Conversations on Chemistry is an introductory chemical textbook. To this third American edition (the first and second: Philadelphia, 1806, and 1809), the anonymous editor has added new material on mineral waters and the principles of dyeing, tanning, and currying. The recent isolation of the alkali metals, potassium, and sodium, by Humphry Davy is described on pages 338–351.

Although published anonymously, this work was quickly recognized to be by Jane Marcet (née Haldimand, 1769–1858). Born in London to Swiss parents, Marcet was a prolific author and proponent of women’s education. Her work is written in an easy dialogue style, in which “Mrs. Bryant” or “Mrs. B” instructs two young ladies (“Caroline” and “Emily”) in the principles and discoveries of modern chemistry. Numerous editions of this work were published in England and America, as well as translations into French, German, and Italian. Marcet introduced and discussed the latest scientific discoveries as each edition appeared.

The work is digitized in its entirety.