This Section is devoted to the publication of computer Algorithms for statistical applications. It is intended for listings of usable computer programs, together with descriptions of their use, and for comments on previously published algorithms. Ordinarily the program published will be in FORTRAN (ANSI 1966 or 1977). In the case of longer programs, only the description and comment statements from the program will be published in this Section. Machine readable copies of any program published or described in this Section can be obtained from the coeditors. A statement of the algorithm policy and guidelines for submission can be found in Volume B6(4), iii-vi (1977) of this Journal. Please check issues subsequent to this issue for revisions in the guidelines.