Journal of education, 1 mai 1858, Mai

¦éÿm JOURNAL OF EDUCATION.Volume II.Montreal, (Lower-Canada) May, 1858- No.5.bUAlMARA.—Littérature.—Poetry : The giant, by Charles McKay.—Persevere.— Wit and liumor.—The late Freeman Hunt.—Education : How to govern a school.— io parents.—Catechism of methods of teaching (continued), geography.—Rrd River settlement and the buli'alo hunters.—Official Notices : Laval Normal School.—School commissioners.—Donations to the library of the department.— Situation as teacher wanted.—Notice under 19 Viet.chap.54.—Editorial : Convocation of McGill University.—Laval Normal School.—Report of the Superintendent ot Education for Lower Canada for 1856, (continued).—Monthly Summary : Educational intelligence.—Literary intelligence.—Scientific intelligence.— Artistical intelligence.—Slatement of monies paid by the Department of Education lor Canada East, between the 1st.January and 31st.May 1858.LITERATURE.POETRY.THE GIANT.(1) There came a Giant to my door, A Giant fierce and strong, His step was heavy on the floor, His arms were ten yards long.He scowl’d and frown’d ; he shook the ground :— 1 trembled through and through ;— At length I look'd him in the face And cried “ Who cares for you ?” The mighty Giant, as I spoke, Grew pale and thin and small, And through his body, as 'twere smoke, I saw the sunshine fall.His blood-red eyes turn’d blue as skies, He whisper’d soft and low.“ Is this,” 1 cried, with growing pride, “ Is this the mighty foe ?” He sunk before my earnest lace, He vanish’d quite away, And left no shadow on his place Between me and the day.Such Giants come to strike us dumb— But weak in every part, They melt before the strong man’s eyes, And fly the true of heart.Chs.McKat.PERSEVERE.Never weary, ever toiling On thy course still persevere, in the right, whate’er thy calling, Never weary, never fear.(1) A French translation in verse will be found in the last number of Lt Journal de l’Instruction Publique.Though the skies are dark and lowering, * And the tempest fierce and high, Gloomy mountains round thee towering, Piercing through the very sky ; Never fear ; beyond the mountains Lies the land forever blest, Gushing streamlets, living fountains, Region of eternal rest.In the morning, in the evening, Labor stoutly for the right, Future time will bring the blessing, Truth is full of power and might.In the right, ’tis safe to struggle, Ever constant at thy post, In the darkness, never slumber, Labor on, whate’er the cost.Friends may leave thee, foes may gather, Bitter words may greet thy ear, Show thy manhood in the conflict, In the truth still persevere.On thy journey, never tarry, Idly sporting by the way, Time is flying, night is coming, Make the most of every day ; Thine to labor, thine to struggle, Thine to hope and persevere, God’s to give the final victory, When thy toils are ended here.“ Victory,” every blow is telling, Words of triumph, day by day, Tones of certain victory swelling, All along the toilsome way.Stout of heart, and brave of spirit, Living, hoping for the best, Thou the 11 kingdom shall inherit,” Mansion of eternal rest.1.Niagara Falls.—bew-Yorl: Teacher.Wit and Humor.Wit and humor are of different species.One may be likened to a flash of lightning, the other to a rosy sunlight.Swift, Voltaire.Talleyrand, Jerrold, Congreve, and Sheridan,“were masters of wit ; Fielding, Smollet, Dickens, and Shakspeare, are the greatest of humorists.Moliere and Rabelais had more humor than any two French writers that ever lived, for it must be confessed that the French are not famous for that faculty.Johnson defines wit as the faculty ot associating dissimilar images in an unusual manner.We take it that the leading feature 66 JOURNAL OF EDUCATION is keenness, while that of humor is breadth.Wit is more the offspring of the brain, while humor comes from the whole soul—one’s nature is more seen in the latter, and one’s intellect in the former.We admire wit, but we relish humor ; one is a dainty, the other a meal—one is piquant, the other satisfying ! Wit depends upon nicety, humor upon exaggeration.Caricature, which flavors humor, spoils wit.When Jerrold defined “ Dogmatism as full grown puppyism,” he was witty, but not humorous—but when Crockett tells a man to cool himself by stripping his flesh off and sitting in his bones, the absurdity passes into fun.Dickens abomids in humorous passages.What can surpass the mock gravity of this in Pickwick.Talking of the soldiers he says : “ Nothing can exceed their good humor—it was but one day before my arrival ; that one of them had been most grossly insulted in the house of a publican.The barmaid had positively refused to draw him any more liquor, in return for which he had, merely in playfulness, drawn his bayonet and wounded the girl in the shoulder—and yet this fine fellow was the very first to go down the next morning and express his readiness to overlook the matter, and forget what had occurred.” And a little further on, when he says, “ that Winkle was so fired by the martial music of the band at a review, that he carefully selected the smallest boy in the crowd and deliberately pitched into him.” Sometimes extreme simplicity has the semblance of humor—we will give an example.One qvening at Talfourd’s the conversation turned upon wit—Moore, Sidney Smith, Barham, and many other eminent men were there.Wordsworth, the great poet, said, “ I don’t thipk f ever was witty but once in my life ! ” This, of course induced all to beg him to relate his solitary witticism.“ Some years ago,” continued Wordsworth, “ as I was standing at my gate at Rydal Mount, a man came up to me, and asked if I had seen his wife pass that way ?Wherupon I said ‘ Why my good man, this is the first time I have heard that you ever had a wife,’ ” when Wordsworth stopped.All roared with laughter at the absurdity, and the old poet to his dying day considered the merriment his obtuseness occasioned, as a tribute to his wit.As an instance of that French courtly wit, which is of so volatile a nature as almost to escape in the translation, we may give Fenelon’s retort to the imperious Cardinal Richelieu.Fenelon, one of the best of men, was often soliciting favors for others from the great minister, who too frequently shut his ears to his benevolent friend.Upon Fenelon telling Richelieu that he had seen a portrait of his eminence at the Palace, the Cardinal sneeringly said, “ Did you not ask it for a subscription for some poor friend of yours ?” " No,” mildly returned Fenelon, “ the picture was too much like you.” (1) Lord Erskiue’s répartie to Rogers is a case of non sequitur becoming humorous for its equivocation.Upon the death of some wealthy London merchant, Rogers said, '• He has died worth a million—what do you think of that, Erskinë ?” “ Why,” returned the other, “ I say its a snug little sum to commence the next world upon.” The connection of these incongruous images here makes an absurdity amusing and suggestive ?The impossibility of ultimate benefit from earthly riches is put before all in its strongest light, ft is a sermon in a nutshell on the text of (2) “ What shall it profit a man, though he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ?”—Democratic Reriew.Tiie late Freeman Stunt.The sad record of the death of Freeman Hunt finds fit place in the pages of the Merchants'1 Magazine, of which he was the projector, and the sole editor and proprietor, from the first day of July, 1839, when the first number appeared, until the second of March, 1853, when he died ; to which, during the best twenty years of his life, he gave all his business energies, his vigorous intellect, a comprehensive view of his subject, marked tact and skill in selection and arrangement, and a large experience as publisher and editor, and which is therefore the truest and fairest memorial of what he was and what he did.But we are not writing his eulogy.We shall early take occasion to pay that tribute to his worth which he always had ready for the excellence and eminence of others.(1) This witty retort is difficult to account for.Richelieu died iu 1642.Fénélon was born in 1601.—(Edit.L.C.J.E.) (2) In Crockett’s advice a Frenchman would see nothing but the absurdity; while he would admit that Lord Erskine’s répartie is the wittiest thing that could be said.-^EonoR L.C: J.E.)‘ Of the two hundred and twenty-five numbers of the Magazine, this is the first that comes to the reader without having received his personal supervision, although foi many months, during his last illness, the chief editorial duties were confided to friends, who have contributed for years to the pages of the Magazine, and who are entirely familiar with his editorial views and wishes.To many of our subscribers in foreign lands, this number may bring the first news of our loss.There can be, therefore, no impropriety, now that he is gone, in saying that by all our readers his name will be mentioned, his loss regretted as that of one honorably identified with the Literature of Commerce ; and both at home and abroad— at Sydney and Hong Kong, at Honolulu, Valparaiso, and Rio de Janeiro as well as London, Vienna, Paris, and Constantinople, and wherever else Hunt’s Merchants' Magazine has regular subscribers and readers, it will be acknowledged to have not unfaithfully represented the trade of America and the world.The thirty-seven volumes of the work show at a glance how rapidly its scope, tolerably broad at the start, has widened with growing experience, and with the growth of the nation.No narrow spirit ever presided over its pages ; nor is there wanting another quality, scarcely less important than clear insight, a wise plan, or valuable matter ; for without a careful arrangement and classification of subjects, a work of this kind loses half its value, and is the more confusing from the variety and richness of its material.But by means of a rigid classification, "the series of