218 AGRICULTURE, &c. AMERICAN RAILROAD JOURNAL, AND [From the New-York Farmer.] Suggestions Relative to Gardeners' Work for April. By the Editor. BEANS.-The English dwarf, (vicia fubia,)||curious way of sinking wells in some parts of are planted early in April. Dwarf kidney and Asia. When the ground is sandy, a cylindri pole beans in the latter part of April, and incal tower of brick or stone work is made of the May and June. intended size of the well. This is suffered to rePOTATOES.-There are various varieties of main until the masonry becomes indurated, and This is a month of much activity among gar- this valuable vegetation. Those called the then it is gradually undermined until it is sunk deners. He who is diligent in enriching his early are less productive. Plant in hills or even with the surface of the ground. If the soil, in comminuting it, in the selection of the drills, in a rich foamy soil, from the first week well is not sufficiently deep, they add more mabest seed, and in covering them in such a man-in April until July. sonry, and again undermine. ner as is most calculated to promote and sus tain vegetation, will, under the ordinary blessings of Providence, meet with encouragement and reward; So from the root Springs lighter the green stalk; from thence the leaves More airy; last the bright consummate flower." OCCUPYING THE GROUND.-At this day it is a recent opinion that the soil requires no rest;| SWEET POTATOES, if planted in this month, should be put in a hot-bed, or under glass, and Among other plants to be attended to this Salt in India.-The soil of Hindostan is so much impregnated with salt, that a saline effervescence is seen in almost every low spot. Mud in Rivers.-The weight of mud daily carried down the river Ganges is calculated at 74 times the weight of the great pyramid of Egypt. Sunflower Oil-From the following article from the American Farmer, it will be seen that the sunflower oil is destined to become of much importance: Saltpetre in India.-Bishop Heber observes consequently, the more that is obtained from a Miscellaneous Rural and Scientific Gleanings. duce saltpetre is so great, that it encroaches that the tendency of the soil in Bengal to progiven portion of ground the better, provided it is well manured and a proper rotation pursued. By the EDITOR. upon walls and floors of the houses to an exSome persons will get twice the number as well Composition of the Atmosphere.-Nitrogen and tent often rendering them uninhabitable in a as quantity of crops from a garden spot. Peas, oxygen, with a small portion of carbonic acid few years. The saltpetre corrodes the best of for instance, may be planted on the sides of the gas, are the constituents forming the atmos-bricks, and crumbles them. bed of radishes. By the time the former are of phere. The two former are considered not to much height, the latter will be sufficiently large vary in their proportions. The proportion of to be pulled. Those who have no ground, ma- the latter depends on temperature, winds, rains, nure, nor labor to spare, should set out their and atmospherical pressure. At Geneva, accabbages beside the fences, at the corners of the cording to the experiments of Saussure, the beds, and in vacant places. A clergyman in- mean quantity of this gas in 1000 parts of air forms us that he has, in this way, raised a large by measure is at mid-day 4. 9, the minimum number of superior cabbages without apparently 3. 7, and the maximum 6. 2. He observes, that It has been tried, and found to answer effectuoccupying any portion of the ground. in Switzerland this gas increases in summer, ally all the purposes to which linseed is usually GLOBE ARTICHOKES, Cynara.-Sow the seeds and decreases in autumn-that at noon the applied. In paint it is superior to linseed, drying early in this month, in a bed of light moist quantity in December, January and February, much sooner, and imparting a gloss to the paint earth, preparatory to transplanting next spring. is to that in June, July and August, as 77 to not attainable from linseed. The expression of the oil is effected by the This is an excellent vegetable; will produce 100. Over wet soils the atmosphere contains good heads for six or seven years. less than over dry ones-more in the night than same machinery, and the same process used for ASPARAGUS.-Early in this month the seeds air than in the higher. Winds are considered passed through other machinery for the purpose in the day time-less in the lower strata of the expressing linseed oil; but the seed must first be should be sown in a very rich bed. Those who already have plants, should transplant them into to increase the quantity in the strata near the of hulling it. Charles A. Burnitz, Esq., of ground that has been well manured, and dug earth, by mixing that of the upper strata. The York, Pa., invented a machine a few years ago two spades deep. The rows should be near cause why there is less over wet soils is, proba- for bulling the seed, and has it now in operation one foot apart, and the plants in the row about bly, that fermentation is checked by excess of at his oil mill in the precincts of that village. By the aid of that machine he obtains double the moisture. Plants give out carbonic acid gas in the night, and thus increase the quantity. quantity of oil from the seed, and renders it of a BEETS.-Sow the seed in rich mellow earth from the first week in April to June. Northern and Southern Aspect.-On the quality very superior to that formerly obtained from sunflower seed. A complete machine will northern declivity of the Himmalah mountains, RADISHES.-Most garden soils are considered at the height of 15,000 feet, Capt. Gerrard found cost about three hundred dollars, including the unsuitable for radishes. A mixture of two the hills and vallies covered with vegetation and patent right. Mr. Barnitz will sell rights, and parts of sand with one of common garden or herds of deer, and flocks of pigeons. On the give all information on the subject to those who clayey earth, and a little manure, will give brit-southern declivity, at 10,000 ft. was the extreme tleness and transparency to the radish. Sow height of cultivation. This difference is in succession until the middle of May. CABBAGES.-The first of this month sow the seeds of the early kinds for summer nse. CARROTS.-Sow, for successive crops, from the first of April to June. the same distance. CELERY.-Sow the seed in moist mellow ground early this month. As soon as they are two or three inches high, prick them out into another bed. CRESS, OR PEPPER-GRASS.-Let this pleasant salad herb be sowed every week. GARDEN BURNET.—This is considered a good sup address him for the purpose. From twenty to seventy-five bushels of seed posed to be owing to the radiation of caloric may be produced from an acre, according to the from the table land of Thibet: the dryness of quality of the soil-the average on good ground the air in Central and Northern Asia, the small adapted to corn is fifty bushels. A bushel of the quantity of snow, and the serenity and transseed yields one gallon of oil, by Mr. Barnitz's parency of the atmosphere, facilitating radia-machinery and process, three quarts cold pressand one quart hot pressed. tion. Dew collected from the leaves of plants contains more carbonic acid gas than that from other substances. The gas given out in the night must be absorbed by the dew. Good corn land is adapted to the growth of the sunflower, and in proportion to its produce of corn will be its yield of sunflower seed. Th mode of culture is the same as that of corn We have no doubt that the cultivation of The Romans.