From J. H. Durkee, Sandy Hill, N. Y.

We have used JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA in the Sandy Hill Union School for general reference during the past two years, and are highly pleased with the work. In many respects it is superior to Appletons', and the extremely low price at which it is now offered places it within the reach of many who heretofore have been unable to obtain it. The work contains so many excellent features that it is difficult to select any one for special comment. No library is complete without this valuable work, and I cheerfully recommend it to any who desire an easy, exact, and complete book of reference.

From E. D. Bosworth, Prin. Public Schools, Farmer City, Ill.

I like JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA above all others. After a careful examination and use of the work, I can heartily say that I believe the Publishers do not make a claim for their work that it does not deserve.

From J. Hervey Cook, a Prominent Scholar in N. Y. State.

The

I am pleased to add a word of commendation of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, but it needs no praise from me. names of its Editors and many Contributors are evidence of its superior merits. The work is scholarly, thorough, and comprehensive. I have looked it over with much care, and shall turn to it constantly in pursuit of valuable information in history, literature, and science. No other cyclopædia surpasses it in its accuracy, and it will have the favor alike of those employed in the practical affairs of life and the scholar. I have exchanged my Appletons' for JOHNSON'S.

From Rev. H. C. Haithcox, Pastor Lutheran Church, Lena, Ill.

I possess JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA complete, in half-Turkey. Am well pleased with it. Gave Appletons' (revised edition, 16 volumes, sheep, with index) for it. Do not regret the trade.

From L. H. Roberts, Esq., Brewster's, N. Y.

I wish now to state that I consider JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA the most complete compendium of universal knowledge with which I am acquainted; and so satisfied am I of this fact that I have exchanged Appletons' for it; and the more I examine it, the more I am convinced that it is superior in plan, in arrangement, in authority, in the amount and quality of talent employed in its construction and completion, in quantity and quality of matter, employing, as it does, the best talent in all its departments of this and foreign countries; in its comprehensive treatment of religion, law, biography, science; in all these, and in many other respects, it is superior to any work that has come under my observation. But considering, for the sake of argument (which is not admitted), that it is only equal in every respect, and not superior, to other like publications, the extremely low price at which it is sold ($48-about one-half the price of other works) is a convincing argument in its favor.

From Rev. Horace W. Byrnes, B. A., Brewster's, N. Y.

I have just re-examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA with considerable care and thoroughness. I made MY OWN EXAMINATION, and made it in comparison with two other competing cyclopædias. A number of very favorable features impressed me: 1. Its authoritative value. One need not "verify his references," as in most important subjects appended to the article is the signature of a specialist who can be accepted as authority in his department. One need not go behind the returns vouched for by Whedon, Stevens, Hodge, Schem, Schaff, Barnard, Chandler, Newberry, Dwight, Walker, and many other such names which frequently occur. 2. Thoroughness, both as regards the ground which ought to be covered by an encyclopædia and the method of treatment of subjects under the oversight of competent Editors of each department-geography, history, biography, philosophy, politics, theology; in fine, everything is thoroughly treated. 3. Nevertheless, a marked characteristic is its conciseness. Some one has kept saying to those Contributors and to those Editors, "Boil it down, gentlemen; boil it down." We pay for facts when we buy a cyclopædia, not for rhetoric; here we get the facts, but there is no sacrifice of anything of importance merely for brevity. 4. Convenience for reference in a high degree is given by means of italicised sub-headings and by cross-references. 5. It is, furthermore, essentially American. It was designed to meet the needs of the American public, and does so—well, I wish all the others did as well. 6. It is modern. The obsolete and obsolescent by contraction or exclusion make room for items of present interest in every department in biography, politics, religion; which we look for in vain in competing cyclopædias. 7. Economy is a great recommendation. All who can by any means afford to possess the work owe it to themselves, their families, and to their community to get it. It will be money in pocket, knowledge in the head, and power in hand.

From Rev. A. P. Botsford, Pastor of Presbyterian Church, Port Jervis, N. Y.

