actions as this make one entertain doubts sometimes as to whether inspection really pays.

It is possible that the general demoralization of metal inspection by insufficient prices and keen competition has lowered the quality thereof to such an extent that even the highest possible prices would not make it, for some time to come, what it ought to be; because not only are the assistant inspectors lacking in proper training and thoroughness, but the manufacturers have become accustomed to a certain class of inspection, and would deem it a hardship to be subjected to much more rigid requirements. Eventually, however, the resulting improvement in manufacture of metal-work would be an advantage to the manufacturers as well as to the purchasers.

A decided improvement in inspection can be brought about only by concerted action on the part of the principal inspecting bureaus and inspectors of the country, backed, of course, by the aid of all engineers who are directly interested in the designing and building of structural metal work. If these inspecting bureaus and inspectors of established reputation were to form an association for the purpose of determining what inspection should consist of, and what minimum rates should be charged therefor by all members of the association, and if admission to the association were based upon both experience and good faith, it would be practicable to make very quickly the improvements requisite for bringing inspection up to an almost ideal standard of excellence. For a while a good deal of work would go to the inspectors outside of the association; but ere long the general public would become educated to the fact that good inspection of metal-work is a necessity, and that it can only be obtained by paying living prices to those who do the work.

Engineers, in order to aid in time good work of the association, should refuse to include the price of inspection in their fees for engineering work, and should make it a rule to employ for doing their inspection only members of the association.

Certain engineers of high standing have spoken slightingly