The Sun.
London, England, 1853-05-31 00:00:00

LITERATURE.

Memorandums made in Ireland in the Autumn of
1852. By J. Forbes, M.D., Author of a " Phy-
sician's Holiday." Smith and Elder.
It is evident that these volumes have been
written by one who is well acquainted with his
subject,
.and does not borrow from foreign sources.
All the remarks here offered, and the opinions here
expressed, are the result of personal experience and
minute investigation. It must have been an ela-
borate study of the country only that could have
enabled the author to obtain such a thorough
knowledge of its concerns. resides this undeniable
advantage, the work has another attraction in its
impartiality. " Nothing extenuate, nor set down
aught in malice," might have been chosen for its
text, for it maintains throughout a dignified tone,
apart from exaggerated praise or satirical remarks.
This is a merit as rare as it is precious in works of
this kind, wherein we often find talents thrown
away in flippant criticism that might have proved
of good service in the cause of sober reality ; while
national prejudices are awakened, and abeyant ani-
mosities aroused, by the careless jests and thought-
less words. Happily nothing of the sort pervades
the spirit of these pages, or intrudes on the notice
of their readers. The most sensitive or patriotic
can here 'Meet with nothing to excite pain -or cause
indignation. The style is very interesting. It is
enlivened by anecdote and enriched with details.
Information of f,he most varied kind is given cop-
cerning the diversified ranks of society, the prese2t
position of affairs, social, political, and religiouni,
the mode of management at the schools and col-
leges, the forms and ceremonies of the Ca-
tholic u contradistinction to the observances
of the Established Church. On all these topics,
the most desirable points in the arguments of both
sides are set forth ; and the author, in some cases,
subjoins his own opinion, founded on the evidence
adduced before us, and drawn from the conclusions
there met with. On the whole, he takes a not un-
favourable view of the prospects of the Emerald
Isle. He seems deeply impressed with its native
worth and its immense resources ; but, at the same
time, he declares it to be his conviction, that until
many changes take place •in its regulations and
arrangements the government of Ireland will
reflect no credit on its rulers, and result
in uo comfort to the people. In conclu-
sion, however, it is asserted that the measures
for relief and amelioration are not more diffi-
cult of realisation and adoption than many that
have already been carried into effect ; and a hope
is expressed that such " an accomplishment is des-
tined to shed around the memory of some of our
living statesmen a portion of the same glorious
light that must render conspicuous through all
time the names of the authors of the great acts
referred to." Those who would study the subject
of Irish rights and wrongs will be well pleased to
meet with this work, for however they may differ
from its opinions in particulars, they must admire
the general purpose of its pages. They will there
find an endeavour to discover truth, an earnest
exposition of grievances, and an ardent desire for
reform. The lovers of justice will appreciate such
efforts, and the admirers of progress acknowledge
such advances.

MABKET NEWS-(THIS DAY.)
•
COLONIAL.

SUGAR.—This articleisratfierdull. The quantity of
British Plantation landed last week at the East and West
India Docks was 2,311 hhds, ISI tierces, 287 barrels—there
were taken for home consumption 1,379 hhds, 123 tierces,
100 barrels. Tho stock in the same places is 6,832 hhds,
1,252 tierces, 1,219 barrels.
COFFEE.—A large quantity is being put up.
Rum.—The quantity last week at the East and West
India Docks was 135 puns. There were taken for home
consumption, 297 puns. 12 hhds., and exported 115 puns.
194 hhds. The stock in the same place is 8,208 putts.
440 hhds.
RlCE.—Bengal, 1,828 bags offered by auction, were all
taken in at 1.08 6d to Ils for mid. and good.
SALTPETRE.—At auction 3,857 bags Bengal partly sold
at 26s to 27s for 63, to 7 per cent., 27s 6d to 28s for good
4i per cent. The rest were taken in, fine 29s to 30s for
36 to 2 per cent. refraction.
TA.LLow.—P.Y.C. is 47s &I per cwt. on the spot, and
town 49s 3d.
TEA.—There are public sales now in progre3l..