A masterpiece of psychological evaluation of culture, religion, patriotism and rebellion, The Heart of Aryavarta is a penetrating investigation of a complex society at a critical time in its history. At the beginning of the 20th century, India's evolving nationalist movement, led by educated and cultured men such as Gandhi, was gaining strength. The British, whose colonial agencies had dominated Indian life for generations, were unable to fathom this desire for independence. Lawrence Dundas (1876-1961), a statesman and administrator, unlike most of his countrymen, did not contemptuously dismiss this movement, but committed himself to fully understanding the underlying economic and political factors that drove forward its systematic rejection of British rule. However, Dundas takes the discussion much further than politics. Using first-hand observation, as well as in-depth research, he articulates the positive goals of the Indian nationalists, which were founded on the idea of a return to a golden age of peace, wisdom, and fulfilment that existed before the arrival of the colonialists. He also sagaciously analyses the complex social and intellectual mechanisms that regulated, stifled or encouraged the attacks on the institutions of British colonial authority. These mechanisms were often outwardly expressed as religious concepts, some quite startling in their ingenuity. In fact, Dundas believed it was essential to understand these remarkable "myths," and he explains them at length, in a manner that a Westerner can easily comprehend. The author, an aide-de-camp and biographer of the famous Lord Curzon, was extremely unusual, in being a high-ranking political official in India with a scholarly interest in sociology, psychology, metaphysics and history. His studies resulted in a very original analysis of current affairs, social class, educational goals, morality and ethics. One might argue that in certain ways he resembled, and even surpassed, Carl Jung in his interpretation of Indian symbolism and cosmology. The Heart of Aryavarta is an ambitious work that is almost unique in its impressive ability to reconcile the mystical with the political. Despite his position and background, Dundas demonstrates that he has a profound knowledge of the deep-seated human need for social and cultural development free from external interference. He sympathises with the difficulties of the Indian people, and sincerely attempts to see their desire for autonomy from their perspective.

In lively prose, Albert Rhodes describes in The French at Home the allures and foibles of the Gallic race. Early in American history, before certain prejudices had set in, this diplomat living in France shows the varied facets of French life, in an age when traditional ideas still predominated. Using many charming examples, Rhodes touches on such subjects as chivalry, speech, epigrams, dress, food - all the things that make the French so distinctive. Rhodes not only describes the many ordinary activities he observed as a diplomat in France, but he also attempts to look deeply into the French character, into a nation's "personality," to perceive what makes them better or worse than Americans. This long neglected book brings to life the manners and customs of the French at a time when gallantry was still alive, and art and culture were held in high esteem. Rhodes's opportunities during a lengthy foreign residence in the consular and diplomatic service have been unusual; and the results of his observations are presented here in a form that could be considered both brilliant and instructive.

Although Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin is considered to be the book that most motivated a nation against slavery, it was not a work of fiction, but rather a sociological treatise that perhaps should take that honor. Hinton Rowan Helper, a slaveholder's son, wrote a well-researched and persuasive indictment of slavery, which not only became widely known but also had a major impact on American politics. In fact, it was instrumental in helping Abraham Lincoln win the Presidential election of 1860. However, this work, The Crisis of the American South, is complex, and it would be a mistake to look at it solely as anti-slavery propaganda. Helper, as other authors, argued that the basic injustices within the institution of slavery were a heinous offence against Christian principles. Yet, he went much further than others to document the harm that was actually being done to society by this institution. For example, Helper claimed that slavery was keeping the South backwards agriculturally and industrially, that it was destroying land prices, and hindering railroad building. In addition, he brought much needed attention to key cultural aspects that were usually ignored, such as the dependence of Southerners on the products of Northern industry, a lack of patriotism amongst the Southern elite, and the inability of the illiterate poor whites of the South to express their desires and aims. It is clear from his writing, that although Helper was sympathetic to the plight of blacks, he empathized most with the downtrodden whites of the South. Ultimately, Helper's larger goal was to provoke a type of socialist revolution, and the emancipation of slaves was only one aspect of this. Hinotn Rowan Helper (1829-1909) was born and raised in North Carolina, his father dying only a year after his birth. His family owned a few slaves, working them on a small farm. After a wasted three years in California during the "gold rush," he apparently contemplated a work that would address the economic problems in his own part of the country, the South. After much difficulty in publishing this book, Helper eventually achieved great success and popularity. He went on to live in South America, being appointed by President Lincoln as U.S. consul to Buenos Aires. Although respected as a scholar for his landmark anti-slavery work, his later writings became strident and polemical. Through various publications, he warned Americans about the threat that blacks and other non-white races posed for American society. His erstwhile supporters came to regard his post-war views with distaste, and they could not allow themselves to be associated with his program of nativism. Paul Dennis Sporer has edited many other works that contribute to the understanding of American society, such as End of an Era, by John Sergeant Wise, Is Secession Treason? by Albert Bledsoe, Newer Ideals of Peace, by Jane Addams, and Half a Century, by Jane Swisshelm.

