It would appear, therefore, as Cuvier observes, that

"It is by means of the pulsations of wings on the air that the propinquity of solid bodies is perceived, by the manner in which the air reacts upon their surface." It is however almost impossible to conceive that the structure of the wings should be so delicately formed, as to serve as feelers to the animal in guiding its flight in the dark. Yet so it is.

The female bat shews great affection for her young, of which she brings forth one or two at a birth. Mr. Bell observes that

"she carries it with great tenderness and care, carrying it about with her, and holding it enshrouded in her ample cloak, which preserves it from all intrusion."

M. St. Hilaire states, that while the female is suckling, the male places himself in front of the mother, so that the young one may be protected and warmed by both the parents at the same time.

We are glad to find that Mr. Bell has thrown some new light on the habits of the Great Bat (Vespertilio Altivolans) for we like to adopt the synonymes of our favourite Mr. White of Selborne, and we think that his is, in this instance, more appropriate than any other. Mr. Bell's information is chiefly derived from some very curious and interesting observations made by Mr. George Daniell, and recorded in the proceedings of the Zoological Society for 1834, and which are quoted in the number of the work before us, and to which we must refer the reader.

We will now mention a few observations which we had an opportunity of making a short time ago on the habits of the bat in question. A pair of starlings had hatched their eggs in the hollow of one of the old lime trees in Hampton Court Gardens, and we had been amused by watching the indefatigable activity with which they procured and brought food to their young. The entrance to the hollow of the tree was through a hole on the side of it, about eight feet from the ground, and was sufficiently large for a boy of eight or nine years of age to put his hand through it. In this snug retreat we heard the young starlings chirp with gratitude as they received their food from their anxious parents,

until one evening, before they had acquired strength enough to quit their nest, a flight of about thirty bats, of the species we have been referring to, came and took possession of the hollow tree, and the starlings were silenced for ever.

Whether the bats had been driven from some other retreat, or whether they came to feed on the young starlings, we know not, although we suspect that the latter was the case, as we found a young bird nearly devoured, under the hole, a few days after the event we have mentioned. The bats arrived about the 16th of last month (June) and have kept possession of the tree ever since, although we have driven them out on three several occasions, and kept some of them by us for two or three days, and then returned them to the hole. When they have been disturbed, they have have uttered a shrill cry, and would then run to the hole with considerable activity, and retreat with quickness when they have found themselves to be observed. On withdrawing to a little distance, the bats would follow each other from the tree, flying away in different directions, exhibiting, as they did so, their reddish brown backs, and their long black wings. By the next morning they had all returned, and they may now be heard (July 10) squeaking in the tree in the day time, and seen commencing their nocturnal flight about half past eight in the evening. As we now know that these bats remain with us all through the year, and do not migrate (for we have found them winter after winter in old trees), as Mr. White appears to think they do, it becomes an interesting subject of enquiry at what period they hibernate, and the probable cause of their flocking in so large a number to a district where so few of them had been previously seen. We hope that some observant Naturalist will throw further light on the history of these gregarious animals.

We have already stated that Mr. White calls the bat in question Altivolans from its high and rapid flight, and we think that this specific name is to be preferred to that of Noctula. We have seen this bat on a calm and fine summer's evening, hawking about high in the air, making its gyrations with equal rapidity and elegance.

Mr. Bell has given also a very amusing and interesting account of the common bat or flitter-mouse, or, as it is still called in some places, the reremouse, and we can bear our testimony to the accuracy of what he states respecting the celerity and freedom with which it runs along the ground, and the facility with which it rises from it.

We must now conclude our remarks by assuring Mr. Bell that we are de

Marco Visconti; an Historical Romance. 2 vols. From the Italian of Tommaso Grossi.-Those that are pleased with tales of chivalry, and deeds of bold enterprize; with faithful waiting-maids, drunken seneschals, scowling assassins, handsome knights, and delicate heroines, will be amused with this romance, which is rather wordy and tedious at first, but increases in interest as it advances. Miss Ward's translation is easy and unaffected, and does no discredit to her taste.

Poetic Illustrations of the Bible. By Rev. John H. Simpson.-Mr. Simpson, considering that the beautiful and affecting narratives in the Scriptures are too little regarded, thought that they might be more attractive in verse, and accordingly has given us the Conspiracy of Absalom, &c. We have no objection to the Bible being made attractive in any way, and every way; but we hint to our author, that he must take care he does not fall short of the fine, simple, energetic language of the original.

Howe's Theological Treatises. (Sacred Classics.) Edited by T. Taylor.-The only fault we find with this work is, that it has not extended to two or even three volumes; for the marrow and pith of Howe is not to be confined to such small compass as one volume. Having in another article said more on the subject of this author, we shall only add that, considering the scantiness of his materials, Mr. T. Taylor's Life is very respectably performed.

