Text: Edgar Allan Poe (?), Literary, Broadway Journal (New York), October 4, 1845, vol. 2, no. 13, p. ???, col. ?

[page 192, column 1, continued:]

A Latin Grammar, Comprising all the Rules and Observations necessary to an Accurate Knowledge of the Latin Classics. By James Ross, LL. D. With Latin Idioms and a New Prosody, and other Important Additions and Emendations, by N. C. Brooks, A. M., Professor of the Latin and Greek Languages, and Principal of the Latin High School, Baltimore. Philadelphia: Thos. Cowpperthwait & Co.

This is a judicious attempt on the part of Mr. Brooks (no less distinguished as an imaginative and graceful poet than by his classical acquirements) to restore the Latin Grammar of Dr. Ross to the position it once held in our Academies and Colleges. There can be no doubt that the book, in its original form, had many demerits, but we believe that these were far more than counterbalanced by merits not elsewhere to be found.

Mr. Brooks, in his edition, has omitted, as superfluous, the author's Remarks on English Articles, Nouns and Pronouns. In Orthography he has given the division of the letters, with more particular rules for their pronunciation. In Etymology he has made many new arrangements — placing, for example, under the head of “Gender,” its rules and exceptions: — these in the original work were interspersed at random, throughout. In Verbs, too, there are several important alterations and additions [column 2:] — deleo is conjugated in place of doceo; the latter, not being accurately regular. Mr. Brooks gives, also, (what is essential) an explanatian [[explanation]] of the nature of the Gerund and Supine. In Syntax the rules are much simplified and abridged, and some Remarks on Latin Idioms. Syntatical Arrangement and Analysis are, with great judgment, introduced. The Prosody of Ross is entirely remodelled, and for this portion of his labor, Mr. Brooks is entitled to very especial credit. His work, upon the whole, is one of high value, and we are happy to hear of its general introduction into schools.

We must do Mr. Brooks the justice of appending to this very imperfect notice, the opinion of a scholar whose good word is of weight; the letter annexed will speak for itself:

BALTIMORE, September 13, 1845.

Dear Sir — Having carefully examined Ross’ Latin Grammar, as revised and amended by you, I find the book every way equal, if not superior to any that art used in our schools. After a thorough perusal of your “Latin Lessons,” I take pleasure in acknowledging that never, even in my “fatherland,” have I read a book better calculated to facilitate the study of the Latin language. It should be in the hands of every beginner. Moreover, the many sentences it contains embracing facts in the history of my adopted country, must make it interesting not only to the student, but dear to every patriotic heart. Yours respectfully, A. Frietog, LL. D.

[Of the University of Gottingen.]

Of the “Latin Lessons” here alluded to, we spoke in a previous number. They are admirably adapted to their purpose. Messrs. Thomas Cowperthwait & Co., of Philadelphia, are the publishers.