-Pliny asserts that the Roman sunflower would prove profitable to the agricu with the same diligence that they pitched camps, flower seed than corn, with the same labor citizens, in early times, ploughed their fields turist. An acre of ground will yield more su they formed their armies for battle. and sowed their grain with the same care that expense; a bushel of sunflower seed is wort more than a bushel of corn. But (for there is Planting and Building-Cato says, a land-but in all new things) the improved machine, holder should apply himself to the planting of for expressing the oil must first be erected a think long before he builds." his fields early in his youth, but he ought to accessible to the farmer, for there is yet no a ket for the seed in the cities as there is for e and flaxseed. salad herb. Sow in April. INDIAN CORN for boiling-the early varieties sow in the latter part of April. LETTUCE-Sow in warm borders in the middle of the month, and in succeeding weeks. WHITE MUSTARD.-This is a pleasant salad, sown in April and May, in successive weeks. Planting in Scotland.-Sir Walter Scott's NASTURTIUM.-Sow the major or climbing History of Scotland contains the following: In The oil cake is an excellent article of her variety near fences, and the dwarf in hills. 1504, there was made "a series of regulations feed, and for this purpose will nearly pay the ONIONS.-Dig the ground early. Sow the for the improvement of rural economy, which pense of expressing the oil; consequent seed in the middle of the month, either broad imposes a heavier mulct than before on the des- farmer will get nearly a gallon of oil for cast or in drills. The white Portugal and the troyers of wood, the forests of Scotland being, bushel of seed, when mills shall be erected f silver skinned varieties are mild in their taste, as was alleged, utterly destroyed. For the purpose; but if he erects machinery, and cru and produce good crops. his own seed, the oil cake will more than pay same reason, every inheritor is directed to plant at least an acre of wood, to form parks and in- the labor and the interest on the cost of the closures, construct fish-ponds, stock rabbit-chinery; he will then of course have & gall oil for every bushel of seed. Sunflower oil warrens and dove-cotes, and plant orchards." The Horse. This noble animal appears to worth at least as much as linseed--it is O all the purposes to which linseed oil is appli PEAS. The early kinds should be put in find a congenial climate wherever the air is least a dollar a gallon. But inasmuch a the ground as early as possible, and in succes- pure. It is remarked that a low and marshy be applied to other purposes, it is much sive weeks. The dwarf varieties require a soil soil, in all countries, is uncongenial to him, and valuable than the latter. As a subs less rich than those that grow high. Vegetable that he rapidly degenerates. olive oil, for table use, it has no equal is considered better than animal matter. Sinking Wells.-Bishop Heber mentions allthree years past we have used it on our PARSLEY AND PARSNIP.-These are generally sown in the latter part of this month, in drills. The latter we consider one of the best vegetables put upon a table. clusively, and prefer it to the best sweet oil. It|| On the subject of Vegetable Sexuality, the||The climate is not cold, being in the south of is also equal to sweet oil for all medical purposes. author observes-"In plants of two houses, England, but wet and bleak. These sheep 219 For lamps also it is excellent; fully equal to which produce their stamens and pistils on dif- never live hard, and in winter you may see sperm oil, except that the lamps require trim-ferent roots, nature has provided many curious thousands of them feeding off turnips on the ming more frequently. It has the advantage, as methods to bring their pollen in contact with Mixture of Vegetables by the Roots. By J. ROBINSON. To the Editor of the New-York Farmer and American Gardener's Magazine. I offer the following facts relative to the mixture of seeds, and vegetables, with a view to accredit the testimony and facts of the "Old Man," and Mr. T. Bridgeman, contained in your former numbers. As dash the waves on India's breezy strand, Bright orbs, that light yon high ethereal plain, "Or bathe your radiant tresses in the main; Pale moon, that silver'st o'er night's sable brow;"For ye were witness to his parting vow! 66 Ye shelving rocks, dark waves, and sounding shore, Cotswold and other Varieties of Sheep. 8. case. carcases. lamp oil, of not being offensive, no disagreeable the stigmate of the female flowers; of these land, with a stack of hay in the middle of odor arising from its burning. Therefore, sun- the most singular is that of the Valisneria the field, and no shelter but stone fences, not flower oil may not only be substituted for linseed spiralis: this singular plant is wholly submers-a tree nor a hedge. oil, but for sperm and olive; and by aid of the ed, except the female flowers, which are fur- constitutioned sheep, but require abundance proper machinery, it can be produced for half nished with an elastic spiral stem; this spiral, of moist as well as dry food in winter, or they the cost of either. They are hardy, good when extended, is from three to seven feet, or would rapidly degenerate in wool and caror falls it still allows the female flowers to float more, in length, and when the river either rises on the surface: the male flowers expand in their submersed situation on short scapes, various breeds of cattle and sheep, adapted to which, when their anthers are ready to burst, the soils on which they are kept, and nothing In the small territory of Great Britain are detach themselves from the plant and float on strikes an Englishman more than the little vathe surface of the water, when the current riety seen here. bears them, or the winds propel them, to the United States are evidently from the same I was for many years anxious to obtain a Garden, has the following beautiful allusion to female flowers. Dr. Darvin, in his Botanic stock as the heath sheep of England, such as The common sheep of the sort of kidney beans, said to be stringless, the circumstance : even when old. I at length succeeded in getting some, which I found came up to the mark. may be seen on Bagshot heath, the DerbyThey were superexcellent in quality, and pershire hills, and other places. These common fectly stringless, but through carelessness and sheep have in most districts been crossed with neglect, they got mixed with others of differMerinoes, the wool of which ought to be exent shape add color. Being anxious to culticellent indeed to make up for their ill formed vate this valuable sort by themselves, I assorted every bean with my fingers, and planted Of late years many Leicesters them at a distance from all others; this I done have been brought from England, and an excellent breed they are, but coming from a more than once, but at last they had become so them and their descendants have suffered seinfected from growing with others of a differmild, moist climate, and rich soil, some of ent nature, that they proved to be a spurious breed, so that I at length had to abandon them. verely when wintered in the way that is too I could produce other corroborative facts, but common here. Some Lincolns and Southdowns this is sufficient to establish Mr. Bridgeman's By The large Dorsets, which, with a