First published in 1918, "The Candle of Vision" by Irish author, poet, painter and mystic George William Russell, is a set of transcendent essays on Celtic mysticism. Known by his pen name Æ (which is short for Aeon), Russell was friends with many other figures of the Celtic renaissance of the early 20th century, including Y.B. Yeats, and James Stephens."The Candle of Vision" describes Russells' luminous excursions into the otherworld, including clairvoyant and prophetic visions, p...

"Provides a focused explanation of the reasons the Articles of Confederation, the nation's first federal constitution, went lurching toward collapse." —Jack Rakove, Pulitzer Prize winner, The Washington PostIn 1783, as the Revolutionary War came to a close, Alexander Hamilton resigned in disgust from the Continental Congress after it refused to consider a fundamental reform of the Articles of Confederation. Just four years later, that same government collap...

Among the Greeks and Romans of the classical age philosophy occupied the place taken by religion among ourselves. Their appeal was to reason not to revelation. To what, asks Cicero in his Offices, are we to look for training in virtue, if not to philosophy? Now, if truth is believed to rest upon authority it is natural that it should be impressed upon the mind from the earliest age, since the essential thing is that it should be believed, but a truth which makes its appeal to reason must b...

This early self-help volume, originally published in 1907 was written by the eminent American essayist and editor William George Jordan.Self Control - Its Kingship and Majesty is one of a number of religious books he wrote, which can be thought of as precursors to today’s self-help book.The contents include:.Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly ...

The real name of Mrs. Claus is "Santa Christina." For a long, long time, however, girls and boys (and parents and grandparents) never knew the real name of Mrs. Claus. They gave all their attention to her husband, Santa Claus, because he delivered toys to children who believe in Christmas. If people thought about Mrs. Claus, they imagined her "keeping house" at the North Pole, knitting in a rocking chair, baking cookies, or serving hot chocolate to Santa Claus and the Elves. But now, boys ...

One critic, who was kind enough to look at this book in manuscript, recommended me to abandon the design of Publishing it, on the ground that my logic was too like all other logics; another suggested to me to cut out a considerable amount of new matter. The latter advice I have followed; the former has encouraged me to hope that I shall not be considered guilty of wanton innovation. The few novelties which I have ventured to retain will, I trust, be regarded as legitimate extensions of rec...

Heretofore, children have always imagined "Mrs. Claus" baking cookies or knitting sweaters. They had no idea "Mrs. Claus" had a name of her own. Her real name is "Santa Christina." Now they learn she is an active outdoor sportswoman. She mushes about the North Pole with seven sled dogs. After she proves her dogs can run as fast as reindeer, Santa Christina agrees to help Santa Claus deliver Christmas toys. Delivering half the toys should make Santa Christina equally famous with her husband...

The essays in "The Potiphar Papers" are satirical in nature and often poke fun at various aspects of society, particularly the upper classes and the pretensions of the wealthy elite. The title character, Potiphar, is used as a symbol of an affluent man in the stories, and the essays provide witty and clever commentary on the social and cultural issues of the time.George William Curtis was known for his sharp wit and ability to satirize the society of his era. "The Potiphar Papers" is a ref...

The essays in "Prue and I" are written in a conversational style, often featuring Curtis's musings on nature, society, domestic life, friendship, and the human condition. The title essay, "Prue and I," serves as a narrative frame through which Curtis presents his thoughts and observations, ostensibly discussing life with his wife, Prue.Curtis's essays are characterized by their warmth, wit, and gentle humor, offering insights into everyday life, relationships, and the world around him. The...

Russell profiles several Prime Ministers, including William Ewart Gladstone, Benjamin Disraeli, and Lord Salisbury, whom he observed closely throughout his career. His anecdotes capture not only the public personas of these figures but also their quirks, convictions, and challenges. Russell’s nuanced portrayals emphasize both the strengths and flaws of these leaders, making them more relatable and accessible. His reflections extend beyond admiration, offering candid assessments of their ch...

Russell discusses his education, early career in the civil service, and eventual entry into politics, sharing insights into his role within the Liberal Party and his relationships with influential leaders such as William Ewart Gladstone and John Morley. His autobiography is filled with observations on the ethical and social issues facing Britain at the time, as well as the challenges and responsibilities of public service. Russell’s commentary reveals his wit, idealism, and commitment to s...

"Some Reptiles and Amphibians from Korea" is a scientific work that presents a comprehensive study of various reptile and amphibian species found in Korea. The authors, George William Byers, J. Knox Jones, and Robert G. Webb, contribute their expertise to document the biodiversity of these groups in the region, offering insights into their taxonomy, ecology, and distribution.The publication begins with an overview of the geographic and environmental contexts of Korea, detailing the habitat...