I have examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, now brought to the notice of this community, and can most cordially recommend it to any person needing such a work. There are several excellent features of this Cyclopædia which are marked by those whose judgment is well worth considering, which place the work in the foreground of all others of the kind. The articles may all be relied upon, having been written by the very best men in their own departments. A family having this work, and using it, will find an almost inexhaustible source of information on all subjects.

From Rev. James W. Hubbell, Danbury, Conn.

JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA I have used constantly, and can say that it is a very valuable work, not only for students and professional men, but especially so for young people and children in a course of study. It is invaluable in the family for constant reference on almost every point where full and reliable information is needed. I give this testimonial entirely unsolicited. In the interests of intelligence and education I wish there might be a set in every family.

From Hon. C. C. Conant, Greenfield, Mass.

I beg leave to say that I, having already gotten the last edition of Appletons' Cyclopedia, was at first adverse to buying JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, but upon making a comparison of the two works I was surprised and astonished to find how greatly superior was JOHNSON's work. I bought it at once, and now own both, and upon a continued comparison from the time I bought till now, as I use it day by day, I am more and more thoroughly convinced that JOHNSON's work is immensely superior to Appletons' or any other work of the kind I ever saw. I could not be induced to part with my JOHNSON'S for any price if I could not replace it. It is the gist and essence of a large library condensed into one cyclopædia, and so arranged that I can put my finger on any subject in an instant and get full, accurate, and reliable information. It wears well.

From Rev. Robert Aikman, Madison, N. J.

JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, beyond any that I know of, is both comprehensive and exact. I always find in it just the information which I want, and in a compact and readable shape; and this, it seems to me, is what an encyclopædia is for, rather than for ponderous and occult treatises, which are better sought for in volumes which a specialist only needs, and which sometimes only a specialist can understand. A great feature is that its most important articles are from the pens of acknowledged experts, who write from the standpoint of knowledge and sympathy. Perhaps this has most impressed me in the articles pertaining to my own profession, but this admirable feature pervades other departments than those of theology and biblical and religious literature. In the sketches of living celebrities-a delicate thing to handle-perhaps the work could not be much improved, since in general only the mere facts are given, while in regard to our own country and continent this encyclopædia is simply unequalled.

From Rev. A. J. Aubrey, Danbury, Conn.

Having carefully examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, I can say that without doubt it is the best work of the kind for popular use in this country. The money it costs cannot be put into more profitable books.

From Hon. David McAllister, Walton, N. Y.

After considerable examination of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, I take pleasure in commending it for special excellence in the following points: 1. Its wide range of articles, including many on important subjects not treated at all in other standard cyclopædias. 2. Its adaptation to general use, not attempting exhaustive treatment of scientific and other topics, yet giving a satisfactory presentation, with references for full and exhaustive investigation. 3. Its reliability, every possible means being employed to secure accurate statements of competent and responsible writers. 4. Above all other excellencies, in my estimation, is its thorough editing according to a definite standard. The importance of this, particularly in the treatment of all historical, political, and other questions coming within the sphere of ethics, is largely overlooked in rival works.

EXTRACTS-TESTIMONIALS AND COMPARISONS CONTINUED.

From W. C. Kountz, M. D., Meyersdale, Pa.

I have only examined critically the parts relating to medicine in JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and find they all embody the most recent developments. They are all written by men who stand very high in the profession, as an examination of the signatures will show. I consider the work a very valuable addition to a physician's library.

From W. S. Livengood, Esq., Elk Lick, Pa.

I find that JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is suited better to my wants than Appletons'. I do not regret the exchange I made with you.

From W. G. Burns, Esq., Meyersdale, Pa.

I have been one of those persons who had a mistaken idea that Appletons' Cyclopædia is the best one published; but when I came to compare JOHNSON'S with it, I liked JOHNSON's much the best, because (1st) of its greater convenience in handling and in reference; (24) all the more important articles are signed by the authors, and it is a great satisfaction to me to be able to give the authorities on everything that I may advance. I do not hesitate to advise any one to purchase it.

From Calvin U. Heilman, A. M., Elk Lick, Pa.

After an examination of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, having used Appletons' for a number of years, I came to the conclusion that for general use I would prefer the former.

From J. M. Schick, A. M., Meyersdale, Pa.