How do the experiences of today's tourist compare with those of more than a century ago? Views of Old Europe demonstrates that there are interesting differences, and some surprising similarities, between the present day traveler and his early modern counterpart. It is a highly engaging and well-composed account of a two-year long journey in the 1840s, mostly on foot, through Britain, Ireland, Germany, Italy, France, Austria and Switzerland. The work was so popular, that the original edition was followed by many further printings in less than two years. This new edition, with a new preface and index, is based on a revised 1850 version. Although the book's talented young author, Bayard Taylor, went on to become a diplomat, essayist, and poet, his first employment afer leaving the family farm was as a printer's apprentice. The idealistic youth's cherished goal was to visit various European countries, to see first-hand the circumstances in which great culture and art arose. When Taylor's cousin asked him to be his companion on an extended journey through the Old World, Taylor, although without much money, found the opportunity too tempting to pass up. This memoir is multi-faceted. A multitude of perceptive observations about European society are set against the background of the journey narrative, which keeps moving at a deliberate but very pleasant pace. In these observations, Taylor strikes just the right balance between panorama and detail. The communities of that time, in all their charm, ebullience, traditional customs, and protectiveness, are brought into clear focus, facilitated by the copious notes kept by the author. Over the long course, a variety of beauties both natural and man-made were encountered: mountains, rivers, lakes and woods, as well as galleries, museums, churches, mansions, and cathedrals. But the tour had its share of challenges, including fatiguing hikes on back-roads, inadequate funds, and avoiding robbers. There was also a dearth of facilities conducive to material comfort and convenience, such as hotels, restaurants and shelters. Still, for Taylor, the advantages greatly outweighed the hardships, and fond reminiscences are evinced in his lovely prose.

A common lament among artists is that there are no books available that give specific, practical information about the procedures used by those creative geniuses collectively known as the Old Masters. The reason for this dearth is that such a work's author would have to possess extraordinarily wide-ranging expert knowledge and skills. Thomas Gullick's credentials indicate a great capability in taking up this challenge. He was a professional artist and scholar living in the mid-19th century, and so was in an exemplary position to discuss the intricacies of traditional techniques, and to compare modern systems to the styles and methods of previous eras. The book's exceptionally insightful combination of art history, aesthetic theory and erudite analysis made it highly regarded at the time, and it was given as a prize for outstanding achievement at the Royal College of Art in London. In this important new edition, with a newly compiled comprehensive index, Gullick authoritatively covers the aims and objectives the artist should have when interpreting reality, with stress laid on accuracy of detail, depth and transparency. Apropos of these principles, he skilfully discusses the surprisingly complex theories of art that existed in ancient times, including that of the Egyptians, Assyrians, Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans. Also, the spiritual features of Christian Medieval art are explored, as are the distinctive traits of the national schools of Italy, Germany, the Low Countries, and England. Of particular value to the working artist are the detailed sections dealing with technical issues of pre-modern forms of painting, many of which are poorly understood today, but that could, if used, greatly facilitate and expand the range of visual expression. The reader will learn about various physical processes such as encaustic, mosaic, tempera, fresco, oil and miniature painting. There is also a wealth of knowledge pertaining to implements, vehicles, varnishes, grounds, colours, subjectiles (i.e. supports), chemical formulations, the arrangement of the work-room and studio, and much more. Despite the sophisticated nature of the material, the author does not neglect the human dimension, for he cites pertinent facts, as well as witty anecdotes, from the life stories of many well-known and not so well-known artists.

