.= By C. KINGSLEY. (Macmillan) 6_s._

The same may be said of this. These are literature, though we are not sure whether ordinary school children would care for them.

=585. Fairy Legends of the South of Ireland.= By CROKER. (Swan Sonnenschein) 5_s._

These are some of the most delightful fairy tales in existence, told with an Irish humour that adds infinitely to their zest.

=586. The Light Princess.= By G. MACDONALD. (Daldy) 2_s._ 6_d._

Worthy to be old fairy tales.

=587. The Little Lame Prince.= By the Author of ‘John Halifax.’ (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._

Too beautiful and earnest not to be well worth reading.

=588. Four Winds Farm.= By Mrs. MOLESWORTH. (Macmillan)

One of the best of Mrs. Molesworth’s dream-like tales.

=589. Down the Snow Stairs.= By ALICE CORKRAN. (Blackie) 6_s._

Of the same type.

MOTHERS’ MEETINGS.

Weary, hardworked women thoroughly enjoy a bit of interesting
reading, whether pathetic or droll. Foreign tales or those
of adventure do not, as a rule, interest them, and the
old-fashioned book, where a preternaturally wise dame instructs
her neighbours is too much a lecture in disguise. By all means,
let there be some religious reading, then if possible some on
sanitary habits, domestic economy and management of children,
but not under the disguise of a story. A good, genuine fiction
gives them a real interest and something to talk of. It should
not appear to be a child’s book or they will feel insulted,
but they like nothing better than when the joys or sorrows
turn on an infant; and there is no better mode of conveying
indirect lessons—to some persons, that is to say, for there are
others who have no notion of applying what they hear to real
life. Still, wholesome amusement is a thing of which they get
all too little, and the pleasure of being read to is one they
thoroughly appreciate. Of course these books are specially
fitted for lending to old or young. They are only classed under
the category of books for Mothers’ Meetings because eminently
fitted for that purpose as well as for Lending Library shelves.

_FICTION._

=590. A Dog’s Mission.= By Mrs. BEECHER STOWE. (Nelson) 1_s._ 6_d._

A family reconciliation.

=591. The Story of the Lost Emerald.= By EMMA MARSHALL. (Nelson) 1_s._

The loss of an old maid’s much-valued jewel at a fire rouses her to think of higher things.

=592. Pamela’s Bequest.= By Mrs. SANDFORD. (Walter Smith) 2_s._ 6_d._

The bequest is a delicate child, left by a dying mother to a kindly little formal dressmaker while the father is at sea. The complications on his return are most effective. When he makes a blundering offer and gets refused, a listening woman has been known to rap the table in an ecstasy of enjoyment.

=593. Afloat.= By Mrs. STANLEY LEATHES. (John F. Shaw) 3_s._ 6_d._

A family bereaved for a time of a little girl sent adrift in a boat by an idiot. It excites great interest.

=594. Burnt Out.= By C. M. YONGE. (Walter Smith) 2_s._ 6_d._

On the demoralising effects of going about with a petition.

=595. Aunt Kezia’s Will.= By S. M. SITWELL. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

A family quarrel pacified through the love and interest excited by a blind child.

=596. Laddie.= (Walter Smith) 1_s._

A most touching story of an old peasant woman’s journey to London to see her son, who has risen to eminence as a doctor.

=597. Short Stories for Mothers’ Meetings.= By FLORENCE WILFORD. (Masters) 2_s._

Well-written stories, especially fitted for those meetings where the attendance is too irregular for continuous reading to be advisable.

=598. Tales for Mission Rooms.= (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._

The first of these is a capital lesson on gossip; the second has a very touching portrait in it.

=599. Meg’s Mistake.= By Mrs. O’REILLY. (Strahan)

Originally published as ‘Sussex Stories.’ Very lifelike, and two at least can be read with admirable effect—namely, ‘Fairy Gold’ and another bringing in the accident to the London steamboat ‘Princess Alice.’ The others have been tried, but do not seem as well liked. Perhaps they are too wordy.

=600. Pictures of Cottage Life.= By M. POOLE. (Macmillan) 3_s._ 6_d._

These are thoroughly delightful. There is an old woman with what she thinks is a skeleton warning in her eye, also a deserted wife and an adopted child, who all are completely real and as touching as they are quaint.

=601. The Cottage Next Door.= By HELEN SHIPTON. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

The taming of a rough lad through the helplessness of the pretty little silly wife and babies whom his brute of a brother abandons for a while.

=602. True Gold.= (Church Extension Society) 2_s._

A family at the gold-diggings, where the wife realises more at last by making ginger-beer than the husband by all his find of nuggets, and her faithful uprightness and industry are the saving of all.

=603. Harry’s Discipline.= By LAURA LANE. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

A good-natured careless young railway porter neglects his mother till she is almost starved. The lesson is chiefly meant for the sons, but it deeply affects the mothers, and is a warning to them not to spoil their boys.