the Merchants' Magazine is made to present, with something of the method of an encyclopedia, in leading articles and under appropriate heads, Commercial History, Doctrine and Opinion, Mercantile Law, the monthly movement of Trade and Finance, Marine Regulations, the Statistics of Railroads, Canals, and Population, Banking and Currency ; in short, the trade of the country and the age, discussed in its theory, developed in practice, and journalized into books of lasting usefulness for the library shelf and counting-house desk.The rich field of Commercial Literature, in which Mr.Hunt industriously worked, never wore a more attractive aspect, never promised richer results, than at the moment of his leaving it.Since the Merchants’ Magazine was established, twenty years ago, the population of the United States has increased from 17,000, 000 to 28,000,000 in round numbers ; its territory from 2,000,000 to 3,000,000 square miles ; the coinage from $60,000,000 to nearly $600,000,000 ; the tonnage from 2,000,000 to 5,000,000 tons, making our mercantile marine the largest in the world ; ocean steam navigation, during this period, has come into existence ; the electric telegraph has come into existence ; the entire territory of the Union has been brought under organized State or territorial government ; a reciprocal free trade with the Canadas has been established ; England has proclaimed freedom of trade and navigation, and the United States has become, for the first time, a regular grain exporting nation ; some sixty ocean steam companies, not one of which, that we are aware of, existed twenty years ago, employing about 350 steamers have been established in Europe and America ; Californian and Australian gold has built up two great communities of our race on the Pacific and at the antipodes ; and railroad enterprise has, in this country, done in twenty years the work of a hundred.Indeed, the growth of trade has been the controlling movement of the world in the present generation, which all influences in politics and science have united to push forward.Japan expeditions, African explorations, gold discoveries, Chinese wars, all have trade for their key note.Science and invention, which, until our day, devoted their most brilliant discoveries and ingenious contrivances to increasing the productiveness of industry, have done more within the last thirty years, than in all the centuries which went before, to multiply means of communication and transportation, facilities not for production, but for the exchange of products ; in short, for the development, on the grandest scale, of trade and commerce, by land and water, domestic and foreign.The facts and figures we have briefly noticed, show plainly enough that the Lhiited States, one of the first among producing nations, and certainly the greatest of consumers, has felt the fullest force of this commercial movement.And the growth of our trade is not more striking than the new directions it has taken, and the vehicles it employs.Exports from the East go west : the morning newspaper reports in New York, newa b.y telegraph of the arrival at New Orleans the day ‘ before of a steamer from Havana, bringing news of the arrival there of a steamer from Aspinwall, bringing uews of the arrival at Panama of a steamer which left San Francisco with two millions ol dollars in gold two weeks before.Such a paragraph in the first, or in the one hundred and first, nuriiber of Hunt’s Merchants' Magazine would have been simply unintelligible.Where was Aspinwall ?Wberé was the gold ?Where was ocean steam navigation, or the electric telegraph, twenty years ago ?Freight cars will soon FOR LOWER CANADA.67 be fetching and carrying the goods of England and China across this continent on a Pacitic track, and railroads bid fair to re-assert, in our day, for land traffic, the importance which belonged to it in early times, when hardly a tithe of the carrying of the world was done in ships.Nor has there been material growth alone.Commerce has other and higher relations, which the readers of Hunt’s Merchants’ Magazine need not be told—have never been lost sight of in these pages.Never have the relations of trade to Morality and Religion, Literature, Science, and Public Economy, been so fully recognized as of late years.The moral responsibilities of the mercantile calling have become the frequeut theme of the press, the pulpit, and of public addresses.Poetry sees in the locomotive and telegraph realities transcending fiction.The most popular novel of the day in Germany, of which there are two English translations, is a story of commercial life.It has come to be fully understood that literature, which should reflect life, must be defective indeed if trade, which, on a larger or lesser scale involves the interests of all, is lost sight of.The censuses and annual reports of trade published by the leading commercial nations were never so full as now of material of the highest public interest, only requiring to be popularized and made accessible in the pages of a “ Merchants’ Magazine.” The old question, which yet is ever new, of Protection and Free Trade, which is now in a position to be discussed with more fairness and less passion than ever before ; the relations of Labor and Capital ; our Public Land Policy ; the Factory System ; the Condition of Seamen ; Banking and Financial Reform, and the lessons of times of crisis; the question of a National Paper Currency ; the Credit System and the Legal Sanctions and Remedies for debt ; the law of Insolvency and Bankruptcy,.and the system of Assignments for the benefit of Creditors in its bearing upon trade ; Stock Companies and Corporations, and the law of Stock Transfers, with reference to the protection of shareholders against fraud ; Railroad, Steamship, and Telegraph enterprise ; the prospects and growth of our young American cities ; Manne architecture, in reference to the material, capacity, and safety of ships ; Insurance—its principles, practice, and applicability to all the risks of life : Immigration ; Geographical explorations, and the new openings for trade which they’ disclose ; Labor-saving Machinery— its actual and possible applications, and its influence on society, and the condition of the laboring classes ;—such are a few of the topics which invite the pen of him who would illustrate, in its freshness and life, the Commercial Literature of the day.The sneer that merchants read nothing but their day-books and ledgers, loses all semblance of truth, and fades into shallowness, before the brilliancy of the names which, in every age, have adorned the mercantile profession, and shows a poor appreciation of the intelligence of a class which could produce men like Gresham and Roscoe.In our day-, when, under the influence of our Mercantile Library Association, a body of merchants is growing up, partaking in a more than ordinary degree the general culture of the age, it is simply absurd.Our younger merchants will find it hard to believe that, while almost every other science and profession, while agriculture, the mechanic arts, law, medicine, divinity, and even special industries, have long had representatives in our periodical literature, commerce had no “ organ” except the newspaper press, until the Merchants’ Magazine was established.If such a work was needed twenty years ago, it is indispensable now.EDUCATION.Slow to Govern a School.How to govern a school is a vital question to the teacher, yet not to all teachers alike.An assistant teacher, or one who has a small, select, private school, may never be called upon to consider the question of government in the same light as does the teacher of a promiscuous school of a hundred, or several hundred pupils.We e have all heard teachers remark, “ I like to teach, but not to govern.” Now, I think, Mr.President, that every teacher should have something to do in the government of the school, or of the classes, at least.I can not do justice to myself as a growing teacher, or to my pupils, in developing their characters, if I do nothing but hear their recitations.It is very difficult for one teacher to tell another how he governs his school.A friend once applied for a situation in a Boston school.Cau you govern that school ?” asked the Chairman of the Committee.‘‘Yes.” .“IIow?” “ I can’t tell you.” “ Who says you can govern ?” “I say 60,” replied the candidate.The examination ended.The Committee, satisfied with his confidence in his own ability, wisely omitted details.That teacher was successful.The grand secret of governing is to do it without seeming to govern.The machinery of government should be kept out of sight.Let the teacher commence Ins work in such a manner that his pupils shall see that what is right and proper is expected as a part of their duty, and what is wrong and improper will not be allowed at all.It is dangerous business for a teacher to write out, and read to the school, a code of rules all in the imperative mood.It used to be done, and is now by some, but such rules can not always be carried out, and when they can not, the government is good for nothing, and amounts to nothing.Cautiousness in this respect is, therefore, a very important agency in judicious school government.The first impressions made by the teacher upon his pupils materially affect his success.He should, therefore, be gentle, polite, and obliging.A teacher who is boorish, uncouth, and vulgar, will not secure the sympathy of his pupils, and will not govern them easily.I once knew a troublesome boy who was the pest of the school and of the neighborhood.He had a savage delight in “vexing the teacher,” and seldom did a day pass without trouble with him.At leugtfi a new teacher entered the sctiool.Days and weeks passed without any of the conflicts formerly’ so common with this old offender.A schoolmate asked the reason of this wonderful change.His reply was, “That teacher is a gentleman.When