Australasia.

Historical Records of New South Wales. Vol. I. Part 1. Cook. 1762-1780. 8vo. Pp. xlii-526 and plates. Sydney. 1893.

The papers contained in this volume of the Historical Records of New South Wales deal with the visit of Captain Cook to those shores during the years 1769-70, and incidentally with his career both before and after that period. According to the preface, it was originally intended that the foundation of the Colony by Governor Phillip should form the starting-point of the history of New South Wales, the work of Captain Cook being regarded as belonging to the history of discovery rather than to that of colonisation; but it having been decided to publish the records of the Colony concurrently with the history, in separate volumes, the work of the famous navigator has been included, and so lends additional value to the period when the knowledge of Australia began to assume a definite and accurate form. The collection opens with an extract from a log in the handwriting of Cook which has been preserved in the British Museum in which the voyage along the eastern coast of New Holland is recorded. As a historic document this log is of great value, as it affords, in the opinion of the editor, a ready means of disposing finally, not only of a number of fallacies which have hitherto been accepted, but also of a number of questions which have given rise to a great deal of controversy of a speculative nature. A mass of general, as well as official correspondence, containing the Admiralty despatches, &c., helps to produce an interesting as well as a useful record of the services of the great navigator whose name is so closely connected with the progress of discovery and settlement in Australia. Strict chronological order in the arrangement of the records has been adhered to except in the case of the logs, which are grouped together at the commencement of the book. The illustrations are reproductions of portraits and views of the period, while the fac-similes of entries in the log books of the 'Endeavour' have been traced from the originals in the British Museum and reproduced by photo-lithography. The work has been ably edited by Mr. F. M. Bladen, of the Government Printing Office, Sydney, whilst too much praise cannot be bestowed upon Mr. James Bon-wick, himself an old colonist, who has laboured indefatigably in collecting the information necessary for the production of the work.

page 98

Calvert, Albert F. (F.R.G.S. &c.)—The Discovery of Australia. 4to. Pp. vi-91. London: George Philip & Son. 1893, (Price 10s. (6d.)

According to the Author's preface, this work is merely a collection of historical facts regarding the voyages undertaken by the representatives of the various European nations for the discovery of the Great South Land Mr. Calvert does not profess to sum up the results of those voyages by advocating any theory as to priority of claim, but simply traces the course of discovery from the earliest records of the voyages of De Gonneville, Parmentier, De Quiros, Tasman, Dampier, and other celebrated navigators, terminating with the voyage of Captain Cook, which occupies considerable space, owing to its importance in connection with the present geographical configuration of Australia. Although there is nothing in the work throwing further light upon the already much-debated question of priority of discovery, a reference to the maps which are embodied clearly shows, as has already been proved by the late Mr. R. H. Major, that in the sixteenth century there are indications of Australia having been already discovered, but with no written documents to confirm them, while in the following century there is documentary evidence that its coasts were touched upon or explored by a number of Dutch navigators, but the documents immediately describing these voyages have not been found. Hence the investigation is one of the most interesting in all its stages, but beset with doubts and difficulties arising from many causes. The Author mentions one voyage which has not hitherto figured amongst the documentary evidence regarding early Australian exploration, viz. that of Van Cal-Verte, a Dutchman who is stated to have voyaged during 1504-5 from Java Minor to Java Major, reaching the extreme corner of North-Vest Australia. This voyage the Author states is described in a manuscript pamphlet containing a rough outline map which was in the possession of his family in 1853, but has since been lost. Without documentary evidence this voyage cannot be considered as affecting the early discovery Australia. The collection of twenty-four maps, reproduced from various sources, will be found of considerable use for purposes of reference, whilst the work itself embodies an epitome of all that has been written upon the subject by various Authors, and so rendered easily accessible for purposes of research.

Williams, Right Rev. William (D.C.L.)—A Dictionary of the New Zealand Language. 8vo. Pp. xv-825. Auckland: Upton & Co. London: Williams & Norgate. 1892.

The latest edition of this Dictionary of the New Zealand Language appears in a considerably enlarged form, with numerous additions and corrections. The first edition appeared fifty years ago, and although considerably less than half the size of its present and fourth edition, proved page 99 of considerable use to those who were brought into frequent communication with the Maori people. Since that period the work has been rendered more complete by the inclusion of many good illustrative examples, taken from Sir George Grey's valuable work on the "Mythology and Traditions of the New Zealanders," as well as from Maori letters or other writings and from the lips of Maori speakers on the spot. Considerable difficulty has been experienced in rendering the work thoroughly complete, owing to the fact that many words though well known in one district, may be absolutely unknown in another. It is, nevertheless, an example of most diligent research, and is the most complete and comprehensive work upon the subject.

