ead them when he came upon the stage. Such is the way in which
anecdotes are manufactured, and conclusions of absence or imbecility
drawn. The speech of the ghost written on the paper lantern formed part
of the humour of the burlesque. Men, dull in comprehending the
eccentricities of genius, set down what passes their own understanding
to the account of the other's stupidity."

Here our notice of the Life of Hogarth would end, did we not feel
inclined to venture a word or two respecting the omission of Hogarth's
_Tailpiece_, engraved in Ireland's "Life," and there described as his
last work. With the superstitious tale attached to it almost every one
is familiar; yet some notice ought surely to have been taken of the
story, even had it only been to expose its falsehood and absurdity.

We find that we have proceeded but half through the volume, so that
Wilson, Reynolds, and Gainsborough must remain for another number.

* * * * *

SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY.

* * * * *

_Microscopic Objects._

The most delicate test objects for microscopes are the lines on the
feathers of butterflies or moths' wings, of which there are many
gradations; some easily demonstrated, and others only to be seen with
the most powerful reflectors, and to the best advantage by the simple
and uncondensed light of the lamp. The hair of a mouse is a very good
test object: it is best seen by daylight; the most difficult parts of
which are longitudinal lines in the transparent part of the hair, which
require high powers. The hair of the bat and seal are also fine tests.
The lines on the scales of the diamond beetle, &c. are excellent opaque
proof objects. The feet of flies are likewise very interesting.

* * * * *

_New Lilac Dyes._

Dr. Macculloch has lately produced two fine lilac dyes from plants of
domestic growth, not hitherto applied to this purpose. One is from the
berry of the Portugal laurel, and the other the black currant. The
simplest process with alum is all that is required for either; and as
far as his trials go, the best tint is produced by the former fruit.

* * * * *

_Dirty Windows._

We have frequently remarked small radiant and arborescent
crystallizations on dirty windows in London, and have found them to
consist of _sulphate of ammonia_. This salt, or at least, sulphite of
ammonia (