=604. The Lion Battalion.= Story 2. (See No. 21.)

=605. Little Meg’s Children.= (See No. 49.)

=606. Scenes in a Children’s Hospital.= By L. BURKE. (R.T.S.) 1_s._

Interests the mothers greatly.

=607. Wee Willie Winkie.= (Cassell) 1_s._ 6_d._

The beginning, being an old fisherman’s difficulties with a baby rescued from a wreck, is much enjoyed. The latter part is neither so natural nor so effective.

=608. What a Man Soweth.= By G. STEBBING. (Nisbet) 3_s._ 6_d._

A boy perverted by his mother laughing at small pilferings. The conclusion is improbably happy, but the tale is excellent.

=609. The Storm of Life.= By HESBA STRETTON. (R.T.S.) 1_s._ 6_d._

A painful but very effective story of a poor woman just out of prison striving to redeem her character and save her little girl from her wicked husband. The only flaw in the book is the disregard of baptism for a babe only born to die.

=610. An Innocent.= By S. M. SITWELL. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

Here a little half-witted girl is the good angel of her rough, careless parents. The people are very naturally drawn.

=611. The Watchers on the Longships.= By J. F. COBB. (Wells Gardner, Darton, & Co.) 3_s._ 6_d._

A lighthouse story. Very welcome on the coast, where a woman has been known to lie awake thinking of it.

=612. My Little Patient.= (Masters) 6_d._

Supposed to be told by a doctor. Full of pathos, which touches mothers more than it does children.

=613. Copsley Annals.= By Miss ELLIOT. (Seeley) 5_s._

A delightful book for all ages. Perhaps the best for mothers is the tale that has been published separately under the title of

=614. Mrs. Blackett’s Story.= 1_s._

=615. Tried and True.= By FLORENCE WILFORD. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._

The faithfulness of a fly driver, who wins his wife back from habits of intoxication.

=616. Bearing the Yoke.= By HELEN SHIPTON. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._

A young farmer weighed down by a liability incurred by his father.

=617. Young Sixfoot.= By Mrs. GARNETT. (S.P.C.K.) 6_d._

A navvy story, but likely to be highly appreciated by women.

=618. Tales of the Bush.= By Mrs. VIDAL. (Masters) 3_s._ 6_d._

Australian life, but good for all, especially one on Sunday trading.

=619. Daddy Dick.= By Mrs. BROMFIELD. 3_s._ 6_d._

The civilisation of a rude lad through a little waif. It appeals to the maternal sympathy.

=620. An Empty House.= By E. WORDSWORTH. (Hatchards) 6_d._

A story of much power and beauty, turning on a crime committed by an intoxicated man.

=621. Bede’s Charity.= By HESBA STRETTON. (R.T.S.) 3_s._ 6_d._

A beautiful and striking tale. No one can better strike the chords of homely pathos than Hesba Stretton, but all her tales are not equal, and some are written for special purposes.

=622. Friends till Death.= By HESBA STRETTON. (R.T.S.) 1_s._ 6_d._

The very touching affection of an old shepherd for his helpless friend.

=623. Homes Made and Marred.= (R.T.S.) 2_s._ 6_d._

Sensible and useful.

=624. Two Christmas Stories.= By HESBA STRETTON. (R.T.S.) 6_d._

The last is specially excellent when a short effective tale is wanted.

=625. Seeketh Not Her Own.= (See No. 500.)

=626. The Heroine of a Basket Van.= By MARY BRAMSTON. (National Society) 2_s._ 6_d._

Excellent for mothers as well as children.

=627. High and Lowly.= By ELLEN DAVIS. (Nisbet) 2_s._

Well-told migrations of a retired servant in search of a home. A Blue Ribbon conquest at the end.

=628. For Half-a-Crown.= (See No. 114.)

=629. A Railway Garden.= By Mrs. SITWELL. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

A bright wife and a nagging wife, also a lesson against being hard on a sinner.

=630. Gran.= (Nisbet) 2_s._ 6_d._

A drinking husband suddenly reformed by his child’s death.

=631. Five Thousand Pounds.= By AGNES GIBERNE. (Nisbet) 2_s._

A sad story of a legacy proving the ruin of a family.

=632. The Black Coppice.= By Mrs. LAWSON. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

A very excellent narrative of the trials of a poacher’s good wife, entering more than do many such books into real difficulties in Church-going.

=633. Two Poor Old Women.= By Mrs. LAWSON. (S.P.C.K.) 12_s._ per 100.

A spirited tract on content and discontent.

_COUNSEL._

When the clergyman will open mothers’ meetings, and give a
little instruction, this is all that is requisite to convey the
religious tone. If he be not there, it may be well to begin
with something serious. Some ladies can explain a chapter of
the Bible, but in most cases a reading will be most convenient
for the purpose. Here are a few suggested:—

=634. Letters from an Unknown Friend.= By the Author of ‘Charles Lowder.’ (Kegan Paul) 1_s._ (See No. 280.)

