OH! SHE IS A BRIGHT-EYED THING! SONG. SUNG BY MR. WILSON-WRITTEN AND COMPOSED BY SAMUEL LOVER. MODERATO. LITERARY REVIEW. RELIGIOUS SOUVENIR.-Scofield & Voorhies.-The character of Mrs. Sigourney, the Editress of this work, is a sufficient guaranty that its contents fully support its title and aims. It is a beautiful book, and we sincerely and earnestly recommend it to attention, not only for the entertainment it offers, but also for the good it may do. Its contents are varied, and are generally of superior merit; and its embellishments are very pleasing. It contains eight plates, and forty-seven articles of prose and poetry. Miss Sedgwick has contributed a tale, entitled "Matty Gore;" and the names of Mrs. Embury, Mrs. Stephens, Misses Browne and Gould, and Messrs. Mellen and Benjamin, as well as that of the talented editress, all of our own corps of writers, are among the authors of the letter press; the residue being composed, for the most part, of writers of soundness and renown. NIX'S MATE: S. Colman.-The style of Mr. Dawes' novel is very flowing and pure, the characters, although limited in number, are distinguished by a good degree of individuality, and there are highly wrought and effective scenes. The plot does not altogether please us. Poetic justice is not meted out in the destruction of the hero, since the whole current of the tale leads the reader to anticipate a different result. The introduction of diablerie and witchcraft, although the chapters devoted to them are very poetical and pleasing, is of very questionable policy and fitness, in a national tale having to do with actual and recent events. The one part nullifies the effect of the other, and renders both unsatisfactory. It is, however, so prettily and smoothly written, with so many good points, that it forms a pleasant mental recreation. POETS OF AMERICA: S. Colman,-"The Poets of America illustrated by one of her Painters," form an imposing title to this volume, inspiring the expectation of something of the highest order. And the book is a fair one-the binding superb, the paper excellent, the illustrations novel, and many of them beautiful. But the selection of poems hardly corresponds with the significance of the title. While there are many of the highest worth, such as are glorious specimens of American poetry there are others, even of questionable merit; while, again, there appear the names of many of our most valued poets, the names of others as valued, perhaps, have no place whatever; and some are admitted, who do not deserve to be ranked among the " Poets of America." Again, the best articles of favorite authors have not always been selected. Yet much must be pardoned, when the responsibleness and discrimination involved in the editorship of such a work are considered. It is, notwithstanding its defects, a very beautiful and original book, and is well adapted for presents in this season of gifts. WALKS AND WANDERINGS: Carey & Hart.-The entire title of this work, a reprint, is "Walks and Wanderings in the world of Literature." It is by Mr. Grant, author of various works, of which the first was "Random Recollections of the House of Commons." He has been very severely and justly handled, for sending forth several trashy affairs, upon the capital of reputation he acquired by his first book. The late day of the arrival of these volumes has prevented their perusal, in season for an expression of opinion in this number. It is in a new line for him-consisting of tales and sketches; and if he has done himself credit, we shall say so in our next.-Wiley & Putnam. FATHER BUTLER: T. K. & P. G. Collins.-The object of this tale, which is a reprint, is to display the guiding principles of the Catholic Priesthood in Ireland. The story is not very interesting and the discussions are somewhat tedious; but the style is good and the thoughts are clear. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCE: Lea & Blanchard.-We occasionally receive a number of this highly valuable publication. Information can be disseminated with profit on no subject, with more good effect, than upon the advancement of medical science, and knowledge upon such a theme befits the general reader, as well as the practitioner. Those solicitous to acquire solid information in these respects, may place implicit dependence upon the soundness of the views, and the accuracy of detail, which characterise the American Journal.-Carvills. MEMOIR AND BEAUTIES OF CLAY: E. Walker.-This little and neat volume, is a fit companion to the "Beauties of Webster," issued by the same publisher, and so much valued. The memoir is well written, and the selections have been made with discrimination. The publisher very happily remarks in his preface, "The following selections have been made without reference to any party feelings. Knowing well that Mr. Clay entertains some views on certain subjects, from which many enlightened Americans conscientiously differ, it has been an object whatever. They are presented simply as specimens of eloto omit any extracts, which might tend to offend any party quence; and as such, the publisher believes they will meet with that success, they so well deserve." ALFRED DE ROSANN: Carey & Hart.