viii 
BANKING STANDARDS 
tion beyond the data to which they relate. The banking experi- 
ence herein analyzed is finite; it relates to a specific period of 
time, and to a restricted “universe.” The writer has striven to 
keep these facts in mind, to stay close to his data, and to be 
specific regarding the types of analysis employed, selecting not 
one but many methods whenever the conclusions to which they 
pointed seemed to be doubtful. 
There is often a false suggestion of finality in statistical 
studies and in the generalizations arising from them. This some- 
times comes about because of the claims of the writer, but 
probably as frequently because of the attitude of mind of the 
reader. Knowing this to be true, the writer has consciously tried 
to forestall it by (1) publishing the details with which the analy- 
ses are concerned; (2) calling attention to both their similarities 
and differences; (3) confessing his interest in tendencies toward 
uniformity; (4) choosing methods of analysis intended to reveal 
them; and (5) explaining in detail the manipulative processes 
employed to isolate them. By so doing, he has, it is believed, 
made it difficult for the reader to misunderstand him, and at the 
same time he has kept constantly before himself the details from 
which his generalizations are drawn. Rigorously following out 
this process of study has extended the analysis; it may have 
complicated the treatment. There are, however, compensations. 
These are found in the fact that the reader is permitted (1) to 
follow the analysis; (2) to set up alternative methods of 
treatment, if he so desires, and (3) to draw his own conclusions 
provided those given seem to him to be unwarranted. These privi- 
leges a reader may in justice demand of a research study. Viewing 
them in this light, the writer has been mindful of making them 
possible. 
A number of people have shared in this study. I would name 
first my colleagues in the Bureau of Business Research, who, 
under direction, during a period of more than two and one half 
years, have continued to “prospect” for evidences of order in our 
banking system in the firm conviction that “pay dirt” lay just 
beyond the last obstruction. Together, we have labored, and I 
am glad to acknowledge their assistance. Those who should be 
mentioned by name are Miss Blanche L. Altman and J. A. Folse. 
Then, there are my colleagues in the University—]. W. Bell,