_“Applications of the Science of Mechanics to Practical Purposes.” By J. Renwick, L.L.D. 1 vol. 18 mo. Harper & Brothers, New York._ The present is a practical age. Literature, science, learning, even the fine arts are popular, only as they can be rendered useful. Every department of knowledge is ransacked to advance the interests, and elevate the character of the age. Enfield’s Natural Philosophy, and the present work illustrate this remark. The former belongs to the past age; to the days of theory; to the men of profound philosophy: the latter is adapted more to the present time; to a practical generation; to men of excursive rather than deep, and available rather than profound science. Not a principle is stated which is not applied to some mechanical contrivance of the day. The action of the screw, the wedge, the lever, the spring, are described as they are adapted to mining, navigation, rail-roads, and the various species of manufactures. But, on the other hand, the knowledge imparted is not profound. Sufficient, as it is, however, for all practical purposes, the student leaves the work with a more thorough understanding of the principles of his study, than more elaborate, but less skilful treatises could afford. * * * * * _“Hope on, Hope Ever.” 1 vol. 16 mo. “Strive and Thrive.” 1 vol. 16 mo. “Sowing and Reaping.” 1 vol. 16 mo. By Mary Howitt. J. Munro & Co. Boston._ These are three excellent tales from the pen of one of the most delightful of female writers. A chaste style; a love for the oppressed; a practical moral in her writings render them at once beautiful, popular, and useful. * * * * * _“History of the United States.” By Selma Hale. 2 vols. Harper & Brothers, New York._ A compendious manual. It brings our history down to the end of Madison’s administration. * * * * * _“Life of John Wickliffe, D.D.” By Margaret Coxe. Columbus. Isaac N. Whiting._ This is an interesting, though scanty biography of the first of the Reformers. It does not pretend to give a philosophic account of his times, but simply to present a chronicle of the principal events of his life. * * * * * FASHIONS FOR MARCH, 1841. EVENING DRESS. Fig. 1.—Of plaid _Mous de Laine_. The head dress of buff crape, trimmed with roses. FULL DRESS.