kindred have been brought, but there are other good doctrine; namely, that "as it is in the animal sheep which have never been introduced. frame, so it may be in the vegetable system. Disorders very frequently lay dormant from Ame-breed of Somerset sheep, supply the London one generation to another, and at length break out with all their vigor." I have therefore 95, are some queries by a subscriber re Mr. EDITOR,-In your last number, p. market with house lamb, are well worth being come to the same determination as Mr. B., and specting Cotswold Sheep, which would be would not suit the many who look to size inimported and tried in some parts of the middle shall not attempt in future to "bring a clean answered differently by different persons; but stead of symmetry. Would it not be worth states. The Ryelands are good sheep, but thing out of an unclean thing." Whenever I let each person who knows them contribute while for some of the Agricultural societies discover a mixture of vegetables of the same his mite. There are in various parts of Eng-to introduce these, with some of the smaller vaclass, growing together, I shall not attempt to land high rolling lands called wolds, as in rieties of British cattle as yet unknown here? Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Gloucestershire. The last are called the Cotswold hills, from an old Scotland is immense, and at the large sheep The number of sheep kept in England and practice is now out of date. practice of cotting or housing sheep, but this fairs, at stated times, in every part of the counare long woolled, large, and strong built, have Weyhill fair, in Hampshire, 1 have seen Cotswold sheep try, a stranger may see every variety. MR. EDITOR, I was much pleased to find without horns. They have some Leicester chiefly Hampshire Downs of all ages, aswhite faces and legs, broad noses, and are in your number for September, under "Items blood in them, from which all the long woolled sorted in lots, so that a buyer could find ewe 120,000 sheep penned for sale. These were of Farmer's Work, &c.," that you have very breeds in England have received great benefit. lambs in one pen, wether lambs in another, properly recommended to farmers the utility of They are, however, a coarser and hardier kind then shearlings, or 2 tooths as they call them, selecting and planting of the different varieties of sheep than the Leicester. of rare and choice fruit, which is much wanted, especially in the western part of this state. If this was duly attended to, much good might beers there, I found that large lots of Cotswold some of which then, (10th October,) were A few years ago, being amongst the farm. many flocks of Dorset and Somerset ewes, Besides these, but not penned, were expected to arise therefrom to all classes of wethers, four tooth or two shear sheep, might within a few days of lambing. In England, people, and particularly the grower. I hope your advice "to buy, and not to beg, pounds per quarter. I there saw them in the and the latter is a favorite meat. be had which would weigh on an average 56 beef and mutton are nearly the same price, buds and scions," may have its desired effect. butchers' shops, at Gloucester, of full that certainly is not so, for though the beef and The practice of begging cuttings of rare fruits weight, and close to them were hanging carhas become so general, and perhaps, it may be Here it said, unreasonable, that it has greatly deterred cases of the beautiful little Ryeland sheep, rior quality accounts for the price. pork are good, mutton is not so, and the infemany enterprizing horticulturists from culti-weighing only 14 or 16 lbs. per quarter, but vating rare fruits, from the continual applica-worth more per pound. In the market were H. tions from all quarters for scions, by amateurs tups for sale, large good sheep; their length woolled sheep, less than that of smaller sheep; P. S.-The price of Cotswold mutton, in of fruit, &c. Nurserymen, also, suffer by intro- struck the eye directly. A Mr. Large, of but even these of late years have been bred England, is like that of all the large long. ducing rare fruits at great expense. The de- Bradwell, Oxfordshire, on the border of Glou- there with so much pains, that they fatten mand will not compensate them for their trou-cestershire, gained many prizes at the Smith-earlier than formerly, and, not having age, ble, which certainly is but slender, if the giving field show, for his Cotswold sheep; one of their mutton has not so much flavor as it used system is long continued. Thus the cultivation which weighed 624 lbs. per quarter, or 250 to have. Some gentlemen keep wethers to a of fine fruit will be retarded by the penurious lbs. the carcase. disposition of its principal advocates. AN AMATEUR OF FRUIT. bred so heavy, two sheep to make the weight of course, makes the most profit he can, and But now they are not good age for their own tables; but the farmer, Vegetable Sexuality. By S. To the Editor have seen them latterly, at the London Christ-ly would have been kept to twice the are found much better in all respects; and I sells fat, at two years old, sheep which formerof the New-York Farmer and American mas shows, weighing from 30 to 36 lbs. per Gardener's Magazine. raise seed even from the best of such. Williamsburgh, L. I., March 1833. SIR,-In perusing "Stroud's Elements on quarter. Botany," I have been much pleased with &c. At age. observations on "Vegetable Sexuality," espeThe remarks of Mr. Smith are slightly in.light chaffy seeds, should be sprinkled with waORCHARD GRASS.-This, as well as many other many cially in reference to the Valisneria spiralis, poor, for, if it were so, heavy, long woolled ter or lime, it can be sown with man The land on the Cotswolds is not it is sowed. If it is well mixed with a little plasfrom the pen of Dr. Darvin. ter, and allowed to become well moistened before sheep could not live, much less get fat on it correct. 220 SUMMARY. AMERICAN RAILROAD JOURNAL, AND DELAWARE AND HUDSON CANAL.-It is gratifying to us to be enabled to state upon good information, that the spring floods have passed away, without injury to this Canal. vation. the matter, the most important part of the public pa-||payable on the delivery of each volume, so as to pers were preserved. The public records and locu make it $200 for the volume now ready, and the ments, being the chief objects of solicitude, the prinsame sum every second or third year, till the four vocipal and earliest efforts were made for their preserlumes are completed. We are thus particular in spe. The manner in which the fire originated has not cifying the terms, because, being most desirous that been ascertained. The necessary measures have, the liberality and good taste of this city should be ADVANTAGES OF REDUCING CANAL TOLLS -The Ash- however, been taken to obtain information on the stirred up to the encouragement of so magnificent a subject, and, as soon as the result is known, it will · tabula (Ohio) Sentinel of 23d ult., states the follow-be communicated to our readers. It appears that the work, we wish to show how conveniently it may ing facts respecting the evil operation of the high messenger, whose turn it was to watch, was absent, be accomplished. rate of tolls on the Erie Canal, and is of course re- from sickness; and that the person who usually Boston afforded to Mr. Audubon eighteen subscrijoiced at the material reduction recently effected in sleeps in the building, was not aware of the fire until bers-New York, as yet, not