THE first edition of this work, published in 1878, has been for several years out of print.

In the interval, the statute law has been revised and consolidated, and numerous judicial decisions throw light on the various provisions of the A.

Cts Under these circumstances the necessity for the present edition becomes apparent.

The former edition met with very general acceptance, and had a large sale.

With the additional material available, and the experience gained in the meantime, I have endeavoured to improve upon my former effort, keeping the same general principles in view.