I am wrong he tells me of it, and corrects me ; but does not attempt to annihilate me.Bad as I am, you do not suppose me mean enough to give him trouble ?” The teacher must be consistent.He must regard the feeling, the faults, and the failings of his pupils.I have great confidence in young people as reasonable beings.The person who stands behind the pupil—the parent—is often more unreasonable than the child.The teacher should be reasonable with his pupils, especially in his reproofs and punishments.The habit of whispering, for instance, is a source of much evil in school, and unless checked or eradicated, especially if the school is large, will thwart the best efforts of the instructor.But the teacher who represents whispering as a heinous crime, as much so as rebellion against the authority of the school, and worthy ot punishment in the house of correction, commits a fatal mistake.Whispering in a school is a pernicious habit, an offence, and should not be allowed ; but it is not the greatest crime that can be committed there.It is not reasonable to represent it as such.Unreasonable reproofs and punishments are the source of much trouble, and of many failures in school government.Many a teacher in such cases, for the want of a discriminating judgment, often finds himself in the predicament of the redoubtable knight in his well-known contest with the windmills.Another important agency for the teacher is the ability to know the material upon which he works ; the dispositions and peculiarities of his pupils.He can not adapt all his pupils to the Procrustean bed, stretching those that are too short, and chopping off the extremities of those that are too long, until they are all of the same length.In governing a school, as elsewhere, there must be a fitness, an adaptation of means to the end.Several pupils may-have the same faults, or may have committed similar offenses ; but it by no means follows that the corrections, reproof, or punishment needed will be the same.Their temperaments, their sense of right and wrong, the temptations under which they acted, and other circumstances, must all be considered.The teacher must know his pupils—their peculiarities, the influence they are under at home and in the street—and adapt his methods of government and discipline to the peculiarities of each case.The artist who makes his mould in clay, uses not the same implements as does he who works in marble.An ability to disarm pupils of prejudice and hostility', is a very-happy faculty in a teacher.It is also a rare faculty.Physical ability and sternness of countenance alone, can not govern a school.The co-operation of thé pupils is necessary and must be secured.The ship-master who governs his crew by main strength, will tell you that it wears upon his health and spirits ; that his sailors care more for their wages than for his good will, and will desert him in foreign ports.The teacher must be emhusiastie, fond of teaching ; and liis interest must be seen in his work.They who teach for pay merely, or because they can do nothing else, will not be earnest teachers, and they have not within themselves the elements of success.Freedom from ambition to assume and exercise too much authority, in another efficient agency.Teachers are frequently too jealous of their authority, and become imperious and repulsive.In their over-anxiety to govern, by forbidding offenses before they are committed, they suggest transgressions to the pupil, who otherwise 68 JOURNAL OF EDUCATION would never have thought of them.All teachers must expect many provocations, but must, nevertheless, be forbearing.The teacher’s character should have a decided moral tone.He will then stand high in the estimation of his pupils, and will govern by a kind of magnetic—an unseen influence.From his own personal influence his pupils will soon become imbued and impressed with a sense of right, and with such a degree of conscientiousness as will lead them to govern themselves—one of the most desirable objects he can hope to attain.The teacher, in order to succeed, must have and exhibit unwavering faith in his ability to govern his school.The co-operation of parents must be secured, by convincing them that you are the earnest friend of their children, and earnest in your efforts for their improvement and welfare.Where parents are convinced of this, they will sustain the teacher in all reasonable and wholesome discipline.A favorable state of public opinion is also very desirable.To a certain extent it is in the teacher’s power to shape public opinion in this respect, and, most certainly, it is always fjr his interest.When the public generally feel their responsibility in regard to their schools, and manifest a lively interest in their improvement ; when they point to them as the pride of their village or city, and the fountain of good influences to their children and to the world ; then the teacher has in his behalf, an agency that is enviable indeed.—a.p.s.Mass.Teacher.To Parents.1 wish to call your attention to one fact : that interfering with the teacher’s discipline for preserving punctuality- not only- does injustice to him, but has a very deleterious influence on the school, and also founds a principle of non-obedience to your own injunctions, and diminishes their estimate of the importance of regular habits.To explain, take the instance of tardiness.You say, “ My children will always be punctual, unless necessarily detained, and I do not think it a just requirement.” Did it ever occur to you that all children are not as honest as yours ?that the dishonest seek extenuation from the liberty' given the honest ?Your boy goes lale, and you give him an excuse which you desire to serve for the term, viz : “ He will always be punctual if possible.” Let the teacher accept this general excuse, and the next time your boy is tardy he takes his seat, under the observation of the school, without rendering the usual account.Eveiy heedless and dishonest scholar say's to himself, “ I won’t bring an excuse next time.” He comes tardy.“ Where is your excuse, sir ?” “I have none ; you let so-and-so take his seat without one—why not me?” Thus the teacher is pricked with the sharp horn of a dilemma and must prevaricate to retain his dignity.How much trouble would have been saved by complying with the teacher’s wishes ! But why make this ado about punctuality ?Because its importance is daily and hourly forced upon our observation.Show me a lad punctual at every r 'Il-call—starts the moment a recitation is called, with quick but quiet step and brightening eye, and you show one that is always prepared for every question, and eager to drink in every observation and explanation.Again, take one who has no regard to discipline.He is indifferent to noble incentives—tardy in the morning—tardy at noon—tardy at recitation ; throws down his books and slate with a clatter ; is laughing, or looking another way when questioned ; in fact, is a troublesome character generally.Of these two examples, the latter will probably become an indolent and worthless fellow ; the former and honest, capable and trustworthy citizen.Judge you, now which course you would prefer for your boy.If you wish him to be a spoiled child, an ungovernable youth and worthless man, let him go and come when he chooses, reproach the teacher before him for not overlooking his faults, and take him out of school because he will not do it.If, on the contrary, you wish him to be an honour to you, take an interest in his progress— teach him to make his wishes subservient to the regulations of the school, and implant in his mind the importance of obedience, punctuality and assiduity.—Illinois Teacher.Catechism on Methods of Teaching.TRANSLATED FROM DIESTERWEO’s “ ALMANAC,” ( Jcihrbuck,) FOR 1855 AND 1856, BY DR.HETtariflN WIMMER.(Continued from our last.) VII.Astronomy, by A.Diesteuweg.1.Is instruction about the nature of the universe about astronomy, expedient ?Most certainly ; we require the same from every man.To anyone who does not admit that this is requisite, I address the following questions : Has that man an idea of the work of the Creator, and of his relation to both, who is ignorant of astronomy ?or even, is he a man ?No ; he is like a brute confined to a narrow sphere, and has not even learned to make the right use of his upright stature, and of his sense for the universe, the eye ; he has not enlarged his faculty of observing beyond the smallest compass, satisfied the inborn desire of knowledge, developed his intellect ; he might be compared to a mole that closes its eves to the light.We justly pity the poor man who has had no opportunity' to learn the wonders of the starry sky; we despise him, if he has neglected an opportunity ; we blame indignantly whatever would prevent his acquiring that sublime and elevating knowledge.2.What should every body know of the universe ?He should know of infinite space, its laws, the qualities of the sun, the moon, and of our solar system, the relation of the planets to the sun, the position of the earth relatively to the same, its rotations and all that result therefrom, as years, seasons, day and night, in short, the substance of popular astronomy.3.How is the pupil to learn this ?By observation—not by books ; for from these we get empty words, hollow7 notions and phrases ; books may at best assist the preceding instruction, but they can never replace it—ask among the “ educated” people, what ideas they have in this respect, though they have heard of all and can talk of all.The true, vivid and moving ideas of the great subjects in question are exclusively acquired by an intuitive, developing instruction.4.What, therefore, is the teacher to do?He stimulates the pupil to observations ; he makes him conscious of what has been observed, by illustrative questions and conversations ; he draws his attention to the sublime phenomena of the sky by day and night ;he