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s
Boston
m
Medical Library
8 THE FENWAY
m
rHE MONTHLY
HOMCEOPATHIC REVIEW.
EDITED BT
ALFRED C. POPE, M.D.,
D. DICE BEOWN, M.A., M.D.
VOL. XXV.
E. GOULD & SON, 69, MOORGATE STREET.
1881.
Q^4 NiEc/
finv 5 V
r ; I I • *
KCV 51918
LonK>v:
fTBAXXm BBOS. fr 00.« PBUnnOSy
85» OAMomLB snuT, b.c.
Baykm, De& 1, IffiL
INDEX.
m
INDEX.
A.
PAOB
Absoess, PerityphilitiCtbyT. E.
Pnrdom, MJ) 226
Ahtinthe 704
Aconite 808
Advertiffliig, ftofesaimud 188
Ailantkiat Clioieal Notes on,
by S. H. Blake, Esq 283
Alexis St. Martin 54
Allopathic Proving of Iodine in
Ooitre 881
Allopatiiy, a Definition of 62!t'
Alpine Flowers and Bntterflies 642
Ammonia Aeetas 283
Anathema, A Priestly 190
Anga Persiea, The 52
Arnold, Dr. W., Phosphortu in
Pnenmonia and Softening of
the Brain, by 665
Anenie and other Powerful
Drags, On the Action and
Nainreof 127
Anewie in Wall Papers ...446, 519
Arsemieal Poisoning, A Case
of, by Dr. Richard Hughes 240
Arsenical Poisoning, Three
Cases of, by John H. Clarke,
M.D 353
Asclepi€U, Brief Clinical Notes
on. By S. H. Blake, Esq. ... 283
Asthenopia, by W. H. Winslow,
M.D., Pittsburgh, Pa 674
B.
Baplitia^ Dr. D. Brown on ... 658
Bath HomcBopathic Hospital 754
Batbs, Dinner to Dr. 359
Beaoonsfield, Lord, and the
Medical Profession 804
Belg^ton, Homoeopathy in 50
Bdladanna, A Case of Poison-
ingwith, byProtheroe Smith,
M.D 685
BsBBinoa, E. W., M.D., Hy-
dzophobinom, by 601
JBioLEB, W. H., M.D., Viola
Tricolor in Besema, Infan-
tile, by 481
Birminghftm Medical Institute,
The 124
of Books will be found only under the word " Beyiews ; "
:«nbject6 from Extracts from Medical Literature under the word " Extracts ; "
Societies and Associations under the word " Homoeopatldc."
PAOB
Birmingham, The Mason
Science College 251
Blaxje, E., M.D., Contagious
Impetigo, Eczema, and Pso-
riasis, by 846
Blakb, J., M.D., On the Con-
nection of the Molecular
Properties of Inorganic Com-
potmds with their Action
upon the Living Animal
Organism, by ....^ 688
Blaxs, S. H., a Clinical Case,
by 671
Blakx, 8. H., Clinical Cases,
with Bemarks 784
BuiKB, S. H., Brief Clmical
Note^ on Ailantkus, AteU-
picu, and Ammonia AtcetaSj
by 283
Blindness, Society for the Pre-
venkion^f 188
Bluxbbbo, H.. M.D., J.P., The
Connection between National
Wealth and National Health,
by 228
Boston University School of
Medicine, Memorial of the
late President Oarfield 697
Bottle, Marshairs Patent Sec-
tional Feeding 441
Bournemouth Hahnemann
Convalescent Home 47
Bovista, 6x, A Par-Ovarian
Cyst (?) Cured by, by Edward
M. Madden, M.B 474
Boycotting HomcBopathy 186
Brain, On Hyperemia of the,
by Dr. Dyce Brown 165
Bram, Phosphorus in Soft^i-
ing of, by Dr. W. Arnold ... 665
Bright*s Disease, Clinical Cases
of, by L. E. Williams, Esq. 156
Bristowe, Dr., and Homceo-
pathy 588-
British Medical Association,
The Medical Press on the
Addresses of the Meeting of
the 614
Bromide Bash 705
Bbown, D. Dtob, Dr., On I^s-
menorrhosa 836,464
Bbown, D. Dtce, Dr., On Hy-
penemia of the Brain 165
IV
INDEX.
Monthly HomoBopatitio
Beview, Bee. 1, 1881^
TAQU
Bbown, D. Dxce, Dr. On Bap-
tuia 658
Butcher, W. Dxane, Esq., On
Nexaral-Analyais, by 287
Batterflies and Alpine Flowers 642
0.
Calf Lymph, Vacoination with 262
"Camp Lou,'» by Dr. A. S.
Kennedy, Blackheath 560
Campbell, 0. 8., M.D., The
Belation of Pathology to
Therapenticfi, by 598
Carlsbad Watev Treatment... 640
Case, Glinioal, by S. H. Blase,
Case of Par-Ovarian Cyst (?)
by £. M. Madden, M.B 474
Cases of Bright*s Disease, by
Lemuel E. Williams, Esq. 156
Cases of Scarlatina selected
from Practice, by John
Drummond, L.B.C.P.E. ... 278
Cases, A Becord of Twenty, by
John H. Clarke, M.D.19, 84, 147
Centenarians of Aiitiquity 707
China, Vaccination in 708
Cholera, On the Prophylactic
Action of Copper in, by Dr.
Jonsset 177
Clabee, John H., M.D., A
Becord of Twenty Cases, by
19, 84, 147
Clabee, Johk H., M.D., Three
Cases of Arsenical Poison-
ing, by 858
Clinical Cases, with Bemarks,
by S. H. Blake, Esq 784
Oceculus Indicus and Picro-
toxin in Producing and
Curing Epilepsy, On, by Dr.
Jousset 104
Cod Liver Oil, Disadvantages
of , for Toung Children 704
Congress, IntemationflJ Medi-
cal, The 627
Constipation, Case of Obsti-
nate, by Dr. A. S. Kennedy 852
Consultations, Medical ...808, 821
Contagions Impetigo, by Ed-
ward Blake, M.D 846
CoopEB, BoBBBi T., M.D., Dis-
pensary Experiences, by ... 221
OopptriD. Cholera, On the Pro-
phylaotic Action of, by Dr.
Jousset 177
PAOB
Cure of Diseases by Medicines,
by William Sharp, M.D.,
Cyclamen Europaum, Clinical
Observations on, by Thomas
Shearer, M.D 292
D.
Davos-PIatz, Switzerland, Me-
teorological Observations at 629'
Dispensaiy Experiences, by
Bobert T. Cooper, M.D. ... 221
Dramatic Performance, Third
Annual, in Aid of the Funds
of the London Homosopathio
Hospital 876
Drams, Morning 623
Druggist, A Malicious 70&'
Drummond, John, Dr., Cases
of Scarlatina selected from
Practice, by 278
Dysmenorrhoaa, On, by Dr.
Dyoe Brown 386^
E.
Ebuby, Lord, Testimonial to
489, 515
Eczema, by Edward Blake,
M.D., <fcc. 346
Eczema, Infantile, Viola Tri-
color or Jacea in the Treat-
ment of, by W. H. Bigler,
M.D 421
** Empiricism in Exoelsis " ... 318-
Epilepsy, On Coccuhu Indicus
and Picrotoxin Producing
and Curing, by Dr. Jousset 104
Epps Prize, The 700
Euphrasia in Leuooma, On, by
Arthur S. Kennedy, L.B.O.P. 42
F.
FoBTEB, B.N., M.D., Chicago,
Sea-sickness, its Cause and
Cure, by 678^
Freedom of Opinion in Medi-
cine .., 649
G.
Garfield, Memorial of the late
President ...^ 691
Garfield, General, The Death
of .^ ^ 62L
Ssfiefw, Dee. t, 18S1.
INDSX.
PAOB
George nL, Physioiaiui to 703
Germ Theory, M. Pftstenr on
the 744
German Law and HomoBo-
pathists 691
Goitre, Allopathic ProTing of
Iodine in 381
Gbsshtixij), Profeesor, on the
late Professor Henderson ... 757
H.
Hahnemann Convalescent
Home, Boomemonth ... 47, 627
Hahnemann Publishing So-
ciety 441, 518, 626, 712
Hastings, Medical Officer of
- Health for 316
Hatli, Thomas, M.D., A
Search after Scientific Medi-
cine, by 590
Hatls, Thomas, M.D.,
Thoughts on the Scientific
Application of the Princi-
ples of Homoeopathy in
Practice, by 647
Hatwabd, Dr., On the Prepa-
ration of and Dispensing of
Homoeopathis Medicines, by 40
Hsmophilia, A Case of, by
T. Snnpeon, M.D 291
Headaches 706
Headaches, by Archibald
xxewan, B^mU» ••*•••..■..••■■... ^tt
Health, Medical Officer of, for
Hastings 316
Heart Symptoms, by Adrian
Hkoxbson, Professor Green-
field on the late Professor... 757
Hering Memorial, The 249
HswAX, Archibald, MJ).,
Headaches, by 477
Homoeopathic Oonyention,
International 126, 190, 248,
257, 378, 382, 436, 449, 482,
518, 517, 521, 564, 759
Homoeopathic Gonyention,
Transactions of the World's,
1876 ^ 612
Homoeopathic International
Oonyention, 1881, Trans-
actions of the 750
Hunnoeopathio Dispensszy,
Canterbory, Medical Officer,
Beportof 700
Homoeopathic Dispensary,
Newcastle-on-Tyne -.. 251
Homoeopathic Dispensary, The
Hastings and St. Leonaids 136
PAca
Homoeopathic History and
Scotch Hnmour 68
Homoeopathic Asylnm for the
Insane, The New York 184, 639
H6moeopathioHo6pital,Bathl84,754.
Homoeopathic Hospital, Bir-
mingham 49
Homoeopathic Hospital, Lon-
don 49, 252, 376, 879, 427
Homoeopathic Hospital, Mel-
boome 618
Homoeopathic Hospital, Oat-
Patients 107
Homoeopathic Medicines, On
the Preparation and Dis-
pensing of, by W. Hayward 40*
Homoeopathic Society, British
55, 126, 187, 252, 318, 381,
441. 512, 627, 710"
Homoeqpathists and German
Law 696
Homoeopaths, State Honours to 190
Homoeopathy a Distinoti?e
Method 718.
Homoeopathy, An Edinbur^^
Professor on 63&
Homoeopathy and Allopathy?
What are, by a Physician ... 211
Homoeopathy, and Di. Sidney
Binger 49
Homoeopathy, end the British
Medical Association 695
Homoeopathy, The Times and 874
Homoeopathy, Boycotting 186
HomoBopathy,Dr.Bri8toweand 583
Homoeopathy, Imaginary
notions regarding 311
Homoeopathy in Belgium 50
Homoe<^athyinBoston,U.S.A. 187
Homoeopathy in Germany 441
Homoeopathy in Halifax 53
Homoeopathy in the Isle of
Thanet 640
Homoeopathy in Mexico, Pro-
gress of 51
Homoeopathy in Soutii Aus-
tralia 65
Homoeopathy in the Colonies,
by J. Murray Moore, M.D. 237
Homoeopathy in Yellow Feyer 695
Homoeopathy, The Laiuet on
379, 385, 517
Homoeopathy, The London
School of ... 55, 182, 252,
300, 317, 585, 646, 689, 691
Homoeopathy, The Progress of 193
Homoeopathy, The True Secret
of 55
Hospital, London, The State
of the Homoeopathic 25S
Vl
INDEX.
Moathlf HomoBopttQiIe
Bevtow, Dec. 1, 1861.
PAGB
HoBpiial, Soath Ansiralm,
Beport of the Adelaide Chil-
dren's 261
How to Study the Materia
Medica, by A. C. Pope, M.D. 204
Hydzofoephrosis, by P. J.
MoOotirt, MJ>. r 478
Hydrophobinnm, ^y E. W.
Bemdge, M.D 601
Hygiene and Medieal Exhibi-
tion in South Kensington,
The International 616
Hughes, Bichord, H.D., A
Case of Chronic Arsenioal
Poisoning 240
I.
Indiambber 782
Institute, The Birmingham
Medical 124
International Medical Con-
gress, The 627
Intemational Medical and
Hygiene Exhibition in South
Kensington, The 516
Iodine^ AUopathio Proving of,
In Goitre 881
J.
Jaeea or Viola Tricolor in the
Treatment of Eczema Infan-
tile, by W. H. Bigler, M.B. 421
JoDSBBT, Dr., On Coeculut
Indums and Picrotoxin Pro-
ducing and Curiog Epilep^,
by 104
JouBSET, Dr., On the Prophy-
lactic Action of Copper ia
Cholera, by 177
PAOB
K.
Kali Biehromicum, Clinical
Observations, by Dr. Proell,
of Nice and 0%Btein 698
Kevnsdt, Dr. Abthitb, On
Evphratia in Leucoma, by 42
Kennedy, Dr. A., " Camp Lou ** 560
Kidd, Quain, and Jenner 266
L.
Lancet The, on Drs. Kidd and
Quain 809
Laughing is Catching 624
Lecture on Materia Medica, by
Dr. Pope 719
Leucoma, On Euphrana in,
by Dr. Kennedy 43
M.
Marshall's Patent Sectional
Feeding Bottle 441
Mason Science College, Bir-
mingham, The 251
Materia Medica, How to Study
the, by A. C. Pope, MJD. ... 204
Materia Medica, Studies in, by
Dr. Dyce Brown 658
McCouBT, Dr., A Case of Hy-
dronephrosis 478
Medical Acts Commission 441
Medical and Surgical Aid
Society, The Lee and
Blackheath 760
Medical Consultations* 308
Medical Digest, Dr. Neale's,
for 1882 700
Medical Hypocrisy 250
Medical Orthodoxy and Medi-
cal Bigotzy 305
Medical Profession and Lord
Beaconsfield, The 304
Medical Services, A New
Method of Bemuneration for 708
Medical Student, The Modem 701
Medicine, The Dawn of Free-
dom of Opinion in 649
Medicines, On the Preparation
and Dispensing of HomoBO-
pathic, by Dr. Hayward 40
Memorial of the late President
Garfield at the Boston Uni-
versity School of Medicine,
The 691
Memoriid, The Hering 249
Mexico, The Progress of
HomcBopathy in 51
Micropathy 446
MOOBB, J. MUBBAT, M.D.,
Homoeopathy in the Colonies 237
Morning Drams 628
Morrisson, Dr., Notes on Nor-
mandy, by 34, 96
N.
National Wealth and National
Health, The Conneetion
Between, by Dr. Blnmbeig 828
Xbuaor
Xcflew. Dee. 1,
INDEX.
TU
PAOB
NxAUB*B, Dr., Medical Digest
lor 1883 700
Hearal-AnalyBis, On, by W. D.
Butcher, Esq 287
JBformandj, Notes on, by Dr.
HonijKon 84, 96
0.
Obstacles in our Path.... 129
Ciganon, The 186
•Ovaxian Tomonr, Two cases of,
by J. J. Talbot, M.D 281
Ovuian Cyst, Dr, E. Madden,
on 474
OairniLBy: —
Dalziell, David Brainerd,
M.D 710
Laurie, WilliamForbe8,MJ>. 190
Leadam, Thomas B., M.D. 644
Bobertscm, H., Esq 711
Tndge. T. Hale. M.D.... 7U, 763
WilUaioas, C, Esq 765
P.
Past Year, The 1
Pasteub, M., on the (}erm
Theory 744
Pathology, Belation of, to
Therapeutics, by G. S.
Campbell, M.D 693
Perambulators 880
Perityphilitic'Abficess, by T. E.
Pnrdom, M.D 226
PhoapharvM in Pneumonia and
Softening of the Bndn, by
Br. W. Arnold 665
Fhyaeians and Homoeopaths 818
PttyBtciaas to George m. 708
jPofo^A, Bichromate of^ (hi the.
By A. 0. Pope. M.D 6
PhytoHacea, On, by A. C. Pope,
MJ) 899
JHcrotoxin and Coeeoku Indi-
eu$f Prodnoing and Cnxing
Epilep^, On, by Dr. Jonsset 104
^leumonia, Phoiphofui in, by
Dr. W. Arnold ^ 666
Pops, Dr., How to Stu4y the
Materia Medioa, by 204
Pora, Dr., on the BichromaU
tfPotoih 6
PoPB, Dr., on PkytaUtcea 899
PAOB
Popx, Dr., A Beview of Points
of Besemblance in the Phy-
siological Action and Thera-
peutic Uses of Certain Drags 719
Pniter Prize ef Thirty Ponnds,
The 126
Predisposition, by W. Sharp,
M.D., f.xi.D*. ..>.•••• 74, 187
Prize Essays 627
Prize, The Prater 126
Prize, The Epps 700
Pbosll, Dr., Clinical Observa-
tions, by 698
Prof essional Advertismg 188
Preving, Allopathic, of Iodine
in Goitre 881
PuBDov. T. E., M.D., Peri-
typhilitic Abscess, by 226
Pnrgatiyes 760
Q.
Queen, The, and Medical
W<»nen 622
B.
Binger, Dr. Sidney, and Ho-
moeopathy 49
Bsvuews: —
Abridged Therapeutics,
founded upon Histology
and Cellular Pathology,
with an Appendix, by
W. H. Schussler 247
A Guide to the Clinical Ex-
amination of Patients ... 687
Dress: Its Sanitary Aspect,
bvBemard Both, F.B.C.S.
Eng. 1880
Drug Attenuation 44
Ecce Medious; or Eic^e-
mann as a Man and as a
Physician, by J. Compton
Burnett, M.D 182
Entdeckungen auf dem
Ctebiete der Natur und der
Heilkunde. Die Chxo-
nisohe Erankheiten, von
Dr. Ignar Peczely 480
Inflammation, chiedly of the
Middle Ear, and other
Diseases of the Ear, by
Bobert T. Cooper, M.D.... 299
Is Consumption Contagious?
and can it be Transmitted
by means of Food? By
Herbert C. Clapp, A.M.,
M.D 297
Tin
INDEX.
IConthly HamoBopathio-
Beview, Dec. 1, 1881 .
PAOB
Sbtibwb: —
Materia Medica Para, by
Samnel Hahnemazm,
Translated by B. E.
Dudgeon, M.D 180
On the Medicinal Treatment
of Diseases of the Veins,
by J. Gompton Burnett,
MJ)., &c
Prize Essay on Diphtheria,
By A. McNiel, MJ) 425
Sewage Poisoning, its Causes
and Cure, by Edward T.
Blake, MJ)., M.B.C.S. ... 480
Surgical Diseases and their
Homoeopathic Treatment,
by J. C. Gilchrist, M.D.... 128
The Feeding and Manage-
ment of Children, and tiie
Home Treatment of their
Diseases, by T. 0. Dun-
can, M.D 296
The Homoeopathic Physician,
A Monthly Journal of
Medical Science 618
The Medical Attendance on
Poor and Bioh in London
and other large English
Towns, compared with the
same in Puris and other
Towns, by Dr. Both 123
Transactions of the World's
Homoeopathic Convention,
1876 612
Transactions of the Inter-
national Homoeopa^c
Conyention, 1881 760
Useful Hints to aid Workers
among the Poor and Sick 858
Tisiting List, Faulkner's ••• 754
Sanitary Association, Ladies 698
Soarlatma, Cases Selected from
Practice, by Dr. John
Drommond 278
Sea-Sickness, by B. N. Foster,
M.D 678
Shabpb, William, MJ).,F JLS.,
The Cure of Diseases by
Medicines, by 458
SHABPa,WlLLIA]f , M J).,F.B.S. ,
Predisposition, by 74, 187
Shsabbb, Thokas, M J)., Clin-
ical Observations on Oyda-
men Europeum, by 29^
PAOX.
Silicated Carbon Begistered
Ascension Filters 818
Sdcpson, T., M.D., A Case of
Hemophilia, by 291
Small-poz and Vaccination,
Statistics of 622.
Smith, Pbothebob, M.D., A
Case of Poisoning with
Bellttdormat by 685-
Society for the -Prevention of
Blindness 188
Sponges 761
StateHonours to Homoeopaths 190
Stokbs, Adbian, M.D., Heart
Symptoms, by 411
Strychnia and Nitro-Strychnia 444
Studies in the Materia Medica,
by Dr. Dyce Brown 658^
T.
Teeth Ertraotion, without
Consent 881
Temperature, Automatic Begis-
tration of Body 707
Testimonial to Lord Ebury 489, 515
Therapeutics, The Present
State of 814
Therapeutics, The Belation of
Pathology to, by C. S.
Campbell, MJ) 598^
Transactions of the World*s
Homoeopathic Convention,
1876 61»
Transactions of the Inter-
national Homoeopathic
Convention, 1881 750
Typhoid Fever at Bristol 694, 76&
V.
Vaccination and Small-poz«
Statistics of 622^
Vaccination in China 708
Vaccination with Calf Lymph 252
Viola Tricolor, or Jaeea,
W. H. Bigler, M.D., on 421
W.
Williams, Lemubl E.,
M.B.C.S., Eng., Clinical
Cases of Bright's Disease, 1^ 156i
WnfSLow, W. H., M.D.,
AjBtheaopia 674.
' n !
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW.
THE PAST YEAR.
It is an excellent and si^utaiy thing at certain great
epochs in life to look back on the past, consider oar short-
comings and oar progress, and from this stndy to tarn oar
thooghts onward to the fatare, profiting by the lessons of
the past, and hackling on oar armoor for work to come.
The end of one year and the beginning of the next forms
one of the most fitting seasons for sach reflections. We
learn to estimate oar whereaboats as regards oarselves and
oar neighboars at the end of an interval comparatively
shorty and yet safficient in the race of life to jnstify a paase
for retrospect. We, as it were, stop and take a breath
before proceeding on oar next stage.
It has been remarked of nations that one is happy and
piosperons in proportion as there is little eventfal to record
in the year. So, to a certain extent, is this trae of
individuals and commnnities. Certain years may be
fraught with important events, which caase apheavals
and revelations, and stand forth in history, bat for qaiet
progress and prosperity an aneventfal year is perhaps of
more real importance, and may bear more traly valuable
Ho. 1, Yo). 25. B
THE PAST YEAE. ^?S.^*?Pf^"
Beyiew, Jan. 1, 1881 .
•and permanent fruits. Snch an nneventfnl year has been
the past one of 1880. There is little of importance to
record, either with regret or with exultation. Bat none the
less has it, we believe, been one of steady and quiet
progress. Our public institutions pursue the even tenor
of their way. The London Homoeopathic Hospital is now,
thanks chiefly to the munificent bequest of the late Dr.
QuiN, in a pecuniary state which sets the mind of
the Committee of Management at ease. There are
schemeB afloat for the enlargement of the hos-
pital, so that it shall contain 120 beds. We sincerely
trust that the active and energetic promoters of this scheme
will be successful, but meantime things go on very
smoothly, and without the strain which existed a short
time ago, and perplexed the Board of Management.
Through the munificence of one lady, six beds, called after
her the '^ Durning" beds, are now in constant use, chiefly
for the treatment of cases requiring a longer residence in
the hospital than the ordinary arrangements admit of.
We should rejoice to see this munificent example followed
by others, of whom there are many, to whom the gift of a
few hundreds a year would be only a small item in their
yearly expenditure. The other hospitals and dispensaries
in the kingdom are all flourishing in their quiet way ; the
Habnemann Convalescent Home at Bournemouth is in full
working order, and is productive of much benefit to the
poDr, who would otherwise be unable to obtain the advan-
tage, often a question of life and death, of a mild winter
clknate.
Before leaving the subject of the hospitals, it may be
well to draw the attention of some of our confrireBt who
will persist in Tepeating what had been remarked in some
former years as to the elass of oases admitted into the
London Homoeopathic Hospital^ to the actual state of afiiBiirs.
S^jSTSf^ THE PAST YEAE.
'This statement was that few cases of an acate or serious
nature were there treated. Whatever of truth there may
have been for this assertion in some former years^ a glance
«t the list of cases in the hospital reports, and published
^gain in a letter by one of the physicians in reply to a mis-
statement to the same effect by Dr. EninmDS at the open-
ing of the new Temperance Hospital, will show how untrue
•isuch an accusation is.
The class of cases will compare with that of any other
liospital, while, compared with those treated in the Tem-
perance Hospital, which Dr. Edmunds attempted to
set up as a model, the latter is nowhere; And yet we find
this same thing said by men of our own school, who ought
to know better, and who, if ignorant of the truth, have
themselves to blame, for not having taken the trouble to
read the list of cases appended to the Annual Beport.
During the year 1880, we have the means of knowing
ihat an unusually interesting and serious run of cases has
been under treatment. And yet the mortality is lower,
even by Dr. Edmunds' own admission, than that of any
other metropolitan hospital; and this, not only in the
year past, but on an average of the past ten years. That
this should be so is almost marvellous, considefing the
Tery unsatisfactory condition of the drainage which was dis-
covered to have existed. Thanks to the energy of the
Board, the system of drainage is now as perfect as modern
science can render it. The hospital was closed, to accom-
plish this end, for a whole month, entailing a heavy
expense^ to defray which strenuous efforts are to be
made.
The London School of HomoBopathy is working on in the
even tenor of its way, in spite of obstacles and many
discouragements; most of the latter^ we regret to say,
coming from members of our own section in medicine. Why
4 THE PAST TEAB. '^SSlL^ir'?^*
Beriew, Jan. 1, 1881*
this should be so, we are at a loss to nnderstand* One
would think that in so catholic an undertaking as a school
for the public teaching and spread of homcBopathy, all
would vie in lending a helping hand and an encouraging
word. Were this so, the frequent discussions as to
the best means of rendering it more efficient than it
is, would result in much more good than, unfortunately,
they do. The want of a real, friendly, true, and
sympathetic interest is, we regret to say it, only too visible
in certain quarters. We sincerely hope that in our
retrospect of 1881 we shall have a different report to make
in regard to this young institution, capable of being so
useful in the spread and ultimate success of those doctrines
we all have at heart. Into the merits of the various
schemes for the advancement of the school we do not here
enter, as we have from time to time in our columns
criticised them, while giving full scope for free discussion
on all sides. We have this year to regret the resigna-
tion, by Dr. Bichard Hughes, of his lectureship on
Materia Medica and Therapeutics, owing to pressure of
private practice. In his place the governors have appointed
Dr. Pope. Dr. Hughes has, however, consented to
give a summer course of lectures on the principles of
HomoBopathy. At the opening of the present winter
session the usual introductory lecture was replaced by the
first of a series of '^ Hahnemann " orations or lectures,
the Committee of Management having resolved to appoint
a ** Hahnemann " lecturer each year. The object of these
lectures is to bring into more prominent notice the dis-
covery of the law of similars, and the bearings of Hahne-
mann's eventful life on the system of homoeopathy, and so
to form a perpetual memento of his great genius. Dr. J.
GoMPTON Burnett, who was chosen the lecturer for
the present year^ delivered an able address, which was
^BS^.fSHtH^ THE PAST YEAB.
listened to with nmch interest, and which, we understand,
is to appear completed in the form of a book.
The annual Congress of HomoBopathic Practitioners was
held in September, at Leeds, nnder the presidency of Dr.
YbiiDHAIC. The papers read were interesting and instrac-
iiye, and gave fall scope for discussion. The meeting was,
bj all who were present, reckoned a most successful one.
The Tarious papers, with the subsequent discussions, will
he found in our pages for October and November.
As to our relations with the old school, we haye not much
to record. Feeble ebullitions of the old deeply-rooted hatred
of homoaopaihy have occurred, the feeblest, as Well as the
most prominent, beingthat of the Royal College of Surgeons
of Ireland. We lately noticed this folly in one of our
leading articles, and so pass it by with a smile of pity and
contempt for such an attempt to establish the tyranny of
a trades-union in a so-called liberal profession in the
nineteenth century. On the other hand, the pages of the
old school journals, every now and then, testify to the
gradual leavening of the profession by our doctrines, in
spite of the openly-expressed distaste for them. Why
certain of the old school should in these days of freedom of
opinion allow themselves to conceal, not to say vilify, what
they know to be true, their practice showing that they know
it to be true, is marvellous to us, and will one day form a
curious chapter in the history of medicine. Meantime the
leaven is working, and must ultimately leaven the ** whole
lump."
We are fortunate in having during the past year a very
small obituary, although in it appear -the names of two
very eminent Americans — Constantinb HsBiNa and
Hbmfbl. Both were very hard workers, both did a vast
deal for homodopathy, both are much missed, and both
have written their names imperishably in the annals of
6 BICHROMATE OF POTASH. ^S^wfjSf*ifi»i!
madicine. Now that they are gone from ns we can look
back on their lives with admiration and veneration, and
hold them Up as models^ which it should be our aim to
study and copy.
In our own country we have had only two deaths to record^
Dr, Henbiqubs and Mr. Tate. They were both hard-working
practitioners, who, though not making their names widely
known as those great men of the sister country of America,.
yet labonred successfully in their daily calling, and were
beloved by their patients and numerous friends. We
sincerely trust that our next year's list of losses by death
will be as small. Every one is missed, however unobtrusive
his course of life has been.
ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION
AND THERAPEUTIC USES OF
THE BICHROMATE OP POTASH.*
By Alfred C. Pope, M.D.
Lecturer on Materia Medica at the London School of Homcepathy.
Fob the study of this drug we have, perhaps, fuller and
more adequate details at our disposal than we have for
that of any other. The proving of the Bichromate of
Potash, by Dr. Drjsdale, which contains nearly every
known pathogenetic fact regarding it, is a model of what Sr
drug-proving ought to be. It is published in the Hahne-
mann Materia Medica, Part I., and deserves the careful
study of every practitioner of medicine. Dr. Drysdale has
here brought together, in a thoroughly scientific manner^
the observations of twenty-three male, and seven female
voluntary experimenters with this salt, and a large number
of well-substantiated and carefully examined cases of
poisoning by it. Added to these, are a number of experi-
ments on some of the lower animals, with a statement of
the morbid appearances they presented after death ; while
to the detail of the symptoms produced, a summary of tho
physiological action of the drug, and a series of illustrations
of its therapeutic uses are appended. Had all the medicines-
now used been examined as carefully and elaborately as.
Dr. Drysdale has examined the bichromate of potash, the
* A Lecture delivered at the London School of HomoBpathy Deo. 5th»
1880.
iSSSfSTMa!*^ BICHROMATE OF POTASH. 7
iroric of the stndent of therapeoticB would be both plea-
santer and ampler, and the duties of a leotnrer on Materia
Medica, very sensibly lightened.
Dr. Diysdale's article appeared in 1851, and, together
with his own enquiries, contained those of the Austrian
Society. The article on this salt in Allen's Eneyclopadia
gives these researches, and, in addition, a few observations
and cases of poisoning that have been recorded of late years.
In the Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia, the German desig-
nation of this salt — Kali Bichromicum — ^is retained.
The bichromate of potash is essentially, indeed, I may
say exclusively, a tissue-irritant, and as such, its action is
exerted upon the skin, the mucous surface of the mouth,
throat, larynx, trachea and bronchi, the oesophagus, stomach
and intestinal tube. It also exercises a well-defined and
powerful influence upon the liver and kidneys, as well as
upon some of the joints and the periosteum.
Dr. Drysdale has observed that its influence is most
marked in &t and &ir-haired persons ; and that many of
the symptoms it occasions are most pronounced in hot
weather.
On the nervous system, save indirectly, this salt appears
to have little influence. The headache, which accompanies
the gastric and intestinal symptoms characterising its
action, is a vertigo, followed by aching across the forehead,
aggravated by stooping and moving.
Independently, however, of its action on other parts of
the body, it excites a well-de£ned supra orbital neuralgia,
characterised by violent shooting pains from the root of the
nose along the left orbital arch to the external angle of the
eye with dimness of sight. The pain begins in the morn-
ing, increases until noon, and goes away towards evening.
In each instance, in which this kind of neuralgia was felt,
it was on the left side.
The catarrhal-like condition set up by the bichromate of
potash is very well marked in the mucous tissues of
the eye ball. Thus, we find burning and smarting of the
eyelids, in the canthi, and the cmruncula lachrymalis.
The conjunctiva oculi is reddened, presently the palpebral
conjunctiva becomes so too. On waking in the morning
the eyelids are agglutinated, and yellowish matter accumu-
lates at the angles. Pustules, small white elevations,
surrounded by a good deal of redness, form on the
conjunctiva of the left eye towards the inner canthus.
8 BICHBOMATB OF POTABH. *'^^S^J.?5Sf?^**
Beriew. Jaa.1, 1881.
While these conditions are present, vision is dim, and there
is a dread of light, especially towards evening.
These symptoms, which are very characteristic of the
action of liiis salt, indicate it as a remedy in catarrhal
ophthalmia, and especially as it appears in stramons and
syphilitic subjects, while its clinical value in such cases
has been amply and most satisfactorily tested.
The following case recorded by Dr. Drysdale in the 16th
volume of The British Journal of Homoeopathy illustrates
one form of ophthalmia in which the bichromate is a very
useful medicine : —
Mr. W., eet. 29. Has been subject to inflammation of the eye
from childhood. Has had syphilis three times ; the last time
four years before, and was treated with mereury, and salivated.
He had gonorrhoea a year before. In the middle of July he was
attacked with inflammation of the right eye, and it continued to
increase, but he had not put himself under any treatment for fear
of the bleeding and salivation he had undergone on former
occasions. On Uie 29th of August he came to me suffering from
great pain in the head, and over the right eye, with excessive
flow of tears and intolerance of light, so that it was difficult to
obtain a good view of the state of the eye. The sclerotic was
deeply injected and iris muddy ; the conjunctiva injected, and a
large white opaque spongy looking speck in the middle of the
cornea, to winch red vessels ran across the clear part. Up to the
18th September he got sulphur, belladonna^ and then spigeliaf
with some relief to the pains in the head, but the symptoms of
the eye remained the same. He now got gr. i of the first
decimal trituration of the kali bichrom., to be dissolved in fourteen
spoonfuls of water, and one taken every six hours. Under this
he improved rapidly, and to such a degree that on the 27th the
eye was nearly free from signs of inflammation, and the speck and
vessels supplying it were less. He got no medicine till the 2nd
October, and then the speck remained the same, with watering
of the eye on attempting to use it ; he got hepar, followed in
due course by mere, euphras,, and thuja, with progressive
improvement of the speck.
The same catarrhal-like state is observed on the mucous
surface of the nose ; but here it seems to be deeper and to
disorganise the septum and nasal bones to some extent.
We also notice sneezing, with a discharge of clear water
from the nose, aggravated on going into the open air. The
nose then becomes sore and red, and there is either a total
loss of the sense of smell or a consciousness of a foetid
odour &om it. With this catarrh there is oppressive head-
rSJS^JSTmSl^ bichromate op potash. 9
ache, often followed by more or less profuse epistaxis.
After a time the nose becomes sore and dry.
In those cases where the inflammation was more intense
great pain and tenderness were felt at the junction of the
cartilage, and the septum was ulcerated quite through.
The nose became obstructed by the repeated formation of
bard elastic plugs, called by workers in bichromate of potash
^' cUnkers."
In many cases of ordinary catarrh, still more in certain
epidemics of influenza, and again in syphilitic disease of the
nose, this salt has been found of great value. It is chiefly
in cases where, with great stuffiness of the nose, headache
And epistaxis are especially prominent that it will be pre-
ferable to other drugs, having a catarrh-like action on the
nasal mucous membrane.
A case is related by Dr. Drysdale (op. cit) which is a
good example of the kind of chronic inflammation of the
Schneiderian membrane in which bichromate of potash is
remedial. The details are as follows : —
Mrs. H., let. 50. Had always been subject to colds in the
head, and determination of blood to the head. About two years
before she had a severe inflaenza, and from that time she dates
her present symptoms. The catamenia ceased about two years
^o also.
March 2l8t, 1858. Complains of constant discharge of thick
jellow matter from the left nostril, mostly early in the morning,
and having a foetid smell after any fresh cold. She has also a
severe pain np the mascles of the left side of the neck to one
ffinall spot in the side of the head, brought on and aggravated by
blowing the nose. In the left nostril, half way up, there is a
severe smarting pain extending to the malar bone below the eye.
There is little sneezing, and no perversion of the sense of smell.
The general health is good, except that the bowels are costive
and tongue white.
Ptescrip' i. — Kali bich.j 6, 8, 6, 2, 6, 6, a powder of each
dilation r cession, one powder every second day, dissolved
in four spoc . ^ of water, and one to be taken night and morn-
ing. There wik. also given a lotion composed of half a grain of
the neutral chromate to the ounce of water, to be snuffed up the
nostril twice a day. On the 5th April she was much better than
for two years. The pain was quite gone for some days, although
she had a slight fresh cold ; the discharge is much less copious,
and is tiun, and without foatid smell. The pain in the neck and
head and malar bone gone. The medicine was repeated, and at
the expiration of the second course she was well.
10 BICHBOMATE OF POTASH. "^SSJwfjSTTffii^
In the 24th yolmne of the British Journal of Hovfuxo-
pathy, Dr. Bansford gives the particulars of a very inter-
esting case, showing tiie power of this salt over disease of
the nasal passages having a malignant aspect : —
The patient was a gentlemen, eighty-two years of age, who had
resided for thirty years in India, where he had had two attacks of
fever and one of cholera. Baring the two years previous to the
illness Dr. Bansford refers to, he had had diarrhoea and bron-
chitis on two or three occasions. In the autumn of 1864 Dr.
Bansford saw him on account of a highly vascular, spongy texture
in the right nostril, distending it, and apparently growing upwards.
After a few weeks it travelled slowly downwards, and protruded
externally. The left nostril became affected in the same way ;
the soft parts of the alas nasi were involved, but the bony
structure was unaffected, and there was but very slight and
occasional muco-purulent discharge. His nurses stated that the
discharge was offensive. Occasionally there were severe paroxysms
of lancinating pain in the affected parts, sufficiently acute to
make the poor man cry out loudly ; deglutition was unaffected,
and the soft palate likewise, but by the continued growth of the
tumours, and by their constant pressure, the neighbouring soft
parts were absorbed, and considerable disfigurement was the
result. Speech was not miuch affected, except that the voice
was rather hoarse. He was now seen by Sir James (then Mr.)
Paget, who simply prescribed cleanliness and a generous diet,
botii of which suggestions had been anticipated. He was also
seen by Dr. Sanderson, formerly of the Bengal army, who con-
sidered the case hopeless. Up to this time the medicine most
frequently given had been arsenic, in various dilutions, but
without any apparent effect on the ulceration process. Dr.
Bansford now prescribed the bichromate of potash in the third
dilution, both internally and externally, by means of a glass
syringe. Most unexpectedly, the progress of the disease was
gradually but visibly checked; healthy granulation took the
place of phagedenic ulceration, which never recurred. He lived
many months after the healing process was accomplished."
The catarrhal-like inflammation extends downwards
to the larynx and bronchi. Thus, following the symp-
toms of nasal catarrh, we have in the larynx, pain in
the sides, the nape of the neck, and left shoulder ; the
throat looks inflamed and red around the tonsils. Then
follows cough with sputa, free, thick and slaty in colour,
and some dyspnoea, with a sensation of dryness in the
bronchi. We find also great tickling in the larynx, caus-
ing cough at every inspiration, hoarseness, tightness of the
chest, especially at the bifurcation of the trachea — ^increase
SSSi?2rrSS^ bichkomatb of potash. 11
of cough, with frequent hawking np of thick, tongh,
yellowish, whitish, mncns. In another case the laiynx was
still more affected. A sense of pressiye aching was
followed hy tickling, which extended to the throat and
ears, and at night amounted to burning and scraping in
the throat, and upper part of the larynx.
Among the workpeople, whose cases were studied by Dr.
Diysdale, the bronchial symptoms were more marked than
the laryngeal.
Gases of bronchitis have certain fundamental symp-
toms conunon to all of them, but you must not, you
cannot, with success, base your prescription upon these.
Because a drug gives rise to a state similar to bronchitis,
it does not follow that it will cure all cases of that disease*
It is only that kind of bronchitis, that particular attack,
where the symptoms are like — and the nearer like the
better — those a given drug will produce, that you can
expect to cure with that drug. It is from the want of
recognition of this &ct that so many &ilures occur in
endeavouring to put the homosopathic theoiy into practice.
