Continental Monthly Volume 1 Issue 3 by Various

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Well--and why not?

Have you never heard of the clergyman who preached an entire
sermon on the slave-trade, and gave a detailed account of its
head-quarters, the kingdom of Abomi?

And why?

Merely that he might ring it into them bitterly, fiercely, with
this conclusion:

'My hearers, let us pray that this Abomi-Nation may be rooted out
from the face of the earth.'

That was so. _Consummatum est_.

No wonder we hear so much of the sufferings and sorrows of the Third
Estate--which is the editorial.

* * * * *

'Wine is _sometimes_ wine, but not very often in these days:' what it
very often is not when labelled 'Heidsick' and 'Rheims.' 'But then the
_cork_ proves it, you know,'--for, by a strange superstition, it is
assumed that when the cork is correct the wine is not less so; a theory
which is exploded by a revelation in the following by no means
Bacchanalian lyric:--

BOGUS CHAMPAGNE.

Fill up your glass with turnip-juice,
And let us swindled be;
Except in England's cloudy clime
Such trash you may not see.
With marble-dust and vitriol,
'Twill sparkle bright and foam,--
Who will not pledge me in a cup
Of champagne--made at home?

We do not heed the label fair
That's stuck upon the glass;
It's counterfeit,--an ugly cheat,
That takes in many an ass.
The cork is branded right, and we
Know that it once corked wine;
They give the hotel-waiters tin
To save the genuine!

Think of this when you next 'wish you had given the price of that last
bottle of champagne to the Tract Society,' as _Cecil Dreeme_ hath it.

* * * * *

One of the best repartees on record is that of WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON,
who, having been reproached with inconsistency for having taken from his
journal the old motto, 'The Constitution is a league with Death and a
covenant with Hell,' replied that 'when he hoisted that motto, he had no
idea _that either death or hell intended to secede_. Circumstances alter
cases, and definitions modify both. Slavery, it now appears, is death,
as every political economist claims, while the South is--the other
place.

* * * * *

The following is from one who was not 'well off for soap:'--

DEAR CONTINENTAL:

It was my fortune, some time ago, while traveling through the New
England States, to lose my trunk, on my way to a very thriving
manufacturing village. Arrived at the principal hotel a few
minutes before the dinner hour, I was shown up to my room, every
article of furniture in which sparkled with newness,--its carpet
shining like fireworks, curtains painfully stiff, and the air
redolent of novelty.

One article of furniture, which I took to be a cottage piano or
melodeon, turned out, on raising the lid, to be a wash-stand,
amply munitioned with water, towels, and a new piece of soap.
Having noticed that the article had never been used, and my own
being lost with my trunk, I determined to put it to its legitimate
destination.

I commenced rubbing it between my hands, immersing it in water,
passing it quickly from one hand to the other, and using all other
persuasive attempts to solve it into lather. Useless; it was
_un-lather-able_, and hearing the gong sound for dinner, I gave it
up as a hopeless job.

After dinner, in conversation with the landlord, he asked me how I
liked my room. I told him that it pleased me very well, and that I
had but one fault to find,--that was, that the soap in the
wash-stand was the hardest I had ever seen, and I believed it was
made of iron.

'Well,' said he, with a diabolical smile, 'it _is_ hard soap, and
it ort to be--it's iron-y--for it's Cast-Steel!'

* * * * *

The annexed may be read with profit by the charitable:--

H---- has never yet been known to give one cent in charity. A
Christian called on him, the other day, and begged him to give
something to a soup society.

'Ah-h-h!' said H., 'war times, now. Can't give anything.'

'The soup society is very poor, and would be thankful for the
_smallest sum_.'

'Would it?' said H., cheerfully. 'Why, then, twice one are two.
Good-morning.'

This, we presume, may be called figuring as a benefactor.

* * * * *

Our Arabic-studying friend has supplied us with a fresh batch of
oriental proverbs:--

'A monkey solicited hospitality from devils. "Young gentleman,"
they replied, "the house is quite empty of provisions."'

'Eat whatever thou likest, but dress as others do.'

'Like a needle, that clothes people, and is itself naked.'

'He who makes chaff of himself the cows will eat.'

'Give me wool to-day, and take sheep to-morrow.'

'He is high-minded but empty-bellied.'

'Easier to be broken than the house of a spider.'

'He descends like the foot of a crow, and ascends (like) the hoof
of a camel.'

