nsists of a cube measuring two inches in each of
its dimensions. It is divided once vertically in its height, and three
times horizontally in its thickness, giving eight parallelopipeds or
bricks, each two inches long, one inch wide, and one half inch thick.

2. Like the third gift in form, size, material, and use, it is unlike
it in division. In the third gift the parts were like each other, and
like the whole, in the fourth they are like each other, but unlike the
whole.

3. The most important characteristics of the gift are:--

_a._ Approximation to surface in the symmetrical forms.

_b._ Greater height and greater extension, resulting in a
greater possible inclosure of space.

_c._ The illustration of two philosophical laws, viz., the
law of Equilibrium or Balance, and the law of Transmitted
Motion or Propagation of Force.

4. Progress is shown in this gift as follows:--

_a._ In the difficulty of dictation and manipulation arising
from the different character of the faces of the bricks, and
the many positions which each brick can assume.

_b._ In the necessity of perfect balance.

_c._ In a clearer illustration of dimension. In the third
gift the parts were equal in height, breadth, and thickness;
in the fourth they are unequal, and therefore each dimension
is emphasized.

As to progression, the increase of difficulty suits the increase in
the child's power of comprehension and receptivity. He is being
developed thus far, not by rapid changes in material or greater
exercise in number, but by practice with differing forms, each one
bringing with it new knowledge and experience. The organs of
perception are being constantly made to grow by exercise with
intention. We are forming the scientific eye which can detect
differences ever after at a glance.

5. The geometrical forms illustrated in this gift are:--

Solids. { Rectangular Parallelopipeds.
{ Square Prisms.

Planes. { Oblongs.
{ Squares.

6. The fourth gift presents contrasts of dimension and, as to the area
of its faces, contrasts of size and their mediation.

* * * * *

What the Child has gained from Third Gift.

The use of the third gift opened to the child quite a new world of
experiences, each one of which was pleasant and instructive, combining
all the delights of mental and physical activity, imagination,
practical indus