1 JULY 1865, Page 19

The Quadrature of the Circle. By J. Smith, Esq. (Simpkin,

Marshall, and Co.)—The author thinks that he has squared the circle, and all the eminent mathematicians of the United Kingdom seem to think he has not. On the merits of the question we do not pretend to pronounce, but Mr. Smith commenced his mathematical studies very late in life, and his practice is, as he very naively shows in this pamphlet, to write to eminent mathematicians about his alleged discovery, and when he gets an answer pointing out his errors to write an abusive reply. He also says that all eminent mathematicians are "a class so blinded by pride and prejudice that they refuse to listen to truth when brought under their notice." Mr. Smith may be sane, but this is the language and conduct of a monomaniac.