The Science of Business. By Roderick H. Smith. (G. P.
Putnam's Sons, New York and London.)—Mr. Smith begins with two scientific chapters on the " Direction of Motion " and the " Rhythm of Motion." Then come commercial facts and statistics, which are made out to be particular phenomena of the general laws of motion. And then, in conclusion, the author—having proved that commercial movements are in the line of least resistance ; that they are rhythmic ; that these rhythms complete themselves in approximately equal times— launches on a wind of prophecy, and foretells the future for six or seven years to come. Writing in July last year, he commits himself to the prediction that in the course of the year there would be eleven thousand failures. The year 1886 is to be one of continued depression. Things will mend in 1887, and reach their height of prosperity in 1889. " After the year 1891, look out for breakers ahead." This periodicity of "great business booms " and times of panic is familiar enough, but we do not remember to have seen it before in the scientific dress of the "rhythm of motion."
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