talks over with him such observations as can be made daily all the year round on sun and stars ; he fixes these observations in good order, and in clear, well defined propositions.This is the first step.Scientifically expressed, the pupil advances to the point of view—of what appears to the senses—of spherical astronomy'.This point being attained, considerately and firmly, (we must know first what appears, before we learn what is,) then reflection follows, whether the things really are such as they appear.The pupil advances from appearance to essence or nature.This step is very-important, not only in astronomy, but in all things, and astronomy, for the very' reason that it furnishes the clearest and greatest example of this important progress in human education, is of inestimable value.The pupil learns the nature of the things ; his perceiving is raised to knowing.Disorder becomes order, variety uniformity, and chaos rule and law.One power reigns in the universe, everything obey'S his laws, and every where there results order, harmony, development, life ; and each heavenly body becomes a part of the universe in its infinite sublimity and brightness.It is worth while, not only to hear or to read of that, but to know and to understand it.The pupils now advance to theoretic and the physical astronomy.At last there commences the construction of the whole, at least of our solar system, out of the centre.From the beginning, instruction proceeds fr> m the periphery, from the point on which the pupil stands ; the individual is himself the centre, around which every thing is grouped, and to which every thing is referred ; the observation is subjective.Afterward, it is made objective, and man recognizes himself, the human race and the globe, as a part of the infinite universe.5.What has the teacher to attend to more particularly ?This necessary instruction being still uncommon, we may give here several suggestions : (a) He excludes every thing that can not be brought to sight.(b) He goes always from observation and experience over to reflection and deduction.Astronomy is an inductive science ; hence teaching follows the inductive method.The teacher does not “ dociren,” (teach or lecture,) he guides ; he does not say one single sentence that could not be found by the pupils themselves ; for such as can not be_found by them—except historical notices—are# not fit for them.(c) He fixes the results in the most definite and pregnant expressions.(d) He brings the things observed, thought, spoken of, to view on the black-board, and directs the pupils to similar representations.But he does not begin with drawing, this is Secondary to the finding of perceptions.He émploys éveiy where the pupil’s' imagihation ; astronomy is an excellent means to lead it on a stfre and safe way.Drawing proves the correctness of the ideas, therefore it shouTd not FOR LOWER CANADA.69 precede.If the pupil makes a correct drawing, it is the surest proof of his having viewed and reflected right.(e^He abstains throughout from any use of models, (telluria, lunaria, etc.) They serve afterward as proof, but they may be entirely done without.Who uses them in the beginning, is wrong ; who requires the pupils to transfer that which is represented by those models, to the universe, requires what is impossible : nobody succeeds.The value of models, even of the best, is very much confined.They show the apparent things better than the real ; but even for the former they are not necessary.The teacher may sometimes, by means of a larger and smaller globe, a candle, etc., represent every thing needed.But the perception and representation of what is going on in space, even with shut eyes, is what is indispensable, because it is the principal thing.Whoever does not succeed so far, does not really know or understand.Red River Settlement and tlie Half-Breed Buffalo Hunters.Professor Hind lately delivered a lecture in the Mechanics Institute in regard to the Red River Settlement and the Half-Breed Buffalo Hunters.The subject being of a very attractive nature at the present moment, there was, as might be expected, a good attendance.The President of the Institution, Mr.J.E.Pell, occupied the chair, and introduced Mr.Hind to the audience.The lecturer began by stating that, he proposed to give a very general outline of the social condition of the people of Red River, and of the capabilities of the country they inhabit.The plan he would adopt was, first to describe the appearance of the settlement, and then to refer to the statistics of population, with the habits and custom of the people, the state of education and religion at present among them, and the condition of husbandry.The capabilities of the country might then be appropriately referred to.DESCRIPTION OF RED RIVER SETTLEMENT.The valley of the Red River may be described as a boundless level plain, elevated about thirty feet above Lake Winnipeg, and for a distance of upwards of one hundred miles in a due south direction, rising so imperceptibly that, except by instrumental measurement, its inclination was not apparent.The river flowed through this vast horizontal plain in very tortuous windings.It has excavated for itself a trench, having an average depth of 15 to 30 feet, and only at the ancient beaches and ridges of Lake Winnipeg in its former extension, did any rise above the general level become visible.The tract ef country to which this description applied, contained many million acres of the richest prairie soil, supporting a rank growth of natural nutritious grasses, from which, in the autumnal months hay might be made, and was in fact made over a large extent of country, by the people of Red River.The Assin-niboine River, which enters Red River at Fort Garry, flows for over 100 miles through similar prairies, due west from Red River, and also uniformly level and inviting.Both rivers are heavily timbered for about a quarter of a mile deep on their banks, and beyond this timbered portion, the vast ocean of prairie stretches away until it finds its limit in ancient banks of a former extension of Lake Winnipeg.THE SETTLEMENTS.The settlements lie for fifty miles on the immediate banks of the Red River, and about thirty miles on the Assinniboine.They are divided into parishes, the outlines of these parishes were shown on the map before the audience.The houses of the inhabitants are generally built quite close to the river, and their small farms of from 50 to 200 acres stretch back in long strips into the prairie, to what is called the boundary line of the lots.In the whole settlement there are 922 houses, among which 20 or 30 may be considered as good, roomy, comforlable two-story dwellings—some built of stone, others of wood.The remaining number are estimated in the census returns to vary in value from £100 sterling to £12 10s.each, out of which, however, 597 or more than half the houses of the settlement, are estimated to be worth from £25 sterling downward.We may thus form an idea of the nature of the majority of the dwellings of the people.POPULATION.In 1856 the total population was 6523, in 1849 it was 5291, giving in seven years an increase of 1232 souls.But a change of remarkable character occurred in these seven years in the origin of the population by birth, a decrease of no less than 1Q2 families of European or Canadian origin took place, while an increase of native or half-breed families of 132 occurred.Between 1843 and 1849, the Europeans or Canadians increased by 74 families and the half-breeds by 113 families.It has happened that this diminution of late years in the number of European and Canadian families has very visibly affected the habits and customs of the half-breeds, and there is no doubt but that the influx of Canadians or European people would vastly benefit the so called ‘ natives ’ and prevent them from deteriorating and approaching more and more closely to the pure Indian races in outward habit and tastes, but never it is to be hoped in mind or religion.In many ways does this yearly diminution in the Canadian or European element affect the natives, and in one particular it is remarkably distressing, as showing the probable decline of a race gifted with many noble and rare qualities, if means are not taken to resist their degenerating tendency by the introduction of civilized races who may refine and elevate them.Poverty is greatly on the increase in the settlement.No fact seems to be more surprising than this, and I am inclined to attribute it to the diminution of Europeans and Canadians, who have not hitherto found encouragement to live there.In 1849 there were five members to each family.In 1856 there were six members to each family.The difference during the same time in the population was 1232, but the difference in number of families only 30—and this arose from poverty, compelling two or three families to live in one house instead of remaining as before distinct.Then again in 1849 there were 137 more males than L males in the settlement, but in 1856 there were 73 more females than males.The youug rising male generation has gone to the United States, where there was a market, and work, and good food for all, and some prospects for future years ; but the females were compelled to remain behind.What can be the consequence if this continues long ?Often have I wondered that the Missionaries did not view Red River in relation to the changes in its population, and the results to which those changes, if continued, must inevitably lead.THE DWELLINGS AND FARMS.A hunter’s life is not compatible with husbandry, so that the houses, barns and stables of three-fourths of the population are necessarily thriftless in the extreme.In the Scotch settlement, where the European element prevails, either directly or in a large indirect proportion, much comfort, and, indeed, wealth is apparent ; but among the population, which are, par excellence, “ native,” fanning is