The author desires it to be distinctly understood at the outset that he by no means claims that the methods of designing and construction given herein are all either original with him or are the only correct methods; they are, however, the very best of which he knows, whether they originated in his practice or were adopted in whole or in part from the practice of others.

Probably the first point in connection with this book which each reader will find to criticise is its peculiar title. Each will probably remark, "Why, in the name of common sense, did the author choose such an indefinite and outlandish title as 'De Pontibus'?" Reader, its indefiniteness is its most praiseworthy feature; for the work is certainly not a complete treatise on bridges, being eminently lacking in illustrations of details, and entirely without any treatment of the theory of stresses; and what title could be more appropriate to such a book than the indefinite one, "Concerning Bridges"? But, the captious reader will reply, "Why revert to the Latin language? Is not English good enough?" Certainly it is; but the author had a sound reason for using the Latin, which he will proceed to explain, as the said captious reader will assuredly not be satisfied without some explanation.

For five consecutive years of his early life the author devoted more than half of his working time to the study of the Latin language; and this is the first opportunity which has occurred during the twenty-two years of his professional career to put the knowledge (?) so obtained to any practical use. Moreover, he fears that, even if he be so fortunate as to be able to practise his profession another twenty-two years, no other occasion will occur to use it, so be feels the necessity for grasping this unique opportunity of a lifetime.

Captious reader, are you now satisfied?

That many readers will have faults to find with the book goes without saying. Some may object to its incompleteness in that it does not treat of stresses and that it gives principles without actual examples of their application. To these the author would reply that any information desired concerning the subject of stresses can be found in such standard works on