REVIEWS—COURSE OF PRACTICAL CHEMISTRY. 299 
the vortex is advancing in a line nearly straight, at a rate of progres- 
sion which is very slow compared with the velocity of rotation.” 
Thus it appears that this theory, set forth as original in 1835, was 
explicitly enunciated in 1730 by Richard Budgen; and we might 
almost say demonstrated by an appeal to facts. We are not now 
talking of its developement in later years, or of that vast accumula- 
tion of details due to the industry and research of later observers. 
We may further remark, that in this sketch no mention is made of 
any kind of philosophical instruments. It would have signally added 
to the interest and value of the observations, had there been careful 
records of the thermometer and barometer; but these instruments, 
though long before invented, were little known and used by any but 
the learned, and were rude im their construction and equipments. Itis 
only m the present age that the skill of the artist has been enlisted 
im the service of the philosopher, and theory and practice made to go 
hand in hand. Nevertheless, as was observed in the outset, these rude 
and imperfect attempts are not unworthy of notice. No modern phil- 
osopher will be inclined to say “ Pereant isti qui ante nos nostra dixe- 
runt,” but will rather award a just meed of praise to those obscure 
seekers after knowledge, who, with means and appliances so scanty, 
were yet enabled to accomplish so much. 
REVIEWS AND NOTICES OF BOOKS. 
Course of Practical Chemistry, as adopted at University College, 
Toronto. By Henry Croft, F.C.S.; Professor of Chemistry, Uni- 
versity College. Toronto: Maclear & Co., 1860. 
Perhaps in no one department of science, is so much active interest 
displayed at present, as in that of Chemistry. This is due, without 
doubt, to the important bearings of Chemical Science on many of the 
leading questions of the day. In Agriculture, in Technology— 
throughout the wide field which that department properly embraces 
—in Medicine, Pharmacy, and Medical Jurisprudence, its practical 
applications are prominent and manifold ; whilst, to its more indirect 
influence and reactions, many of its sister sciences owe, in great part, 
the rapidity of their modern progress. The great advance made in 
these latter times by Chemistry itself, has been essentially brought 
