defect there are in the present volume many specimens of contemporary
literature. Few of them, however, are first-rate. The most original
portion consists of the Astronomical Occurrences, which extend to 150
pages.

* * * * *


POPULAR CHEMISTRY.

Such is the title of the fifth part or portion of _Knowledge for the
People: or, the Plain Why and Because:_ containing Attraction or
Affinity--Crystallization--Heat--Electricity--Light and
Flame--Combustion--Charcoal--Gunpowder and Volcanic Fire. We quote a few
articles from most of the heads:--

Why is the science of chemistry so named?

Because of its origin from the Arabic, in which language it signifies
"the knowledge of the composition of bodies."

The following definitions of chemistry have been given by some of our
best writers:--

"Chemistry is the study of the effects of heat and mixture, with the
view of discovering their general and subordinate laws, and of improving
the useful arts."--Dr. Black.

"Chemistry is that science which examines the constituent parts of
bodies, with reference to their nature, proportions, and method of