It is from the same cause that disappointment so often
arises in testing the assertions, frequently met with now-
a-days in works on Materia Medica^ which have originally
been obtained from the observations of homoeopathic
physicians — assertions which are true enough in them-
selves, but only true when applied with the precision
which a careful application of the law of similars involves*
To say, therefore, that bichromate of potash will cure
bronchitis is true enough, but it is only a half-truth — one
that requires to be supplemented by a description of the
kind of bronchitis of which it is remedial. Hence, I will en-
deavour to point out to you, with some degree of minuteness,
the bronchial condition to which this salt is homoeopathic.
In the first place, it generally commences with a catarrh,
which has travelled down the mucous membrane from the
nose or throat into that lining the bronchi or bronchial
tubes. The cough is loud and harsh, worse in the morning
and attended with expectoration of i<mgh mucus. This
mucus is in various stages of degeneration, sometimes
white, at others dark, even blackish, at others yellow ; but
it is invariably tough and difficult to detach, and capable
of being drawn out into long strings. At the same time,
there are pain, weight, and soreness at the chest, with
marked dyspnoea and oppression.
12 BIOHBOMATE OP POTASH. ^^S^fSTTlJSl?
If, at the same time, yonr patient presents symptoms of
indigestion, and a disordered state of the biliary ftmction,
as indicated by a tongue thickly coated with yellow fori
weight at the epigastrium, sour and flatulent eructations
and constipation, this medicine will be still more clearly
indicated, and you may prescribe it with the fullest confi-
dence of doing good.
From this account you will see that it is mostly in cases
of sub-acute and chronic bronchitis, with a low type of
inflammation, tending, as it were, to ulceration, that this
salt is useful.
In laryngitis, too, it is well indicated, and has
proved most serviceable. I do not think that it is ordin-
arily useful in croup. At the same time, here also, we
meet with cases where it is indicated and has proved cura-
4dve. Dr. W. E. Payne, an American physician, writing
some thirty years ago, described an epidemic of croup as
occurring in the town where he lived, in which the medi-
cines he had commonly found useful, had utterly failed
liim. A study of the pathogenesis of bichromate of potash
led him to prescribe it, and with this alteration in his pre-
scription the tide turned, and his patients recovered. As I
read his account of the epidemic now, it appears to me to have
been one of diphtheria, and not of that membranous croup
which is encountered by aconite, spongia, or iodine and
Jiepar. In this epidemic, the characteristic symptoms of
the cases, in which the bichromate was successful, were
their low type of inflammation, the restlessness of the
x^hild, the plugging of the left nostril with thick white
mucus, and the covering of the tonsils with a thick white
tenacious mucus. As I have said, it is probable that they
were in reality what we should call diphtheria ; and, in
.some instances of this disease of a specially low type, and
iwhere we have an imperfect, ill-developed, false mem-
brane occupying the nares, as well as the throat, bichro-
mate of potash has frequently been useful.
The pharyngeal symptoms, produced by this salt, are indi-
cative of a low type of ulceration. Besides the usual stinging
and sore pains in the tonsils, we have objective signs of
great value. The uvula is elongated ; on the fore part of
the palate are single circumscribed spots of the size of a
barleycorn, coloured red, as if little ulcers were about to
form; a long continued erythematous blush covered the
B^fj^nSn!^ BIOHBOMATB OP POTASH. 1»
fauces and soft palate. In another case, the avula and
tonsils became red, and swollen, and paanfal, and finally
nlcerated. This man, a workman in ohromate of potash
works, was seen by a surgeon, and his symptoms were by
him attributed to syphilis. It is in syphilitic disease of
the throat that this salt has proved one of the most effi-
cient of remedies. In simple catarrhal ulceration, and in
ulcers arising from the presence of the syphilitic poison
you may very frequently obtain the best results from it.
In poisoning by the bichromate of potash, the diges-
tiye apparatus is thoroughly disordered. The tongue is
thickly coated, posteriorly especially, with a yellowish or
yellowish-white fur, when the gastric symptoms alone are
present; when the inflammation proceeds further down,
and we have gastro-enteritis, it is dry and dark-brown
furred ; when intestinal ulceration has been set up, it is
smooth, red and cracked.
Salivation is also prominent, and at the same time
thirsty and a coppery, sour, bitter taste, especially after
meals. Ulceration of the buccal membrane and of the
tongue are equally marked symptoms.
Nausea and vomiting are constant symptoms of the dis-
ordered state of the stomach induced ; a state that may be des-
cribed as varying from a simple catarrhal dyspepsia, to abso-
lute gastritis and ulceration. The nausea of the bichromate oi
potash is worse on motion, produces a sense of faintness,
and an uneasy, painful sensation in the stomach, with a
sense of weariness. It was by several provers compared to
that of sea sickness. The vomiting is attended with pres-
sive^ burning pains in the stomach. The matter vomited
was yellow, bitter and bilious in some instances, in others
clear and watery, and in others bright arterial blood. The
vomiting was accompanied by giddiness, a burning pain in
the head, and cold perspiration on the hands and other
parts of the body.
Taste is perverted, being metallic, coppery, saltish, sour
or bitter. Thirst is generally considerable, but in one
instance the gratification of the desire for water was
followed immediately by an increase of nausea. Appetite
for food is generally destroyed, and always capricious. A
meal is followed by nausea, eructations, gastric distension,
and increased flow of saliva. The pain in the stomach
after food deserves marked attention. It comes on soon
after taking food, commonly within half-an-hour. Its
14 BIGHBOKATE OF POTASH. "SS^^lKuiaa!
chancter Taries with the dose taken, being in some
inatanoes violent and bnining, in others resembling a
sense of diatension. It is situated oyer the great cnrva-
tnre of the stomach, some three inches below the ensifoim
cartilage and, after its subsidence; there frequently remains
a soreness on pressore. In nearly all instances the pain
is attended with Tomiting.
As I remarked just now, these symptoms all point to
the power of bichromate of potash to give rise to Tarions
degrees of irritability of the stomach of a kind similar to
thfl^ met with in some forms of dyspepsia of the catarrhal
order, of well marked gastritis, and of erosion, if not of
actual ulceration of the stomach. The post mortem appear-
ances obtained from experiments on the lower animals
show that these are the forms of disease which are
produced. Moreover, just as the symptoms observed in
the human subject would suggest, the bulk of the
mischief is at the cardiac end of the stomach. Dr. Drysdale,
in his original paper on this drug, published in an
appendix to the British Journal of Homoeopathy, says, ''At
the cardiac orifice and central portions of the stomach were
extensive chocolate coloured superficial ulcerations. The
pyloric extremity was more healthy."
In Fig. 2 of the plate accompanying this paper, you will
see the kind of destruction wrought by the bichromate in
the cardiac extremity of the stomach of a dog.
Producing little or no irritation around the pylorus,
bichromate of potash sets up considerable irritation in the
duodenum, the colon, and rectum. In the duodenum, this
is especially well marked. Post-mortem appearances have
displayed inflammation extending to ulceration. The
symptoms of provers, likewise, the pain and tenderness in
the upp^ portion of the abdomen, the vomiting of exces-
sively bilious fluid, and the diarrhoea, suggest the presence
of irritation in this part of the intestinal canal. Duodenitis
is rare as an idiopathic disease, though not unfrequently
met with after severe bums ; while catarrhal inflammation
of this part is not an uncommon cause of jaundice, a condi-
tion which, though not set up in fall by this salt, is one
the initiative stage of which, the marked pain in the Uver
and the pale stools produced by it, hint that it does give
rise to. Hence in the duodenitis following bums, and in
the duodenal catarrh, which precedes some cases of jaun-
dieoi the bichrdmate will be indicated and found usefm.
Jtl^SmS^ BICHROMATE OF POTASH. 15
Beriav, Jan. 1, IBBk.
Both the symptoms observed daring life and the pott*
mortem appearances afford evidence of severe enteritis being
occasioned by the bichromate. Abdominal pain is violenti
pinching and sore ; the abdomen is sensitive to the least
pressore; frequent bloody motions, with gnawing pain at
the navel, and ineffectual straining after stool, have been
observed; the tongue is red, smooth, and cracked ; all these
symptoms point to enteritis of a severe type. Associated
with them we have a certain amount of fever. The skin is
hot and dry ; heat alternates with cold ; and in instances
where the symptoms were especially painful and severe
there was the sweat of exhaustion. In experiments with
dogs, pogt-^mortem examination showed redness of the
mucous membrane of the ileo-c(Bcal valve with blackish
spots upon it ; the colon and rectum were also reddened.
In its action upon the colon and rectum, bichromate of
potash strikingly resembles corrosive sublimate. In the
former the pain is less burning than in the latter ; the
discharges of blood neither so frequent or profuse, and the
prostration is less considerable. It is in the less severe forms
of dysentery that the bichromate has been most frequently
used ; but in all cases of that disease it is a medicine de-
serving of careful consideration when prescribing.
The action of this salt on the liver is fairly well marked
by the symptoms it produces, but still more so in the posU
mortem appearances that have been noted.
Thus in' the Hahnemann Materia Medicay Dr. Drysdale
gives the following summary of the appearances found in
some of the lower animals poisoned by it.
'' In two the liver was dark brown, very friable, and fall of
blood. In most the gall bladder was full of bile. In another the
surface presented the appearance of alternate very dark and pale
patches. The section had a mottled appearance. Scattered
over both surfaces were numerous spots of a whitish yellow
coloor about the size of a pea, slightly depressed, and of a softer
consistence than the surrounding structure. When out into they
were found to extend into the sabstance of the gland in a globu-
lar form. In a fourth both surfaces of the liver were studded
with yeBowish spots of a spherical shape, the size of large peas,
reaclnng from one quarter to half an inch into the substance of
the gland. Where they touch the sur&ce there is a slight de«
pression or indentation showing a loss of substance. They are
of a softer iientisteiioe than ilie sunrounding parenchyma."
It maybe diffietdt to recognise such a condition during
life, beet it is foreshadowed by the pain in the region of
16 BICHROMATE OP POTASH. "S^.^fifiM!
the liver, an ansBinic cachectic appearance, and the absence
of bile in the stools.
When associated with the dyspeptic symptoms character-
istic of the bichromate, acnte chsorder of the liTor will often
be mnch benefited by this salt.
The bichromate of potash, therefore, yon will think of
when yon meet with cases of simple catarrhal dyspepsia,
especially when the catarrhal inflnence pervades the entire
mncons tract, in ulceration of the stomach at the cardiac
end thereof, in inflammation of the duodenum after bums,
in gastro-enteritis and dysentery as well as in some obscure
cases of hepatic disease.
The congested condition of the kidney is sufficiently
well marked by the symptoms noted in provers, and is
very well pronounced in post-mortem examinations.
Pain in the loins, knife-like, and aching, with frequent
desire to micturate, but with only scanty, and in some
instances no result, are common in provers of large doses.
With these symptoms of kidney disturbance, we have
vertigo and other pains in the head.
I am not aware that albumen has been found in the
urine as the result of taking this salt, but that the kidney
is congested, and the secretion of urine is suppressed by it is
beyond doubt. Dr. Drysdale utilised these indications
with admirable efTect in the epidemic of cholera, which
prevailed in Liverpool thirty years ago. The suppression
of urine, which occurred in so many instances was generally
rapidly relieved by the bichromate.
The irritant action of this salt upon the skin is espe-
cially well marked, while its use as a remedy in some
forms of ulceration has been most encouraging. This
irritant action, be it observed, is not merely local, not
merely the consequence of direct application to the part,
but is excited when introduced into the body by inhalation
or through the mouth ; while, in those cases where it has
been set up by direct contact, the eruption, and consequent
ulceration, is not confined to the part where the direct con-
tact occurred, but is dififased over the body. Subjective
symptoms of skin irritation were frequently noted in volun-
tary provers and, in one or two, such as are objective also.
Burning and itching of the face and body ; burning on the
outside of the leg, are characteristic of the former. The
following symptom is from the late Dr. Butherfurd Bussell's
contribution to Dr. Drysdale's, proving : ''On the night of
aSSSr^STS^'' BIOriBOMATE OP P^OTASH. 17
^e 2nd h6 had coniiideriEkble itc&ing of the hairy parts of the
genitals ; it increased to inflammation of the skin, and
tiie formation of about twenty pustules, the size of pin
heads, which were clustered in the space of a square inch.
Next day it continued till day, an^ was very troublesome,
oauaing him to scratch constantly. On the 4th and 5th
the pustules formed little ulcers, and ran together into one
which discharged matter ; and there were serere shootings
in it, waking him at night. It healed up in five or six days."
These symptoms describe a pustular eruption, tending
to ooiEdescence, with rapid destruction of tissue, burning
and stinging pains.
When the quantity of the salt is much greater than
that taken by the voluntary prover the tendency to ulcera*
tion is proportionately more considerable. It commences by
apustcdar eruption which is observable in different parts, and
cm dther side of the body. The pustules coalesce, scab oret,
and on removal of the scab a small ulcer is revealed. These
ulcers vary in size from that of a pea, to that of a half-crown,
they are generally dry, of an oval form, with over-hanging
edges, have an inflamed bright red areola, hardened base,
moveable on the subjacent tissues, with a blackish spot in
the centre. While these patches of ulceration may, as I
said just now, appear on any part of the body, they do so
with especial frequency immediately below the nail, and
are then extremely painful* The ulcers most readily yield-
ing to the bichromate are such as are small in size, occur
in groups, and are painful and irritable, especially at night.
Its use externally greatly facilitates the cure, but it
must be applied with great caution. A grain to four
ounces bemg a solution frdly strong enough for the
purpose, for when there is a largely denuded surface
anything much stronger has been found to give rise to
severe pain. In ulcerations under the nail it is an invalu-
able remedy. A few weeks ago I saw a striking illustration
of this in the case of a young lady, who had in consequence
of such a sore under a finger nail, been prevented from
using her piano for two or thi*ee weeks. The application of
a weak solution of the bichromate completely healed this
troublesome and painful sore within forty-eight hours.
In some instances of pustular eruption, where the
tendencv is to coalescence and the formation of a scab, with
a pus secreting ulcer beneath it has been used with much
success — especially in syphilitic cases.
No. 1, Yd. 2^. 0
18 BICHBOKATE OF POTABH. ""SSSLSST?^
.1.
In ibis reyiew of the pathogenetic action and thera-
/pentic nses of the bichromate of potash, you cannot £Ail
to have noticed how similar are many of its symptoms
. and objectiYO signs to those characterising secondary
syphilis — ^the sore throat which has been mistaken for the
.. syphilitic form, the periosteal pains, the rhenmatism, and
lastly the skin emption — papular, pustular with a hard
dark scab and depressed cicatrix are all yery similar to the
phenomena presented by secondary syphilis. In many
such cases you will find it inyaluable.
The following case, recorded by Dr. Drysdale, in the
British Journal of HomcRopaihy (vol. xv.) is a very good
example of the power of the ohromate of potash in the acute
stage of syphilitic nodes — ^in such as are chronic you will be
more likely to find aurum or its muriate more serviceable.
' ' A florid red-haired woman. Her husband had syphilis before
marriage five years ago. She never had any primary sores on
the genitals, though she had sore throat and nicer on the lips.
The first two of her four children were prematnre and stiU-bom,
the two last delicate. She is now nursing the last six months*
infant, and her general health is pretty good. For two months
has had a red and painfiil doughy swelling on the right shin ; it
is tender to the touch, and after standing, but is especially
painful at night when the gnawing and scraping pain keeps her
long awake. On the other leg there is a swelling like a boil.
She has also leucorrhoea and itching at the vulva, otherwise well.
** Prescription. — One grain of 1st trit. of kali chrom. three
times a day. In eight days the node was found very much
better, being colourless, small, and without pain. She stated
that the pain and inflammation began to subside next day, and
gradually went ofi*, so that she had been able to sleep wdl and
had no pain for the last five nights. The itching of the vulva
was also nearly gone. The medicines were continued in the
.same way, and in seven days more the node was reduced to a
slight thickening, quite painless. The boil on the other leg had,
however, increased, and seemed inclined to suppurate. The
kali chrom, was given up and other remedies given."
This salt has been used by difierent practitioners in
various doses. For my own part I prefer the 8rd decimal
trituration as being sufficient for curative purposes, and
unlikely to excite, save in very sensitive persons, any phy-
siological action. At the same time I have seen admirable
results from the 6th dilution. As a lotion a quarter of a
grain of the pure salt to an ounce of water forms a
solution amply strong enough.
JSaj'iSTSS*^ A RBCOW). 19
« Jan. 1, 1861.
A KECOED OF TWENTY CASES TREATED ON
TBE PRINCIPLE OF HAHNEMANN'S LAW
OF SIMILARS.
By John H. Claske, M.D.
The following twenty cases are examples of treatment
-according to ttie law of similars. In each case the medi-
-cines the patient received were prescribed because they
<were believed to have the power of producing in a healthy
person a diseased state similar to the state in which the
patient was found.
Of the twenty cases sixteen were more or less chronic.
Chronic cases exemplify medicinal action better than acnte
for several reasons. In the first place, there is less room
for donbt that the change produced is really due to the
remedy employed. In the second place, more time is given
to wait for the exhaustion of the action of one medicine,
before one is compelled to exhibit a second, and thus a
Jbetter chance is afforded of obtaining a pure experiment.
It is not that remedies do not act as surely in acute
Psoases as in chronic, but that the difficulties connected
with observing them are so much greater, and the results
BO much more open to question.
In many acute cases, nevertheless, the action of reme-
dies is beyond doubt.
The first two cases I have to report are illustrations of
the action of nitric acid, in stricture of the rectum. The
first was treated throughout at the Ipswich Homoeopathic
Dispensary. The second was treated at home. At the
dispensary medicines are given in the form of pilules for
the sake of convenience ; the patients visited at their
homes receive either tinctures or triturations. In dis-
pensing tinctures it is my habit to mix eight to ten drops
in a tumbler three parts full of water, ordering from one to
two dessert-spoonfuls for a dose.
In the first case other remedies were used, with some
benefit, before the exact state of matters was ascertained
and the acid exhibited. The second case was treated with
nitric acid firom the beginning, and, with the exception of
a short period, with it alone throughout.
The aflSnity of nitric acid for the rectum is sufficiently
attested in the provings. Among other symptoms may be
noted the following, quoted from Allen : —
20 A KECOBD, "SS5^=2ST;^°
Beriew, Jan. U iBBX .
** Bectnm seems inactiTe and unable to evacoate feces.''
'^ Smarting^ more in the reetnm than the anns, imme-
diately after a stool^ and lasting two hours."
'^ Sticking in the rectumy and spasmodic constriction in
the anns daring a stool, lasting many hours."
'< Painfol constipation for sereral days."
Passed, for the first time, a small dark evacnation."
it
Case I.
Constipation, ulceration of the rectum, commencing
strietore. Add niUric 4.
March 8, 1879. — Mary B., 32, single, needlewoman ;
medimn size, fairish, naturally florid complexion, hut now
pale ; she is thin, delicate looking, and yery nerroos.
Family History, — ^Poor, parents both liying but delicate,
and the family generally is weak. Her home is a cottage
in a country Tillage.
PrevioMS health. — ^Never strong ; subject to attacks like
the present for four years.
Present Ulness, — Two months ago she took cold, and
since then she has been complaining of weakness at the
chest, and queer sensations in the head. She has dull
headache, drowsiness, and flatulence.
Tongue dirty at the back ; bowels Tery much confined ;
motions not large ; much pain and constriction at orifice.
Catamenia regular, scanty, much pain at periods, slight
leuoorrhoea.
The symptoms were those of general debility, with dis-
ordered, circulation and nutrition, and the particular as well
as the general symptoms, seemed to me to indicate the
medicine I prescribed. Natrum mur, 6, pil. i. quater
die.
March 15th. Better generally ; bowels not quite so con-
fined; flatulence better; head giddy, drowsiness the
same. Has cold feeling like a lump of ice at the left side.
Bepeat.
March 22nd. Better generally ; bowels more open ;
hea4' better. Bepeat.
March 29th. Bowels the same ; heart " feels disten-
ded." Dragging in the chest from the throat, sensation
of lump there ; has giddiness, is not so drowsy. Ignat. 1,
pil. i. quater die.
The improyement continued for a short time and she
returned on
SS^J^nT" A RECORD. 21
April 80th. Is not so giddy; has palpitation had;
howels much confined again^two motions a week; has
discharge of macns with motions. Feels generally weak.
Tongae clean. Has no congh, bat hawks up lumps of
fleshy substance. Repeat fMtrum mur, 6.
May 10th. Bowels better ; no discharge for two days.
Appetite better, raises the same substance in the morning,
there is a little blood with it, also from nose. Palpitation
bad. Bepeat,
May 24th. Bowels still confined.
I now questioned her more closely as to this symptom
and elicited the following : —
She has not passed a full-sized motion since Christmas.
The difficulty came on gradually after her cold. Has had
it be&re occasionally with intervals of regularity. Qaite
a year since it first came on, cannot remember accurately.
When she was a child, five yesurs old, she had a tumour
(fatty ? ) removed from buttock, and she has never been so
well since. At about the age of twelve she had diarrhoea
continuously for twelve months.
She has a sensation in the rectum as if there was some-
thing to come that would not come. After a motion there
is a raw sensation or a twitching. She has pain in the
rectum at other times^.and in the supra-pubic region.
Catamenia regular, scanty. LeucorrhcBa at times.
Deeming an examination of the rectam necessary, and
having no convenience for making it at the dispensary, 1
made an appointment for her to call the following week at
my house, prescribing, in the meantime, a^^id nitric 4. pil.
i. quater die.
The examination was prevented by the onset of the
catamenia, but on
May 29th, this was the report : —
Bowels have acted much better — ^two motions a day.
Bepeat.
June 7ih. Keeping much better ; bowels moved once a
day, sometimes twice. Bepeat.
June 14th. Bowels not so opeUi went from Tuesday to
Friday ; much white discharge with motions, which, how^
«ver, are larger — ^large as two fingers, not nearly so painfdl.
She has more of the dizsy feeling, pain in left side, and
sensation in the throat. Catamenia on, only fourteen days
interval^ now nearly over. . Bepeat.
22 A BBOOBD. »^SS&^Cf»?»!gJ-
BflTtow, Jan. 1, IfiSl.
*••••
July 6th. In my absence she- reeeiyed, for some leasons-
not registered^ ignat. 1. pil. i. q.d.
July 16th. Bowels confined at times. Has a kind o£
^liyer-like matter with the motions. Before this appeared
she had mnch pain in the sacrom, which left her when the
discharge disappeared. Also a bad taste, which she had,
has disappeared since this came on. Appetite better. She
has slight pain and a raw feeling afiier motions. Acid nitric^
4, pil. i. q. d.
October 18th. She retomed, looking yeiy well and much
stronger than she nsed to do, haying been well, in all
respects, until she took cold a fortnight before. The
bowels are now confined, the motions are normal in size, and!
haye been all the time ; there is pain with them. She has
oppression at the chest. Bepeat ae. nit.
This concluded the case. It was tedions, no donbt, and
the weakness and tendency to sufiidr in the rectum were
not wholly remoyed, though the diseased action was kept
in check, and the patient enabled to pursue her liyelihood
with a measure of health and comfort she had not known
before coming under treatment. But the yalue of the
obseryations in this case are greatly enhanced by com-
parison with the next to be related.
Case n.
Organic stricture of the rectum ; accumulation of large
quantities of pus, and discharge by anus, and yagina through
recto-yaginal fistula. Bemoyal of all unpleasant symptoms*,
and restoration of general health, by nitric add 1.
September 26, 1879. Mrs. F., 49. Short, sanguine,
blue eyes, actiye.
Family history yery good. Mother died aged 103.
Father still liyes, aged 96.
I^ocial history. Was domestic seryant before marriage.
Husband was in detectiye force, yery steady, always in easy
circumstances.
Previous health. At about 11 years of age was greatly
troubled by lumbrici. She was cured of them. Witii tha4r
exception she has had no illness except the present one.
Gatameniacame on atll, and left without trouble at 89.
Always regular. Neyer pregnant. Neyer had headache,
sickness, or biliousness. Married at 22.
At 28 she began to haye a discharge from the rectum.
At 29 she noticed that she could not retain stool. At that
S5SS'5?'?"aEf** A RBCfOBD. 28
Btnkrw, Jaai. 1, IflBl.
time she had pains in the rectnm and white discharge.
The pain then felt to be high np in the rectom, bat has
giadnally been getting lower.
Foot years ago was oonfined to bed for 17 weeks with
the same affection.
Eighteen months ago she had, on an occasion, to retain
the stool for some time by an effort, and then the dis-
charge came through the vagina. Since that time
discharge has always come that way when the other has
been stopped, and sometimes daring the night.
She has been onder medical treatment on many occasions
daring the continaance of her disease, bat this is her
first experience of homoBopathy. She was at one time
nnder Th. Hilton Fagge, and receired considerable benefit
from his prescriptions, bat after a time the benefit ceased,
and she was obliged to discontinae the medicine from the
nnpleasant effects it prodaced.
A few days before consalting me she soaght relief at the
East Saffolk Hospital as an oat-patient, bat the case was
rery imperfectly gone into, and she received a parging
mixtore, the first dose of which made snch work with her
that she had not the least inclination to try a second.
Present condition. She compbuns of severe pains in the
rectam, coming on in the aftiemoon and lasting into the
night. She has three sharp pains in qaick saccession,
followed by a copioas white discharge, after which there is
a feeling of relief. Her rest is mach broken at night by
her having to get oat of bed every ten, or at most twenty,
minntes to pass discharge.
She passes altogether aboat a pint of it in the twenty-
foar hoars.
It does not come with the stool, bat separately, and
passes partly by rectam and partly by the vagina.
The bowels are regalar, bat the motions give great pain,
they are never as thick as a finger ; freqaenUy she has to
go many times before she can get anytlung to pass.
She cannot walk far, bat she is of a very energetic natare,
and does all the work of her hoase in spite of her troable.
The dischai^e consists of dirty looking pas with streaks
and flecks of blood.
The heart and langs are healthy.
Examination.
Per Vaginam. — ^Uteras high ap ; cervix atrophied ; lower
part of posterior wall of vagina not tender ; higher part
24 A BEOOBD*
Be?iew,Jaa. 1.18B1.
tender. There a firm mass can be felt, cylindrical in
shape, and corresponding in position to the conrse of the
rectum.
Per Rectum. — ^Anns slightly inflamed; tightly grasps
finger, which gives a good deal of pain. Finger passes
eafflly for the distance of an inch and a half, and is then
arrested by a fibrous-feeling mass, in which a hole is disc
coYcred, ajhnitting easily the finger tip. The finger passes
onward abont two inches when it reaches what is apparently
the upper limit of the stricture, which is too narrow to
admit of further passage. The constricted portion is very
tender. The examination causes great pain. The walls
feel to be of dense fibrous consistence.
In other respects her health is sound.
There being no other symptoms of prominence than these
relating to the rectum, and as these (Le . the subjection
symptoms) corresponded closely with the symptoms pro*
duced by nitric acid, I prescribed : Acid niL 1, gtt. vi. in a
tumbler of water. Dessert spoonful to be taken every three
hours.
September 27. — ^Had not been up in the night so often ;
feels stronger generally. Still has the pain very bad at
times. Bepeat.
September 29. — Has had better lUghta, but in the
evenings much pain and excessive discharge, with soreness
of body and anus. Bepeat.
October 2. — Much better ; not nearly 8o much pain nor
discharge ; slept well ; has never had such nights' rests for
years. She is quite sore in the morning, with lying so long.
Bepeat.
October 6th. Much better in all respects ; pain not so
violent nor so frequent ; discharge very much less, scarcely
any from vagina; feels much stronger; spirits much
better. Bepeat.
October 9th. Had a bad night on the 6th (it was wash-
ing day), and much pain ; more discharge. Better last
night. There is a soreness inside the abdomen — a fresh
symptom with her. She is, however, much stronger in her
general health. Bepeat.
October 13th. Pain rather bad on the night of the 9th ;
walked a good deal on the 10th ; sinoe then die has been
worse. Her general health is keeping better, and she has
had fair nights. Bowels loose; motions mixed with
matter, and painful ; very little of it eomes per wtguMm*
BtviBir* Jaa. 1, 1881.
A BECOBD. 25
A quarter of an hour after each dose of the medicine, a
eore, emarting pain comes on in the hypogastrium.
Taking into aceonnt the probability of the latter being a
physiological action of the medicine, and also the some-
what retrograde movement of the case^ I thought it advis-
able io stop the remedy, for a time at least, and give evlph*
1 gtt. vi., in a tnmbler of water as before.
I gave mlphur becanse of its power of affecting the rec-
tmn, and pzodncing a bloody and pnrnlent discharge ; and
also becanse of the power it has of influencing chronic cases
for good.
October 16th. She says the last medicine has suited her
better than any. The motions are more firm, and there is
much less pain with them. Pain during the day very
slight. During night much less discharge. Has slept
better, as long as two hours right off. Yesterday morning
felt very queer on getting up ; soon after passed a great
quantity of dark blood and matter ; has hardly had any
pain since. Is feeling much stronger. The "lump"
inside feels less. Svlph. 8 gtt. vi. in the same way.
(I had none of No. 1 in my case or I should have re-
peated that.)
October 18th. Not quite so well. Night of 16th had
much discharge and pain; last night better. She has
diarrhoea ; she has it worse when there is a high wind ;
the discharge is worse then. Stdph. 1.
October 21st. Bowels have been very loose again since
the 19th ; diarrhoea comes on after everything she takes ;
she had to leave off the medicine. On l^e night of the
19th two ounces of quite white matter passed which set
like a jelly. Had a poor night last night.
Dry food suits her best ; she cannot take eggs or mutton ;
she can take beef.
The motions are painful, but do not give the pain they
used to do. The '' lump'' feels better. Acid Nitric 1.
October 28rd. Yery much better in all respects ; motions
firmer ; better nights than ever ; medicine seems to make
her warmer ; no soreness follows the taking of the medi-
eine this time, nor does she require to lie down after taking
it as she did when taking eulph. Bepeat.
October 27th. Keeping better in every way ; has more
" strength'^ in the bowels : she has not to be so careful
with her diet ; she can go longer without food than she
26 A BEOOBD. B«fieir.Jai.l,18Sl!
conldy and it does not affect her as it used to do when she
takes it. Bepeat.
October 30th. Better in all respects; slept last night
from 9 till 1 ; has walked a good distance wi^oat discom-
fort. Bepeat.
NoTember Srd. Went forty-eight honrs without a
motion ; never did so before for fifteen years ; no pain ;
motions firm and a little larger ; came away slowly, and
she feels weak after. Yexy little discharge; none from
yagina. On the 1st inst. slept all nigJU, and nearly all last
night. Bepeat.
November 6th. Much better ; motions ^rm^r and larger.
Can eat what she likes without inconvenience ; can walk
as mnch as she likes, and very little discharge ; very litUe
pain. The area of pain used to extend a finger's length
up the rectum from the anus, now it is only an inch.
Bidpeat.
November 13th. Has been out twice to-day in a freesdng
north-west gale without discomfort, and without being
tired. Thinks the hard substance in the rectum feels
thinner. Bepeat.
November 17. Keeping stronger. Last day or two has
had more constipated motions. This morning passed a
large one which gave great pain ; it is much larger than
it used to be, larger than her finger. Before it comes
there is aching in the hypogastrium and left iliac region.
With the motion came a few drops of blood ; very unusual.
There has been a very slight discharge of fluid from the
vagina, hot (unusual) and almost like water. She has
none of the shooting pain now. Formerly she never dared
take food before undertaking anything, as it (the food) was
sure to bring on a motion. Bepeat gtt. iii. to the tumbler.
November 20th. Keeping better. Motions still fiim,
but not so painful. The amount of discharge does not
exceed an ounce and a half in two days. On the 18th she
walked two miles, and felt no pain or ill effects. Bepeat.
November 24. Can bear cold better than she has been
able to do for years. Bepeat.
November 26. Had a fit of ague last night ; it lasted
half-an-hour. It began in the left side, splenic region.
She was no worse after it. She had a fit many years ago.
Bepeat.
December 4th. (Since last date I had been away from
the town. In my absence she had received the same
Bsfiaw, Jan. 1, 1881
A BECOBD. 27
laedieipe, only in slightly larger doses she said, as she
eonld taste it). The last few days has had very acute pain
and mnch more discharge; no blood; slight discharge
from the Tsgina.
She is always worse in cold weather, and now she
cannot get fresh au: and exercise. The pain is chiefly at
the orifice, and is of a pinching character. Bowels re-
gular; motions firmer; no discharge with the motions.
She is troubled at night sometimes. General health still
good; appetite good. She has had neuralgia, but the ap-
plication of cold removes it at once ; hot things aggrayated
it. Bepeat gtt. vi. to the tumbler.
December 8th. Good deal better. Pain much less ; dis-
charge much less; slept well; bowels regular; motions
more solid, larger, give pain. Repeat gtt. t.
December 11. Keeping better. Has a sensation as if
there was a hard lump just inside the anus, and the lump
is painful. Motions better; general health better; no
discharge. Bepeat gtt. iii.
December 14th. Better in all respects. I now made a
second examination of the rectum, and made the following
report : — The stricture is not nearly so tight, nor the walls
so hard. The examination giyes pain, but nothing like so
much as the former. Bepeat gtt. v.
December 18th. Has sufiered much since the examina-
tion. There has been much discharge — two pints in four
days ; some of it has come per vaginam. The motions
are firm, and give pain. She has slept very well. Bepeat
gtt. iii.
December 21st. Better generally. Has felt a sensation
at the anus, as if a sharp substance like a bone were inside
and pushing its way out. Bepeat gtt. iv.
December 27th. Much better generally. Went with-
out medicine for a few days ; but did not sleep so well.
Bepeat.
December 81st. Keeping much better, motions much
larger ; very little pain. Bepeat.
January Srd. Took three doses of the last medicine ;
after the first, felt an aching in the stomach, after the third
felt a forcing down in the lower bowel. There was slight
purging as well at one time, and not the old pain. No
increase of discharge. She could not sleep all night for
the forcing pain. When she left off the medicine she was
28 A KECORD. ""S^^SS"?^'
, Jan. t, 18B1.
free from it. After two days she took another dose, and
the same thing occurred, and she dared not take any more.
In other respects she is better. The motions are large
and give less pain. She has been out, and she feels the
better for it. She sleeps well, and is on the whole better
than she has been for years.
A similar thing occurred in regard to medicine when
she was nnder Dr. Fagge. He gave her medicine which
helped her for a few weeks, bat then the same thing
occnrred which has happened now, and she had to dis-
continue it. To go without medicine of any kind.
January 12th. Not nearly so well. Has great pain,
and feeling of weight in lower abdomen and supra-pubic
region. A few days ago, whilst hanging up clothes in the
garden, felt as if something gave way in the inside, and a
great quantity of discharge came away — about two pints,
she says, of '' corruption," lumps of '' flesh," and strings.
Very little came per vaginam.
Sleep is not so good. The bowels are looser. She is
weaker generally. She has not been able to walk.
This I consider to be the bursting of an abscess or at
any rate an encysted collection of pus and blood, probably
in the dilated portion of the bowel aboTe the stricture. I
thought it advisable to continue the remedy. Acid, nit.
1 gtt. iii.
January 15th. On the 11th she took a chill. Since
then seyere influenza has come on. She is quite prostrated
with it, and feels weak, as if recoyering from a severe ill-
ness. She is very pale ; has aching in all her bones ;
watery, excoriating discharge from nose.
In other respects she is much better — ^no more discharge,
only one sharp pain, and that very slight ; on the 12th no
feeling of soreness in the lower abdomen.
For 26 years she has not been so free from discharge. It
began soon after her marriage. For 22 years she has been
under doctors. When she first sought medical aid her
bowels were in such a weak state, that the mere raising of
her arm above her head would bring on diarrhoea.
Considering that the influenza was the more pressing
disorder, I prescribed araen, 2, every two hours, and dcid.
nit. 1. One dose at bed time.
January 19th. The cold is better. She is better
generally. Sometimes she has a slight smarting in the
lower abdomen, and a feeling as if something had gone.
£5Si??rT'?SS*' A BECOBD. 29
Seview, Jan. 1, iBBl.
Since she has been taking arsen. she has lost a sense of
folnesB which has troubled her ever since she had a very
heaiy nursing case twelve months ago. Acid, nit.
January 26th. — ^Very much better in every way. The
cold is well. Body stronger. No pain. Repeat.
January 27th. — ^Keeping much better. Only took one
dose^of the medicine. Slept well without it. Has not slept so
well for years. After the medicine — ^which usually quiets
the bowels — ^the bowels were disquieted, and there was
slight pain in the rectum. To go without medicine.
February 8rd. — ^Is very well indeed. Better than she has
been for many years. Sleeps well. Has no difficulty with
the bowels. Has taken no medicine. She thinks she is
as well as she ever will be. She has taken long walks
without feeling pain, only feels tired.
Since this date I have not seen the patient. From this
I infer that there has been no retrogression, as she pro-
mised to let me know if she went back in any way.
The time of treatment was a little over four months,
and although there were some marked breaks in the line
of progress, the patient never fell back into the state she
was in before commencing the treatment. The whole of
the beneficial effect may I think be fairly ascribed to the
nitric acid. I made no alteration in her diet. She was
a total abstainer from alcohol, and had by long experience
learned what diet suited her best.
Practically, the patient was restored to health and
comfort such as she had not enjoyed for many years.
Case III.
Strangury, — Cantharis 8.
The third case I have to refer to is an illustration of the
action of cantharis on the urinary system. Of its power of
diminishing the secretion of urine and of producing stran-
gury there is no need to speak. The symptoms narrated
below correspond accurately to those produced in the prov-
ings of the drug.
April 16th, 1879. Miss E. H., dressmaker, 21, dark,
grey eyes, small. Has been ill five weeks. Has had pain
. in left iliac region for three years.
Five weeks a^o was taken ill with pains all over, vomiting,
difficult micturition, could only pass a few drops at a time;
it was like blood. Never had urinary difficulty before.
30 A BEOOBD. ""SSlfS^TSS!
Has still yery great pain in passing water. It comes on
with aching in the side and back (lumbar region), and
burning and scalding in the nrethra. The orine is yellow
and thick. Sometimes she can pass water without pain.
Micturition is frequent. She only passes a little at a time.
Tongue dirty at the back ; bowels confined as a rule
(they are open at present, which she thinks is due to ptcba-
tiUa, which she has been taking on her own account).
Oatamenia regular, scanty ; she has much pain in the left
side and back at the periods. There is no tenderness.
This being a dispensary case there was no convenience
for testing the urine. I prescribed canth. 8 pil. 1, 3ti& h.
April 19th. Micturition not so frequent ; passes more
at a time, but there is more pain ; urine quite clear now.
Appetite is very bad. Pain in the side and back is yery
bad ; better when she walks, worse when she lies down.
She is &int at times ; never was so before.
Tongue dirty ; bowels irregular ; sleep restless.
Takmg into account that she was better in some important
points and not so well in others, I decided not to change the
medicines, but to alter the frequency of the dose. Bepeat
pil. 1, night and morning.
April 23rd. Very much better. No pain on micturitioUi
and no difficulty. Sleeps much better.
She stills feels faint, and has much pain in side and back,
with a sensation of burning heat up the dorsal region. Pain
in the back comes on with sickness, and when she is sick
she gets relief.
Tongue dirty at the back ; bowels regular ; appetite back*
Since the urinary difficulty was quite removed, I now
paid more attention to the general state, and prescribed
nux vomica 1, pil. 1 ; 3 h.
She did not again present herself, although the time
allowed by the ticket had not expired. From that I infer
that the improvement was permanent.
Cask IV.
Irritability of the base of the bladder. — Ferrum Muriai. Sx.