-This is a very pleasant republication, the scenes being laid in France. The author makes no pretensions, either in style or matter; but narrates an interesting tale in a plain, inoffensive, story telling way.Wiley & Putnam. NICHOLAS NICKLEBY: Lea & Blanchard.--The whole of this celebrated tale is, at length, given to the public in a single volume. It is certainly a gem in literature; but has been, perhaps, rather spun out towards the close.-Carvills. THEATRICALS. PARK.-The novelty offered to the public, at this establishment, in the early part of the month, was centered in the ventriloquial exhibitions of Mons. Alexandre; a kind of entertainment amusing for a time, but very soon palling upon the appetite. "The Rogueries of Nicholas" was the title of the monopolylogue in which he made his first appearance to a crowded house. In it, as may be supposed, he personates all the characters of the performance-successively representing an officer, a gouty alderman, his wife, his daughter, and a valet. The versatility he displayed in the assumption of so many different dramatis persona, with strikingly diversified characteristicsthe suddenness of his changes of attire, and, above all, his ventriloquial varieties of voice were very amusing and clever. He was followed by the operatic corps, of which we are unable to speak in terms of increased praise. We consider Mr. Manvers incompetent to support the rank of first tenor, whether we take into view his power or his skill. In both he is deficient. Mrs. Martyn is, as we have before represented her, a sweet and cultivated singer, but unable, from weakness, to susremainder of the corps, the opinions we have before expressed tain the several varieties of an opera with credit. Of the are valid at the present time. The operas they have presented during their last engagement, in addition to their former efforts, have been "La Gazza Ladra,” “Fra Diavolo," and "Der Freyschutz." In neither did they achieve any results worthy of particular record. During the month, Mr. Simpson, the manager, offered his name for a benefit, and "The Poor Gentleman" was presented, with Miss S. Cushman, "her second appearance on any stage," as Emily, and the whole comedy strength of the company in the remainder of the role, a cast almost unprecedented for combination of talent. The occasion, and the peculiar attraction, filled the Park, a result at which the public generally, who appreciate Mr. Simpson's diligence in his vocation, were highly gratified. Miss Cushman, though embarrassed by her situation, -as what woman would not be?-exhibited superior talent, which was further manifest on the repetition of the play. She has the ability to attain, in time, the position of her sister in public estimation, which is no light praise. NATIONAL. Tragedy, upon the departure of the Vandenhoffs from this establishment, was succeeded by opera. The old and favorite pieces, "Amilie," "Sonnambula," etc., were presented during the first week of the engagement of the operatic corps, the second being devoted to "Gustavus," which was got up with new dresses and properties, and as much assistance from scenery and stage effect as the contracted space would admit. But, to our mind, "Gustavus" is an opera, too beautiful in itself its music-to require such assistance to render it popular. It is true, it has no depth, but criticism is at fault when it interferes beyond the pretensions of its object; and since "Gustavus" was evidently intended to charm by its airiness, it must be pronounced in the foremost rank of its class. Nothing can exceed the true beauty of all its music-its airs, concerted pieces, chorusses-all. The powers of the artists, who sustained it, are admirably adapted to give it effect; and it was, in every respect, charming. We most sincerely regret that we are deprived, in all probability, of the pleasure of listening to it again, during this season. Mr. Forrest succeeded Mr. Kean, and played to miserable houses. After a portion only of his engagement had expired, the house was prematurely closed, Mr. Wallack being unwilling to encounter the almost certain risk of continued losses. NEW CHATHAM.