28 METHODS OF MICROSCOPICAL BESEARCH. 



Much of the disappointment suffered by many who 

 are provided with microscopes may be traced to 

 this erroneous idea. Too many look upon the 

 microscope as a mere toy, and microscopical obser- 

 vation as an amusement, by the help of which time 

 may be made to pass away pleasantly. Few are 

 aware of the real interest derived from intelligent 

 investigation, and the instruction afforded, and the 

 facts for contemplation and thought easily to be 

 obtained if only the observer will acquire the neces- 

 sary dexterity and elementary knowledge to enable 

 him to study with success. Many who have be- 

 come interested in what was at first but rough and 

 superficial investigation, have persevered and have 

 at length become excellent observers, who have 

 added new facts to our knowledge, or have ren- 

 dered more accurate information which was already 

 possessed." 



It is not intended in this work to give minute 

 descriptions of, or to compare one with another the 

 microscopes and various apparatus supplied by the 

 accomplished opticians in this and other countries, 

 the details of which are fully given, and the instru- 

 ments and accessories exhaustively described in so 

 many works upon the microscope. The aim of 

 the present treatise is rather to give thoroughly 

 practical directions for the use of the instruments 

 and apparatus, so that "research" and manipula- 

 tion may go hand in hand. 



For practical work (as distinguished from delicate 

 observations with the higher powers) the simpler 

 and smaller in other words, the "handier" the 

 microscope which is in constant use the better, and 

 the lower the power that may safely be used to 



