17 MARCH 1877, Page 23

The Meg of Animals. By E. Lankester, M.D., F.A.S. (Hardwicke

and Bogne.)—The substance of the first part of this book was delivered in the form of lectures at the South Kensington Museum, where a ' splendid collection of illustrations was ready to hand. The second part contains the notes of lectures which the author intended to have given, but the authorities thought it undesirable to have any further system. atie teaching on the subject. Dr. Lankester gives a most interesting account of the relations the different animals bear to the comfort and luxury of man. We have details of processes which many will here read for the first time, and valuable hints and suggestions are scattered through the work. Although necessarily treated in a popular manner, scientific accuracy and modes of thought distinguish this work above most others of its kind. The second part of the work, indeed, might almost be an elementary introduction to the study of zoology, especially for those animals whose skins when manufactured or dressed form man's clothing. The practical value of science in economising material is strikingly shown in the lecture on "Waste." It is almost painful to reflect what vast quantities of material have been and are being wasted through man's want of knowledge, and although much that was for- merly wasted is now utilised, students have a vast field for experiment and research how to use to advantage the refuse of many manufactures.