Transactions of the Royal Society of South Australia. Vol. XVI. Parts 1 and 2. 8vo. Adelaide. 1892-93.

The two parts comprising Volume 16 of this Society's Transactions are of more than usual interest, their contents consisting of the scientific results of the Elder Exploring Expedition, which excited so much attention at the time of its departure, but the results of which were not as satisfactory as was anticipated. The first part contains reports on Vegetable Exudations, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Land and Fresh-Water Mollusca, whilst the second is devoted to a large number of papers dealing with Geology, Meteorology, Lichens, Fungi, &c. These, together with the General Report of the Expedition issued separately, form a valuable addition to the history of Australian exploration.

British North America.

Macdonell, J. A. (Q.C.)—Sketches illustrating the Early Settlement and History of Glengarry in Canada. 8vo. Pp. 337. Montreal: Wn. Foster, Brown & Co. 1893.

In much that has of recent years been written on the interesting subject of the United Empire Loyalist Settlement, the war of 1812-14, and the rebellion of 1837-8, there is but little, if any, mention made of the part which the Highlanders of Glengarry took in the American Revolutionary War of 1776-83, and the early settlement of the country at the close of the war, its defence in 1812-14, and the suppression of the rebellion. In taking up the subject, the Author, after an interval of many years, submits I a clear and interesting statement gathered from early records, which I shows that the county of Glengarry contained at least as many Loyalist settlers who had fought for the Crown during the first war as any other of the earlier settled counties, and contributed more fighting men for the preservation of the country, its connection with the mother-land, and the maintenance of Canadian institutions than any other part of the Province. He points out how the county of Glengarry was originally settled by those page 100 who left Scotland for America under circumstances which redound to their credit as loyal and faithful subjects of the British Crown, and after-wards took part in the wars referred to, subsequently taking up their abode in what is now Glengarry. The work is an interesting history of the early settlement of Canada, and contains a record of the services of the descendants of the original settlers, many of whom have occupied, and still occupy, prominent positions in the Dominion of Canada.

Harris, Very Rev. W. R.—History of the Early Missions in Western Canada. 12mo. Pp. vii-339. Toronto: Hunter, Rose & Co. 1893.

This work is an expansion and a development of a sketch prepared some time ago and published in the Jubilee Volume issued on the twenty-fifth anniversary of the consecration of the Archbishop of Toronto. It, to a certain extent, is a collection of material scattered throughout the various histories of Canadian missions, &c., interspersed with new matter gleaned from reliable sources. Dean Harris has arranged and put together the material in an able and interesting manner, so producing a work of convenient size, with the chief points of the larger works brought together under one head. The subject opens with an account of the native tribes inhabiting the Dominion of Canada, then the establishment of the Franciscan Order in Canada and the work of its missionaries, whose dictionaries of the Huron language and series of narratives to the present day furnish a source of ethnological, geographic, and historic data for all writers on early Canadian history. Following the Franciscan Fathers, the Jesuits occupy the attention of the Author, who relates the circumstances under which they went to Canada and an account of the work performed by their earl; missionaries in the then almost unknown Huron country. The author then proceeds to give an account of the various individual missionaries who penetrated into the interior of Canada and by their devotion and fearlessness converted many among the savage inhabitants of the country. The work is a welcome addition to the Canadian mission records, and has every appearance of being historically accurate, the source of information being in every case stated.

Aberdeen, Countess of.—Through Canada with a Kodak. 12mo. Pp. viii-249. Edinburgh: W. H. White & Co. 1893. (Price 2s.)

In a pleasing manner Lady Aberdeen has brought together in this work a series of articles which she had previously contributed to a magazine giving an account of her travels through the Dominion, and conveying: impressions of the rich and varied attractions of the country, which are generally imperfectly realised by those in this country. After an account of the voyage, the journey commences at Quebec and proceeds, by easy stages, through all the chief towns of the Dominion to British Columbia— page 101 a description of which occupies a special position, probably on account of Lord Aberdeen having become a landowner in that province. Throughout the Dotes Lady Aberdeen confines herself to the simple recollections of a holiday trip, omitting altogether the deeper questions of Canadian life and politics. The majority of the illustrations are printed from photographs taken by Lady Aberdeen's Kodak, and with the pleasantly written sketch would form a guide for either the holiday seeker or intending settler.

