municating to the hearers an amount of biblical knowledge, and a facility of applying it, immensely beyond what is accomplished by any of the methods of preaching now in vogue. It would be at the same highly doctrinal. Does the preacher wish to set forth in all its majesty, the doctrine of the Divine sovreignityGod's method of ruling over his enemies, and in the hearts of his people-let him select the history of Pharaoh, and the account of the temptation of Hezekiah by the messengers providentially sent from the king of Babylon; the one case illustrating God's glorious prerogative in making use of the sins, and in nerving' the cowardly hearts, of wicked men; the other, exhibiting the manner in which He so arranges the events of His providence, that good men may fall into outward transgression, as the only effectual method of discovering unto them the deep mysteries of their own hearts. Does any one wish to present in the strongest light the immense difference between the carnal and the spiritual mind, in all the power of actual and contending contrast, let him take the story of Herod and John the Baptist. Would he preach on the atonement; what will so exhibit the awful doctrine of the need of expiation, as the history of the crucifixion, and of the mysterious agonies of Gethsemane? Would he exhibit in the most convincing light the cardinal truth of justification by faith only, without the works of the law; where will he find anything more satisfactory, more conclusive, more silencing to all cavils and all self-righteousness, than the subduing story of the dying thief upon the cross, who went down to his grave justified, because in his last moments he was enabled to exercise that wondrous faith with which God is ever well pleased, and in the possession of which the soul can never be separate from Him from whom alone this grace procedes. Is retribution the high theme which the preacher wishes to bring to bear upon the conscience; let him not merely talk about obligation, and the fitness of things, and the good of the universe; but turn to the awful description of the flood, or of the overthrow of Sodom and Gomorrah, or of the last great day of judgment. Would he present God's everlasting love, his overflowing mercy and loving kindness; there is for him the birth, and life, and death of Jesus, and the history of the penitent souls from whom he never turned away.

But we are wandering from our author, although the train of thought in which we have indulged, is directly and naturally suggested by the perusal of his book. We would conclude by recommending it, as a work admirably adapted for private devotional reading, and especially for the family circle, in short, as one of the most valuable aids to the cultivation of a solid religious spirit, that has lately been sent forth from the press.

'This is the true sense of the Hebrew; pin, a positive and physical rather than a moral influence.

ARTICLE X.

CRITICAL NOTICES.

1. The History of the Poloponessian War by Thucydides; according to the text of Dindorf; with notes: For the use of Colleges. By JOHN J. OWEN, D.D., Principal of the Cornelius Institute, New York. Leavitt & Trow, 1848.

Mr. Owen is well known to the literary and classical public, for the very valua ble series of books in which he has now for several years been most laboriously, and faithfully, and usefully engaged. His editions of the Anabasis and Cyropedia of Xenophon, and of the Odyssey of Homer, have become standard works in our best academies and colleges. They have ever been noticed in terms of approbation in the pages of this review, and we are glad to find that approbation so universally sanctioned by the opinions of the best classical scholars and teachers in the country. To the present work he has given unusual care and attention, and the result has been one of the most finished editions of this very difficuit author that has been presented to the public. It does not abound in the philosophical and political disquisitions of Arnold; for this was not the author's main design. It is not marked by the showy and useless pedantry which so often accompanies works of a similar kind. But its merit, and a very high merit it is, consists in this, that he does make plain to the student, and enables him to read with comparative ease, the most difficult author, in some respects, in the Greek language. This he effects by keeping ever before his mind, as he seems to have done in all his former works, the wants of the student as discovered by a careful examination of the peculiar obscurities of his author, and by his own tact and experience as a faithful and successful teacher." In previous readings of Thucydides many years ago, we had made written memoranda of his most perplexing passages and peculiar idioms. On comparing them with this edition, we have almost invariably found, that the help required was given in the very places where it was most needed, and that too with the least critical parade. Other authorities are briefly referred to, their respective expositions examined, the editor's own opinion modestly yet firmly expressed, the sense clearly brought out, and all this with the least waste of unnecessary comment. In reading some editions of this and other difficult Greek authors, it is a common thing to find a most provoking silence on the very passages which most require elucidation; whilst others, which readily explain themselves, and which might be safely and usefully left to the student's own skill, are overloaded with pedantic and unnecessary comment. This is very much the case with the edition of Bloomfield. Now Mr. Owen seems to have had a conscience in this matter. He has resolutely taken in hand every difficulty, and whenever he fails in elucidation, (which is but seldom,) it is in company with the ablest critics who have labored in vain to clear up all the intricacies, and anomalies, and strange constructions, to say nothing of the corruptions, of this writer. Thucydides seems to have taxed the powers of the Greek tongue to its utmost, and to have ventured on licenses to the widest extent to which they could possibly be carried. On this account, with all his difficulties, and because of these very difficulties, there is no Greek author, the study of whom is more valuable in acquiring a knowledge of the power and range of the language. In other respects also no writer more deserves to be read in our schools and colleges. The time is coming when the chief value of classical learning will be found in its moral and political aspects; and here Thucydides is invaluable. The states of Greece presented a miniature of the world. Their wars, their diplomacy, their intrigues, their treaties so often and so solemnly made for scores of years and then broken in as many days, their progressive democracies, their demagogueism, their popular parties, the immense power of the evil traits of human nature, the feeble influence of the good--all these, as presented in the graphic pages of Thucydides, furnish lessons not for their own age only, but for ours, and for many, we have sad reason to believe, that shall yet succeed us.

