The Perplexed Farmer. By Georges Ville. Translated by William Crookes,
F.R.S. (Longmans.)—Mr. Crookes has here translated three lectures given by M. Ville to French agri- culturists, together with the appendices, in which he summarises their contents and supplements them with facts and figures. The subject may be described as agricultural chemistry ; only H. Ville reduces the proportionate effect of chemical agents to their right figure. Sun and rain produce 75 per cent. of growth. There is a curious speculation on the possibility of utilising the via viva of sunshine now wasted. The author's remarks on this subject are described by Mr. Crookes, no mean authority in such matters, as very suggestive. "In the territory of France," says our author, "the vie viva lost in the course of a year equals the work of the human race for twelve centuries." Discover how to utilise it, and there need be no more fear of an over-populated earth. Here is an ample field for the ingenious. M. Ville has some curious fancies, as, e.g., that when France has improved her methods, we shall be dependent upon her for food. But why should not we do the same P He should not have allowed his volume to be trans- lated for our benefit.
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