Poetry of the Seventeenth Century. (Sacred Classics.) Vols. xxi. xxvi.-Mr. Cattermole has, in these volumes, shown a very intimate acquaintance with our elder Poets, and a very correct taste in judging their respective merits. We considered ourselves as tolerably conversant with the bards of the English Helicon; but he has added a name or two unknown to us before, as Ellis, Francis Taylor, and Nathaniel Easton. This shows the great

lighted with this commencement of his work on British Quadrupeds; and if it is carried on as he has begun it, we have no hesitation in saying that it will be the most entertaining, interesting, and useful illustration of the quadrupeds of this country which has yet appeared, not excepting Bewick. We say this in all sincerity, and heartily wish his work the success it promises to deserve. We ought to add, that the engravings are beautifully executed.

diligence with which the work has been compiled. The short biographical and critical notices are written with discrimimination and taste. We could, however, have assisted him with the works of many other poets who wrote on sacred subjects, which would go far to double the number of his volumes.

The Greek Harmony of the Gospels, in which the arrangement of Newcome, Townsend, and Greswell are incorporated; with Notes, chiefly designed for the use of Students at the Universities. 4to. By the Rev. R. Chapman, B.A.-This Greek Harmony is prepared with learning and diligence, and after a careful comparison of other works of a similar nature. Of its great use to students and Biblical readers of every description, no one can doubt. The Notes are well selected, and the dissertation on the Genealogy is most carefully and elaborately composed. The work is founded on the historical parallelisms; and the others, such as doctrinal, prophetical, &c. are introduced so as not to interfere with the leading character of the former. The author judiciously adopts the order of the Gospels as they now stand, for which sufficient reasons are not wanting, and the verbal coincidences between them are reasonably explained. The rules that Chemnitius and Newcome laid down to be attended to by Harmonizing, and which Mr. Townsend introduced in his preface, are given by Mr. Chapman. After the opinion of Newcome and Greswell, four Passovers, and consequently three years, are allotted to our Lord's ministry. The Greek Text is from Mill. As regards one point, which has always been of difficulty, the Harmony of the Resurrection, Mr. Chapman does not agree with his predecessors; but constructs his plan chiefly after West in his treatise. As a compendious and clear work on the Harmonies, arranged in a scholar-like manner, and not defective in any necessary information, we have no hesitation in

recommending Mr. Chapman's volume. Of the labour bestowed on it, the work itself will be the best evidence.

Greswell on the Burial Service. 2 vols. 8vo.-A work learned, instructive, and interesting. Taking a wide and comprehensive view of its subject in all its branches-drawing copious illustrations from antiquity, and tracing modern customs to their probable origin and signification:-the work is written in good taste, and in a flowing and elegant style; and we have no doubt of its taking its due place among the standard works of Theology. The author appears to be well acquainted, not only with theological literature, but also with the early writers and fathers of the Church; and his quotations from the Homilies of Chrysostom, form one of the most agreeable parts of his volume. The moral expositions and religious advice which are given in these volumes, make not the least important part of it. We hope the hints relative to the nonattendance of females of the higher classes at funerals, will produce its due effect; it is a direct avoidance of a great Christian duty, which too often arises from selfish and effeminate motives of indulgence. Mr. Greswell ought, however, to have considered that if the females do not attend the funeral of their departed relatives, like the male mourners, yet they bear a far greater share previously in their attendance on the sick and dying; and show a tenderness and firmness that the other sex cannot always boast: thus they are often incapacitated by distress, added to watchfulness, weariness, and even sickness, from attention to these last duties. This is a sound and legitimate cause of absence; but it is the only one.

Inquiry into the Origin of Alphabetic Writing.-Essay on the Egyptian Hieroglyphics, &c. By C. W. Hall, D.D.— There are several interesting discussions in this work; learnedly and argumentatively treated:-such as the Origin of Alphabetic Writing; discussions on the different kinds of Egyptian Writing; the true nature of the Phonetic powers, with which the hieroglyphics were employed; on the ideographic designation of names; on the interpretation of the Rosetta Stone; on the book of Job. That many of the author's positions will not be generally received, that many admit of much doubt and controversy, he is aware-as his motto declares, πάταξον μὲν ἀκοῦσον δέ. But there is much ingenuity, learning, and knowledge spread through the various branches of inquiry and the whole work seems

Memoirs of C. T. Schwartz. By Hugh Pearson, D.D. 2 vols.-This work, which was long demanded by the public curiosity, and by their anxiety to do justice to the memory of one of the most singularly pious and disinterested men who ever laboured in the service of his Lord, has been executed with very great diligence and success, by the learned Dean of Salisbury. All sources of inquiry have been penetrated, and a very entertaining body of facts collected. The biographer has conducted his narrative with a becoming simplicity of style; and the summary of Schwartz's character is drawn up with judgment and candour. The volumes are of the highest interest, and will be read with delight.

