12 



reader may perhaps be able to judge. The work simply 

 pretends to give a few examples and general suggestions 

 for the arrangements of these buildings, without attempting 

 any practical or theoretical phraseology. I daresay some may 

 consider there is little scope for ingenuity or taste in the plan- 

 ning and arrangement of stables. Such has not been my 

 experience, as good taste and ability can be brought to bear 

 on this subject like all others when one applies himself to 

 it, with the result that the latest improvements can be com- 

 bined with taste, comfort, and economy. 



In expressing the pleasure the preparation of this little 

 work has given me, and in fondly cherishing the hope it 

 may help to improve the condition and welfare of one of 

 the noblest animals of God's creation, I have to acknow- 

 ledge with many thanks the kind assistance I have received 

 from my friend and countryman, Matthew Dawson, Esq., and 

 from James Innes Murray, Esq., and G. S. Lowe, Esq. 



JOHN BIRCH. 



8 John Street, Adelphi, London, W.C. 

 February 12, 1892. 



