The Microscope. 177 



possessor a microscopist. We are often asked by those who have 

 become interested in practical microscopy by a display of beautiful 

 objects, or through some accident, the best line for them to pm*- 

 sue in taking up the study, and the proper books to aid them in 

 their work. Our own ideas on this subject, based on a close observ- 

 ance of methods employed in the great laboratories abroad, and by 

 the most successful scientists of this country, may be briefly stated. 

 The student should, if possible, place himself under the personal guid- 

 ance of an experienced teacher in a laboratoiy sufficiently equipped 

 with necessary reagents and apparatus. AVhen such a course is im- 

 possible or impracticable, the following plan should be pursued : 



(A.) A thorough familiarity with the microscope, its construc- 

 tion, manipulation, and the care of its various parts, should be 

 acquired. In this we do not include a profound knowledge of 

 microscopical optics, but a sufficient acquaintance with lenses, their 

 powers of refraction, magnilication, etc., to enable the beginner to 

 appreciate Avhat he sees by their use. To assist in this we know of no 

 better help than Mr. Bausch's " Manipulation of the Microscope." 

 This little book furnishes in brief and concise language the most 

 salient points above mentioned. Gage's " Notes on Microscopical 

 Methods" furnish information which the student should possess at 

 the outset, but which is given in no other manual with such clear- 

 ness and in so condensed a form. Usually years of work are neces- 

 sary in acquiring the knowledge which is here set forth in a few 

 pages. Mayall's Cantor Lectures are also useful, giving, as they do,, 

 a complete history of the development of the microscope. 



(B.) The next step is of a more practical nature, the handling 

 and preparing of objects for examination. In our opinion it is a 

 mistake for the beginner to invest in the voluminous and high- 

 priced works on this subject, which may contain, it is true, matter 

 invaluable to the microscopist, but in far too elaborated form for the 

 mental digestion of the tyro. There are many little books which 

 will be of much service at the start. Of these we may mention 

 Manton's "Beginnings with the Microscope," and James' " Elemen- 

 tary Microscopical Technology." 



(C.) It is usual for the beginner to waste much time in examin- 

 ing all sorts of objects, pretty in themselves, perhaps, but of no value 

 whatever, in an educational sense, to the observer. We believe that 

 whatever the bent of the student's mind, whatever his intentions in 

 regard to his ultimate work, the high road to success in any depart- 

 ment lies through a knowledge of animal histology. We urge those 

 who contemplate taking up the microscope, or who have already 



