ncipally derived from this source. Some of its
doctrines are doubtless aboriginal engrafted on the law of the
Empire; and it has been modified in some respects to reconcile it to
the religious dictates of Islam, just as the law of Pagan Rome was
modified after Christianity became the religion of the Empire. But
still Mahometan jurisprudence retains undeniably the lineaments of its
parentage.

This consideration places in a strong light the importance of the
study of Mahometan law. The increasing intimacy of our relations with
independent Mahometan states makes it of the utmost consequence that
we should entertain correct views of their opinions and institutions;
and no better key to the knowledge of both can be found than in the
historical study of their law. Again, we are called upon to legislate
and supply judges for British India, a large proportion of the
inhabitants of which are Mahometans. Even the Hindoos of the former
Mogul Empire have adopted many legal forms and doctrines from
their conquerors. A minute and accurate acquaintance with Mahometan
jurisprudence is an indispensable preliminary to judicious legislation
for British India. For these reasons, it could be wished that Mr.
Baillie, or some other equally accomplished laborer in that field,
would set himself to do for the "Futawa Alumgeeree" what Heineccius
and other modern civilians have done for the law-books of
Justinian--present the European public with an elegant and exact
abstract of its contents.

* * * * *

The following, from Southey's "Gridiron," now first published in his
Memoirs, ought to be set to music for the Beef-Steak Club:--

"Now the perfect Steak prepare!
Now the appointed rites begin!
Cut it from the pinguid rump.
Not too thick and not too thin;
Somewhat to the thick inclining,
Yet the thick and thin between,
That the gods, when they are dining,
May comment the golden mean.
Ne'er till now have they been blest
With a beef-steak daily drest:
Ne'er till this auspicious morn
When the Gridiron was born."

* * * * *

The most ignorant of the world's fools are those called "knowing
ones," a phrase satirical with the very glee of irony.

* * * * *

THE MYSTERIOUS COMPACT.

A FREE TRANSLATION FROM THE GERMAN.

PART II--CONCLUSION

(CONCLUDED FROM PAGE 192.)

Several weeks passed away. Edward spared no pains