PREFACE PUBLIC interest in the monetary question has for years past been steadily extending. But the announcement of the Indian Currency experiment last midsummer, and the subsequent repeal of the United States Silver Purchase Act, have raised this subject to a position of commanding and even grave concern. Many are reflecting seriously, and seeking light upon it, who have before regarded it as of little moment, or as involving only a transient difficulty which would soon pass away. It has now become clear that the question is one of the greatest importance, upon which no intelligent person can afford to remain half-informed. An attempt has been made in this book to satisfy the needs of inquiring minds by stating, as simply |