FOR THE USE OF ADVANCED CLASSES IN SCHOOLS & INSTITUTES. EDITORS OF THE GRADE LESSON BOOKS' &c. LONDON: LONGMANS, GREEN, AND CO. 1866. 3987 181 PREFACE. In the preparation of the 'Grade Lesson Books' the Editors sought to teach reading with fluency and expression-to make its exercise a labour of love to the pupil. In the present work, which may be considered a sequel to the sixth volume of that series, they have had a twofold object in view:—viz. (1) To compile a really good reading-book for use in Advanced Classes in Schools and Institutes, and (2) to supply a guide to many of the best works on the subjects treated of. They desire to give useful information, and they hope that, by imparting it in the language of the best writers, they shall assist in the mental culture of youth. By introducing those who may use their book to an acquaintance with some of the best English Classics, they seek to contribute to the formation in them of a pure literary taste; as well as point to them the way by which they may become most effectually furnished in various important branches of knowledge. The series of Arithmetical Examples in the 'Grade Lesson Books' carries the pupil, by the easiest gradations, up to and including Bills of Parcels, Practice, and Simple Proportion; that in the present work takes him on through Compound Proportion, Vulgar and Decimal Fractions, Decimal Coinage, Interest, Stocks, Evolution, &c. and Mensuration. This course will, it is believed, be found sufficient for the office, the warehouse, and the workshop. The Editors disclaim any intention to supersede the work of the teacher: their only design is to assist him, and |