The Second Edition of this work being now out of print for some years it has been suggested to me that I should re-write the Manual and bring it up to date. It does not purport to be a highly technical work, but will, I trust, indicate to those requiring fuller information where to look for it. Two Chapters have been added on Road Making and Building Construction which, it is hoped, will make the book more useful to those for whom it is written. The arrangement of the Chapters has also been altered.

My acknowledgments are again due to many friends who have helped me in revising the Second Edition of this Manual.