2 SEPTEMBER 1871, Page 22

Astronomy SimplUied for General Reading. By J. A. S. Rollvvyn.

(Tegg.)—We do not exactly understand what the author means when he hopes that the " distinctiveness" of this volume will form the best justification for its appearance. We have an impression of having seen more than one of the same kind ; nevertheless, it is not unwelcome. The subject is one of interest absolutely inexhaustible, and Mr. Rollwyn treats it with considerable ability. He is never open to objection except when he attempts to be satirical or humorous. What on earth does he mean, for instance, when in a passage of very ponderous badinage about the incorrectness of the popular phrases sunrise, sunset, be speaks of the Quakers as a "hierarchical body " ? The volume is furnished with some excellent illustrations.