After using the Encyclopædia Britannica for nearly six years during the slow rate of its publication, I exchanged the volumes I had received for JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA. I began using the latter with much pleasure, for I had a complete and fully satisfactory work. Use has since made it more popular with me, and I feel no hesitancy in recommending it as superior for American and general purposes.

From Geo. Clinton Swallow, M.D., LL.D., Helena, Montana.

JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is the best work of the kind ever published in America. The old American Encyclopædia was an excellent work for the times. Appletons' has had a wide circulation, but it has very serious and fatal defects; in many departments, especially in science, the articles are by amateurs, and not reliable. In JOHNSON'S, on the contrary, the best men in the country were employed, even to the minutest details. When we have the Botany prepared by such men as Prof. Gray of Harvard, and the Geology by Prof. John Le Conte of the University of California, the Physical Geography by Prof. Arnold Guyot of Princeton, and the Political Science by Alexander H. Stephens of Georgia, and all the leading departments supervised by men equally eminent, there need be no fears about the work being up to the present state of human knowledge. Never were so many men who stand at the head of their departments of learning employed upon any one book as were engaged in the prepa ration of this magnificent work. Whoever buys it will have the best information on every important subject of human knowledge. The mechanical part of the work is in keeping with its contents. It is a library in itself, and should be in every intelligent family; and a family can scarcely be intelligent without a good cyclopædia.

From Cornelius Hedges, M. A., late Supt. Public Instruction for Territory of Montana. A cyclopædia is a condensed library, and of all the competitors for public favor in this productive field of combined skill, industry, and wealth, none stands higher in real merit than JOHNSON's, which is second to none in any respect, and easily leads all others in several important respects-such, for instance, as American biography. There is no slop-work by trade-writers about JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA. Every leading article bears the honest, open-faced guarantee of a responsible author. I own a set of Appletons' Cyclopædia which has cost me three times the regular price of JOHNSON'S, and is in no essential respect better, and in many greatly inferior. I should have no hesitation in advising any one in need of the best cyclopædia to buy JOHNSON'S. There are others more voluminous, but not so comprehensive after all. There are others also cheaper, many of them of great excellence, but, considering both quantity and quality, there is no cheaper work extant. It is hard to see how an intelligent man can keep house without a good cyclopædia; and any one, no matter how defective his early education, who will make daily and habitual use of his leisure in consulting such a work as JOHNSON'S CYCLOPEDIA will become a well-educated person. It will pay a hundred per cent, every year to the person who will own and use it.

From W. W. Wylie, Superintendent Public Instruction, Bozeman, Mont.

I have had for several years a set of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA in my library, and it gives me pleasure to indorse and recommend the work. It is all that its publishers claim it to be.

From Peter Koch, Cashier Gallatin Valley National Bank, Bozeman, Mont.

It affords me pleasure to state that I have had a set of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA in daily use for a number of years, and as a handy reference-book I deem it superior to any other work in the market. One rarely turns to it in vain. Many of the articles are short and concise-just what the busy man wants. It is especially full on American subjects, and the articles are mostly written by specialists of high authority in their several branches. If I could have but one cyclopædia, I would not hesitate a moment in choosing JOHNSON'S.

From Hon. H. D. Lathrop, the well-known Educator.

For ten years I have owned and used JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA. It lies upon the table in my school-room, and is in hourly use by pupils and teachers. I unhesitatingly assert that it is the best work of reference in the English language. It is comprehensive, concise, complete, and accurate. Whoever has it not needs it, and he who has it needs no other.

From Hon. ex-Governor William Bross, Chicago, Ill.

Having had in my library for some time JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, I find it a most valuable work. It is very comprehensive in scope and concise in statement. All special articles being written by leading authorities in their several fields, as law, medicine, history, the arts and sciences in general-in fact, in all the departments of knowledge-it is, in my judgment, second in authority and value to no similar work. Its fulness and accuracy on American subjects are very important features. It is a condensed library in itself. I cordially commend it to the public.

From Prof. William P. Blake, New Haven, Conn.

JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is accurate, compact, concise, and cheap.