Short explanations of the claims of the Church, which may be useful as guarding against Dissent.

=635. An Address to Women.= By the Bishop of CARLISLE. (S.P.C.K.) 2_d._

This is a most admirable, practical address given at the time of the Carlisle Church Congress. It goes into the ordinary trials of woman’s life with great force, and at the same time gives all encouragement.

=636. An Earnest Appeal to Mothers.= By Mrs. G. SUMNER. (Nisbet) 3_d._

Strong and touching appeals to mothers on guarding the purity of their children from the first.

=637. A Few Words to Mothers of Little Children.= (Hatchards) 2_d._ each or 50 at half-price.

Teaching the same lesson of preserving modesty. These three little books may be given broadcast, but they will be more effective if first read.

=638. Half-hours at Mothers’ Meetings.= 2_s._

Some of the little discourses here are very useful. One entitled ‘The Hour of Temper’ merits especial praise.

=639. The Chimney Corner.= By E. WORDSWORTH. (Hatchards) 1_s._ 6_d._

=640. Short Words for Long Evenings.= By E. WORDSWORTH. (Hatchards) 1_s._ 6_d._

=641. Work-a-Day World.= By E. WORDSWORTH. (Hatchards) 1_s._ 6_d._

All the above three are deeply thoughtful, often poetical, yet simple moralisings on common things.

=642. Plain Words.= By the Bishop of BEDFORD. One series 2_s._, or in separate tracts in 3 packets, 1_s._ each.

The force and beauty of these need no praise here, and they have the further merit of being just the right length.

=643. The Scripture Half-hour at Mothers’ Meetings.= (R.T.S.) 2_s._

There are some admirable bits here, especially in the way of true anecdote and application, but some selection may be needful.

=644. Bits of Talk on Home Matters.= (Sampson Low) 2_s._

There are most admirable chapters in this little book; to be valued by mothers of all degrees. ‘A polite mother’ is an admirable lesson.

The above are serious. Those that follow are domestic and
secular.

=645. Ways and Means in a Devonshire Village.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

Conversations on household management and cookery, done with spirit, and eliciting remarks and comparisons.

=646. Lectures on Health.= By Mrs. HALLETT. (Hatchards) 1_s._ 6_d._

Very useful explanations of sanitary measures in plain language.

=647. How to be Well.= By Mrs. HALLETT. (Walter Smith) 1_s._

Good advice on clothing, food, and regulation.

=648. Till the Doctor Comes.= By Dr. HOPE. (R.T.S.) 6_d._, in cloth 9_d._

=649. The Making of the Home.= By Mrs. C. BARNETT. (Cassell) 1_s._ 6_d._

Very good hints on house, health, and clothes.

=650. Social Economy Reading Book.= (National Society) 2_s._

Even better adapted for reading _to_ mothers than by children.

_EXTRACTS._

A few passages are here mentioned as serving well to read aloud
at Mothers’ Meetings, though the whole book might not serve
equally well.

=651. The Way of the Cross.= By EMILY S. HOLT. (Shaw) 1_s._ 6_d._

The ‘Web Ismene Wove,’ the third tale in this book, is exceedingly beautiful, and is an excellent reading near Passiontide. It is the story of a Greek girl at Jerusalem, who longs to make something to be used in the service of the God of Israel. The white web she weaves comes to be sold in haste to Joseph of Arimathæa, and thus her longing is fulfilled. The second tale is harmless, being of the mother of Ahaz, and how she spoilt her son; but the first would hardly be given or read aloud by those who would shrink from the strong assertion that SS. James, Jude, and Joses were sons of the Blessed Virgin.

=652. The Man on the Top of the Ark, and other Gospel Parables.= By ALEXANDER MACLEOD SYMINGTON. (Nisbet) 1_s._

If at the end of the first parable the reader inserts the text, ‘The like figure whereunto even Baptism doth now save us,’ the teaching is complete. The application of the Brazen Serpent and the City of Refuge is also excellent. They are the Biblical history dramatised, as it were. (See No. 353.)

=653. Catharine and Crawfurd Tait.= (Macmillan) 2_s._ 6_d._ and 6_s._

If the reader can command her voice to get through it, the history of Mrs. Tait’s successive bereavements will be listened to with intense interest.

=654. Mrs. Gaskell’s Tales.= In 7 vols. (Smith, Elder, & Co.) 2_s._ 6_d._ and 3_s._ 6_d._ each.

=655. Libbie Marsh’s Three Eras.=

St. Valentine’s day. Story of a factory girl and a cripple.

=656. The Sexton’s Story.=

An heroic act of self-sacrifice.

=657. Christmas Storms and Sunshine.=

A quarrel made up over a baby.

