HUSBAND AND WIFE; or, The Science of Human Development through Inherited Tendencies.  By the Author of the Parent’s Guide, etc.  Carleton, publisher, 413 Broadway, New York.

A suggestive book on an important subject.  The writer assumes that ’there are laws of hereditary transmission in the mental and moral, as well as the physical constitution.  Precisely what these laws are, she does not assume to state.  Such as are well known will however be helpful to all, and will facilitate the discovery of those yet hidden from us.  Women, who bear such an important part in parentage, should be the most clear-sighted students of nature in these things.  It is to woman that humanity must look for the abatement of many frightful evils, malformation, idiocy, insanity, &c., yet the principles pertaining to the knowledge of her own duties and powers, which ought to be a part of the instruction of every woman, are rarely placed before her.  Much that pertains to the same phenomena among the lower animals may properly constitute a part of her studies in natural history; but with the laws which govern the most momentous of all social effects—­the moral and mental constitution of individuals composing society—­with the gravest of possible results to herself—­the embodiment of power and weakness, capacity or incapacity, worth or worthlessness in her own offspring, she is forbidden all acquaintance.  Yet when she assumes the duties and responsibilities of maternity, such knowledge would be more valuable to her and to those dearest to her, than all of the treasures of the gold-bearing lands, if poured at her feet.’

The laws of hereditary transmission make the staple of this book.  It is written by a lady, and will commend itself to all interested in this subject.  Pearl, in the Scarlet Letter, and Elsie Venner, are artistic exemplifications of such disregarded truths.

VICTOR HUGO, by a Witness of his Life:  Madame HUGO.  Translated from the French, by CHARLES EDWIN WILBOUR, translator of ‘Les Miserables.’  Carleton, publisher, 413 Broadway, New York.

A biography of a remarkable man, written by a constant observer of his actions, almost a second self, can scarcely fail to prove interesting.  In this case the interest is increased by its close connection with a popular novel.  Indeed, the readers of ‘Les Miserables’ will be astonished to find what a flood of light is thrown upon that master work by this charming life-history of its author.  Marius is but a free variation of Victor Hugo himself.  In Joly, the old school-mate of the Pension Cordier, the author of Jean Valjean becomes closely acquainted with a real galley slave.  In short, the great romance is a part of the life of Victor Hugo, and cannot be fully understood without the biography—­its completion.’

LIFE AND TIMES OF SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON, BARONET.