From J. P. Finley, D. D., Principal Brookfield Academy, Brookfield, Mo.

I take pleasure in saying that I purchased a copy of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA something more than a year ago. The more carefully and frequently I examine and consult it, the more thoroughly I am convinced that for American readers it is the best encyclopædia now issued.

From Martin S. Decker, Deputy County Clerk, Kingston, N. Y.

Having exchanged my subscription to the Encyclopædia Britannica, and volumes of the same, for JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, I take pleasure in indorsing the many other testimonials to its value which you have received. Feeling convinced that American subjects in a work of this character are to American readers a great desideratum, I am glad to say that in JOHNSON's I find that want better realized than in any other I have examined.

From Messrs. J. P. Dolliver and Chas. H. More, Attorneys, Fort Dodge, Iowa. After a careful examination of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA we have given our order for the work, because we believe that it is the most reliable and useful cyclopædia ever published in the English language. We have compared it with Appletons', the American reprint of the Britannica, and with other popular works of the kind, and find it superior in a variety of ways to all of them. In the one subject of Biography its utility is beyond all praise when compared with any other work of its class. As a library of ready reference and a treasury of universal and trustworthy information, the volumes ought to find a place, not only on the shelves of students and scholars, but in the family libraries of the people everywhere. No man can with so little expense so materially advance the education of his children as by placing these volumes within their reach.

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From C. L. Dodge, Kingston, N. Y.

I have just purchased JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA. After careful examination, I believe it to be the best work of the kind extant. The more I use it, the better I am pleased with it. Its signed articles give it a value and reliability which cannot be overestimated.

From Hon. A. B. Smith, Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

I have just received JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and from a careful, though hasty, examination and comparison with the last edition of Appletons', with which I am somewhat familiar, I do most unhesitatingly commend the scope and completeness, as well as the freshness and terseness, of the articles represented in JOHNSON'S. Its range of subjects is very complete, and the treatment always clear and concise and up to the times. All the great topics are treated by experts in their line, whose reputation is worldwide, and whose names appended to their articles give them a greatly-enhanced value. The Publishers bring the work up to the present time, and in this respect it certainly excels all other cyclopædias. In clearness of type and neatness of execution the work is a marvel of excellence and accuracy. The enterprise of the Publishers in representing the work so fresh from the best authors and writers to the public is as novel in literature as it is grateful to any person who wishes to be accurately informed upon the current events of the day. And this alone will ensure its success.

From Rev. A. P. Van Gieson, D. D., Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

I have this day, after examination, taken JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA. I have done so because I regard it as taking the highest rank as a working cyclopædia. It is compact, accurate, abounds in information on living men and on American subjects, and it is brought down to date.

From Rev. Charles F. Thwing, Cambridge, Mass.

I have the new edition of the Britannica; I also have McClintock & Strong's ten volumes, besides other volumes, as Schaff's, of similar character. At my summer home I have the use of Appletons' sixteen revised volumes. I am free to say that JOHNSON'S is by far the most useful. For nearly seven years standing on my shelves, it has been of more worth to me than all other cyclopædias put together.

From Prof. H. L. Smith, Hobart College, Geneva, N. Y.

I have no hesitation in saying that I consider JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA as the very best for general use, and should select it, if I could have but one, in preference to Appletons' or the Britannica.

From W. G. Stevenson, M. D., Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

An examination of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA assures me that it will prove a valuable addition to my library, and I therefore subscribe for it. It is specially rich in information concerning American men and subjects, and will be an excellent work of reference to the general reader or to the special student.

From Edward B. Walker, Jr., Kingston, N. Y.

I have examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA with a great deal of care, and have devoted considerable time to a comparison between it and its two leading rivals, the Britannica and Appletons'. After much examination and comparison I have given my order for JOHNSON'S, believing it to be the best work of the kind published. Besides its great merit, another recommendation for it is its cheapness. It is seldom indeed that the cheapest is the best, yet if there were no difference in the cost of these three leading works, I would unhesitatingly select JOHNSON'S.

From W. E. Cave, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Paducah, Ky.

I have been taking the Encyclopædia Britannica for some time, but have recently had the pleasure of examining JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and I do not hesitate to say that I prefer it to the former.

