Small though its reading-rooms unquestionably are, situated in a street removed from the central thoroughfare, and of outward appearance but little in unison with the wealth, respectability, and literary reputation of St. Mary Abbott’s, they still are known and patronized. From the date of their opening, three years ago, they have been becoming more and more frequented. At first they were attended only by those who had joined the Institution with the wish to encourage so good a work. Now they are subscribed to by many who appreciate their convenience for their own sake. This is a wholesome sign—the turning point of success in such an undertaking. For though it be necessary and right to bring to bear upon an infant project all the extraneous aid that can promote its object, no factitious support will permanently avail. To ensure a prolonged existence, it must be sustained by its own merits. It is not till interest comes to strengthen principle that the prosperous future is secured. But in a country constantly and triumphantly calling attention to the freedom and purity of its press, it can hardly be necessary to expatiate on the benefits accruing from its wide and impartial circulation. From the publication of Milton’s Areopagetica, these have been acknowledged. None can say how much the English habit of reading newspapers tends to enlarge the national views. Men cannot see, day after day, the various problems of political and social moment, debated before them by the ablest advocates, without confessing that cogent reasons may be urged on either side. Half an hour spent daily in perusing the current reviews and magazines is usefully employed. By it the mind is kept informed of the events of contemporaneous history, is enabled to form an independent judgment upon measures requiring the sifting of discussion, and led to correct, modify, or expand any sentiments too carelessly adopted, too obstinately defended, or too narrowly based.