But all yield in grim drollery to the last given:--

'There are no fans in hell.'

Which, as our friend declares, 'sounds as Western as Eastern.' Verily,
extremes meet.

* * * * *

Many of our exchanges have spoken of the series entitled 'Among the
Pines,' now publishing in this Magazine, as being written by FREDERICK
LAW OLMSTED. In justice to Mr. OLMSTED we would state that he is not the
author of the articles in question, and regret that the unauthorized
statement should have obtained such general credence.

A statement has also appeared in many journals declaring that the
literary matter of the CONTINENTAL MONTHLY is the same with that
published in the KNICKERBOCKER Magazine. We need not say that it is
_entirely false_, as any reader may ascertain for himself who will take
the pains to compare the two publications. Not one line has ever
appeared in common in the Magazines. The _Knickerbocker_ is printed and
PUBLISHED in New York, at No. 532 Broadway, the CONTINENTAL in Boston,
at No. 110 Tremont Street.

* * * * *

The editor of the CONTINENTAL begs leave to repeat that as the principal
object of the Magazine is to draw forth such views as may be practically
useful in the present crisis, its pages will always be open to
contributions even of a widely varying character, the only condition
being that they shall be written by friends of the Union. And we call
special attention to the fact that while holding firmly to our own
views, as set forth under the Editorial heading, we by no means profess
to endorse those of our contributors, but shall leave the reader to make
his own comments on these.

* * * * *

Readers will confer a favor by forwarding to us any pamphlets, secession
or Union, on the war, which they may be disposed to spare.

THE KNICKERBOCKER

FOR 1862.

In the beginning of the last year, when its present proprietors assumed
control of the Knickerbocker, they announced their determination to
spare no pains to place it in its true position as the leading
_literary_ Monthly in America. When rebellion had raised a successful
front, and its armies threatened the very existence of the Republic, it
was impossible to permit a magazine, which in its circulation reached
the best intellects in the land, to remain insensible or indifferent to
the dangers which threatened the Union. The proprietors accordingly gave
notice, that it would present in its pages, forcible expositions with
regard to the great question of the times,--_how to preserve the_ UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA _in their integrity and unity_. How far this pledge
has been redeemed the public must judge. It would, however, be mere
affectation to ignore the seal approbation which has been placed on
these efforts. The proprietors gratefully acknowledge this, and it has
led them to embark in a fresh undertaking, as already announced,--the
publication of the CONTINENTAL MONTHLY, devoted to Literature and
National Policy; in which magazine, those who have sympathized with the
political opinions recently set forth in the KNICKERBOCKER, will find
the same views more fully enforced and maintained by the ablest and most
energetic minds in America.

The KNICKERBOCKER, while it will continue firmly pledged to the cause of
the Union, will henceforth be more earnestly devoted to literature, and
will leave no effort untried to attain the highest excellence in those
departments of letters which it has adopted as specialties.

The January number commences its thirtieth year. With such antecedents
as it possesses, it seems unnecessary to make any especial pledges as to
its future, but it may not be amiss to say that it will be the aim of
its conductors to make it more and more deserving of the liberal support
it has hitherto received. The same eminent writers who have contributed
to it during the past year will continue to enrich its pages, and in
addition, contributions will appear from others of the highest
reputation, as well as from many rising authors. While it will, as
heretofore, cultivate the genial and humorous, it will also pay
assiduous attention to the higher departments of art and letters, and
give fresh and spirited articles on such biographical, historical,
scientific, and general subjects as are of especial interest to the
public.

In the January issue will commence a series of papers by CHARLES GODFREY
LELAND, entitled "SUNSHINE IN LETTERS," which will be found interesting
to scholars as well as to the general reader, and in an early number
will appear the first chapters of a NEW and INTERESTING NOVEL,
descriptive of American life and character.

According to the unanimous opinion of the American press, the
KNICKERBOCKER has been greatly improved during the past year, _and it is
certain that at no period of its long career did it ever attract more
attention or approbation_. Confident of their enterprise and ability,
the proprietors are determined that it shall be still more eminent in
excellence, containing all that is best of the old, and being
continually enlivened by what is most brilliant of the new.