one. The work is in those rates by the Canal Commissioners. he was awakened from the outside. The Secretary has, with great promptness, enga-deed too costly, generally speaking, for individuals, sed several contigous houses opposite to Strother's though our city can and should furnish many excepHotel, for the use of the Treasury: the public books tions to this remark--but a plan quite within the and papers have already been removed to them; and reach of even moderate means, is this-that several the business of the Department will be transacted there to-day as usual." individuals, as many or as few as may be requisite, should associate together and present copies to dif. ferent public institutions. Columbia College, the University, the City Library, the Historical Library, the Athenæum, the Library of the New York Hospi. tal, the Lyceum, all should possess this admirable national work. The high tolls have long been a subject of just complaint to the merchants and farmers of the West, and the propriety of a reasonable reduction has long been urged in vain. The cause for this favorable and unexpected result, is owing more to the force of circumstances, than to any spirit of accommodation, | CLAIMS ON DENMARK.-We learn from the Balti and what reason and justice have repeatedly urged in vain, competition has suddenly accomplished. In more Chronicle, that the Commissioners appointed consequence of these unfavorable circumstances to to carry into effect the Convention with Denmark, the shippers, a great proportion of the produce of this and to distribute the fund provided to indemnify the State passed through the Welland Canal last season; and it is well for the interests of those concerned, claims of American merchants for spoliations upon that the subject has received so early and satisfactory their commerce, have closed the commission, and a consideration. made their final report to the State Department. The [From the New-York American of Tuesday.\ time limited by the Treaty and the act of Congress, The expedition of Capt. Back in search of Capt for the adjustment of these claims, and distribution Ross and his companions, who have not been heard of the funds, will expire on the 4th of April, after of since the summer of 1830, inspires almost as much which time the claimants will be entitled to receive interest here as in England; for it concerns all equal their respective proportions of the fund, at the Trealy who have a common interest and a common glory sury Department, of which due notice will be given. in whatever ennobles our race. Capt. Back, accom-The return from the Board is in such form as to panied by Dr. King, a young and accomplished phy-prevent any delay in the payment of the claims at sician, with three hardy countrymen, proceeds to. the Treasury. We learn, also, that the whole amount|| morrow to Montreal; and thence, as soon as possible, of claims presented and acted upon by the Board, sets out on his perilous journey. Mr. Audubon is a native American, and he has now devoted nearly forty years to the illustration of the history and habits of the birds of America. The actual cost of publishing the first volume was $25,000, independent of the time, talents, labors and exposure of the ornothologist himself. The Weather at Florence: Jan. 22.—A remarka. ble peculiarity of the weather here this winter is its extreme dryness. Instead of the deluges of rain which might naturally have been expected after the drought of the summer, we have scarcely had a thorough rainy day the last four months: the wells are still almost all dry, and the Arne lower than in summer. This may be a very serious affair, if we have not a rainy spring to drench the soil, which is still dry as dust a little way below the surface. was between three and four millions of dollars. The The Collector of this port, as we learn from the amount allowed is $2,151,425—and the amount to be Journal of Commerce, has suspended, until he can distributed amongst the claimants is $670,564 78, have the decision of the Secretary of the Treasury, so that the claimants will receive thirty one and oneMr. James Ballantyne, the friend of Scott-the the collection of the duties on the articles which eighth per cent. upon the sums allowed to them re-printer of his works, one of the chosen few to whom constitute the outfit of Capt. Back and his party-spectively. the Waverley secret was confided from the begin. chiefly presents for Indians, &c. We trust there is ning, and from whose able pen were expected some inHASSLER'S REPORT ON WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.teresting additions to the biography of the Great Masthe power-we are sure there is the disposition, inThis learned and elaborate report, which was sub-ter-has survived him but a brief space. He died at the Treasury department, to forego these duties al-mitted by the Secretary of the Treasury to the late Edinburgh on the 17th of January, rather unexpect together, in consideration of the objects of this un-Congress, is thus spoken of in a letter we have seen, edly, though for several months past his health had dertaking. been very delicate. by a most competent judge, Capt. Beaufort, Hydrographer to the British Admiralty, F. R. S., &c. Union." [From the New-York American of Thursday.] CAPT. BACK, and DR. KING, with their attendants, "I have been lately much delighted with Profesleft this city yesterday for Montreal. They were sor Hassler's Report on Weights and Measures. It accompanied to the Boat by many friends and well-is a very able paper, and quite as important to the wishers, and as she pushed off, the assembled multi. philosophers of this country as to those of your great tude greeted the enterprize of these gallant men with three cheers, which were cordially returned by Capt. Back and his party. The following note from the Hudson River Steamboat Association is creditable to their liberality: Mr. Hassler is now, as our readers have been al We gave some weeks ago, a brief notice of the further and more correct information. One hundred New York Fur Company: we are enabled now to give and ten men proceeded by the Lakes Ontario, Erie, and Huron; 50 of whom are to remain at Michili. mackinac on the last mentioned lake. The remaining 60 to proceed by Lake Michigan to Green Bay -up the Fox and Wisconsin rivers to Prairie des ready informed, employed in completing the coast Chiens on the Mississippi-up that river to the Falle survey, commenced by him some sixteen or seven- Traverse de Sioux to little Missouri-up that River of St. Anthony-from thence, across the Prairies, teen years ago, and most improvidently and unwisely to the Rocky Mountains. Some will be employed arrested by the Government in mid career. It is mat-along the banks of the Missouri at the Company's Trading Establishments, and a party will go up as the Mundan, Crawfoot, Piegons, Blood Indians and far as the Rocky Mountains. They will pass through the Rees Nations.-[Montreal Herald.] New York, April 3d, 1833. CAPT. BACK-Sir:-Understanding that you pro-ter of just congratulation, that under wiser councils, pose leaving New York for the North this evening, I this distinguished and practical savant has been autake the liberty in behalf of the Directors ofthe Hud-thorized to resume his labors. son River Steamboat Association, to offer for yourself and suite, the use of the steamboat Ohio from New York to Albany. Yery respectfully, yours, M. VAN BUREN, Secretary. N. B. The Ohio leaves the wharf foot of Court. landt street, at 5 o'clock, P. M. DESTRUCTION OF THE U. S. TREASURY BY FIRE.The Washington Globe of yesterday morning furnishes this account of the occurrence. "We regret to announce the total destruction, by fire, of the Treasury building; but we are happy to add, that, as far as can now be ascertained, all the public accounts and vouchers relating to the receipt and disbursement of the public moneys have been saved. THE BIRDS OF AMERICA.