Book excerpt: Originally published in 1890: The object of this little work is to assist young beginners and others who, though in the trade many years, have not had the opportunity of seeing so much of the higher branches of practice as they might desire. I also trust it will not be thought unworthy the notice of the more skilled mechanic. I have no hesitation in saying the methods here employed in drawing and cutting arches , also in mixing the materials and executing the different sorts of pointing, are practically the best, and those generally adopted by the most experienced workmen.....Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900's and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.