preface. 



Although there are many complete and elaborate Atlases of the World, they 

 are all more or less in such a large and unwieldy form, that reference to them, 

 whilst reading a newspaper or book, usually involves a considerable amount 

 of trouble. 



In the present work, the special aim has been to obviate this inconvenience 

 to the public by providing an Atlas which, for all general pui-poses, is practically 

 quite complete and perfectly reliable, while, at the same time, in such a con- 

 venient and handy form that it may be kept on a writing-table or mantel-shelf 

 for ready consultation. 



The collection of maps, which is extensive and varied, will be found to present 

 a trustworthy representation of the physical and political geography of all the 

 countries of the world. British Colonies and Possessions have been treated in 

 exceptional detail, and several original maps have been inserted to illustrate the 

 most prominent features in Physical and Commercial Geography. 



Accuracy, combined with clearness and legibility, have been the chief objects 

 kept in view in the preparation of the maps ; the latest authorities have been 

 consulted, and all information has been carefully brought up to date. 



The general utility of the Atlas has been increased by the addition of the 

 most recent geographical statistics of the various States of the World, together 

 with an Index of about fifteen thousand names. 



1896. 



The Fifth Edition of the Handy Reference Atlas may be introduced to the 

 public as practically a new work. It has been remodelled and thorouglily re- 

 vised, about eighty new maps have been added, and the text has been re-written 

 and extended. 



1904. 



The plates have been carefully revised to dale, and the statistics corrected ac- 

 cording to the most recent Census returns, 



J. G. 13. 



