It was worth double the sum he gave for it, as it was a sample cask of the pure article, which he and all who went to that cellar to purchase were to taste, as a criterion of the whole. When the article was sent home, after the bargain, another was always put in its stead. The poor merchant was thus deprived of his decoy till he could prepare a new one, at considerable cost. This time he made a poor bargain with the American Commodore, who used to tell his friends at Washington, when he treated them to it, that it was the best battle he ever fought, and he had seen sharp service in 1813.

STICK TO SOME ONE PURSUIT.

There cannot be a greater error than to be frequently changing one's business. If any man will look around and notice who has got rich and who has not, out of those he started in life with, he will find that the successful have generally stuck to some one pursuit.

Two lawyers, for example, begin to practice at the same time. One devotes his whole mind to his profession, lays in slowly a stock of legal learning, and waits patiently, it may be for years, till he gains an opportunity to show his superiority. The other, tiring of such slow work, dashes into politics. Generally, at the end of twenty years the latter will not be worth a penny, while the former will have a handsome practice, and count his tens of thousands in bank stock or mortgages.

Two clerks attain a majority simultaneously. One remains with his former employers, or at least in the same line of trade, at first on a small salary, then on a larger, until finally, if he is meritorious, he is taken into partnership. The other thinks it beneath him to fill a subordinate position, now that he has become a man, and accordingly starts in some other business on his own account, or undertakes for a new firm in the old line of trade. Where does he end? Often in insolvency, rarely in riches. To this every merchant can testify.

A young man is bred a mechanic. He acquires a distaste for his trade, however, thinks it is a tedious way to get ahead, and sets out for the West or California. But, in most cases, the same restless, discontented, and speculative spirit, which carried him away at first, renders continued application at any one place irksome to him; and so he goes wandering about the world, a sort of semi-civilized Arab, really a vagrant in character, and sure to die insolvent. Meantime his fellow-apprentice, who has stayed at home, practicing economy, and working steadily at his trade, has grown comfortable in his circumstances, and is even perhaps a citizen of mark.

There are men of ability, in every walk of life, who are notorious for never getting along. Usually, it is because they never stick to any one business. Just when they have mastered one pursuit, and are on the point of making money, they change it for another, which they do not understand; and, in a little while, what little they are worth is lost forever. We know scores of such persons. Go where you will, you will generally find that the men who have failed in life are those who never stuck to one thing long.

FACTS ABOUT CUBA TOBACCO AND CIGARS.

A late Havana circular says the " Vuelto Abajo" leaf, which goes into the fabric of our best cigars, and of which the choice selections are rarely shipped, there being no market which can make profitable returns for it, averages, for selections of the several classes, $100 to $125 per bale, and the quantity of really choice leaf is so small in proportion to the whole crop made, that this sale is maintained from year to year. The bale or ceroon of Vuelta Abajo weighs from 70 to 90 pounds, but in making contracts

it is never weighed—each one making his own estimate, as the price per bale is fixed -selections of what are termed "1sts," if to be purchased separately, would cost $120 to $160 per bale-and lower qualities, classed "2ds" and "3ds," from $90 to $150 per bale. The Windward leaf, or the most common tobacco of island culture, is always weighed and contracted for by actual weight, although put up in the same class of packages as the fine leaf. This goods, of inferior quality, is frequently purchased at from $4 to $5 per 100 pounds, from the planter directly; and much of it is shipped to the United States and Germany, where it is Cuba leaf at any rate. Cigars are infinite almost in variety, but of reputable factories can be purchased from $12 to $70 per thousand. Three or four factories that rule the taste of the smoking world are arbitrary in their tariffs, predicated upon long-established fame, and they permit no fluctuations. In the last week there were shipped hence to all quarters of the world, 2,234,500 cigars and 155,888 pounds of leaf tobacco; and this year, to date, 178,396,750 cigars and 4,812,254 pounds leaf tobacco; of which, during the week, to the United States, 858,000 cigars and 64,445 pounds leaf tobacco; and this year, to date, 81,156,250 cigars and 1,371,719 pounds of leaf tobacco.

