manures are not used to the extent here that they should: be. Similarly, the 
references to potash are much under-rated for Australian use. The section on 
the use of electricity on plant stimulation could be much more fully developed, 
and so also the sections on partial sterilization of soils and the use of lime. 
The part dealing with crops gives a miscellaneous mixture dealing with the 
production of carbohydrates and oils, followed by a conclusion dealing with tea 
and cocoa, rubber and indigo, &c. The fourth section is more physiological in 
its nature, dealing chiefly with the varieties and values of various animal foods. 
-\ final section on the future development in agriculture is a useful and oppor- 
tune, contribution to the question of inereased agricultural production. 
The whole book, though somewhat disconnected, is a useful and readable 
summary of many agricultural problems. 
(5) At the present time the great need throughout the Empire is economy 
in the use of coal, and this has set in motion many investigations on power 
supply. A cheap and economical supply of electricity will give a great impetus 
io the electrochemical industries, especially the refining of metals, the manufac- 
ture of alloys, the production of fertilizers, explosives, &e. 
This book will serve as a good general account of the subject, and has 
appeared at a most opportune time. The text is illustrated with many clear 
drawings, and there is a useful bibliography. 
The subjects covered include electrolysis in aqueous solutions, and in fused 
electrolytes, the electrolytic preparation of the rarer metals, electrothermal 
processes, carborundum, carbides, nitrogen fixation by metals and metallic com- 
pounds like cyanimide, and iron and ferro-alloys. 
Throughout the Commonwealth at the present time, there are several proposals 
for the production of clectric power on an extensive scale, e.g., in New South 
Wales, Northern Tableland and coast, and in Tasmania there is already a large 
scheme in operation. This book should form the groundwork for information 
vr processes that will undoubtedly soon develop very largely in Australia. 
i 
“Tt is certain that henceforth the most powerful nation will be, not that which 
possesses the most extensive territory, nor that which has the largest population, but 
that which is most industrious, mbst skilful, best educated, most capable of utilizing 
all the means and forces that science can place at man’s disposal, and which enable 
him to triumph over matter. The greatest producer amongst nations may become 
the foremost power of the world.” Those words are taken from a report of a French 
Commission on Technical Education, which was issued in 1863. 
From Report of a French Commission on Technical Education quoted by Hon. L. E. 
Groom, M.P., in his second-reading speech on the Science and Industry Bill. 
Ty 