These three admirable stories are bound up with others less useful in collected editions of Mrs. Gaskell’s Tales, and are not to be had separately.

=658.= In =Mary Barton=, by Mrs. GASKELL (Smith, Elder, & Co.) (see No. 551),

Job’s description of the two old men’s journey by the coach with the baby cannot fail to enchant the women.

FOR MISSIONARY WORKING-PARTIES.

These are of such very different composition that all that
can be done here is to suggest books bearing on varieties of
Mission labour at home and abroad, such as may interest either
cultivated ladies, middle-class women, or very young people.

=659. Home Workers for Foreign Missions.= By E. J. WHATELY. (R.T.S.) 1_s._ 6_d._

A remarkably sensible, clever book. Should be read by all beginning a working-party, to show them what to do and what not to do.

=660. Black and White.= By H. FORDE. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

Short sketches of home and foreign missions admirably _sandwiched_ together.

=661. Pioneers and Founders.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 6_s._

Brief biographies of English and American missionaries.

=662. Life of Henrietta Robertson.= By ANNE MACKENZIE. (Bell) 3_s._ 6_d._

A record of devoted labours in the earlier days of the Zulu mission.

=663. The Story of a Fellow-Soldier.= By FRANCES AWDRY. (Macmillan) 2_s._ 6_d._

A short life of Bishop Patteson.

=664. An Elder Sister.= By FRANCES AWDRY. (Bemrose) 4_s._ 6_d._

The lives of Charles Mackenzie, first Bishop of Zululand, and his fellow-worker and sister.

=665. Our Maoris.= By Lady MARTIN. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._ 6_d._

Very life-like accounts of work in New Zealand almost from the first settlement, often droll, always striking, taken from letters written at the time the events happened.

=666. Three Martyrs of the Nineteenth Century.= (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

Short biographies of Dr. Livingstone, Bishop Patteson, and General Gordon.

=667. A Wider World.= By CRONA TEMPLE. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

An attempt to show how interest in missionary life enlarges the whole mind and interest. The execution is not equal to the conception, but, such as it is, it may be a useful opening of the subject.

=668. New Ground.= By C. M. YONGE. (Walter Smith) 3_s._

Story of a missionary’s family in Natal chiefly founded on letters from the Mackenzie family.

=669. Life of Bishop Venables of Nassau.= By Rev. W. H. F. KING. (Wells Gardner, Darton, & Co.) 3_s._ 6_d._

=670. Life of Bishop Field of Newfoundland.= By Rev. H. W. TUCKER. (Wells Gardner, Darton, & Co.) 5_s._

Brief and very interesting biographies of two noble-hearted missionary bishops.

=671. Ten Years among the Coloured Folk.=

This is an American clergyman’s experience among the emancipated negroes of Baltimore. (A small book, about 2_s._, can no doubt be procured through Sampson Low.)

=672. Dust Ho!= By H. A. FORDE. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._

Descriptions of home mission work.

=673. Master Missionaries.= By Dr. A. H. JAPP. (Unwin) 3_s._ 6_d._

The life of General Oglethorpe, with which this begins, is very curious and interesting. Fit for the educated.

=674. Effie and her Ayah.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

=675. Little Tija.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

Short studies of Indian child life, suited to a simple audience or those including children.

=676. Alone among the Zulus.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

The veritable adventures of a lady, some twenty years ago, when she went to attend a brother who had fallen sick on a hunting expedition.

=677. Mrs. Poynter’s Missionary Box.= (S.P.C.K.) 2_d._

May be useful in showing how these can be used.

=678. My Two Years in an Indian Mission.= By H. F. BLACKETT. (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._ 6_d._

A vivid picture of actual mission work by the clergy; full of interest in both town and country work.

=679. Ten Years in Melanesia.= By the Rev. ALFRED PENNY. (Wells Gardner, Darton, & Co.) 5_s._

=680. Mission Work in British Guiana.= By the Rev. W. G. BRETT. 3_s._

A delightful book, if only regarded as one of travels.

=681. Sketches of Sarawak.= By Mrs. MACDOUGALL. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._ 6_d._

There is unfailing interest in the narrative of the devoted life led by Bishop and Mrs. Macdougall in the days of Rajah Brooke.

=682. Glimpses of Maori Land.= By ANNIE R. BUTLER. (R.T.S.) 5_s._

A delightful tour among the clergy in New Zealand.

=683. Klatsassan.= By C. S. BROWN. (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._

Missionary work in British Columbia.

=684. Straightforward.= By H. A. FORDE. (Church Extension Society) 1_s._

May be reckoned as properly a tale of adventure; but as it results in intercourse with the Papuans, it might serve well for a work party needing something of a story to keep up their attention.

=685. Our Navvies.= By Mrs. GARNETT. (Hodder) 3_s._ 6_d._

An excellent book that should be read whenever it is desirable to interest people in navvy missions.

=686. A Promise Kept.= (See No. 572.)

