PREFACE 



The more intimate one's knowledge of general bacteriology and its special 

 subdivisions, the better is he equipped to engage in any particular branch of 

 the work. Some familiarity with physics and chemistry is essential and the 

 extent of one's knowledge in these allied sciences largely determines the extent 

 to which one can cope with bacteriological problems. 



This subject has so expanded that a complete systematic exposition of it is 

 no longer possible in a single volume, and the frequency with which valuable 

 new facts are disclosed, and new tests and technique devised makes it impera- 

 tive for one engaged exclusively in bacteriological work to read the current 

 journals devoted to it. 



The application of bacteriology to the solution of many important problems 

 arising in medicine, veterinary surgery, agriculture and industry has created a 

 demand that some knowledge of this science be possessed by those engaged in 

 diverse occupations. 



There are basic facts and technique common to all branches of bacteriology 

 and in each specialty a few procedures of prime importance. A knowledge of 

 these is the first requirement of all beginners; this alone constitutes the most 

 valuable information on the subject that can be imparted in medical and other 

 general courses of instruction. It is also the foundation necessary for those who 

 intend to devote themselves exclusively to bacteriology, and for further inde- 

 pendent work in this field. 



The author, being cognizant of the needs of students, practitioners of medi- 

 cine, pharmacists and those engaged in the foodstuff industries, and having the 

 invaluable advice and guidance of Prof. R. C. Rosenberger and the able assist- 

 ance of Dr. Louis Gershenfeld, has endeavored to present in the clearest form 

 a text book for beginners and laboratory .guide for medical practitioners and 

 pharmacists. 



It is a pleasure to acknowledge the invaluable assistance rendered by Dr. 

 Robert M. Lukens, who made the illustrations, Mr. David R. Brewer, Dr. 

 M. E. Smoczynski and Mrs. Mary L. Vogel. 