A View of the Creation. By C. J. Barton, Vicar of Lydd.-This work is not intended either to instruct the scholar or the natural philosopher; but is a plain and pious commentary on the facts as they are related in Scripture. They would form very useful lectures to Mr. Barton's congregation; and are composed without any errors in knowledge, defects of taste, or blemishes of style.

Redding on Wines. 2nd edition.-We reviewed the first edition of this excellent and entertaining work at full length (see vol. III. pp. 3, 124); and strongly recommended it to the attention of all the Bacchi amatores. This 2nd edition contains a very excellent preface on the subject of Port Wine, and the frauds attending it. We cordially agree with Mr. Redding in hoping soon to see the rich and delicious red Wines of the South of France appear in England in their right name, and supersede the drugged manufacture of Oporto.

The Physical and Intellectual Constitution of Man. By Edward Morgan, F.R.C.S.-We have read this work with pleasure and instruction. There is nothing in it either of fact or speculation that is new; but still the confirmation and agreement of other writers, are arranged and considered with acuteness and knowledge of the subject. The discoveries relating to geology and the fossil animal creation, are very clearly and distinctly detailed;

and the reasonings on the different races and migrations of natives in early times, their divisions, colour, languages, &c. are of great interest. Notwithstanding what the author has advanced, and not without effect, we still think that the cause of the dark colours among people in such different latitudes, is not yet satisfactorily ascertained. Mr. Morgan seems to consider black to be an accidental colour, i. e. produced by exposure to great solar heat. But why should white be a more original colour than black? Suppose that the human race was created olive-colour, and that as they advanced into hotter or colder climates they assumed a darker or lighter hue? Would not that be as fair an hypothesis as any advanced?

Observations on British Guiana. By John Hancock, M.D. - Dr. Hancock recommends Guiana, as a settlement, and shows advantages it possesses as to distance, climate, soil, &c. over any other. His book is so convincing, that when we transport ourselves, it shall be to Guiana. This little book contains much to interest and instruct, and corrects some errors of Humboldt.

The Schoolboy's Manual and Young Man's Monitor; being a collection of Scriptural Extracts.-The object of this little collection is to place before young persons a sketch of the Christian character, as a model whereon to form their own; for, the author observes, that the moral character is formed too late in life, and is the result of chance rather than system. Much useful advice is here gleaned for young persons anxious to improve themselves; and many subjects are discussed, of vital and growing importance to those just entering into life.

The Young Churchman Armed: a Catechism for the Junior Members of the Church of England. By the Rev. Theophilus Biddulph, A. M.-A useful and instructive work in small compass, giving an explanation of that form of prayer and praise comprised in our admirable Liturgy, and suited to fortify the young with sound reasons against dissent.

Fletcher's Young Divine is another of those instructive helps to the religious student, so kindly provided for the young and ignorant, to bring them, by easy and gentle steps, to the feet of Christ.

New Works announced for Publication.

A General History of the County of Monmouth; chiefly compiled, from pub. lic records, ancient documents, personal research, and the information collected with a view to publication during a period of nearly thirty years, by T. WAKEMAN, esq. Edited by C. F. ADDERLEY.

The Church and Dissent considered in their practical influence. By Mr. OSLER, author of the Life of Admiral Lord Exmouth.

Divine Inspiration. By the Rev. Dr. Henderson, being the Congregational Lecture for 1836.

Twenty Select Discourses on the grand subjects of the Gospel, chiefly designed for Villages and Families. By W. ORAM, Wallingford.

General Statistics of the British Empire. By JAMES M'QUEEN, esq. Recollections of a Woman of the

World.

The Botanist, by the Rev. Professor HENSLOW, of Cambridge. Conducted by Mr. MAUND, author of the Botanic Garden.

No. 1 of The Naturalist, illustrative of the Animal, Vegetable, and Mineral

Kingdoms; to be continued monthly. Conducted by B. MAUND, F.L.S. and W. HALL, F.G.S. assisted by several eminent scientific men.

Histoire de Port Royal. By M. DE SAINT BEUVE.

M. MICHELET is continuing his History of France.

M. SILVESTRE's Livre des Legendes. Edited by M. Le Roux DE LINCY.

The Oakleigh Shooting Code. By THOMAS OAKLEIGH, Esq.

First Part of the Book of the New Moral World, containing the Moral Science of Man. By ROBERT OWEN.

Dr. Blundell's Observations on the more important Diseases of Women. Edited by Dr. CASTLE.

Anthologie Française; or, Selections from the most eminent Poets of France. By C. THURGAR, Norwich.

Mr. JOHN WEALE, Architectural Library, will shortly publish a Supplementary part to the original edition of Stuart's Athens, containing the curious plate wanting in vol. II., with several other plates, from drawings by Sir F. L. Chantrey, &c.