Besides his clear and concise notes, Mr. Owen has furnished the student with an admirable aid in the brief notices he has prefixed to each section. In addition to this he has also taken pains to interest the student beforehand in striking passages. Such help when it can be properly given, we regard as of far more value than that which comes in the way of supplementary notes. The interest thus excited in the mind becomes a powerful inducement to study; it is continually accompanied by the high pleasure of discovering excellencies and beauties, which had they not been so pointed out, would have been overlooked amid the toil and perplexity necessarily accompanying the student, on his first reading of any author. We have not space to give at length examples of this peculiar excellence, in which this book differs from many others, but would especially direct the student or teacher to the remarks which are made to precede the famous speech of Pericles chapter xxxv, &c. of the second book, and to the observations respecting the account of the plague at Athens, introductory to ch. 47, &c. Lib. II.

The edition is accompanied by a very valuable map after that of H. Kieport, Berlin, 1846. It is very clear, beautifully engraved and printed, and as far we have been able to judge, a most accurate guide in following the rapid and stirring events narrated by the author. No one acquainted with Thucydides need be told how useful, in fact how indispensable to the reading of this author is such an auxiliary. Mr. Owen's edition is based on that of Dindorf, Leipzig, 1824. He seems to have made free use of the best aids in preparing his own work, and especially to have turned to the best and most concise account, the valuable labors of Arnold. He makes the most frank acknowledgments of the help he has derived from others. Every high-minded classical scholar, who faithfully examines his work, will, we think, concede to Mr. Owen's own labors, and the new facilities he has afforded for understanding this very difficult author, a merit not surpassed by any of his predecessors. The work, at present, is limited to the first three books. When finished in another volume, according to the author's plan, it will doubtless take a high place among the standard classical works of our own day and country. 2. An Earnest Ministry the Want of the Times. By JOHN ANGELL JAMES. With an Introduction, by Rev. J. B. CONDIT, D. D., of Newark. M. W. Dodd: 1948. It is manifest that serious doubts begin to be felt by many of the best minds in the church, in regard to the present mode of educating the Christian ministry, and the existing character of pulpit teaching. We know that the thoughts of many are turned to this subject, and a rigid investigation is being made. There is a seen and felt deficiency of moral power in the evangelical pulpit of our day, and how to supply that want is one of the gravest and most vital questions that pertains to human duty and destiny. This little work of Mr. James, shows that the same feeling exists on the other side of the water. He attributes the comparative inefficiency and non-success of the ministry, to a lack of earnestness; and earnestly does he labor in these pages, to infuse new life and energy into his brethren. He shows the nature of the earnestness needed, and the various relations in which it is essential. draws his examples from the apostolic ministry, and from the great and successful preachers of a more modern date: discusses the motives to earnestness and the means for obtaining it, and urges the necessity of Divine influence in order to an efficient ministry. The work has its faults; it is decidedly English; its views on some points we think erroneous; the first impression is decidedly weakened by extending the discussion, and undue prominence may be given to one single quality. And yet we rejoice in the reception which has been given it. It really meets a felt want, and comes home to the convictions of every reader. There is a moral power in it to move one's sluggish spirit. No minister can read it, and not feel ashamed of his cold manner and lifeless way of preaching the glorious gospel of the blessed God. It has been suggested that a copy of it be given to each theological student. We say, let the Christian that complains of his minister's dullness, or inefficiency in the great work of winning souls, present him with a copy of the work. The Introduction, by Dr. Condit, is a sensible and judicious one, and neutralizes the errors, if any there be in the body of the work. We expected an article on the Christian Ministry, from the same sound pen, for our present number, but circumstances have delayed it.

