Page:The Waning of the Middle Ages (1924).djvu/379

UNSCIENTIFIC ESSAYS.
By F. WOOD JONES, M. B., D. Sc.
Elder Professor of Anatomy in the University of Adelaide. Author
of “Arboreal Man,” etc.
One Volume. Crown 8 vo. 6 s. net.

Professor Wood Jones is one of those men whose scientific attainments are combined with the possession of a charming literary style, and who, like Huxley, Drummond, and Fabre, have the art of writing round science in a way that the public can understand and enjoy. The pages of this volume are the products of his idle moments, some of them passed in London, some in Australia, and some upon a Coral Island in the Indian Ocean. The short essays have fascinating titles. Who would not envy the author his acquaintance with Fire-flies, with the Sea Serpent, with Wer Tigers? The first chapter on “Marvels” strikes the keynote of much that follows. Such essays as those on Evil Spirits, Moon-gazing, the Crab’s Secret, Oily Patches, Sights and Scents, show how varied and uncommon is the menu presented to us. In others, less intriguing headings such as Coco-nuts, Seals and Sea Birds, Coral Islands and Clay Pans serve as pegs on which to hang a wealth of original thought and suggestion. And all through the book runs a strong vein of sentiment and romance which adds to the subtle spell the author weaves for our enchantment.

ANTIQUES:
THEIR RESTORATION AND PRESERVATION.
By A. LUCAS, F. I. C.,
Chemist in the Department of Antiquities, Cairo.
Crown 8 vo. 6 s. net.

The preservation of antiquities is one of the most difficult problems that confronts collectors and curators of Museums and Art Galleries. Mr. Lucas has written a practical account, devoid of technicalities, so that his accumulated knowledge may be readily available to those interested in the subject. His practical experience has extended over a number of years, and he has recently been associated with Mr. Howard Carter in regard to the preservation of the numerous art treasures found in the Tomb of Tutankamen. He commences with a general account of methods of preservation and restoration, emphasizing the necessity of a preliminary examination as to the nature and composition of the object before applying any specific treatment. This is followed by an account of the best methods available for use with the different materials such as papyrus, paintings, bronzes, etc.—the materials being