In placing this work before my friends at The Waldorf and the public in general, it is with the feeling that I am giving them a book illustrative of the best methods of preparing food at the present day.

The collection of recipes embodies many which have been rendered easy of comprehension and arranged in such a manner as to meet the wants of all - the caterer to large dinners or receptions, as well as the more modest entertainment furnished at the hearthside. There has been more particular attention devoted to the requirements of the latter than to those of the former, as, in the writer's opinion, the giver of a small reception has been, it might be said, rather neglected in such works as have come before the notice of the undersigned, relative to cookery.

The title selected for the book is: The Cook Book by "Oscar" of the Waldorf, and it is with great honor dedicated to the patrons of The Waldorf, with the hope that they will receive it as a token of my high esteem and sincere appreciation of their kindness as shown to me at all times.

In conclusion, let me state that I enter the arena as an author with the hope that my experience may prove entertaining to my friends, as well as enable them to prepare a Waldorf Dinner at their own homes.

With the hope that my friends and the public will appreciate the work here presented to them, I am

Very respectfully,

OSCAR TSCHIRKY,

Maitre d'Hotel, The Waldorf.