The Sun.
London, England, 1865-07-03 00:00:00

THE MAGAZINES.

BLAC W OD.—" Miss Marjoribanks" is continued
at some length, and as the narrative proceeds the
reader is the better able to appreciate the skill and
discernment which the heroine displays. All
obstacles seem to vanish before her, and she triumphs
over these small social difficulties which often ap-
pear insuperable barriers for the cleverest to surmount.
Some notable mystery will evidently be disclosed before
long concerning Mr. Cavendish, who flits backwards and
forwards like a will-o'-the-wisp, instead of going on in a
fearless and independent manner. " Cornelius O'Dowd"
continues his quaint criticisms upon men, women, and other
things in general, in his usual style' and comprehensive
manner. For subjects this month he has the appropriate
theme of " Electioneering" put first. We meet with some very
pertinent observations respecting the absurdities and in-
consistencies that are so rife at elections, and it would be
well for the interests of many if more heed were paid to the
suggestions here met with. There is only too much truth
in the contending remark of this subtle observer—" There
are candidates and constituencies only impatient to show
what a great thing is the election, and what avery small and
ignoble one the elected." "Glimpses of Bliss" is another
attractive sketch met with in this abundant repertoire, and
one feels a melancholy interest in contemplating the picture
of these outcasts from Eden who gaze on the promised
land, but may not enter there. " Carlyle's Frederick
the Great" is, it need hardly be said, an article that is well
worth reading,and that sots some statements before us whose
truth is incontestable. A just tribute is paid to the great
writer whose works are under criticism. It is said that his
perseverance is remarkable—many summers and winters
have still found the philosopher seated in his study intent
on his purpose, earnest at his task. A wise hint is given
at the conclusion of this paper to those who may seek to
copy or imitate this singular writer. It is truly intimated
that " nothing but derision can await the disciple who may
attempt to charm the public by reproducing those singula
rities which only the most affluent imagination and rare
descriptive power could exalt into distinction." " Sir
Brook Fossbrooke" is continued, and is very eventful in
this instalment. The character of the old baronet is well
pourtrayed, and presents us with a fine specimen of a
vigorous and a noble mind—bold to face evil and eager to
protect the deserving. The masterly articles on " The
Rate of Interest" are brought to a conclusion in a third
part. The compilation of these papers reflects the highest
credit on their author, and it will be a great benefit and
blessing for the community when the day arrives which
sees the theories here advocated put into practice. Common
sense will recognise the necessity for the change at last,
and popular approval will be the seal of its suc-
cess ; but meanwhile perversity and prejudice must
have their course. " Piccadilly " is continued : it
furnishes the reader with a smart sketch of
fashionable life, with some of its most notable follies
and absurd freaks exposed. Much to amuse the uninitiated
and amuse the experienced will be icumd in these brilliant