In the present volume I have endeavoured to give an outline of the principal features of the River Clyde, and of the commercial and industrial operations which have rendered it so well known as a navigable river.

Various books have appeared from time to time treating specifically of the leading characteristics of the district, and of the rise and progress of its industries.

The object of this work is rather to convey, in a condensed form, a general idea of the River, and of its varied surroundings-both of a topographical and a commercial character-together with some of the geological and meteorological features of the Clyde Valley.

For much of what is contained in the volume I am indebted to already published works, and to various individuals and business firms, who readily responded to inquiries on special points of a commercial, mechanical, or scientific nature; also to many personal friends, who have kindly communicated valuable information, especially about old Glasgow, the river, and early steamboats.

Throughout the text I have endeavoured to acknowledge the sources of all the quotations or special information obtained, and of the drawings and photographs lent for the purpose of illustration. The picturesque scenes have been drawn by D. Small and John Blair.

GLASGOW, May, 1888.

W. J. MILLAR.