Book excerpt: "This book is not intended to be a comprehensive history of science in the British colonies of North America and the early years of the new nation, or a catalogue of all maps and charts compiled, surveys executed, or instruments made, or indeed a listing of the names of all engaged in these activities. It provides at most an overview of how the practical sciences were required and how they were utilized--with which and for what by whom"--Preface (pg. vii).