a mere apology for employing the period of the year during which they can neither hunt the buffalo nor trap.Let it be understood, that this description applies only to a large majority, but has no reference to many good farmers, hospitable, thrifty, and industrious men among the French half-breeds, some of whom exhibit a comfort and neatness in their homes, which for a quiet, rural life in so remote a part of the world leaves little to be desired.It is well known that, generally speaking, any crop you can profitably raise in Canada, say east of Kingston, can also be profitably raised in Red River; but some kind of farm produce, such as the root crops, attain extraordinary excellence there.Potatoes, turnips, beets, and onions are singularly productive in this rich prairie soil.In a word, it may be said, that every natural condition is eminently favourable at Red River for the farmer and lor farming operations.But there is still something wanting, or there is something present, which succeeds in paralyzing all efforts among the mass of the people to take advantage of the rich material so profusely lying untouched around.A native reasons in this way : “ If I catch that silver fox which I saw the other day drinking at the river, it will be worth more to me than 50 bushels of wheat, and it may be worth more than 500 bushels, for the Company may not take the wheat from me, but 1 shall be certain to get eight pounds for a silver fox.” Again, suppose before the spring hunt begins, that reports come in from the plains that the buffalo are scarce this year, or they are very distant, at the other side of their great feeding grounds, “ the native” reasons and says, “ There is a chance that I shall not kill a buffalo ; there are ten chances to one that I shall not kill more than one cart load, but if I stay at home and farm, what am I to do with the wheat, others will stay at home and farm too for the same reason, and we shall not be able to sell more than 15 bushels each to the Company to keep us from starving aud provide for the winter hunt.Then again buffalo meat and pemmican will be dear this year, I must run my risk, I will go for the buffalo.” He goes for the buffalo, and as has happened to hundreds this last fall hunt, he fails to bring home more than will enable him to reach the settlement.He is consequenlly in poverty until he can redeem his fortunes by trapping in the winter.Such is the condition of at least one hall of 70 JOURNAL OF EDUCATION the “ natives ” of Red River.The necessity of this condition will be seen more fully shortly.FARM STOCK.The facilities for raising stock are very remarkable on the prairies about the settlement.Pasture of very "rich description and hay ad libitum in the fall would almost compel the supposition that Red River would swarm with the domesticated animals.This, however, is not the case.There are now in the Red River settlements '2799 horses, 2726 oxen, 3883 cattle, 2644 calves, 4674 pigs, and 2429 sheep.With the exception of sheep, all the other domesticated animals show a slight increase in their numbers since the census of 1849.But in 1856 there were 667 fewer sheep tnan in 1849, and 1130 less than in 1843.How can we account for this extraordinary diminution in so valuable an animal.Wool is comparatively worthless at Red River, blankets and clothes being supplied by the Company.There exist no manufactories even of the simplest kind that can compete with the Company.Encouragement for this kind of home industry is not offered.The same applies to hides and leather, to tallow and soap, and to numberless other articles which might be manufactured there, but which are imported from England.I will read to you an extract from two letters I have just received from two clergyman at Red River, one being the Bishop of Rupert’s Land, the other, the Rev.Mr.Black.Presbyterian Mi-niter.His Lordship says, “ After all, our grand want is division of Labour.We have no separate trades; all are engaged in everything —farmers and carpenters at the same time, and so on.We want one skilful in tanning, for the hides of the animals are wasted at present.We want one to instruct them in making soap, to save the importation of this bulky and necessary article from Britain.” The Rev.Mr.Black says, “ As to suggestions of an industrial kind I am not a very competent person to make such.There is one thing, however, which I do think of great consequence, especially in view of an increased population, and that is to afford facilities for domestic manufactures.The climate requires large quantities of heavy woollen goods, and these might just as well be manufactured here as imported from England.You saw what a splendid country it is for sheep pasture, and were there means of making wool into cloths, blankets, &c., great attention would be given to the rearing of sheep.Great quantities of such goods are also required for the fur trade, and it would be an advantage to have them manufactured here.Among the emigrants coming up to take possession of the land, it would be a great advantage were there somebody to establish machinery for carding, fulling, and dyeing—perhaps spinning and weaving also.” Who would think of bringing soap from England, through Hudson’s Bay, over 700 miles of barren, rocky country, to a country where tallow and ashes are thrown away, where salt exists on the spot in great abundance, and rosin could be produced wfithout difficulty from the Winnipeg?Why, it will be asked, have simple machinery and instructed workman not being introduced to work up the wool which is so easily produced in a country where it is so much wanted ?The answer is clear in this as in all other cases.A settled industrious life is incompatible with the pursuits of a hunter.A huntei’s home is the prairie or the woods, and he can never afford to remain long in one spot.The necessities of the fur trade require pemmican and buffalo meat as well as the skins of the lur-bearing animals.And the buffalo require grazing grounds._ To convert the brave and daring half-breed hunters into quiet agriculturists, or contented artizans might lay the foundation of a great province ; but it would endanger a most lucrative monopoly, and therefore it cannot be wondered that those who enjoy that monopoly should have endeavored to maintain the settlement at Red River as the entrepot or station of a hunting establishment on the grandest scale, to which their employees might repair during the seasons when their services were not required in the field.Tire machinery of Red River is represented by 15 windmills, 9 watermills, 8 thrashing machines, 2 reaping and 6 winnowing machines, and one carding mill.As means of locomotion they possess 2045 carts, 522 canoes, and 55 freighters’ boats, capable of carrying 3 or 4 tons.In all that relates to religion and education they are well provided for.The churches are 9 in number, and some of them very imposin" stone buildings—5 Church of England, 3 Roman Catholic, and one^Presbyterian—besides those belonging to outlying districts.Of schools there are 17, some of them well supplied with competent masters.Of so-called merchant’s shops, or petty trader’ shops, there are 53 ; in other words, there are 53 persons who import goods and carry on a small trade, purchasing furs for goods.THE HALF-BREED HUNTERS OF RED RIVER.About the 15th of June the professed hunters start for their summer hunt of the buffalo.There are now two distinct bands of buffalo hunters, one being those of Red River, the other of the White Horse Plain on the Assinniboine.Formerly these bands were united, but owing to a difference which sprang up between them, they now maintain a separate organization and proceed to different hunting grounds.The Red River hunters go to the Coteau de Missouri and Yellowstone.The White Horse Plain settlers generally hunt between the branches of the Saskatchewan and also over the same grounds as their Red River brethern.The improvidence of many of the hall-breeds is remarkable.During the winter before last, those of the White Horse Plain camped out on the distant prairies and killed thousands upon thousands of buffalo in wanton revelry, taking only their skins and tongues, little caring that the reckless destruction of these animals must probably' exercise a very important change for the worse in their condition.As the buffalo diminish and go farther away towards the Rocky Mountains, the half-breeds are compelled to travel much greater distances in search of them, and consume more time in the hunt ; it necessarily follows that they have less time to devote to farming, and many of them can be regarded in no other light than men slowly subjecting themselves to a process of degradation by which they’ approach nearer and nearer to Indian habits and character, relinquishing the civilized, but to them unrequited, pursuit of agriculture, for the wild excitement and precarious independence of a hunter’s life.The fascination of a camp on the high prairies, compared with the hitherto almost hopeless monotony of the farms of Red River, can easily be understood by those who have tasted the careless freedom of prairie life.I was often told that the half-breeds are always sighing for the hunting season when in the settlements, and form but a feeble attachment to a settled home, which, to the great majority, can never offer, it is said, under present circumstances, a comfortable living, and much less a reasonable maintenance, or the consciousness of possessing a free and manly spirit, with rational aspirations and hopes.But few simple aids are required at Red River to ameliorate and vastly improve the condition of the more improvident and careless half-breeds.They frequently bring in a large quantity of buffalo meat or robes to the trading posts, and receive a large sum of money in exchange, or, if they insist upon it, a certain quantity of rum.The money is spent at once in simple