The following case contrasts well with the foregoing,
showing the difference between the action of cantharia and
that of ferrum on the urinary organs, and at the same
time illustrating the value of symptomatic indications. In
Case m. the symptoms pointed to irritation of the whole
urinary tract, from the kidneys to the urethra, and all
],ISSL ^ BEOOBD. 81
speedily dieappetzed nnder the action of eantkarii. Here
there was no oifferenoe noticed in time or position. In fhe
ease to be narrated, howeyer, the frequency of micturition
was only complained of dwring the day^ showing that that
part of the surface of the bladder which the urine fills
during the recumbent posture was not in a state of irri-
tation, but only that part in which it collects when the
patient is sitting or standiag up. Diurnal eneurosis is a
characteristic symptom of the ferrum proyers, and its
appropriateness was demonstrated in this case. The
urethra was also slightly affected, and this trouble did not
jield till the more widely acting canthari$ was resorted to.
March 19, 1879. — Jessie Y., 15, dark, ruddy, well
nourished.
She complains of difficulty of micturition ; she had an
attack of it four years ago, and was an in-patient at the
East Suffolk Hospital in consequence. She had another
attack the year after, and was again in the hospital, and
was at that time catheterised.
She is not as bad at present as she was on the former
occasions, but her mother wished it to be taken in time.
Hie first thing she noticed amiss was a little pain in
micturating, cutting in the urethra, and pain the abdomen.
She now micturates firequentiy, and only passes small
qi^mtities at a time. During the day she has to go eyery
half hour ; not at aU in the night. She has no pain when
she walks.
Tongue clean ; bowels regular ; appetite good ; sleep
good. Ferr. mw. 8x. pil. 1. 8h.
March 26. — Scarcely any pain. Does not micturate so
often, only four or fiye times in the day. Repeat.
April 2. — ^Much better generally, but had slight pain this
morning. Bepeat.
April 9. — ^No^difficulty in retaining urine now. There
is slight smartftig in the urethra whilst it is passing.
Can^. 8. pil. 1, 8h.
April 16. — There is no smarting in the urethra, and no
difficulty of any kind. She is quite well.
Case Y.
AnsBmia, Amenorrhoea, Dyspepsia, and Hepatic Congestion
from exposure to cold« — Ferr. metal 6 ; nva. vom. 1.
Ferr. mur. 8x.
82 A MgooBD. 'Hg^fssrgsa!
The pzineipal interest of this case rests on the action
of ferrum in anotiier q»here — ^thst of nutrition and
sanguification. The power of iron to produce an»mia is
ahnost as widely known as its power oif caring it. The
dyspeptic symptoms in the case were greatly improyed by
fmXf but the constipation was not chimged nntil the con-
stitutionally indicated remedy was given.
Febnuuy 279 1879. — Sarah G., 20, servant^ medium size,
dark hair and eyes» fine skin, cheeks high coloured, the
rest of face waxy pale.
Fajtuly History. — ^Mother living and well. Father died
at 30 of consumption, after five years of suffering. He
was not very steady* Best of family healthy.
Social History. — ^Has had rather a heavy place lately.
Farmer Health. — ^Very good till fifteen years of age,
when she had '^congestion of the liTer." She was jaon-
, diced. Has had no other severe illnesses. At seventeen
catamenia came on, never regular, often several months'
interval, always scanty, always has pains at the time in
right hypochondrium and across abdomen. Has been
subject to attacks like the present, sometimes having
yeUowness of the skin with them.
Present lUness. — ^A fortnight ago she drove seven miles
into the country to a situation. Felt the cold strike her
in the right side. After that she had a drawing pain in
the right side of the chest and right hypochondrium, only
relieved by bending herself forward. The pain continued,
and she was obliged to return home. The return through
the cold seemed to make it worse, and rest and care at
home for a week has not improved it. The pain comes
on in the morning when she awakes, and continues during
the day, with no definite relation to food. She has much
flatus, which she cannot pass upwards, and which compels
her to loosen her clothes. She is not yellow now. She has
no sickness. At one time she used to vomit in such
attacks. She has no headache, though she has been
subject to them. There is no cough. Pulse 84, feeble,
regular. Tongue clean. Bowels very much confined.
Appetite fair.
Examination. — Pulmonary sounds clear. Heart sounds
clear but feeble ; there .is a loud bruit heard in the neck.
Liver dulness extends from fifth rib 4^ inches downwards.
There is a great tenderness in this region^ also in epigas-
1^ MH^ A BBOOSD*
tinim and abdmneB genmdly. 13ie frtemnm is veiy
pmwiwi^wfcf.. siie is dmoBt pigecm-farearted.
She ia drowsy all day.
I considered it to be a ease of gastrio eakanh from oold
niih hepatic oongestioa and I ordered her to ha^e nouns h-
iMDty £^ht and warm, eiery three hocus, and pieeoribed
Te. nua vom. i., 8 h.
March 1. — The pain has not been so Bevere except
'OBoe when it woke her in the night; bowels not so
«mfined. Kepeat.
March 8. — ^Better generally ; has had maoh less pain.
Appetite good ; bowelB still confined. No catamenia for
fire weeks. As the acato dyspeptic symptoms were
remoTed 1 now paid more attention to the general state,
-and preseribed, Tc. ftrr. metal. 5, 8 h.
March 5. — ^Has had very little pain. Felt languid
jesterday : was very yellow. Bowels more open ; motions
^nito easy. Sleeps well ; is not drowsy daring the day «
JSepeat.
March 8. — ^No pain. Bowels regolar. no difficulty with
ihem. Appetite good ; sleep good ; feels stronger ; no
catamenia. Bepeat*
March 11. — Still improYing, but the bowels are confined
again. Bepeat.
March 18. — ^Better, bowels quite loose. Bepeat.
March 15. — Gaining strength. Bepeat.
March 22. — Gatemenia came on on the 19th, lasted till
2lBt ; same quantity and same time as usual ; two months'
interral. Bepeat.
March 26. — ^Keeping better. For the last week has had
add risings after each meal. Is subject to them at times.
Bruit in Tessels of neck the same. Pub. 1.
March 28. — ^Much better. Very littie of the lirang since.
Bepeat.
April 2. — She came to the dispensary to see me^ com-
plaining of headache oyer the right eye — ^an unusual thing
with her — ^for three days, and more of the acid risings. I
ga?e her the only preparation of ferrum I had at hand.
Ferrwn mar. 8 x., pil. 1., 8 h.
April 9. — ^HeadaehOi sickness, acid risings all dis-
appeared. She looks well and says she CmIb strong;
bowels much confined ; motions large. Bepeat.
April 16. — ^No headache ; bowels noeU. Much stronger
and better generally. Bepeat.
No. I, voL 25 D
M NOTES ON NOBBIANDY. *'SSSr^^2?JfiMl!
April 28.— Much better generally. Catamenia have come
on, only one month's interval ; same qnantity as nsiial«
Bepeat.
April 80. — ^Keeping much better. Repeat.
That was the last time I saw her. He health was
quite restored, and soon after she went to a new situation^
and I hear from her mother that she has remained quite
well. She had quite lost her waxy pallor, and no one
would suspect that she had suffered from an»mia. The
largest share of the credit is, I think, fairly attributed to
the ferrmn, the exhibition of which, whether in the
higher or lower attenuation, was followed by marked
alteration in the case for the better. In the provings of
ferrum constipation was complained of by many of the
provers, and in this case ferrum was more accurately
homoeopathic than nux^ which only gave temporary
renei.
NOTES ON NORMANDY.
By Dr. MoBHissoN.
When *' Autumn comes with ripening grain," or some-
what earlier, the active brain-worker should endeavour ta
secure a mental rest. Physical, also ? No ; for that would
generally mean an unquiet mind. Therefore let your holi-
day arrangements include a change of scene for the mind,
and moderate exertion for the body.
Keeping this object in view, my excursion of last sum-
mer comprised a trip to Normandy, with a return by wa;
of the Channel Islands. An easy railway journey tO'
Southampton, followed by a day passage of seven hours,,
will land us at the picturesque town of
Chebboxjrg. — Our fellow-passengers were surprisingly-
few and it is evident this route is not yet duly appreciated..
** That horrid Channel," some reader remarks. Not at
all. This is one of our best crossings, with very fair
steamers, and proper precautions may do much toward&
mitigating the ever-dreaded sea-sickness. Victims of this
malady should take a substantial meal some two hours or
fu> before embarking, should lie nearly flat (on deck, in
suitable weather), should avoid all stimulants, especially
nips of brandy,'* and should be provided with a medici-
i»
S^^^T^S?**** NOTES ON NORMANDY. 35
I Beview, Jan. 1, IfiU.
I
nal ftntidote. Never depend npon shipB* surgeons; they
nsaally know jnst about as much of the qualities of pre-
Tentiye medicines as the Hottentots do of the flavour of
champagne. Bemember, also, that for short trips it
is advisable to fast, as &r as eating is concerned. On
longer voyages, if the severe sufferer wiU only force
down a small substantial meal (including chicken, or even
beef-steak) as soon as exhaustion from empty retching com-
mences, the sea-sickness will seldom recur. So much for
gossip. Meanwhile we have been nearing our present
destination, and our drooping spirits steadily revive. Of
the immense breakwater (4,450 yards long), the forts, the
harbour, and the arsenal of Cherbourg, much has been
written. Certainly its fortifications look very imposing,
but they would not stand much chance of long resisting
the effects of modem ordnance. I was not prepared, how-
ever, for such a favourable impression as that produced on
approaching the town by sea. Standing on a bold promi-
nence, which dominates the town, aud forms an excellent
background, is the Fort du Boule. Seven forts defend
the harbour; six lighthouses show forth their warning
beacons, and nine basins afford accommodation to vessels
of moderate size. Cherbourg was known as a town and
port in the time of the Bomans, under the name of
Csesarisburg. It was seized by the English in 1418;
recaptured by the French in 1450, and again attacked by
the English in 1758, suffering much damage. The town
now contains some 42,000 inhabitants.
Should the tide be low, passengers will have to land at
the granite steps. Be prepared to name your hotel, or
destination, as this will prevent your being beset by touters.
Be civil to the Custom-house officers, and you wiU receive,
as I have always experienced in France, courtesy and
civilify. There is but one first-class hotel, in a first-class
position, and that is the Hotel des Bains de Mer. Two or
three less expensive might be mentioned, but they are not
nearly so well-placed. Unfortunately for our pockets a
provincial exhibition was taking place, the existence of
which formed a pretext for the doubling of hotel prices*
While inspecting this exhibition, which was very interest-
ing, I was amused at hearing a iotto voce exclamation of
" toujours les Anglais," uttered in a tone that betokened
the speaker's irritation* It reminded me of an incident at
Seville. While ascending the Giralda, I overtook two
D 2
SC HOnS OR HOBMAVmr. bmI^ j«» 1
Kngliahmen, just in time to h«ff tlie oate say, ^' Haag it,
there's that conlbimded Seoftdunan agaiii ; one cannot go
anywhere without meeting with a Seotehman ;" and «iir^
enong^, perched on tiie top of the tower, we fooiid '' tiiat
eonfoimded Seotehman/' iriioae accent had betrayed him.
The Hotel des Bains de Mer fitces the outer hadbonr, and
is clear of the town. This latter is an adrantage^ for the
writer who spoke of a place
*' Where ereiy prospeoi pleues,
Ajkd odIj nutt is vile/'
Etidently nnderrated the odonrs of an inner harbonr, eren
of a coral island, at ebb tide. In front of the Hotel des
Bains are excellent sands, with every requisite for sea
bathing. Attached to it is the Casino. This hotel has
dean and comfortable rooms, with good attendance, but
liting .is ezpensiye. The town has a mnsemn, library,
baths, theatre, college, etc., with the nsnal supply of shops
and cafte. In the centre of the Place de rHotel-de-YiUiB,
is an equestrian statue of Napoleon I, momited on a
Kinite pedestal, the granite having been drawn from a
al quarry. A place to be specially visited, is the arsenal.
Numerous excursions are mentioned in the guide books,
but our outside wanderings extended only to tiie Chateau
of NacqueviUe, a pleasant morning's drive there and back.
The Chateau itself, like most df its kind, would form but
a third-rate English mansion ; but the grounds are well
worth visiting, and from various points therein may be
obtained charming glimpses of scenery.
With this imperfect sketch we bid farewell to Cherbourg,
and wend our wiay to
Baxxux, some two and-a-half to four hours by rail,
according to the train selected. This sleepy old town baa
«ne of the finest cathedrals to be found in France, first
hniit by Bishop Odo, half brother to William the Con-
queror. Like most ancient monuments, this bnilding is
closely surrounded by houses ; but these do not prevent
its three spires from being seen for many miles. One is
iempted to linger over l£e deeeription of this impoeiiic
edifice. It was built in the form of a Latin creos. There
are said to be 2,976 capitals, each difEerently acnlptuied.
Two Roman towers of lofity elevation, dating from the
12th century, give an ii>ipft^ng aspect to the^ront ^utraMe.
This entrance was richly oraate, but has been much mnti-
r,*ui.l.;
NOVBS ON KOBM^mr. 37
laied. At the time of my mit, Bometibiiig was being done
in the mty of ganeoral repairs* Entering by the eoathem
Ertal, down a few steps, we note its omamentation.
teriorly, the bnilding impresses one by its yast, though
exceUent propoFtions ; and the thought arises, what has
become of the popnlation, supposing tiiis cathedral ever to
haYS been absolutely vequired ? Instead of ascending the
third or oetagonal tower, I entered through an open door«-
way leading to the organ gallery (where tiie organist was
then practising), and wended my way up a dark and some*
what dilapidated staircase, nearly to the top. Peeping
throng its -window-openings, I obtained extensi^^e yiews
of the country round ; and far beneath me, and at what
appeared a considerable distance^ I saw a group- of yisitors
on the outer platform of the central tower. The sense of
londiness became oppressive ; and lest the organist should
forsake his post, and close the communicating door, I
hastily descended. Interiorly there is much that is inter-
estmg, the crypt especially, but unlike Mrs. Macquoid, the
authoress of " Through Normandy," we were unfortunate
enough to meet witii the real SacHristan, and not his sub*'
stitute, and we found him Tory unwilling to take any extra
trouble in imparting information*
The object of special interest to most Tisitors to Bayeuxi
is its tapestry, which may be found about five minutes
walk from the cathedral. The interest awakened by its
historical record is equalled by its quaintness. Bude, and
in &et ridiculous, in outline as are the figures, their im«
port is usually obvious* Those of William and Harold
are readily discernible, though in the 21st section they
appear to be first cousins to some members of the finny
tnbe, judging by their scales. This tapestry has been
ascribed, with but slight show of reason, to Matilda, wife
of William the Conqueror. With greater probability it
has bean supposed to date from the 11th or 12th century i«
Belaming to the railway station, we may find omnibuses
for two seaside bathing places. We enter that for
AnBOMANaHssoXiES-BAiKS, which is eight miles from
Bayeox. If fine, secure an outside seat ; not that the
country is of exceptional interest; it is generally rather
flat, but well cultivated. What wiU be sure to strike an
Kngliflh visitor, is the smaUness of the patches .under
cultivation. The only field of decent sise which I saw was
tilled in patches or rather strips, first wheat, then sarrasin
88 NOTES ON NOBMANDT. "^bS^^jK^Mw!
(a poor Bubstitnte for grain), thea rye, then potatoes, then
barley, and so on. Bat, after all, there is a home-like
appearance, which is pleasant. Orchards abound, and the
patches (one can hardly term them fields) are sniroonded
by real, genuine hedges (though untrimmed), such as are
scarcely ever seen in the South of France. MoreoTor, the
people look sturdy and Briton-like, as if they were brought
np on something better than yegetable water, coffee, and
tobacco. It is considered here, in the district of GalYados,
the ** correct thing " to keep a look out for the enormous
cap of the Ancient Norman. In shape it may be com-
pared to a reversed kitchen coal scuttle, backed up by a
compressed pumpkin; in whiteness, to the untamished
snow ; and with lappets of elaborate size. These head-
gears haye almost disappeared ; I only saw one in wear,
and that was not here, but while returning to Cherbourg
from the Chateau of NacqueTiUe.
We come within sight of Arromanches, and observe a
pleasing village, chiefly modem, nestling in a gently
inclining valley. Its chief inn is the former Auberge
Chretien, now the Hotel du Chemin de Fer. Probably the
latter name has been taken because the omnibuses for
Bayeux Station start from this establishment. If a single
recommendation can make the reputation of an establish-
ment, that of Mrs. Macquoid has certainly done so for
this, and prices have somewhat advanced since her visit.
Mme. Chretien was much amused at my asking for '^des
CBufs sur la plat," as she said aU the English did the same.
These fried eggs are certainly very nice, but I prefer our
ordinary eggs and bacon. The general living at this house
was not so good as I expected to find, and the wines were
of inferior quality ; but these small drawbacks need not
deter the tourist, for Arromanches is decidedly worth
seeing. Fronting the beach is a sea-wall from ten to
twenty feet in height with an inclined plane down the centre,
and stairs at several points. Sometimes the waves dash
against this wall with considerable force, throwing the
spray above the spectators. What strikes English people
is the free-and-easy way in which bathing arrangements
are conducted ; bathers don their costume, throw a cloak
over, put on bathing shoes, and walk down from any dis-
tance ; I have seen a gentleman thus attired come through
the main streets, quite a quarter of a mile. The chief
dressing boxes are right back from the beach ; we used
f^rySS^ HOTBB ON KOBMAHBY. 39
those i^taehdd to oar hotel, walking across the small
promenade, and down the steps. Mrs. Maoqnoid bestows
extravagant praise on these sands ; they are, as a whole
very good, but one may happen to come into collision with
« young rook, about the size of a fdll-grown tombstone,
unless care be taken. Tents of yarious hues are largely
used, but not by bathers. As the tide recedes these are
placed upon the sands, and taken possession of by ladies
«nd children ; while the former sit and work, the latter
play and wade. These, with the bathers in the foreground
and the promenaders above the wall, give the little town
quite -an animated appearance. Improprieties? Never;
not like at English balhing places, where people sit on the
shore or cliffs, and scan the bathers with opera glasses.
And this fjftmily system gives ladies and children more con-
fidence, so that tiiey derive the greater benefit, as well as
the greater enjoyment.
Amusements, none. This is essentially a place for
£amily recreation. There is a small fishing populution,
forming a distinct class. There are the two other classes,
those who are the residents of the hotels and villas, and
the visitors ; and there are just enough shops to supply all
necessities.
Starting one day after our late breakfast, we determined
to pay a visit to Mademoiselle de FontanaiUe. A roaming
walk along the edge of cliffs to within a comparatively
short distance of Port-en-Bessin, a small bathing place
and port on the Cherbourg side of Arromanches, brought
into view a gigantic column, perched on a narrow pedestal.
This was our Mademoiselle, standing out prominently in
front of the cliff, and with the base washed by each rising
tide. The origin is obvious ; portions of the lofty cliffs
have separated and fallen into the sea, but this rock-based
segment, crowned with scanty herbage, has maintained its
position, and has become of interest to object hunters. In
the distance is Gape La Hogue, and near by is a patch, or
rather a couple of patches, of nature's handiwork which are
termed, locally, the Swiss scenery. Many hundred yards
of cliff appear to have fallen simultaneously, forming
eminences and valleys. These segments have resisted the
further action of the waves, miniature lakes have formed,
shrubs and trees have grown, pathways have been worn,
and now there exists a miniature specimen of a mountainous
eountzy. This tract of land interested me a great deal
4& Houoisosinac lemozHSB. '^^SS^
Bvnev, Jan. U tm.
move than did tlie portiiy MadeDMiselle, and, indepandenUjr
of the pieamM of an agreeable xambk^ well repaid na for
GOT eight mile walk*
Here, at Arromandbee^ I nitfneseed two splendid simBets^
fluch as ase snppoeed to belong to tropioal regions. The
one showed fcdly half the visible sky of a wann» bright
red ; the other, equally effectiTe, of varying^ tints. Daring
our short stay, temperature was warm, with a dear, dry
atmosphere; not snffieientiy hot to enervate, but snitaUa
to those requiring warmth and dryness of climate, in order
to recmit the physieal frame*
St. Sayioor's Boad,
Brixton Bise,
August, 1880.
fTo he continued J
\
ON THE PREPARATION AND DISPENSING OF
HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINES.*
By John W. Hitwabd, M.D.
Mb. President and Gentlemen, — ^In a system of medicine
like homoBopathy, which belieyes in medicine and trusts to
medicine to cure patients, you will agree with me that it is
of the utmost importance that the medicines which we
haye to use shall be absolutely what they are supposed to
be.
In treating a case of croup suppose the aco. or fpon. wo
ordered were not aco- or epon. what would become of the
patient ? And in a case of acute pneumonia, suppose the
hry. or yhoe. we ordered were not hry. or phoe. ; or in a
case of cholera, suppose the cup, or ver. we ordered were
not cup, or ver., what would be the result ? or suppose
the bottles in which the tinctures were made, or the mor-
tars in which the triturations were made, had not been
cleaned, or had contained some other drug, what reliance
ought to be placed in the medicines prepared in them ?
Or suppose that by any other careless preparing or dispens-
ing hel. and opu became mixed together and dispensed as
bel,^ or mer, and euL, and dispensed as ml,^ what good
would be done to the patient ? and what would become of
* ThiB paper WM presmtodio tibe Homooqpatliitt Oongreia al Leedf*.
but not read for maX of time.
4l»eie«Lit of homoBoyathy ? Day, indeed, what would mmd
beoome of haDMBopaUiy itidf ? And these ate mA merely
imaginafy sappoaitionB ; for in a preparation obtained for
the purpose of testing nnder the microscope Prof. Wessd-
hoeft found the {Hreparation sold as our. 8x contained no
gold at all ! of what ase, therefore, would be the 6th, 12th9
or SOth, prepared firom this 8x ? And a patient for whom
I selected grp. with care, and ordered the 6th dil., not
recovering I made inquiries, and found the prescription had
been dispensed at an allopathic dru^st's ; and on calling
on him about it he assured me he had prepared the dilution
himself. An allopathic druggist in my own neighbour-
hood has quite a good trade in so-called homooopathic
medicines, but he hiuB confessed to me that many of his
pilules were simply sugar of milk.
Abaoluta cleanliness, scrupulous care, and downright
eonscientiouBness are all required to be incessantly exer-
cised in the preparation and dispensing of homoBopathic
medicines, necessitating, indeed, the personal superin-
tendence of a properly qualified and conscientious homoBO-
paihic druggist, who himself thoroughly belieyes in ho-
mcBopathy.
In the preparation and dispensing of homoBopathic
medicines, there ought to be no scepticism about the
power of homoeopathic medicines. Here there can be no
compromise or partnership between the homoeopathic and
allopathic druggist or druggists' ideas. Here there must
be nothing slipshod, makeshift, uncertain, or substitutive ;
all must be certain, safe, genuine and positive. Almost
bQ the work ought to be done by adults, and such as have
a due sense of their responsibilities, and of the vital im-
portance of their work, there ought to be as few children
employed as possible : in fitust, the preparation and dis-
pensing of homoeopathic medicines ought not to be matters
of ordinary trade at all. They are matters of too vital
importance to the public weal to be made matters of mere
trade speeulation or business profit ; they are professional
matters, and ought to be performed as a part of the
honourable and sacred profession of medicine.
I am led to bring this matter before the members of
Congress by a yenoml knowledge of both carelessness and
dishonesty in both the preparation and dispensing of our
medidnea, and of serious consequences having arisen
therefrom; and because I think that not only should we
42 suFHBAfflA nr unjooxA.
u int.
be cxtremelj f^r^^nW* iiidifidoiIlT, but that flonie anttio*
litatiTe expression of opmion should go forth on the snb-
jeet from Congress, hmting to the goienl body of onr
fftmeti&men, and warning the patknt world and the pnbHe
ganenlly not to trust to medirineB, in the prepaiatioii of
whidi there may possiUy ha^e been any eaielessness, aris-
ing from a want of the tme professional leaponsihilitjy or
from mere trade notions.
I will eondnde by an abstract from a paper on the sab-
jeet read befiore the British Homiwyathift Pharmaceatieal
Society, 1879 :—
The threatoied reTofaitim in letafl trade, caused by the pre-
sent fiuhioiiable co-opentive syston — a flystem Tshnble wh^i
applied to proper olgects, and if carried on within legitimate
limits oocmB in danger of eneroadiiiig npon gromid wholly
beyond its prorinee, throng the HmcgKng ^^iftter of the argu-
numium ad pockoum Ms, d,i an apparoit saving ta Intymg bemg
too mneh regarded as the one essential, gualUg not being suffi-
ciently considered.
To buy in the cheapest maiket and sell in the dearest is one
of the first principles of political economy, whether in whcdesale
or retail transactioDs, and in r^ard to commodities of known
standard Tslne and qnality, is thoronghly right and practicable.
Bat when nsed in relation to sach articles as drags, whether
allopathic or homoeopathic, where eyen a technical knowledge of
the sabject (which few possess) hardly enables the porchaser to
recognise the valae and quality of the goods sold, sach a maxim
is not only totaUy impracticable, bat decidedly dangeroas, and it
is here that ** Gonoperative" or " Honsehold Stares" are a more
serioas sooree of mischief thsn mi^t be at first thoo^t
sopposed.
Liyerpool.
ON EUPHRASIA IN LEUCOMA,
Bt Abthub S. Kennedy, L.B.G J^, En., &c.
The following case seems to me of interest, on accoont of
the Tery satisfactory manner in which the drag corresponded
to bat slight indications from the prorings, and the short
time in which a serioas opacity cleared np under a saitable
homcBopathic remedy, after haying withstood the efforts of
old physic for a long time at one of the special hospitals.
Mr. D.y ffit. about 45, had for some months been suffering
from an opacity of the left eyeball, the result of an attack
of inflammation brought on by cold. He complains that it
SSJ^SImSS^ EUPHRASIA IN LEUOOMA. 48
interferes with his sight on looking at objects below the
lerel of the eyes, and is very mnoh afraid of losing his
sighty his employment being that of a chief clerk in the
ciirQ serrioe.
On examination, X found that there was a decided opacity
on the lower part of the cornea, encroaching slightly on
the lower border of the pupil and of an ill-defined shape ;
considerable photophobia, slight conjnnctiYitis, and lachry-
mation on exposure to cold air.
I found that he had for some time been attending at
Moorfields Hospital, where the treatment was confined to
dropping some irritant solution into the eye, the pain of
which was, as he described it, ** simply infernal,'* and the
beneficial result nil. The only consequence of this treat-
ment was the conjunctiyitis and photophobia which I found.
The first measure which I adopted was to exclude light
and cold air by a pad and bandage. This gaye immediate
relief to the inflammatory symptoms, and was much assisted
by bathing the eye with tepid milk and water.
The first prescription which I gave was tine, cede, carh,
12 gtt. ii. ter in die. This medicine was to be taken for ten
days, and the eye kept as much as possible from light and
cold air. At the end of this period I again examined him,
and found the conjuncti-ntiB better, probably owing to the
local measures, but the opacity just the same, if anything
rather larger. This time I ordered tine, euphrasia Ix
gtt. ii. ter in die.
During this period he had of course been absent from all
office work, aud had been living very much in the open air.
About a week after commencing the euphrasia I examined
the eye again, and was pleased to find noticeable improve-
ment. The area of the opacity seemed smaller, and less
dense, than on the former occasion. As he was going
away from home I ordered him to continue the medicine
for two or three weeks longer. After this I heard nothing
more of the case for two months. Meeting his wife lately
I enquired how his eye was, and was pleased to hear that
it was quite well and as strong as the other. Seeing the
patient himself some days after, he told me that after
taking the euphratia for a fortnight the opacity steadily de-
creased and vanished, much to his satisfaction, and he then
discontinued the medicine. On examination I could detect
no traces of the leucoma.
44 BBVUilB.
The pwmngi of €mpiwm§ia point more to aaaetm super-
ficial infiuDmatkni than to the lenofal of infiamwitoiy
prednets, but I fouid in Alkn and Norton^ pp. 68» that
'' opadtieB of the eornea, leaolting from repelled attacks
of inflammatian, are i^oited cored by aevetal ofaaervers."
Dr. Hnghfia aaya that "it is yery efficarions to lemoYO
apecks on the cornea." So from these anthoritiea and the
generalhiatoryof the case I decided to tiy the dmg; didso
with TCiy aatis&ctory lesnlis.
Blackheafth, S.E.,
December 1st, 1880.
REVIEWS.
Drug AtUmuOum: lu objects, modes, means, and limits in
Homtsopathie Pharmacy and Posology, By the Bureaa of
Materia Mediea, Fbarmaey and ProyingB in the American
Institate of Homeeopathy, 1879—1880. J. P. Dixs, M.D.»
Chftinman. Fhiladel^iia: Shenaan & Co. 1880.
** Tms volume, as the title indicates, is made np of papers pre-
sented by members of the Bnreaa of Materia l&dica^ Pharmacy
and Proyings at the meetings of the Institute held at Lake
Qeorge and Milwaukee. Takoi together, they form a treatise on
the satjeet of homcBopathic phaimacy, especis% npon dmg
attennation, snch as the profession has neyer had b^re, and
soch as cannot fail to be of interest to every student of the
honuBopathic method."
So commences the preface to this work, and after carefolly
reading the papers of idiich it is composed, we can thoroughly
endorse Ijie opinion here expressed. The important question of
dose is considered in all its aspects, and, as far as may be,
impartiaUy. There are also some very interesting papers <m
points of pharmacy, but it is to those on the dose question that
we would specially direct the attention of our readers. In the
first place we have the history of drug attenuation during the
life of EUbnemann, showing the various steps by which he
advanced from the ordinary doses of drugs to such as are
fractional, thence to infinitesimal doses, culminating in the
thirtieth dilution. Next comes the history of the subject since
the death of Hahnemann, giving a description of the various
and varying processes which have been from time to time
adopted, and as a means of comparison, Hahnemann's own
directions for the attenuation of drugs. ** The Bottle Washing
Method," consisting, apparentiy, of using one vial for all
dilutions. ''The Cont^on Potencies," which were, or must
i^imi. BIT1XW8* 4S
ne sary tte, made by piaeiiig one mediflitod lobule in a yi$l
oonhauaBg a large xnnaber of namediealed ones, and by boo-
ooflsien impngnatuig the mass ; truly a little leaven leaveneth
iftie ivliole Inmp 1 '* The Bneeoaeion Potencies/' known * as
*' Jenidben's/' m which a "pial was nsed, withont emptying, and
a new dfintkm ooonted for every ten shakes. ** !ni6 FLuxien
Betefidnes/' the newest and most imposing developmeBt, whieh
has reaehfld its present high state of perfection nuunly from the
exertions of Ihr. Swan, of New York, and Dr. Skinner, of
lAverpool, each of whom, actbg on mneh the same principle,
daima to produce the fifteen millionth dyntion, and still looks
forward to higher things — ^indeed, the latter asserts " that when
a f^ass Tcssfd has onee been thoron^^ impregnated with a
dn^, Niagara pomriog its torrent into it for twenfy thousand
years woidd not wash it ont." Yet that which this great force
fiuls to effect, exposure to flame for a few seconds accomphshes
peifeetiy. The spirits of drags must sar^ be evil since they
dread iksat so sorely.
The proof of the presence of drug material in the attenuations
is then examined. First from the standpoint of the '* Scientist,*'
and the results of examinations by the microscope, chemical
anaiysis, and the spectroscope are gi^en — ^these do not contain
mnch that is new, bat are good as far as they go. The micro-
seqpieal examinations tend to throw donbt <m tibe reality of the
soibdiTiBion prodoced by the triturating process, or at any rate
to show that the division of the particles is not pro^ssively
iofsreased beyond a certain point by contained trituration, and
that the prssence of particles being detected by the microscope
as hi^ as the ninth or eleventh decimal is due to the fact that
some of them escape division. A very elaborate paper by
Dr. C. Wesselhoeft, one of the most cautious observers among
Ameriean physicians, passes in review all the evidence to be
gathered from the latest views of molecular science, enunciates
the axiom *' thai the volume of a substance when reduced to
the liquid form is not much greater than the combined Tolume
of its moleenles," and from this deduces the conclusion ''that
from the eleventh to the thirte^th centesimal dilution would
fspcesent the highest point to which the division of matter can
be carried when r^resented by a fluid of the density of water,
and that therefore the ekvMith centesimal should be the practical
hndi of oior method of attenuating drugs.
The second branch of the subject is then considered; the
evidsDoe of the presence of drug matter in the attenuations from
fte stand point of therapeutist. This evidence is divided into two
elasflofl, one derived direcUy from the consensus of clinical experi-
ense ranging from Hahnemann to the present time, as to the cura^
tm value of the sixth, twelftby and tlmrtieth dilations, supported
4& BEVIEW8.
Bgfum, Jan. U lao*
by iha reeoid of the ezpoimoilB enzied out in Uie Leopoldsiadi
l^Mpital as to the companUiTe Tahie of the thirtieth, sixth, and
fifteenth dilutions in the treatment of pnenmonia, and by cases
of enre recorded by indindnal practitioners — the other is the
record of a series of experiments made duing 1879-80. In
these experiments, twenty-fiye sets of ten vials each were pro>
vided— one vial in each set containing the thirtieth dilation of
a known medicine, and the remaining nine simple alcohol — ^tha
problem was for the experimenter to discover by physical,
chemical, physiological, therapentic or any other test, which of
the vials contained the drag. Nine selected incorrectly, and
the remainder made no report
Another series of forty-eight sets of two vials each were
similarly provided, one vial containing the thirtieth dilution of
a known medicine, and the other alcohol only, and in one
instance only was a correct selection made.
With the lower dilations five experiments were made with
sets of ten vials, one containing the third decimal dilation and
the remainder dilate alcohol ; fi>nr oat of the five experimenters
reported correctly.
Three similar experiments with the fifth decimal were all
snccessful ; oat of seven made with the sixth decimal five were
correct ; of two with the seventh, one was correct ; and the
same result was obtained with the eighth and ninth, bat with the
tenth decimal both experimenters £uled. It had been expected
that Dr. T. F. Allen, now a well known name to every
homoeopath, would have assisted in the experiments with the
thirtieth dilation, in the efficacy of which he announced himself
fr firm believer, but his state of health unfortunately prevented
him from carrying out his intention.
These experiments seem to have been conducted with great
care and extreme precautions] to have been taken to prevent any
fraud or collusion. Following this matter of fact record, we
have some essays upholding the virtue of the higher and highest
dilutions, the evidence adduced in their favour being of the
character with which we have all been long familiar, individual
cases, often by no means fully or scientifically reported, and
wonderful instances of extreme susceptibility to drug action, are
taken as sufficient to prove things, which would need almost, as
one of the speakers said, that one should rise from the dead to
convince us of their truth. The strong objection to this dass of
evidence, is well put by Dr. McClellaiid, himself a high dilu-
tionist, who said, *' When I find a case of typhoid fever reported,
and a most frightful state of things existing, the patient
just at the last gasp, a case of genuine typhoid fever —
just as you all know, with certain pathological conditions pro-
duced— and a certain potency is given, and very often a very
hi^ potency, and lo ! behold, the next time he is visited, in
twentj-fonr hours, the patient is well. Now we all know ttiat
that cannot be. It cannot be. Yon appeal to people that onght?
to be reasoning people to believe things that cannot be. So
we find tamonrs described, malignant tumours, and a high
potency is given— ^r a low potency as the case may be, but I
really think the high potency is oftener mentioned. * A high
potency was given,* and under the influence of the drug, a cure
is reported. We know that a morbific growth is a thing of slow-
growth. It is something which is developed after months
and months, and years. When we hear the reports-
that one dose is given, and lo ! the next day the tumour
is gone. Now, I say that shocks the faith of the people-
in the testimony that is brought to bear as to the efficacy of high
potencies." It is not to be expected that any amount of evidence
will convince the extreme men of either party, but the moderate
dose man, the man who, willing to try anytlung, still prefers to
have some material ground for his practice, will find much in
this woric to interest him and confirm his faith.
** The whole question of dose wiU never be settled until expe-
rience includes numerous and accurate statistics obtained firom
hospitals and private practice. Experience must be based on
statistics which show the negative as well as the positive
results of treatment ; hitherto only favourable cases have been
reported."
In conclusion, we would urge all our colleagues to get this
book, as they wiU find in it much food for thought and practical
work, more than we have had space to mention.
It is, in short, a work which is the result of numerous ei^eri-
ments, a large amoxmt of careful observation and of much re-
flection. As such it is a very valuable contribution to a quasUo
vexata of no mean order. Pretty nearly all that can be said on
the dose question is set forth in the volume before us, and as &
thoroughly honest and scientific expose of the subject we com-
mend it to our readers.
NOTABILIA.
HAHNEMANN CONVALESCENT HOME,
BOURNEMOUTH.
A SALB of work to pay off the remaining debt on this institution
was held at the snudl Town Hall, on Tuesday, the 6th ult., under
the patronage of the Dowager Countess Feversham, the Countess
Cairns, the Hon. Mrs. Qrey, the Hon. Jirs. Tighe, Lady White,
48 NOTABTLTA> bSSw^SSH
Lady Biwm, Ite. Boyle, lira. Hull, Mrs. Femriek, Mrs. N«w-
man Smith, and Mn. Soell. This institation^ which is looated
<m the West Cfliff, was foimded some few years ago for the treat-
ment of oonTalesoent patients on konunopathie prineiples. The
ionndation stone was laid on the 4th January, 1676, by Eari
Caims, the then Lord Ohaneellor, by whom the building was
opened about a twelvemonth later, at which time the sum needed
to pay for it had been raised. A large expense, Yumevtir, had to
be inoorred for famishing, and seeing that heavy working ex*
penses have also had to be met, it is not surprising that a por-
tion of this debt remained, a sum of about 850L being required,
towards which it was decided to deyote the receipts from the
baaaar. Before mentioning particulars respecting the bazaar
itself we may state that the institation at the present time pro-
vides twelve beds, three distinct classes of patients being re-
ceived, namely, such consumptive patients as may be recom-
mended to Bonmemonth with a £ur hope of restoration or con-
siderable improvement, convalescent cases of a non-in£sctions
character from varions homosopathic hospitals and dispensaries,
and any aente non-in£ections cases which may occur in the prac-
tice of the local Homoeopathic Dispensary, and may be recom-
mended by the medical <^c6r.
The bazaar, which was patronised by a very large number of
influential visitors and residents, opened at eleven o'clock, but
without any formal ceremony. The chief stalls were held by
Mrs. Nankivell and Mrs. Hardy. The former was assisted by
Miss Brury, Miss Bowlandson, and the Misses Hull, the
latter by the Misses Eindermann, Miss Huth, and Miss Dacre.
The stalls were dressed with crimson cloth, draped with white
muslin and wreathed with evergreen and bracken. The Masters
Nankivell kept a children's stall, and were assisted by the
Misses Hull. This stall contained a number of articles made
by the patients of the Home. An art stall, draped with old
Italian lace, was presided over by Mrs. Masters, ably assisted by
Miss A. Drury and Mrs. Claude Strachey, and displayed a
nxmiber of choice pictures and china plates by A. H. Davis,
C. D. F. Pritchard, and others, together with several objects
of vertu. The refreshments were under the direction of
Mrs. Laughlin, the Lady Superintendent of the Home. During
the day choice selections of music were performed by Mrs. Flyter,
Mrs. Hutchinson, Miss Hull, Miss Levason, Miss Gcodwin, the
Misses Dunman, and Miss M. Dmxy, the pianoforte being lent
for the occasion by Messrs. Price and Bon. A beautiful collec-
tion of flowers from the nurseries of Mr. Bwaffield completed the
attractions of the day. The sum realised bordered close upon
two hundred pounds.
b^SmSS!* notabilia. 49
LONDON HOMGEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
Ifx understand that the Board of MaaagemAnt of this hoepilal
iiave determined on establishing a special department for Skin
Diseases, and have appointed Dr. GauuBT Buloklky to the charge
of it. Dr. Blackley has deyoted considerable care to the study
<of this class of diseases ; on the treatment of which he has
written several osefol papers. When in Vienna he was a pupil
of Hebra and Neumann.
