of its entire practicability. Into what a small
space would the useful and practical truths of geometry be reduced, were
we to dispense with the auxiliary propositions which are required merely
to complete the rigid process of demonstration. How simple, for example,
would be the doctrine of parallel lines!--_Foreign Review_.

* * * * *

THE SOUTH SEAS.

The government of the United States are fitting out a commercial
expedition to explore the South Seas. The vessels are to stay long
enough to complete the necessary inquiries, to ensure the safety of the
traders, and to give time for the establishment and consolidation of
relations of reciprocal utility. The advantages which it is evident
America must derive from this undertaking will, it is supposed, not cost
more than 50,000 dollars--_Lit. Gaz._

* * * * *

THE OPERA.

Rousseau defines the opera to be a dramatic, lyrical, and scenic
representation, in which agreeable sensations are conveyed by the
combined effect of all the fine arts, the poetry and action being
addressed to the mind, the music to the ear, and the scenic decorations
to the eye of the spectator.

* * * * *

PICTURESQUE DRESSES IN SPANISH MARKETS.

On entering Madrid by the gate of Toledo, or the Place de la Cenada,
where the market is held, nothing is more striking than the confused
mass of people from the country and provinces. There a Castilian draws
around him with dignity the folds of his ample cloak, like a Roman
senator in his toga. Here a cowherd from La Mancha, with his long goad
in his hand, clad in a kilt of ox-skin, whose antique shape bears some
resemblance to the tunic worn by the Roman and Gothic warriors. Farther
on may be seen men with their hair confined in long nets of silk. Others
wearing a kind of short brown vest, striped with blue and red, conveying
the idea of Moorish garb. The men who wear this dress come from
Andalusia.

* * * * *

HYMN.

I praised the earth, in beauty seen,
With garlands gay of various green;
I praised the sea, whose ample field
Shone glorious as a silver shield,
And earth and ocean seemed to say,
"Our beauties are but for a day."

I praised the sun, whose chariot roll'd
On wheels of amber and of gold;
I praised the moon, whose softer eye
Gleamed sweetly through the summer sky;
And moon