necessaries, dress and ornaments.The establishment of a Savings Bank would have an excellent effect, and doubtless become the source of much permanent good, with other objects in view than those incident to the exclusive prosecution of the fur trade.The following information, concerning the buffalo hunter, in the field, was given me by Mr.Flett, who resides on the Assinniboine River, and at whose house I was very hospitably entertained :— The start is made from the settlement, about the 15th of June, for the summer hunt, and the hunters remain on the prairie till the 20th of August or 1st September.One division (the White Horse Plain) goes by the Assinniboine River to the Rapids, crossing, and then proceeds in a south-westerly direction.The other, or Red River, division pass on to Pembina and then also proceed in a southerly direction.The two divisions sometimes meet, but not intentionally.In Mr.Flett’s division in 1849 there were, according to a census taken near the Chief’s Mountain, not far from the Shay-enne River, Daeotah Territory, six hundred and three carts ; seven hundred half-breeds; two hundred Indians; six hundred horses ; two hundred oxen ; four hundred dogs, and one cat.After the start from the settlement had been well made, and all stragglers or tardy hunters were thought to have arrived, a great council was held and a president elected.A number of captains were nominated by the president and people jointly.The captains then proceeded to appoint their own policemen, the number assigned to each not exceeding ten.Their duties is to see that the laws of the hunt are strictly carried out.In 1849, if a man ran a buffalo without permission before the general hunt began, his saddle and bridle were cut to pieces for the first offence.For the second offence of the same description his clothes were cut off his back.At the present day these punishments are changed to a fine of 20s.for the first offence.No gun is permitted to be fired when in the buffalo country before the “ race ” begins.A priest sometimes goes with the hunt, and mass is then celebrated in the open prairie.At night the carts are placed in the form of a circle, with the horses and cattle inside the ring, and it is the duty of the captains and their policemen to see that it is rightly FOR LOWER CANADA.71 done.All laws are proclaimed in camp, and relate to the hunt alone.All company orders are given by signal, a flag being cairied by the guides, who are appointed by election.Each guide has his turn of one day, and no man can pass a guide on duty without subjecting himself to a fine of 5s.No hunter can leave the camp to return home without permission ; and no one is permitted to stir until any animal or other property of value supposed to be lost is recovered.The policemen at the order of the captains can seize any cart at nightfall and place it where they choose for the public safety, but oimhe following morning they are compelled to bring it back to the spot from which they moved it the evening previous.This power is very necessary in order that the horses may not be “ stamped ” by the night attacks of the Sioux or other Indian tribes at war with the half-breeds.A heavy fine is imposed in case of neglect in extinguishing fires when the camp is broken up in the morning.In sight of buffalo all the hunters are drawn up in the line, the president, captains and police being a few yards in advance restraining the impatient hunters.“ Not yet ! Not yet ! ” is the cry of the president : the approach of the herd is cautiously made.“ Now ! ” and as the word leaves the lips of the president, tie charge is made, and in a few moments the excited half-breeds are among the bewildered buffalo.The half-breed hunters, with their splendid organization when on the prairies, their matchless power of providing themselves with all necessary wants for many months together, and now, since a trade with the Americans has sprang up,—if they choose for years ; their perfect knowledge of the country, and their full appreciation and enjoyment of a home on the prairie wilds, winter or summer, would render them a very formidable enemy in case of disturbance or open rebellion against constituted authorities.The half-breed population of Red River could pass into open prairies at a days notice and find themselves perfectly at home and secure, where white men, not accustomed to such a life, would soon become powerless against them, exposed to continued peril.The causes wnich have led to the present condition and prospects of this people is truly a painful subject.It is one which cannot escape the attention and care of philanthropists.Men will enquire how it is that a race giving evidence of admirable discipline, self-'Tovernment, and courage when in the open prairies, should subside mto indifferent and indolent husbandmen when in the settlements.Considered as the native population of Red River, how is it, will be asked, that so few among the many have succeeded in the course of many years in acquiring comfortable homesteads, and well-stocked granaries and farm-yards, and why has the European or Canadian element disappeared?The chances of nearly all have been equal ; land of admirable fertility everywhere surrounds them ; with unsurpassable advantages for rearing horses, cattle and sheep, yet little or no progress has been made in many years : and in respect of sheep, which might soon in a measure supply the place of the buffalo, a serious diminution in numbers has taken place.It is true that within the last few years many hundred head of cattle have been driven across the prairies of Minnesota to St.Paul, and sold well there.This new export trade should have given encouragement to raising stock, yet stock, with unlimited pasture, is diminishing; time is wasted at the distant hunts which might be given to far more profitable homo industry; and those who really enjoy a settled life, and know the advantages which industry confers, from experience gained in Canada or Europe, leave the country and seek their fortunes elsewhere.Every stranger is struck with surprise that the houses of half-breed hunters show no signs of recent improvement—show no signs of care and attention devoted to gardens, or the cultivation of fruit.Plums grow wild in the forest, but none are seen in the settlements.Apple trees are only now beginning to be tried at the Stone fort.No effort of manufacturing industry can be seen in the settlement beyond the windmill for grinding wheat.It must not be supposed that this stationary, or rathe” retrogade, condition is unnoticed by the mass of the people; they see the comfort by which the retired factors, the clergy, and the traders ot the settlement are surrounded, and the comparative luxury which exist at the forts: but they do not rightly understand how their own condition might be remedied, lor the majority cannot discover in what way the rèwards of industry may be won, or where a market for labour is to be found, except that kind of wild labour in the distant prairie, or in the woods, which they have always been taught to love institlctively, or consider most profitable and alone capable of securing their comfort and happiness.Under such circumstances it eafinot cause surprise that discontent prevail^; At (he settlements much disappointment and dissatisfaction is everywhere seen, and wrongs, real or imagin- ary, for which they have no redress, form the constant ^ect of complaint in daily conversation.In these repintngs all who are noîYn the service' of the Hudson’s Bay Company, or in some way connected with them, as far as my experience enabled me to judge, uniformly agreed.Let the condition of the half-breeds geneirafl^ be contrasted with the present prosperity of many of their Scotch and French brethren, who farm and hunt with discretion and judge ment, and the splendid capabilities of Red River will not be overlooked in surveying the paralyzed efforts of those who are taught rely chiefly on the hunter’s precarious gains.The learned professor concluded his interesting and able lecture, bv «riving a very graphic description of the route to the settlement, which in substance, was the same as that contained in his report to the Government, and which was published a day or two ago in the Colonist.The lecturer, we need hardly say, was listened to with the greatest attention, and retired amidst much applause.Cana-dian Journal of Science.OFFICIAL NOTICES.Education Office—Montreal, 31st May 1858.All municipalities, whose reports of the census for 18o7, shall not have been received at this office, on or before the fifteenth day of Juh Mt, will be deprived of their share in the government prant hereafter to become due to them.APPOINTMENTS.His Excellency, the Governor General, has been pleased to approve of the following appointments : LAVAL NORMAL SCHOOL.The Reverend Jean Langevin, Pr., to be principal, Ordinary Professor and Director of the boarding establishment for the pupil-teachers ot the Laval Normal School, in the place of the Right Reverend Dr.Horan, appointed Bishop of Kingston, C.W .Mr.Joseph Matte, to be director of the study in the same Normal School.SCHOOL COMMISSIONERS.County of Ottawa.— Wakefield : Messrs.Joseph Erwin and James McLaren., , , , County of Hochelaga.