Origin and Development of the Microscope: as Illustrated by Catalogues of the Instruments and Accessories, in the Collections of the Royal Microscopical Society, together with Bibliographies of Original Authorities

Abstract

FEW individuals possess all the qualifications necessary for the study of the history of any science. They must read with facility the Latin in which the ideas of the early writers were expressed. Failing actual possession, they must have ready access to the original works. Above all they must have the requisite leisure. These essential conditions are rarely found combined in one individual, and it is not surprising that familiarity with the scientific literature of the past is so limited. An impressive exhibit of ancient books at the recent Optical Convention attracted the casual attention of only a small proportion of the members, some of whom no doubt were interested more in the quaintness of the illustrations than in the matter. The collections of the various societies are rarely consulted, and private libraries are dispersed in the salerooms as no home of permanent usefulness can be found for them.

Origin and Development of the Microscope: as Illustrated by Catalogues of the Instruments and Accessories, in the Collections of the Royal Microscopical Society, together with Bibliographies of Original Authorities.

Edited by Alfred N. Disney, in collaboration with Cyril F. Hill and Wilfred E. Watson Baker. Preceded by An Historical Survey on the early Progress of Optical Science, by the Editor. Pp. xi + 303 + 30 plates. (London: Royal Microscopical Society, 1928.) 17s. 6d.