PREFACE
TO THE
SEVENTH EDITION.
In preparing another edition of the various
papers on roads, which I have published during
the last six years, it may be useful to take a
slight review of the subject, and of the gradual
progress of road improvement throughout the
country.
That any further information should be called for, after the numerous additions made to the original pamphlet, (particularly the last communication to the Board of Agriculture,) is a convincing proof of the impossibility of conveying adequate instructions for practical purposes, by means of the press. It is, however, of the utmost importance that the theory be fully understood, as from want of comprehending the original nature of the system have arisen the many fruitless attempts at imitation, which have cost such vast sums to the public.