-Mr. Audubon, whose arrival here we announced a few days ago, yesterday exhibited to a number of our citizens at the President's rooms in Columbia College, a series of the original drawings for his great work, and the plates of the only volume yet completed. The gratification was universal. Each plate and drawing presented a picture of itself, by showing the bird in some characteristic attitude or action, and in the midst of scenery habitual to it. Iceland.-Hans Finsten, a native of this remote quarter of Europe, has lately published an interest ing pamphlet on the diminution of the population of Iceland, owing to unfavorable years. He observes, that, previously to the fourteenth century, the num ber of inhabitants was computed at 120,000, but that, at present it does not exceed 54,000. Hopes of a renewed increase are derived from the declining vio which have acted very prejudicially, both on the lence of volcanic eruptions, the lava and ashes of health of individuals and animals, as well as from the extension of horticulture and fisheries, the latter of which are no longer prosecuted in fragile barks, but in stout seaworthy vessels. This magnificent work of Mr. Audubon, unequalled by any other, possibly, in existence on any subject, is It is understood that the fire was discovered at about cerned, Mr. A. having finished them all. But it will the inferiority of French attempts, endeavor to accomplete, so far as the original drawings are con- the power of the English and German Reviews, and We have heard Frenchmen, when acknowledging half past 2 o'clock on Sunday morning, by a person accidentally passing. The flame was first seen issu. require several years for the execution of the engrav-count for it by averring that the Anonymous was imsuing from the windows of the room on the upper ings from these drawings. One volume,containing 100 possible in France, that whatever might be the floor adjoining the centre projection, on the north plates, of the largest folio size, and where each bird, front. The alarm was immediately given: and by great exertions on the part of the Secretary and other even to the wild turkey, is represented in his natural ablic officers, as well as on the part of the citizens proportions, is now finished. Three more are to fol11- who seemed to take an equal interest in low. The subscription price for the whole is $800, motives of secresy, if an article became talked of, such was the French love of glory, that the author must avow himself. The avowal of Ego must be the annihilation of Nos; the imposing plural becomes henceforth a farce; the Secret Tribunal, an idea of rard a sword of gold, to bear this inscription: awful effect, is instantly scattered by such declara-[[between the rain-bearing clouds above, and the||to which my anxieties have been directed, I ought to tions; and a party of Reviewers, openly and indivi- parched earth below, but this had not been the lay the plumb-line, and strenuously endeavor to eor. dually known, resemble a cave of bats, with light effect;" and, therefore, in this official paper, the rect what is wrong; still recollecting that there may suddenly let in upon them by some catastrophe of Emperor directs "a mitigation of punishment for be faults which have not occurred to me in my menature.-[London Spectator.] convicted persons in the province of Pekin (except ditations. SWORD OF HONOR.-We find it stated in the Cour-cused persons should be brought to a speedy and fair pardon my ignorance and stupidity; and to grant mo Prostrate I beg Imperial Heaven, Hwang Teen, te in the ease of great crimes)," and orders that "acrier des Etats Unis that subscriptions of 25 centimes, trial;" that "imprisoned witnesses should be at once self-renovation; for myriads of innocent people are about five cents each, are opened in all the Mayoral-confronted with the opposite parties, or be set at involved by me, a single man. My sins are so nuties in France, in order to purchase for Marshal Ge- liberty on bail ;" and that "all small offences be im- merous, it is difficult to escape from them. Summer is "Frenchmen to the Marshal commanding in chief mediately disposed of and the parties liberated." past, and autumn arrived; to wait longer will really be the army of the North-capture of the Citadel of and fructifying showers. Let the Criminal Board ven, to hasten and confer gracious deliverance,—a Thus (he adds) we may hope for timely, genial. impossible. Knocking head, I pray, Imperial HeaAntwerp." On the other side of the blade will be immediately obey these commands. Respect this." speedy and divinely beneficial rain; to save the peothis legend-"Glory and Humanity." This last contrivance was as ineffectual as all that ple's lives; and in some degree redeem my iniqui. "The Magpie. Wherever it be, wild or tame, this had preceded it; the drought was severe; and con- ties. Oh-Alas! Imperial heaven, observe these is the monkey of birds, full of mischief and mimicry.tinued still for many weeks. The Emperor, Kings things!—Alas! Oh Imperial Heaven, be gracious to A gentleman told Mr. Howit, that one he kept, hav- and Princes "fasted and prayed once in seven days, them. I am inexpressibly grieved, alarmed, and ing stolen various articles, was watched by him nar- before altars dedicated to the gods of heaven, the frightened. Reverently this memorial is presented." rowly; and was at length seen by him busy in the gods of earth, of the year, of the land, of the grain, garden gathering pebbles, and with much solemnity and finally to imperial heaven itself, and also to im- great value. It is worth more than scores of quar. This is a most singular production. It is too of and a studied air, dropping them into a hole about perial earth, with all the saints." His Majesty, more tos and folios ef the vain speculations which have eighteen inches deep, made to receive a line-post.-over, sent a King to Tae Shan," the great mountain," been published ooncerning China. Even allowing After dropping each stone, it cried 'carack" triumph-in Shangtung province, with Tibetian incense match- that much of the coloring has been given to it for ef antly, and set off for another. Making himself surees, to pray for rain in the Emperor's stead. But all fect merely (which we are slow to admit,) still it exthat he had found the objects of his search, the gen-was of no avail, aud at last on the 25th of July, the hibits an exalted personage, in a most interesing and tleman went to the place, and found in the hole a poor Emperor offered up the following affecting point of view. It is withal a very serious toad, which the magpie was stoning for his amusedocument; as it is conducts us to the anti-chambers ment.-[Notes ofa Naturalist.] of the "celestial court," and there shows us the "mi||nister of heaven," scorched with grief, pouring over his atrocious sins, and with trembling anxiety, recounting the errors of his public and private life; our sympathy is excited, and we, instinctively, re-echo his lamentation, Woo hoo! Oh, Alas! Competition against Ireland.