The essay reproduced herein was originally prepared for the annual report of the State Board of Health of Rhode Island. It was written both for professionals and laymen. Having met with a favorable reception it was thought worth while to increase its utility by republishing it in an improved and more accessible shape. Many parts were accordingly rewritten, others were modified and omissions corrected. Such omissions, however, are sure to occur in any edition of a book, containing descriptions of modern plumbing apparatus, as new appliances are continuously invented between the time the book is written until it is printed and published.

Many cuts of the original report have been omitted, particularly those illustrating plumbing fixtures, as these are contained in the well known catalogues and circulars of manufacturers of plumbers supplies.

The author takes this opportunity to express his obligations to many friends for valuable hints and suggestions, which he has endeavored to embody in this improved edition. He would be glad if this little volume should prove to be of interest and value to architects, sanitary engineers, plumbers, sanitary officers and householders in general.

W. P. G.

Newport, R. I., December, 1882