The small town of Shelby is shaken by a brutal murder. In its remote outskirts, in a place called Dark Hollow, a man by the name of Etheridge was found beaten to death. John Scoville, a local inn-keeper, is convicted and executed for the crime. Many years later, "a woman in purple" shows up at the house of Ostrander, the respected judge who had sentenced Scoville to be executed. This mysterious woman turns out to be the wife of the convicted man, but she does not believe he was guilty. Deborah Scoville had to move away with her daughter and change her name to avoid the stigma of being the wife of a murderer. She visits the Judge, who is now a recluse, to challenge him on his verdict. He listens to her plea, but reaffirms his belief in Scoville's guilt. Having nowhere to go, Deborah is given the position of maid, which she secretly will use to obtain proof of her husband's innocence and the identity of the real killer. However, the initial evidence that Deborah collects points in troubling new directions. It forces disclosures about the Judge's errant and estranged son. More evidence emerges: peculiar marks on a walking stick, a knife, a tragic fire, mistaken identities, heated arguments between friends. All of this produces astonishing tension, culminating in bitter accusations and an exciting chase in upstate New York. Finally, all the circumstances of the crime are revealed. Judge Ostrander carries painful secrets from long ago, involving his son and his best friend, secrets that he hoped would never come to light. Dark Hollow is a compelling tale of hidden guilt, honor, and remorse.

General Robert E. Lee uttered to Albert Bledsoe these important words: "You have a great work to do; we all look to you for our vindication." The "work" Lee was referring to was in essence a Confederate political bible, that would clarify and explain the principles of self-determination upon which the Secession from the United States of America was based. Bledsoe was truly inspired to write a most deftly argued book defending the South's "unthinkable" action. This treatise, originally called Is Davis a Traitor?, is finally returned to print in a new edition, with a new preface and index. Albert Taylor Bledsoe (1809-1877) could be characterized as a traditionalist, an "unreconstructed Southerner," a fighter for various causes and a firm believer in the dangers of modernism and foreign influence. Yet he was no stooge working for the Southern "Brahmins"- he was an intelligent man of letters, soldier and educator, clergyman and lawyer, friend of wealthy men, social investigator, and seasoned traveler. Because of his intellectual perspicacity, and his connections to important leaders in the South, he became an apologist for the Southern Confederacy, and the pre-war Southern "mentality." Is Secession Treason? represents the pinnacle of Bledsoe's work. The centerpiece of his position is the critical distinction between the words "constitution" and "compact." Drawing from the texts of numerous political and philosophical documents, he presents ample justification for the assertion that the union of former colonies in the 1780s was voluntary and not perpetual, and their inherent independence was not taken away by their acceding to the "compact" that joined them. Limitation on the power of the central authority over the states was actually a key factor in the minds of the participants attending the Constitutional Convention, as the author so ably proves. In the pursuit of honesty and openness, Bledsoe strives to present both sides of the debate, and states with great clarity and force the positions of Webster, Madison, Jefferson, Hamilton, Calhoun and many others. After careful reflection and analysis, he arrives at two powerful conclusions: Secession was allowed under the Constitution, and the military attack by the Federal government on the Confederacy was illegal. So well-reasoned were his arguments, that his book proved to be a source of material for the defense of Jefferson Davis, President of the Southern Confederacy, from charges of treason. Despite Albert Bledsoe's unwavering devotion to his beloved homeland, one could say that his treatise is more of a fair and balanced treatment of Secession, than many recently published works covering the same subject.