BIRMINGHAM HOMCEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
Om Monday, the 18th ult., Mr. Samuel Bbamdbam recited
«< ICdsummer Night's Dream,'' Aytonn's '* Execution of Mon-
trose," and a scene from Sheridan's *'RiTals," before a large
and highly gratified audience at the Birmingham Town Hell.
Between the acts and the pieces Mr. Sfcimpson performed several
pieces on the magnificent organ which is so great an attraction
to visitors to the Town Hall of the metropotis of the Midlands.
Something Hke £&0 will, it is expected, be realised for the
benefit of the hospital.
DR. SIDNEY RINGER AND HOMCEOPATHY.
In The London Figaro of the 5th ult. appears a highly etdogistic
sketch of Dr. Sidney Ringer as a physician. Among other
things, the writer says : '* We read in a homoeopathic pamphlet
that Dr. Binger employed and recommended homoeopathic reme-
dies. We know not if the statement is accurate, but assuredly
if there are homoeopathic remedies that Dr. Ringer had tried and
found beneficial and curative he would employ and recommend
them. . . . Let it not be supposed Dr. Ringer belongs to
no school of medicine. He is an allopath ; that is to say, a
member of the general and orthodox school of medicine ; only
his medical mind is too free from sectarian bias to refuse to con-
sider and use a remedy because it was discovered by, or was the
leading remedy of some other school of medicine."
There is an air of catholicity and liberalism about a statement
of this kind very attractive '* to the million," to whom, according
to Figaro y Dr. Ringer '* is still a coming man." But it by no
means represents Dr. Ringer's position as it really is. True, he
does employ and recommend homoeopathic remedies, and he is
both wise and right in so doing. We do so ourselves. But
where homceopathists complain, and that justly, of Dr. Ringer, is
that while so doing he ignores and ridicules the principle that
led to the discovery of the remedies he employs and recom-
mends, and refuses ordinary professional courtesy to the men to
whom he is indebted for what knowledge of these remedies he
possesses. For example, in January, 1869, Dr. Ringer published
No 1, Vol. 25. a
o
60 NOTi^^miij n ;:^ ;.^^j^
; Jsi. 1, 1B81.
in the Lanest an essay on acomUf seUing forth its clinical nses.
It was reprinted in the Review in our ensuing number, with foot
notes pointing to the yolome and page of the homoeopathic works
in which snular observations had already been made. The
principle wldch led to these observations was that of similia
nmaiifrttf curantur. But Dr. Binger never once mentioned this,
never -once gave so mnch as a hint that these dmical applications
of ucomUe were not original observations 1
It is against this silent repudiation of the bridge which has
carried hun to tiie high place in the rank of modem therapeutists
that he«ooci^ie6, that we have always protested. It is the want
of geoberoflify, lack of simple honesty tiiat characterises the pro-
cee#tig» that is so offensive to our sense of what is right and
hMKOurable.
Had Dr. Qinger adopted mnch or little of homoeopathy into
his praetiQe, and at the same time given fiill credit to those
iriiose work had afforded him the means of doing so, to the
principleof dn^-selection which had been the basis of their work,
we should have been the first to congratulate him on his
prescience. As it is, his manner of doing what he has done has
been* too discreditable to him to enable us to do so,
HOMGEOPATHY IN BELGIUM.
Ax a meiAiag of the Association Gentrale des Homoeopathes
Beiges, held at Brussels on October 6th, it was resolved to pre-
sent tJae following address to the Senate and Chamber of
Bopresentatives of Belgium : —
<* To the Presidents and Members of the Chamber of Bepre-
seatativ^s and the Senate of Belgium : —
*' The Aiisociation Centrale des Homoeopathes Beiges, at the
close of last year, had the honour of submitting to the Govern-
ment and- to the Legislative Chambers a petition relating to the
teadung ^f. homoeopathy in the higher educational establish-
ments supported by the State. This petition was the subject of
an interesting discussion in the Senate at the session of
M^y lOtb,, 1880.
^^Cncouraged by .the sympathy which was manifested towards
iky and by l£e movement of public opinion, the Association
CeotrfJe des Homoeopathes Beiges ventures to come before you
again to respectfully ask for your votes.
^'•What was our astonishment to hear one of our most bigoted
opponents say in the senate that ' there was neither homoeopathy
np^alli^athy 1' No one, however, is deceived by this, and why ?
because the fundamental formulae of the two systems are op-
posed ; WiS apply lite law of similars ; our adversaries depend
ogjjtibfrjaw of oiintnirMs. The study of drugs is carried on in a
SSrtS^SrnSr* noxabilia. 51
ffiforant method in the two systems. We employ small doses,
whilst oar adyennnes have Fecoorse to strong ones.
** Yfefte the assertion of onr opponents correct, it wonld form
an additional reason for the seientifio explanation of homceopathy
in the nniversities. Those who look on it as an error wonld then
he obliged to zeldte it by other means than insnlts, witticisms, or
common-places.
«< Those who, like omrsehres and onr patients, hail it as an ad*
Tttnee in science and a public benefit wonld be no longer nnpar-
donably hnrt in their conscience by a teaching enjoying exdnsiya
pririlegee, to the detriment of most respectable rights and con-'
mictions.
" We yentore, then, gentlemen, to beg of yon to lend the
weight of yonr legitimate influence
** Ist. To the institntion in each University of the State (for
iiie lenities of Medicine and Pharmacy), and in the Veterinary
College, of aOhair of Homoeopathy associated with clinical instroo-
iion. Attendance on the comrse should be optional ; bnt stadents*
who desire to submit themsdves to a special examination on
homoeopathy should be entitled, in case of success, to haye men-
tion of it ei^orsed on their final diploma.
2nd. To the embodiment of homodopathio drugs in the official
fharmaoopoeia. Homoeopathic jj^ysidans being obliged, in towns
at least, to avail themselves of the chemists, these ought at
least, in reciprocity, to be obliged to prepare our prescriptions,
and to keep homoeopathic remedies in their shops. This ques-
tion is the more opportune at present, as it will find its-
natural place in the approaching discussion on ihe 4ieau
pharmaeopona.
*'W6 pray you, gentlemen, to receive the honour of our
respects. Dr. Mabtxnt, President.
J. Maks, Secretary.
PBOQRESS OF HOMCEOPATHY IN MEXICO.
Ok the IStli of September, 1880, in the Hospital of La Lave,
at Oriiaba, two wards were opened, devoted exclusively to
bomoeopathio treatment. The opening cenamony was very
impressive; the governor of the province^. attended by a de-
tadiment of troops as a guard of honour, presided over the
eeremony. He made a. speech, and than, went in procession
thromi^ the two wards. In the male ward was. a veiled bust of
Hahnemann ; the governor unveiled this, and declared the
hospital open. Other i^^dies were .delivered by M. Eliezer
Es^nosa, M. le lb. Ismael Takvera^.snd M. le I)r. Cresencio
OdmrOi MaMO,.as:^iepi?esQiitalises^£iihe. Mexican. Institute of
IfaMisopalhy, ^ewa^jJdMuillq^atfaio.st8ff,JDdn^AhnmadaaQd
—2
62 HOTABILIA.
Joffine, awarted at the eeremanj. Br. Mesa akma noidd naithflr
pay a visit nor set foci in the bospitid on that day.
It is enlnely doe to tlie eflbrts of MIL Bamon HernandeSt
Edward de Pid>loB, inspeeior of lioepitals, and Dr. Talavera,
that honuBopathy has been intiodneed into hospital praettce.
The two wards whieh have just been granted to them oontain,
the one, 17 beds for men, the other 8 for women. M. le Dr.
Talavera is appointed as physician on the staff.
We coapratnUite oor Meziean eonfriret most heartilyt and
wish Dr. Talavera a hamper of soeeess.
THE ARGA PEBSICA.
A 00BBB8F01IBK1IT of the Poify Ainot, in an interesting aoconnt
of a jonmey thron|^ Teheran, pnUished dnring the aatomn, gives
the Allowing aeconnt of the bite of this insect Mesrah is in
the plain which reaches away by Eesrin to Teheran. He writes,
*' I had been warned, on the peril of my life, not to sleep at
Mesrah, becaose there was to be fonnd Uie gamib-gez (literally^
' bite the stranger.') Theeflfect of the bite was described to me
as being on the whole mnch worse than that of the black scorpion.
Our horses ooold carry us no farther, and, nathless the dread
which I had of the creature described to me, I had perforce to
make a halt of half an hour at the dreaded station.
" One of the first questions which I aeked of the stable atten-
dants was whether they coold show me a specimen of the ' bite
the stranger.' After a few minutes' search, the man brought me
oat half a dozen in the palm of his hand. The largest was not
over the third of an inch in length, and resembled in form what
is vulgarly known as the ' wood loose ' in England. It was of
a silvery grey appearance, -and had, as I carefully remarked,
eight legs, four on each side. I should at once have set it down
as one tiie arachnoid [or spider family were it not for the entire
absence of the dual division of cephahihorax and abdomen which
distiogaish that family. Notwithstanding this, it may, and
probably does, belong to the fiunily in question. Its sting is
productive of the worst results. A small red point like that
produced by the ordinary flea is at first seen. Then follows a
large black spot, which subsequently suppurates, accompanied
by a high fever, identical, as far as external symptoms go,
with intermittent fever. In this it is like the bite of Uie
tarantula or phalange of the Turcoman plains. The only
difierence is, that ttie fever produced by the sting of this
insect, known scientifically as the arga Persica, and locally
as the garrib-gez and Gemne, if neglected for any length of time,
is fatal. It is accompanied by lassitude, loss of appetite, and in
some cases delirium. I have seen it mentioned in an old French
book, giving an account of the French embassy to Teheran in
Sff^S^^^SS"* NOTABILU. 68
Svfiew, Jan. 1« 18BI.
1806-7; hat the writer had had no personal experiences to
narrate. He called it the moucfie de Miane. Miana is a village
on the same stream as Mesrah, and is well known as one of the
kabUats of this pestilent insect. It is styled hj the inhabitants
of ^e places which it frequents the ' bite the stranger,' for
the inhabitants of the place never experience any inconvenience
from its sting. There is a general belief that once a person has
been stung, the * Persian bng* is harmless against the same
individual, and this would seem to be borne out by flEMt ; for the
people living in the village of Mesrah laughed at my fears as I
carefully perched myself on the top of a rock with a view of
keeping out of the way of the local bugs, while the people of the
place kept them with impunity in the palms of their hands.
Some Austrian officers going to Teheran last year, happening to
stay at this hamlet of Mesn&, were stung by tiie garrib-gez. All
were ill, and one narrowly escaped with his life. Numerous
eases of death can be cited as the result of the sting of the arga
Penica, Speaking on the question to a Persian doctor, he
informed me that it was the custom, when any important per-
soni^ was travelling through any district infested by these
' Persian bugs ' that lus attendants administered to him without
his knowledge one of the " bugs " concealed in a piece of bread
during the early morning. Experience has shown that when one
has been bitten, and recovers, he is for the future guaranteed
against further icjury. It is a kind of inoculation, and the local
physicians believe that the poison taken through the stomach is
administered with equal good effect as if received directly into
circulation. A leading European member of Teheran Society
informed me that he had simultaneously received seventy-three
stings from these insects, the bites having been counted by his
servants. The result was an extreme amount of fever, winding
up with delirium on the fifth day. Violent emetics, followed by
doses of qtdnxne, were given without effect ; and it was only on
takmg large quantities of tannin, in the form of a decoction of
the rind of the wild pomegranate, that the patient recovered.
For a great part of my information on this snbject I have to thank
Mr. Sidney Churchill, of Teheran, a young and rising naturalist
who has devoted mudi of his time and talents to the entomology
of Persia."
HOMCEOPATHY AT HAUPAX.
The attempt recently made by the allopathic sect at Halifax to
oust Mr. Amley from the post of Medical Officer of Health for that
borough has failed as signally and ignominously as it deserved
to do. After some pressure brought to bear upon the Sanitary
Committee by the allopathic sect, a Mr. Cookson was appointed.
This the Council refused to confirm, and Mr. Ainley was unani-
S4 NOTABILU, ^'SS^^STSm^
moBflly elected Medkal Offiaerof Health Ibi the aext.ihxee
years.
This victory shews that, if the lay fidends of homiBopathy, if
thoee who profit byitilEyr more than thdr medwil adTisecs do, will
oidy iaaut on fair play being acoorded to homcBopatfaie practi-
tionerSy a doe share of pnhlic appointments will fedl to their lot.
It is not the oonfessioii of faomoBopathy that is the barrier to sooh
offices being filled by homosopatUc practitioners, but tho apathy
or indifference of those who beheye in homceopi^y.
* t I ■ 111 I ^^— ^»i 111 I. I ■■■ . II II I ■
ALEXIS ST. MARTIN.
"NLaxy of our xeaders will be surprised to leam that Alexiit St.
Martin, to whom physiobgists are eternally indebted for nearly
all the reliable information they have acquired about the pro-
cesses of digestion, is still alive. Every work on Physiology
recounts the experiments made by Dr. Beaumont on St. Martin's
perforated stomach.
In a magazine called The Western Temperance Herald for last
month appears a letter from Mr. T. B. Fox, of Hyde Boad,
Waterloo, near Liverpool, who states that when on a visit to
some friends in Gloucester, he '' there met Mr, Welford, a young
medical gentleman from Canada, who had come over to England
to perfect himself in his profession, before entering on a practice
in the Dominion. In the course of a highly interesting conversa-
tion with him, chiefly on the subject of the effects of alcohol on
the human body, and its value or otherwise as an application in
medicine, I happened to ask him if he had ever heard or read of
the wonderful case of Alexis St. Martin. ' I have not only read
and heard of him,* said he, ' but I have seen the man repeatedly,
and indeed quite recently.' ' What,' said I, ' is he still living ?
Why he must be a very old man now.' ' He is not only still
living, at a good old age,' said Mr. W,, ' but I am ashamed to
say he is living in obscurity and almost poverty, to the eternal
disgrace of the medical profession all over the world, who have
leauit more about the process of digestion, the functions of the
stomach, and the effects of different kinds of food and drink on
the body, through him, than by any other means they h^ve ever
been able to command. It is a great shame that the Medical
Faculty do not subscribe and buy him a Bubstantial [annuity,
seeing what obligations the whole medical world is under to him,
for the knowledge derived by means of a study of his case." '
We should be very glad to see this suggestion acted upon.
Physiology owes St. Martin much more than those who profit by
their knowledge of it can ever repay him. Mr. Fox will be
pleased to put anyone desiring to help him in the way of doing
so. St. Martin is living near Woodstock, in Canada West.
••THE TEOE SECtffiT OF HOlK^WAlttflrtfr
PoiMOT 0taM it long agoi ''Ho mt» 0#tf<'Mf' U ti^e^
and th«i H follows, fts the night the d«jr^ th6«i«^ftMl%t fiot^ilito
b« lake U> Hakfumann," — Funky FoU»,
■ - ■ —*■
BRITISH BOMCEOPATHIC SOQI&ISSl
The next meeting of this Society will be hdd oti 'tlinrs'daj, the
6th inst., at seyen o*clock, when a paper will be read by Dr.
Hu6H£3y on Two Anomalous Cases of Chronic Arisntcal Poisoning,
nM IT^.fllH iKllf lllwlH
CORRESPONDENCE.
THE LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMOEOMlffir. .
TSR iNTBRlfATIONAI. RBCOOMmOW B^ttfeM.
To the Editors of the Monthly Homceapathic Benitmie
GsNTiJBMEN, — ^The objects of this scheme were setTorCh ih1;he
paper read by me at the Leeds Congress, in September. BHefly
they are these: — It is desirable that the number of sHIled
homoeopathic physicians and surgeons should be increased, so
that reliable homoeopathic practitioners should be established in
every town or district in Great Britain containing ltf,000 inhabi-
tants. At present the homoeopathic clientele is fkr too large
and too scattered to be able to obtain skilled practitioners of
homoeopathy for all their ailments. While the patients are in
London or its neighbourhood, or in or near some oth^r large
town, they can readily obtain the advice they reqtiife, but in the
country districts it is different ; they must then, in case of severe
illness, either send to London or some other gt^at city fot
advice, at an expense that none but the very wealthy can affbrd,
or they must trust to be treated by correspondence (which is to
some extent risky, and always troublesome and a soutce of
anxiety), or they must trust ^emselves to domestic treatment
or treatinent by amateurs ; or, lastly, they must call in the advice
of a practitioner of the old school, and, for a time, revert to
a system which they believe to be fraught with dmlg^rs and
inconTeniences. This also is a great hardship.
Therefore we desire to increase the present veryisnMl fetnflbeT
of skilled homceopa^c physicians and surgeons.
There are three ways of doing this which are openrttrttd.
The one, is represented by eur London School of&tmtaoptxthy
as at present oonstituted, viz., that of providing lecttsifes on
66 00BBB8HMIDSHGB.
BMiev. Jan-UlflBL
the sdflQce and pg^tiae of medicine, *^>*^^^«g cmUf thoupoifUM
in irhich our science leads os to differ firom the ordinary teaching
of the allopathie medical schools. This mode of teaching is-
therefinre intended as sopplemenlary only to the osnal medical
school conraes. There ia this praekical difficulty, which I fear-
is insiq>erable. The present aehame of medical education
demandfl that /<ncr years' medical stody shall be gone through
before a diploma, degree, or license to practise is granted.
Most students, after four years' study at a uniyersity or college,
are desirous to enter at once into practice, and cannot or will
not devote a fifth year to the study of any new subject, such as
honuBopathy. There are other reasons and objections on which
I need not enter hero that they are potent is dearfiromthe act
that the som of homaopathic praetiiioners have not, as a ruUy
attended the lectures given in our school, althou|^ their £athera
acknoidedge that our lecturers and teachers are excellent.
The second course open to us, is that of founding a complete
new medical school in which aU the usual branches of neutral
study shall be taught, and, in addition, the HomoBopathic Materia
Medica, and the HomoDopathic Science and Practice of Medicine
and Suigeiy.
No doubt but this is the best poBsible thing to do, but there
are practical difficulties. In the first place, our first student
could not be fitted to practise till four years after the opening of
the new school^ and the new school itself could not be formed
and ready to work for some two or three years. We must
enlarge the hospital to 100 to 150 beds (at present there are less
than 70). We must collect together a sufficient staff of teachers,
whom we must subsidise for some years, until the school became
self-supporting ; and, in fact, the hospital and school will require
a stmi of at least J6100,000 before we could hope to start a really
efficient school. Who will give us JglOO.OOO for so noble a.
purpose ? At present, I fear we have less than £8,000 collected
or promised for the school.
Therefore, we must seek some other (third) course whick
will promise us an immediate or early supply of good homoeo-
pathic practitioners. To my own mind such a source of supply
is to be found only in America, and even there the practitioners
are not ready made to our hands, for this reason: Our practi-
tioners must be in every respect as wdl instructed^ both praeticaUy
and theoretically ^ as are those of the old school. Now in America
the course of study demanded by many of the universities or
colleges is of less duration than our own. In some of the
medical schools two years' instruction is deemed sufficient ta
allow a man to submit himself for examination. In the majority
of the schools three years is deemed sufficient. Now, as in this
country no man is allowed to guaUfy under four years, we could
ISS^SHTwS!^ 00BB«8P0NDBN0B. 57
not aak the Me<Koal Coanoil to register these gentlemen in Eng-
land aa legally qnaMed. But in such a case this is what I
woold propose-'that the oonrse of education received, in Amerioa^
should he admitted as eqoal to a similar period passed in medical
study in England, and that a course of lectures or hospital
praetice passed throng in America should count as equivalent
to a similar course in England. So that any man who has
graduated in America, at the end of two years* course of study,
shall be only required to pass two years further in an Engli^
medical school or hospital, and may then present himself for
eomplete examination, which, if he passes, shall allow him to
register. The man who has graduated after a three years* course*
in America being only expected to pass one year longer in
medical study in England, &c.
By this sdieme, which would inyolve our having an examining
board connected with our hospital and school in England, we
might very soon add a not unimportant number of homoeopathic
physicians and surgeons to our present ranks.
But, in offering ^is recognition to the graduates of American uni-
versities and schools, it also appeared to me we should have a right
to expect an equivalent recognition from them for the student work,
done at our own London School of Homoeopathy, and I wrote
the following note accordingly, sending a copy of it to the presi-
dent, dean, or secretary of each of the eleven universities, coUegeSp,
or medical echooh in America, enumerated below : —
The University of Boston.
The University of Michigan.
The University of Iowa.
The Hahnemann Medical College of Chicago.
The Chicago Homoeopathic College.
The New York Medical College for Women.
The Pnlte Medical College of Cincinnati.
The Homoeopathic Medical College of St. Louis.*
The Homoepathic Hospital College of Cleveland, Ohio.
The Hahnemann Medical College of Philadelphia.
The New York Homoeopathic Medical College.
To this letter, which is subjoined, I have received the follow-
ing replies. In addition to my letter the authorities of the
London School of Homoeopathy officially forwarded a copy of
Dr. Bichard Hnghes' new edition of his Pharmaeody7iamics, em-
bodying his leetures delivered within the school. This volume
was presented to the president, dean, or secretary of each of
fha medical schools (homoeopathic) in America. A copy of our
rules, of our last report, and of the announcement of the coming
sessional wtcnrk was also sent to the same school officials.
^ About to be called the St. LooIb College of HomoBopathio Physidana
and Soxgeoni.
SB coBBBSPOfnxmcB.
.J-
Hie Ifltten wSk wpetk for ttwiuwilnB, and dmv a oovAial aad
geanal vpjprrmiifm of our cfort far mutual lawignition, irtdehl
hope, and believe, viH be wannly i»-eekoed by ^bt wkmiB hoAj
oCoBrprofcwBnna] faretlnai on tfaia side.
Toon tnil^,
Hon. Seerelaiy to the Ttfrndon School of HomcBopattij^-
81, Hemietia Street,
Cayendirii Sqnaze, Tmwdon, W.
Iares or I>B. Bates to xhb Hbadb op isb Unvmsma
AID Mffiwr.iT. ScHooLB iH Amkbiqa: —
0*1 TTiiMi iM ill I *^' '
2SI, xunnetta uueei,
Gayendidi Sqiiaze, London, W.
29th Jnly, 18S0.
To Dr.
Dean of-
** Dkab Sm, — ^At a meeting of Che Committee of the London-
Sehool of Homoeopathy held on Monday, Jnly 12ih, I reeeiyed
peimiflnon to apply to the anthorities of your nniyersity (or
eoQege^, asking yon to consider whether yon wonld incline to
recognise snch lectures as are or may be deliyered at
car school, as equivalent to lectures on the same subjects
delivered in the school of your uniyersity (or college),
provided the courses are equal in scope and number f
We, on our part, accepting your lectures as equivalent to ours of
equal number and scope. We haye a great want of qualified
practitioners of homoeopathy in Great Britain, both medical
education and the granting of degrees and diplomas, is
at present wholly in the hands of an allopathic monopoly,
which excludea homoeopatfaie teaching from all the re-
cognised schools. But it has occurred to me that we
may be able to obtain legal powers to examine and grant
diplomas or licenses to those who haye obtained American and
foreign degrees or diplomas, provided their courses of instruc-
tion come up to the standard demanded by the oonstituted
medical authorities at present existing in Great Britain, and
further, that when the courses of such American or foreign
universities or colleges are shorter and less complete than those
required in Great Britain, we might obtain powers to supplement
such deficiency in our English School of HomcBopathy . If
an American diploma or degree can be obtained after two yeara'
study, and if the English standard requires four years* course of
instruction, we still might be allowed to count those two yesfi
of having so far qualified the candidate, and then proceed to add
two years' further study in this or some other country, after
which (four years having been completed) we could proceed ta
Sa^SSTS^ COBBMPOK0BNOB. 6©
enuaine sneh eandidate, and gtsni our degree or diploma to
such as passed satisfaetorily. Wfami the American oomne pre*
scribes three years' courses of instmction, we should add one
year's course in our school before proceeding to examine and
grant the diplonuu Before taking any further step, will you
have the courtesy to furnish me wi^ full particulars as to the
course of study demanded of the graduates of your uniyersity or
^oil^e, and belieye me, with the highest consideration,
My dear Sir, yours most faithfully,
W. B., &o.,
Hon. Seereiary, &e.
P.S. — You will kindly understand that we have, at present,
no licensing power, but by the action contemplated above we
hope ultimately to obtain such powers."
The letters received in reply to the foregoing, one and all
express the deepest sympathy with the efforts being made in
England to extend the knowledge and increase an appreciation of
the homcBopathic method. The acknowledgment of Dr. Hughes'
new edition of his work on Pharmacodymanics is ui each ac-
companied by a warm encomium on its value as an introduction
to the study of Materia Medica. We regret that our space pre-
cludes our giving the letters in extenso, but the following extracts
will suffice to show how thoroughly our American colleagues are
prepared to co-operate with Dr. Bayes in his proposed scheme.
Dr. DowLiNO, Dean of the New York Homoeopathic Medical
College and President (elect) of the American Institute of
Homoeopathy, says : *' I wiU lay the matter before our faculty
on my return from my summer vacation. I can safely assure
you that the lectures delivered in the London School of Homoeo-
pathy win be recognised by our school."
Dr. A. B. Thosias, Dean of Hahnemann Medical College,
Philadelphia, in promising to lay the matter before the next
meeting of the faeulty, says : ''I can see no difficulty or
objeciion in the plan you propose.*'
Dr. Talbot, Dean of the Medical Faculty of the University of
Boston, writes : '* Be assured that any plan you may adopt will
receive our most cordial consideration and effort in bringing
the Transatlantic schools into co-operation that they may assist
each other, and mutuaUv benefit and advance the profession. As
soon as some definite pL of action is determined npo° I hope
you will inform me, and also in what way we can best aid you."
Dr. HoTNB, Registrar of Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago,
describes the course of study pursued in the college, which
appears to be both thorough and practical.
Dr. Adaiks, secretary of the Homoeopathic Medical College of
Chieago, says that the '* college will be happy to enter into some
igement with the school," Dr. Bayes represents, ''provid*
60 COBBBSPONBBNCB. **^2S-^SS'?^*
Bflview, Jan. 1, IBBl.
ing thore is not too great a dlTeraity in the Tespectiye sehednlefr
of lectures, &c., to admit of snch interchange of eonrses.
Dr. Watjosb, Dean of the St. Lotus College of Homceopathic
Physicians and Surgeons, replies that — *' As soon as your school
has a legal organisation, we wiQ no doubt give you the full recog-
nition you desire. If your school, consisting of a company of
physicians united for the purpose of teaching homoeopafiiy and
the other usual branches, and yet having no charter nor legaF
status, our bye-laws would not allow us to recognise it as a
college. As soon as yon can claim a legal existence as a school
of medicine we will be glad to extend to you the courtesy yon
ask." In a subsequent letter Dr. Walker expresses his hearty
sympathy in the movement for international recognition.
Dr. Phillips, registrar of the Homoeopathic Medical College
of Cleveland, writes that he was authorised by the faculty to
state that, " Provided a student attend fifty-five lectures upon
the branches named in your school, he will be accredited with one
full course upon the said subjects upon entering our college, pro-
vided, of course, he be otherwise qualified.'*
Dr. Fbanslin, Dean of the Homoeopathic Medical Faculty, in
the University of Michigan, after an expression of interest in the
London School of Homoeopathy, says : — '' We desire to maintain
the most perfect accord and reciprocity in college education. We
will recognise all lectures delivered in your school as equivalents
to those delivered in our department of the university, provided
the courses are equal in scope and number. ... If your
students, after taking certain courses of study, wish to come here
to obtain their degree, we will accept their official evidence of study
as equal to ours as far as they go and^ give them full credit for
such courses.*'
Dr. CowpsBTHWAiTE, Dsau of the Homoeopathic Medical
Faculty in the University of Iowa, says that he is ''pleased to
state that we have unanimously decided to recognise such lectorea
as are or may be delivered in the London School of Homoeopathy
as equivalent to lectures on the same subjects delivered in the
Homoeopathic Medical Department of the State Universiiy of
Iowa."
DR. BERRIDGE'S DISCLAIMER.
To the Editors of the Monthly Honuzopathic Review.
GsKTLEifEN, — ^In reference to the disclaimer of Dr. Benidgei
in your November number, I learn, from Dr. Drysdale, that he
has no intention of taking up the subject of homoeopathic
auxiliaries controversially, as his opinions on this point hav&
lS^2ST5Sffl^ OOBBBSPONDENCB. 61
been already pretty folly expressed, and his time and attention
are otherwise oecnpied. As Dr. Berridge is Tery much surprised
that Dr. Drysdale should have included him in the general rank
and file of homoeopathic practitioners, I venture to make a sng*
gestion or two with a view of diminishing this evidently painful
feting. Dr. Berridge has posed for some time as a purist, and
has lost no opportunity of announcing his creed in public ; he
has cried it from the house-tops with a most remarkable persever-
ance, and he may naturally ask why his claims to distinction are
not awarded him. The answer I take to be, judging solely from
Dr. Drysdale 's paper, the same in principle that is expressed by
the legal maxim, " de minimis non curat lex;'* and, secondly, that
**exceptio probat rs^ukan,** Furthermore, Dr. Drysdale evi-
dently referred to men practising medicine generally, and not
sectionaUy, and as Dr. Berridge states that '* the whole of his
medical practice is distinctively homoeopathic and nothing else,**
it is evident that he has no midwifery or surgery, and certainly
would not undertake to administer a chemical antidote in a case
of poisoning. This is obvious from the fact that Dr. Berridge
has not had to answer a charge of malpractice or criminal neglect
in a court of law. In midwifery, to reduce the armamentarium
to the smallest dimensions, a pair of scissors at least is necessary,
and that is unquestionably a non-homoeopathic auxiliary, unless,
indeed, Dr. Berridge gets the nurse to do this doughty deed, anS
so save his medical conscience. In any case requiring the least
mechanical interference Dr. Berridge must transfer tibe respon*
sibility to someone else, to save, not merely his conscience, but
his privilege of residing outside a gaol. In surgery, again, if he
should fail to treat a hernia, a dislocation, or a fracture properly,
the law would have something to say to him. Again, in a case
of poisoning by sugar of lead, to omit the sulphate of magnesia
would be risky to both patient and doctor. For a man to throw
away the assistance of enemata in obstruction of the colon, of
stimulants in cases of extreme exhaustion, of chloroform in
operations, and of a score of other invaluable auxiliaries, would
be as rational as for a mechanician to throw away the screw, the
inclined plane, the pulley, and the wedge, and to announce to
the world as a great advance in purity of practical mechanics
that he was going in future to employ the lever, and nothing but
the lever, and that whoever resorted to other instruments was a
mongrel, &o. Why, the world would rightiy set down such a
man as an absolute lunatic, and it is difficult to see where the
analogy fails in the case of the medical man. If Dr. Berridge*s
practice is such as he describes, we can only infer that he avoids
the rough-and-tumble of the work-a-day world, and limits his
labours to the flowery paths of chronic diseases, in which the
worst that happens for the most part is a fall on the grassy
62 COREESPONDBNOE. ^S£SL^5Sf^^
Beriefw, Jan. 1, 1881.
sward. Bat the case is not yet folly stated. *' Methinks the
gmUentan doth protest too maoh," Tliere is mesmexism. That
is a non-homoeopathic auxiliary, and we presume he emjdoys it, be-
cause Halinftmann did. Onr colleague's creed seems to be inade-
quate here to cover his practice. Mesmerism finds particular favour
with high dilutionists, most likely because its subtlety is supposed
to be akin to the super-subtiely of the c.m*s and nun's. But a
coarse materialistic aid, like a pessary or a poultice, is revdtiQg
to their fine sensibilities. These practitioners ought to adopt
the following annorial bearings : — ^a shield, parted per pcUe, a
varicocele, pendent^ nfdstsr, and a suspensory bandage, clUo
pendent, degker, with the motto, *' Non tali auziHo." Thus sig-
nificantiy blazoned, the world would know these knights for what
hey are.
Our colleague may say, in reply, that he does not object to
acyuvants of a mechanical kind, although his words are *^ dis-
tinctively homoeopathic and nothing else.'* If he should so
reply, it must be asked on what principle is this line to be drawn
at mechanical aids ? Why not also thermal, electrical, chemical,
dietetic, &c. ? There is no prerogative attaching to mechanics,
and, providing there is no antagonism between the homoeopathic
treatment and the auxiliary, it is difficult to see on what grounds
any kind of collateral aid is to be objected to.
The truth is, that the position taken up by Dr. Berridge involves
a Bhadamanthine rigour of treatment. When nature, in her
hour of weakness, asks assistance, no concession is to be made.
The homoeopathic drug is to do the work, and, as we know, does
it well ; but in the meantime, until the balance is adjusted and
strength returns, are we to exact the tale of bricks without the
necessary straw ? Is the stomach to digest the food of strong
men, the skin to bear the extremes of heat and cold, the muscular
system to have no rest, the heart and bowels no assistance ? Dr.
Bemdge says, " No t No aniiliaries 1 "
It has been said that in some sense we are' all better than our
creeds, and our colleague is probably no exception. He doubt-
less concedes a great deal more than he confesses to : if not, so
much the worse for his patients. In conclusion, these remarks
have not been intended to specify what and when auxiliaries may
be employed, but simply to defend the principle, that they not
only are but must be employed, and that to limit them to mecha-
nicaji and merely external appliances is quite illogical, and not
even Hahnemannic. Besides, such repudiation of them is
opposed to well-established professional facts, and caasoot in any
ci^sed community be practised without subjectiz^ the prao-
titioner to legal penalties. It is timo, therefore,^ thttt ve^ licard
bSS^STiSb?** C0BRB8P0NDBNCB. 68
the last of «aoh profesflioiis of exelnsiveness, seemg that they are
dermoid of all practical foondation, and have degenerated into the
cant of a minute section of the homoeopathic body.
Yours, &c.,
P. Pboctob.
17, HamDton Street, Birkenhead,
Dec. 15, 1880.
HOMCEOPATHIO HISTORY AND SCOTCH HUMOUB.
To the Editors of the Monthly Honuxopathic Review,
QsNTLEHXN, — ^Pniy let me draw the attention of your readers,
and especially of Dr. Black, to his letter which appeared in your
Review of last month, in which he quotes my assertion ** that
Dr. Quin fully intended, when' the British Homoeopathic Society
was founded, to ultimately apply for a charter.'*
Dr. Black then proceeds to state that he applied to Dr. Hamil-
ton and Mr. Hugh Cameron to controvert my statement.
Dr. Hamilton's letter, with great literary tact, avoids the ques-
tion of the charter altogether. But Mr. Hugh Cameron, treating
Dr. Blaek very much as Balaam treated Bal^, states in his reply
that '' Dr. Qmn, in the early days of the Society and to the end
of his life, hoped that the Society would ultimately attain such a
status as would entitle it to a charter." I cordially thank
Mr. Cameron. How, then, does Dr. Black compile homoeopathic
history. Dr. Yeldham, Mr. Cameron, and the printed report of
Dr. Qu2n*s views in the Annals of the British HomcBopathie
Society y all support my assertion that '' Dr. Quin fully intended,
when the British Homoeopathic Society was founded, to ulti-
mately apply for a ^^harter."
To what exact purpose the charter would have been put by
Dr. Quin and his early friends there is no documentary evidence
to show. I am content with the evidence that it was intended
to apply for a charter. Whether Dr. Hamilton has exactly
gauged the depth of wisdom of his friend Dr. Quin's diplo-
matic mind, as he claims to have done, I know not.
Yours truly,
WixjJAx Bates, M.D.
21, Henrietta Street,
Cavendish Square, W.
64 OOKBESPOliSEBTS. "SS^^STSfMn!
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
^\ We etamoi mmderiake to return rejected wmmucripti*
Commiimeations, Ae. liATe been reeehred from Dr. B^m, Dr. Bonr,
Dr. YsLDHAK, Dr. Gaujr Blacklxt, Dr. Bsbudok, and Mr. Habbis
<LaiidoD); Mr. BnauBi»Bani (Bzighton) ; Dr. GibbsBlaxs (Birfnifighmn) ;
Dr. ExsKEDY (BlaeUiMth); Dr. Hatwabd (Lmipool); Dr. P&ociob
^Ltverpool) ; Dr. Jbssbh (Chieago) ; Mr. Wizuamb (liverpool) ; Dr. Shabp
(Bngby).
Ebbatdv.— In Dr. BBBBmoB'g '* Olanderinnm,** p. 558 (Sept.), last
line bat one, lor " Vidva *' read " Felica."
BOOKS RECEIVED.
Medicinal Treatmefa of Disease of Verne. J. G. Burnett, M.D. London:
Homceopathic PuUiahmg Company.
Dress : Its Sanitary Aspect. Bemazd Both, M J). London : J. ft A.
Chnrchill.
Materia Mediea Pura, Hahnemann. YoL 1. TT^>i«A7wiMfi« PabUahing
Company.
Second Anmtal Report of the Chester Free Bonueopathie Dispensary.
First Report of the Hastings and St. Leonards Homaopathic Dispensary.
The Chemist and Druggist. London.
The Monthly Magazine of Pharmacy. London.
The Students^ Journal. London.
Homaopathic World. London.
Hahnemarmian Monthly. Philadelphia.
American Bomceopath. New York.
St. Louis Cliniccd Review. St Lotiis.
United States Medical Investigator. Chicago.
The Medical Advance. CineinoatL
Therapeutic Gazette. Koyember. Detroit.
Bulletin de la Soc. Med. Bonuxopathiqve. Patia.
L'Homaopathie Militante. Bmzelles.
Bibliothtque Bomaopathique. Paris.
Revue Bomctopathique. Bmzeiles.
Allgemeine Homdopathische Rundschau. Leipalo^
Allgemeine Hom3opathisc1ie Zeitung. Leipsic.
Rivista Omiopatica. Home.
El Criterio Medico. Madrid.
Papers, Dispenfaty Beporta, and Books for Beyiew to be sent to
Dr. PoPB, Lee Boad, London, S.E., or to Dr. D. Dtcb Bbown, 29, Seymour
Street, Portman Square, W. AdTertisements and Business Commnni-
4sationfi to le sent to Messrs. E. Gould & Sck, 69, Moorgate Street, E.G.
E&ST3«!^ SOUTH AUSTRALU. 65
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW-
HOM(EOPATHY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA.
rnsBE is a strong bond of sympathy between the old
eonntry and her colonies, and it is always a pleasure to ns
here to learn of the welfare ef oar brethren in distant lands,
who ne^er cease to speak of the British Islands as their
''home." The characteristics of the British natnre are
strong in the new commnnities, as the existence of the
sympathy between them and the old wonld testify ; but yet
there are wide differences at the same time. Socially, they
lie half way between ns and America. Freed from many of
the restraints and crusted prejudices that lie in the way
of progress at home^ they have not yet attained to the
jaunty open-mindedness of our American cousins, who like
to judge of men and things by what they look upon as their
merits, without consulting " Mrs. Grundy," or regarding
eonyentionalities.
We haye had lying before us for some time a bundle of
papers and letters from South Australia, and now proceed
to give our readers, what lack of opportunity has preyented
US from giiing hitherto, a glimpse of the position of
homoBopathy in that colony.
Ho. 3, Vol. S5. r
66 SOUTH AUSTBAIU. "?^^!%!?J?J^
BevJew,fitb. 1,1081.
