Surveying and Levelling Instruments, Theoretically and Practically Described. For construction, qualities, selection, preservation, adjustments, and uses; with other apparatus and appliances used by civil engineers and surveyors in the field.

"Surveying and Levelling Instruments, Theoretically and Practically Described" written by William Ford Stanley is a detailed examination of the tools used in surveying, built upon the author's years of experience and wide range of mechanical knowledge. The book begins by explaining the importance of these instruments in civil engineering and surveying, promising a thorough analysis of the optical and mechanical aspects of different surveying devices, and explaining his intent to look at how they are made, how to adjust them, and how they work, giving readers both background and hands-on advice for their jobs.