In dealing with the practical part of the business, the preliminary operations of the carriage designer and draughtsman are first considered, and directions given how to make the drawing of a proposed vehicle; from whence the reader is taken into the workshop, where he is introduced to the points which usually have to be considered before commencing the construction of a vehicle, and instructions given as to the preparation of the full-sized working draughts or drawings. The component parts of body and carriage are then particularised, and notes added to assist in their being properly understood. A glance is given at the various materials used, and then the most important parts of the vehicle are dealt with separately, as wheels, axles, springs, &c., both the theory and manufacture of each part being given, in order to make clear the work it has to perform in operation, and the means of obviating difficulties. In the chapter devoted to the painting department a slight sketch has been given of the theory of colour, in order that the unscientific reader may understand the harmonies and contrasts of colour, which are so important to the successful conduct of this branch. The materials and implements that the painter uses are described, and the vehicle followed through the successive stages of priming, painting, colouring, and varnishing. In addition to this a chapter is given on “Ornamental Painting” _i.e._ painting monograms, crests, and coats of arms on the carriage panels. In the chapter “General Observations on the Trade” several interesting facts and statistics have been dealt with; such as the present position of carriage artisans; application of machinery; the coach trade in America and in India; also the theory of lengthening or shortening the carriage parts. A chapter on “Invention” has been added, which it is trusted may prove of value. As a concluding chapter, some hints on the proper treatment of carriages by their private owners have been given, which will no doubt be useful to the coach-builder. What few authorities there are on the subject have been carefully consulted by the author, with a view to making the book as accurate and reliable as possible. If any member of the trade desires to make suggestions as to improvement in any of the processes given, his communication, addressed to the author (care of the publishers), will be carefully considered in connection with subsequent editions of the work. J. W. B. LONDON, _April_, 1881. CONTENTS. PAGE CHAPTER I.—GENERAL HISTORY 1 CHAPTER II.—PREPARATION OF THE DESIGN AND SETTING OUT THE FULL-SIZED DRAUGHT 22 CHAPTER III.—VARIOUS MATERIALS USED IN COACH-BUILDING 29