-A new tuberous root (the newspapers tell us) has been successfully introduced into this country from Chili: it is called the Oxalis creneta, (which we hope to see translated into Creneto, v. Potato,) bears a yellow flower is ornamental to the garden, and as an edible, superior to the staple food of the Irish pigs and pisintry. PRAYER FOR RAIN, written by his Imperial Majesty 66 Kneeling, a memorial is hereby presented, to cause affairs to be heard. ers have been obtained. ness. "Oh, Alas! Imperial Heaven, were not the world afflicted by extraordinary changes, I would not dare It exhibits darkness and weakness peculiar to the to present extraordinary services. But this year the human mind, while unblessed by the revealed Word The Corn Crake. This interesting bird, which drought is most unusual. Summer is past, and no and by the Spirit of the only living and true God. It rain has fallen. Not only do agriculture and human shows also, very distinctly, if we mistake not, the visits the north of England and Scotland in summer, beings feel the dire calamity; but also beasts and symptoms of an oppressed and declining empire.and keeps up in the meadows its cry of crake, crake, We predict nothing. We should rejoice to see is well known, but is not easily seen. It runs with insects, herbs and trees, almost cease to live. great radidity, and is loth to take wing. When found, and am responsible for keeping the world in order, ishing in all the glory, peace, tranquillity, and I, the minister of Heaven, am placed over mankind, "the great pure dynasty" long stand strong, flour. it has the instinct, in common with some other ani- and tranquilizing the people. Although it is now prosperity which it now proudly and falsely arro. mals, and especially insects, to feign death. A gen-impossible for me to sleep or eat with composure; gates to itself. The welfare of the Chinese em. tleman had one brought to him by his dog. It was dead, to all appearance. As it lay on the ground, he although I am scorched with grief, and tremble with pire is the dearest object to our hearts on earth. turned it over with his foot-he was convinced it anxiety; still, after all, no genial and copious show. But our own minds, in accordance, we believe, with the minds of millions, forbode an approaching was dead. Standing by, however, for some time, in silence, he suddenly saw it open an eye. He then fices, on the altars of the gods of the land and the ses; and we will not, knowingly, conceal the truth. "Some time ago, I fasted, and offered rich sacri-change. We cannot deny the evidence of our sentook it up its head fell-its legs hung loose-it ap-grain; and had to be thankful for gathering clouds Causes are operating on this nation,—would they peared again totally dead. He then put it in his pocket, and before very long, he felt it all alive, and and slight showers; but not enough to cause glad- did not exist which must produce tremendous etfects. The state groans; and already convulsions struggling to escape. He took it out, it was as lifeless as before. He then laid it again upon the ground benevolence and love. The sole cause is the daily ernment be once broken asuuder, and this immense "Looking up, I consider that Heaven's heart is begin to be felt. And oh, should the bands of Govand retired to some distance; in about five minutes, deep atrocity of my sins; but little sincerity and lit mass of population-an occan of human beings-be it warily raised its head, looked around, and decamp-tle devotion. Hence I have been unable to move be thrown into confusion, the scene would be awful. ed at full speed.-[Notes of a Naturalist.] Heaven's heart, and bring down abundant blessings. We gladly turn from the contemplation of such a Stag's Horns.-There is a curious fact, not gene- "Having respectfully searched the records, I find, picture. rally known, which is, that at one period the horns of that, in the twenty-fourth year of Keenlung, my im. The Emperor's auxieties, occasioned by the long stags grew into a much greater number of ramifica.perial grandfather, the high, honorable and pure em- continuance of the drought, are now terminated. By food, and from the animal having more repose, be peror reverently performed a great snow service.' a paper in the Gazette, dated at Peking, July 29th, fore population became so dense. In some individu. I feel impelled by ten thousand considerations, to it is stated, that after the Emperor had fasted, and als, these multiplied to an extraordinary extent.-look up and imitate the usage, and with trembling offered the prayer, given above, before the altar deThere is one in the Museum of Hesse Cassel with anxiety, rashly assail heaven, examine myself, and dicated to heaven, at about 8 o'clock on the same twenty-eight antlers. Baron Cuvier, mentions one consider my errors; looking up and hoping that I evening, thunder, lightning, and rain, were interwith sixty-six-thirty-three on each horn.-[White's | may obtain pardon. I ask myself,--whether in sa- mingled; the rain falling in sweet and copious Natural History of Selborne, by Browne.] crificial services I have been disrespectful? Whe-showers. The next day, a report came in from the Cemetry in London.-The General Cemetery Joint ther or not pride and prodigality have had a place in Shunteenfoo* magistrate that two inches had fallen: Stock company of London have completed a Cemete-my heart, springing up there unobserved? Whether, and on successive days, near the Imperial domain, a ry, resembling in its plan that of Perel e Chaise in Paris. from the length of time, I have become remiss in at- quantity fell equal to four inches. For this manifestThe ground selected for their purpose is a lot of sixty tending to the affairs of government; and have been ation of heavenly compassion, the Emperor, in an acres at Kendall Green, forty of which are enclosed and strenuous effort, which I ought? Whether tense gratitude; and the 2d of August is appointed unable to attend to them with that serious diligence, order published, expresses his devotion and inby a wall, and ornamented with trees and shrubbery; have uttered irreverent words and have deserved re Artists have been employed in preparing plans and as a day of thanksgiving. Six kings are directed to models for the decoration of the grounds, and a pre-tained in conferring rewards or inflicting punish- earth, (3) to the gods of the land and grain, (4) to the prehension? Whether perfect equity has been at- repair to the altar dedicated (1) to heaven, (2) to mium of 1007. has been awarded for the design of a ments? Whether in raising mausoleums and laying gods of heaven, (5) to the gods of the earth, and (6) magnificent chapel.; Arrangements are made for the conveyance of bodies and funeral processions by out gardens, I have distressed the people and wasted to the gods of the revolving year. The precise idea, which his Imperial Majesty atwater carriage to the spot. The Bishop of London Property? Whether in the appointment of officers at first refused to consecrate it, in consequence of have failed to obtain fit persons, and thereby the acts taches to the words "imperial heaven," we will not the want of a chapel where the service might be of government have been petty and vexatious to the stay here to determine. It is manifest, however, read when requisite; but subsequently withdrew his people? Whether punishments have been unjustly in that such a variety of objects of adoration cannot be flicted or not? Whether the oppressed have found no acceptable to HIM who has declared: "Thou shalt objection, a temporary