NEW YORK COTTON MARKET FOR THE MONTH ENDING OCTOBER 26. PREPARED FOR THE MERCHANTS' MAGAZINE BY UHLHORN & FREDERICKSON, BROKERS, NEW YORK.

A downward tendency in price has existed throughout the entire month, and since the close of our last monthly report (September 21st) the decline is fully one cent to one-and-a-quarter cents per pound on all grades. This rapid retrograde movement in price was not anticipated, notwithstanding the very favorable condition of the maturing crop and excessive receipts at the South, but is caused by the difficulties attending our largest customer-Great Britain. The present commercial embarrassment of both England and France seems probable to be further extended; and to save her gold, the Bank of England has advanced the rate of discount two per cent during the past month; while France, to save her credit, has purchased largely of gold with her capital. The fall of Sebastopol was looked upon by many as likely to be the last act in the bloody tragedy played by the European victors, and that peace, with its attendant security, would again take the place of insecurity, loss of life, and waste of money. A continuation of the war to an indefinite period seems now certain, and the vast drain of material required to carry it on begins to affect most seriously the course of trade both in Europe and America, and a dull state of trade in Manchester needs no telegraph to inform the Southern planter of the fact. The decline in the Liverpool market during the past month has been d. to d. per pound, while the stock on hand on the 5th of October is represented to be only 518,960 bales, against 795,700 bales same date 1854. The consumption since January 1st is put down at 1,618,380 bales, against 1,423,900 bales for same time in 1854. Messrs. Du Fay & Co., of Manchester, in their Trade Report for October, observe that "the fact is incontrovertible, that our stocks—with the exception of goods suitable for India—are light, and that firm prices are maintained for articles which have to be manufactured expressly for particular purposes. Our market is therefore a healthy one," &c. Yet notwithstanding the above statement of the consumption, stocks, and course of trade in the manufacturing districts, a monetary distress seems inevitable, and a lack of confidence is observable which renders commercial operations embarrassing.

The transactions in this market during the month amount to 22,500 bales; of which our own manufacturers have taken 11,000 bales, the balance being taken for export on orders and under advances. The month closes with a very moderate demand at prices in favor of buyers, and a small stock, which alone prevents a greater decline than that quoted above.

CROP.

Up to date we are without any accounts of a killing frost, and the prospects for a yield exceeding that of any former period are generally admitted. The quality of the new crop is certainly far above an average in all particulars. The excess in rereceipts now amounts to 163,000 bales.

For the week ending September 28th there was much disposition on the part of holders to sell; buyers, however, were not found at the rates asked, and the week closed with sales of 4,500 bales, at the following quotations:

PRICES ADOPTED SEPTEMBER 28TH FOR THE FOLLOWING QUALITIES:

The quotations for the week ending October 5th were reduced c. to c. per pound on sales of 5,500 bales, principally for export; the drouth at the Eastward still continuing, the demand for the home trade was small. The market closed steady at the following rates:

PRICES ADOPTED OCTOBER 5TH FOR THE FOLLOWING QUALITIES:

The sales for the week ensuing did not exceed 4,500 bales, at a decline of c. per pound. The foreign advices were unfavorable, and receipts at the South large; freights also advanced, in consequence of large quantities of grain going forward; and money being more in demand, exchange was not in favor of shipments. The views of holders were beyond those of buyers. One-half of the week's operations were for home use. The following represented the asking rates:

PRICES ADOPTED OCTOBER 12TH FOR THE FOLLOWING QUALITIES:

Our market for the week ending October 19th was extremely heavy, at fe. to je. decline on some grades. The sales did not exceed 4,000 bales; one-half for home use. The foreign orders were generally at a lower limit, and but little disposition was evinced to operate at any price. The weather at the South continuing favorable for maturing the crop, many concluded to wait for the "good time coming." The market closed heavy at the following:

PRICES ADOPTED OCTOBER 19TH FOR THE FOLLOWING QUALITIES:

The sales for the week closing at date are estimated at 4,000 bales, the market under the Africa's accounts being much depressed. Southern markets also show a falling off in price; and our small stock here alone prevents a greater reduction than c. to c. per pound for the week, the market closing in such an unsettled condition that we suspend quotations.

