example, it is only one in twenty-one. If the accuracy of these statements could be relied on, they would not only afford striking illustrations of the well-known fact that extraordinary differences prevail in the rate of mortality in different places, at different periods, and under different circumstances; but they would further prove that, during the last century, a steady and progressive diminution of mortality has taken place in all the countries of Europe. But of the truth of this there is much more certain evidence than can be derived from calculations, the trustworthiness of the data of which is not established, and the correctness of the calculators not known. Both the fluctuations of mortality and the increase in the value of life in the different countries of Europe, from the earliest period when statistical facts began to be collected and compared, are exhibited in a striking point of view in the following table, drawn up by Mr. Finlaison. The facts relating to selected lives and to the mass of the people are distinguished from each other, in order that they may be contrasted. The data are derived from the most authentic sources, and the calculations are made by men of the highest authority. Let it be conceived, that at each 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 of the following ages, viz. Yrs.Yrs.Yrs.Yrs.Yrs.Yrs.Yrs.Yrs. The average duration of Human Life of both sexes collectively may thenceforward be assumed at a maximum of[2] 23 19 16 13 11 8 6 3 By how many weeks does the average duration which results from the most authentic Tables at present known fall short of the maximum Term thus assumed? Among the higher classes of people exclusively. Answer. Name of the Observer. Wks. Wks. Wks. Wks. Wks. Wks. Wks. Wks. In England— Among the Government Annuitants, between 1775 and 1822 John Finlaison. 35 1 7 10 47 11 14 53 Among the Lives assured at the Equitable Office, between 1760 and 1834 Arthur Morgan. 119 83 87 81 96 33 10 27 Among the Nominees of the Tontine of 1693-- between that year and 1775 John Finlaison. 269 195 170 141 157 110 90 89 In France-- Among the Nominees of the Tontine of 1693-- between that year and 1745 M. de Parcieux. 133 88 87 86 118 70 55 65 In Holland-- Among the Public Annuitants, between 1615 and 1740 M. Kersseboom. 186 118 104 75 96 61 48 84 In regard to the mass of the people. In Breslau in Silesia, between 1700 and 1725, Dr. Halley. 275 211 181 150 166 100 36 137 In Sweden, between 1775 and 1795, M. Nicander, and Mr. Milne. 207 161 164 146 156 94 60 60 In Northampton, in England, between 1735 and 1780, Dr. Price. 209 178 145 110 125 76 65 85