258 JVew PubUcatiom. [April, 



which has been made this last half century. It is true, that it is 

 a contribution rather to the literature than to the science of agri- 

 culture; and this is what was especially wanted at the present 

 time. This work is particularly calculated to improve the taste 

 and morals, and to give the right turn to the sentiments of its 

 readers. It may be, that Mr. Coleman is too much of a senti- 

 mentalist, too much inclined to moralize incidents and occasions; 

 nevertheless, this feature neither mars the book nor dishonors the 

 occasion. JNIr, Coleman's humanity and kindness is very conspi- 

 cuously brought out on many occasions, and as we know that it is 

 no pretence, but an innate ingredient in the spirit, its utterance 

 no one will suppose to proceed from a feigned sensibility. Again, 

 the Commissioner in treating of the matters and objects which 

 came under his notice, adheres throughout to a plain common 

 sense view. He no where attempts to exhibit deep and profound 

 views, but aims to express himself so as to be understood. He 

 evidently considered that he was writing for plain and substantial 

 farmers, men of good common sense, rather than those who would 

 be ranked with philosophers. Hence, he does not dwell upon 

 theories, or use the language which passes with many for learn- 

 ing, and which would imply an extensive and familiar acquaint- 

 ance with modern science. Hence, the European Agricultme 

 is adapted to a wide circulation. Some of his subjects may be 

 treated in a too common place manner, and perhaps the author 

 might have said the same things at home and in the United States 

 as well as in England or Scotland. This criticism may apply to 

 what is said of soils, and the subjects which stand in connection 

 with this; and we might say that when the author takes up a. 

 subject for discussion his remarks which apply directly to it 

 are often few and confined to a very narrow compass. This we 

 consider one of the faults of the author. Our first quotation of 

 Mr. C.'s remarks, from the first part, illustrates this feature in the 

 work. Important things, however, are still said, and we leave 

 others to entertain their own opinions of what we have consider- 

 ed as faulty. 