THE BOOK TRADE.

1.-The Annals of San Francisco; containing a Summary of the History of the first Discovery, Settlement, Progress, and Present Condition of California, and a Complete History of all the Important Events connected with its Great City. To which are added Biographical Memoirs of some prominent Citizens. By FRANK SOULE, JOHN H. GIHON, and JAMES NISBET. 8vo., pp. 824. New York: D. Appleton & Co.

The annals of San Francisco, its rise and wonderful progress, and the summary of Californian history, the account of the early English bucaneers, or more respectably termed privateers, (for they sailed under formal license from their government,) such as Sir Francis Drake, Cavendish, and others, who visited California in the sixteenth century, the account of the early missions, and the other matter which makes up this volume, both from its character and the ability, taste, and judgment which the trio of authors have displayed in its production, render it a work which no student of history can afford to be deprived, and one which is largely interesting to the general reader. The biographical sketches in the latter part of the volume embrace the names of the different Mayors of the city, besides Thomas O. Larkin, General John N. Sutter, Edward Gilbert, Colonel Stevenson, Senator Gwin, and several others more or less intimately connected with the history of California. The work is illustrated with one hundred and fifty fine engravings, is mechanically handsome, and will undoubtedly earn a large circulation.

2.-Historical Collections of Georgia; containing the most Interesting Facts, Traditions, Biographical Sketches, Anecdotes, etc., relating to its History and Antiquities, from its first Settlement to the Present Time. Third Edition. By the Rev. GEORGE WHITE, M. A. 8vo., pp. 729. New York: Pudney & Russell.

Much labor has been expended on this work, which is one of rare interest to the residents of sunny Georgia and her sons wherever living. It is a work which will furnish a large amount of matter, precious to the future historian of that State, and forms, like the work on New Hampshire, lately noticed in these pages, a contribution to the history of the whole country. The book is compiled from official documents, original records, and the oral traditions of some of the " oldest inhabitants." It is illustrated by nearly one hundred engravings, including public buildings, relics of antiquity, historic localities, natural scenery, and portraits of eminent men, of which the Empire State of the South" has not a few, who were born or lived within her limits. The name of John Forsyth, her eminent jurist and representative in the National Councils, sheds luster upon the nation. We have not space now in this place to speak further of her distinguished men. A brief sketch accompanies each portrait. Mr. White, the reverend author of this work, published a work on the statistics of Georgia, which was favorably received.

3.-Carrie Emerson; or Life at Cliftonville. By Mrs. C. A. HAYDEN. 12mo., pp. 360. Boston: James French & Co.

nace.

Here is a work by that well-known authoress, who has so long delighted many readers by her sparkling tales in our popular periodicals. It cannot be doubted that Carrie Emerson will meet with a ready sale, and give to the gifted and talented writer that due credit which such a work should. It shows, in lively coloring, the alas too frequent manner of village gossip, so often fatal in its consequences. It delineates, with a purity of thought and expression seldom equaled, the character of one who, though much slandered and abused, came out pure, like metals from the melting furThe character of Carrie Emerson is a fine one and quite life like, and we heartily commend her sentiments to the careful perusal of every one, especially let it be read by those who are apt to "speak ill of a neighbor, thinking no real harm." The characters are generally to the point and beautifully portrayed, while an exalted tone pervades the whole, and blends in one compass many and various dispositions. Let no family be without this book, but let every mother present a copy to her daughter, telling her to beware of the faults it speaks of, while she copies with earnestness all the good it contains. It is a story of thrilling interest, that will be read extensively, and cannot fail to please for its highly moral tone and truthful delineation.

4.-Harpers' Classical Library. The Works of Horace.