Adelaide, its seaport and capital, is a flonrishing town of
some 80,000 inhabitants. It possesses a general hospital,
with 860 beds ; and a children's hospital, which is also a
training institution for nurses, containing 60 beds. The
general hospital is entirely in the hands of allopaths, though
one of our colleagues, the Hon. Db. Allan Campbell, is
on its board of management, and works in that capacity in
perfect accord with half a dozen allopathic confreres. The
name of that gentleman will not be unfamiliar to our readers,
it having been our pleasure to mention on a former occasion
his elevation to the Upper House of the South Australian
Legislature, and also his connection with the establishment
of the Children's Hospital. Of that excellent institution he
may be said to be the father. But for his untiring energy
and devotion, it is not too much to say that the wish for
it, which was expressed to him before he set to work to
procure it, would have remained a wish only, though whea
the project was once set on foot, he was ably supported by
many noble helpers. As far as we are aware, the consti-
tution of this hospital differs from any we have heard of in
British dominions. In accordance therewith, the medical
men are elected by the subscribers ''irrespective of their
views of any particular system of medicine.'' At present,
of the six members of the staff, three are homcBopaths, and
three are allopaths, their patients being mixed up and down
in the four wards, and the members of the staff consulting
with one another inside and outside the hospital. This ia
certainly a great achievement, and reveals to us possibilities
of professional forbearance we had not suspected, and does
infinite credit to the wise foresight and large-heartedness
of Db. Campbell. It may be, some may think this a sign
of weakness on his part, and not of liberal-mindedness, but
not so we. There are more ways than one of pushing
homcBopathy. If it can be done by toning down the bitter
att^TSiI* 80DTH AUSTBALU. 67
animosity that ezista in profesaional jninds» on both sidoB^
ao mueh the better for homoeopathy and the scienoe of
medieine generally. XJnfortonatelyy the world in this
lespeot is not composed of Adelaides, nor the medical pro-
ftssion of sneh as those who form the staflf of the Adelaide
Children's Hospital.
A leading feature in the condacting of this institution is
the training of nnrses and the courses of lectures deliYcred
to the probationers and others interested in the work by
members of the staff. Dr. Campbell gaye the introductory
lecture of the course, and was followed by one of the allo-
pathic members. Dr. MAOABsy, who occupies a high
position as a professional man in the colony, is the other
homcaopath who assists in this work. The lectures are
well reported in the South Australian Register^ and are of
a yeiy high order of merit, so that it is easy to understand
the great degree of popularity they haye attained. In
addition to these lectures, our inde&tigable colleague has
deliyered other courses of lectures to popular audiences,
giying most useful and necessary instruction in the
elements of physiology, and occupying much the same
ground as the St. John's Ambulance Association's lectures
do in this country. After speaking of the lectures de-
liyered at the Training College by Dr. Campbell, the
Sou£h Australian Register says : —
^' At the recent meeting of the subscribers to the Children's
Hospital prominent attention was drawn to the &ct that hare also
Br. Campbell bad payed the way for other workers. The thirty
lectures he has deliyered constitute what the Chief Justice well
termed ' a magnificent contribution ' to the promotion of two of
the chief objects of the institution — ^ihe training of nurses and
the diffusion of information upon matters affecting the manage-
ment and health of children — and others may fairly be expected
(o enter into his labours. In another direction Dr. Magarey bat
F— a
68 SOOTH AUSTRALIA. "?2SL"S5!T^'
Beviefw, Feb. 1, 1881.
been doing good service for the pnbfic. His investigations into
the snbject of infant mortality have been most thorough, and his
dedactiojiB therefrom, although not unanswerable, are fall of
interest for the stadent of the most extraordinary and nnsatisfac*
tozy feature in the vital statistics of South Australia as compared
with those of the other colonies of Australasia. The f&cts he collates
and the conclusions at which he arrives are, however, too important
to be dismissed in a few sentences. Our only object in referring
to his lecture here is to call attention to his researches, and to the
freedom with which he states his opinions and unreservedly gives
medical advice to parents, as affording another illustration of the
ready and disinterested way in which professional men are
communicating their knowledge for the promotion of sanitary
science, and for the benefit of the community at large."
The annual general meeting of the committee of the
Children's Hospital, alluded to in the above quotation, was
held in the institution on Monday afternoon, June 28th
last, His Honour the Chief Justice presiding. We are
sure our readers will be interested in the report read by
the chairman, and also in a part of the subsequent
proceedings.
'< The Chaibican then gave the annual report of the Board,
and stated that the late Lady Superintendent's engagement
having terminated on March 25th last, in the meantime several
ladies of the Committee kindly volunteered to take charge of the
Institution. The Board advertised for a suitable matron, referring
the matter to the House Committee ; and after considering the
merits of the applicants, the Board adopted the recommendation
of the House Committee, and appointed Miss Alice Willmott, of
Paramatta, as the best candidate for the positions of matron and
trained nmrse. She had entered upon her duties on May 7th last,
and she had the entire confidence of the Board and of the House
Committee. In consequence of increasing clerical work, and of
the necessity for active efforts on behalf of the Institution which
the Honorary Secretary was unable to undertake, the Board
t^SSITS^ SOUTH AOSTBALIA. 69
had fish it necessary io engage a paid Secretary, and had appointed
Mr. Beed to that position, and he commenced daties on April
19th last. The Institation was greatly indebted to the nntiring
efiorts of Mr. A* T. Magarey while acting as Honoraxy Secretary.
He was sore a paid Secretary could not have done more in
behalf of the Hospital than Mr. Magarey had accomplished.
(Hear, hear). The works in the garden were still being proceeded
with. The lawn and terraces were to be sown with conch and
bnfUo grasses, and trees were to be planted around it. The
appearance of the place would be greatly improved when these
works were completed. Since the last general meeting the Hon.
Dr. Campbell had dehvered a series of some thirty lectures on
nursing and practical physiology to probationers and to the public.
These lectures terminated on the 10th inst. This short statement
recorded most valuable services rendered on behalf of the Insti-
tution by Dr. Campbell, especially in the direction of practical
nnndng, which was regarded as being so important an aim in the
establishment of the Children's Hospital. These lectures not only
represented hard work, but the appreciation of the work was
shown by the large and regular attendances when the lectures
were delivered; yet, although it mighl have been a labour of love,
the preparation of the lectures indicated a large amount of toil
and care. (Hear, hear). The Committee would do well to
aoange for the continuance of another series of lectures on this
sulgect. Although th^ could not ask Dr. Campbell to deliver
another series, still he hoped gome action would be taken in this
direction. At the reconmiendation of the House Committee the
Board obtained estimates for an additional bedroom for the night
nurse, and that room was now in the course of erection at a cost
of jg78. Considerable inconvenience had been caused because
of the necessity of having to keep the children in the two northern
wards, so as not to disturb the night nurse in her rest during the
daytime, and therefore this room had been erected. In con-
se^pience of serious defects in the system of drainage, the Board
appointed a sub-committee on the subject, and a large cistern had
been constructed, with a force-pump attached. It is felt that
70 SOUTH AUSnAUA. jbBwmw.T^utm.
thk wffl iwBfldy ihe dgfedg comphhwd or. Ltttoty tbe Hospital
IumI been jiroiiittMl by Dr. Oimplwll witii £>iir wall map
iBiuiraftiooa of oatonl biatoty, rallied ai £8, and witli pidorea
aadfliaiiuiialedteKlBtotlietaliieof ^. The fDDoiriiig donaftioin
liadalao been made: — A load of firewood from Mr.Wm. Sotteriaiid ;
a beaotiful Ametieaii otgaa, vahie JM, lliroiii^ the ezertiona of
ICaa Stodwy ; a fine mnaieal box from Mr. Pei^ Green ; a
cUd'a patent awing fimn Mr. George lUBipe ; and booka for
mffaea to tbe Tahie of £4 fe. thioo^ Dr. Gampbell. In con-
dvkm, without wialiing to eoter upon any eantroTeraial matter,
hend^t be penoutted to obserre tiiat be was aonryto see a
atateaunt in a letter on the subject of tiie Hoepitd Sonday eoHee-
tions. He was aonyto see a statement hinting that the Children's
Hoqntal was not yet in good walking <Hder. He was qidte
satisfied that that statement, which was made in a letter poMidied
by ffis Lordship the Bishop of Adelaide, coold not haye been
made firom an inspection of the bnflding, because he was sure
fliere was not one who conld go OTer the wards and watch the
working of the Hospital without aniTing at a precisely opposite
eondasion to that expressed in the letter. They would be very
f^ to receive suggestions firom His Lordship or any other friend
of the institotion for the purpose of improving the working of tiie
Hospital in any degree ; but he most emphatically protested to a
statonent, which was loosed to the fiictB of the case, suggesting
that the Hospital was not in working order, ffis Lordship must
have been misinftmned on this matter. The discipline was most
perfect under the management of Miss Willmott, who, as he
had stated, had the entire confidence of the Board. The pro-
bationers were working [most enthusiastically in behalf of the
institution, and the report in respect to the patients showed that
they had greatiy benefited by their treatment. He was sure also
that the ladies who had attended the course of lectures indicated
in their regular attendance that the Hospital had not only been
successful in its primary object, but successful in the scarcely less
important object of giving instruction in the work of practical
nursing. The following was a record of the number of cases
SlStS^FSTtt?** SOUTH AU8T1ULIA. 71
treated: — * Sineethd last geaeral meeting, on Mar^ 4, 1,878
eases treated at the Outdoor Dispensaiy ; indoor patients at the
Hoepital — ^reeeired from Mareh 4 to June 28, 82 ; discharged
86 ; died, 1 ; in the wards on June 28, 19/ The Board had felt
tiie urgent neeescdty of obtaining an increased number of annual
subscribers. Circular letters are now being issued by the
Secretary to those who were not on the subscription list, and the
Board earnestly trusted that each member of the Committee
wdold personally co-operate in the effort. (Hear, hear.)
"Dr. CuBTis seconded, and said he was sure misrepresentations
had been made to His Lordship the Bieluq^, and he felt certain
if Dr. Short paid a visit to the HioBpitBl his mind woald be set
at rest regarding its efioteney.
** Mr. G. W. QoTDEB said he was satisfied the Bishop had the
WBBOSD of the institution at heart — (Hear, hear) — and he must
have been under yery great misconception when he wrote the
letter.
** The Hon. Dr. Cakfbrll pointed out that with regard to the
getting-in of pati^ts into the institution, most of those sent in
were chiefly recommended by persons directiy connected with the
Hospital. The medical profession had the right of recommendii^
patients to the Hospital, but as they had not the whole sympathy
<tf the profession they did not get patients which might be sent
to them. That militated against their receiving so many children
as they had anticipated, but he felt sure as the work of the
infltitataon was earned on, and the public appreciated its merits,
they would have to provide more beds in the wards.
" Report adopted.
** The Hon. T. Kxhb moved — * That the General Committee do
eonfor upon the Hon. Dr, Campbell a hfe-govemorship, with the
privileges appertaining thereto, in recognition of the many valuable
and material services rendered by him to the institution.' He
said although the institution had been suggested by a lady, yet
Dr. Campbell was to be credited with bringing it to its present
state of perfection. He had also given very yaluable time in
delivering lectures, and had taken the question of the bazaar up
72 BOOTH AP8TEALU, ^''j^S^^SS^^St
heart and Krai, and irith the aanstance of the ladke had made it
the most saoaessfolaffyr of the kind held in SoathAiiatndia. They
were only giving him a dnereoognxtion of the aervieea theHoepital
owed him by conferring upon him this life-goremorBhip.
« Dr. GuBTis seeonded, and endorsed what Kr. King had
said.
*' Mr. G. W. GoTDSB thoni^ the motion was a step in the right
direeiion. Ever since he had seen the efforts of three or foor
persons in behalf of the Hospital he had wished to confer some
recognition of their services apon them, and he was pleased to
see that the committee proposed to bestow a life-governorship
npon Dr. Campbell, who had done so much for the HospitaL
He hoped at the next meeting to move that soma two or three
other ladies and gentleman should have a nmilar hononr con-
ferred npon them.
<< The motion was carried nnanimonsly.
'* The CHAiBiLUff said he had refrained from saying anything
on this subject until the motion had been carried, but he would
now state that no one could be honoured with an intimacy with
Dr. Campbell as he had been without becoming aware of the
great efforts he had made from the first inception of the institu-
tion, not merely as a medical officer, but as a general worker.
If anything were required to be done in any department of the
hospital, Dr. Campbell was appointed to the committee, and his
efforts in behalf of the hospital might be said to have culminated
in his magnificent contribution of thirty lectures. He had much
pleasure in asking Dr. Campbell to accept the governorship.
'' The Hon. Dr. Caicfbell said it would be ungracious for him
not to acknowledge the honour they had conferred upon him, but
he would like to make a few remarks regarding the institution.
The Hospital was looked upon, not only by the medical men, but
by outsiders, as one of the most perfect institutions of its kind.
With regard to the perfecting of it, he acknowledged he had had
something to do with it, but he had not done all. Others had
done their share, but he was still the willing servant of the insti*
tution. (Hear, hear). He could not help referring to the
g^^rySS^ BOUTH AU8TBALU. 78
delicacy of his position with regard to the institution, like those
in whom the grand aim was to do the children all the good they
could without a flag or without a creed. (Hear, hear). It was
a role that the institution should not recognise medical creed,
and that heing so, they could understand the delicacy of his
position. If he had brought forward his particular creed it
might have ii^jured the institution, and in some degree frustrated
its primary object ; but he was sure they would agree with him
that he had succeeded in his efforts, and that there was now an
institution in South Australia which had no parallel anywhere.
He was not aware of any other hospital where patients were under
free medical treatment. He hoped this would go on, and that
they would never recognise any medical creeds whatever. He
felt the honour they had conferred upon him, but above this was
his sense of pleasure when he walked through the wards and saw
the expression of thanks upon the faces of the littie ones lying
there. He did not know of anywhere except in children's
hospitals where children were under such good training, both
morally and physically. The children while in that institution
learnt nothing except what was good and true. (Applause).
*' Mrs. Oawler tendered her resignation as a member of the
Committee on account of her leaving the colony. It was decided
to ask Mrs. Gawler to allow her name to remain on the Committee
daring her absence.
*< Mrs. Tarlton and Miss Clark were appointed to the Committee.
'* The meeting then terminated."
From Dr. Campbell's comment on the report it will be
seen that, in spite of the ''happy family'* arrangement^
amongst the hospital staff there is still a good deal of the
old ill-feeling left. We should have inferred as much had
he not said what he did. Human nature^ in its narrow*
ness, is much the same all the world over^ and the marvel
is that the better part of it has gained in Adelaide the
triumph that it has. We are sure homoeopathy has not
secured the proud position it occupies in the colony^
74 FBEBUPOttlTlOir. BBtSv^STTun
withoai the exereiae of m Yisi amoant of energy, wiedomy
and eaation» profesnonnl skill and eonrtesy on the part of
onr ooHeagnes who there represent ft. To them we offer
onr warmest oongratolationSy and trnst that they may go
on to still greater achierements. Onr eolleagney Dr.
Campbell, we especially oongratnlate, and trnst that he
may long be spared to gire the world the benefit of his
marvellons energies. Wonder and en^y striTe within ns
as we contemplate a man who is at (mee a bni^ practi-
tioneTy a Member of Parliament, medical officer to one
hosfntaly on the board of another, a direetor of half-a-
dosen companies, and a sneoess genarally.
PREDISPOSITION.
By William Shakp, M.D., F.B.S.
Wb liye in the midst of the works of CK>d. We call them
natoral phenomena or appearances. They are great and
marveUoos, minnte and snbtle, fiur beyond onr compre-
hension. Onr strongest conviction, therefore, shonld be
one of ignorance ; and this conviction shonld habitnaUy
pervade onr minds and teach ns to " go softly." We have
in onr power two means of diminishing this ignorance —
thonghtfiil observation and experiment. Some phenomena
are beyond experiment, and are open to observation only ; as
those of astronomy and geology. Others are stndied mainly
by experiment ; as those of chemistry and electricity. The
rest are accessible to both observation and experiment ;
snch are medical phenomena. Bnt these are not subject to
observation and experiment in equal proportions. The
natural history of disease is learned chiefly by observation ;
we were first taught how to observe by Hippocrates, who
looked at disease, and wrote down what he saw. His
writings have been called a meditation on death. The
results of illness, first effectually taught by Morgagni, have
been diligently studied since. This study may be called a
meditation on disease. These two kinds of learning have
been carried some way towards perfection in our day. But
. 1. 18BX. PBBDI8P08ITI0N, 76
of cute they say nothing — there in needed a meditation on
eme. This belongs to experiment, and in this work small
progiesB has been made. The consciousness of onr back-
wardness in this, which is the great object of a
pnrfiBBsion of mecUcine, and the chief reason for its
existence, has been present to me for many years, and has
niged me to porsne experiments with medicines with mnch
pereeYeianee, and the resolts haye been given to my pro-
fiMMdon, from time to time, with all the care and honesty
in my power. This labour has been accompanied by
another ccmsciousness which has haunted me like a ghost ;
but about which, as it is prudent to do about ghosts, I
have hitherto kept silence. The time has come for me to
speak, and I have now to say that, in experiments with
drugs, there is an element in the problem, hitherto ap-
parently unnoticed, which cannot be overlooked without
danger of fiedling into error — ^this is the Iwi/ng body in
health and in disease, on which the experiments are made.
Why, then, has this element been so long left out of
tight ? Because we can look successfully at only one thing
at onoe. Let us take a Uttle time to think of this.
It has often been remarked that these works of God,
these natural phenomena, are wonderfally intertwined one
with another ; and that they constitute such a perfect
whole that no single phenomenon can be understood with-
out a considerable acquaintance with many others which
surround it, and which are intimately connected with it.
On the other hand, the capacities of mind which God has
given to man, though when looked at in themselves they
appear and really are grandly large, when viewed relatively
to the extent and cotnplexity of the woi*ks of creation, are so
narrow that unless we are content to study one thing at a
time, we are hopelessly lost in our vast surroundings.
l/Hiile, therefore, we are ardently desiring to view the
panorama of nature so as to see and admire its beauty and
wisdom, we are constrained by the limits of our mind's
power, first to attempt inspections of small individual
parts ; until, by examining a succession of these, and by
putting together the ideas which we have slowly acquired
in this manner, the horizon spread out before us becomes
more and more extended. This mental condition is now
recognised ; for the first persistent assertion of it we are
indebted to Lord Bacon ; and it has been acted upon with
more or less intelligence since his time. The old Greek
76 PBBDISPOBITION. "^'"SS???^
Beriew, Feb. 1,1881.
philosophers would have been greatly astonished at the
annonncement of this truths so opposed to their high
thoughts of grasping the universal first, and then descend-
ing to particalars.
It is a great privilege to us to have been made acquainted
with this state of things ; but it reveals to us a serious
disadvantage with which it is unavoidably accompanied —
the knowledge we thus acquire of a single phenomenon,
from the very manner in which we acquire it, is necessarily
imperfect; for, in order to learn something definite
respecting it, we are compelled to neglect, for the time, its
connections with other phenomena, though these may be
naturally inseparable from it. Notwithstanding this great
disadvantage, this now seems to be the only way of learn-
ing anything of natural phenomena which is worth our
knowing.
These thoughts deserve thinking again. Man's mind
has great power, but his power is limited ; and, perhaps,
nothing is a more convincing proof of this limitation than
the fact that the mind, like the eye, can look at only one
side of a subject at a time. As ihe mechanical sloll of
men's hands is limited, and hence the necessity for the
endless division of labour in all mechanical employments ;
so the capacity of their minds is restricted to the contem-
Elation of fragments only of God's works at once, and
ence the necessity for the artificial divisions of science, so
as to form studies for many minds in these difierent
departments ; and even in the narrowest subdivisions of
these, parts only of each of them can be studied at one
time. So it is evident that all our knowledges are, at the
best, imperfect and partial, and such thoughts should keep
us humble and modest. At the same time, every addi-
tional item of knowledge diminishes this imperfection,
and renders less partial what we knew before, and such
thoughts should encourage us to activity and perseverance.
Bemembering how Uttle we can see at once we must be
content to creep on, not caring to look on either side ; and
remembering that every new fact is a stone added to the
temple of knowledge, we must go on working like those
tiny creatures who have toiled on from the ocean's bottom
till they have raised above its surface islands of coral very
beautiful to look at.
These considerations will help to explain and justify the
.course pursued in the investigation of drugs to which it
SSS^ISTS!?*^ predisposition. 77
Baviair, Feb. 1, 1881.
has been my happiness to invite the attention of my
fellow-labonrers in the work of healing the sick. All along
it will have been noticed that the action of drags npon the
Hying body has been studied as if living bodies were
uniform and stable ; whereas everyone knows that the con-
trary is the existing condition. There are not two bodies
exaoily aUke^ nor one which is not subject to incessant
changes — changes arising out of its own internal working,
and changes dependent, as the colours of the chamelion are
said to be, upon its varying surroundings.
Those who have patiently accompanied me in this
enquiry into the action of drugs, have for a long time been
content to look at this action with eyes like the eyes of
owls, which see in the dark, and which are set to look
only straight forward. But for a drug to act there must be
a living body in which the action can take place ; and the
time is at length come — I feared it would not come to me —
when we may turn our eyes to this living body, and hope
to learn some knowledge of value to tiie sick. While
undertaking this, we may do more than look at the body
as acted upon by drugs ; we may notice how it is
affected by all the exciting causes of disease, of which drugs
are one. This Essay, then, will be devoted to what is
called Prediapontian, but with special reference to predis-
position to the action of drugs;
What is meant by predisposition ? That condition of
the body which makes it possible for any of the exciting
eauses of disease so to act that by the conjunction of the
two caoses, disease is produced. Predisposition and pre»
disposing cause being taken as synonymous. Predisposi-
tion is a subject often referred to in books on medicine^
but it has not yet been investigated as it deserves. Neither
can I hope to accomplish the task ; but the thoughts I am
able to express shall be gathered up into nine bundles.
The words predisposition, susceptibility, sensitivenesSi
tendency, aptitude, will be used synonymously.
I. — lAfe.
All the exciting causes of disease have to do with life, so
also have all the predisposing causes. There is neither
power of excitement in external causes, nor predisposition
or sensitiveness in the body, without life. This is a
'* general fact " which will be accepted without contention.
78 PBEDI8P081TI0N, '^ggS^^^ffygg!
On dead organs, however perfect, these causes, whether
predisposing or exciting, have no action. It will be
remembered that mechanical and chemical actions are not
now under our consideration. As to the galvanic action
which takes place soon after apparent death, it is evident
that in the organs acted upon, Ufe is not yet quite extinct.
My courteous readers may also be reminded that I agree
with Sir Thomas Watson in rejecting the term '' proximate
causes." This expression has too strong a taint of meta-
physical subtlety for the plain sense and practical utility
aimed at in these tracts.
We are now studying predisposition, and seeking
specially for the causes of its variableness, in reference to
diseases and to the action of drugs. Life is essential to
the existence of predisposition, and one of the causes of its
variableness is the absence of uniformity in life. The life
of one man differs greatly in its energy— its vitality — ^from
that of another man ; the life of a woman differs &om the
life of a man ; the life of a child differs from both.
Nay : the life of each organ of the body is its own life — ^has
its own character— and in this it differs not only from the
life of other organs in the same body, but also from the
life of the corresponding organ in other bodies. All these
differences have an effect upon predisposition, and require
to be taken account of by the physician. What life is, or
rather what it is not, has been discussed in Essay XX.
All this is true ; life is necessary to predisposition, and
yet it is not true to say that drugs, along with other
exciting causes, act upon life. ''Vitalism," as every
medical man Imows, has been one of the prevailing
medical theories. It has been earnestly advocated by Stahl
and other eminent men. It was adopted by Hahnemann in
its purity. According to him, life is a dynamism ; the causes
of disease are a dynamism, which, acting upon life, deranges
its condition ; drugs are a dynamism, which, acting upon
this deranged condition of life, restores it to its natural
condition, that is, to health. What dynamism is, beyond ** a
power," no one knows. From these vague premisses is
drawn the conclusion that infinitesimal doses of drugs are
efficacious remedies. But when there is an error in the
premisses there is commonly a fallacy in the conclusion ; so
that, should the conclusion be true, its truth must be
proved in some other way. These exciting causes do not
act upon life, but upon organised matter which is Uving.
Life and organisation must be combined ; and it is npon
this combination, which the old writers would cau a
terdum quid, that dmgs and other causes of disease pro-
duce their effects. It is in this combination that predis-
position exists. Dynamism and dynamic, of the nature
of whioh we know nothing, are words which I prefer not to
use ; as used by Hahnemann they are erroneous ; this may
be dearly seen from what has just been said. Before leading
this topic, let me anticipate a quibble. It is said '^ drugs
act upon protoplasm/' and it is the fashion to speak of
protoplasm as an unorganised pulp, and of organised
matter as dead. Be it so ; then the tertium quid is life
and unorganised pulp. But let it be remembered that this
pulp, whether organised or not, is material — is matter and
and not spirit — and that life must be joined with it, or
Sredisposition cannot exist. That the organisation pro-
need by protoplasm is lifeless matter is simply an
assumption ; it has not been proved to be a &ct.
n. — Idiosyncrasy.
Peculiarity of individuals. It has been customary to
attribute this peculiarity to a few persons only. It is here
taken to apply without exception to every individual. Each
person is a '' material ens " in reference to the external or
exciting causes of disease, and consequently in reference to
the action of drugs. It has been said that '' face answers
to face,** and with truth ; but this is not inconsistent with
another truth, that each face has its own distinguishing
features. So is it of the susceptibility to the existing
causes of disease (and drugs are among these) ; each person
has an idiosyncrasy of his own, which must be understood
and taken account of, both in experiments in health and in
prescribing in sickness, if we would discover facts in the
former, and be successfol in the latter.
Personal peculiarities are countless in number and end-
less in shades of difference. Some of them are of little
importance to the physician ; others are of the highest
value. There are peculiarities of individuals in colour ;
besides the white, black, and copper coloured races of men,
we have here and there a rufus, an albino, and a tawny ;
we have also giants and dwarfs ; we have a longahanks, a
crookshanks, a brasenose; and we have hare-brained,
choleric, and lion-hearted men ; but the medical adriser
cannot learn much which will be useful to his patient from
80 PBEBMPOSITION. 'SSSt.^FSr?!^!
saeh peculiarities as these. More instmetiTe are those
which helong to tempeiameDt, and this is the strict meaning
of the woid idiosyncrasy; snch as the sangnine, the
neiTons, the phlegmatic, die bilioiis, the melancholic, the
lymphatic. These differences cannot be passed OTer by the
physician without n^lecting some portion of his duty to
his patient.
It has been remarked that indiridnal pecoliarities are
numberless, all that can be done, therefore, is to giye
examples sufficient to make the meaning of the word
idiosyncragy distinctly intelligible. The following will
senre: —
With regard to food. li is weU known that the
pecnliarities of people in the matter of food are many and
great. Some can digest readily what will even kill oUiers.
Many enjoy mushrooms, two or three would kill me. But
short of being killed, many persons suffer considerably
from food whidi agrees perfectly with others. Shell-fish is
wholesome food for many, but not for all; one of my
relatiyes could not take the smallest quantity without baring
a fit of asthma ; another will be coTered with an eruption
by cTen a few shrimps. An eruption is not an uncommon
effect of shell-fish. No meat agrees with me better than
pork, and in this I rejoice in Earing Hippocrates on my
side ; but to many it is a forbidden food. When the late
Mr. White, of Westminster, was asked to risit a patient in
the eyening, his first question was, have you been eating
pork ? But pork is solid, a leg will weigh much more than
a leg of mutton of equal size ; and pork is savoury, and
people are apt to eat more of it than they are aware of, and
this is often the reason why it disagrees. Eggs are whole-
some food for many, but some cannot take them with
impunity. Even nulk does not agree with all. And so,
if attention is given to the variations among a number of
persons in respect to food, it will be found that to each person
belongs some singularity with which the physician should
make himself acquainted. Before leaving the subject of
food let me add two practical remarks. (1) It is possible to
cultivate these peculiarities until the stomach is trained to
reject everything. I have met with sensible people who
oould eat nothing but mutton chops. I was requested to
visit a lady in Wales who was living upon *^ white of
chicken ; " and another in Rutlandshire who was trying to
live, but did not succeed, upon two teaspoonfuls of asses'
JS^MTngf!^ PBBDISPOSITION, 81
milk in two ieaspoonfols of water fonr times a day. (2) It
is quite possible and highly desirable to conquer the fancies
of children about food. This, I think, should be done by a
Tery gradual process of gentle compulsion ; for instance
with respect to eating the fat of meat. It has been an
unhappy fashion of late to indulge children in their dislike
of fat. This has led to the waste of much wholesome and
necessary food, and so has encouraged other wasteful habits,
and has deprived the body of some materials essential to
healthy life; this is followed by emaciation and debility
for which a very disagreeable remedy — the oil of the liver of
fishes — has had to be largely given.
With regard to air and exercUt. It would be tedious to
dwell upon such peculiarities as these, but they exist, and
must be noticed by the physician. They are very obvious
to any one who has not lost the power of observation which
he had in childhood, and who will exercise it. He will see
how some flourish in the house, and how many more
flourish out of doors ; how some can walk, and how others
can ride ; how some can travel in a carriage or in a ship,
and how others are sick in either one or the other, or both.
With regard to the common cwm€9 of disease. From
time to time it happens that many persons are attacked
with influenza ; or with cholera ; or with fever ; or with
one of the exanthemata ; and this outbreak of sickness is
called an epidemic. But how many happily escape ! When
a child, I had measles ; when at Westminster School,
whooping-cough, by which five months were occupied ; but
during sixty years of medical life, and of frequent exposure
to fierce epidemics of all kinds except the plague, I have
been mercifully preserved from them all — ^the aptitude, the
predisposing cause, being absent.
Again, there are particular places in which certain
diseases are more or less constantly present ; these ail-
ments are caUed endemics ; such as ague ; Boman fever ;
the goitre of the valleys of Switzerland ; the ozoena of the
west coast of Africa ; all these show varieties of predisposi-
tion in the persons exposed to them. And in solitary ill-
nesses, which are called sporadic^ how many are the differ-
ences in the effects produced on different persons by the
same cause ! Exposure to cold or to rain will send one to
bed vnth bronchitis ; another with rheumatism ; another
with a sore throat ; another with a bad stomach ; another
Ko. 2, Yd. 25. o
82 PREDISPOSITION, *%S!2L^^S2°WSS"
Beriew, Feb. 1» IBU.
with inflamed eyes ; another with face ache ; another and
another \i/ith something else. Here the exeiting cause is
the same ; the different effects are caused by difference in
predisposition.
With regard to drugs. Susceptibility to the action of
drugs varies in two ways : — firsti with respect to aU drugs ;
and second, with respect to partictdar drugs. The action
of drugs in the living body is very wonderful ; we have had
many opportunities of seeing this, during our examination
of them in the previous Essays. The variations in this
action on different persons are scarcely less wonderful.
Some persons are sensitive to the smallest doses of all
drugs ; others are not sensitive even to large doses, not
actually poisonous. I have had patients, e.^., in one family
two sisters, in another the husband and wife, strikingly
contrasted in this manner. Some persons who respond in
the usual way to the action of drugs generally, are intolerant
of one or two, even in very small doses ; about thirty-seven
years ago, a patient, a middle-aged lady, very nearly died
from a furious salivation brought on by two grains of
calomel. Others who respond to the majority, are so
tolerant of one or two that no effects are produced by them ;
some babies can digest any amount of castor oil. The sus-
ceptibility to the action of drugs is special to each organ.
The brain quickly notices the presence of opium or bella-
donna, but pays little regard to the presence of nva vomica,
though the continuation of the cerebral substance in the
spinsd cord is, as all know, so powerfully affected by it.
Arsenic applied to any absorbing surface, is immediately
recognised by the stomach, the small intestines, and the
rectum, while the colon, the intermediate intestine, suffers
it to pass unnoticed. Each of these facts — ^the action and
the non-action — ^is as wonderful as the other ; the cause of
both has hitherto been hidden from us ; but they are facts
of the highest value to us in the treatment of the sick.
They are, doubtless, under the guidance of laws, the
knowledge of which would be very precious to us. With
reference to our present subject we have to remember that
this susceptibility varies in different individuals ; so that,
in proving a drug in health, we are not to be surprised nor
disconcerted if, in different provers, contradictions are met
with ; nor if, in prescribing for the sick, surprises and dis-
appointments await us.
iS^SS:rX^ P&EDIBPOSITION. 83
lEL — Influence of Mind.
There are libraries of books on psychology, metaphysics,
and Iq^e. Some of these I have read with pleasure,
others with weariness. The volumes I have enjoyed most
are those of Sir William Hamilton. But it seems to me,
that, after all, Van Swieten comes nearest the truth when
he says : '^ The mind thinks, and this is all that we know
about the mind/' Certainly, we know nothing of its nature
or essence. This, like the '' nature of angels," is far above
out of our sight. Of the thinking of the mind, however,
we may learn something by careful observation of our own
and other people's minds ; and among the particulars with
which we may in this way become acquainted, are the
influenoes which the mind can exert over the condition and
operations of the different organs of the body. The faculty
of imagination, or the mind occupied in imagining, has
great power over the body. How it can quicken the heart's
beats, redden or pale the cheeks, hurry the breathing, bathe
the skin in perspiration, disturb the stomach, and, indeed,
idKoct every organ of the body ! The will has not less
power. How it can keep tbe limbs working in spite of
fifctigne ! How it can determine that the body shall bear pain !
We have many examples of another kind, of the mind's
powef overthebody. Wehaveawoefuloneinhypochondriacs,
in whom an enfeebled or disordered mind ruins what might
otherwise be a healthy body. Again, Hahnemann gives a
minute account of a large number (many hundreds) of
symptoms produced during his provings of the magnet. I
think it is shown clearly in Essay YI., that these were pro-
duced by the imagination of the persons experimented upon.
The experiments with mesmerism ; with the od or odylic
force ; and some of those with drugs ; may, to a large
extent, be safely attributed to the same powerful agency.
But men's minds differ greatly ; some are imaginative,
and some are practical ; some are poetical, and some are
musical ; some are mathematical, and some are fond of art ;
ndnds make tbeir possessors become some orators, some
judges, some statesmen, and some philosophers. And of
each of these there are many varieties. Minds differ in
strength and power ; these differences admit of measure-
ment and comparison. Minds differ also in taste; and
taste does not admit either of a scale of measurement, or
of a line of argument. Some minds take pleasure in
mystery ; some in novelty ; some in speculation ; some in
0—3
84 A EECOED. "SSSl"Sr?P?S5»
Beviow, Feb. 1, 1881.
matters of fact. Many value facts only for the sake of
theories ; many value them for the use which may be made
of them ; a few value tHem for their own sakes. It follows
that the works of genius — even of Shakespeare's — cannot
be understood and appreciated by all. From this we may
learn to admire the love and condescension of God in em-
ploying such a variety of human instruments while giving
OS, during fifteen hundred years, a revelation of Himself.
The influences of the mind upon the body, and especially
the endless varieties of them here hinted at, have always
been a perplexing difficulty in the study of the action of
drugs. This difficulty compelled me to make my first
experiments with small doses unknown to the patients.
The responsibility was not theirs but mine; and the
experiments, which without this precaution would have
been doubtful and untrustworthy, were satisfactory and
Buocessful.
This thinking power, God's great gift, influences — acts
upon with a directive or impulsive force — every living body,
and every organ in that living body, and in every possible
degree and manner. If the features of a man's face identify
him, and distinguish him from all other men, the way in
which his mind acts upon his body, could we see it as
easily, would characterise him still more. Peculiarity in
this respect is personal to the uttermost. In experimenting
with drugs no truthful results can be obtained unless this
mental element is studied and allowed for. In my experi-
ments with small doses this element was not forgotten.
Again it has to be noted that were the laws which govern
these phenomena known, such knowledge would be an
amazing gain. We are ignorant of them all.
{To he concluded in our next number,)
A RECORD OF TWENTY CASES TREATED ON
THE PRINCIPLE OP HAHNEMANN'S LAW
OF SIMILARS.
By John H. Clarke, M.D.
^Continued from page 84.^
Case VI.
Mal-nutrition. — Lycopodium 6.
This case offers some points for comparison with Case Y.
There was pain in the right hypoohondrium, and constipa-
Boinew, Eab. 1, Iffil.
A B&OOEB. d5
tioDy but there was besides much flatulence, and a gravelly
sediment in the nrine. All these symptoms are prominent
in the provings of lyeopodium, and were amply sufficient
to indicate the remedy ; and the occurrence of all combined
distinguished the case from those requiring ferrum on the
one hand, and those requiring nux vomica on the other*
May 6, 1879. £. S. 10. Fair, deUcate-looking. Child
of missionaries. Was bom in China. Has been in this
country five years.
Soon after coming from China she had rheumatic fever.
For some months past she has been failing in health, and
the lady under whose care she is at presenti fearing she
was consumptive, sought medical advice.
For months she has complained of a sharp pain in the
right hypochondrium, coining regularly every month.
Her appetite varies, she constantly craves for something.
The bowels are constipated. She has much flatulence.
There is a gravelly sediment in the urine.
She has never suffered from worms. She has no cough.
Examination of chest. There is a systolic bruit heard
in precordia, loudest in the pulmonary area. There is no
dyspnosa.
I gave her two powders of sac. ladis, each containing
tinct. lycopod, 6, gtt. viii. One to be dissolved in a tumbler
three parts full of water, a dessert spoonful to be taken
four times a day. The second to be dissolved and taken in
the same way when that was finished.
May 17. I received a letter from her guardian, from
which I quote the following : '' I am happy to tell you that
your little patient is wonderfully better. The pain in the
side is quite gone. Her appetite has returned, and she is
quite bright and full of life again. None of the other
unpleasant symptoms have returned."
I did not hear of her again until the following August,
up to which time she remained very well. Then she had
a return of her ailment, very simila^ to the last, which was
quickly relieved by the same means.
Cask VII.
Spasmodic Asthma. — Nux vomica 1.
Amonp the symptoms that appear in the provings of
nux vomica are : —
'^ Oppression of the chest."
86 A RECOBD. *^2*&"iSr?^
Beifi6W« 'Ft^>^ 1, 18B1«
'' Asthmatic constriction transversely through the chest,
when walking and ascending."
" Pain in the chest, as if it were compressed by a weight
in the open air/'
' ** Constipation."
March 8, 1859. — ^Arthnr H., 21, printer, fair, nervous-
sanguine temperament, rather under-sized, narrow-chested,
spare.
Family history. Mother living. Father died of bron-
chitis and consumption. Has a sister who suffers from
eczema of the hands.
He complains of weakness of the chest. Until lately he
has been working in a very close place, with much gas burn-
ing in it. Previously to that he had enjoyed good health.
He complains of oppression of breathing when he exerts
himself, or when the weather is at all thick.
Tongue clean. Bowels rather confined.
He has a spasmodic, involuntary twitching of the eye-
lids and orbicularis muscle every few seconds.
Examination, — Physical signs negative.
The affection of the breathing appeared to me to be
almost purely spasmodic, due to contraction of the muscular
fibres of the minute bronchia on slight irritation. Ntix
vom. 1, pil. 1, 8 h.
March 15. Breath has been decidedly better; bowels
same ; tongue same. Repeat.
March 22. Breath very much better. Can walk fast
now. He has the twitching round the eyes still, but he
does not notice it. For this I prescribed agaric. 1, pil. 1 8 h.
March 29. The breathing has been rather thick. Very
little twitching. Ntix vom. 1.
April 5. Breath better this week. Very little twitching.
Bepeat.
April 16. Chest rather stuffed. Bowels confined.
Sidph. 8, piL 1 t.d.
This was his last attendance. He has since remained
perfectly well, but the twitching of the orbicular muscles
has never wholly left him.
Case Vm.
General debility. — Nux Vomica 1.
May 10, 1879. Kate H., 23, single, shoe-finisher, sister
of above, fair, ruddy, little. Subject to eczematoua condi-
tion of the backs of the hands at times.
SSSj^JKrar A BEOORD. 87
Was pretty well ap to 14 days ago. Was then taken
with pain in the left iliac region. Since then has felt very
langoid and tired. Fainted two days ago whilst at her
work. She has mnch frontal headache.
Has had attacks of the kind before, but never so bad.
Tongae clean. Bowels confined. Appetite bad. Sleep
poor. Gatamenia regular, painfal, last time more so than
nsnal. There was much loss, it was just over at the time
she fainted.