3. A Key to the Book of Revelation, with an Appendix. By JAMES M. MACDONALD, Minister of the Presbyterian Church, Jamaica, L. I. Second Edition. New London: Colfax & Holt. 1848.

THE present state of the world, and especially the events now transpiring on the continent of Europe, naturally incite to inquiry and investigation on the subject of the prophecies. Much will doubtless be written, and many new theories divulged. A new Quarterly has just made its appearance, mainly devoted to this object.

This little work of Mr. Macdonald's is unpretending; yet it possesses admirable qualities. There is no parade of learning, and yet it is far from being wanting in good scholarship. It is brief, and yet intelligent; while the style is clear and simple. It was not prepared so much for learned theologians, as for the great mass of educated and thinking minds; and this gives it a more popular and common-sense aspect than the majority of similar works. Its peculiarity is indicated in a single sentence. It is a very mistaken idea that the Apocalypse is a confused medley of disconnected visions. On the contrary, it is one of the most methodical books of the New Testament. It is characterized by unity and continuity of design and structure, and has the connection and order of history itself" Following out this idea, the author frees the book from much of its wonted confusion and difficulty, and enables the common mind to read it with understanding and profit. We cordially commend it as rational and safe, though we differ from the respected author in some few of his minor interpretations. The speedy call for a second edition is good evidence that its merits are appreciated by those who are seeking light on the dark yet intensely interesting subject of which it treats.

4. Fundamental Philosophy, or Elements of Primitive Philosophy; being the First Division of a Complete Philosophical Science. From the German of WILLIAM TRANGOTT KING, Professor of Philosophy in the University of Leipsic. Hudson, Ohio: W. Skinner & Co.

THIS work is a translation of the leading propositions of King's Fundamental Philosophy. In the work referred to, he seeks to lay the grounds for a scientific construction of a system of philosophy. He, accordingly, endeavors to set forth in it the first principles of all philosophical investigation, its limits and the specific forms of its actual results. It constitutes thus a department of science that precedes in nature the desired sciences of logic, metaphysics, ethics and the like, and is the common ground and source of them all. The leading propositions only of this work are presented in this translation. In this form, it is believed, the work will prove to be a most convenient, as it is a much needed manual, to all students of mental science. It embodies inquiries which are not discussed very satisfactorily in any English work; while the simplicity of style, the strictness of method, and the profound learning and laborious research which characterize it, will commend it to every candid reader. It will be found to be remarkably free from the mysticism and extravagance which mark some departments of German speculation.

5. Hora Biblica Quotidiana. Daily Scriptural Readings: By the late THOMAS CHALMERS, D.D., LL.D. In three volumes. Harper & Brothers.

