American Character. By Brander Matthews. (T. B. Crowell and Co.,
New York.)—A French critic, talking with Tolstoy, declared that the American people cared only for money, was indifferent to art and beauty, and was now setting out on a career of conquest. Professor Matthews traverses these allegations, and his defence of his countrymen is an excellent bit of work. It is energetic, but it is not wanting in candour. With the greater part of it we heartily agree. But one important matter is, we think, unduly ignored. He claims five achievements for the United States,— peace-making ; religious toleration ; vindication of the wisdom of universal manhood suffrage ; welcoming of all corners; wide diffusion of material well-being. But is it not a fact that this universal manhood suffrage has produced a political condition which is distinctly below the general standard of American character ? Are the Legislative Assemblies of Washington and of the several States equal to the British House of Commons in integrity?
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