The general state of debility with ansBmia, want of sleepi
and confined 8t*ate of the bowels suggested nux vom, to me,
and the fact that the same medicine had been of much
service to her brother, although in another sphere^ con-
firmed me in the choice.
Ntuc Vom. 1, pU. ly 8 h.
May 17. Appetite better. Has not felt so tired and
languid. Bowels the same. Has still a good deal of pain
in the left side. Bepeat.
May 24. Much better generally. Pain in side better.
Bepeat.
May 30. Much better generally. Bepeat.
She remained in good health until a few weeks ago,
when she again consulted me. She was sufifering in much
the same way. This time it was brought on by a severe
cold, and there was great depression of spirits. I again
gave her nux vomica, and she was very soon able to resume
her work, and is now almost well.
Case IX.
Emphysema of the Lungs, with periodic attacks of Spas-
modic Asthma. — Ntix Vom. 1.
The power of nux vomica to control spasm of that
minute bronchi, even in the presence of organic disease^
is well illustrated in this case, which may be compared
with Oase YH., in which the affection was simple. The
failure of aidphur and ipecac, to give permanent relief may
be due to the fact that their action is primarily on the
mucous membrane, and secondarily on the muscular fibres
of the bronchioles, whereas nux acts directly on the mus-
cular tissues.
October 29» 1878. George M., S., pale, rather fair,
slightly bloated looking, fuU-chested, sternum prominent.
88 A REOOHD. ^*^^^^^^?^
Bevxew, Feb. 1,1881
Family and social history. — Child of poor parents.
Mother has a weak chest (see next ease). She goes ont
charing. Father healthy. There are fonr others in the
family besides the patient, all girls, living and strong.
Three brothers haye died of the disease this one is suffering
from. Two sisters are also dead, one of them dying of
croup. The mother had her children in rapid succession.
History of the iUness. — ^When three months old he had
whooping cough, and his chest has never been right since.
He has always been subject to attacks of difficulty of
breathing.
The attacks come on suddenly and last three days. He
goes a fortnight without having an attack on the average —
less in winter and more than a fortnight in summer. The
attacks are worse in winter.
Tongue white. Bowels confined. Appetite fair. Per-
spires very much at night.
Examination. — ^He is pigeon-breasted. The free ribs
are drawn in at every inspiration. There is a deep sulcus
running round the chest, marking the insertion of the dia-
phragm to the ribs. Breathing largely abdominal. The
upper chest moves very little.
Loud wheezing sounds heard all over the chest. Both
sides hyper-resonant, more especially the right. Cardiac
sounds normal.
He has lately been attending the East Suffolk Hospital
as out-patient. The only thing he got there that gave him
any relief was a supply of ipecacuanha wine, of which he
took an emetic dose when the attacks came on.
In view of the chronic nature of the case, of the power
possessed by stdphur of causing a spasmodic affection of the
smaller bronchi with dyspnoea, and of causing constipation,
I prescribed — Tinct. sulph, 1, 8 h., tinct, ipecac. 1, at
night if required,
[As the attacks were worse at night and characteristic of
ipecac, symptoms, and as ipec. had given him some relief in
emetic doses, I prescribed it, in a low dilution, to be taken
if the attacks should be severe in spite of the stUph,]
October 80. Breathing much easier. Attacks not so
frequent or so severSa : had to take ipec» on one or two
occasions at night« Bowels regular. Appetite much
oetter. Bepeat*
SmWw. i?^^^Ki a becobd. 89
Bartow. Feb. 1, Ittl.
NoTomber 16. Has been keeping better bat his heart
was bad again yeterday. Tongue rather dirty at back.
Bowels co]]£ned.
I now thought nux vcm; was a more appropriate remedy
than either of the others, both for the state of the breathing
and the condition of the alimentary tract. Tinct. nux
vom. 1, 3 h.
NoTomber 19. Chest much easier. Has slept better*
Bowels regular. Bepeat.
November 22. Better generally. Bepeat.
November 25. Still improving; Bepeat.
November 28. Much bett^. Bepeat:
Attendance here ceased. I called at the house one day
in the following spring to see how he had got over the
winter. The boy himself came to the door. He seemed
as well as he could hope to be, and said he had passed the
winter, a very severe one (78-79), well, and had only had
one or two attacks which quickly passed over. The em-
physema was, of course, not changed, but the whole aspect
of the boy's life was altered for the better.
Gasb X.
General Debility, Dyspepsia, Constipation, &c.
Nux vom. 1.
February 10, 1879. — ^Mrs. M., 42, mother of last patient.
Tall, dark, spare, rather wasted. Hard-working woman, of
good fiunily history. Had her children in rapid succession.
Four years ago had twins.
History. Has been ailing some little time. Has long
been subject to a cough. For a month past has had a
cough, worse in the night and early morning, with slight
expectoration sometimes.
She complains chiefly of aching through the chest, and
pain in the left ovarian region, The pain begins with
spasm in the region of the cardiac apex. It is worse after
taking food, but does not leave her. She turns siok and
faint.
Tongue clean; bowels confined; appetite bad. She
cannot take fat, it causes a feeling of weight. She has
much flatulence. She sleeps badly ; has a feeling in the
night as if her heart would stop. She feels sleepy during
the day.
90 A BscoBD. "tss-^an^
Beriew.fM).!, lau.
She has dreadful dizzy headaches, turning her blind.
She has noises in the ears— a distant humming. She has
giddy fits in which things seem to go ronnd with her.
Hearing, R. -f^f, L. /(f. Perosseal hearing defeddye on
both sides, especially the right.
Sho has flushes and chills.
Catamenia regular. Much pain in the back of late.
No leucorrhoea. Darting pain in oyarian region, worse at
the periods.
Examination of chest — ^Heart sounds normal. Bight
apex slightly duller than left, with increased vocal resonance
and fremitus.
In this case I concluded that the lung a£fection was of
old date and not of much importance. The giddiness
noises in the head, and state of the hearing reminded me
strongly of the effects of over-dosing with aaUcylate ofsod^y
and suggested the use of that drug. But the most pro-
minent symptoms seemed to be the general debility marked
by dyspepsia, with spasmodic contraction of the stomach
and constipation. On this the greater number of the other
symptoms seemed to me to depend, and with the general
habit of the patient ntix vom, seemed the medicine most
called for. The fiAct that her boy had already received
benefit from it also made me the more ready to prescribe it,
as in the case (VllL.) above.
Nnx Vomica 1, pU 1, 8 h.
February 17. Appetite better. Bowels regular. Pain
in the chest much easier. Breath much easier. Sleep
much better. Ovarian pain much better. Noises in the
head better. She has taken cold : has a tight feeling in
the head and a good deal of discharge from the nose.
Has a cough and hoarseness. Flushes are the same.
They come over her when she gets up, and when she
thinks. She still turns faint after food. Has giddy head-
ache, feels sick with it. Bepeat.
She did not again report herself, and I did not see her
when I called at her house. She was so far recovered as
to be able to pursue her calling with tolerable comfort, and
no doubt did not think it worth while to apply for farther
medical aid.
fiofiew, 1M>. 1, 1881.
A BEOOBD. 91
Case XI,
Bight Ingainal Hernia, Spasmodic Pain, Spasm of the
Bladder. — Nva Vomica 1.
The last example of the action of nux vomica I shall cite
is in the region of the involnntary muscle of the intestines
and bladder. Gases of bronchial and stomachic spasm have
already been detailed, and the pathogenetic action of the
drag compared with the curative in these spheres, and I
may mention that I have found it no less applicable to the
same affection of voluntary muscles — e.g., cramp of the
calves. In the present case spasm of the bladder was
evinced by frequent desire to urinate. This symptom also
ooenrs in the pathogenesis of the drug. The following are
firom Allen: —
680. " Cutting colic, with qualmishness."
679. ** Sensation of weakness in abdominal ring, as if
a hernia would occur.''
774. '* Urging to urinate,"
November 10, 1879. Mrs. F„ 41. Tall, sallow, spare,
rather dark.
Family history, — Good. Parents living and well. Her
own children are all delicate.
Social history. — ^Poor. Has to work hard for her living.
Previous history. — ^Has never been strong. Has a child
seven months old, which is weaned. Has been attending
for two months at East Suffolk Hospital but has received
no benefit. They have not told her the nature of her
complaint.
History of present illness. — ^For four or five years past
has suffered from pain in right groin. Has felt weak in
this region since the birth of her three last children, but
more so since the last was bom. The confinement was
tedious. Very soon after it she noticed a knot at the seat
of the pain, the size of a walnut. The knot is not always
thrare, and she only has the pain when the knot comes.
Just before the pain comes there is urging to micturate.
She passes a large quantity of urine and it causes much
smarting. The pain makes her feel sick. It comes on
when she is at stool. She is subject to spasms. She often
comes over faint.
Tongue dirty whitish yellow. Bowels regular (she has
been taking medicine from the hospital). Catamenia
regular.
92 A BBCORD. "M?S3?a
Examination. — There is a tumour in the right groin,
above the level of Poupart's ligament, approaching the
pubes. It feels like a gland. Coughing impulse is trans-
mitted. It is replaceable by taxis.
She was ordered to get a truss, and in the meantime to
take nux vom. 1, pil. 1, quater die.
November 18. She has scarcely Iiad any pain — has not
felt sick. The lump still comes down, but not so often,
and it does not get any bigger. She has not got a truss
yet. Bowels confined. Bepeat.
In this case there occurred, what is by no means uncom*
mon, a complete removal of disagreeable symptoms by a
drug, whilst the physical condition from which they appeared
to spring, remained the same. In certain cases the physical
change follows the symptomatic, at other times it is ne-
cessary to bring it about by other means; or again, in
certain cases there may be no need to interfere, the removal
of the symptoms being practically the removal of the
disease. In this case the use of other means was indicated
and prescribed.
November 25. Lump rather painful, has not kept back
80 long. Bepeat.
In considering the cases of the poor, and their difficult
circumstances, we must always be prepared for some retro-
gression, due to the fact that when they feel a little better
ihej are sure to do a little more work, and use up their
strength as they go along. I have made no note of it in
this instance, but if my memory serves me, this was the
cause of the slight retrogression here.
November 1. Has got a truss, it keeps the tumour up.
She can get about better. Tongue white. Appetite poor.
Bowels regular. Yesterday came over faint in the evening,
has been subject to this since last confinement. Bepeat.
November 9. Decidedly better on the whole. Bepeat.
November 16. Keeping much better. The lump has
come down but there was no pain, She has a cough.
Bepeat.
This was the last time she had any occasion to attend.
Case Xn.
Bronchitic Asthma. Arsen, 3.
Compared with the cases of spasm of the minute bronchi
treated with nux vomica, and naprated above, the following
brings out one or two points of interest.
January 22, 1879. — James E., 55, labourer at foundry ;
big powerful man, dark, strongly marked features.
He oame into the dispensary wheezing badly, almost
gasping, and gave by degrees the following account : —
Has been iU a week. Had no cough to speak of before
a week ago. Never had anything of the kind before this
winter. Cough comes on injits* Cannot lie down at night.
Expectoration scanty. Gets ease when it comes up. Bones
ache. It came on first in the night.
Tongue clean ; bowels regular ; appetite bad ; sleep bad.
Bespirations 36 in the minute.
He was in great distress, and had had some difficulty in
getting to the dispensary.
I diagnosed it to be irritation of the bronchial mucous
membrane (catarrh sec) from cold, with spasm of the
bronchials. The symptoms were very like those of the
arsenic provings, and I was induced to prescribe that medi-
cine in preference to any other, niuc included, by the
evidence of inflammation as well as spasm, by the inability
to lie down at night, and the aching in the bones. Arsen.
8, pil. 1, 2h.
This was on the Wednesday, and I gave him orders to
report himself on the following Saturday.
January 25. — ^He came himself, looking very different,
and said that he was much better, could lie down at night,
but not for long at a time. Breathing easier ; cough not
80 bad ; appetite better. Repeat.
January 29. — ^Much better. Keeps improving. Bepeat.
February 12. — Called to say that he was quite well.
Case XHI.
Nervous Debility. — Arsen. 3.
This is an example of the action of the same medicine in
a different sphere.
October 19, 1878. Mrs. H., 40, a Spaniard, dark,
medium size. She does not talk English, but her husband
who is English interprets. She is very nervous.
She complains of sleeplessness, caused by a sensation of
burning heat at the stomach, rising to the top of the head.
She has been troubled in this way, more or less, for five
years.
94 A BBCOBD. "S2&^Ssf!W2?
Boview, VBb. t, tSBL
Tongue clean. Appetite bad. Does not Tomit. Bowels
regular. Catamenia regular.
It was evidently a case of low nervous power^ and as the
weakness manifested itself in symptoms like those produced
by arsenic, I selected that medicine. Arsen. 8. pil. 1,
quater die.
October 29. The painful sensation is much better.
Sleep has been better till last night. Appetite is still
poor. Bepeat.
November 8. Same as last week.
As there was no further improvement, I decided to try a
change, and principally with a view to the head trouble, I
gave belladonna 8, pil. 1, q.d.
November 28. Better. Sleeps much better. Still has
burning in the head. Bepeat.
November 80. Has not slept so well. The sensation at
the vertex has come back again, She has taken cold. I
now thought it advisable to return to the former medicine,
as the action of lei, as far as this case was concemed,
seemed exhausted. Arsen, 8, as before.
December 7. Much better. Sleeps better. Burning
pains gone. This completed the case. The patient had
no need to return. The more deeply acting remedy was
most indicated and appears to have had the chief share in
working the cure.
Case XIV.
*
Incipient Phthisis. — Phospk. 2.
I have next to report a case of bronchial catarrh with
hsBmorrhage, resulting in chronic pneumonia of the apex of
the right lung.
The lassitude, the cough, and the nature of the expec-
toration, which greatly resembled the symptoms produced
by phosphorus, determined the selection of that remedy.
I have myself seen the lungs in a state of red hepatization
in a woman poisoned by phosphorus.
July 19, 1879, Ahna C, 21, boiler-maker, fair, tall,
well-made, powerfully built, well nourished but somewhat
pale.
Family and social history, — Good.
Previous health — Good until little more than twelve
months ago, when he took a cold which has never left him
itS^Sr^^S^ A BBOORD. 95
n&n&Wf SMk It 1881.
eiDoe. A congh came on and soon he began to raise blood
with it. That ceased ; bat a month ago it began again.
Present Ulneu. — ^He is still troubled with the congh and
bloody expectoration. The blood is not frothy. It comes
np every time he coaghs, in small qnantities, '^ abont as
big as a shilling/' There is no night-sweat, bat he com-
plains of langaor and faintness. The congh is worse in
the morning ; he has no pain.
Tongoe clean. Bowels regular. Sleep good.
Examination, — Lanynx: not tender, no pain in it.
Lang : apices eqnally resonant, in both expiration is ex-
aggerated, wheezing and prolonged. Heart: sounds normal.
July 26. Feels about the same but does not get up so
mnch blood. Bepeat.
August 2. Stronger. Bepeat.
August 9. Much stronger, bleeding nearly stopped.
Bepeat.
August 16. Has taken fresh cold. Spat up a little
blood after breakfast. Bepeat.
August 23. No bleeding at all yesterday and to-day.
First time he has gone two days clear since it came on.
Bepeat.
October 1. Is keeping very much better. Has no
bleeding. He looks quite well, and says he feels well, and
equal to his work, which is hard and tiring. (He was
working all the time of treatment, only taking a day or
two's rest occasionally.)
I examined his chest again and found — a shade of dul-
ness at right apex ; inreased vocal resonance and fremitus.
From this time he left off taking medicine. He took
cold several times during the following winter and came
under my care again, with the same symptoms only not
so severe. Each time pkos. 2, and bry, 1, when the morn-
ing cough was troublesome, quickly set him right and
enabled him to keep at his work.
I advised him to seek a warm climate — Australia or
South Africa — ^where he would not be exposed to such rapid
changes in temperature, and where he would have a good
chance of living to old age.
96 NOTES OH HOBMANDY, ^'iSlSSwf^Tm^.
NOTES ON NORMANDY,
rCantinuedJ
By Dr. Mobbisson.
Ih dose proximity to Arromanehes is
Asnelles-la-Belle-Piaoe, a small bathing village,
modern^ and with excellent sands. From Arromanches to
Asnelles is a pleasant walk, at low water, bnt beware of
being canght by the rising tide. Omnibuses meet the
chief trains at Bayeox. The Guide Croaty recommends
the Hotel Bepos.
To reach onr next place, either from Arromanches or
Asnelles, it is necessary to hire a private vehicle, when a
drive of some eight miles will bring as to
CouBSKXJiiLES. — ^Now yo lovers of the delicious bivalve,
this is for you an oyster paradise. Beds of oysters border
the small harbour, and several millions are annually
despatched to less favoured localities. Woe to adven-
turous crabs that are found in an oyster-bed, for against
them the attendants declare "war to the knife." These
wQy crustaceans are as fond of edible bivalves as are the
spc^iking bipeds, and their method of obtaining these
dainties is what our Yankee cousins term *' cute." Oysters
require air, and food ; hence, at certain times of tide they
open their capacious mouths, and, like Britishers of the
'Arry type, imbibe largely. Experience soon teaches even
crabs tiiat the insertion of a claw inside the shell of a
living bivalve is a hazardous proceeding, so they coolly cover
their prey with a heap of sand. The oysters, gasping for
air, open widely, and die. A sufficient time having elapsed
for this, the crabs remove the sand, and devour their victims
at leisure.
Courseulles would be a dreary place for a lengthened
sojourn. There is no crowd, no casino, no cathedraJ. We
did not even hear a band. Two jetties protect the entrance
to its small harbour. An oyster room, or restaurant, has
been built over one of the oyster beds, so that visitors may
feast their appetites in full view of futare victims. A short
walk through the main street, past the old village church,
and to the brow of a hill, brings into view an extensive tract
of agricultural country, with the small river winding through
a fertile tract, and an old mill in the foreground. Excur-
iS^SSTS^ ^^'TBS ON NOBMANDT. 97
sions may be made to Baayille^ and the Ghateanx of Grenlly
and Fontaine-Henri, bnt CoaraeuUeB is essentially a quiet
family resort. We fonnd the Hotel des Etrangers particu-
larly comfortable.
Here is the terminus station of a branch railway from
Caen, with its banquette carriages. Englishmen usually
aijoy the noyelty of riding on the tops of the earriages,
provided the weather be fine. A sheltered comer there
proves more acceptable than inside a stuffy compartment,
and as the rate of speed about equals that of our ordinary
Great Western trains, there is no risk of being blown over.
In this way we passed the closely-adjacent stations of
Bemeres, St. Aubin, and Langrune, and arrived at
Lt7C-suB-])iEB, a village of 1,500 inhabitants, ten miles
from Caen. Here the unwashed of the great town come in
flocks, or shoals, or crowds ; and not without necessity.
Luc<sur-mer is sometimes fondly spoken of as le PeHt-
Enfer, the former inscription of a local sign-board.
Frenchmen are notoriously partial to such names as le Bon
Viable for their shops, but practically the quality ascribed
to Luc-sur-Mer is a gross libel. Perhaps this place may
ultimately deserve such a title, owing to the rapid increase
of gambling saloons in French seaside resorts. At present
it is an enticing place for bathers, with good hotels, eligible
villas, excellent sands, and a vivacious company. Tourists
wishing to inspect Caen should stay at one or other of
these seaside places, and go to and fro by rail. Close to
Luc-sur-mer is Lion-sur-mer, but as the rail branches off
at Luc-sur-mer we follow its course, and in half-an-hour
reach the historically interesting town of
Caen. — This is essentially a city of churches, of quaint,
old-fEisbioned frontages, of thrift and industry, and of dirty
habitations. Its two chief hotels, d'Angleterre and
d*Espagne, are nearly side by side in the narrow, smelly
Rue Saint Jean. The Grand Hotel de la Place-Boyale, is
in a more open situation, but visitors to any of these must
be prepared for the ordinary inconveniences of an inland
French town. Were it, however, a question of a short
sojourn or of missing an inspection of Caen, I should
certainly say. Stay, No town in Normandy is of greater
historical and architectural interest. At Bayeux, as at
Coutances, there is one grand cathedral, at Caen magnifi-
cent churches abound. Foremost stands the Church of
St. Etienne, otherwise called FAbbaye-aux-Hommes,
No. 2, Vol 25. H
98 NOTES OH NORMANDY. "^J£
, F^ 1, 1831.
fonnded by William the Gonqneror, in 1066. A marble
Blab in the centre of the choir bears this inscription : —
sepoltiuest
inWctiBsimas GnillelmiiB
conqnestor Nonnanomm dns et Anglis
xex, hnJTiflce domns conditor
qui obiit anno mbczxrii.
Beneath this slab now rests as many of the Conqueror's
bones as have escaped a double spoliation of his tomb ;
first by the Calvinists, and, in later years, by the Revolu-
tionists. But the remark has been justly made that " the
church itself is the mighty monarch's best monument."
It certainly is one of the most, if not the most, noble of
the ecclesiastical structures of Normandy.
A companion structure, historically speaking, is the
Church of the Holy Trinity, or Abbaye-aux-Dames, on the
heights of Saint Gilles. This was founded in 1066, by
Matilda, wife of William the Conqueror, and is a fine
edifice, though much inferior to St. Etienne. The choir is
screened off. An inspection of certain of the nuns at their
devotions forms one of the sights for visitors, a curtain
being drawn aside for the purpose. It is certain that
these nuns, in their neat attire, are as anxious to see
visitors as visitors arc to see them. In the centre of the
choir is the tomb of Matilda, which is also seen when the
curtain is drawn aside. Beneath the choir is a crypt, well
woi*th inspecting. The sisters of this abbey belong to the
Order of Saint Benoit, and are drawn from the highest
Norman families. Their first abbess was Cecile, daughter
of William and Matilda. We were told they never leave
the precincts of the abbey, and their pallid features bore
witness to the truth of this assertion. One of the lay
sisters conducted us past the Hotel Dieu, through the
grounds, and by a winding ascent to the top of an artificial
mound, from which there was a panoramic view of the
town. In the dormitories and elsewhere everyone seemed
well-cared for except the nuns, whose prison life is very
detrimental to health.
The ancient church of St. Gilles, close to the Abbaye-
aux-Dames, is now tottering to its fall. Were this in a
small town or village, its renovation would be imperative ;
in Caen its loss will not be seriously felt.
A building, over which a fate similar to that of St.
Gilles is impending, is that of St. Jean, in the Bue Saint
JSSiS'iSbT'JSf"' NOTES ON KORMANDY. 99
Befiew, F«b. 1, U»l.
Jean, near the Hotel d'Angleterre. Alas ! for the rayages
of time.
Unequalled in position, and magnificent in its arohi-
tectoroy with a forest of flying hnttresses, stands the
chnreh of St. Pierre. From its well-proportioned tower an
octagonal stone spire rises to a height of 242 feet. The
ext^or surpasses the interior. Sunt Begnobert, one of
the early bishops of Bayeux, commenced the first stmcture
in the 7th century, bnt the present building dates from the
13th centnry. Adjoining the choroh is the Market Place.
This is conTonient, for, even on Sundays, worshippers can
first pay their devotions and then pay their caterers, and
having refreshed the soul, can refresh the body without
loss of time. Visitors, who usually object to Sunday
trading, can condone a few purchases by remarking that
they are on foreign soil !
But, enough of the churches of Caen. There are
numerous other structures of interest, such as old and
historic houses. Unfortunately for antiquarians, these
are steadily being ''improved" out of existence or
modernised. To enumerate those remaining, however^
would be tedious. One spot of special interest is No. 148,
Rue Saint Jean, the former site of the temporary home of
Charlotte Corday, the heroine who delivered France from
the savage doings of Marat by stabbing him while he was
in his bath. Its place is now occupied by a more
pretentious domicile.
Passing through the Market, beside the church of St.
Pieire, we soon come to the Quay, with its array of
shipping, including steamers for Dives (at the mouth of
the river) and Havre. Our object, however, is the fiuis
jwomenades which border the river. Along these we
wander on and on, beneath the grateful shade, until a
steep incline indicates our return route over the hill upon
which stands the Abbaye-aux-Dames.
Caen is noted, in an Epicurean sense, for two dainties, —
tripe and mussels. The former is a regular Sunday dish
in all the hotels and restaurants; and the latter are supplied
during the months of June, July, and August. In other
cities in Normandy English visitors are regarded as gastro-
nomic barbarians, because they turn up their noses at
** tripes a la mode de Caen.'*
Of the library, museum, university, and other public
buildings, little need be said, beyond that there is much
100 NOTBS ON NORMANDY, ^"SSJSrflSTSi!
which is worthy of inspection. The same applies to the
Bnrronnding oonntry, which has the thorough home look
so characteristic of Norman-English scenery. Without,
therefore, pretending to give anything like a fall description
of this historical city — ^the nnvisited monnments of which
most ever, with the casual visitor, exceed in number those
inspected — we wend our way to the Paris-Cherbourg rail-
way station, and are soon en route for '* pastures new."
Shortly after leaving Caen we notice, to our right, some
stone quarries. These are the quarries from which most
of the celebrated Caen stone has come. The excellent
quality of this stone is proved by the present well-preserved
condition of Westminster Abbey, one of our noblest eccle-
siastical monuments.
Passing the villages of Bretteville and Andrieu, a journey
of twenty miles brings us again to Bayeux. Thence, past
Le Molay-Littry, we come to Lison, where we change
trains, and, after passing three small stations, arrive at the
ancient town of
St. Lo. — This town is prettily situated, chiefly on the
sides of a steep hill, by the river Yire. Its church of Notre
Dame is on the summit of this hill. From either of its
twin spires charming views of the town and country may
be seen, which gave me the first glimpse of anything rurally
enticing. The exterior of this cathedral is decidedly im-
posing, but its interior is uninteresting. An early Norman
chnrch, that of St. Croix, has been restored, but the Abbey
of St. Croix, founded by Charlemagne, has been destroyed.
From the railway station, which is on the opposite side of
the river to the town, the general view reminded me of
Shrewsbury, minus the ''Quarry" at the latter, though
Shrewsbury would carry ofif the palm for picturesqueness.
On the whole, the town of Saint Lo conveyed the impression
of being a respectable, sleepy old place, where the over-
worked might rest in peace and quietness. To see St. Lo
sufficiently for purposes of mere inspection, it is sufficient
to aiTive by a morning train, break the journey, and pro-
ceed by afternoon train to the next chief town,
CouTANCES. — Fortunate is the tourist whose arrange-
ments permit of only a day here, unless he can fare better
than we did at its chief hostelry, the Hotel de France.
This hotel has recently been put into general repair, for
the building is old ; but some of its inconveniences, such
as closets in dark comers, adjoining the bedrooms, and
iSriSSr^TSB?^ NOTES ON NORMANDY. lOl
devoid of water supply, have been carefully retained. In
addition^ the living was by no means suited to English
appetites, and we could touch few of the dishes which
appeared at tiie breakfast table.
The town is well placed on the summit of a hill. Two
parts which pleased us were the promenade and the public
gardens. The latter are well worth inspecting. From
them may be seen a large tract of fertile countiy, with a
portion of Coutances in the foreground, and the new Gran-
ville railway, with its embankments and bridges, winding
away into distance ; but the great feature is the grand old
cathedral — to my mind about the most imposing, exteriorly,
of any which we visited. Its two chief spires form a con<
spicaous landmark, and in clear weather are visible from
the eastern coast of Jersey. Moreover, its interior well
repays one for a careful study. Its loftiness is most im-
pressive, an effect heightened by the sombre gloom and the
associations and records of many centuries. Not less
impressive is it to see this ancient sanctuary crowded with
devout worshippers, though a bassoon accompaniment or
the weird reedy tones of an antiquated organ do not add to
the impressiveness of the service. This cathedral is
reputed to have been consecrated in the presence of Duke
WiUiam (soon to be known as William the Conqueror) in
1056, though some writers consider this hardly probable.
Another old church, that of St. Pierre, is worth seeing,
and the old houses and old-fashioned streets adjoining
should not be missed. The interior of yet another church,
that of St. Nicholas, seemed particularly well arranged;
and this church contains one of the earliest statues of the
Madonna and Child — said to be quite 600 years old.
A four and a-half hours' ride by diligence (for the rail-
way was not quite completed), through an uninteresting
section of country, brought us again to the sea-shore. We
alighted at
Granville, with a feeling of relief, conscious that the
interior towns are uniformly wanting in cleanliness and
comfort. Not that Granville is a clean place. My first
impressions were, in this respect, &vourable. Alas ! for
human expectations. One has only to wander through the
side streets, to inspect the old town, and to investigate
other than the chief hotels, to dispel this illusion.
Let us mount to the High Town. Perched upon a rocky
headland, this part dominates the whole, and may be.
102 NOTKS ON NORMANDY. ^1Sfw?»Hf1«l!
reached either bj a gradual ascent, across the bridge by the
bathing place, or by a long flight of steep stairs adjoining
the market place and harbour. Once fairly on the snnunity
and the vision has license
** Far round the horizon's oiyskal ur to skim,
And trace the dwindled edgings of its brim,"
In the distance, in very clear weather, Jersey may be dis-
tingoished; nearer at hand, the Island of Ghassey ; opposite
Chanssey, on the mainland, the Tillage of Donyille ; in the
distance the towers of Contance Cathedral ; on the land
side, a panorama of Granville ; and a short distance south,
the bathing village of St. Pair ; farther on, Mont Saint
Michel. Close at hand will be seen the Arsenal, the
Casernes for the soldiers, and the massive musty church of
Notre Dame. Passing through the centre of this part is
the Hue Notre Dame, the chief thoroughfare. Instead of
returning by this, let us wander round the northern wall,
dirty though our footway be, and inhale the direct sea
odours, even though diluted by stenches from around.
ITnclean houses ? Why, yes ; and one wonders how such
tidy-looking people, as may be frequently seen, can come
from such dirty habitations. Here, absolutely overlooking
the shore, with every facility for drainage, the odours
reminded me of my experiences in Morocco.
Beturning through the narrow gateway by which we
entered the High Town, we descend to the bathing place.
This is quite detached from the town itself, having only
the casino and a short promenade as adjuncts.' There is
the usual tripartite division for single ladies, families, and
single gentlemen, customary at French resorts of the first
order ; the sands are excellent, and the charges only for
clothing and towels, the machines being supplied by the
Corporation of the town.
In the Low Town there are several good streets, enticing
shops, and numerous hotels. Through the centre runs the
small river Bosq, which is dammed in for the washer-
women, who line its banks by the score.
The port has two basins and an outer harbour. Gran*
ville is the commercial depot for a large tract of country,
and is also a naval station.
The costumes of its women have attracted much atten*
tion, as here may be seen the capot^ a black cloak, with a
hood, the whole frequently lined with white silk ; and large
Norman caps, of snowy whiteness, are sometimes worn.
SSS'iw?^*?!^ NOTES ON NORMANDY. 103
Bsview, Feb. 1, Iffii.
Of the women themselves Michelet has said, '* they are the
most beaatifal in the world." This may be taken as a
proof that his knowledge of the human form was very
limited. I saw some very good-looking indeed, and prettily
attired; but it is the children who are really pretty. Thus,
if we take the standard of 100 for the six-year-olds, at
eighteen they would rank at seventy, at fifty their position
would be zero, and at seventy — I should rather not say.
So much for Granville. On the whole it is a place quite
worth visiting— 60 thoroughly French in its people and
manners. Stay, its people are reputed to have a tinge of
Spanish blood to account for their supposed comeliness.
The chief town between Granville and the border town
of Pontorson is
AvBAKCHES. — This is beaubifally situated on the top of
a precipitous hill, and is a favourite resort of the English,
both for residential and temporary occupancy. Over-
looking the Bay of Avranches, and with some pretty
scenery close at hand, it is a favourite with artists,
especially of the foreigner admiring typo, the artists to
whom we owe the super-laudation of districts greatly
inferior in actual beauty to the retired nooks and rocky
headlands of our ever- verdant isle.
One special bit of coast scenery — in fact, the gem of
Normandy — remains unmentioned. But Mont Saint
Michel is so closely linked with Breton life, and so easily
reached from Saint Male, that a descriptive reference can
well be deferred*
In regard to climate^ without entering into details, I
may say that the air of the coast region is dry and
invigorating, and that fine seasons are the rule and not the
exception. Even on hot, sunny days, there is a freshness
in the air which is foreign to humid climates. Insect life
revels in the summer warmth. On the cliffs near Arro-
mancbes butterflies congregate literally by thousands.
Happily, wasps seemed comparatively rare.
The general aspect of the country districts visited ia
decidedly enticing ; but the scenery has certainly been over-
rated. There is a general appearance of thrift, the small
fields beiog mostly fully tilled. Apple orchards abound,
and the prevalence of hedges, albeit untrimmed, impart a
home-like look, pleasing to both tourist and invalid.
St. Saviour*s Bead, Brixton Bise.
September, 1880.
104 tetlLEPBY. "^.^"tP^gS*
Beview, f^b. 1, IflBl.
ON COCCULUS INDICUS AND PICROTOXIN
PRODUCING AND CURING EPILEPSY .♦
By Db. Jousset.
The therapeutic truth proclaimed well-nigh a century ago
by Samuel Hahneman obtrudes itself more and more on
contemporary medicine.
Hatred and prejudice are powerless against facts ; the
experimental study of drugs and the law of similars are
being eyolved more and more from the works of our adver-
saries themselves.
The article on cocctdua indicus, published in the Diction-
naire Encyclop^iqtie des Sciences Medicales, shows that
cocc. indie, ajidpicrotoxin cause, on the one hand, in animals
convulsive movements, recurring spasmodically, quite com-
parable to epilepsy and eclampsia, and on the other hand,
cure epilepsy and eclampsia in man.
The first ideas on the action of coccvlus ind. have come
to us from the use made of it in catching fish by stupefying
them.
Fish which have eaten bait containing coccvlus are
seized with gyratory movements ; they describe circles,
diminishing in size ; then soon float motionless on the
water ; many die at length from this poisoning, and their
flesh causes illness in persons or animals who partake of it.
Experiments were made on animals (cats and dogs) by
Brunner, Orfila, and Goupil (of Nemours). These authors
are agreed in recognising that cocc. ind, produces in
animals attacks of epileptiform convulsions, coming on
spasmodically, and separated by intervals of complete
return to consciousness and voluntary movement. The
attacks are more and more violent ; the intervals shorter
and shorter ; and the animal succumbs rapidly during the
convulsion or from collapse.
Picroioxin produces very analogous efiects. Subjoined
is a resume from Orfila, Mortimer Glover, Cayrade,
Crichton Brown, and Planat of the symptoms produced on
animals by picrotoxin.
The incidents of the poisoning present three distinct
periods.
1st Period. — Dejection, restlessness, agitation, and
terror ; want of concord in action of movements ; grinding
* Translated from VArt M€dical by Dr. A. B. Kennedy, of Blaokheath, B.E.
^^Sr'ns!^ EPILEPSY. 106
Reviev, Feb. 1, U61.
the teeihy salivation, distortion of the features, general
tremor ; acceleration of pulse and respiration ; alight
elevation of temperature ; occasionally vomiting,
2nd Period. — ^In dogs, qnick movement of recoil, then
tonic spasms, first in the fore paws ; then opisthotonos.
These spasms are rapidly succeeded by clonic convulsions,
which invade the body from above downwards.
At the height of the attack the paws execute a sort of
galloping movement, which causes the dog to turn on his
axis. During this period there are foam at the mouth,
biting the tongue, cyanosis of the lips and the tongue,
involuntary emission of urine and faeces.
8rd Period. — Collapse, apparent death, decrease in the
rapidity of the respiration and circulation, and lowering of
temperature.
At the end of several minutes the animal recovers con-
sciousness, raises itself, and commences to walk ; but soon
a fit stronger than the first seizes it, and throws it to the
ground. Thus the attacks alternate with intervals of
amelioration.
If the dose of poison has been strong, and the animal is
going to succumb, the convulsive attacks become stronger
and stronger, the intervals of repose shorter and shorter,
and the animal dies asphyxiated during a convulsion, or by
syncope during collapse.
If the dog is going to recover, the attacks are at longer
intervals, and diminish in intensity, but sometimes a
partial paralysis is left behind. Some symptoms yet remain
to be noticed, which have escaped the general description,
and these are — contraction of the pupils ; congestion of the
fundus oculi; bloody stools. At the autopsy the same
lesions are formed as in persons who have died in a state
of epileptic or eclamptic disease; the muscles present a
considerable elevation of temperature, and a rapid loss of
contractility.
Following our usual custom, we pass in silence the
numerous and contradictory physiological explanations
which have been given of the action of picrotoxin.
And now, in what diseases might we prescribe cocctUus
Bud picrotoxin ? What can these convulsant poisons be
good for ? To cure epilepsy, eclampsia, tetanus, chorea,
and all convulsive diseases. Here is how Dr. Ernest
LabbS expresses himself with regard to the therapeutic
application of jpiC9'D£oa?in ; — ''It is in convulsive neuroses
108 EPILKPST. ^"SlSl
Its vis Vf fnk. 1« 18M.
above all that it shoiild be administered : epilepsy,
edampsia, chotea, tetanas. See, Already we know that
cocculus was an<aently employed in these maladies, bnt
altogether empirically. Nowadays, certain facts of experi-
mental physiology are introduced into this application,
from which the following theoretical ideas are deriyed.
Planat admits, first of all, with Brown Seqnard, that the
mednlla is the nodns epilepticas, the epileptc^nic focus
par excellence ; then recognising that pierotoxin possesses
an action, so to speak, on the mednlla oblongata, he infers
the possibility of a fayonraUe modification of the nodus
epilepticus by the active principle of cocc. indic" (See p.
828.)
Verily ! But then, surely, M. Planat is a homoeopath,
since he modifies the epileptogenic focus by a substance
equally epileptogenic. If he was an allopath he ought to
have prescribed an " epileptofugic " drug — bromide of
potassium for instance. It is true that then he would be
only using palliative medicine, whereas with picrotoxin he
is employiog a curative mediclDe. But, finally, one is
either an allopath or he is not, and according to his prin-
ciples the sick person ought not to be cured by it. Equally
homoeopathic are M. Ernest Labbe, who favours a similar
doctrine, M. Delambre, who publishes them, and all the
medical men — ^and they are already numerous — ^who apply
them clinically.
I know that you do not regard yourselves as homoeo-
paths, because you employ appreciable doses; but
Hahnemann himself, during bait' his career, employed
massive doses ; and now-a-days, even many physicians of
his school often employ massive doses. It is not the dose
which makes homoeopathy, but the experimental study of
drugs on the healthy body, and their application to the
treatment of disease according to the law of similars —
similia simiiibus curantur.
Is it necessary to seek for the physiological explanation
of the action of a drug which, though admitted today, will
perhaps, be rejected to-morrow ?
Stand firm, then, in positive' therapeutics : lake for the
base of your indications that which is at the bottom of all
hypothesis and of every physiological system — ^morbid
phenomena, the totality of symptoms, and lesions —it is
the solid and complete basis of the domain of observation ;
complcto these indications by all known experimental
tv&TSS^ HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS 107
actions of the drug in healthy men or in animals. Have
for yonr gnidanoe in these provings the formnla ** similia
iimUibus euraniur " when yon desire to cure. The formula
** contraria eantrariis,*' when you can only soothe, when
yon are reduced to palliation of a symptom, and you will be
disciples of Hahnemann ; you will then form part of that
homoBopathy, so much decried now. But console yourselyes,
yoa will be the therapeutists of the future, positive and
experim^ital, which will be of more value than despoiling
homoeopaUiSy whilst continuing to rail at them ; for, know
well, for more than sixty years have homosopathists
employed oocc. ind. in the treatment of epilepsy ; and do
not imagine that you will be able to clear yourselves of the
re]Mroach of plagiarism by the physiological explanation of
the dectiye aflSnity of drugs, or by a figure of rhetoric
about
•(The lance of Achilles "which healed
Tb» woQndB ^hioh it made."