TERMS.--Three dollars a year, in advance. Two copies for Four Dollars
and fifty cents. Three copies for Six dollars. Subscribers remitting
Three Dollars will receive as a premium, (post-paid,) a copy of Richard
B. Kimball's great work, "THE REVELATIONS OF WALL STREET," to be
published by G.P. Putnam, early in February next, (price $1.)
Subscribers remitting Four Dollars will receive the KNICKERBOCKER and
the CONTINENTAL MONTHLY for one year. As but one edition of each number
of the Knickerbocker is printed, those desirous of commencing with the
volume should subscribe at once.

The publisher, appreciating the importance of literature to the soldier
on duty, will send a copy _gratis_, during the continuance of the war,
to any regiment in active service, on application being made by its
Colonel or Chaplain. Subscriptions will also be received from those
desiring it sent to soldiers in the ranks at _half price_, but in such
cases it must be mailed from the office of publication.

J.R. GILMORE, 532 Broadway, New York.

C.T. EVANS, General Agent, 532 Broadway, New York.

All communications and contributions, intended for the Editorial
department, should be addressed to CHARLES G. LELAND, Editor of the
"Knickerbocker," care of C.T. EVANS, 532 Broadway, New York.

Newspapers copying the above and giving the Magazine monthly notices,
will be entitled to an exchange.

PROSPECTUS OF The Continental Monthly

* * * * *

There are periods in the world's history marked by extraordinary and
violent crises, sudden as the breaking forth of a volcano, or the
bursting of a storm on the ocean. These crimes sweep away in a moment
the landmarks of generations. They call out fresh talent, and give to
the old a new direction. It is then that new ideas are born, new
theories developed. Such periods demand fresh exponents, and new men for
expounders.

This Continent has lately been convulsed by an upheaving so sudden and
terrible that the relations of all men and all classes to each other are
violently disturbed, and people look about for the elements with which
to sway the storm and direct the whirlwind. Just at present, we do not
know what all this is to bring forth; but we do know that great results
MUST flow from such extraordinary commotions.

At a juncture so solemn and so important, there is a special need that
the intellectual force of the country should be active and efficient. It
is a time for great minds to speak their thoughts boldly, and to take
position as the advance guard. To this end, there is a special want
unsupplied. It is that of an Independent Magazine, which shall be open
to the first intellects of the land, and which shall treat the issues
presented, and to be presented to the country, in a tone no way tempered
by partisanship, or influenced by fear, favor, or the hope of reward;
which shall seize and grapple with the momentous subjects that the
present disturbed state of affairs heave to the surface, and which CAN
NOT be laid aside or neglected.

To meet this want, the undersigned have commenced, under the editorial
charge of CHARLES GODFREY LELAND, the publication of a new Magazine,
devoted to Literature and National Policy.

In POLITICS, it will advocate, with all the force at its command,
measures best adapted to preserve the oneness and integrity of these
United States. It will never yield to the idea of any disruption of this
Republic, peaceably or otherwise; and it will discuss with honesty and
impartiality what must be done to save it. In this department, some of
the most eminent statesmen of the time will contribute regularly to its
pages.

In LITERATURE, it will be sustained by the best writers and ablest
thinkers of this country. Life, by RICHARD B. KIMBALL, ESQ., the very
popular author of "The Revelations of Wall Street," "St. Leger," &c. A
series of papers by HON. HORACE GREELEY, embodying the distinguished
author's observations on the growth and development of the Great West. A
series of articles by the author of "Through the Cotton States,"
containing the result of an extended tour in the seaboard Slave States,
just prior to the breaking out of the war, and presenting a startling
and truthful picture of the real condition of that region. No pains will
be spared to render the literary attractions of the CONTINENTAL both
brilliant and substantial. The lyrical or descriptive talents of the
most eminent literati have been promised to its pages; and nothing will
be admitted which will not be distinguished by marked energy,
originality, and solid strength. Avoiding every influence or association
partaking of clique or coterie, it will be open to all contributions of
real merit, even from writers differing materially in their views; the
only limitation required being that of devotion to the Union, and the
only standard of acceptance that of intrinsic excellence.

The EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT will embrace, in addition to vigorous and
fearless comments on the events of the times, genial gossip with the
reader on all current topics, and also devote abundant space to those
racy specimens of American wit and humor, without which there can be no
perfect exposition of our national character. Among those who will
contribute regularly to this department may be mentioned the name of
CHARLES F. BROWNE ("Artemus Ward"), from whom we have promised an
entirely new and original series of SKETCHES OF WESTERN LIFE.

