It is a common error to imagine that a greater number of individuals rise in England than in other countries; more, certainly, attain wealth and respectability under free than despotic governments; but it is under the latter only that the very humblest and most illiterate, if possessed of courage and cunning, may approach to the steps of the throne itself. Of the numerous examples which Turkish history affords, none ran a more celebrated career than Ali Pasha. Rendering himself independent by a series of rebellions, his throne was supported by the blood of thousands; yet, notwithstanding the means by which he acquired power, Napoleon treated with him,--Lord Byron was his guest,--and England accepted his friendship. Turkish history, being a record of the indulgence of the worst passions of human nature, is always a terrible romance, but the life of Ali Pasha exceeds in guilt and horror the most infamous periods of Ottoman history. The great tragedy in which he performed so principal a part, was concluded by his own assassination in the throne-room of his palace, in a manner almost too merciful for such a ferocious monster. THE HISTORY OF BRITISH INDIA. By the REV. G. R. GLEIG, F.R.S. 4 Vols. _With a Map and 10 Engravings._ A History of India in a portable form, and familiar style, having been considered a desideratum, the present work was undertaken. It commences with the early annals and first civilization of the Hindoos, traces the progress and decline of the Mahometan power, and brings the history of the success of the British arms down to the permanent establishment of the India Company, and the foundation of that stupendous Empire. It is among the annals of the East that the real _Romance of History_ must be sought. In the variety of marvellous incidents, the unexpected turn of events, the sudden alternation of fortune, we might fancy we were reading an Oriental fable--a tale from the Arabian Nights, rather than sober history. SKETCHES FROM THE HISTORY OF VENICE. _With eight Views after Prout, twenty-nine Cuts after_ TITIAN, _Maps, etc._ Few can explore for themselves the treasures of the Italian Chronicles. The author of this work has laid open their stores for the benefit of English readers,--gleaning from them characteristic incidents, amusing stories and anecdotes; while he has sustained all the dignity of historical research. The writer has avoided the mistakes into which mere compilers fall;--he has not sunk into a mere annalist, transcribing a dry register of facts, but he either passes over entirely, or touches very slightly, events of minor importance, and reserves himself for those more momentous and interesting transactions which require to be more fully displayed. The beauty of style in which these volumes are written has attracted general notice, and the applause of the most competent judges,--in this respect, indeed, they yield to no work of the series. LETTERS ON DEMONOLOGY AND WITCHCRAFT.