NEW BOOKS.
Now and again new books of some literary value appear on the shelves of the Masterton Public Library. We note below several recent volumes which have been added, which are likely to enhance the reputation of the institute as a Library. Some dozen volumes, which have been recently added to tbe Library, are deserving of a word or two to introduce them to the public. " The English in Egypt " — Lord Milner. —Lord Milner has become so well known of late, that any work of his is sure of readers. The present volume describes the difficulties met by England when she decided to restore order in Egypt, after the defeat of Arabi, in 1882. Lord Milner, then Sir Alfred Milner, acted for some time as Under-Secrotary for Finance, and so took a large part, though his book gives no hint of this, in the work of re-organisation. When it is remembered that the consent of 6 Foreign Powers, or in some cases of fourteen, was needed before any important change could be made, and that France always, and on many occasions other Powers, did all that was possible to hinder any reforms, it will be realised that the task was no easy one. In spite of this, Lord Cromer and his assistants slowly but surely struggled on, with ever increasing success. The story of their progress, as told in this book, is one which must fill the heart of every Englishman with pride, as an example of what dogged energy and devotion to duty can accomplish against unparalleled obstacles. " Political Economy "—Prof. Walker. —This though it is one of the standard works on the subject is fairly easy reading, and gives a clear exposition of such questions as land, labour, capital, money, wages, and trades' unions. Though our views in New Zealand on these subjects may be very enlightened it is not without interest to compare with them the opinions of a leading American economist.
" The Expansion of England "—Sir R. J. Seeley.—This book relates how almost unconsciously England acquired her great Empire. Its publication coincided with the rise of the great tide of Imperial feeling which is still flowing, and as yet shows no sign of having reached its highest point. " Ecce Homo "—Sir R. J. Seeley.— A book full of interest to all thoughtful minds. It is a study of the life and sayings of Christ. Even to those who cannot agree with all the conclusions of the writer, it throws light on many difficult points, and provides more food for thought than many sermons. "The History of European Morals," " The Rise of Rationalism in Europe "— Prof. Lecky.—The former of these works traces the gradual change produced in the type of character admired, and in the standard of morals attained, by the introduction and progress of Christianity. The second shows how the advance of knowledge slowly freed mankind from the tyranny of superstition. One of the most interesting chapters describes how the belief in witches and witchcraft, which had led to the death of thousands of innocent and helpless women, gave way to a more humane and saner view. To those who prefer to take their mental food in a less solid form, we may recommend Stanley Weyman's novel, " The Long Night," for a picture of the popular views on witchcraft in the middle ages
"The Life of Lord Macaulay—Sir J. 0. Trevelyan.-—This is one of the best biographies ever written. Macaulay was perhaps the most brilliant writer and talker of his day, and the story of his life could not have been entrusted to a better hand than that of his nephew, distinguished as he is alike in politics and letters.
"The Common Sense of the Exact Sciences "—W. D. Clifford.—Prof. Clifford was a most distinguished mathematician, whose early death was a great loss to science. The common sense of such a man is unfortunately " caviare to the general," and the book will prove rather tough reading to all who have not a fair knowledge of mathematics. " Weather " —Abercrombie. —It is only during the last half-century that an attempt has been made to apply scientific methods to weather forecasting. This book reveals the secrets of the weather prophet, and in readable style shows the causes of his failure or success.
" The History of Trades Unions " — Sidney and Beatrice Webb.—Mr and Mrs Webb are the great authorities on Trades Unions, and this is the standard work on the subject.
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Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 7724, 25 March 1904, Page 6
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742NEW BOOKS. Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 7724, 25 March 1904, Page 6
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