The little books in the following list, however various in
their subject matter, are uniform in their aim ; which is to impart in- struction. We will therefore consider them together.
1. An Introduction to Phrenology. By ROBERT MACNISII. 2. Progressive Exercises in English Grammar. By G. R. PARKER, A. M.
3. A Catechism of Elocution. By WILLIAM ROBERTS. 4. A Familiar Abridgment of the General Highways Act. Ry A. A. PRY, Esq., Barrister-at-Law.
I. A very able and ingenious book of the kind. Its form is that of question and answer, which in the opening passages is turned to account in order to defend phrenology ; the questioner propos- ing objections, (perhaps not always of the strongest,) which the respondent of course overturns. The execution of the catechism is remarkably clear : whatever may be thought of the views, it is impossible not to understand them. The position is also occa- sionally enlivened by some of Mr. MAcansn's peculiarities of illustration, which have all the effect of humour, for whatever the author may intend them.
2. We had occasion to speak favourably of the arrangement and execution of the First Part of Mr. PARKER'S book, which related to the rules of Syntax, although we considered Iris grammar formed too much upon the genius of the Latin language. The Second Part, relating to Construction, or, to speak popularly, to Composition, is free from that defect, whilst it possesses all the merits which distinguished thc'first series of Exercises.
3. Mr. ROBERTS'S Catechism of Elocution is a workmanlike affair ; giving, clearly enough, an account of the various re- ceived inflections of the voice, and laying down rules for apply- ing them. But how any one can fancy that speaking is to be taught by dumb-show, or rather dead letters, we cannot conceive.
4. By a late Act of Parliament, called the General Highways Act, all roads not being under Turnpike Trusts are directed to be managed in the manner laid down by its enactments. The law of the 5th and 6th Will. IV. has therefore an immediate interest as extensive as highways and byways ; for every one—as is but right—will be called upon to assist in paying for mending his ways ; and he may, if he pleases, interfere in their management. Mr. FRY has therefore a right to expect an audience fit and not few for his Abridgment ; which is clear, seems executed with legal acumen, and contains a very full index—a point of no slight moment in a book of reference.
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