PUBLISHER'S STATEMENT 



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WOOD 

 HOLE 

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Measured by man's calendar it has been a long stretch 

 of time since he first ventured forth in crude canoes on 

 the waters skirting his early habitations. 



The art of handling ships — seamanship and naviga- 

 tion — began before man could read or write ; it was ships 

 that first quickened his imagination and enabled him to 

 measure his skill against Nature's elements and released 

 him from the encirclement of small operations. 



Western Europe and its civilization saved themselves 

 from being pushed into the Atlantic by the flanking 

 movement afforded by ships — increased knowledge of 

 navigation. 



No single individual has done more for his fellow 

 man in lessening the hazards of navigation than has 

 Matthew Fontaine Maury. 



For the safe navigation of aircraft the world is waiting 

 today for another Maury. Aerology is in its infancy. 



No other life of this distinguished naval officer and 

 scientist has been published in America and the author 

 has spent the greater part of four years in its prepar- 

 ation. 



To Commander Byrd the author and the publisher 

 are indebted for the Foreword. 



To the Hydrographic Office, Navy Department, ap- 

 preciation for assistance and advice rendered is 

 expressed. 



That Maury's fame and honor may ever grow greater 

 and that his life's work may be an inspiration for a 



