ON THE GENERATION OF SPECIES. By St. George Mivart, F. R. S. London: MACMILLAN & CO. 1871.
The Darwinian theory of the Origin of Species, has, perhaps, aroused more attention, excited more dispute, and won more converts in a shorter time among scientific and unscientific men, than any other of equal importance promulgated in the 19th century. It seems to be the rule either to swallow the theory whole, or reject it as unworthy of belief, and as conflicting with orthodoxy. The author of the work before us has, however, taken a middle ground, from which we opine it will be difficult to dislodge him, though it is within full range of the batteries of both the contending parties. While he admits the truth of Darwin's views regarding the operation of natural selection as a cause of the origin of species, he denies that it is the sole cause, yet maintains that if it could be demonstrated to be the sole cause, it would in no manner conflict with orthodox belief in the Scriptures as the revelation of God to mankind. The perfect candor of the author is one of the marked features of the discussion, and his style is a model of pure terse English writing, seldom, if ever, excelled by any scientific writer. The work is an octavo, most beautifully printed on tinted paper, and illustrated by many fine wood engravings.
THE ARCHITECT'S AND BUILDER'S POCKET COMPANION AND PRICE BOOK, Consisting of a Short but Comprehensive Epitome of Decimals, Duodecimals, Geometry and Mensuration; with Tables of U. S. Measures, Sizes, Weights, Strengths, etc., of Iron, Wood, Stone, and Various Other Materials; Quantities of Materials in Given Sizes and Dimensions of Wood, Brick, and Stone; and a Full and Complete Bill of Prices for Carpenter's Work; also Rules for Computing and Valuing Brick and Brick Work, Stone Work, Painting, Plastering, etc. By Frank W. Vogdes Architect. Philadelphia: Henry Carey Baird, Publisher, 406 Walnut street. Price by mail, postpaid, $2.
This is a small work, but printed in small type, and containing a large amount of useful matter, thoroughly indexed for reference; bound in morocco; and provided with a clasp, so as to be conveniently carried in the pocket.
GAS SUPERINTENDENT'S POCKET COMPANION for the year 1871. By Harris & Brother, Gas Meter Manufacturers, Nos. 1115 and 1117 Cherry street, Philadelphia. Philadelphia: Henry Carey Baird, Industrial Publisher, 406 Walnut street.