Statistical Year-Book of Canada for 1892. 8vo. Pp. 659. Ottawa: 1898.

For purposes of reference and for obtaining general information upon the Dominion of Canada as a whole, this Annual presents many important features. For the statistician it is invaluable, and for the ordinary student of Colonial affairs a necessity. The various sections have been brought well up to date, and show at a glance the increasing importance of the trade of the Dominion, as well as the rapidly increasing settlement of the more remote portions of the country. If improvement in the present plan of publication is possible, it might be in embodying a set of statistics drawn up according to the British currency as well as Canadian, by which means reference would be considerably facilitated in the case of the ordinary student of commercial affairs.

Scidmore, Eliza Ruhamah.—Guide-Book to Alaska and the North-West Coast. 12mo. Pp. vii-156. London: 'William Heine-mann. 1898. (Price 6s.)

So little is known of the portion of North America termed Alaska, that this handbook, which is the third of a series issued by Mr. William Heinemann, will be of service to those intending making a tour in that portion of the world. Although so little visited, the country is described as mountainous, with bold scenery, and possessing several good-sized towns with suitable accommodation for tourists. Alaska itself is described as nine times the size of the New England States, and stretches more than one thousand miles from north to south. It contains 580,107 square miles, with a coast line of 18,211 miles, greater than the coast line of all the rest of the United States, in addition to which a large number of islands are included in the territory. South-Eastern Alaska is stated to be the only portion of this vast territory now accessible to tourists and pleasure travellers, and the Alaska Mail and excursion steamer routes include a tour through the Archipelago fringing the north-west coast and sheltering an inside passage over a thousand miles in length. The climate of the north-west coast is stated to be far milder than that of the north-east coast of the continent. In addition to an account of Alaska, the author gives a general description of a portion of British Columbia, which offers much to interest the tourist who awaits the Alaska steamer at Victoria. A largo amount of useful page 102 information is embodied in the work, including the various routes to this vast territory, as well as the names and tariffs of the hotels, and a mass of information regarding the country generally, as well as the chief objects of interest for the ordinary visitor and the fishing and hunting grounds for the sportsman. The work is illustrated, and contains two maps showing the various routes to be taken, and the position of the country as regards the mainland of the Dominion of Canada.

Africa.

Selous, Frederick Courteney (C.M.Z.S.)—Travel and Adventure in South-East Africa. 8vo. Pp. xviii-503. London: Rowland Ward & Co. Ltd. 1893. (Price 25s.)

Considerable interest attaches to this work in view of recent events in South Africa in which the Author has played so prominent a part. The travels of Mr. Selous have been brought prominently before the public during the past year by means of lectures, and also articles contributed from time to time to the "Field" newspaper, but nevertheless the work in its collective form possesses a freshness which cannot fail to secure for it a wide circulation. Lion stories and hunting adventures naturally predominate, but a considerable amount of general information, with descriptions of the various parts of South Africa visited by the Author and the native inhabitants and other subjects of general interest, are dealt with in a pleasant and entertaining style. The book is divided into twenty sir chapters narrating the personal experiences of the Author amongst the South African Boers, and embodying many anecdotes; an account of two expeditions sent against the Batauwani by Lo Bengula; the devastations committed by the Matabele in Mashonaland, and notes upon the Bushmen, &c. Then follows an account of the Author's journeys beyond the Zambesi to the countries of the Mashukulumbwi and Barotse tribes. The remainder of the book, with the exception of two chapters, deals with the past history and present condition of Mashonaland—a subject upon which Mr. Selous is thoroughly qualified to speak, and whose opinions, after so long a residence in South Africa, are of the greatest value to all interested in the country. Regarding the existence of gold, it is stated that the industry, which is at present in its infancy, is likely, with the introduction of mining machinery, to make rapid strides, and so have the effect of starting townships in each of the gold-bearing districts. Each of these mining sections, Mr. Selous states, will support a large farming population, so that as the mining towns grow so will the land be occupied and cultivated, till at no distant date the homesteads of British and South African settlers will be scattered throughout the length and breadth of the breezy downs of Mashonaland. The pioneer expedition to Mashonaland, with the difficulties encountered, is an interesting record of settlement in a new country, and forms one of the most important portions of the book, con- page 103 taining as it does an account of the negotiations of Mr. Selous with Lo Bengula for the safe passage of the expedition through his territory. Referring to the statement that it was only the extreme friendliness of Lo Bengula and the Matabele people that made the expedition to Mashonaland possible, Mr. Selous differs entirely from such a view, adding: "We cut the road to Mashonaland in defiance of them, and our advance would most certainly have been resisted but for two circumstances. The first was the fact that during the progress of the expedition a well-equipped force of five hundred mounted men of the Bechuanaland Border Police were encamped on the south-western border of Matabeleland; and the second that after the expedition crossed the Tuli, and until it reached the plateau of Mashonaland, Lo Bengula and his people never knew where we were." The settlement of the country is described as well as the troubles and difficulties attendant upon taking over a new country, together with its native population. The Author's knowledge of the topographical features of the country, obtained after many years of travel as a hunter and collector of natural history specimens, proved of incalculable value to the pioneer force, and so enabled it to make the rapid progress which under other circumstances would have been impossible. The work is well illustrated with hunting scenes and phases of native life, the representations of the former being drawn from the Author's own descriptions, whilst an excellent index completes a work which is interesting from beginning to end.