From Rev. W. Spaulding, Pastor First Congregational Church, Poughkeepsie, N. Y.

I have very carefully compared JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA with Appletons', and am satisfied that the former is superior. I find it as full in number of subjects; it is brought down to date; its articles by specialists give much additional value; comparison of the two has altered my previous opinion and led me to decidedly prefer JOHNSON'S.

From Rev. Frank L. Wilson, Pastor Washington Street M. E. Church, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. I have been the possessor of the People's and Johnson's General Cyclopædia, but this day exchanged thera in purchase for JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, a work which, on careful investigation, I regard superior to any of its kind. Though not entirely free from faults, it has fewer, perhaps, than any like work. The information it gives, covering every department of history, science, religion, etc., is the latest and most reliable. The principal articles have been written by specialists who are acknowledged authorities on the subjects treated, and a rare degree of accuracy as to facts and dates has been reached. No topic of importance has been left out, while many of the articles are full to elaborateness. The literary style is good-clear and concise. The more I see and hear of the UNIVERSAL, the more I feel like speaking its praise.

From Rev. John S. Bacon, Pastor Presbyterian Church, Corning, N. Y.

I have carefully and thoroughly examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and am fully persuaded that as to comprehensiveness, recency, authority, accuracy, and arrangement it stands without a peer. Its examination will in every instance result in its approval. It is a library of no mean proportions condensed into eight noble volumes; it is an epitome of human learning in every department brought down to 1886.

From A. Gaylord Slocum, Principal Free Academy, Corning, N. Y. JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA is without doubt one of the finest works of its kind ever published. Clear, concise, and comprehensive, with a list of Editors whose names are a guarantee of reliability and intelligence, it may safely be taken as authority upon any subject of which it treats. Its plan is excellent and its arrangement of references admirable. Such a work ought to be in every home, and will take the place of a small library of other books.

From Right Rev. F. D. Huntington, Bishop Prot. Epis. Church, Syracuse, N. Y.

So many of the Editors, Associate Editors, and Special Contributors of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA (revised edition) are known to me personally as scholars and writers in their several departments, that I have no hesitation in certifying to the great value and unquestionable accuracy of the work as a whole, though I have been able to give it only a cursory examination. The scope of the undertaking goes much beyond that of any of the class that I am acquainted with. I hereby agree to exchange my set of Encyclopædia Britannicu, Scribner edition, even, for one set of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA, in 8 vols., cloth binding.

From Rev. L. H. Shuck, Pastor of First Baptist Church, Paducah, Ky.

I have examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and I am prepared to say that it excels all the other works of a simila character, and those who are fortunate enough to possess it will find their purchase-money well invested. It is emphatically a valuable library in itself.

From George P. Brown, President Indiana State Normal School, Terre Haute, Ind. JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA has been in use in this institution ever since its publication. We have several sets of other cyclopædias, both English and American, and six sets of JOHNSON's. We make more use of JOHNSON's than of any other, and probably more than of all others. It is a very convenient reference-book, because of the compactness of its matter; it contains what the student wants most to know, and is very free from useless matter in every department. We consider it an invaluable aid to those pursuing a course of study in this institution.

From D. B. Abbey, Rondout, N. Y.

This is to certify that I have exchanged my 19 volumes of the Britannica for a set of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, new edition, 8 volumes, believing the latter work to be preferable for practical use, in that it is much fuller on American subjects and fully up to date.

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EXTRACTS-TESTIMONIALS AND COMPARISONS CONTINUED.

From Rev. F. J. Cheney, Kingston, N, Y.

JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA commends itself to the scholars because of its thoroughness and reliability; it commends itself to the laymen because of its simplicity. A work that has put under contribution the talent of many eminent men in the making of it comes to every home with a strong appeal for hearty reception. We believe in JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA at Kingston Academy, and consider it to be one of the best works of reference.

From Jacob D. Wurts, Kingston, N. Y.

This is to certify that I have this day exchanged my 19 volumes of the Encyclopædia Britannica, for which I paid in cash $114, for the 8 volumes of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA. My reasons for so doing were to get more valuable information in a much less given space, more easily referred to, and not quite so English as the one I disposed of.

