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PREFACE. THIS work (like all the others published 'by M. ION), is for the purpose of clearly illustrating the subject in hand, -free from all laborious and incomprehensible terms; and in such a way that the information needed may be acquired -with ease and satisfaction by anyone of ordinary abilities. Although the candidate is or may be wholly unaccustomed to the Engine-Room, a proper knowledge of Steam may be obtained with very little trouble, and the numerous Masters and Mates that have passed under M. ION'S guidance, have been surprised that they should be able to get such confidence in themselves, as to the use and working of the machine, during a few days' study. Having access to Engine-Rooms of various Steamers, and models kept on. hand, M. ION can assure those who are anxious of obtaining a Certificate for Steam, that they may, in a week or ten days, accomplish their desire. M. ION. LIVERPOOL, MAY, 1871.