Brown, Robert (M.A., Ph.D., F.L.S., F.R.G.S.).—The Story of Africa and its Explorers. Vol. II. 4to. Pp. viii-312. London: Cassell & Co., Ltd. 1893. (Price 7s. (6d.)

The story of African exploration is so interesting a subject that it is not surprising to find so many works appearing from the press dealing with the subject from various points of view, and relating to different parts of the vast continent. In this work the subject is dealt with as a whole, and is continued from the first volume, which appeared a few months hack, and embraces chapters on the rivers of Egypt, the great lakes, Victoria Nyanza, the travels of Dr. Livingstone, and the exploration of the Congo. Of these, Livingstone's travels occupy considerable space, and give a very complete record of the great traveller's services to African exploration, whilst the recent settlement of the British South Africa Company in Mashonaland occupies attention, as well as the various expeditions which have recently had the effect of giving to the world a more intimate knowledge of those portions of Africa which for centuries past have remained closed to the civilised world. A considerable amount of information may be gained by the hunter, trader, and scientist from that portion of the book devoted to the fauna and flora of different parts of the country. The work, which has been compiled by Dr. Robert Brown, is profusely illustrated with reproductions from photographs, &c.

page 104

Noble, John.—Illustrated Official Handbook of the Cape and South Africa. 8vo. Pp. xvi-568. Cape Town: J. C. Juta & Co. 1893.

Owing to the fact that South Africa is daily growing into prominent and awakening wide interest, the issue of a new and revised edition of Mr. Noble's handbook will prove of considerable service to those interested in the progress of the Colonies and States of Southern Africa. It is now seven years since the first edition of the work was published, and during that period remarkable developments have taken place, not only in the Cape Colony, but in South Africa generally. The present issue, therefore, embraces some account of the past and present conditions, not only of the Cape of Good Hope, but also of the other Colonies, States, and territories of South Africa, and it presents to the public a fuller and more perfect knowledge than is commonly possessed of the natural history, products, and resources of that portion of the African continent, and of the political and social changes which have marked the advance of colonisation throughout it. Several special chapters have been contributed by leading authorities, and add considerably to the value of the work, amongst them being an account of the Flora of South Africa, by Mr. Harry Bolus; the Diamond Mines, by T. Reunart; Gold Mining at Witwatersrand, by Mr. F. Spencer; and the Climate and Health Resorts, by Dr. C. Lawrence Herman. The work is, in fact, a complete encyclopaedia of South African information, and contains a large collection of illustrations of the scenery, public buildings, and natives of the country.

Ellis, Colonel A. B.—.l History of the Gold Coast of West Africa. 8vo. Pp. xi-400. London: Chapman & Hall, Ltd. 1898. (Price 10s. 6d.)

