PREFACE. 



THE papers which compose the present volume are 

 reprinted from the Illustrated London News, to whose 

 proprietors I have to acknowledge the courtesy which 

 permits me to reproduce some of my contributions to 

 its pages. The book really owes its origin to the 

 suggestion of the late Mr. J. L. Latey, the genial 

 editor of the News, whose memory will be kept green 

 by many another contributor besides my humble self. 

 Mr. Latey had frequently been asked if the papers 

 entitled " Science Jottings " were likely to be re- 

 printed, while I myself have also received numerous 

 inquiries to the same effect. I trust, therefore, I 

 may find myself in the happy position of an author 

 whose book is anticipated in some quarters, and 

 whose labours, despite their shortcomings, are certain 

 of a welcome from the known friends, and still more 

 from the many unknown friends, whom I am privileged 

 to address week by week in the " Science Jottings " 

 of the News. It is late in the day to apologise for 

 presenting a series of popular science papers for public 

 approval. May I add, however, that the articles 