-Brian Boroihme, splendidly got up, has been filling the house at the Chatham, for several weeks; and making matters and things look peculiarly bright to the managers. With a determination not to be outdone, they have effected engagements with some of the most popular members of the late National company, who add to the attractions of the place. EDITORS' TABLE. Our magazine, now, when the footsteps of hoary winter are through the mantling snow, will greet our readers at the comfortable fireside. The purest joys of home are secured by the rough treatment of father Winter; while the coldness of the atmosphere sharpens the mental powers, the cheerful fire within doors contributes to sociability, and inclines to intellectual enjoyment. The incentives to improvement, and the higher sources of gratification, communicated by the season, should not be slighted or disregarded. Let such pursuits be blended with our amusements, and pleasure itself will be enhanced. The holidays are approaching. To all a merry Christmas! Our New England friends, have already luxuriated in their chiefest of holidays, Thanksgiving-and pumpkins have fulfilled their yearly office. But Christmas and New Year's day are more regarded among us and our southern friends, and our greeting will not be inconsistent or untimely. Mr. Charles Kean followed the opera, opening in Hamlet, to a full house. We suspended criticism upon this gentleman's personations during his first engagement, for, whatever our impressions may be, we are unwilling to be guilty of the slightest injustice in our estimate of talent and success. The unfortu-treading over the crackling leaves of the denuded forest, or nate termination of that engagement we sincerely regretted, since, if we indulged preconceived prejudices, they were certainly in Mr. Kean's favor. We listened, therefore, to his several efforts during his last appearances, without being in the slightest degree biassed by the unpleasant circumstances alluded to; and are able to express ourselves according to our deliberate and unshackled judgment, after critical examination. Neither do we place Mr. Kean under the disadvantage of a comparison with his father; since it was not our fortune to have witnessed the playing of that great actor. We compare him only with his cotemporaries-or rather, so far as we can divest ourselves of the remembrance of others-only with our conception of what the characters themselves demand of the actor, to represent them faithfully. In general terms, after this prelude, we confess our extreme disappointment in the result. While we cannot allow that Mr. Kean is preeminently successful in any point dependant on the possession of genius, we accuse him of marring his performances by many deficiencies and faults. His triumphs are physical, not intellectual. His attitudes are good, his gestures graceful, his fighting excellent. But when the question has been put to us, "Did not he fence beautifully in Hamlet, or fight magnificently in Richard," we have conceived it but a poor compliment to answer in the affirmative. Such a point of superiority is fortunate, when incidental to something of sterling worth, but to base an estimate of genius upon it, is preposterous. And, in such points, astonishing as it may seem, in a consideration of the quality of talent which it was expected he would exhibit, resides his chief-we might almost say-only excellence. As a reader of Shakspeare, he is inferior; indeed, so lamentably so, in some characters-as Richard and Othello, for instance that he excited a feeling almost of indignation for we could not suppose him to err through ignorance, and were ready to charge him with trifling with the acumen of his Before another issue of our magazine, the year will have passed away. December is the month for reflection-for sober investigation of the past, and renewed and firmer resolves for the future. MRS. L. H. SIGOURNEY.-We are happy to communicate the information to our readers, that arrangements have been effected with this talented lady, by which she will still continue to be a regular and constant contributor to the "Ladies' Companion." Her engagements in other quarters will not interfere with that connection with the "Companion," which secures to its readers the enjoyment of her beautiful productions. It is proper to state, also, that MRS. OSGOOD's contributions will be confined exclusively to the "Companion," in so far as respects the monthly periodicals in this northern section of the country, with the exception of a single article furnished to a cotemporary at Philadelphia, previous to her arrangement to become an editress of this magazine. The names of several additional writers of the highest rank ary number, as regular corrrespondents of the "Ladies' Companion." We shall relax no endeavors to sustain the exalted position which our magazine, by general consent, has obtained. THE APOLLO GALLERY.-It is with the utmost earnestness that we appeal to the public, to exhibit a desire to advance the arts, by attendance upon the Apollo Gallery during its present exhi audiences. We do not refer, in this condemnation, to disputed in the literature of our country, will be announced in the Janupassages, but to those of the plainest meaning-the most luminous clearness-" which he who runs may read "--and the instances of error, in this respect, were so numerous, as to render any particular quotations of them an unprofitable labor. In all his characters, even his best, he slurs the majority of the more important passages and soliloquies, of any length-hurrying over line after line, and sentence after sentence, as though stops and marks, discretion and emphasis, were matters of no possi-bition of paintings and statuary. It has been a reproach