Hahnemann and his disciples in studying the action of
cocculus on the healthy body recognised its epileptogenic
function, and did not hesitate to apply it in the treatment
of epilepsy. I will even say that cocculus is of little use
except in that form of epilepsy which comes on unex-
pectedly in the morning, when the patient suddenly leaves
the horizontal position to get up. In these cases I have
obtained success even with scandalously small doses !
HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS.*
THEIR WAITING-TIME.
Entbakce for Ont-Patients. Days, So-and-So. Hours,
Sueh-and-Such. Men, At This ; Women, At That.
This much : with a painted hand pointing emphatically
in a downward and decided direction. And as comparison
of regulations with time-pieces proved the time to be a
time, and to be an opportunity (women's time, and women's
opportunity), the grey stone stairs were descended, the grey
stone area women out-patients had to cross was crossed, an
area-door, that seemed likely, was opened, and there the
Waiting women, in their waiting-place, were seen.
* Beprinted £ram AU the Year Bound, Dec. 2oib, 1880.
108 HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS. "b^^ST^mm!
The women were many, ihe order excellent. Indeed^ all
was 80 seemly and so tranquil, there was a sensation that a
small domestic conventicle had been soddenly come upon ;
that acquaintance had been made with one of those home-
meetings of the proscribed, where a few gathered together
in the hoose of one, and the moving of the spirit was listened
for eagerly. The reason was because benches ran from side
to side of the small room, at regolar intervals ; because the
benches had backs and foot-rails, comfortably and con-
siderately (seeing that the patients were patients, and
would be sure to be weak and weary) ; because the benches
were all planted to look one way (except that inevitable
single side-row) ; because there was a text or two hung on
the walls ; because such women as were newly entering
slid themselves between the benches, and along the benches
to the end, precisely as they would to seat themselves for
worship, and precisely with the same hush and strict
propriety. Pervading the place, too, was a certain darkness
of the sort that seems to fit in (at any rate, conventionally)
with Puritanism, or other non-conformity. And this was
because this waiting-place was below the level of the street,
with its light a half-light ; that, being in a position that
would be ordinarily the position of a London kitchen, it
looked out on to paved yards, on to lime-washed walls, on
to plain plank doors, on to grim appliances and utensils,
whilst such looking out was spare and limited, implying a
somewhat difficult looking up, if a wish existed to get the
treat of undiluted sunshine, and a peep of open sky.
Furthermore, the small apartment had a stone vaulted roof;
was supported by slim pillars — ^which accounts for the
association of ideas, frilly ; requiring only the additional
fjGfcct that the general colour to be seen was drab ; that there
was nothing in the apartment to spare (barring the texts) ;
nothing to move, nothing to disarrange ; that all that was
there was orthodox, prescribed, administered, was guarded
against all chance of straying and innovation by a shape
and ruling altogether conservative.
Good. And this much sketched in, attention must be
given to the women. They were distinguished by silence,
it has been said; by placidity and composure. So apparent
was this, that though the apartment, in which there could
have been seated some fifty altogether, were there pressurci
was about three parts full, there was no more whisper, and
no more murmur, than if three parts again of these had
SSjKfrwJT'SSi?*' HOSPITAL OUT-PATIBNTB. 109
— — ^ » . I I 11 I ■ . ■ ■- 1 Ill 0
been tamed oat, and the women reduced to three or
four. Oat of them, a few sat quietly knitting, which
changed the eonventicle aspect of the place, when there
bad been time for it to be perceived ; out of them, one was
attentive to her book, which might, by the way, have brought
the eonventicle aspect back ; many of them were merely
ruminating and contemplative ; it was only a couple, or two
or three couples, who were exchanging home-chat, or world-
chat, making the low hushed whisper that was the sole
sound that prevailed. Yet, in spite of the propriety and the
impressiveness of this, as the women sat, looked at from be-
hind them, in their straight and patient rows, a whimsical
thought shot into the mind. What was there of suffering,
it was, in front of each one of those backs ? What was
there on the other side of each of those woollen garments,
of malady, of injury, of " tendency," or complaint ? Here
are the hind-seamings of a neat, tight, cloth jacket ; does it
cover a disordered liver ? Here is a looser shawl ; is it over
a fatty heart ? Then those bonnets presenting a back-view
— all "crown " and " curtain " — entirely without suggestion
or indication of the wearers visible from the front. Under
this, is it neuralgia ? under that, deafness ? under those
others, contusion, enlargement, '' nerves " ? Of course,
oould the poor women's faces, at this first introduction to
them, have been seen, this somewhat too pathological and
seemingly unsympathetic wonderment never would have
come. Pallor would have been observable in one ; over-
redness in another ; emaciation in a third ; in others, the
distortion, or the disfigurement, or the distress, that would
have been some index of the owner's unenviable eligibility
for admission, giving occupation for pity, and setting
conjecture at rest. But here there were straight rows of
boeless patients ; there were straight rows of blank backs
— stooping, some of them, or upright, or leaning for support.
There were emotionless bonnet-heads; non-elucidating trim-
mings across the napes of necks ; and there was evoked,
just for the moment, a kind of aggravation of enigma, a
sense of obstinate withholding of any knowledge or infor-
mation, that provoked queer speculation, and — ^the record
of the speculation stands.
Little harm, however, in the guessing, unavailing as it
was. In a short time the solemnity of things changed.
The women, growing used to the shy presence of each other,
forgot restraint, and getting even less like invaUds, became
110 HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS. *%!SL%!*?"?ft5*
Emiew, Feb. 1. IflU.
like womeu assembled iogefcher to rest pleftsanilyy and to
indulge in chat at interraJs, to make the pleaanie more.
They did not do this with a kind of eseape, dl at onee. It
came on gradnally, as relaxation always oomes. The low
hnsh of whisper deepened, say ; then came half-andible en«
qoiry as to the time, as to the weather, as to some similar
topic that coald be ventured part alond. More woman
entered also, who had to ask leave to pass ; other women
chafed at the suspense of the waiting, and had to distorb
others to get away. A little girl, sitting by her mother,
and complaining that her hands were cold, and she could
not *' tat," or " foot," or drop one, stop one, slip one, whip
one — or whatever was the technical mystery she was doing
her best to master — gave at last the general touch that
appealed to every nature, and proved how all were kin.
Being invited to draw near the fire, she drew near ; and
then afterwards, going away again, she was spirited up to
stray outside the door.
** Mother ! " she ran back quickly and said, ^* the outer
room is nearly full."
Commotion came firom it all round. Some women sighed ;
some tapped out their impatience with their boot-toes upon
the boarded floor; some simply folded themselves over
afresh, to settle to a long wait again. One was nerved up
to going to a house-porter she caught sight of passing, and
to asking querulously whether it was her turn.
*' I'll call you when it is," was the somewhat rough reply.
*' May as well wait till you hear."
Truly, and she did ; for was there an alternative, except
to go?
There was a woman of another character, though, bent
on looking on the inevitable waiting from a much more
cheery side. *' Oh, well," she cried, ** I told my husband
I shouldn't be in till seven ; and as he won't be wondering
where I am, I have no need to care."
Seven ! which seven was yet three hours and a half away.
But such power has hopefulness, on the utterer if not the
listener. The cheery outlook was not over yet, nor nearly.
*' You see," the woman cried, for the general enlivening
and appeasement, ''we are bound to stop our turns; for
counting the country patients, which they always take first,
because they have to catch trains, and so can't get home as
soon as we can who live near ; and counting the new patients,
which they always take next, it must be a long time before
tS!S^!^!*UiSt^ HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS. Ill
we are come to, and can't be helped. And, dear me, if
they don't see me soon " — and she was standing by now,
witii face turned, and it ooold be seen to be lighted by a
happy smile — '' I'll just send upstairs, and ask them to
make me up a bed ! "
She was no stranger to the institution ; she was proud to
let it be known, and, proudly, she proceeded.
^' Yes," ahe said, ruminatingly, and looking lovingly up
to the bore branches of a tree or two that were just visible
by turning askew, '' I was here for weeks and weeks. When
those trees were full of leaves, and when I could see the
leaves moving, and could hear the rain dropping on them,
I was so comforted ; it seemed to me just like the country*
And so, you see, I shouldn't at all mind coming here again,
if so be it came to be required."
Another incident of pleasantness from another patient
followed. One of the back-viewed women, who proved to
be a young woman, and a comely woman, and a gentle wo-
man of her own good nature, when her face was visible and
her manner could be noted, was being searched for by a
friend, a patient also, and was recognised, and was made to
look round by a quick light tap.
^' I thought I should find you I " cried the brisk new
comer, as young, and as comely, and as gentle as her friend ;
" I didn't like to go without. Are you better ? "
" A good deal," she was answered. '^ But "—surprised
— " you're not going, are you ? "
" Yes,** came the reply, with quite a little triumph,
''I've been seen, and I am off, as quickly as I can."
*• How nice for you," said the seated friend. " I'm so
glad you're so soon. For myself, I'm afraid the doctors
will go before it's my tarn ! "
The other patient smiled; both the patients smiled; they
took pleasant leave of one another ; and the one who was
left sitting was as satisfied as the one who had gone, with
not a speck of malice, envy, or the least uucharitableness,
to mar her.
They were being treated gratuitously, it maybe advanced,
as reason for their patience and docility. Yes ; but are
there not people, and many people, receiving gift-horses
constantly, who yet look the gift-hors^ in the mouth, from
sunrise till sunset, hungiy, almost, to find a defect on
which they can take hold ? The act of accepting, and the
fact of giving nothing for what is accepted, therefore cannot
112 HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTB. ^^Irf^!*?^!
pass as cause for all the order and good feeling observable.
Bat, then, can anything pass as canse, either, for the med-
ical profession, out of idl the professions, giving, at stated
hours, a large percentage of its best skill without fee or
thought of it ? Do lawyers retain so many hours a week
on which they see gratis clients ? Do artists take free
portraits, and present their pictures to the impecunious,
having days devoted to unpaid sittings ? Do singers instruct
periodically and continuously in vocalisation, and remain
unsalaried ? Do instrumentalists ? Do any ? Tet doctors
devote themselves in the manner that all these levees of
out-patients at all the hospitals show they devote them-
selves ; yet doctors do this as a custom of tibeir profession,
from which no member of it shrinks. The end of which is
that medicine has a badge of nobility possessed by no other
profession ; that medicine, if it had not too much modesty
even to have thought of itself as enjoying this uniqueness,
might very well be proud of it.
Well, similar small incidents to those that have been
already noted continue to come. The little girl, as it
happens, continues to bring the most. She reports, every
two minutes about, as to what it is o'clock ; she reports
that 80 many patients have walked straight into the other
room, that so many have been attended to, and gone out ;
she invents a very methodical plan of meeting her mother
when they have both seen their doctors, and they will be
wanting to get away.
" I shall go in to Dr. Comma, you know," she arranged,
" and you'll go in to Dr. Full -Stop. Then, when we come
out, I'll wait for you at Dr. Full-Stop's door, and if you
don't find me there, you'll come and wait at Dr. Comma's
for me. Understand ? "
It was a thing that might be understood, its difficulties
not being special. And this was smilingly indicated.
More than a smile was given after though, when the
child made her next announcement.
'' Dr. Hyphen-Star has come ! " she burst back and cried.
" Mother, Dr. Hyphen-Star ! "
When excitement ran round the whole assembly enjoy-
ably, the patients roused themselves from their yawning,
or their passiveness, or their docility, whichever was their
mode, the patients became quite refreshed. One woman,
though, made that old confession of her own obscurity by
bSSi^^ITSwT hospital out-patients, 118
th6 old mode of enquiring dreamily of the woman next her
who Dr. Hyphen-Star might be.
"Don't you know?" she was met with, surprised.
" Never heard of Dr. Hyphen-Star ? Why, he'll soon be
the leading man of any, so they say ! His priyate practice
is immense ! '*
Quite immense! seemed to be the improved, though
inaudible chorus from all, with a sort of reflected pride.
Business went on more briskly at any rate after the last
arrival, because an additional officer (no matter what his
ehances) naturally led to additional expedition. The room,
in fact, sensibly thinned before long. Into it there came
such ories from time to time, and from the roughish voice,
as " Numbers up to ten for Dr. Comma!'' as "Patients
for Dr. Full-Stop ! " as " Any other country patients ! "
Out of it went woman after woman, the familiar and the
obscure, the child, and her mother, till it seemed well to go
out also, and see what was the finishing chapter in their
contented and well-ordered arrangement.
A larger room, that, at the first glance, seemed all that
iliere was of innovation or variety ; a much larger room,
and many more women, so many more women that there
were not seats for all ; that women were standing in thick
clusters, and in proper rows, en queue ; that they were
moving in rotation, or selection. But when the gas had
been lighted, and things were understood, there was more
difference than this to be noted. Certain ends of the room
had been partitioned off as quiet consulting rooms ; there
was one of these compartments for each doctor on the staff;
each was closely cut off and shut in from the rest of the
room, and from one another ; each had the name of the
doctor using it, put prominently on it for direction ; each
had its attendant batch, or cluster, of patients waiting near
by, so that they might go in numerical order, the instant
a seen patient came out.
'' There, it's your turn next," one of the waiting women,
a happy, chatty little creature, said to a young girl, as she
pleasantly manoeuvred her into place. ^* You stand there,
ready. For your number is before mine, and then mine is
next."
She might have been a railway-passenger, waiting at the
pay-office to take tickets for the next excursion train, she
waa so cheery and — apparently — well ; she might have had,
moreover, plenty of provisions for a joyous journey, and
No 2, Vol. 26. I
114 HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS, '"B^^KbTSlttt!
welcoming friends to wait for her at the end of it. Tet
this woman had been struck with fright, or grief, or some
canse that had affected the nerves of her throat, she unfolded,
when she was gently asked ; she had been struck with it
so seyerely, it was tiiought she never could be cured ; she
had herself given herself up to death, and her sufferings
had been intense. She was not well yet, as her presence
there testified ; for all that, well, it was only necessary to
see her, and to hear her, to be aware of how she overcame
the much that was remaining with her, and to be full of
admiration. It is only necessary to add that, as she and
the other women emerged from the consulting-rooms, seen
and satisfied, they filed up, through barriers, to the dis-
pensary; that they handed in their prescriptions and bottles
patientiy, through a sliding window ; that they were attended
to, quickly and compassionately, by a lady dispenser — this
new branch of skilled female labour having been ezperi*
mented upon at this hospital, and found entirely successful.
That they then were told when they were to come again,
and had only to pass out, finding their way up into t^e
streets at another side of the building, through another
area-door.
A short account, now, of the grey stone building, belong-
ing to the grey stone stairs, and to the grey stone area, down
and across which out-patients had to go. It is a building
full of fascinating historical interest.
When Bolingbroke was sharing with Harley the honours,
fugitive as they were, of Queen Aime's expiring govern-
ment, with the Marlboroughs to wrangle about this, and
Mrs. Masham to alternately help and foil the whole, profuse
preparations were being made to receive a new ambassador,
the Due d'Aumont, from Louis Quatorze.
** We lost our opportunity to hire the Earl of Leicester's
house for you, ** writes Bolingbroke, in French, to this ex-
pected and magnificent official, writing it on November 11,
1712 ; '* which I am sorry for, because it will be difficult to
find another that may suit you ; however, I shall not fail to
contribute my endeavours for that purpose. "
The end of the endeavours was that the ambassador, with
his retinue, with his manage, with his ceremonies, his
splendour, his lavish expenditure, his foreign refinements
and graces, was taken to the very spot of ground where the
out-door patients have been seen at waiting-time on this
women's afternoon ; and that, in full peruke, and buckram,
BSiS^SrrSm^ hospital out-patients. 116
and powder, and iaoe-patches, his excellency held his costly
court there. It was Powis Hoase then ; built by William
Herbert, Marquis of Powis. This was the Powis who was
with James the Second in Ireland at the Battle of the Boyne;
who was excluded by name from the Bill of Indemnity
issued by William and Mary ; who was with the GhevaUer
when big moek-highness was proclaimed king at Warkworth,
Morpeth, and Alnwick ; who was, for all this work and
more like it, in 1716 committed to the Tower, and rendered
unable, eonsequently, to do much residence at his own
stately town-mansion in person. And Powis House was
worthy of the choice that fell upon it by Bolingbroke, un-
doubtedlyi Great Ormond Street, where it stood, and
stands, was the resort then of those who loved the beautiful,
and who had the leisure to go and seek it. Says a Critical
Beviewer of the sights of the metropolis, writing even as
late as 1784 : '* Onnond Street is another place of pleasure,
and that side of it next the fields is, beyond question, one
of the most charming situations about town." Was
it not fit for Bolingbroke to fix therein the elegant
French peer ? Close by was Southampton Bow, which the
same Critical Beviewer says was '' built for the sake of the
prospect before it, but for my part, I should be uneasy at
residing there, for want of shelter from the wind in winter,
and the sun in summer ; " a state of things that must have
given the ambassador a £Eivourable idea of English climate,
and bmte kept him pleasantly ignorant of London fogs. As
for the house itself, as it was when M. le Due was driven
up to it after Bolingbroke had offered him a frigate or two
to convey his equipage across the Channel, and the queen's
orders for two ships then in the Downs, it must have been
grand, for the ambassador was a grand man. '' I expect
you with impatience,*' wrote Bolingbroke to him from
Whitehall, on September 26, 1712, just before the fiEdlure
to hire Leicester House. *^ The king " (Louis the Four-
teenth) ** makes the Due d'Aumont knight of his orders
before his departure," writes De Toroy from Versailles to
Bolingbroke, delightedly. ** At present my time passes
unpleasantly enough," writes Bolingbroke to the Due him-
self, a year after, '' but I hope to be recompensed during
the four days I am to pass with you."' ** From my stable,
among dogs and horses, in the midst of the most profound
retreat, I have nothing to wish for to make me completely
happy but the conversation of the dear Due d'Aumont,"
1^2
116 HOSPITAL OUT-PATIENTS. "S^fSK"?^!
writes Bolingbroke to him again. " Wherever I am, the
Dnc d'Amnont shall certainly not he forgotten. I embrace
you a thousand and a thousand times ; may I cease to live
when I cease to be with perfect devotion yours/' and so forth.
All of which, of course, meant riches, and gaiety, superb
entertainments, brilliant salons, and Powis House must
have been of the sort to suit it. There was masquerading
there — M. le Due's own novelty. It was introduced ** into
this city in our time," writes Steele bitterly, in The Free-
thinker, *' by a French duke, whose chief business was to
seduce us by specious appearances, and to undermine the
virtue of the nation by such methods of luxury." There
was gaming there — high gaming — ^for the Grand Monarque
had to give his grand representative a sum of one hundred
thousand livres, together with a pension of fifty thousand
livres for four years, in order that his finances might, in
some way, be set right after what has been justly called his
vain, and ostentatious, and ruinous embassy. There was
plotting there — ^plots about the Pretender, and plots about
the peace, all of them so much identified with the Due
d'Aumont, in his lace and flippancy, his perfumes and plush
lappels, that the anti-Stuart party, following the leadership
of Steele (then M.P., and on his tnal for anti-Stuart writings,
and being voted to be expelled the House), became an anti-
D'Aumont party into the bargain, and grew enraged. They
sang ballads about this luxurious French Mounseer they
hated — ^ballads in English, ballads in French, and scurrilous
all ; they met this luxurious French Mounseer they hated,
and insulted him to his patched face in the open streets ;
they wrote anonjnnous letters, threatening the luxurious
Mounseer that they would bum his hired Powis House about
his ears ; till at last there came small riotings from one
small cause and another conjoined, and there was really
heard the cry of ''Fire ! " from Mounseer's splendid residence,
the flames leaped through it, and it was levelled to the
ground.
The Powis House, therefore, in which out-patients have
been seen to sit during their waiting-time, on this women's
afternoon, is not the absolute Powis House to which
Bolingbroke, and Harley, and the Abbe Gualtier, and
Mesnager, and a throng of gay others, were carried, in sedan
chairs and gilt coaches, during the occupancy of the Due
d'Aumont. This present Powis House is the one that was
rebuilt after the fire ; and touching the rebuilding there is
faSS^^^b^TSS^ HOSPITAL OtT-PATlBNtS. 117
- ■— , I. I i f
told a pretty story. It is said that Louis Qaatorze, desiring
to be beholden to no fire-insurance company for salvage
money, or restitution money, or the like, and not conceiving
it politic to adopt the suggestion that his ambassador's
residence had been burnt of intent, insisted upon doing
the rebuilding at his own cost. It is possible. It is said,
though, that Louis Quatorze, in rebuilding, rebuilt to hit
his ambassador's requirements. One of these was that his
excellency should fish ; and the king, it is asserted, had the
new roof constructed so that it should hold an artificial
pond, artificially stocked ; by the side of which M. le Duo
could hold his rod and lines, soothed by the charming pros-
pect, and benefited by the fine air, and could angle, and
could angle, and — ^be amused. It will not hold. For M.
le Due d'Aumont only held office for a year. Powis House
could not have been inhabited by him, and burnt, and re-
planned, and rebuilt, in such an insignificant space of time ;
and — that part of the pretty little story goed.
The matter now left to be mentioned is confined to very
small dimensions. In 1734, the Critical Beviewer men-
tions the rebuilt edifice thus : ** Powis House is a building of
much beauty and elegance, the lower part of it, in par-
ticular, has a very good claim to applause, but then the attio
storey is monstrous, out of proportion, and no way akin to
taste. To this we may add that the house itself is pent up
for want of room, and stands greatly in need of wings to
make it perfect and complete. " The house itself, at the
present day, being not nearly so much pent up for want of
room, seeing that it has been mach enlarged, stands only
in need of being better known to make it perfect and com-
plete. It is the Homoeopathic Hospital for General Cases
— for children as well as women and men — lying quite half
a mile away from any other hospital applied to the same
purposes, and whilst allowing for the wide difference of
judgment that exists as to the advisability of homoBopathio
treatment — a question for discussion in medical journals,
not in this — there can be no two thoughts about the
advantage of instant application of skilful surgery the
moment it is required ; and as the difference between con-
veying an injured person to rest and relief near at hand,
and conveying him over another half-mile of ground to get
it, might prove to be the exact difference between life and
death, it is well it should be remembered that there is this
extra haven in Great Ormond Street, and that, exactly likq
118 BEYIEWB. ^'S^jiBrgiSS!
similar insiitationBy it has its doors hospitably open night
and day.
Whilst the question of receiving paying patients in
hospitals, too, is secoring mnoh public attention, the com-
mittee in Great Ormond Street are quietly taking paying
patients in, and will be able in due time to report as to
results.
REVIEWS.
Surgical Disecues and their Homoeopathic Therapeutics. By
J. G. GiLCBBiST, M.D. 8rd edition. Re-written. Chicago.
Duncan Brothers. 1880.
Thb scope of this work is thus defined by Dr. Gilchrist in his
preface : "All true homoeopaths will gladly lend their aid to
hasten the time when a surgical operation, for the cure of a
morbid affection, will be justly considered a confession of
ignorance and incapacity. Tlie present work," the writer hopes,
« will have some little influence in this direction."
The author was lecturer to the Homoeopathic College of the
University of Michigan; and the lectures he deliyered in that
capacity form the ground-work of the present volume. In the
preface to the first edition, dated 1878, he claims to be the first
to give a systematic treatise on the apphcation of homoeopathic
therapeutics to the treatment of surgical diseases. His work, he
says, is ''a Pioneer Work."
He starts with the principle that there is no such thing as load
disease. Tumours, ulcers, and abnormal growths are but peri-
pheral symptoms of a generally diseased organism ; and surgical
differ from other diseases, merely in the fact that the former are
chiefly recognised through objective symptoms. There is, how-
ever, a difficulty in finding a true simillimum in such cases ; for
it is but rarely that a prover has been able to produce sudi
manifest objective symptoms, e.g,, a tumour or an ulcer, in the^
course of his experimental provings. Indeed, it is among the
clinical symptoms of a drug that we most often find an indication
for its use in surgical cases. This work then is a guide to
these clinical symptoms more especially^ It indicates, for instaooe,
what drugs have apparently cured cataract, — ^it is for the student
to search in the symptomatology of these indicated drugs, for a
remedy which shall be a true simillimum, taking into considera-
tion Uie subjective symptoms, the constitution, diathesis, and
mental peculiarities of the patient.
In the introduction, we find an enquiry into the nature and
causation of disease. ** Before an organ can become diseased
there must be some chtmgo ih the coihbimttion of its atoms.
'
fi^&Tia!"' BBVUWS. 119
This change may be one of motion^ of proportion or of quality.
Diseases commence on the atomic plane, thej are at first merdj
functional, and proceed from changes in vital ^harmony.*' This
tbeoxj eoconrages the author to maintain tlie curability of the
most formidable surgical diseases, and gives additional ground
for bdief in the efficacy of attenuated remedies. For if disease
be caused only by molecular and atomic changes, its removal
must likewise be afected by promoting an alteration in atomic
production, motion, or combination. And if disease is a pheno-
menon of motion merely, the quantity of the remedial agent can
have but little to do with the result.
"Thus," says our author, <*we must treat the individual,
rather than ibe disease, and in true HahTiemanian manner address
ourselves to the totality of symptoms."
Coming to the practical portion of the book, we find the first
chapter treats of Inflammation. In describing the pathology
of inflammation, the author quotes largely from Holmes*
System of Surgery. In the matter of treatment he lays great
stress on the exclusion of air, and the sparing application of
water.
The second chapter is on Erysipelas. In its treatment Dr.
Gilchrist rigorously forbids the use of alcohol, even in the worst
cases of phlegmonous erysipelas; this he does in view of its
secondary depressant effect. Arsenic is indicated in cases of
sqptic poisoning. SiUca also has in its pathogenesis a picture
of the worst forms of phlegmonous erysipelas, with a tendency to
eitand in depth ; whereas in, rhus tox» the tendency is to super-
ficial extension with typhoid symptoms. Lachesis and belladonna
are also useful, the latter when the heat is pungent and radi-
ating; the fonnerwhen the suppuration occurs in spots, drying
into cheesy masses from which the skin peels off.
The cluster on Suppuration and Abscess follows. The remedies
indicated are distinguished by the character of the discharge,
thns :-— .^TMiea, for hnmorrhagio effusion; arsenicup'.f putrid,
copious, bloody discharge ; baryta c, lymphatic abscess ; bellch
donna, offensive, scanty pus, thick and yellow ; calcarea carb.^
pus copious or scanty ; calendula, landible pus but too profuse ;
carbo, veg,, bloody and ichorous ; hepar «., for encouraging sup-
puration ; iodiiMj hectic discharge, very profrise ; mercurius, to
arrest formation of pus in a threatened abscess; phosphorus^
copious, yellow ; Pulsatilla^ green ; rhus, serous corroding ;
Mm, brown, gelatinous or thin ; sulphur, thin black and putrid
pus, &c.
In discussing the cause and nature of pyeemia, Dr. Gilchrist'
describes it as a veritable toxcemia. In any case, the germ
theory finds but little favour in his eyes. Arsenicum is here the
sheet apchor. The great depression and prostration are very
1^0 REVIEWS* Rmvmw. PaH. 1. IflBl.
Bariew. Fel». 1, UBL
\
characteristic of that drag. Paerperal septicsemia, under his
treatment, seldom has a faXal resolt ; and here he relies on the
same medicine, with the addition of rhus and siUeay &c.
In the treatment of nlcers all local applications are rigor-
onslj forbidden, except in yaricose nlcers, however, where a
plain bandage is admissible. The remedy is to be exhibited in
a high dilation, not below the SOth. Nearly every remedy in
the JMateria Mediea may, according to Dr. Gilchrist, be consnlted*
HamameUs virginica is espedaDy praised as a specific in cases of
varicose nicer, although its use is confessed to be merely em-
pirical. Indolent nlcers are treated by a constant galvanie
corrent, thus : — *' A piece of silver foil is cut the exact size of
the nicer, and connected by six inches of copper wire to a zinc
plate the same size. The silver is applied to the nicer, and the
zinc to the skin ; a piece of kid, wet with vinegar, being between
it and the skin." We have fonnd Martin's solid indOa-mbber
bandage applied direct to the ulcer very efficacious in the most
inveterate and obstinate ulcerations of all varieties. There are
four cases detailed, in which carbo. veg,^ 80, sarsap,^ puis., 12,
and sempervivum Uct, Ix., are credited with the cure.
In the different varieties of mortification, arseme is indicated
in cases of senile gangrene ; lachesis where the disease is confined
to the skin; secalecor.f 80, in chronic gangrene. In the treat-
ment of bed sores, where, it should be remembered, spinal
irritation plays an important role, artetiicum is the principal
remedy.
In cases of carbuncle, the homoeopathic treatment is very
satisfactory. Anmic here, too, is the main remedy. Severe pain
may be reUeved instantly by inserting a bit of caustic potash into
one of the apertures. No crucial incisions are necessary.
Belladonna is indicated if brain symptoms predominate, and
lachesis when the ulceration spreads with much discoloration
around.
Boils may sometimes be aborted by arnica internally, and
whitlow by the external application of iris versicolor — so says
Br. Gilchnst.
The first part, that treating of general surgical diseases, con-
eludes with the chapter on Tumours. The author has paid a
good deal of attention to this subject, and has ahready published
a treatise entitied Tumours ; their Etiology and Curability.
With regard to operation, he says: "A tumour is only the
symptom of the disease, and not the disease itself. It would be
just as rational to cut out the pocks in small-pox, as to cut out a
tumour and expect therefrom a cure." His arguments for delay
in resorting to operative measures are weighty. His experience
appears to have been considerable, and therefore he spe^ with
authority. He has seen <* latent morbid processes at a distance
Sa^J£T«?^ BBvmws. 121
Beflew, Feb. 1, ISU.
ezeited into ftcUvity by remoTing a tamoar ; *' as in the case of
Blight's disease following the ablation of sebaceous tmnours. He
advises the surgeon at all events to wait till a tomonr has
attained its full development, when it ceases to grow, and the
morbid process is extinct. He adduces instances of the heredi-
tary nature of sebaceons tnmonrs, and of fatty and other benign
tomotffs ; of the transference of the morbid process from one
place to another after excision. He therefore strongly urges
perseverance in the exhibition of well-chosen remedies, for a
protracted period, in all cases, even where it appears hopeless to
expect any result except from an operation.
The signs of approaching cure are thus enumerated : " In, from
one to six months the growth of the tumour will be stayed, and
this period of quiescence will be followed by softening of the
whole tumour. The skin will begin to itch and bite, the lym-
phatics will be readily traced and somewhat enlarged, the gbmds
will be slightly tumefied, but there will be no real increase of pain,
and the general health will improve. If such a result follow
treatment, you may congratulate your patient and yourself on
having made a cure on scientific principles, tfnd you need have
no fear of recurrence.'*
In the treatment of cystic tumours, the author speaks highly
of the results of electrolysis, and cases of cure are related by
eolocynth 200, by apis 1, platin., graphites, calcarea carb,, and
Judibrcm.
The results of treatment in cases of epithelioma are very satis-
factory. The principal remedies are carbolic add, hydrasUSf
kreosoUy phosphorus^ auruntj thuja, sulphur.
Then follows a very interesting list of cases of true malignant
disease which have been cured. The list is long and exhaustive,
and is accompanied by full reference to the authorities quoted.
In Dr. GHlchrist's own practice, apis met. is credited with the
eura of cancerous ulceration and of semi-malignant growths and
small ulcers, with grey sloughs, deep, and running into one
another, with erysipelatous inflammation of the skin. Arsenicum
iod, seems better fitted than ars, alb. to cure easily bleeding foul
destructive ulcers, characterised by pain deep in the interior of
the tumour. It is also indicated in cases of lupus. Baryta earb.
has been found useful in the glandular and atheromatous tumours
of old people, and in cases of lipoma. Silica^ however, in a
high potency k our anthor's favourite remedy, and in his hands
has cured more tumours than any other. He also uses it,
together with sulphur , to complete the amelioration begun by
other remedies.
Time and spaee forbid us to follow our author through the
seeoud part of his book. We wotdd especially commend the
122 RBvmwB. "^J^^SKTSS*
B«Tkir,EUi. l,18tt.
chapter on aneurism, that on bone disease, and the conclnding
one on syphilis.
With regard to the question of dose, Dr. Gilchrist asserts on-
phatically that, at least in bone diseases, the 80th centewmiil
dilution is the lowest that he has found really useful. In acute
cases it is his practice to give a dose evexy hour ; in chronic
cases, one dose a day until some impression is made, and then
the remedy is discontinued as long as any medicinal action
continues.
Although a systematic work on surgery, and originally delivered
to a class of students at the Michigan University, it ondia all
notice of operative procedures. It would have been a great boon
to the English practitioner, at least, if it could have been still
farther abbreviated by the omission of much of the pathology
and the descriptive and theoretical matter, and had been devoted
exclusively, as its title indicates, to the homoeopathic therapeutics
of surgical diseases. There is a good deal of matter extracted
from Holmes* System of Surgery, and elsewhere, which is not
improved by the process of transplantatioQ. Indeed the author's
English, or rather American, is sometimes rather involved,
and his meaning not very clear. Certain inelegancies of diction
too crop up frequently. * ' Morbus hightii ' ' looks uncanny ; and so
does '* Emu-genesis.'* The latter, we should say, is the title of a
work Dr. Gilchristhas passing through the press, entitled Surgical
Emu-genesis and Accidents, However, it is evident the author
writes from a thorough knowledge and wide experience of his
subject, and possesses a robust faith in the efficacy of homceo-
pathic remedies, which must prove invigorating and refreshing to
aD who consult his pages.
We feel sure that the sympathetic reader will rise from a
careful perusal, with the conviction that there is no surgical
disease, however formidable, which is wholly outside the Fange
of homoeopathic therapeutic treatment. It will have done a really
good work if it encourages homoeopathic practitioners to persevere
steadily in the use of remedies, even when a case ^ipears well-
nigh hopeless. '* More than once,** says Dr. Qilchrist, *.^ I have
been on the point of giving up.trsaibnent and xesortiDg to tf-
tirpation, when the tumour has suddenly commenced to . dis-
appear.'* We have ourselves recently seen two wdL-marked
cases of epithelioma cured by homoeopathic treatment, after tboy
had been pronounced incurable by surgeons of eminence. Both
made a complete recovery, although both were condemned to the
knife, and one had already recuired after operation.
We fear that the homceopathic practitioner,. in this country at
least, is far too ready to transfer the cure of surgical patients
into the hands of the orthodox specialist. No m^ter how serious
or how slight the case, we believe that « homoeopath baa no right
thus to deprive his patient of all therapeutic aid in the treatment
of surgical disease. For onr most noted surgeons, those of whom
we are most proud, and justly proud, seem to nourish a sovereign
contempt for therapeutic means. ** Give me Mercury and Iodide
of Potash," says one of the most learned and doquent of these,
« give me Opium and Quinine, and you may throw the rest of the
physic to the dogs."
It is with a feeling of mixed shame and indignation that one
looks along the crowded wards of our magnificent hospitals and
sees the amount of preventihle suffering and disease. What
splendid fields for enlightened therapeutic practice, lying waste
or Mow; what harvests of clinical experience ungathered.
When one thinks of the thousand suppurations without kepar to
quicken, or n2tca to check, of the fevers without acomte or
heUadannaf of the bruises all anuca-lesB, the bone diseases without
nUea, the caiicers without arsenic^ and the strumous diseases
without calcar&a, shall we not register a vow that England shall
no longer remain so &x behind her American cousins, and that
homcBopathy whdU ere long be adequately represented in the
surgical hospitals of Great Britain.
Tkt Medical Attendance on Poor and Rich in London and other
large English Toicns, compared with the same in Paris and
other Toums, A suggestion for the introduction of Br. Passant*s
plan into England. By Dr, Both. Bailliere & Co., London.
1880.
This pamphlet is a reprint, with a few additions, of the essay by
Br. Both, which sppeared in our Becember number. I%e im*
portsnce of the topic discussed it is impossible to exaggerate.
'J%e necessity for making provision for sudden attacks of illness,
and for aoddente ooenrring at night, is a duty imperative upon
all municipal bodies. A notion prevails that medical men are
bound to obey every summons to attend a sibk person, at what*
ever inconvenience or risk to themselves, and with, however,
little probahilify of any remuneration for their, services. No such
oUigation rests upon them. It is true that few, if any, would
ne^^t to respond to such a call, but it is fully time that «ome
soeh arrangements as those described by Br. Both should be
made. Were they earned out here as they are in large Continental
and some American cities, only those medical practitioners would
be disturbed who were prepared to undertake such duty, and they
would be ensured some sort of- emolument. The British Medical
AssociatioB has taken the matter up, and we trust that they will
be able to cany Br. Both's views into practical operation.
124 KOTABILU, ^"S^^ggySL
Dress: Its Sanitary Aspect. By Bebkabo Both, F.B.C.S.
Eng. London : I. and A. Churchill. 1880.
In this Tory well written and thoroughly practical essays Mr.
Both points out the mischieyous efiEects which arise from Uie use
of clothing made to square with the notions of milliners and
bootmakers, rather than with the requirements of nature. He
shows clearly and fully that dress to be perfect, from a sanitary
point of view, should be so arranged as neither to overheai or
leave unprotected from cold any part of the body ; it should be
adapted to the sudden changes of temperature to which our
climate is liable — and, for this reason, flannel should, if possible,
be worn next to the skin ; it should not interfere with the circu-
lation of any part, nor with the free use of the limbs, and the
respiratory movements of the chest and abdomen ; lastly, it
should not produce deformity, but should everywhere follow
instead the natural lines of the human body.
Mr. Both illustrates the principles he enforces by some useful
plates.
We strongly recommend the careful perusal of this essay to
everyone, and especially to ladies, and feel sure that if they will
adopt its teachings they will be more comfortable and more
healthy.
NOTABILIA.
THE BIBMINGHAM MEDICAL INSTITUTE.
It will be within the recollection of our readers that at the for-
mation of this Institute a strenuous effort was made to exclude
from its membership all medical men known to practise homoeo-
pathically. This attempt met with the fate it deserved. It was
amply frustrated. By an ingenious mancBUvre, however, the
bye-law relating to the mode of admitting members was so fr^ed
as practically to place the election in i^e hands of a few. By
this arrangement no notice was given to the candidate, or the
members generally, of an approaching election, but at any time
that the Committee saw fit a ballot box was placed in the library
for a certain period prior to each committee meeting, and black
balls to the extent of a third excluded a candidate. In April last
Dr. Huxley, of Birmingham, presented himself for election. Ten
members only out of the hundred and seventy voted, and of
these, four being opposed, Dr. Huxley was refused admission.
Again in December he applied. On this occasion twelve voted,
but he still did not obtain the requisite two-thirds. In con-
sequence of this Drs. Greene, Carter and Malins requested the
President to call a meeting to consider the law of election. At
JSK^STmm^ notabilu. 126
the meeting seventj-fonr were present, and after a stormy dis-
eoflflion a motion proposed bj Dr. Johnston to the effect that any
duly ^[oalified medical man residing within fifty miles of Birming-
ham should be eligible for membership of the Institute on pro-
ducing a certificate signed by six members — three of them being
members of the committee— declaring the candidate to be a
fit and proper person to eiyoy the privileges of the Institute, was
earried by 57 to 17. At a subsequent meeting held to confirm
this decision, no opposition presented itself. Early in December
Dr. Huxley's certificate of fitness was presented, and he is now a
member of the Institute. We congratulate our Birmingham
firiends on the victory they have obtamed over the narrow and
persecuting spirit of a smi^ allopathic faction.
THE BASTINaS AND ST. LEONARDS HOMCEOPATHIC
DISPENSARY.
Fbok the report of this Institution, a portion of which is sub-
joined, we are glad to leam^lst, that the two dispensaries
hitherto existing have been united, the medical officers being
Dr. Croucher and Mr. G. Enox Shaw, M.B.G.S. Eng. ; 2nd, we
observe vrith pleasure that Hastings is not to be outdone by
Bournemouth, but that the energy and zeal which have borne
such admirable fruit in the one town are coining into play in the
other, and that ere long a "Home" will be established in
Hastings for invalids and convalescents among the poorer
members of society.
