w. A. Poucher's original 'Perfumes, Cosmetics and Soaps', first published in 1923, were the first comprehensive text books to deal exclusively with the work of the perfume and cosmetic industry, and received recognition and approval throughout the world. Their success and popularity was due primarily to the fact that they provided a practical guide not only to those engaged in the industry, but to a section of readers interested in the mystique and romance which at that time was associated with the perfume and cosmetic arts. It was also an outstanding feature that the books were easily readable, subject matter being expressed in a clear and under­ standable