From Rev. F. Washburn, Rector Church of the Holy Spirit, Rondout, N. Y.

I take pleasure in recommending JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA as probably the most complete work of its kind yet published. It is comprehensive, and yet thorough, in its treatment of the infinite variety of subjects upon which men of every profession and occupation seek information. It is not disappointing, as so many works of a like character are to those who go to them for knowledge on some particular subject. Those who purchase it, I am certain, will have no reason for regretting

the act.

From Rev. O. Haviland, Pastor Wurts Street M. E. Church, Rondout, N. Y. Having carefully examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, I am so convinced of its many excellencies that I have secured it for my own use, though already possessing Appletons' revised edition. The treatment of its different subjects by unquestioned masters in the respective departments cannot fail to make it interesting to the general reader and of incalculable value to the student, whose first need in a book of reference is clearness and accuracy, both of which appear very prominently in this publication. I unhesitatingly recommend it as superior to all in the qualities which go to make up a cyclopædia indispensable alike to the family and the student.

From Rev. Dr. J. E. Lyall, Millbrook, N. Y.

Allow me to say that I did not know until now what an infinite superiority JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA (revised edition) has over Appletons'. The one is written by men, experts in the subjects they present. The other is compiled by men whose sole qualifications for contributors seem to be that they were out of a job and D. Appleton & Co. could get their services cheaply. The one abounds in clear statement of fact; the other is not reliable. The one is up to date; the other is falsely represented to be. I should like to thank you for advising and assisting me in the exchange. My opinion of the relative merits of the two works is confirmed by the Rev. Dr. Chamberlain of India, who has lately spent a few days with me. He says, “No comparison between them." If Appletons ever impose a set of their work on any of my friends, it will not be because they are not pointed to something better by me. I am anxious to get the remaining volumes, and shall await eagerly their issue.

From Hon. Chas. E. Dyer, Judge of the U. S. Court, Racine, Wis.

I have examined with a good deal of care the volumes of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA (revised edition) which you kindly left with me, and I have been so much impressed with the excellence of the work that I can well understand why it should have received the approval of so many of the best scholars in the country. Even the examination I have given it convinces me that a more critical analysis would but strengthen the conclusion that it is almost an invaluable contribution to cyclopædic literature. It ought to be in all the public schools of the country, and every one who can afford it should have it in his private library.

It is literally a mine of information, and is so modern and fresh that it is perfectly adapted to the wants of the American student. I do not hesitate to recommend it, for in many of its features it is worthy of unqualified commendation. As the Faculty of Yale have said, "It is practically a geographical gazetteer, a biographical dictionary, a medical and legal manual, and a scientific repertory;" and, combining all these qualities, its value is apparent. As a work of reference and information it seetus to me quite indispensable to every person pursuing a profession, and of undoubted usefulness to all classes.

From Rev. N. C. Mallory, Pastor of the Baptist Church, Racine, Wis.

I have used JOHNSON'S CYCLOPEDIA for more than four years, and found it superior to either the American, or even the Britannica, for the every-day use in my profession. There is a directness in the utterance of JOHNSON's which seems to answer the student's inquiry without encumbering the mind with prolixity.

Every young married couple should feel that one article of furniture is wanting until this cyclopædia is obtained.

From Ex-Gov. C. C. Carpenter, Fort Dodge, Iowa.

I have examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA (revised edition), and to some extent compared it with Appletons', a copy of which I have owned for several years, and I have no hesitation in saying I believe JOHNSON's the most complete, compact, and in many instances more correct than Appletons'. When these facts are considered in connection with the fact that it can be obtained at less than half the cost of Appletons', it seems to me that persons desiring to buy a cyclopædia will do well to obtain a copy of JOHNSON'S. As evidence of my appreciation of the work I have arranged to exchange Appletons' for JOHNSON'S.

From J. P. Dolliver, Fort Dodge, Iowa.

