The present number completes the fourth year of the publication of this magazine. We take this occasion to express our sincere appreciation of the cordial support given us by our readers, and of our intention to deserve a continuance of their patronage by furnishing a magazine which will contain so much of value to its readers that they cannot dispense with it.

Merit is the great criterion of success in these days in all lines of industry, and by that standard we shall shape our work. Our readers can render valuable assistance if they will, by suggesting topics they would like to have written up, and suggestions of this kind will be thankfully received and acted upon as far as practical.

Also, in another line valuable help can be given. If readers will but call the attention of friends to the magazine, the number of readers can be largely increased, which increased patronage will, in turn, enable us to further enlarge the size and scope of the magazine to the advantage of all.

In this number will be found a brief description and drawings of a model steam engine. The

November number will contain one of a horizontal engine of equally diminutive size. Our purpose in presenting these descriptions is to learn if our readers are interested in them, or similar models. If a sufficient number of requests should be received, patterns and castings will be prepared and offered as premiums. Suggestions as to variations from these designs will also be welcome. In the event of a sufficient demand, descriptions of boilers, suitable for furnishing steam will also be given. If you are interested, there-fore, write and tell us so, as this is the only way we can learn of it.

Model making as a means of studying engineering subjects, is not appreciated in this country to near the extent which it deserves. A model steam engine and boiler, if well made and complete in its parts, taken in connection with a good text-book, afford all that is required to become sufficiently familiar with steam engine running to enable one to successfully pass the examination for a second-class engineer's license. Such a license places the holder in the position of being able to readily obtain work at fair wages ; better by far than is received by the dry-goods clerk, whose clothes may be cleaner and necktie larger than the engineer, but who has little or no future advancement to look forward to. In a similar way, a telegraph outfit will enable the owner to learn telegraphy, and good openings for temperate men are always available. It pays to have an aim in life, and by beginning early and working steadily, the goal is reached in time. Get a hobby, then, and ride it.

The number of inquiries regarding the offering of premiums not included in our regular list make it necessary to again state that any article desired by a subscriber will be offered as a premium upon request, at terms as favorable as possible. Many have obtained numerous electrical or mechanical tools or instruments, and others could, if but willing to make a little effort. Fill up your tool chest in this way ; it is easily done.