Colonel Ellis has for some years done good work in drawing attention to the various settlements on the West Coast of Africa, where he has had exceptional opportunities of gaining a mass of information regarding both the country and the people. In his latest work he gives a general account of that portion of the coast known as the Gold Coast, commencing with the voyages made from the Mediterranean along the Western Coast of Africa, both by the Phoenicians and the Egyptians, many hundred yean before the Christian era, and carrying his historical review to events of the past few years. Included in that long period the Author discusses many questions of considerable interest, embracing the Portuguese discoveries in West Africa, and the formation of a settlement at Elmina, the early English voyages, the inauguration of Dutch rule, and the hostilities between the Portuguese and the Dutch, in which the former were eventually expelled. The account of the formation of English settlements and trading stations is of considerable interest in tracing the progress of the British settlements of the present day. The formation of the Royal African Company in 1672, and an account of its rights and territories, may page 105 be read with advantage in comparison with the question of settlement by companies now so prominently before the public. Colonel Ellis embodies all the chief facts regarding the treaties with the natives, and an account of the various expeditions which have proceeded to the interior for both peaceful and hostile purposes. The causes which led up to the Ashanti War of 1873-74, as well as the policy pursued by the Governor of that period, are graphically described, as well as the events of the war itself. Events since that period, including the Abolition of Slavery (which, the author states, was a recognised institution in the Protectorate up to the year 1874), the trade of the Colony, the Boundary Commissions, &c., are treated in chronological order, and complete a work which may be classed as the standard one upon the Gold Coast Colony.

Theal, George McCall.—History of South Africa from the Foundation of the European Settlement to our own Times (1834-1854). 8vo. Pp. 629. London: Swan Sonnenschein & Co. 1893. (Price 15s.)

Mr. Theal, in issuing the present volume of his important work, carries the history of South Africa up to the year 1854. The matter deals with a period of twenty years, commencing with the sixth Kaffir war of 1834-35, during the administration of Sir Benjamin D'Urban, who, in 1837, was recalled on account of his dealings with the Kafirs. The question of the Governor's action which led up to this decision is clearly discussed by Mr. Theal, who states that it was afterwards generally admitted, both in England and South Africa, that he had acted wisely in those dealings. Another event with which the Author deals at length was the abandonment of the Cape Colony during 1836-37 by many thousands of burghers, who were intent upon seeking a new home in the wilderness, where they could be free from what they regarded as intolerable misrule. The event is of historical interest, inasmuch as the band of emigrants settled the country which is now the Transvaal, and at that period included the greater part of the present South African Republic, fully half of the Orange Free State, and the whole of Southern Bechuanaland to the Kalakari Desert, except the district occupied by the Batlapin. Following chapters are devoted to an account of the emigrant farmers in Natal; the administrations of Major-General Napier and Sir Peregrine Maitland; the seventh Kafir war; events in the territory north of the Orange River; and the creation of the Orange River sovereignty. The events connected with the Sand River Convention are also contained in this volume, and convey fully the terms of the Convention, as well as the events which led up to it. The volume is one of the most interesting of the series, dealing as it does with questions affecting the whole of South Africa. One important feature is an Appendix containing a list of the works referring to the period embraced in the volume, giving the title, author, date, and place of publication, together with a short notice of the contents of each.

page 106

India, Ceylon, Straits Settlements, Etc.

Ferguson, John.—Ceylon in 1893, describing the Progress of the Island since 1803, its present Agricultural and CommcrcuAi Enterprises, and its Attractions to Visitors. 12mo. Pp. xv-491. London: John Haddon and Co. 1893.

The "Handbook of Ceylon," which has now reached its fourth edition, is a succinct and popular account of the Island, contributed by a gentleman who possesses a better knowledge of the Colony than probably any other resident. In its present form it will prove of service to all interested in the Island, whether they are connected with it in either an official, commercial, or general capacity, whilst for those home residents who have relatives there, or for intending settlers, it will prove invaluable, The pleasure-seeker and tourist will by its aid be enabled to decide upon a definite tour, having the advantage of noting that which is worth seeing and so saving considerable time and trouble on arrival in the Colony. The various chapters dealing with a general history of Ceylon, its social progress, native agricultural and manufacturing interests, the planting industry, prospects for capitalists, &c., have all been brought up to date, whilst several have been entirely re-written. The Appendix, which occupies about half the work, is divided into fifteen divisions of almost entirely new matter, including the lectures delivered by the Author before the Royal Colonial Institute and the London Chamber of Commerce during, 1892; a great deal of information respecting the staple planting product, tea, and other industries; much respecting shooting trips and sport; with accounts of the steamer trip round the island, and the journey across through the Eastern and Uva provinces to the new Railway Extension and thence to the "Buried Capital" of the North Central Province. The latest information respecting Buddhism in Ceylon is afforded through a long review of the valuable new book on the subject by the Bishop of Colombo, while the position of Christianity and Missions in the island is fairly indicated. The main results of the Census of 1891 are given, and a Glossary of native terms from a paper compiled under official auspices, which will be very useful for reference. A full Index makes all the main "facts and figures," as well as the general information, readily available. A large number of new engravings have been added, both in the text and the appendices, whilst a map of the island has been included which will be found convenient for reference.

Trimen, Henry (M.B. Lond., F.R.S.—A Handbook of the Flon of Ceylon. Part 1. 8vo. Pp. xvi-327, and plates. London: Dulau & Co. 1893.

The Author of this work holds the position of Director of the Botanic Gardens of Ceylon, and has on various occasions contributed useful information regarding the flora of the island. In an introductory note Mr. page 107 Trimen explains that the object of this Handbook is to enable observers in Ceylon to ascertain the name of any plant they may find growing wild, and when this is arrived at to trace its distribution and to investigate its properties and uses. The work refers to Ceylon only, the descriptions laving been made wholly from Ceylon specimens, although certain other plants which are not natives of the island, but have been introduced and are met with in a more or less completely wild or naturalised state, are included amongst the species. A collection of twenty-five coloured plates accompanies the work, which has been selected from an extensiv series illustrating the Ceylon flora which is preserved in the Library of the Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya. This collection was commenced more than fifty years ago, and has been steadily continued under successive directors. It is now stated to number several thousand drawings, and, it is worthy of note, has been wholly the work of three members of one Sinhalese family employed successively as draftsmen on the Garden Staff. Mr. Trimen has rendered considerable service by embodying with a description of the species a series of notes on their history, distribution and uses.

Tyacke, Mrs. R. H.—How I shot my Bears; or, Two Years' Tent life in Kullu and Lahoul. 12mo. Pp. xi-318. London: Sampson Low, Marston & Co. 1893. (Price 7s. 6d.)

In this description of a lady's sporting tour in India, it is explained that Kullu was selected as a country little disturbed by sportsmen from India, and where a not too rigorous climate and fair shooting could be combined with some chance of obtaining the necessaries of life. The Authoress and her party had the choice of three routes to this distant portion of India, one being from Simla, another from Pathankote, and a third from; Jullundhur. The second of these having been selected, the first part of the route included the Kangra Valley of tea fame and over the Bahu Pass to Karaon. The destination of the party is described as being famous for its forests, which are under the protection of the Indian Forest Department which enforces strict regulations regarding the preservation of the trees. Kullu, although not thickly stocked with game, nevertheless affords good sport to those who, like the Authoress, prefer freedom to frequenting the better known sporting districts of India. The game to be found in Kullu is stated to be most varied, the bag, for one year, of the party including pheasant, chikor, snipe, duck, barking deer, goral, black bears, red bears, and musk deer. In addition to relating her various hunting experiences, Mrs. Tyacke gives a good account of the scenery of the country, together with a description of the native inhabitants, their customs, manners, &c. The latter portion of the book contains an account of Lahoul, which is under British protection, and lies to the north of Kullu. Much useful information may be gleaned by those interested in sporting adventures from a perusal of the work, as well as many hints regarding the necessary clothing, &c., for a hunting tour in Northern India.

page 108

West Indies.

Ward, Lieutenant-Colonel the Hon. C. J. (C.M.G.)—Jamaica at Chicago: an Account descriptive of the Colony of Jamnica, with Historical and other Appendices. Sm. 4to. Pp. 95, New York: Wm. J. Pell. 1893.

Few, if any, of the handbooks issued in connection with the Chicsgo Exhibition surpass, as regards print, paper, and illustrations, that of Jamaica. The work has been compiled under the direction of the Hon. Colonel C. J. Ward, C.M.G., who occupied the position of Commissioner, and contains a general description of the Colony, which is the most important of the British West India Islands, not only on account of its greater size, but also by reason of the varied beauty of its scenery, the capabilities of its soil, and the healthiness of its climate. Following at account of the early history of the Island and its various parishes, are chapters relating to sport, the Blue Mountains, climate, trade, varieties of cultivation, and general statistical information regarding Jamaica. The illustrations, which are numerous, are reproductions from photographs of the scenery of the Island and add considerably to the value of the hook as a guide for the visitor and tourist.

General.

Burton, Captain Sir Richard F. (K.C.M.G.)—Personal Narrative of a Pilgrimage to Al-Madinah and Meccah. 2 vols. 8vo, Pp. xxviii-436, xii-479. (Price 12,s.)

A Mission to Gelele, King of Dahome. 2 vols. 8vo. Pp. xxi 256, viii-805. (Price 12s.)

Vikram and the Vampire; or, Tales of Hindu Devilry. 8vo Pp. xxi-243. (Price 6s.) London: Tylston & Edwards. 1893.

This memorial edition of the works of the late Sir Richard F. Burton has been produced mainly owing to the public-spirited action of the publishers, Messrs. Tylston and Edwards, whose intention it is, with the co-operation of Lady Burton, to produce the whole edition at their own expense. The work will appear periodically, and include the chief writings of the eminent scholar and traveller. Three of these have already been issued, viz. "Pilgrimage to Al-Madinah and Meccah;" "a Mission to Gelela, King of Dahome," and "Vikram and the Vampire, or Tales of Hindu Devilry." The first is a narrative of absorbing interest, and is considered by many to be one of the best works of Burton. The second is of interest at the present time in view of the recent expedition of the French to Dahomey, and of events which may follow in the near future, whilst it contains an account of the Author's expedition, which was one of the most page 109 hazardous he ever engaged in. The third and most recent issue is an old and thoroughly Hindu legend composed in Sanskrit and translated by Sir Richard Burton, who possessed an intimate knowledge of the language. The edition, which will be uniform, will prove one of the most complete as well as correct of Sir Richard Burton's works. The cost of each volume has been placed at as low a price as possible, in order that it may come within reach of all, whilst the printing, binding, and illustrations are all that could be desired. A word of praise is due to Mr. Smithers, who has devoted considerable time and trouble to the work of collating and revising the proof sheets for the press.

Payne, Edward John (M.A.)—Voyages of the Elizabethan Seamen to America: Select Narratives from the 'Principal Navigations' of Hakluyt. 12mo. Pp. lvi-272. Oxford: Clarendon Press. 1898. (Price 5s.)

The matter comprised in this volume is gathered from the important work of Hakluyt, which, to use Mr. Payne's own words, is "mainly the monument of the great English navigators and maritime adventurers of his own time who overthrew the Spanish colossus that bestrode the ocean, established that naval supremacy on which after-ages reared the fabric of the British Empire and prepared the way for the founders of the great Anglo-American nation." For patriotism and force of character, and in the wealth of dramatic incident embodied in their careers, few more interesting groups can be found in history than the three famous navigators whose voyages are commemorated in this volume. Hawkins, Frobisher, and Drake are remembered among us, not only as the three lieutenants of the admiral who repulsed the Spanish Armada, but as those who, by their assaults on the Spanish possessions in America, had done more to provoke the Spanish invasion of England. The exploits of these men cannot fail to claim attention at the present time, and to prove of interest to a large number of those interested in the building up of the British Empire. Not only has Mr. Payne given us a full account of the voyages of Hawkins, Frobisher, and Drake, but he has introduced his subject with a sketch of the life and works of Hakluyt, which is a masterly review of the great work entitled "The Principal Navigations, Voyages, Traffiques and Discoveries of the English Nation," which was published nearly three hundred years ago.

Gibbins, H. de B. (M.A.)—British Commerce and Colonies from Elizabeth to Victoria. 12mo. Pp. viii-136. London: Methuen & Co. 1893.

