The fact that the book has passed through two editions is very gratifying and seems to show that it has met with favor. The author takes this opportunity of thanking those who have loaned him illustrations. Wherever figures are borrowed due credit is given. It is hoped that the kind of reception accorded to the first and second editions will also not be withheld from this present edition. LOUIS M. WARFIELD. Milwaukee, Wisc. PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION In this second edition so many changes and additions have been made that the book is practically a new one. All the chapters which were in the previous edition have been carefully revised. Two chapters, "Pathology" and "Physiology," have been completely rewritten and brought up to date. It was thought best to add some references for those who had interest enough to pursue the subject further. These references have been selected on account of the readiness with which they may be procured in any library, public or private. Two new chapters have been added--one on "The Physical Examination of the Heart and Arteries," the other on "Arteriosclerosis in Its Relation to Life Insurance," and it is hoped that these will add to the practical value of the book. Arteriosclerosis can scarcely be considered apart from blood pressure, and in the view expressed within, with which some may not concur, high tension is considered to be a large factor in the production of arteriosclerosis. As the data on blood pressure have increased, the importance of it has become more evident. The chapter on "Blood Pressure" has been wholly rewritten, expanded so as to give a comprehensive grasp of the essential features, and several illustrations have been added in order to elucidate the text more fully. The chief objects in view were to make clear to the physician the technique and the necessity for estimating both systolic and diastolic pressures. The author is grateful for the kindly reception accorded the first edition. No one is more keenly aware of the imperfections than he. The necessity for a second edition is taken to mean that the book has found a place for itself and has been of use to some. The author hopes that this new edition will fulfill adequately the purpose for which he prepared the book--namely, as a practical guide to the knowledge and appreciation of a most important and exceedingly common disease. LOUIS M. WARFIELD. Milwaukee, May, 1912. PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION