As we have said, there is much matter for thoughtful consideration in the compass of this handsomely-executed book; and we again commend it to the acceptance of our readers.
PAGES AND PICTURES: From the Writings of J. FENIMORE COOPER. With Notes by SUSAN FENIMORE COOPER. In one Volume: pp. 400. New-York: W. A. TOWNSEND AND COMPANY.
IT is with even something _more_ than 'unusual pleasure' that we call the attention of our readers to '_Pages and Pictures_:' the superb work of Miss SUSAN FENIMORE COOPER, just issued by those enterprising and tasteful publishers, Messrs. W. A. TOWNSEND AND COMPANY, at Number 46 Walker-street, a locality where book-men 'most do congregate.' It is but simple justice to say, that no work so profusely and beautifully illustrated, and with such unlimited expenditure for paintings, engravings, paper, printing and binding, has ever been issued in this country. The engravings alone, executed from precious original pictures in the very highest style of the art of celature, we are assured, cost over _ten thousand dollars_! The paper, fine and delicate in tint, is of the firm consistence of 'Bristol-Board,' the _ne plus ultra_ of printing-paper: and of the binding we can only say that it is exceedingly tasteful--exceedingly beautiful. From a carefully-considered and elaborate review of this excellent work, by GEORGE RIPLEY, Esq., we make the annexed brief but interesting extract. As touching _the_ work by which Mr. COOPER first became popularly known to his countrymen as an American novelist, it is well worthy of preservation in these pages:
'THE plan of this volume has the attraction of novelty, and it is executed, not only in the spirit of filial affection, but with sound judgment, evincing the mingled frankness and reserve which were due to the relation between the subject and the editor. It consists of a selection of episodes from the writings of Mr. COOPER, illustrative of the different phases of his mind, and of the characteristics of his respective productions. In connection with these extracts, the editor has added a large amount of original matter, explaining the origin and history of Mr. COOPER'S most important works, and giving a variety of biographical incidents and reminiscences, which serve to throw light on the personal career of the distinguished novelist.