W. P. HUNNICUTT-DEAR SIR: After a careful examination of JOHNSON'S NEW UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, I have given my order for the work, because I believe that it is the most reliable and useful cyclopædia ever published in the English language. I have compared it with Appletons', the American reprint of the Britannica, and with other popular works of the kind, and find it superior in a variety of ways to all of them.

In the one subject of biography its utility is beyond all praise when compared with any other work of its class. As a library of ready reference and a treasury of universal and trustworthy information the volumes ought to find a place not only on the shelves of students and scholars, but in the family libraries of the people everywhere. No man can with so little expense so materially advance the education of his children as by placing these volumes within their reach. I hope that you may have large success in introducing them to the attention of the people.

From G. W. Hatcher, Esq., the Distinguished Scholar.

I have been in possession of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA for nearly two years. I exchanged Appletons' for it, and never made a better trade. I prefer it for the following reasons:

1. The important articles have been written by specialists, who sign their names and thus become responsible to the public for their statements.

2. The articles are in divisions, thus enabling one to obtain desired information without having to read the entire production. 3. Useless lumber is left out.

4. The latest discoveries, the newest inventions, the freshest scientific questions, are put in.

5. It is concise, accurate, and cheap.

I know of no work of this description within the same compass that I could so confidently recommend.

From Rev. Jas. A. Geissler, Green Bay, Wis.

I must acknowledge that I am convinced of the superiority of JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA (revised edition). After comparing it pretty thoroughly, especially with Appletons', I find it far superior in numerous and very important points. The grand work is complete and devoid of all prejudice, and decidedly deserves unlimited praise. Every institution of learning certainly should have it; in fact, it is a ne plus ultra instructor for every family, and something that any child can be proud to fall heir to.

From Rev. D. S. MacEwans, Pastor First Baptist Church, Kansas City, Mo. JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is a very valuable work, and for general use will be found equal to any in the market. From Rev. C. W. Parsons, Pastor Grand Avenue M. E. Church, Kansas City, Mo. JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA I believe to be a most valuable work. I have used it, and think it unexcelled by any work of the kind in America.

The new

From Rev. Dr. Henry Hopkins, Pastor First Congregational Church, Kansas City, Mo. I have used JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA for several years, and have found it convenient and accurate. edition is a great improvement on the old.

From Rev. Jas. C. Morris, Pastor Walnut Street M. E. Church South, Kansas City, Mo. I am so far convinced of the superior excellence of JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA that I have effected an even exchange of my American (Appletons') and the annuals to date for it.

From Rev. J. A. Brooks, Kansas City, Mo.

Without hesitation, I state that JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA is, in my judgment, not only the latest and the cheapest, all things considered, but the best cyclopædia yet published in America.

From Rev. Chas. L. Thompson, Pastor Second Presbyterian Church, Kansas City, Mo. It gives me pleasure to commend JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA. It is especially adapted to the wants of intelligent American readers. It is comprehensive-a working library in itself. The new edition is down to date.

From Rev. Wm. Frost Bishop, Pastor Central Presbyterian Church, Kansas City, Mo. The plan of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is an improvement upon all previous ones, and with the execution of this plan I am almost as well pleased. I consider the work not merely the cheapest, but also the best yet published.

From J. O. B. Lowry, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Kansas City, Mo.

The superiority of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA led me to exchange the American Cyclopædia for it. In its statement of facts it is fresh and full; in respect to its statistics and maps it takes front rauk. No library is complete without it.

From Rev. T. P. Haley, Pastor First Christian Church, Kansas City, Mo.

I very cheerfully testify that I have examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and that I regard it as superior to all others. As evidence of my appreciation of it I have exchanged my Appletons' New American for it, cheerfully paying a difference in price.

From Rev. Robt. Talbot, Rector Trinity Episcopal Church, Kansas City, Mo. This certifies that I have examined JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA, and am very much pleased with the same. It compares favorably with the more expensive works. For the general reader it is unexcelled by any other, and in many respects it is superior to all others.

From Rev. C. J. E. Haterius, Pastor Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church, Kansas City, Mo. JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is not only equal, but surpasses any other in every respect. Having constantly searched its pages for information during the last six years, and in every respect found it the most compact and correct, I would not exchange it for any other known to me.