IMPROVING BOOKS.

Under this head are classed those on different countries, on
history, biography, natural history, popular science, and real
adventure.

As has been said before, these are specially suited for prizes,
as they will be read again in after life. For those intended
for young people there will never be any great demand. In
almost all lending libraries they stand still on their shelves
with clean pages. We teach our children too much for them to be
willing to learn for themselves. The appetite may come in after
times, and sometimes may exist or be excited in some particular
direction. In cases where young people are secluded from school
by illness, it is desirable on all accounts that their mental
fare should include something besides devotional books and
fiction.

To begin with, the use of maps and the reading lessons at
school make scenes in different countries interesting, and
perhaps the surest books to be appreciated as rewards are those
giving pictures of costumes, &c.

_ON DIFFERENT COUNTRIES._

=687. All the Russias.= By E. C. PHILLIPS. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=688. Chats about Germany.= By M. BROWN. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=689. Round Africa.= By E. C. BRUCE. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=690. The Land of Temples.= By M. FIELD. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=691. New Zealand.= By B. FRANCIS. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=692. Glimpses of South America.= (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=693. A Ramble round France.= By J. CHESNEY. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=694. The Land of the Pyramids.= By J. CHESNEY. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=695. The Eastern Wonderland.= By B. C. ANGUS. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

=696. Peeps into China.= By E. C. PHILLIPS. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

These have ‘pictures’ to every other page, and are wonders of cheapness and really interesting writing.

=697. In the Polar Regions.= (Nelson) 2_s._ 6_d._

=698. In the Temperate Regions.= (Nelson) 2_s._ 6_d._

=699. In the Tropical Regions.= (Nelson) 2_s._ 6_d._

All the above are compilations full of interesting descriptions and good illustrations.

=700. Little Lucy’s Wonderful Globe.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._

Sketches of child life in various lands, adapted to Frölich’s illustrations. Too dear for a prize, but children like it when lent to them.

=701. Child Life in Chinese Homes.= By Mrs. BRYSON. (R.T.S.) 5_s._

=702. The Children of Africa.= (Hodder & Stoughton) 5_s._

Fully illustrated, very easy and amusing, though China is better done than Africa as being a less wide field.

=703. Early English Voyagers.= (Nelson) 5_s._

The voyages of Drake, Cavendish, and Dampier excellently told.

=704. Letters from Egypt.= By J. WHATELY. (Seeley).

A model of the style of thing.

=705. Germany.= By S. BARING-GOULD. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=706. Egypt.= By STANLEY LANE-POOLE. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=707. Denmark and Iceland.= By E. C. OTTÉ. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=708. France.= By the Author of ‘Mlle. Mori.’ (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=709. Japan.= By S. MOSSMAN. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=710. Russia.= By W. R. MORFILL. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=711. Austria.= By D. KAY. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=712. Greece.= By L. SERGEANT. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=713. West Indies.= By C. H. EDEN. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=714. Peru.= By CLEMENTS MARKHAM. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=715. Australia.= By J. F. VESEY FITZGERALD. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=716. Spain.= By WENTWORTH WEBSTER. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

=717. Sweden and Norway.= By F. H. WOODS. (Sampson Low) 3_s._ 6_d._

These are not so ornamental as Cassell’s series, though they have maps and illustrations; but if I may judge from the two specimens I have seen—namely, ‘France’ and ‘Germany’—they are full of interest and information amusingly given, and would be excellent for any intelligent person in need of knowledge of some special place. Very good for town or club libraries where the readers rise above fiction.

=718. Great Waterfalls.= By JOHN GIBSON. (Nelson) 2_s._ 6_d._

Well-illustrated descriptions of cataracts and geysers.

=719. A Jolly Fellowship.= By F. STOCKTON. (Kegan Paul) 5_s._

The droll adventures of three American schoolboys who make a tour by themselves in Florida and Cuba.

=720. Road to the North Pole.= (R.T.S.) Series I. and II., 1_s._ each.

An excellent abstract of the American Arctic expeditions of the ‘George Henry,’ the ‘Polaris,’ and the ‘Jeannette.’

_ADVENTURES._

These are truthful adventures, in contradistinction to the
Kingston, Ballantyne, Verne, and other ‘books for boys’ which
abound. Where we should _lend_ those we should _give_ these.

=721. Real Stories from Many Lands.= By Lady VERNEY. (S.P.C.K.) 9_d._

The wonderful first navigation of the Colorado. A terrible conflict between a horse and a tiger, and the escape of Grotius. Easy, and likely to satisfy the children who ask ‘Is it true?’

=722. Perils of the Deep.= (S.P.C.K.) 4_s._

Collections of the most striking and memorable wrecks and other trials of sailors. Just the book for men or boys invalided.