The object of this history of British Commerce since the days of Queen Elizabeth is stated to be to supply the want of a short text-book, which should present the main outlines of and facts about our commercial progress in a simple and concise form, without going into those interesting but elaborate details which more fitly belong to larger works. The work page 110 is issued for the use of schools and colleges which now devote some attention to commercial as well as to political history, as well as for business men who take an interest in the development of our national commerce, but who have not time for a lengthened study of the subject. The author divides his subject into seventeen headings, commencing with the Merchant Companies and Commercial Progress, that formed so prominent a feature in the history of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and embracing such subjects as Colonisation, Commerce, the American Colonies and their separation, Modern Colonial Development, &c. The chapter upon Colonisation has been based chiefly upon the Rev. A. Caldecott's excellent work, "English Colonisation and Empire," whilst Mr. E. J. Payne's "European Colonies" has been largely drawn upon. Under the heading Modern Colonial Development, Mr. Gibbins again makes use of the arguments set forth by Mr. Caldecott, but, in one instance, goes considerably further by stating that our West Indian Colonies are now in a somewhat critical position owing to the decline of the sugar industry. This is far from correct, as in almost all these Colonies, by the aid of new industries, and a slight revival in the sugar industry, there is a decided improvement in trade prospects, as the latest official statistics will prove. Forming an Appendix is a list of our possessions and Colonies, with the date and manner of acquisition, and their commercial products. Although the reference to each is too brief, it nevertheless shows at a glance the various settlements of the British Empire in each quarter of the globe. Here, however, several errors and omissions occur, such as the non-inclusion of gold amongst the exports of British Guiana; Sisal hemp, which has done so much to increase the prosperity of the Bahamas, is not mentioned; St. Kilts appears as one of the Leeward Islands instead of St. Kitt's; the Grenadive Islands appear instead of the Gretadines; whilst Barbados (which is spelt Barbadoes) is stated to form one of the Windward Islands federation, whereas it was separated from that group, and became a distinct government, in 1885. Amongst the African Colonies, the Gambia is stated to be now under the governor of Sierra Leone, and Lagos subordinate to the governor of the Gold Coast, whereas the former was created a separate government in 1888, and the latter was in 1886 separated from the Gold Coast and erected into a separate colony. It is useless to further enlarge upon similar errors, which skull be corrected, and the work generally revised before it can be recommended for school use.

The Imperial and Asiatic Quarterly Review and Oriental and Colonial Record. October 1893. Vol. VI. No. 12. Woking: Oriental University Institute. (Price 5s.)

Amongst the nineteen articles which form the present issue of this Magazine, several are of more than usual interest. Lord Chelmsford continues his article on the "Defence of India," and replies to various criticisms upon the subject, more especially referring to the remarks of page 111 Mr. George Curzon, which have appeared in the press. Mr. A. Michie draws attention to a probable alliance between China and India in view of events now occurring in the East, whilst other articles are contributed by Sir Roper Lethbridge, Mr. J. B. Pennington, Mr. G. H. Le Maistre and Dr. G. W. Leitner, upon various questions affecting the Indian Empire. Under the African section the Marquis of Lorne contributes a note on the Imperial British East Africa Company and its last proposals, and maintains that East Africa must remain part and parcel of the British Empire. The Hon. J. L. Parsons, who for several years occupied the position of Government Resident of the Northern Territory of South Australia, replies to an article which appeared in the April issue of the Magazine on "Australia for Anglo-Indians," and refutes the sentiments made by the author who styled himself "an Anglo-Indian Colonial." A scheme for the production of British unity is submitted by Mr. A. Silva White, the remaining articles being all more or less of general interest.

Greswell, Rev. William Parr.—The British Colonies and their I Industries. 12mo. Pp. xiii-132. London: George Philip & Son. 1893.

Mr. Greswell has followed up his useful series of Colonial Histories and Geographies by producing a compact little work on the British Colonics and their industries, which for convenience of reference is divided into two portions: the first containing a number of facts relating to the history, area, physical features; population, and products of each Colony and settlement, and the second, containing a short and descriptive account of more than thirty typical industries which constitute the chief wealth of these Colonies. The work is intended for school purposes and furnishes interesting reading for the pupil. The various industries referred to by the Author include the fisheries of Newfoundland, lumbering in Canada, sponge and sisal industries of the Bahamas, indiarubber and palm-oil industries of West Africa, farming in South Africa and Australia, diamond-mining, tea-planting, &c. The information embodied has been gleaned from various reliable sources and is tolerably correct although in some instances it is somewhat out of date. Under the heading Sheep-shearing in Australia no mention is made of shearing by machinery, which is now in vogue in many parts of Australia, whilst amongst the descriptions of the various Colonies no mention whatever is made of Hong Kong. In the preface, Mr. Greswell embodies a suggestion, which has to some extent already been carried out by the Association for the Promotion of Geographical Teaching in Public Schools, of which Mr. B. B. Dickenson, of Rughy, is Honorary Secretary, regarding a series of lantern slides illustrating the progress and development of Colonial industries, ocean Currents, forest and desert tracts, &c., which is worthy the consideration of lecturers to schools and colleges, who would thus be enabled to present typical views and features in detail, revealing the physical, industrial, and other characteristics of a country; and so impressing upon the minds of the pupils certain cardinal distinctions well worth knowing.