In the preparation of this book, as comparatively few printed documents exist in which the facts about devastation and reconstruction are given, I have been obliged to collect most of my data at first hand through interviews with government officials and others who are particularly active in reconstruction work, and by making trips of observation from time to time through the devastated regions. Everywhere I have been met with the greatest courtesy. Busy and overworked public servants of every grade have shown an eagerness to help me secure the needed facts. I cannot express too strongly my appreciation of what they have done to make this book possible, and I wish to take this occasion to thank them for their generous collaboration.