=723. Peril and Adventure.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 2_s._

=724. Valour and Enterprise.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 2_s._

=725. Brave Days of Old.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 2_s._

=726. Daring and Doing.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 2_s._

=727. On Honour’s Roll.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 3_s._ 6_d._

=728. Heroism and Adventure.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 3_s._ 6_d._

=729. Sea Fights and Land Battles.= By L. VALENTINE. (Warne) 3_s._ 6_d._

Noble deeds, _true_ and inspiring, such as should go to the heart of brave lads.

=730. A Book of Golden Deeds.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._ Selection, 1_s._

Heroic actions in all ages.

=731. Heroes of the Arctic and their Adventures.= By WHYMPER. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

=732. Across the Pampas.= By Sir F. HEAD. (Murray) 2_s._

One of those spirited and delightful books that never grow stale.

=733. Anson’s Voyages.= (S.P.C.K.) 2_s._ 6_d._

Compressed, and ever interesting.

=734. Wanderings in South America.= By CHARLES WATERTON. (Macmillan) 6_s._ or 6_d._

The most delightful of true travellers’ wonders.

=735. Lady Brassey’s Voyage in the ‘Sunbeam.’= (Longmans) 6_d._

Later aspects of the world.

=736. Ride to Khiva.= By Col. FRED. BURNABY. (Cassell) 1_s._ 6_d._

Highly interesting in the present state of things. Where there is a set of readers open to the interest of books of travels, a watch had better be kept on Mudie’s second-hand list.

=737. Around and About Old England.= By C. L. MATÉAUX. (Cassell) 3_s._ 6_d._

=738. Huc’s Life and Travels in Tartary.= (Nelson) 1_s._

The adventures of the two Jesuit missionaries made a great sensation at the time of publication, and are most amusing.

=739. Egypt and Nubia.= By J. ST. JOHN. (Chapman & Hall)

A book with much reading in it, and likely to be very much read if still in print.

=740. Two Years in the Region of Icebergs.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

HISTORY.

History is seldom very acceptable to young people of the
working classes. They do not live in a sufficiently cultivated
atmosphere to keep up interest in what they learn at school;
but sometimes an event or perhaps an historical tale rouses
their curiosity, and those a little more cultivated ought
to learn to read for themselves. Histories are particularly
desirable as prizes, since they may be used and referred to
through life. Moreover, everything should be done to get
pupil-teachers beyond the mere cram of names and dates.

=741. The Story of Russia.= By M. E. BENSON. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

=742. The Story of Norway.= By C. E. SEDGWICK. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

=743. The Story of Switzerland.= By F. M. LEE. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

=744. The Story of Spain.= By JULIA HUXLEY. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

=745. The Story of Denmark.= By C. E. SEDGWICK. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

=746. The Story of Holland.= By ISABEL DON. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

=747. The Story of Iceland.= By LETITIA MACOLL. (Rivingtons) 3_s._ 6_d._

Capital brief sketches of people, country, and history. Not difficult, but familiar and amusing. Illustrated and prettily got up.

_SHORT STORIES ON HISTORY._

=748. English.= (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._

=749. France.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

=750. Germany.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

=751. Spain.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

=752. Sweden.= (S.P.C.K.) 1_s._

These are history chiefly in conversation. They are fairly well done, but it is generally difficult to excite interest in foreign histories.

_JUVENILE ENGLISHMEN’S HISTORICAL LIBRARY._

=753. History of England.= By J. M. NEALE. (Masters) 1_s._ 6_d._

=754. History of Greece.= By J. M. NEALE. (Masters) 2_s._

=755. History of Rome.= By S. FOX. (Masters) 2_s._

=756. History of Spain.= By B. J. JOHNS. (Masters) 2_s._

=757. History of Portugal.= By J. M. NEALE. (Masters) 2_s._

=758. History of Ireland.= By T. K. ARNOLD. (Masters) 1_s._ 6_d._

=759. History of Scotland.= By W. B. FLOWER. (Masters) 2_s._

Plainly got up, but telling much that is useful.

=Aunt Charlotte’s Histories=, by C. M. YONGE, namely—

=760. Scripture.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._ or 2_s._

=761. England.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._ or 1_s._ 6_d._

=762. France.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._

=763. Germany.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._

=764. Greece.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._

=765. Rome.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._

=766. America.= (Marcus Ward) 6_s._

These, except the two first, of which there are cheaper editions, are too full of illustrations not to be costly.

=767. Lectures on the History of England for Working Men and Women.= By M. GUEST. (Macmillan) 6_s._

An epitome of life and manners in England, actually composed for and read aloud to an audience of mechanics.

=768. The Story of the Crusades.= (Nelson) 1_s._ 6_d._

=769. Children of Westminster Abbey.= By ROSE KINGSLEY. (Sampson Low) 5_s._

Descriptions of the building and the monuments, with histories of the persons there buried, showing a most loving hand.

=770. Stories of the Tower.= By M. WILSON. (Cassell) 2_s._

Narratives of the chief events, and histories of the chief prisoners of the Tower. These two should be in all libraries for Londoners.