THE third and last volume of this series has made its appearaace. The style in which the work is got up is exceedingly beautiful. The work is worthy of its fine dress. It presents the distinguished author in a new and very interesting aspect. We see Chalmers in these pages, not as the scholastic theologian or the profound philosopher, but as the humble Christian, sitting at the feet of Jesus, and seeking converse with God in private meditations on His Word. These "readings" are not meant to be expository or critical, and yet they embody a vast amount of erudition and biblical criticism. They are eminently spiritual and practical. They everywhere breathe a most lovely spirit, and show that that great mind walked with God in the daily experience of his own heart. They are the first free practical thoughts of a great and sanctified mind on the more prominent passages and interesting topics of scriptural doctrine and history. They are admirably fitted to instruct and comfort God's people; to promote their growth in grace, and love for a pure, simple, spiritual religion. We doubt not that the work will be read and appreciated by very many, and be the means of much good.

6. Memoir of WILLIAM ELLERY CHANNING, with Extracts from His Correspondence and Manuscripts. In three volumes. Boston: William Crosby & H. P. Nichols. 1848.

THIS work is in the main an autobiography, the materials of which have been arranged and presented to the public, in three finely executed volumes, by a nephew of the late Doctor. It contains a pretty full, and apparently impartial history of his life, and also extensive selections from his correspondence and various MSS. We are glad to see these volumes. They are a just tribute to a truly great man, who, aside from his theological errors, was every-way worthy of our profound respect and admiration. No one can regret his religious errors more than ourselves; they are an immense drawback on the aggregate of our estimate of the man; and while they gave him commanding influence with those of the same faith-or rather no faith-they greatly circumscribed his general usefulness. His peculiar views are not concealed in this memoir. The history of that sad change which came over his religious belief, and of the great controversy of his times connected with Unitarianism-is a very interesting and instructive chapter, and furnishes many materials indispensable to an impartial account of so important a controversy. This portion of the work will lessen the value of these volumes with many. But against other portions, no objections can be raised. His correspondence exhibits him in a very lovely point of view. As a friend, a man, a citizen, a philanthropist, a reformer, a scholar, we see very much in him to praise. His heart was warm and large. He felt for others' woes; and devoted his high attainments and the energies of a noble being, to the good of his race. These volumes will be read with interest by his many admirers. They will not lesson the regard which is felt for his memory.

7. Notes, Explanatory and Practical, or the General Epistles of James, Peter, John and Jude. By ALBERT BARNES. Harper & Brothers, 1848.

This volume is uniform in size and appearance, with the nine previous volumes of "Notes" on the New Testament, by the same author: It is executed on the same plan, and exemplifies the same piety, talent, research and practical wisdom, which were furnished by the former volumes. The ten volumes, to be followed by another we trust, on the Acalypse, are an important and most valuable acqusition, to aid in the study and understanding of this part of the Bible. The character and value of this commentary as a whole, are too well known to require explanation or commendation from us. It is beyond a doubt the most valuable for all practical purposes on the list. There is enough of criticism in it to make the text in general intelligible, and yet not enough to burden it; while the amount and manner of illustration and exposition are unequalled by any other work. The plan of the work is eminently adapted to convenience and facility; the style is simple and clear, yet vigorous; the spirit breathed out in these pages, is one of humble earnest piety; while the distinguishing doctrines of grace are clearly stated and defended, and applied with no little ability and power.

For Sabbath-schools and Bible-classes and families, and indeed for the general reader, who is seeking a practical acquaintance with the Scriptures, it is invaluable. It meets a want which no other commentary supplies. It has done already immense good; it will do more. The author is doing a great work in this respect; may he live to complete it. It has already come into very extensive use; its merits are more and more appreciated by the public. It has obtained a high reputation in England and Scotland. The present volume contains very decided testimonials from distinguished British clergymen, of various denominations. These testimonials, from such sources, are peculiarly gratifying and refreshing, and ought to go very far towards removing the prejudice against the work, which yet lingers in the minds of many.

8. History of the Girondists; or Personal Memoirs of the Patriots of the French Revolution. From unpublished sources. By ALPHONSO DE LAMARTINE. In three volumes, Harper and Brothers.

The events which have recently transpired in France, impart peculiar and intense interest to this work, and fix the eyes of the civilized world upon the distinguished author, in mingled admiration and anxiety. The subject-matter of this history is