round both magnetic poles. The most general opinion seems to be
that they are illuminations of the lines of force which undoubtedly
circulate round our earth. At all events, the corona forms itself round
the magnetic poles, and its lines correspond to the earth's magnetic
field. Displays of aurorae are almost always accompanied by magnetic
storms, which so much affect our telegraph instruments, although the
latter may occur when there is no visible aurora. An artificial aurora
was produced by electrical means by Professor Lindstroem, in 67 deg. north
latitude, which was found to exhibit the spectrum of the true aurora.
You will find all information respecting the "Zodiacal light" in
"Guillemin on the Heavens."

C. H. C.--No examinations are required for teachers in high schools; but
of course preference is always given to those who have passed
examinations, and they obtain better salaries. The senior or the higher
Cambridge examinations for women would be the best, and would ensure a
good position.

MISCELLANEOUS.

MARIE.--Your having given your parrot meat has given her a taste for raw
meat. Perhaps a chemist could suggest a wash or powder to shake in under
the feathers, that would taste bitter and disagreeable and yet prove
harmless. Possibly your bird is troubled with small vermin, which
irritate the skin and induce it to pick at the roots of the feathers.
Examine the skin and plumage. We have given a long recipe for destroying
the vermin in canaries.

TUM YUM.--You had better buy a little bottle of oil-gold and paint your
picture-frame with it. See our article, "Lissom Hands and Pretty Feet."

ERICA RAEBURN.--Your verses are not correctly written, but the
sentiments expressed are good. When you make an adverb of the word
"true" you should drop the final "e."

M. H. M.--Write or see a map-setter, such as Wyld, or any other of
those in or near Trafalgar-square and Charing Cross. The ways and means
of colouring and disposing of your maps will be explained to you by
these people.

PECKHAM RYE.--The poet Wordsworth had an only daughter, Dora, married to
Mr. Quillinan. She was burnt to death in 1847, and left two daughters.
The bishops are nephews of the poet.

PHARMACEUTICAL.--The word "Pharmacon" can be found in all Greek
lexicons. It is probably of Oriental extraction. It originally meant any
medicine taken internally or externally, and apparently its original
signification was good--or, at all events, not