=771. Two of England’s Wars=; or, =Theodore and Coffee=. (R.T.S.) 1_s._ 6_d._

Well and shortly told histories of the Abyssinian and Ashantee campaigns.

=772. Talks about the Laws we live under.= By C. M. YONGE. (Walter Smith) 2_s._

An endeavour to give a popular account of our institutions and authorities.

=773. The Citizen Reader.= (Cassell) 1_s._ 6_d._

The same work, so much better done that it is to be regretted that it should be so evidently intended as a school-book.

=774. Cawnpore.= By Sir GEORGE TREVELYAN. (Macmillan) 6_s._

A terrible history, riveting interest.

BIOGRAPHY.

A real life often speaks more plainly and effectively than a
hundred sermons or exhortations. And as childhood is outgrown,
intelligent persons will have a curiosity about those whose
names they may have heard.

=Cassell’s World’s Workers=, namely—

=775. General Gordon.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=776. Charles Dickens.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=777. Titus Salt and George Moore.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=778. Florence Nightingale.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=779. Sir H. Havelock.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=780. Abraham Lincoln.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=781. Livingstone.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=782. Franklin.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=783. Cobden.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=784. Handel.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=785. Turner.= (Cassell) 1_s._

=786. G. and R. Stephenson.= (Cassell) 1_s._

These are full of life, not too long, and exactly suited to their purpose.

=787. Life of Dr. Kane, the Arctic Hero.= By M. JONES. (Nelson) 2_s._

=788. Baron von Humboldt.= By M. JONES. (Nelson) 2_s._

Illustrated, and excellent for presents.

=789. Sir David Wilkie and his Works.= (Nelson) 2_s._

=790. Charles Kingsley.= People’s edition. (Kegan Paul) 4_s._ 6_d._

This is a book that should be widely dispersed among the more intelligent, especially where there is much temptation to scepticism.

=791. Charles Lowder.= (Kegan Paul) 3_s._ 6_d._

A biography that wins the heart as much as did the man.

=792. Life of the Earl of Shaftesbury.= By EDWIN HODDER. (Cassell) 7_s._ 6_d._

So noble, pure, devoted, and charitable a life ought to be known to all.

=793. Sister Dora.= By M. LONSDALE. (Kegan Paul) 2_s._ 6_d._

Excites the warmest enthusiasm.

=794. The Story of a Fellow-Soldier.= By F. AWDRY. (Macmillan) 2_s._ 6_d._

An abridged life of Bishop Patteson.

=795. An Elder Sister.= By F. AWDRY. (Bemrose) 4_s._ 6_d._

Bishop Charles Mackenzie and his sister Anne.

=796. Life of Oberlin.= By Mrs. BUTLER. (R.T.S.) 3_s._ 6_d._ or 6_d._

The latter very small, but in cloth.

=797. Nelson.= By SOUTHEY. (Warne) 2_s._ 6_d._ (Routledge) 1_s._

Needs no praise.

=798. Life of Washington.= 1_s._

=799. From the Log Cabin to the White House.= (Warne) 1_s._

=800. From the Tan Yard to the White House.= 1_s._

The two latter are lives of Garfield and Grant, sensationally but not unwholesomely told.

=801. Hannah More.= By ANNA J. BUCKLAND. (R.T.S.) 3_s._

Very well told.

=802. Book of Worthies.= By C. M. YONGE. (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._

Chiefly from ancient history.

=803. Biographies of Good Women.= By C. M. YONGE. (Walter Smith) Vol. I. 6_s._ Vol. II. 7_s._

=804. Notable Workers in Humble Life.= By the Rev. E. N. HOARE. (Nelson) 2_s._

An admirable and inspiriting book. Dick, Edward, Pound, Duncan, here appear as men who looked not to raise themselves in a worldly sense, but for better things.

=805. The Peasant-Boy Philosopher.= (Routledge) 3_s._ 6_d._

Life of James Ferguson.

=806. A Few Good Women.= By CATHARINE MACSORLEY. (Hogg) 3_s._ 6_d._

Lives of Mrs. Somerville, Lady Derby, the Princess de Lamballe, &c.

=807. Heroes of the Indian Empire.= By R. FOSTER. (Cassell) 2_s._ 6_d._

Lives of our great men in India from Clive to Havelock.

If more historical biographies are desired, there is an
excellent series edited by Professor Creighton; also some good
ones of S.P.C.K., but those here selected are chiefly those
that are modern enough to interest the average library reader,
of the sort who does not want either fiction or absolutely
religious biography.

