PREFACE. Vv

 

In order to avoid confusing the mind of the student, controversial matters have been carefully
avoided. When, however, opinion on any subject is fairly divided, a brief statement is made of the
differing views. ;

The favorable reception accorded by the teaching profession to the earlier editions of the book,
and the flattering increase in the number of schools using it, have satisfied the author of the
inadvisability of changing, to any considerable extent, the order of sequence of topics discussed, or
the general manner of explanation therein adopted.

In the preparation of the revised edition the author has freely consulted the latest standard
authorities in the many sciences represented.

The maps have all been re-drawn according to the best authorities, and are printed and colored
by processes that in point of clearness and beauty leave little room for improvement.

EDWIN J. HOUSTON.

Centrat Hien Scuoot,
PHILADELPHIA, PA.

NOTE.

 

The first chapter of this book is intended mainly for reference, containing as it does, an abstract.
of the elementary principles of Mathematical Geography, with which most pupils beginning the study
of Physical Geography are familiar. In many schools in which the book is used, it is customary
to begin the formal study of the book with the Syllabus, page 21, which presents a comprehensive
review of the chapter, and in practice and results this plan has proved satisfactory.