—St.Henri : Mr.Adolphe ^ llseam.DONATIONS TO THE LIBRARY OP THE DEPARTMENT.The Superintendent acknowledges with many thanks the receipt of the following donations to the library of the department.From Messrs.Robert S.Davis & Co., Boston : Greenleaf’s New Primary Arithmetic, 1 vol.in-18, and Greenleaf’s Intellectual Arithmetic, 1 vol.From Mr.Aug.Braud, heretofore professor, and now a resident member of the Society for the Promotion of Elementary Education, in Paris : “ Les premieres leçons par cœur pour les enfants des deux sexes de six à neuf ans," 1vol.iu-18., From Mr.J.J.Rapet, of Paris :“ Manuel de Morale et d’Economie Politique, à l’usage des classes ouvrières,” 1 vol.in-12 ; “ Cours Elémentaire de la Langue Française,” by himself and Mr.L.C.Michel, 3 vols.In-12.From Mr.Th.Valade-Gabel, of Paris : “ Méthode à la portée des instituteurs primaires pour enseigner aux sourds-muets la langue française, ’ 1 From Mr.H.Emile Chevalier, of Montreal : “ L’Héroïne de Château-guay, épisode de la guerre de 1812,” by himself, a pamphlet in-32.From Charles Northend, Esq., A.M., New-Britaiu, Connecticut, U.S.: The Teacher and the Parent, a treatise upon Common School Education, by himself, 1 vol.in-8.LIBRARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OP EDUCATION.All persons having books in their possession, belonging to this library, will please return them at as early a date as possible.It being intended to prepare a detailed and classified catalogue, the library will be closed until it is completed.J.Lenoir, Librarian.SITUATION AS TEACHER WANTED.Mr.John Keys, a teacher provided with a diploma for an elementary school, and prepared to pass examination for a model school diploma, requests employment.Mr.Keys is a protestant, and is married. 72 JOURNAL OF EDUCATION nJîrnn Gé"er Prov.ded with a diploma, will undertake to teach, andTembroiderv °‘ ïhet?ric> WNW, needle work, netting and embroidery, ic Addrew to the Revd.C.Larocque, curé of St Kduc’at?onEdfficc!hC Mr R°bert’ ^ Bla,rfindie (Lacadie), or to the aufhorUW tHatUaT’ ?married man> and Provided with a diploma g i?*?teach e!emen,ary schools requests employment .Mr He'wnnld hUld aw°sac.cept the situation of singer in a parish church.He would be enabled to teach the boys, and Mrs.Hallaire who is also Wiwin w‘fi a lp0?mv! WOuld ,each the female scholars.Address Mr.Augustin Hallaire, St.Vincent de Paul.NOTICE TO THE DIRECTORS OF INSTITUTIONS CLAIMING AID ON THE GRANT FOR SUPERIOR EDUCATION UNDER THE ACT 19 VICT , CHAP.54.The distribution of the fund, granted for superior education having lieen much delayed in consequence of several institutions having alleged that they had not been supplied with blank forms of demand and returns’ within the usual time or, that their returns had been duly mailed during the prescribed term, although they had never been received at the edu-cation office : NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN.1st That this year, no institution shall be entitled to or receive any aid unless the return, and demand therefor, by fyled within the period prescribed, that is to say, before the first day of August next.No exception will be made under any pretence whatsoever.2nd Acknowledgment of the receipt of such return and demand will be made immediately to the party forwarding same, 3rd.Any party not receiving such acknowledgment within eight days alter mailing the documents should make enquiries at the post office and also at this office, failing which, such demand and return will be deemed as not having been sent in.4th Blank forms will be transmitted during the first fortnight in June next, to all institutions now on the list, and institutions not receiving tnem during that period, must apply for them at the office of this department.r 5th.Institutions not on the list, who may be desirous of making the necessary return and demand, can obtain the requisite blank forms by applying for them at this office between the 1st and 15th of June next.Education Office, ?Montreal, 15 may 1858.$ Pierre J, O.Chauveau, The proceedings were opened with prayer by the Rev.Vice-Principal Leach.The minutes of last Convocation were read by the Secretary, W.C.Baynes, Esq., B.A.The Convocation then proceeded to ballot for Convocation Fellows for the coming year, when W.B.Lambe, Esq., B.C.L., was unanimously re-elected to represent the graduates in Law; T.W.Jones, Esq., M.D., those in the Faculty of Medicine ; and B.Chamberlin, Esq., M.A.those in the Faculty of Arts.The \ ice-Principal, as Dean of the Faculty of Arts, next announced the list of graduates, the prize men, and those taking honors among the students of that faculty, as follows : PRIZE MEN.Students of the First Year.Green—1st prize in English Literature ; prize for German ; College prize for Classics.Wright—1st prize in History, in French, and in Mathematics.Matiikson—2nd prize in French.Students of the Second Year.Bullock—Prize in Logic ; 1st in History ; Professor's ditto in Mathemn-tics ; ditto ditto in Classics ; prize in German.Dougall—Wheeler prize in Zoology.PRIZE POEM.Hall—Logic, College prize in Classics and in French, and Professor’s prize in History.Walker—2nd prize in French ; College ditto in Mathematics.Jenkins—Prize Essay.McIntyre—2nd prize in Zoology.Students of the Third Year.in Moral Philosophy and Mental Science ; College College prize in Mathe- JOURNAL OF EDUCATION.MONTREAL, (LOWER CANADA) MAY, 1858.University of McGill C ollege, annual convoCATJOsTte(it lo vbjJla aril gn A large audience assembled to witness the proceedings.Many persons had to leave the Hall, unable to obtain entrance.The President of the Board of Governors, the Hon.C.D.Day,LL.D., presided, having thë Principal, Dr.Daw- son, on his right hand, and the Vice-Principal, the Rev.Canon Leach on his left.There were present oh the dais :_ D.Davidson, B.Holmes, W.JMolson, and A.Morris, M.A., Esquires.Governors—Prof.Holmes, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine; Prof.Abbott,.Dean of the Faculty of Law; Prof.Howe, Rector of the High School ; and B.Chamberlin, M.A., and W.B.Lambe, B.G.L., Fellows.The other members of Convention, whom we noticed as present, were Professors Campbell, Scott, Wright, Howard, MoCallum, and Dr.Craik,of the Medical Faculty ; Professors Torrance and Lafreiraye, of the Law Faculty ; and Professors DeSola, Markgral, Fronteau, Cornish; and Johnston, of the Faculty of Arts ; The Hon.P, J.O.Chauveau, LL.D.; Drs.Hings- Kirby—1st prize ______ prize in Classics ; 1st ditto in Botany ; matics : ditto ditto in Hebrew.Mattice—2nd prize in Botany ; Professor’s ditto in Classics : 2nd prize in French ; Professor's ditto in Moral Philosophy and Mental science ; dilto ditto in Hebrew.Mason—1st prize in French.Students of the Fourth Year.McLaren—1st prize in Rhetoric ; 1st ditto in Geology, Mathematics and German.Pumsoll—1st prize in French.Perkins—Professor’s prize in Geology.CLASS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING.Walker—1st prize in Engineering.McLennan—Professor’s prize for Drawing.HONORS.Students of the First William McKay Wright, (Joseph Green, William E.Bullock, Thomas Walker, Year.1st Honors.Second Year Students.^ 1st Honors.Third Year Students.' - - v « J 11 ton, Bergen, and Church, and T.Grbson, Esq.A.M.James Kirby—1st Honors.GRADUATING CLASS.Henry McLaren—Chapman Medalist.( 1 > R.J.PLTMsêt—2nd ifonors.I lie following is the list of the schools from which the prize-men were sent up to the University •Green—Barnston High School and Huntingdon Academy.Hall—High School, Montreal.Walker—Gxammar-Scbeol, Bcamsville, C.W.Bullock—Newbury Academy, Vermont.Wright—High School, Montreal., J 't0 yJlniiïT Sfltlo rilS'jG si - In nUTThii is the highest University distinction in this Faculty. FOR LOWER CANADA.73 John R.Dougall—High School, Montreal.Jenkins—High School, Montreal.Mathieson—High School, Montreal.McIntyre—Cornwall District School.McLaren—High School, Montreal.Mattice—District School, Cornwall.Plimsoll—High School, Montreal.Mason—High School, Momtreal.Perkins—High School, Montreal.McLennan—Upper Canada (locality not given.) Gooding—Kngland (locality not given.) In announcing the award of a prize to Mr.Dougall for Zoology, the Vice-Principal stated that it was the gift of Dr.Wheeler, of this city, offered with a desire to promote the study of that science among the young men attending the College.Pie thought that there were other subjects for which prizes could be wisely given by citizens, and commended the taste of a lady who desired, on entering her son at the High School, that he should be taught Logic, and suggested that somebody might well offer a prize for proficiency in that branch of learning.The certificates of Honors and Medals were distributed — Messrs.Plenry McLaren, Reginald J.Plimsoll, and John A.Perkins, were announced as having passed their examination and become entitled to the degree of B.A.by the Dean of the Faculty, and Mr.Oliver Gooding to receive his diploma as Graduate in the class of Civil Engineering and Land Surveying.The Vice-Principal said that the conferring of this latter Diploma formed an era in the history of public education in Montreal, and he believed in the Province.They would recognize a peculiar fitness in this first honor falling to the person who had received it.(We understand Mr.Gooding is nephew of Mr.Hodges of the Grand Trunk Railway.) Mr.Perkins then delivered his valedictory address ; Mr.Jenkins read his prize essay ; Mr.Dougall his prize poem.After which the Graduates were presented by the Dean of Faculty to the Principal, and, the sponsia academica having been first administered by the Registrar, received their degree.Professor Cornish addressed the Students and Graduates in the Faculty of Arts.The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Professor Holmes, next announced the names of the Graduates in Medicine, which we subjoin with their several places of residence and subject of Thesis :— James Kerr, London, C.W., Pneumonia.T.P.English, London, C.W., Tuberculosis.Jamas McGarry, Niagara Falls, O.W., Cirrhosis.William Harkin, Hawkesbury, C.E , Spontaneous Human Combustion.George Pattee, St.Johns, C.E., Albumen in Urine.L.T.Robitaille, Varennes, C.E., Bleeding at the Bend of the Arm and its Accidents.W.H.Taylor, Montreal, C.E., Cardiac Dropsy.J.S.Duncan, Montreal, C.E., Paraplegia.C.W.E.Glenn, Chambly, Q.E., Lout1 or rhea, G (> The prizes for Essays in this Faculty wer© awarded to M .H.Taylor and T.F.English.For the hesf Examinations, Primary, L.J.Andy ; Final, Wm.Harkin.Dr.Robitaille delivered the valedictory in french on behalf of the Graduates in Medicine.The Graduates were then severally presented by the Dean of Faculty and rèceived their degrees, after which they were addressed by Professor Hall.The Dean of the Faculty of Law announced' ^he prizes awarded and honors conferred on the Students in that Faculty :— FOR GENERAL PROFICIENCY.Students of the 1st year.