which was held at South Kensington, and were delivered to
science teachers. We may expect, therefore, that they will not be " popular," in the ordinary use of that term, but will contain an account of the latest theories, researches, and results of the different subjects treated of. And this is the case. Without being abstruse, and adapted only for the deeply initiated, they are are admirable summaries of the pre- sent state of scientific knowledge, delivered in an accurate, but not too scientific a terminology, and full of instruction to all who have a real interest in science. Some, from the nature of the subject, are more attractive than others, notably the two lectures on "Photography," by Captain Abney ; on the " Steam-Engine," by Mr. Bramwell ; and on the "Apparatus Relating to Vegetable Physiology," by Mr. Vine.—Of
quite a different order are Lectures on Popular and Scientific Subjects.
By the Earl of Caithness, F.R.S. (Triibner and Co.) They are intended for those whose scientific knowledge is limited, and who require mental pabulum highly spiced with anecdotes, quips, &c. We are afraid we should have been bored by the lecture on coal, with its ponderous statistics ; and though that on the steam-engine is endurable, the fol- lowing would have given us a shudder. The moment we let steam out of his case, the case is all up with him." Did the noble Earl seriously intend this for a pun ?
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