From J. W. Lowrance, Pastor Centenary Methodist Church, Kansas City, Mo.

I have examined with some care the volumes of JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA you left with me, and am much pleased with them. I have had in my library the Encyclopædia Britannica and the American Cyclopædia; the former being burned, I chose to purchase the latter, and now consider myself fortunate to be able to exchange it for JOHNSON'S.

From Rev. D. M. M'Clellan, Pastor United Presbyterian Church, Kansas City, Mo.

I regard JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA as a work of reference superior to the American (Appletons').

From Rev. D. Schley Schaff, Pastor First Presbyterian Church, Kansas City, Mo. JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA is equal in value to any of the larger cyclopædias, and for general use is excelled by

none.

From Prof. J. R. Eaton of William Jewell College, Liberty, Mo. After a critical examination of the above work, he secured a copy for himself and also one for the college, and speaks of it as follows:

I have in my own library Chambers' Encyclopædia, The American Encyclopædia, The Encyclopædia Britannica, besides various other cyclopædias on special subjects, and I considered myself pretty well supplied, so far as cyclopædiac literature was concerned. But I have been induced, by the high reputation of A. J. JOHNSON as a producer of first-class works, to critically examine JOHNSON'S UNIVERSAL CYCLOPEDIA. I have compared it with the above cyclopædias, and while each possesses valuable features peculiar to itself, I rise from the examination fully convinced that the meed of superiority on the whole, as a popular work, unquestionably belongs to JOHNSON'S, and am of the opinion that if one is able to possess but one cyclopædia, JOHNSON'S should be the one above all others.

From Patterson McNutt, D. D., Pastor M. E. Church, Warrensburg, Mo., former Professor of Mathematics in Indiana Asbury University.

I have had access to, and used, among other cyclopædias, the American and the Britannica, and JOHNSON's is quite superior to the two named. I would recommend JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA above all others. In my judgment it will prove more satisfactory to both students and men in the practical arts and professions of life.

From H. G. Jackson, D. D., Pres. of Lewis College, Glasgow, Mo.

I take pleaure in stating that I have examined JOHNSON'S CYCLOPEDIA with some care, and have compared it with Appletons' and the Britannica, and I do not hesitate to pronounce it a very superior work, and in many respects preferable to either of those mentioned, especially for general every-day use.

From Prof. C. R. Forster, Howard College, Fayette, Mo.

I have examined JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA with others. I have had a strong prejudice for the American, but my judgment now is that in any respect JOHNSON'S is equal to the American; in some respects it is vastly superior. In a choice between the two I should take JOHNSON's, both for its cheapness and for its intrinsic value.

From Prof. J. S. Kendall, Pres. of Pritchett Institute, Glasgow, Mo.

I have had for several years past occasion to examine several of the popular cyclopædias of the day, among which are JOHNSON'S, the American, and Chambers'. In arrangement of topics and the division of these into convenient sub-heads, in the impartial treatment of controverted questions, in general freshness of matter and style, I prefer JOHNSON'S to all others.

From Rev. Thomas Toney, A. M., M. D., Pres. of Ozark College at Greenfield, Mo. After examining JOHNSON'S NEW UNIVERSAL CYCLOPÆDIA with considerable care, I give it preference over all others known to ne, in many important particulars. In the amount, variety, and arrangement of its matter; in the ability of its editorial corps and the reliability of its scientific statements; in its fair and impartial treatment of all controverted questions; in its judicious and appropriate illustrations,—this work is to me eminently satisfactory.

From Prof. E. D. Barkley of Ash Grove College, Ash Grove, Mo.

Having given JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA a somewhat careful examination, I feel free to say that in my judgment the numerous flattering commendations given to this work by our most eminent scholars are well deserved and wisely placed. I believe JOHNSON'S CYCLOPÆDIA is a triumph, both in its superior excellence of matter and in its cheapness. Believing this, I have subscribed for the work.

From Prof. J. L. Schmitz, Principal Public Schools, Chillicothe, Mo. The strongest ally a good teacher can have is a good cyclopædia in the hands of his pupils; if I could, I would put one into every family. For all uses to which a cyclopædia is usually put JOHNSON's is the best.