Knowledge about the American social environment in the transitional period following the Civil War is still incomplete in certain respects. Robert Moton, a respected black educator and a tireless promoter of racial harmony, has left us a memoir that provides a unique and valuable perspective on the progress in civil rights from the 1860s to the 1920s. It also describes the critical changes in American culture that gave blacks the opportunity to attain a social rank never before envisioned. Moreover, Moton's memoir is a detailed record of a great "success story." Despite being born to former slaves, he was able to secure the assistance of many kind and generous benefactors. He recounts his own spectacular rise from extreme poverty, to a highly admired position of authority, giving us an "inside look" as to how such a transformation is possible. Moton reached his zenith when he took up the leadership of the Tuskegee Institute after Booker T. Washington, and he was the one chiefly responsible for establishing the famous hospital for black war veterans. This chronicle of his life is extremely interesting and instructive, and is especially inspirational for young people, showing them the value of education, discipline, hard work, and cooperation. One area that has exceptional potential for study is the human capacity for creative adaptation to challenges. In regard to this, Finding a Way Out provides much information about the methods blacks used to obtain schooling and jobs in an American society that promised freedom and opportunity, but that in reality still had many restraints and restrictions. On a more personal level, Finding a Way Out documents the manner in which a young black man, armed with little more than determination and confidence, could reach one of the highest rungs of the success ladder in the United States, despite the odds. Robert Moton (1867-1940) was born in Virginia to former slaves. He received excellent vocational and liberal arts instruction at the Hampton Institute, a school with a military form of discipline. Moton, like many other members of his race, was concerned that blacks would not be able to sufficiently prove to whites that they were indeed capable of taking up their places as productive citizens, thus justifying their emancipation. He was also troubled about the misunderstandings that arose due to cultural differences. Consequently, he used every opportunity to articulate the distinctive and positive attributes of the various races he encountered, including Native Americans, Europeans and Asians.

Mapping of animal genomes has generated huge databases and several new concepts and strategies, which are useful to elucidate origin, evolution and phylogeny. Genetic and physical maps of genomes further provide precise details on chromosomal location, function, expression and regulation of academically and economically important genes. The series Genome Mapping and Genomics in Animals provides comprehensive and up-to-date reviews on genomic research on a large variety of selected animal systems, contributed by leading scientists from around the world. Laboratory animals are those species that by accident of evolution, domestication and selective breeding are amenable to maintenance and study in a laboratory environment. Many of these species are studied as 'models' for the biology and pathology of humans. Laboratory animals included in this volume are sea-urchin, nematode worm, fruit fly, sea squirts, puffer fishes, medaka fish, African clawed frog, mouse and rat.

In the 15th century, a fabulous journey awaited those who could unlock the secrets of the Earth's geography. Beautifully written and emotionally compelling, 1492: Admiral of the Ocean-Sea tells of the famous adventures of Columbus and his men, who sailed into the almost mythical seas beyond the horizon in search of the "New World," in the hopes of attaining vast wealth and power. This brilliant book, by best-selling author Mary Johnston, traces the long route taken by explorers hoping to locate Asia. Based on their limited means and understanding of navigation, they struggle to find their position, while at the same time encountering many natural wonders and exotic peoples. Tensions build as they appear to become increasingly lost. Columbus and his crew begin to lose hope, until they finally receive the vindication of their bold vision. 1492: Admiral of the Ocean-Sea pays special attention to the conditions of the late 15th century period. It describes the competition between classes and ethnic groups in Spain, as well as the clashes that occurred when people from two very different cultures, native American and European, interact. These issues are not merely abstract, since we see them vividly through the eyes of a disenfranchised individual: a Christian sailor of Jewish background, who has been compelled to lead a secretive and solitary existence. The incidents of his life are brought to us in a handsome, elegant language, uncommon in the books of our day.