to ble importance. Again, he mouths considerably-and enunciates his R's, like the muster-roll upon a drum. "Things rank and gross in nature, possess it merely "exemplifies this fault most rankly and grossly. Again, Mr. Kean often, when about to be vehement, jumps from one position to another, a mere stage trick, and a poor one; and his attitudes, though seldom or never faulty in themselves, are not always consistent with the paramount passion at the period of their introduction. Mr. Kean, with all these failings, is very good at times-makes some splendid points-pronounces some passages gloriouslyplays, perhaps, a whole scene here and there, finely. But a lofty genius is not content with a gem here and there--at least, it will never exhibit any thing worthy of decided condemnation; and, judging of Mr. Kean impartially, he is not an actor of the first rank. New-York, that the arts and sciences are neglected by its citizens; that lecture-rooms and galleries for the exhibition of the works of the masters in art, are thinly attended. Now, very many make their estimate, and in some respects very justly, of the refinement of a people, by an examination of the attention bestowed by them, upon the arts and sciences. We would not have New-York condemned, as behind her sister cities in this respect; and since the directors of the gallery offer a collection highly worthy of patronage, we sincerely desire to witness a liberal bestowal of it. BOSTON PUBLISHERS.-In a late visit to Boston, we were highly pleased by a call upon Messrs. Otis, Broaders & Co., and Weeks, Jordan & Co., who take the lead in that city, in the number, excellence and variety of their miscellaneous publications. The former deal more especially in wholesale and the latter in retail. Both houses connect with their stores, extensive agencies for periodicals, and are general agents of most of the works of this description issued in this country, for a wide circle around Boston. The latter named house has also an extensive circulating library annexed to its store, and above it, a gallery for the exhibition and sale of elegant prints and paintings, which is a place of great resort. THE METROPOLITAN THEATRE.-It has been determined to build this house under the supervision of trustees, who have been already chosen, viz: Chas. A. Heckscher, J. Prescott Hall, Wm. Paxton Hallet, Washington Coster, Robert E. Emmett, and Thomas E. Davis. The subscribers have adopted a plan submitted by Mr. Calvin Pollard; which we much regret. A large sum is to be expended upon the house; it is to be in a conspicuous situation, and it has been given out to be the intention of those interested, to erect a structure, that shall be an ornament to the city; yet a plan has been determined upon, which makes no valid pretensions to architectural beauty. The front will have a row of pillars, with a rich cornice, but no pediment-a mongrel kind of building, which can never satisfy the eye. Why afford scope for constant fault-finding, in the adoption of so defective a plan? Why not, when it is so easily done, select a pure model, that shall indeed be an ornament and a credit to the city? LECTURES ON SHAKSPEARE.-Mr. William H. Simmons, formerly professor of eloquence and oratory in Harvard University, has just commenced a course of lectures on this subject, in this city, at the Stuyvesant Institute. Will our community neglect this opportunity of enjoying one of the most brilliant series of lectures ever delivered among us-whether we consider the research of the lecturer, the ease and finish of his composition, or the unexampled excellence of his oratory? As a finished speaker, Mr. Simmons is unsurpassed. No one who has not listened to him, is conscious how delicately that sweet instrument, the human voice, may be played upon. CONCERTS. During the last month, the musically inclined in our community have had an opportunity to indulge their tastes with choice morceaus-since Miss Shirreff and Mr. Wilson have given a series of concerts, at which they have sung the Scotch melodies and other songs, in which they have been most celebrated. It is highly gratifying to know that these superior vocalists have been greeted with crowded assemblages; and that the interest in them continues unabated. PORTRAIT PAINTING.-No more acceptable gift can be made in this season of presents, to any one, male or female, than the portrait of a beloved friend. We recommend to those intending to exercise their liberality in this respect, or to any, desirous of portraits, to visit Barker's rooms, 550 Pearl street, a few doors from Broadway, and inspect the efforts of his brush before their selection of an artist. INSTRUCTION IN MUSIC.