The CONTINENTAL will be liberal and progressive, without yielding to
chimeras and hopes beyond the grasp of the age; and it will endeavor to
reflect the feelings and interests of the American people, and to
illustrate both their serious and humorous peculiarities. In short, no
pains will be spared to make it the REPRESENTATIVE MAGAZINE of the time.

TERMS:--Three Dollars per year, in advance (postage paid by the
Publishers;) Two Copies for Five Dollars; Three Copies for Six Dollars,
(postage unpaid); Eleven copies for Twenty Dollars, (postage unpaid).
Single numbers can be procured of any News-dealer in the United States.
The KNICKERBOCKER MAGAZINE and the CONTINENTAL MONTHLY will be furnished
for one year at FOUR DOLLARS.

Appreciating the importance of literature to the soldier on duty, the
publisher will send the CONTINENTAL, _gratis_, to any regiment in active
service, on application being made by its Colonel or Chaplain; he will
also receive subscriptions from those desiring to furnish it to soldiers
in the ranks at half the regular price; but in such cases it must be
mailed from the office of publication.

J.R. GILMORE, 110 Tremont Street, Boston.

CHARLES T. EVANS, at G.P. PUTNAM'S, 532 Broadway, New York, is
authorized to receive Subscriptions in that City.

N.B.--Newspapers publishing this Prospectus, and giving the CONTINENTAL
monthly notices, will be entitled to an exchange.

FOOTNOTES:

[A] _Journey in the Back Country_. By Frederick Law Olmsted.

[B] The Milwaukee, Wisconsin, _Sentinel_, of June 3, contained a
confirmation of these statements in regard to Northern Alabama. A
gentleman returned from 'a prolonged tour through the cotton States'
communicated a narrative, which demonstrated that the people of
Huntsville and vicinity were very hostile to secession in January, that
'at Athens the stars and stripes floated over the court house long after
the State had enacted the farce of secession,' and that, even in May,
open opposition to secession existed '_in the mountain portion of
Alabama, a large tract of country, embracing about one-third of the
State, lying adjacent to and south of the Tennessee valley_.' The writer
added, 'IN THEIR MOUNTAIN FASTNESSES THEY DO NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THE
SOUTHERN CONFEDERACY, OR THE POWER OF ITS RULERS.'

[C] It is proved, by the great increase of the cotton crop during this
period, that the surplus increase of slaves was mainly composed of field
hands purchased in the border States.

[D] 'The Edwards Family;' page 11.

[E] 'If some learned philosopher who had been abroad, in giving an
account of the curious observations he had made in his travels, should
say he had been in _Terra del Fuego_, and there had seen an animal,
which he calls by a certain name, that begat and brought forth itself,
and yet had a sire and dam distinct from itself; that it had an appetite
and was hungry before it had a being; that his master, who led him and
governed by him, and driven by him where he pleased; that when he moved
he always took a step before the first step; that he went with his head
first, and yet always went tail foremost, and this though he had neither
head nor tail,' etc. etc.--_Freedom of the Will_, part 4.

[F] Sismondi's History of the French.

[G] Benoit, Hist. Rev. Edict of Nantes, book 7.

[H] Dr. Baird, vol. I. p. 174.

[I] Oxford town records.

[J] Vandenkemp's Alb. Rec. viii.

[K] Instances are frequent where Southern gentlemen form these
left-handed connections, and rear two sets of differently colored
children; but it is not often that the two families occupy the same
domicil. The only other case within my _personal_ knowledge was that of
the well-known President of the Bank of St. M----, at Columbia, Ga. That
gentleman, whose note ranked in Wall Street, when the writer was
acquainted with that locality, as 'A No. 1,' lived for fifteen years
with two 'wives' under one roof. One--an accomplished white woman, and
the mother of several children--did the honors of his table, and moved
with him in 'the best society;' the other--a beautiful quadroon, also
the mother of several children--filled the humbler office of nurse to
her own and the other's offspring.

In conversation with a well-known Southern gentleman, not long since, I
mentioned these two cases, and commented on them as a man educated with
New England ideas might be supposed to do. The gentleman admitted that
he knew of twenty such instances, and gravely defended the practice as
being infinitely more moral and respectable than _the more relation_
existing between masters and slaves.

[L] Among the things of which slavery has deprived the black is a
_name_. A slave has no family designation. It may be for that reason
that a high-sounding appellation is usually selected for the single one
he is allowed to appropriate.

[M] It is not now improper to broach this button ruse, because it was
recently discovered at the South and is guarded against.

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