Page:Midland naturalist (IA midlandnaturalis01lond).pdf/265
Of these we note one on "Continuous Edges,” by H. Weisse, which is highly ingenious and interesting, Others on "Snakes," by R. C. Gardiner; ‘Local Names,” by H. F. Wilson; and "Autumn Moths." by J. Lea, show good powers of observation. The Rev. T. N. Hutchinson contributes an article on "Corroded Limestone in Yorkshire," illustrated by two beautiful plates drawn on stone by himself. The same contributor has also given a graphical representation of the Meteorology of the year as a frontispiece, but to this the lithographer has altogether failed to de justice, An interesting note on "Beavers in Bute” is illustrated by a humorous papyrograph drawing of “a beaver family engaged in the production of one of their well-known beaver hats,” in which we recognise the skilful hand which enriched the 1875 report with some capital drawings of owls. The reports of the section include exhaustive lists of Rugby fossils, and of insects, birds, and new planta noted during the year, The report concludes with an account of the new Temple Observatory, where Mesers. J. M. Wilson and G. M. Seabroke, assisted by Mr. Percy Smith. will, we hope, long continue the excellent work which they did under the old and cramped conditions. The Observatory, as is well known, contains the Rev. Mr. Davies' ("eagle-eyed Davies") magnificent 8¼in. refractor, Alvin Clarke's masterpiece, which was purchased (a great bargain) by Mr. Wilson, for 400 guineas, and presented by him to the school. Altogether the report shows a most satisfactory state of things. and goes far to explain the numerous distinctions won at the Universities in Naturel Science by Rugby bays of late years. If Martin (see "Tom Brown") ever revisits his old school, his delight end satisfaction must, we should fancy, be unbounded.—W. J. Harrison
We wish there was as useful a guide book to the pleasant and interesting places within easy reach of every large town as the one named above is to the districts to which it relates, The plan of the book is admirable. From Birmingham, as a starting point, the places within easy walking distance surrounding the town are first disposed of; next, more distant places are described, most, however, being such as may be easily reached by a railway ride. Then follow a series of most excellent and suggestive papers on the Natural History of the locality, mainly contributed by members of the Birmingham Natural History and Microscopical Society. These articles relate to Botany, Conchology, Entomology, Geology, and Ornithology, while one, which is particularly good, points out the objects easily found which can only be examined by means of the microscope.
Boating, Bathing, Bicycling, Cricket, and Fishing, as suitable sports for half holidays, are next dealt with, and complete one of the cheapest, most useful, handy, and interesting books ever written for the encouragement of healthy outdoor occupations. The inception and completion of this volume are due to Mr. Joseph Sturge. who has spared no pains to make it a thoroughly trustworthy guide to the holiday seeker. There is a good map (reduced from the ordnance map) of the country for more than twenty-five miles around Birmingham.