-An opportunity is now afforded for young ladies to obtain a thorough education in music. Mrs. Bailey, whose musical talent is unquestionable, will make her fixed residence hereafter, at eighty-four, Walker Street, where she will be happy to receive pupils in singing, or attend at private houses, if desired. The advantages accruing from instruction by a permanent resident of the city, and one to skilful as Mrs. Bailey, are manifest. THE PARTING. We present to our readers, a poem of rare beauty, in the present number, with this title-from the pen of a lady of this city. She, herself, is the sad heroine of her own story-and we are happy to have it in our power to mention, that she has since fully recovered her health, and has been joined by her husband at Paris. We are promised more favors from her pen. WINTER FASHIONS-1839, 40.-We feel assured that the plate of fashions which we give to our readers this month, will even surpass in beauty that of September, which was declared by the unanimous voice of the press, to have been unequalled by any thing of the kind in the country. We have placed ourselves, in respect of these embellishments-when we consider their beauty, grace, and exquisite finish-beyond the reach of compo tition. Promenade Dress.-Bonnet of dark erimson or black velvet, with white ostrich feathers. Cloak of velvet or rich satin, trimmed with fur-fur will be universally worn in a variety of ways, on mantillas, mantillets, etc. The lining of a contrasting color, such as rose with black, lilac with green, etc. Sleeves moderately large. Cape and muff of fur. Small silk muffs edged with fur, will also be worn. Under dress of rich silk with stripes of various colors, or plaid-single flounce. Evening Dress.-Robe of spot or plaid silk, tight and pointed waist-deep, single flounce, with either short or long sleeves. If short, a new style of mittens is worn, of white silk net wrought in colored silks, in such a manner as to appear enriched with precious stones, if seen at a distance. Cape of dotted muslin, edged with lace. Apron of silk, striped in colors, or plaid, trimmed with black lace. Hair dressed with full curls in front. NEW-YORK GALLERY.-Mr. Clarke, whose valuable collection of ancient paintings, in Barclay Street, has attracted so much attention during the summer, has secured the splendid halls in the new building at the corner of Broadway and Chamber Streets, opposite the Washington Hotel, where he will shortly open "The New-York Gallery of Paintings, for the promotion of the arts, and the encouragement of artists." He will display some new and most choice pictures, and his collec-style-robe of rich figured satin, boddice waist, edged with deep tion will, undoubtedly, be the resort of connoisseurs, and the public generally. MISS VANDENHOFF.-This charming actress, who so enraptured the New-York public by her admirable personationsevincing a boldness of genius wholly unexpected, has been equally admired and appreciated elsewhere. Baltimore is not enthusiastic in theatrical matters; and nothing but the most elevated talent can excite its people. This, Miss Vandenhoff has succeeded in doing; and, in company with her father, whose fame is already established, has played to crowded and applauding houses. The same success has attended their appearances in Philadelphia. The enjoyment already experienced in this city, during the few nights of Miss Vandenhoff's engagement, has only excited a strong desire to witness her acting again. She may possibly appear on the boards of one of our principal theatres during the present month, but it is a matter of much doubt. INTELLECTUAL AMUSEMENT.-Besides the lectures and exhibitions noticed in our columns, there are many other sources of amusement and improvement at present open to the public in our city; among these are Mr. Vattemare's drawings, paintings, and autographs, Painting of Victoria, Indian Gallery, Dioramas of Lima and Thebes, etc. Ball Dress.-Demi-bonnet of white velvet, with a single drooping feather, trimmed at the sides with gold and silver flowers; hair twice parted, and drawn tight back in the Grecian blonde lace, and trimmed down the front with small bows of ribbon-broad single flounce, festooned with silk bows, and surmounted with a fold of dark silk and satin, same as the robe. Two folds of the same material meet the waist from the fold of the flounce. Short sleeves, with three ruffles of lace-long white kid gloves. with Caps. For parties, caps of blonde will be much worn, trimmings of small roses, feathers and forget-me-nots. Turbans will be chiefly made of embroidered satin and of velvet, with Greek patterns. The ends long. NOTICE. We would call the especial attention of our subscribers to the following remarks. The "Ladies' Companion' is continued after the first year's subscription has expired, unless positive direction has been given to the contrary. By reference to his receipt, every subscriber can determine when his year expires, and communicate information accordingly. Whoever receives the first number of a new year, is liable for the whole year's subscription. This we wish to have distinctly understood. The fact has been repeatedly established by our courts; and it is necessary, for our interest, that we should adopt a rule resolutely to avail ourselves of the security of the law, against all who are negligent in the above respects. |