chapel having been erected. means of appeal? Whether in persecuting hetero have no other gods before me." Jehovah is not a man [From the New-York Observer.] » dox sects, the innocent have not been involved? that he should lie; he will not give his glory to PRAYER OF THE EMPEROR OF CHINA FOR RAIN. Whether or not the magistrates have insulted the another. The conduct of the Emperor in praying, On the 31st of May last, an official paper was people, and refused to listen to their affairs? Whe- fasting, and self examination, ought to reprove the published by the Emperor of China, lamenting the ther in the successive military operations on the christian. But we shall do exceedingly wrong, if want of rain. He had previously directed sacrifices western frontiers, there may have been the horrors we attempt to excuse such abominable idolatry, and to be made to the gods, and devoutly knocked his of human slaughter, for the sake of imperial rewards? to throw the mantle of charity over that which God head on the ground," but without effect. His Whether the largesses bestowed on the afflicted abhors. scorching anxiety had continued night and day, and southern provinces were properly applied; or the It is a very remarkable circumstance, connected hour after hour, he looked earnestly for rain; but people were left to die in the ditches? Whether the with the drought, that none of the priests of Taou none had fallen," He "had turned his thoughts in efforts to exterminate or pacify the rebellious moun- and Budha were ordered to pray as they usually have upon himself, and his government," but had found taineers of Hoonan and Canton, were properly con-been heretofore on similar occasions. This single nothing amiss. "His own conduct," he says rather ducted; or whether they led to the inhabitants being fact shows in how low estimation they are held by proudly, "ought to have induced a sweet harmony ||trampled on as mire or ashes? To all these topics, the Emperor. I NEW-YORK AMERICAN. MARCH 30, APRIL 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-1833. LITERARY NOTICES. faculty visits us with remorse, after offences are ac-[]perienced by its victims. Napoleon in exile, said, tually committed, instead of arresting our hands by Let us live upon the past :' but he found this impos. an irresistible veto before them, so as to save us from sible; his predominating desires originated in Ambi. the perpetration altogether. The problem is solved tion and Self-esteem; and the past did not stimulate by the principle, that happiness consists in the activ- these active powers, or maintain them in constant CONVERSATIONS ON RELIGION WITH LORD BYRON ity of our faculties, and that the arrangement of pun-activity. In like manner, no musician, artist, poet, AND OTHERS, BY James Kennedy, M. D. of His Bri-ishment after the offence is far more conducive to or philosopher, would reckon himself happy, how. tannic Majesty's Medical Staff.-Philadelphia: Ca. activity than the opposite. For example; if we ever extensive his attainments, if informed, Now you rey & Lea. No one can look into these pages with desired to enjoy the highest gratification of Locali- must stop, and live upon the past; and the reason is ty, Form, Coloring, Ideality, and Wonder, in explor- still the same. New ideas, and new emotions, best out feeling great respect for the pious and learned ing a new country, replete with the most exquisite excite and maintain in activity the faculties of the physician to whom we are indebted for them. Dr.beauties of scenery and most captivating natural pro- mind, and activity is essential to enjoyment. If Kennedy, at the time of the conversations which form ductions, and if we found among these, precipices these views be correct, the consequences of imbuing the subject of his book, was stationed in Cephalonia which endangered life when we advanced so near as been unquestionably beneficial. The limits of our that gratified Ideality in the highest degree, but the mind with intuitive knowledge, would not have with his corps-and there was accidentally thrown to fall over them, and neglected the law of gravita-acquirements would have been reached; our first into the society of Lord Byron. The good faith, sim-tion, whether would it be most bountiful for Provi-step would have been our last: every object would plicity and earnestness of purpose displayed in the dence to send an invisible attendant with us, who, have become old and familiar; Hope would have Conversations held with that eminent individual, whenever we were about to approach the brink, had no object of expectation; Cautiousness no obshould interpose a barrier, and fairly cut short our ject of fear; Wonder no gratification in novelty; momust prepossess all readers in the author's favor-advance, without requiring us to bestow one thought notony, insipidity, and mental satiety, would appa. and we may add, we think that they cannot be read||upon the subject, and without our knowing when rently have been the lot of man. without leaving the impression that Lord Byron felt to expect it and when not,-or to leave all open, As a proof and encouragement that life may be most deeply himself the desolation and hopelessness but to confer on us, as he has done, eyes fitted both lengthened and more enjoyed by a stricter ad. to see the precipice, faculties to comprehend the law of his own scepticism. of gravitation, Cautiousness to make us fear the inherence to the laws of the Creator, the fact stated, Dr. Kennedy reasons well-was, for a man of a fringement of it, and then to leave us to enjoy the in our next extract, is important. It suggests morc1.borious profession, manifestly unusually versed in scene in perfect safety if we used these powers, but over a question of interest to all who insure their theological studies-and always presents his arguto fall over and suffer pain by bruises and death if lives. Whether the tables now in use for calculating we neglected to exercise them? It is obvious that ments rather with a view to truth than to victory. the latter arrangement would give far more scope to We are surprised, we confess, at hearing a British our various powers; and if active faculties are the military surgeon quoting in one of the Ionian islands, sources of pleasure, as will be shown in the next to a British peer, the works of Professor Stuart, of section, then it would contribute more to our enjoy. About seventy years ago, tables of the average the Theological Seminary in Andover. It will grieve ishing after the fact, is analagous in the moral world, use of the Life Insurance Companies; and from them ment than the other. Now, Conscientiousness pun- duration of life, in England, were compiled for the all well-disposed minds to hear that Dr. Kennedy to this arrangement, in the physical. If Intellect, it appears, that the average of life was then twenty ured in 1827, of yellow fever, in the island of Ja. Benevolence, Veneration, and Conscientiousness, do eight years; that is, 1000 persons being born, and maica—in the midst of an assiduous discharge of his their parts, they will give distinct intimations of dis- the years which each of them lived being added professional duties among the suffering troops. The Cautiousness will give intimations of danger at sight each. By recent tables, it appears that the average approbation before commission of the offence, just as together, and divided by 1000, gave twenty eight to ournal of his conversations was not completed when of the cliff; but if these are disregarded, and