—Girouard.2nd year.—R.Leach.3rd year.—Daly and Jodoin.GLASS OF COMMERCIAL LAW.1st year.—Girouard.2nd year.—Ricard.3rd year.—Daly.ROMAN LAW CLASS.1st year.—Girouard.2nd year.—Leach.3rd year.—Jodoin and Doutre.LEGAL HISTORY AND BIBLIOGRAPHY.1st year.—Walshe.2nd year.—Pariseau.3rd year.—Jodoin.Mr.Daly delivered the valedictory on behalf of the Students in this Faculty, after which the Dean of Faculty presented the following gentlemen, who received the degree of B.C.L.:—Messrs.D.Browne, B.A., Daly, Doutre and Jodoin.The Principal then announced that the Corporation had, during the past year, conferred the degree of L.L.D.on Professor De Sola, who had been long counected with the University as its Hebrew Professor, and had this year collected a class pursuing the study of that language.They had the more pleasure in conferring the degree upon him that his name was not unknown in the literature of his owu people.Also, the same upon W.S.Smith, Esq., Rector of the High School cf Quebec, a worthy competitor of our own High School, in the diffusion of a sound education.Also, the same degree upon Professor Holmes.The Principal was sure the announcement of this degree would be received with great satisfaction.The Professor had been conuected with the Medical Faculty of the University since its first establishment in 1823, and had been Dean of that Faculty through many years, when it alone gave evidence that the University possessed any vitality.He was now the Senior Professor of the University.He had, too, when few men gave attention to these subjects, been most influential in founding the Natural History Society, and promoting the study of that science.The Principal concluded with a few appropriate parting words to graduates and students.The President made a statement at considerable length of the educational progress and capabilities and pecuniary position of the University.He said : Before closing the proceedings of the day, it may be interesting to the members of Convocation and the audience generally to receive a statement of the present condition of the University.This I shall endeavor to give, without unnecessarily occupying yourtime ; but before entering upon it, I must give expression to the feeling with which I have witnessed the want of comfortable accommodation for those who have favored us with their proseuce here.The crowded state of the -hah, and the number of ladies, as well as gentlemen, who are compelled to stand in the passages and at the doors, while they afford a gratifying proof of the interest felt in the progress of the University, cannot but occasion sentiments of regret—I might almost say of mortification and shame—that we are unable to provide a fitter place for the.reception of our friends upon this grand ceremonial, which completes and announces to the public the labors and results of the College year.I can only say in apology that pur poverty and not odr will consents.” Ut ns'hope that before an-other Convocation, there may be found among our many rich and generous tellow-citixens some heart large enough to aid us in this matter by the erection of a Senate House, to bear the founder’s name—thus secur-mg for it the respect of the present generation, and perpetuating it in the grateful recollection of those to come.To return to the immediate business before us, I bave much satisfaction in stating that the University, in 74 JOURNAL OF EDUCATION all its educational departments, is enjoying a prosperity which a few years since, its most sanguine friends could scarcely hare ventured to hope It is now educating 405 persons.Of these, 245 are pupils in the High School Department.35 in the Faculty of Arts, 83 in the Faculty of Medicine, and 30 in the Faculty of Law.Besides these, 300 are receiving education in the McGill College Normal School, of which 70 are young persons in the course of training for the profession of teachers, and 230 are children in the Model School.The entire number of persons taught in the University, or under its immediate direction, is 705.In order to avoid prolixitv, and to secure precision in my statements, I shall read from a report recently prepared for submission to His Excellency the Governor General :— Your Memorialists beg leave to submit to your Excellency a statement of the condition and pecuniary wants of the University of McGill College, with the view of obtaining a Legislative grant of money for its present relief, and a permanent endowment for its future support.“ They deem it unnecessary to enlarge upon the fact already familiar to your Excellency, that the University has been raised, by great exertions, from an absolutely' prostrate condition to one in which it has become in a high degree useful, and is daily becoming more so.“ It is now instrumental in educating upwards of 700 persons—including pupils i i the Model and Normal Schools, and upwards of 400 in the University proper.For a statement of its complete success and prosperity in all its departments, your Excellency is respectfully referred to the annexed copy of the Annual Report of the Corpoiation.“ This position has not been attained without great difficulty and the necessity for incurring grave responsibility.The Governors have, nevertheless, gone on in the trust that the results would justify their course and secure for them the confidence and support of the public and the Government ; and thus far they have not been disappointed.The liberality with which an endowment fund, amounting to £15,000, has been recently established by the subscription of a number of the citizens of Montreal, is known to your Excellency ; and the Provincial Government has always met the application in behalf of the University in a wise and fostering spirit.But the Endowment Fund does not yet yield the full benefit which will hereafter be derived from it, and the Legislative aids, upon which the Governors greatly depended, have been suddenly and materially diminished by the introduction of the new system of distribution through the Superintendents of Education, still falls short of the amount necessary.“ Thus, not withstanding the partial assistance received, and the exercise of the mo3t rigid economy, the income of the University is still insufficient to defray its current expenditure.It is also burdened with a debt, while the want of books, of apparatus, and of suitable accommodation, is severely felt.So great indeed has been the pecuniary pressure, that the Governors have been lately obliged to incur a personal liability to the amount of £1000, to meet the existing deficiencies and to prevent the diminution of the present means of instruction.They have done this under a deep conviction that any check on the progress of the University would be most disastrous, and is to be avoided at all risks.u The embarrassment under which the Institution now labors, arises from an unexpected degree of success.Its rapid growth is so far beyond what could have been reasonably hoped for, that it has become exceedingly difficult to make its financial 'means keep pace with its extending usefulness; and the difficulty is increased by the necessity which this growth imposes, of erecting within a short period of time a new College Hall.For relief under these circumstances, your memorialists can only Iook to your Excellency and tho Provincial Parliament.The grant of an aid of £5000 for this year, to be applied toward the payment of the debt and in the erection of "a new building, and of a sum of £2000 yearly, afterwards, would enable them to meet the necessary expenditure and to carry on with efficiency the business of the University on its present footing.But they are desirous of urging in an especial manner upon your Excellency’s attention that provision ought also to be made for Uie future enlargement of its operations to meet the wants of an increasing population, by the establishment of a permanent fund, And they respectfully suggest that this object seems likely to lie most easily and effectually attained by an appropriation of a sufficient portion of the public lands of the Province., *• Your memorialists feel that their application for assistance in both these forms, ought to be favorably received upon very broad grounds of public interest, anti for the following special rea^ons^.First,—The late Mr.McGill undoubtedly made his bequest under the expectation and implied, if not direct promise that a further and sufficient endowment would be made by Royal authority .or by the Provincial Government.c >j I dfivr final non of bud li esillujiflib odt sti His endowment was long anterior to the establishment ot any protestant college in the province, and still is theionly one made in it tor that purpose.Sinee that time hundreds of thousands of pounds have beou bestowed by annual grants on other EdttcaUoual Institut pps in Lower Canada.‘ While,-ruUpper Canada, several universities have been founded, alt of tbetn partioipating more or less in the grants of public monev.One of them, the University of Toronto,- enjoys an endowment of 226,201 acres of land conferred by Royal grant in 1828, from which a Film exceeding £203,883 has,been already derived, and in addition tu this by various grants, between that year and the year 1855, with 63,805 .r l .1 I.; -1.1., J PER ito.l nnrl line n1on ropoivoil on nn acres of land, which has yielded £55,434, and has also received an an-, which still continues.Yet no permanent provision it received, during many years, for the college connected with it, arrant of £1,111.The Upper Canada College, established it» 1832, was endowed nual grant of