Translated literally into English prose. By C. SMART, A. M., of Pembroke College, Cambridge. A New Edition revised, with a copious selection of notes. By THEODORE ALOIS BUCKLEY, B. A., of Christ Church. 12mo., pp. 325.

5.-The Works of Virgil. Translated literally into English prose, with Notes by Davidson. A New Edition, revised with additional Notes. By THEODORE ALOIS BUCKLEY. 12mo., pp. 306. New York: Harper & Brothers.

The two volumes, the titles of which are quoted above, are reprints from Bohn's Classical Library, published in London. The learned editor has, in the translation of Horace, given a closer rendering of the Latin than Smart. We are informed that the text of Orelli has been generally followed. Useful annotations, ancient and modern, of various commentators, and several quotations from Hurd on the Ars Poetica, have been introduced. This edition of the works of the great Roman lyric poet and satirist is a desideratum to the student, whether young or advanced. In the edition of Virgil the trauslation of Davidson has undergone revision and alteration; there is closer accuracy in translation, and the construction is more strictly adhered to. The translation has been compared with the text of Wagner, and with the principal commentaries. We notice that in both these volumes the English edition has freely used the laborious researches and learning of Dr. Anthon, who has accomplished so much for classical literature in the production of most excellent text and other books for our schools and colleges.

6.-The Life of the Right Honorable John Philpot Curran. By his Son. With Additions and Annotations by Dr. Shelton Mackenzie, Editor of "Sheil's Sketches of the Irish Bar." Second Edition. 12mo., pp. 604. New York: J. S. Redfield. It is admitted that John Philpot Curran, for many years the most brilliant, eloquent, and successful member of the Irish bar, was also one of the few real patriots at a time when treachery and cowardice united to destroy the independence of Ireland. To this hour he is remembered as one of the most witty men of his time. Dr. Shelton Mackenzie has taken the life of Curran by his son, published in 1819, and added greatly to its value, interest, and completeness, by incorporating a great deal of new and sterling matter on the text, by adding a variety of explanatory notes, and by giving an appendix containing ample specimens of Irish wit. There also is an original and characteristic portrait of Curran. Altogether, this work is extremely readable, and while it amuses, also gives a striking and correct account of public affairs in Ireland during the last twenty years of the last century.

7.-Bits of Blarney. By Dr. SHELTON MACKENZIE.

J. S. Redfield.

12mo., pp. 450. New York:

Dr. Shelton Mackenzie, editor of the "Noctes Ambrosiana" and several other works, is author of this volume, which may be described as a lively melange of Irish subjects, in which gayety and gravity alternate. It consists of Irish stories and legends, eccentric characters, and sketches of two eminent publicists-Henry Grattan and Daniel O'Connell. The biography of the latter, full of personal anecdote, is about the best thing in the book. The author slily justifies its appearance therein, on the ground that O'Connell was “one of the greatest professors of 'blarney' these later days have seen or heard." A story called the Petrified Piper; another, containing the true history of Captain Rock; the amusing sketch of Father Prout, including a very original sermon; and a spirit-stirring ballad, entitled the Geraldine, may also be mentioned as especially worthy of praise. Bits of Blarney will establish its author's character as a humorist, with great variety of information, and a wonderful recollection of events, persons, and places. It has already gone into a third edition. 8.-Native and Alien. The Naturalization Laws of the United States; also a Synopsis of the Alien Laws of all the States, together with the Forms for Naturalization, Important Decisions, General Remarks on the subject, Historical, Past, and Present &c., &c. By a MEMBER OF THE BAR. To which is added the Constitution of the United States. 12mo., pp. 102. Rochester: D. M. Dewey.

This pamphlet, as the title would indicate, contains such matters as every citizen of the United States should be acquainted with. There are sometimes mistaken notions abroad among the many with regard to the rights of natives and aliens and the natu ralization laws. This work will correct such notions. A compilation of this kind, presented, as it is, in a form and at a price adapted to general circulation, should have a large sale.