In the stifling jungles of a small South American country, Robert Clay works as a civil engineer at a mine. With two American assistants, he attempts to reap all the rewards found in this challenging environment. But he also has a secret history as a mercenary, fighting for whichever side will pay him the most. Clay finds himself in love with Alice Langham, the daughter of the wealthy American owner of the mine. His competition for Alice is Reggie King, who is also from an illustrious and powerful family. Together, these characters find themselves at the center of an explosive political situation, where a violent revolution is about to begin. All are caught up in the uprising, and must take whatever measures necessary to survive. But Clay and his companions see a way to make money and gain power in this most dangerous of enterprises. Soldiers of Fortune is a kind of novel that is not written anymore: men achieving recognition and honor by engaging in daring exploits in the midst of arms and warfare. The key to survival is personal commitment, and politics and patriotism are a thing of the past. Using an almost journalistic kind of writing, Davis is able to bring great realism to the story.

This is a book by pastor William Bacon that attempts to cover a wide range of issues that parents must confront in helping their children become responsible Christians. It takes the controversial position that corporeal punishment, although it should be avoided, must be used when children do not readily accept other forms of inducement to obey parental authority. Not everyone will agree with its premises, but it provides critical information on the justification for physical discipline. William Bacon believed in the concept of a household "absolute government"; the child must understand that ultimate law and justice rest with the parents, and refusal of requests by children cannot be tolerated. Bacon also believed in what we today would call behaviorism: that the human child, like other creatures, can only attain a productive life through guidance that is clear, steadfast, and goal-orientated. The natural tendency in man is to disobey, and if his tendencies are not checked, he will fall into moral ruin. Consequently, Bacon does not hesitate in condemning parents who are too lazy or too weak to adequately discipline their children. Discipline to him meant whatever it took to make children conform to their parents' requests. Although harsh treatment is distasteful, Bacon believes not only will this form of correction benefit society, but will also, according to his analysis of Biblical scripture, immeasurably help the child's soul.

This highly rewarding work goes back to a time when theological discussion was not considered "heavy." It contains an inspirational treatment of the subject of conversion, and sees faith as creating fresh possibilities that can lead to great accomplishments. In modest, inspiring, but still powerful language, it puts forward many important ideas using a sensible, logical plan that helps the individual interact with God in his new-found spiritual life. As the title suggests, The New Birth views the concept of conversion as a momentous, singular event. Austin Phelps discusses the subject in relation to the subjects of guilt, self-respect, ritual, laws, mysticism, regeneration, the power of truth, the role of the preacher, and personal responsibility. Phelps strikes just the right balance of advice, admonition, dogma and social commentary. His writing is almost poetic, yet it is also steady, careful, straightforward and compelling. Although Phelps saw great value in the spreading of ideas through preaching, he perceived this form of address as more than a lecture; indeed, it was a kind of conversation, where people could stop to think, ask questions, and proceed to learn further. The author understood that the profundities of Christianity could not be laid out in a simple sermon; they need to be expounded upon with a great diligence and earnestness, in direct language that does not trivialize, but still maintains the purity of the fundamental concept.

To find the fountain of youth - what would that entail, to live forever, to pass through many generations, without dying? Would it be a blessing or a curse? We are taken on an amazing journey, as the man originally known as Kroudhr, Vizier to the King Alexander, tells his rather bewildered American guest a bizarre story. When he was a high ranking official of the King's court centuries ago, Kroudhr secretly discovered the magical elixir that bestows immortality. He went on to experience many marvelous adventures over the succeeding generations. He also explains the various methods he used to conceal his unchanging physical condition. Unlike other personages in fantasy literature who have claimed immortality, Kroudhr did not go through a series of guises as the great composers, writers, government officials, and scientists of history. Instead, he assumed far more humble personas. However, from time to time he met, and even helped, geniuses and leaders with their work. This is an intelligent account of the practical issues of life without end on Earth: the advantages, the odd coincidences, the distorted view of human society. The Vizier of the Two-Horned Alexander focuses on the constantly unfolding situations, overlapping and shifting, that confront the man who cannot die. The author gives us a mature, cultured perspective on this most unusual character. This is a new edition of a long neglected masterpiece, which was first published in 1897. It contains a delightful array of fantasy elements, and is one of the best of its genre.

