dates must be included. The pupil should be accustomed to analyse a work like this, under such heads as-battles, chief persons, genealogies, leading events, &c., and should be well acquainted with the main particulars of each of them. With such a foundation, he would be admirably fitted in his special preparation (and a special preparation there must be) to enter into detail on the above points, from Gleig's School History, or to make research in larger works generally. In GEOGRAPHY, the pupil should well understand the definitions and leading principles of the science. He should have a thorough knowledge of the British Isles, if he be intended for the Customs; if not, of Europe, as well as an acquaintance with the position of not only the most important towns, but also a large number of minor ones, in all parts of the world. Further, he ought to be well acquainted with the course of rivers, the products of various countries, and their physical features. In this subject, the great point is accuracy, in opposition to the very prevalent idea that a place is "somewhere in India." It may be here remarked that, although the Government questions give scope to superior intelligence, their character is, necessarily, not of a high order; what they require is, a correct, distinct, and extensive knowledge of minor things, thus appealing much to the memory. This knowledge can be attained only by long continued and careful practice. ENGLISH COMPOSITION should be early, continuously, and systematically taught, for the Commissioners, with great reason, attach much importance to this subject. It is one which, if neglected at school, is attended with more than ordinary difficulties afterwards; in fact, adults, if they have no taste for the subject, find the obstacles so great, and the reward so distant, that they can seldom be induced to bestow that application which the study demands. What was said in respect to Arithmetic applies equally to Composition; the power of thinking and of classifying, which the former, properly taught, is so admirably calculated to produce, is perhaps the main cause of success in the latter. It is necessary to possess a good general knowledge, which can only be obtained by extensive reading and observation, accompanied with reflection. Lastly, there must be the ability to clothe ideas in clear and appropriate language. Perhaps no subject, taken singly, offers a more searching test than Composition. Not only does it display bad spelling and violations of Grammar, but it lays bare the mind to some extent, it distinguishes between mere reading and thoughtful reading. The preceding remarks, though especially addressed to those who intend their sons to fill Government situations, are in the main, applicable to adults who have already received their education. To such as have been carefully trained, the preparation for these examinations will present few difficulties; they will have to strengthen their weak points (whatever they may be), and become expert in their strong ones. They will have to go through such training as shall render them calm and self-possessed under the "pomp and circumstance" (if we may be permitted the expression) which attends examinations, and which so frequently hinders the candidate from displaying the knowledge he really possesses. This is to be acquired by placing him in circumstances as similar as possible to those in which he would be placed at an examination, and providing that assistance, for want of which he would fail in the hour of trial. To those whose education has been neglected, the impediments to success are by no means insignificant. Time and application and fair abilities are absolutely necessary. Without these the case is hopeless, but with them we are convinced, from experience, success may be commanded. The Civil Service Examinations, as has been before remarked, do not appeal to great talent, they do not interfere with University Excminations, but they have their own peculiar sphere, and must, ultimately, exercise a wide and improving influence on education generally. They will infuse into our teaching that element which at present seems wanting, thoroughness. Ours is an age of educational re-action; we are fast getting rid of the old system of individual teaching, with its loss of time, want of energy, and other defects. Still we must not forget, that it was under this system that England has attained her greatness, and reared her Nelsons, Pitts, and Newtons. There must in that system have been some principle of success, and that principle we believe to be thoroughness. By this we mean the power to perform what is aimed at, in any circumstances and under any form; in fact, the reproduction, in opposition to the mere reception, of ideas. The perfection of education seems now to be, to modify the science of the Present by the experience of the Past. REQUISITES FOR ENTERING THE CIVIL SERVICE. 1st. That the candidate be within the appointed limit of age. 2nd. That his health shall be generally satisfactory to the Commissioners. 3rd. That he pass the necessary examination.* 4th. That his moral character be satisfactory. It is important for parents and school-masters to know that the following subjects, with scarcely an exception, will provide for any examination in the Civil Service:-Orthography, History, Geography, Arithmetic, Latin, French, Précis, Book-keeping, Composition. |