It is not easy to choose among the many lives of the Queen that
the Jubilee has brought forth. S.P.C.K. and R.T.S. have each
a large handsome one and a penny one. ‘_The First Lady in the
Land_’ (Wells Gardner, Darton, & Co.) is cheap and attractive.
Tulloch’s ‘_Life of Queen Victoria_’ (Nisbet) for boys and
girls, and Miss Yonge’s ‘_Victorian Half Century_’ (Macmillan),
1_s._ or 1_s._ 6_d._, have both had the honour of Her Majesty’s
correction, and are both for the young; Tulloch’s, perhaps, for
the youngest. Another life of Queen Victoria (Nelson), 1_s._
6_d._, is a marvel of cheapness and very prettily told.

CHURCH HISTORY.

=808. History of the Early Church.= By Miss SEWELL. (Longmans) 4_s._ 6_d._

Easy narrative, going through the first three centuries.

=809. The Mother Church.= By C. A. JONES. 3_s._

Simply told history of the early English Church.

=810. Church History.= By the Rev. J. M. NEALE. (Walter Smith) 3_s._ 6_d._

Vividly told as a congenial subject. The first three centuries.

=811. Eighteen Centuries of Church History.= By C. M. YONGE. (Walter Smith) 5_s._

An attempt to give salient facts in short easy chapters.

=812. Turning-Points of General Church History.= By the Rev. E. CUTTS. (S.P.C.K.) 5_s._

Very valuable as giving the most important events in ready form and short compass.

=813. Turning-Points of English Church History.= By the Rev. E. CUTTS. (S.P.C.K.) 3_s._ 6_d._

Equally good and nearer home.

=814. Church History.= By the Rev. A. D. CRAKE, B.A. (Rivingtons) 7_s._ 6_d._

Full and interesting; up to the Council of Nicæa.

=815. English Church History.= By Canon PERRY. (Murray) 3 vols. 7_s._ 6_d._ each.

Admirable histories of the Church in England.

=816. Student’s Church History.= (Murray) 2 vols. 7_s._ 6_d._ each.

A valuable epitome.

=817. Epochs of Church History.= Edited by Canon Creighton. (Longmans) 2_s._ 6_d._ per vol.

These are =The Church and the Roman Empire=, by the Rev. A. CARR. =The Church of the Early Fathers=, by the Rev. D. PLUMMER. =The University of Oxford=, by Hon. G. L. BRODRICK. =The Reformation in England=, by G. G. PERRY. =The Church and the Puritans=, by H. O. WAKEMAN. =The Evangelical Revival=, by Canon OVERTON. =The English Church in Other Lands=, by the Rev. H. W. TUCKER.

These are excellent to give to schoolmasters or persons with some education and knowledge of history, but needing further elucidation of ‘turning-points.’

=818. English Church History.= By C. M. YONGE. (National Society) 1_s._ 6_d._ and 2_s._

An easy account. Meant for schools.

=819. Lights and Shadows of Church History.= By the Rev. W. HARDMAN. 4_s._

A series of excellent brief sermon lectures on the most noted facts in the growth of the Church. It has the merit of not being too long, and is fit for readers of superior education.

NATURAL HISTORY.

I have not found natural history popular in libraries. Indeed,
I have known a magazine given up because there was too much of
it. The children have a large amount of it in their Readers at
school, where they like it, as it is a less dry subject than is
presented by many of their lessons. If they belong to the Band
of Mercy they sometimes have to get up the subject, and there
is no doubt that this conduces to the cure of wanton cruelty.
But though, as an alternative to a real study, children will
enjoy an anecdote, and though a master, mistress, or friend
can lead them to use their eyes and assist in some pursuit or
collection, it is only the exceptional ones with a developed
taste who will voluntarily read more than an occasional story.
Where there is a real taste in one direction, technical books
can be supplied, but the aim of the lending library can only
be to give out works of general information or interest, such
as may lead to a love of nature, prevent wanton or careless
barbarity, and possibly excite a wholesome taste in some
special direction. The S.P.C.K. has excellent technical and
popular manuals, but these are fit for those who wish to
_study_ their subject, and should be possessed, not borrowed.

For lending may be suggested:—

=820. Population of an Old Pear Tree.= From the French of VAN BRUYSSELL. (Macmillan) 4_s._ 6_d._

Capitally illustrated, and full of loveliness of description of the insect inhabitants of the tree.

=821. Chapters on Popular Natural History.= By Sir J. LUBBOCK. (National Society) 1_s._ 6_d._ and 2_s._

Though published as a reading book, this is better for lending.

=822. Outdoor Common Birds.= Eighty illustrations. (Warne) 1_s._ 6_d._

Even country children need this. They observe birds very little, and hardly know the names of any; even local provincial names are few, and they need to learn not to regard birds as enemies to be robbed and slaughtered.

=823. Our Dogs.= By Mrs. BEECHER STOWE. (Nelson) 1_s._

Real dogs—very good for readings and prizes for a Band of Mercy.

=824. Songs of Animal Life.= By MARY HOWITT. (Nelson) 1_s._

=825. With the Birds.= By MARY HOWITT. (Nelson) 1_s._