In this elegant drama, Anna Katharine Green, one of the greatest mystery writers of all time, weaves a narrative with her usual consummate skill, and portrays her characters with exceptional sympathy. On the New England seacoast, not far from Boston, lies a staid, picturesque village called Sutherlandtown. In these tranquil surroundings, Agatha Webb and her servant are found murdered. The task of unraveling the mystery begins at once, and suspicion points to a number of persons. Agatha herself had a tragic and troubled past. She suffered the loss of six of her children who died in infancy; some of the people of the village suspected her of complicity in these deaths, while others looked upon her as a victim. Adding to the complexity of the situation, a wealthy local man is being blackmailed by someone who believes that he is guilty of Agatha's murder. The solution of the puzzle is uncovered in an intensely dramatic court scene. In addition to the attraction of the mystery, there is a great love story. One of the detectives in the case, Caleb Sweetwater, was first introduced in a minor role in A Strange Disappearance (1880). Here, the details of his interesting life story are revealed, considerably fleshing out and developing his character. We learn that he was raised in Sutherland-town, maturing into a talented violinist, but constrained to supporting his mother with limited means. He relinquishes his musical career in order to become a detective. In this role he stands out as a trustworthy and conscientious young man, who volunteers his services to a patron in return for past consideration. Sweetwater becomes the hero by ultimately solving the crime in Agatha Webb. He appears again inseveral other Green novels as Gryce's assistant in the New York Police Department.

A young woman working as a domestic servant disappears from a wealthy household in New York City. The police investigating the disappearance have few clues, and the other servants working in the mansion, which is owned by a Mr. Blake, seem to know little about the woman in question. Did she leave voluntarily or was she kidnaped? The police suspect the well-to-do owner of the house, and conduct a surveillance of his activities. They realize the connections between the missing woman and Mr. Blake are closer than first thought. What then were the true relations between employer and servant? We learn that the woman had years earlier saved Mr. Blake's life, and this led to a secret liaison that became the motive for blackmail. This exciting story, set in the late 19th century, takes us from the highly privileged and sumptuous surroundings of Fifth Avenue, to the dangerous backstreets of downtown Manhattan, and into the forests and isolated cottages of upstate New York. After the shocking truth about the participants is revealed, the police move to prevent a murder. Part of their plan involves a young detective disguising himself as a consumptive French artist The author, Anna Katharine Green, excels in her ability to convincingly portray villains as well as heroes. In her dramas, characters struggle with lost opportunities, vengeful motives, hidden agendas, and complex family relationships. This was the second book written by Green after her famous Leavenworth Case, and was originally published in 1880 by New York firm, A.L. Burt.

Jane Addams was an important reformer whose work for peace, social justice and prosperity won her the Nobel Prize. She is most well-known for establishing in 1889 a reform residence called Hull House, located on the West Side of Chicago. She also supported the movement for women's suffrage and was instrumental in the founding of several key peace organizations. Her activism has become legendary, but she also wrote eleven books. Newer Ideals of Peace is perhaps her most important written work, now finally back in print in a new edition. Although originally published in 1907, it still is astonishingly relevant to our own time. In this book, Addams presents in a compelling and concise format, the problems that America faces in the interaction between industrialism, militarism and patriotism. She also discusses the dynamics of ethnicity and race, especially in an urban context. Moreover, she provides sober, realistic solutions to these difficulties. Her reputation is once again restored to its rightful place by the reissue of this profound and far-seeing work. It undoubtedly will enlighten a whole new generation about the limitations and failures of modern government.

Mapping of animal genomes has generated huge databases and several new concepts and strategies, which are useful to elucidate origin, evolution and phylogeny. Genetic and physical maps of genomes further provide precise details on chromosomal location, function, expression and regulation of academically and economically important genes. The series Genome Mapping and Genomics in Animals provides comprehensive and up-to-date reviews on genomic research on a large variety of selected animal systems, contributed by leading scientists from around the world. Laboratory animals are those species that by accident of evolution, domestication and selective breeding are amenable to maintenance and study in a laboratory environment. Many of these species are studied as 'models' for the biology and pathology of humans. Laboratory animals included in this volume are sea-urchin, nematode worm, fruit fly, sea squirts, puffer fishes, medaka fish, African clawed frog, mouse and rat.