we fall is now thirty two years to each; that is to say, by he died, and is now given to the world in its unfin-over the moral precipice, remorse follows as the superior morality, cleanliness, knowledge, and gen. ished state by his widow. It is altogether a book punishment, just as pain is the chastisement for tumb-eral obedience to the Creator's institutions, fewer inoalculated, we think, to do good-for many will be stitutions is to permit and encourage the most vigor-age, than did seventy years ago. Some persons have ling over the physical brink. The object of both individuals now perish in infancy, youth, and middle induced, from its connection with Byron, to read it,ous and unrestrained exercise of our faculties, in ac- said, that the difference arises from error in compil. who would not possibly be tempted to look a second cordance with the physical, moral, and intellectual ing the old tables, and that the superior habits of the time at such discussions as it presents, if put forth laws of nature, and to punish us only when we trans people are not the cause. It is probable, however, gress these limits. that there may be a portion of truth in both views.There may be some errors in the old table, but it is quite natural that increasing knowledge and stricter obedience to the organic laws, should diminish the number of permature deaths. If this idea be correct, the average duration of life should go on increasing and our successors, two centuries hence, may probably attain to an average of forty years, and then ascribe to errors in our tables our low average of thirty two. in a more formal manner. - THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN CONSIDERED IN RELATION TO EXTERNAL OBJECTS, by GEO. COMBE. Boston: Allen & Ticknor.-To all who have taken any interest in Phrenology, the name of this author is familiar by his Essays on this science. As a writer, his style is clear and easy-as a reasoner, he is lucid and fair; and his object in the work before us all must approve; for it is "to lessen misery and to increase happiness," by pointing out the relation of man to the external world, by explain. ing the causes of physical organic and intellectual being, and by showing with Bishop Butler that "in the present state, all which we enjoy, and a great part of what we suffer, is put in our power-for pleasure and pain are the consequence of our actions"— The next extract we select is to prove how wisely man was endowed with capacity for acquiring know. ledge, rather than with intuitive knowledge. the risk on life be ancient or recent ?—since it is manifest that, as the average duration of life in. creases, the premium of insuring it should diminish. of America-a Romancer. Supposing the human faculties to have received their present constitution, two arrangements may be fancied as instituted for the gratification of these powers. 1st. Infusing into them at birth intuitive knowledge of every object which they are fitted ever capacities for gaining knowledge by exercise and to comprehend; or, 2dly. Constituting them only as DR. LARDNER'S CABINET CYCLOPEDIA. Vol. 21.application, and surrounding them with objects bear- Philadelphia: Carey, Lea & Blanchard.-This voing such relations towards them, that, when observed lume is the fourth of the History of Spain and Porand attended to, they shall afford them high gratifi-tugal, and in it, the view commenced in the preceding cation; and, when unobserved and neglected, they shall occasion them uneasiness and pain; and the volume, of the religions, civil, and political state of question occurs, which mode would be most con- the peninsula, during the domination of the Mohamducive to enjoyment? The general opinion will be medans, is included, and a full view follows of the in favor of the first; but the second appears to me Christian rule in the same particulars. The governto be preferable. If the first meal we had eaten had to induce men to live in harmony with the laws of for ever prevented the recurrence of hunger, it is ment, administration, laws, arts, sciences, literature, their moral and intellectual constitution. The phrc-obvious that all the pleasures of a healthy appetite and the church, are all treated of with accurate brevi. nological views of the author are brought forward would have been then at an end; so that this appa-ty; and Robertson is shewn to be, in his Charles V., not to make converts, but to enforce general truths; rent bounty would have greatly abridged our enjoy. |—as he was shewn still more signally in his history and in this shape they become important auxilaries.tuted as at present, intuitive knowledge had been ment. In like manner, if, our faculties being constiIn the extracts that follow we do not aim at pre-communicated to us, so that, when an hour old, we FRANCIS THE FIRST, a Tragedy, with other poetical senting any thing like an analysis of the work, but should have been thoroughly acquainted with every pieces, by Miss FANNY KEMBLE; together with an rather by some striking passages to stimulate our object, quality, and relation that we could ever comreaders to the perusal of the book itself. prehend, all provision for the sustained activity of original memoir, and a full length portrait of the au. many of our faculties weuld have been done away thor: New York, Peabody & Co.-This, according with. When wealth is acquired, the miser's plea- to the publishers' notice, is the sixth American edi. sure in it is diminished. He grasps after more with tion of this tragedy-so much have the talents of the of conscience, and of the reason why it is the pro-doing so; but he obeys the instinct of his nature.-/actress added interest to the writings of the author. increasing avidity. He is supposed irrrational in vinoe of that faculty to punisk, and not to prevent, What he possesses, no longer satisfies Acquisitive. Of the merit of this composition-written at sixteen, transgression: ness; it is like food in the stomach, which gave before the future Juliet, or Julia, or Bianca had a pleasure in eating, and would give pain were it with- thought of the stage as a profession-we have before drawn, but which, when there, is attended with little positive sensation. The Miser's pleasure arises spoken as superior to any thing we remember in the from the active state of Acquisitiveness, and only history of the early productions of genius. The the pursuit and obtaining of new treasures can main- lighter pieces annexed to it are graceful and pretty. tain this state. The same law is exemplified in the The memoir-which the publisher warns us is for. case of Love of Approbation. The gratification which it affords depends on its active state, and bidden fruit to journalists, a copy-right securing to hence the necessity for new incense, and higher him the monopoly-would we think be secure without mounting in the scale of ambition is constantly ex-the interdict; for it strikes us as hyperbolical rant Take for example the view given in the annexed passage of the necessity of the operation and power Conscientiousness exists, and it is necessary to prove that all the divine institutions are founded in justice, to afford it full satisfaction. This is a point which many regard as involved in much obscurity: I shall endeavor in this Essay to lift the veil, for to me justice appears to flow through every divine insti. tution. One difficulty, in regard to Conscientiousness, long appeared inexplicable; it was, how to recon. cile with Benevolence the institution by which this |