The following extracts irom the report will be found
interesting: —
" During the year 716 patients presented themselves at the
Dispensary for relief, and the total number of attendances
recorded is 2,621, making an average weekly attendance of about
«2 patients. * * *
" The benefits conferred by the Dispensary could be largely
inereased by the opening of a Home in connection with it, for
the reception of severe cases of illness and for those patients who
may have to undergo operations.
'*A lady has most generously given a donation of Two
Hundred Poirnds towards a fond for this Home, and further aid
is promised from others. It is proposed at first to hire a few
rooms, or, should the funds allow it, to take a small house for
file purpose.
** Subscriptions and donations for < The Home Fund ' will be
^adly received by E. 0. Wollaston, Esq., 44, Pevensey Bead, or
any member of the Committee. Gifts of linen, blankets,
bedding, &c., will be of great service and thankfully received."
126
VOTABILU.
Bewtev, N). 1, lai.
PBIZE OF THIBTY FOUNDS.
Db. Prateb, whose generous gift of a prize in 1879 for the best
collection of clinical cases, produced sach excellent results,
again offers a prize of iSdO for the best collection of cases
obtained from the yarions allopathic jonmals for the last 20 years,
in which the treatment employed for the cure or relief of nea-
ralgia and bronchitis was prodactive of harm instead of good. If
in any of the cases past mortem appearances have any hairing on
the question, these are to be noticed. Comments on the cases,
and the injurious e£bcts of the medicines, are expected.
Candidates to send in their essays on or before October Slst,
1881, to Dr. Dyce Brown, 29, Seymour Street, Portman Square,
W. The adjudicators of the prize to be Drs. Bayes, Hughes,
Pope, and Dyce Brown.
INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATfflC CONTENTION.
ADDITIONAL BTTBSCBIPTIONS.
George Norman, Esq. ...
Dr. Tnthill Massy
E. R.B. Beynolds...
P. Proctor
Wielobycki
Samnel Brown
Washington Epps ...
DiyCO ... ... ••.
Bcniran
T. Mdlwraith...
J. M. Galloway
£ s. d.
tt
ft
•I
II
If
•»
II
*•• •••
>i
1
1
1
1
I
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Dr. Prater ...
„ F. Black ...
„ Eabnloa Williams...
„ Clarke
„ Pnllar
H. HarriB, Esq.
£ B. d.
••. ...
... ...
..• ...
..• •«• •••
• a. •••
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
17 17 0
Pteriously annoonoed ... 46 4 0
Total
...£64 1 0
l%e above represents the snbsciiptionB from 58 physicians
and surgeons practising homoeopaUiy. The Homaopathic
Directory contains the names of about 800 practitioners of
homoeopathy. It is hoped that the 240 or more who have not
yet sent in their subscriptions will shortly do so, as it is
impossible to make arrangements for the coming Convention
until the sum likely to be contributed is definitely known.
William Baixb, MJ).,
21, Henrietta Street, Treamrer.
Cavendish Square, London, W.
16th January, 1881.
BBmSH fiOMCEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
The next meeting of this Society will take place on the 8rd inst.,
at seven o'clock, when Dr. Both will read a paper on Bick^ —
a subject to which he has devoted much attention. Additional
interest attaches to rickets just now, as it is a disease which has
very recently been elaborately, if not profitably, discussed at the
Pathological Society.
SSS^MTTiSS?** COBBBSPONBBHOB. 127
JbBfkaWf P^eb. 1, 18B1.
CORRESPONDENCE.
ON THE NATUBE OP THE ACTION OF AKSENIC
AND OTHER POWERFUL DRUGS.
To tk$ Editon of the Monthly Honueopathie lUvimo.
Gentlemen, — The late Sir John Forbes in his work entitled
Nature and Art in Dieeaee calls homoeopathy a do-nothing
system. Bat in this assertion he forgets that it uses arsenic and
other poweifbl agents. I think that it would be useful to give
some experiments in detail of the effects of arsenic when giyen in
the smallest proportions. Forbes forgot too *' catalytic action."
Long ago Berzelius proved the wondeifol power of this, and it is
no doubt often much concerned in fermentation and putrefaction
(and hence in vital forces) in a way which we do not well under-
stand. Nay, the chances are, that it is far oftener concerned
in vital than in merely physical processes. Not only are we
taught by the skin the wonderful power of mere contact, bat
even by the eye, when any person is within the range of vision.
As we know so little even yet of the real nature of life, I hold
therefore that artemc and some other agents may possibly act by
catalytic action only, but of course experiment should be brought
to our aid on this point. The reflections of Dr. Whytt on
' instinct and involuntary motion have induced me to come to the
: eonelnaion that ttus force is not only fiar more sensitive than that
which causes involuntary motion, but almost an unconscious power,
except when extraneous matter either touches or threatens it, i.e,,
when dust gets into the eyes ; secondly, when a person seems
going to sti^e them, and causes winking instantly, however much
we (^e voluntary power) may try to prevent it. In Dr. Beale's
Protoplasm (1874) are some facts tending to the support of this
opinion, in which there is a section on ** Contact Force " (p. 62).
Granting, then, that the involuntary force is far more sensitive
to minute quantities of matter (as homoeopathic preparations), we
may also, I think, further add that it is a power different in its
likes and dislikes from our voluntary conscious power. Hence
homoeopathic medicines may do this power good, though we may
&ncy, from tasting the pilules, that it could not do so, as we
find nothing but a sweet taste in them. How often do drugs or
food tend to make us sick, though we like the taste of them !
The sensitive non-reflecting involuntary power is then affected by
minute doses as if they were poisons, and yet these may not
iiritate us (the voluntary power) at all. Experiment can alone
decide- sa to the powers of homoeopathy, and not mere intwested
dSee of ''linpossible " and low abuse.
I am, Gentlemen, yours, Ac,
H, PBiLTXH, M.D.
128 C0BBE8P0NDENT8. ^'^SL^f'?^'
Bevieir.Bbb. 1,1881.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
«% We earniot undertake to return rejected mamueripte.
Mr. Williams'b paper on " Bright's Disease " is in type, bat we re^xet
haying been obliged to postpone its publication until next month. Out
re?iew of Dr. Buenbtt's new work on ** Diseases of the Veins " we are
also compelled to defer.
Commnnications, Ac. have been reoeived from Dr. BiTXS, Dr. Boxe,
Dr. CiiABEa, and Mr. 0. Digxshs (London); Mr. Butghbb (Beading);
Dr. Shabp (Bogby) ; Dr. Buavmn (London) ; Dr. Gnrmmox (London) ;
Dr. OoopsB (LoncUm) ; ftc.
BOOKS RECEIVED.
The Lowe of TherapeuUes, By J. Kidd, MJ). 3nd Edition. London:
C. Kegan A Co. 1881.
Abridged TherapeutUs, Founded upon Hittology amd CeUuUnr Pathology.
By W. H. Sehiissler, MJ). Translated by Ml D. Walker. London :
Elliot Stock & Co. 1880.
Biliary Calculi^ Perineorraphy, Hotpital Gangrene, dte. By C. H.
Ton Tagen, M.D. New Toric : Boericke & Tafel. 1881.
Nephrectomy. By J. H. M'CleUand, MJ). Philadelphia : Sherman
and Co. 1880.
Sammhmg WietenschafUicher Abhandlungen atu dem Oehiete der
Hom&qpathie, Herawgegehen. Yon Dr. Carl Heinigke. Leipsic : Sdhwabe.
1881.
Bow to U$e the Foreepe^ de. By H. G. Landis, A.M., MJ). New Tork :
S.B. Treat. 1880.
TrameaetAone of the Horn, Med. Soe. of the State of Pemuylvama, 1880.
Britiih Journal of Hometopathy.
Homctopathie World. London.
The Students* Journal. London.
Th4 ChenUtt and Druggist. London.
Burgoyne*s Monthly Journal of Pharmacy. London.
Medieo-Chirurgical Quarterly. New York.
Homaopathic Times. New York.
Medical Record. New York.
American Homcsopath. New York.
Hahnemannian Monthly. Philadelphia.
United States Medical Investigator. Chieago.
Therapeutic Gazette. December. Detroit.
5(. Louis Clinical Review. St. Louis.
Homosopathic News. St. Louis.
VArtMidical. Paris.
BibUotKtque Homcuipathique. Paris.
Ref9ue Homaopatkique Beige. Bmxelles.
AUgemeine HomSopathische Zeitung. Leipsie,
m Criteria Medico. Madrid.
La Reforma Medico. Mexioo.
Papers, Dispensaxy Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. Popx, Lee Boad, London, S.E., or to Dr. D. Dtcb Bbown, 2d, Seymour
Street, Portman Square, W. Advertisements and Business Conmiuni-
eations to be sent to Messrs. E. Gould A Son, 69, Moorgate Street, B.C.
SSS^fi^TS^ OBSTACLES IK OlTB PATH. 129
Bsnew, Hkr. 1, 18SI.
THE MONTHLY
HOMCEOPATHIC REYIEW-
OBSTACLES IN OUR PATH.
The mle of progress is nniyersal; nothing is stationary.
ETerything in creation is either progressing or retrograding,
for in the processes of nature the cessation of progress is
the commencement of decay. In religion the aspiration
after progress to higher and better things is one of the
great levers for the elevation of mankind. That church or
sect which is content with standing still with folded hands
is that which is most easily disintegrated by schisms or
controTersies.
In art, progress is marked by the greater refinement and
the higher coltnre which characterise the works of its
votaries.
Science, too, is, by the discoveries and observations of
many noble intellects, being steadily raised from the misty
uncertainty of conjecture to the clear light of &ct| while
the way is being pointed to yet more brilliant achievements
in the near future.
New methods, new means, new appliances, new in-
dustries, indicate the steady progress of civilisation and
culture in the world.
No. 8, Vol. 25. z
180 0B8TAGLB8 IH ODE PATH. ^^f^^ESTTuBi!
Medicine has shared in the wave of progression, aknost,
it might be said, in spite of its professors. Discoyeries
on discoveries have been forced on the attention of the
medical world, and although at first derided, or, yet worse,
persecuted as dangerous innovations, have at length been
adopted, and been belauded to the skies by those who were
their principal opponents.
We might pass in review the long procession of bene-
factors to the healing art, Huntkb, Hahnexakn, Jksixer,
MuBCHisoN, Simpson, Liston, and many others, and see
their discoveries gradnaUy assimilated into the practice of
the time. Pre-eminent amongst them stands out the
patriarch Hahnemann — ^revolutionist in the truest sense of
the word. The more the world reviles a scientist, or
rather the more his fellows revile him, the more should
the true thinker be inclined to believe that there is truth
in the theory which he advanced.
So has it been with that new gospel of medicine pro-
mulgated by Hahnemann nearly a century ago. Deep
thinking, earnest men, after divesting their minds of the
frozen crust of bigotry, have inquired into and carefdlly
weighed the theory of homoBc^thy, and have boldly
announced their acceptance of its tenets. As the centuiy.
has worn on, this little band has grown, never faltering,
never wavering, always aiming at progress in the art of
scientific healing. During the present year the Inter-
national Convention will meet in London, and mark, as it
were, the height to which the tide of progress in
homoeopathy has reached, showing, in so doing, to the world
at large that homoeopathy is not the defunct or even
moribund delusion which many of its opponents would
fain delude themselves and others into believing that it is.
This will be a kind of awakening such as awaits the ostrich
after the temporary seclusion of its head in a bush !
iSSS^STm^** OB8TACLB8 IK OUB PATH. 131
Having legard to the near approach of this Convention,
a little introspection will be good» shomog ns what obstacles
to oar advance must be removed in order that the good
ship may glide smoothly on with fiavooring gales over the
limitless ocean of progress.
Looking back throng the records of homcdopathic
literature we find in the earlier volnmes of this and other
joomals indications of that fervid spirit of enthnsiasm
which all disciples of a new doctrine evince on their first
conversion. Gnres were eagerly recorded, the properties
of medicines discussed, associations formed, dispensaries
established, the whole constituting a pleasing picture of
progress. Is that progress extinct now? Assuredly
it is not. The novelty of homoeopathy has worn ofi*,
and it has been quietly accepted by multitudes of people
who use its medicines as a matter of course, without
calling any special attention to the fact or considering that
they are doing anything unusual. There is a river in
Yorkshire which takes its rise in a lovely tarn among the
hills, and which, after a short course, vanishes from sight
into a chasm of the earth, only to burst forth again at the
base of a clifiT with increased volume. Although lost to sight
DO one would be foolish enough to assert that it did not
exist. So is it with homoeopathy. Although perhaps not
80 prominently brought into notice as formerly, it steadily
grows Hke the river, and will ere long burst forth with
renewed vigour and ever extending influence. The obstacles
to more rapid progress in the meantime are both external
and internal. We will first glance at those of external
origin ; the chief of these are professional bigotry, public
ignorance, and legislative inactivity.
Professional bigotry is as bitter to-day as it was in the
beginning, and although we deplore its existence we see
but few signs of its near subsidence. And yet there
132 OBSTACLES IN OUB PATH. ^SSSSrSS^TiM^
is some slight change in its nature. Many of oar opponents
assert that they object not so much to the essence of
homcBopathy as to the name, and to the &ct of onr
identifying oorselves with that name. Looking aronnd the
range of modem therapeatics one may recognise many of
the remedies advocated by Hahnemann and his disciples,
adopted into the practice of modem physic, used empiri-
cally, no doabt, bat still none the less used, and admittedly
used, beneficially. Yet although some learned professors
gladly avail themselves of any hint of certainty in medicine,
they woold angrily repudiate the fact that they were in any
way teaching or encouraging what a certain body of " wise
and reverend signiors '* term " the deception called hom<BO-
pathy."
There are now, as there alivays have been, some few
striking exceptions to this rule; men who have large
minds, and who can recognise the fact, that it is possible
we may be right, although perhaps we may not always
think or act in accord with them. The bigotry of our
opponents delights to find expression in ridicule, and, for-
getful of the fact that '* abuse is not argument," endeavours
to scold homoBpathists out of the assurances experience has
given them, like naughty children. The medical press,
although the mouthpiece of a so-called liberal profession,
either wilfully perverts facts, or steadily represses any
attempt at honest controversy on homoBopathy. The e£fort
to smother it, however, has been happily frustrated by the
enterprise and public spirit of the first founders of our
journals ; so that, in place of being silenced, we have four
periodicals, throuj^ which is spread the knowledge of our
doctrines.
The second external obstacle is less serious. We allude
to the ignorance of the public. A body which has all to
gain and nothing to lose is g^enerally pretty soon convinced
iS^rSTiS^ OBSTACLES IN OUR PATH. 183
by anything which will benefit it. The cares wroaght by
homoBopathy before their own eyes are doing more to dissi*
pate the mists of pnblic ignorance than any amount of
emdite controyersies or pugilistic polemics. Much of the
half-comical ignorance abroad in onr midst is due to the
absurd definitions given of our law by our opponents. But
this is an age of inquiry, and people no longer take anything
as gospel on the word of a priest, whether of religion or
modicme. They are beginmng to reason for themselves,
and assuredly when a man begins to reason on a subject,
the truth breaks through the clouds which may hitherto
have enveloped it. Homoeopathy, in spite of the active
and passive opposition of aUopathic practitioners, is steadily
permeating all ranks of society, and lightening the lesser
ills of countless families throughout the land, whilst their
so-called orthodox medical attendants remain in many cases
in blissful ignorance of the fact. It is in this way that
homcsopathyjis at present principally spreading ; every family
medicine-chest becomes, as it were, a centre or focus of
proselytism. The good seed is thus being sown far and
mde ; and even now there is a field for labour far too large
for the reapers. Many of these svib rosd homoeopaths are
forced through pressure of circumstances to avail them-
selves of the services of their old allopathic attendant in
case of serious illness arising, because they are out of the
reach of a good homoeopath, or, forsooth, because they are
tender of the feelings of their family physician. Be all this
as it may, the field of homoeopathy is steadily widening,
and public opinion is being educated to understand its
enlightened practice and therapeutics. It is by the. soften-
ing influence of time, and the warm air of personal experi-
ence, that the iceberg of public ignorance must be thawed.
The third external obstacle is legislative inactivity.
England is one of the very few countries of note where
184 OBSTACLES IK OUB PATH. *^^^S?2ttS!
homoBopathy is not legally and officially recognised. We
might point to Austria, with its Leopoldstadt Hospital, to
France, to Spain, to Mexico, to the United States of America,
as countries in which it has been fully recognised already,
New York State is possessed of asylums, hospitals,
orphanages, supported by State funds and goyemed medi-
caUy by homoBopaths, under whose direction they are dis-
playing the benefits of the therapeutic system of
Hahnemann. Colleges and licensing bodies, recognised by
State Legislatures, and a body of practitioners, number-
ing well nigh 6,000 members, bearing themselves nobly in
the fray, all ranged under the flag of **9imUia gimilibtts
cvrantur.*' If homoBopathy is a deception, then all these
various governments are deceived in extending to it tolera^
tion or encouragement.
Look at our own colonies, in this matter bx in advance
of their mother isle. South Australia, with its homoaopathic
hospital, its mixed hospital, and one of its practitioners
high in municipal and legislative honour. Look at Victoria,
with its governor attended by a homoeopathic physician,
many of the members of parliament, and a majority of the
judges! Are these men likely to be ensnared by a
'* deception *' ? Melbourne has a good hospital^ and only
recently the legislative body, without dissent, voted a plot
of land and £600 towards the erection of a better building
for the practice of homoBopathy. Turning homewards, we
find, with sorrow, that England, which we Britons pride
ourselves is the capital, intellectual and political, of the
world, still obstinately refuses to recognise officially the
truth of the law of Hahnehann. LidividuaUy many of
our senators and legislators have experienced, and know
well the blessings of homodopathy, but, collectively, the
nation has hitherto hardened its heart against us. Whether
it continues to do so in the future rests in no small measure
iSSyiKTS?*^ OBSTACLES IN OUR PATH. 185
with onrselyes* Torn we now from these broad questions
to the more delieate ones of obstacles to our progress^
arising from causes within our own control. We may be
blamed perhaps for probing thus the wounds of our body.
We aim but at those blemishes which injure the frame,
like the skilfnl operator who uses the knife only in kindness
to his patient.
Looking round our ranks in the present day we find a
want, vdlde deflenAus^ of that kindly esprit de corps which
distinguished the fathers of the faith ; there is a lack of
that chivalrouB defence of our opinions which was ready to
step into the breach whenever occasion offered, forgetful of
self, position, or aggrandisement. There is a reluctance to
work for the cause at the cost perhaps of a little extra
personal exertion, thus throwing a heavy strain on a few,
which, if all were to bear a little, might be greatly lightened,
and advantageously distributed. Under this head, too, we
might, en passant, allude to the guerilla warfare raged
between the high and low dilutionists. Without expressing
any opinion as to the respective value of any special dose,
we should try to bear in mind the fact that the law of
similars is very wide in its application, catholic in its
scope, and very far from having reached the limit of perfect
completion in its medical application. We can reap our
fill of slander and vilification in the aUopathic journals,
and should always try to approach these and other vexed
questions in that spirit of calm inquiry which is ever dis-
played by seekers after truth. Let us at least show a
united front to the foe, and give him no crevice in our
armour wherein to plant his darts.
Another obstacle to our progress consists in an
insufficient education in homceopathy. This will some
day, we hope, be removed. The means at present in use,
the School, the Hospital, and the British Homoeopathic
186 OBSTACLES IN OUR PATH. ''^J^^g^^?^^
Society deserve all the sapport we can give them. We do
not intend to enter here into the relatiye value of our
educational appliances. If each one of ns individually
would use his influence to help our institutions forward we
should do much to remove this obstacle from our path.
Some there are who appear to make State recognition a
sine qud non of any effort to publicly teach homcBopathy.
But think what we have to recognise ! We are not^ as
in America, 6,000 strong; we have not yet, as in some
colonies, the bulk of public opinion at our back. When
we can point to a large hospital overflowing with patients,
and supported by the influence and clientele of every
homoeopathic practitioner throughout the land; when we
can show flourishing dispensaries in all our large towns ;
when we can draw attention to the fact that the School of
Homoeopathy is honestly approved by all our confreres as
the best mode of teaching homoeopathy ; when the public
of England are as well acquainted with our practice as they
are with that of our adversaries, then the time will have
come when we can demand recognition and with reason
expect to obtain it. The want of recognition is, we deem,
one of the lesser obstacles in our path, one which will
doubtless be removed, but one which we can bear longer
than any other. The spread of unanimity and bon
camaraderie in our ranks should be our immediate care,
and at a time like the present, especially in view of the
approaching International Congress, we should try to
divert our thoughts from minor differences, and to devote
all our energies to the spread of modem scientific
therapeutics.
^l^wS^lSS^ PREWBPOBITION. 187
PREDISPOSITION.
By William Shabp, M.D.,F.R,S.
(Conoluded from page 84.)
IV.— Force of Habit
Habits of life differ in nnmberlesB partioulaiB, and to
extremea which would be incredible, if they were not facts.
Watch the sedentary man and the fox-hnnter ; the literary
man and the billiard player ; the statesman and the cot-
tager ; the worker and the idler ; the temperate man and
the drinker ; watch shades of character and modes of life
as only a physician can watch them, and snch an impres*
flion of yariety and contrast will be made npon the mind
as almost to bewilder it with conflicting emotions. Now,
all these habits haye force, some of them irrestible force
oyer the man who is addicted to them ; they cannot, there-
fore, but haye relations of importance with the canses of
disease ; they cannot bat greatly influence predisposition.
This influence, indeed, will often be in opposite directions ;
it will sometimes greatly increase the susceptibility to the
action of the exciting causes of disease ; it will sometimes
BO strengthen the resisting power of life as to preyent their
action altogether. And as of other causes, so of drugs ;
some persons become increasingly sensitiye to the action
of a drug till they can take it no longer, which is called
intolerance; while others by habit can take eyen poisonous
doses of drugs, as of opium or arseiiic, without exi)eriencing
their usual effects, which is called tolerance.
Habits may belong to the mind, or to the body. (1) Mental
habits, where excessiye, increase predisposition to disease.
These excesses may be in opposite directions. Only a few
examples can be giyen, or this Essay will be too long.
Excessiye intellectual work depriyes the important organs
of the body of the amount of yital energy necessary for
the performance of their respectiye duties : the stomach
eannot digest food properly ; the assimilation of this im-
perfectly digested food is impeded; the blood is im-
poverished, and as a consequence, almost eyery part of the
body Buffers. On the other hand, mental indolence is in
other ways not less injurious. The habit of yielding to
irritability of temper, or passionate excitement of any
kind, does much bodily harm ; slow suicides of this kind
are not uncommoni and injurious effects also follow the
188 PREDiBPOSinoN. 'SSSL^SSTIffi"
Bsriew, Kar. 1, 18B1.
contrary habit of stolid indifference. Imperturbable peace
is a rich blessing; cold insensibility is a sore calamity,
(2) Bodily habits, if extreme in any direction, are exciting
causes of some diseases, and predisposing canses of many
more. Too much eating or too much drinking, or too
little of either. Too much muscular exertion in either
work, or play, or too little. Too much sleep, or too little.
Even the greatest and most lawful of all pleasures is not
exempt from the eyils of excess. How life is shortened
by some of these bodily habits is too well known, and such
bad habits cannot be sufficiently deplored.
Great mischief also arises from irregularity and mis-
timing of meals, sleep, and excercise. '^ Take food a little
and often," is a favourite piece of advice with many doctors.
It is surprising that they do not see how much harm is
done when this advice is followed. EspeciaUy is it given
to debilitated persons. How wrong this is would be seen,
if it were considered that the stomach is weak, as well as
the legs ; and that we might as well tell a weak man to be
always walking, as to be always taking food. Does not the
stomach require time to rest and recruit its strength after
the labour of digesting a meal (whether a large or a small
one) as much as the legs need a chair after a walk, and
before taking another ? It seems to me to be great
thoughtlessness to overlook this. Yet, how common the
advice is, and to what an extreme it is pushed in illnesses,
such as fever! Dr. Graves, of Dublin, wished it to be
inscribed on his tomb, that he had ''fed fevers." His
beginning was good, but now a poor creature who is ex-
hausted to the uttermost, is fed with strong beef-tea or
jelly every half hour, till he is poisoned with food and
dies ! This is the re-action from the opposite extreme
of sixty years ago, when patients in fever were starved
to death. Dr. Curie, of London, having so treated
patients, honestly treated himself in this way, and died.
In the same manner, mistiming sleep is injurious, late
hours being almost as bad as short hours. Exercise im-
mediately after a meal is bad, though young people suffer
much less from this than old ones do. So also fitful
exercise, as on one day a week, is hurtful. Irregularities
as well as extremes are bad, and every habit has a natural
tendency to grow into an extreme. I remember a patient
at Bradford fifty years ago who was dangerously iU, and to
whom, as he was not improving, my unole wnd, " Tou are
nSSS^SaamS^ pbbdibposition. 189
Berumr, Kw. 1, IflBl.
taking too mach brandy — Cleave it off/' A few days later,
there being yet no improyement, he said, ** You are still
taking brandy." "No/* replied the dok man, ''I have
not taken a drop since you forbade it ; bnt, Mr. Sharp, you
said nothing about rum ! " On the other side, the late
excellent Joseph Sturge died suddenly of a weak heart
because he could not conscientiously take one glass of
wine,
V. — Age.
The susceptibility to disease of the same individual
varies in early, mature, and declining life. The predis-
positions of children are singularly characteristic : their
intense vitality ; their comparatively large development of
brain ; the rapid progression of everything connected with
infan<7. Hence tiieir common diseases, cerebral, nervous,
and inflammatory; as hydrocephalus, convulsions, diarrhcsa,
fever. The liability of children to some diseases is so great
that they are commonly called the diseases of childhood,
such as measles, whooping-cough, and scarlet fever, of which
so many thousand children die. With these diseases is
coupled another suiprising fact — ^the exemption from them
in after life, when they have once been passed through.
All these are facts of diuly observation ; but of their causes
and nature, how they are taken, and how they are after-
wards avoided, we know nothing as yet. Another pecu-
liarity in the predisposition of children is seen in the
remarkably powerful action of minute doses of some drugs
commonly supposed to have, as medicines, little or no
action at all, as silica, carbonate of lime, sulphur ; and the
opposite of this in the comparatively slight action of other
drugs known to have energetic power over adults, as
calomel.
Predisposition to disease in mature life is characterised
by diminished force, or it is better to say, the resisting
power of the living body in middle life is in its highest
stage, though even now there are warnings around us suf-
ficient to subdue presumption. In "the Visions of
Mirza," looking at the great bridge of seventy arches,
he says: ''I saw several of the passengers dropping
through the bridge into the great tide that flowed under-
neath it, and upon further examination, perceived there
were innumerable trap-doors that lay concealed in the
bridge, which the passengers no sooner trod upon but they
140 PBEDIBPOSraON. "feS^^^S?^
Beriew, Mir. 1,1881.
fell through them into the tide, and immediately dis-
appeared. These hidden pit-&lls were set verytluck at
the entrance of the bridge, so that throngs of people no
sooner broke through the doad but many of them fell into
them. They grew thinner towards the nUddle"
The tendencies of old age are as strongly marked as
those of childhood, bat in a very different direction.
Feebleness of heart, ossification of arteries, failure of
muscles and the consequences of this, stifihess of joints,
impaired digestion, loss of sight, hearing, and other senses,
the ''lean and slippered pantaloon.*' Especially is the
beneficial action of medicines more difficult. ''Old material
is not so soon repaired as new, and do what we may it will
wear out." The hidden pit-£Edls were "multiplied and
lay closer together towards the end of the arches that were
entire. There were, indeed, some persons, but their
number was yery small, that continued a kind of hobbling
march on the broken arches, but fell through one after
another, being qvite tired and spent toith so long a walk.''
In this sad picture of the infirmities of age there are not
unfrequently three redeeming features: one intellectual,
one moral, and one religious. Of the mental condition I
haye just now read this, in a letter of a man aged eighty-
three : " I am the old man . . . but, with the exceptiou
of great dea&ess, haye all my fiiculties as before. Indeed,
I can enter into what I read better than I eyer did, see
into the pros and cons of an argument, and the abundant
fallacies and misleadings of much popular writing." Of
the moral character, it is sufficient to quote the sacred
words: " The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found
in the way of righteousness." And of the Christian's hope,
that his body of weakness and humiliation, though like a
grain of wheat, " it is sown in dishonour, it will be raised
in glory."
Tl.—Sex.
" So God created man in His own image ; male and
fsmale created He them. And God blessed tiiem." For it
was not good for man to be alone, eyen in paradise ; but
it is good for man to be manly, and for woman to be
womanly, all the world oyer. There is no interchange pos-
sible between the strength to labour in the one, and the
beauty to charm in ihe other. They are bound together by
loye. They can neyer be set up together on a pedestal of
SSS^S^Tia^ PBEDI8P08ITION. 141
imifonnity and equality. All such schemes have upon their
fore-front the impress of folly, and carry with them the
necessity of fiEdlare. It is obvioas that these physical dif-
ferences between men and women must be accompanied by
differences in their predisposition to diseases. An obser-
yant physician soon becomes aware of these distinctions, and
of their importance to him in practice. There are ailments
common to both sexes, as those of the respiratory, digestiye,
and locomotive organs ; there are some pecnllar to men ;
and there are many peculiar to women. It mnst suffice
here to remark that there is scarcely any ailment of woman
oyer which her feminine nature does not exercise an
influence, which can never be safely overlooked by her
physician. When diseases do come, men are much more
nervous about them than women, and women have much
more endurance of them than men ; so that a disease
which will kill a man in a few weeks will often be borne
by a woman for months or years. Some medical men
think that there are drugs specially adapted to the diseases
of men, and others to those of women ; certainly there are
many drugs admirably fitted to cure the ailments peculiar
to women. It is not wise to try to ignore or to level,
either in health or in sickness — ^in proving drugs in health,
or in prescribing them in disease— the distinctions between
the sexes* Man and woman are each superior in their own
situation, and their only rivalry should be that of affection,
and devotion to their respective duties, which are different
and often quite distinct. We cannot wish for our fellow-
creatures any happiness in this life greater than that every
man should have his own wife, and every woman her own
husband, and that they should fear Grod and love one
another. Marriage makes them one : but for our present
purpose they are widely separated.
Vn. — Previous Diaeoies,
We are very ignorant. The influence which diseases
have upon predisposition is very great; but in such
different directions that we are made to feel our ignorance
of its manner of acting very impressively. Illnesses such
as measles, scarlet-fever, small-pox, whooping cough, leave
sn immunity behind them so well established that it is
known that subsequent exposure to their causes seldom
takes effeet^ • On the eontrary^ attacks of such diseases as
ague, and the various kinds of inflammation, leave an-
142 PBBDisposmoN. ^'feSSr^EfWS*
BfBTisv, Mir. 1* 18B1.
incieafied liability to fresh attacks from exposiue to their
caases. A^psin, there are other diseases^ as typhoid feyer,
which, irithont leaying the snflbrer more liable to a second
attack, often gire his constitotion a shook from which it
does not thoronghly reooyer. He is reduced to a lerel of
life's energy lower than that on which he stood before this
first attack. These bets are important. That they are
not tamed to more practical aoconnt than they are, arises
from our ignorance. We know nothing of their caases, nor
of their connection with the phenomena to which they are
fonnd attached. Whooping congh and bronchitis touch
each other on more than one side ; their seat must be yery
much the same; their kind, as iiu as we know this,
seems to be similar, though differing in regard to the presence
or absence of spasm ; and yet the first belongs to the class
of diseases which proye protectiye from further recurrences,
while the second belongs to the class in which the predis-
position to repetitions of similar attacks is intensified. We
consider a child who has had scarlet-fey^, or measles, or
whooping cough, safe fiiom a repetition of these, though
liying in their presence. We say that an old man, who
has had his first attack of bronchitis, ought to be more
careful than before, not to expose himself to the causes of
it : but as yet we haye learned scarcely anything besides
from these fi&cts. There is much room for further obser-
yation, experiment, and discoyeiy, here.
The most serious heritage left us by a former illness is
a morbid change in the structure of the organs in which
the ailment has been seated, and which we call organic
disease. For example : It frequently happens that rheu'^
matic feyer leayes behind it disease of the heart ; this adds
seriously to the danger and difficulty of cure of a sub-
sequent attack of rheumatism. The legacy bequeathed by
some illnesses consists in an unhealthy condition of the
blood. Typhoid feyer is an example of this formidable
eyil. To Imow that titanivm is a good remedy for this
condition of the blood is something to be thaukfol for.
The study of preyious disease leads to the examination
of indiyidual organs. This, again, reminds us that each
organ has its own mode of Ufe, its own kind of inflamma-
tion, its own manner of healing, and its own predisposi-
tions. This is a yast subject, and would reward- tha
deyotion of a life to its elucidation. It cannot be entered
upon further in this Essay.
itSii^SST^^ PBBDISPOSITION. 143
.1*
VJJI. — Previmis Medication.
The time is still in my memory when patients were so
saturated with dmgs that these would mi^e their way out
of them throogh the skin ; when guineas and gold watches
would be ooatod with mercury and take on a hue which
suggested that a oonjuror had been reyersing the dreams of
tiie alchymists ; when wet sheets wrapped round the body
would show, on being taken off, many of the colours of the
rainbow. Notwithstanding the remonstrances of Syden-
ham, patients have continued to suffer grieyously from the
prodi^dity with which medicines have been given them.
It may be hoped, but it is not to be expected, that such
destructive treatment has been discarded for ever. Indeed,
exoessiye treatment with drugs is still, to some extent,
going on, and predisposition is affected by their presence
in the body. A few years ago Dr. Butherford Bussell told
me of some eases he had had in whom salivation had been
produced by exceedingly small doses of mercury. I sug-
gested to Mm that this effect might have been caused by
meieury previously taken in large doses. He said : ''I
have never thought of that." Drugs may be taken till the
organs on which they act become intolerant of them, so
that very small doses will produce an exaggerated effect.
On the otiier hand, others may be taken till they have
scarcely any effect. In the old school it is well known
that opiates cease to procure sleep, stomachics to keep up
the appetite, purgatives to open the bowels, tonics to give
strength. And in the new school it is found that those
who take medicines in small doses too frequently blunt
their edges, so that the good effects at first experienced
can no longer be obtained. This is specially the case with
domestic treatment, where medicines are spoilt by being
taken too often, and by several being taken quickly one
after another. Some years ago a lady called upon me for
advidB. She told me her story, the latter part of it being
a triumphant narrative of all the remedies she had given
herself. She had taken her box of medicines three times
round. I said : ''I am very sorry, but I am not able to
preseribe for you." The lady rose up in great indignation.
" What do you mean ? Am I going to die ? " '^No, you
are not going to die ; you have taken the medicine which I
think would have cured you, and you have so blunted its
edge by mixing it with others that if I gave you it now it
144 PBEDifflposmoK. *fei2S.lK"??±'
Beriew, Mv. 1, IflBl.
would fail, and we both should be disappointed." When
care is taken not to abuse a medicine in this manner, it
seems never to lose its effect. My first experiments in
homoeopathy were upon myself. I had suffered for many
years, as many medical men do, firom indigestion. PuUor
UUa benefited me surprisingly, and it has continued to do
so, whenever it has been needed, for thirty years ; it seems
to be as efficacious now as it was at first. Previous medi-
cation, then, is a matter to be inquired into in the exami-
nation of patients, if we would, as fiir as possible, escape
disappointment.
IX. — Present Disease.
Enough has now been said on the patient and his pre-
dispositions to render it possible to draw some conclusions;
but before doing this it seems necessary to say a few words
on the patient's present disease. When any one consults
a physician, he expects to receive an answer to three
questions : First, he wishes to know what his ailment is?
Next, to know what are the probabilities of his recovery ?
And then, what can be done to cure him ? The thoughts
which have been gathered up in this Essay are the preUmi-
nary information ; the physician must now proceed to the
present position of the case before him ; he has to make
his diagnosis.
The older method has been to discover, if possible, the
internal morbid condition, as well as to notice the outward
expression of this condition by symptoms. When we have
Hahnemann and his followers to deal with, we are at once
brought face to feuse with a great contradiction. They say
the symptoms are sufficient, we have only to make a correct
inventory of them ; and when we have found a corresponding
inventory of symptoms in the provings of a drug, we have
the remedy. This difficulty has been considered in former
Essays, but it continues, and deserves notice again. (1)
If a comparison of the symptoms of disease and of drug is
all that is required, there is no need for a medical profession;
a layman by taking pains may leam to do this quite as well
as a doctor. (2) Ajiswers to two of the patient's questions
cannot be given, for neither diagnosis nor prognogis are
possible. (8) To escape this dilemma it is now allowed
l^at, pathology is necessary. ''I fully agree," says
I>r« Harmar Smith,.the. latest advocate of Hahnemann's
JS^fSSTBo!^ PBBDIBPOSITION. 146
methody '' with Dr. Yeldliam as to the valae of pathology in
regard to diagnosis and prognosis ; without it they wonld
not haye a leg to stand npon." Then, if it is the only
basis of these two essential parts of medical knowledge,
there is a manifest fallacy in a '' protest against the nndue
place giren to pathology in its being recognised as the true
basis of therapeutics." * (4.) It is contended that onr
present knowledge of pathology is too imperfect to
constitute this basis. In former Essays it has been replied,
that this is an argument for seeking to imj^roYe our
knowledge, not for refusing to use the knowledge we have ;
and if our knowledge is sufficient as a foundation for
diagnosis and prognosis, it ought to be useful for
therapeutics. Until our pathological knowledge is more
perfiact, it may be remembered that an anatomical
basis of therapeutics has been recommended. If there
are morbid actions of which we do not yet know the
nature, we may generally find out where they are going on.
(5) May I point out that there are two things which should
always be distinguished — ^pathological theory and patho*
logical fact. (6) Homooopathists, who try to be patho-
logists, are placed in a great dilemma — Hahnemann's
provingB of drugs are simply a record of symptoms. Such
proTings are well adapted to his plan of comparing the
symptoms of the patient with those of the drug ; but they
&il to help the pathologist. It is not possible to learn the
pathological action of drugs from these provings. Even
the anatomical seat of drug action cannot be learned with
any certainty from them. For five years I tried to learn
this, but could not. (7) These facts show that the pro-
posal made by Dr. Yeldham in his Presidential Address at
the Leeds Congress (1880), for a committee to be appointed
to purge the Mai^eria Medica of Hahnemann of useless
symptoms would be a great mistake ; it is not practicable,
and even if, by immense labour, it could be done, it would
be a failure. Dr. Yeldham insists upon the necessity of
pathology; while making his proposition he must have
forgotten that the symptoms in Hahnemann's Materia
Mediea, so far from being connected with the pathological
conditions which cause them, are of set purpose detached
from them. In another sense, also, the eflort would be a
failure — the symptoms, as given in the provings, are not
* MojUMh Homaopatlik lUvUw for Deoomber, 1880*
Ko. 3, YoL 25. i.
146 PBEM8P081TI0N. "SS&^iKJTSS'
BeriBW, Mar. 1, IflBL
connected wiih doses ; and so the contraiy action of larger
and smaller doses wonld neither be illnstrated nor refuted.
Neither Organopathy nor Antipraxy can rest for their sup-
port upon the provings of Hahnenuum. (8) It follows
that new proTings are a pressing necessity — who will
undertake them? Experiments on living animals can
neyer be successfully substituted for them. Besides other
weighty objections to these experiments, the considerations
which occupy this Essay reveal an insurmountable diffi-
culty. If the variations in predisposition are such an
important element in the study of the action of drugs, as
we have now seen them to be, the enormous differences in
the anatomy, physiology, and habits of life of dogs, cats,
rabbits and frogs, as compared with ourselves, must throw
the whole subject of experiments with animals into inex-
tricable and hopeless confusion.
The best knowledge we can get of the patient himself,
his antecedents and predispositions, both as to the structure
and functions of the various organs of his body, and also of
the state of his mind ; and then of his present malady,
should be sought by us. To this should be added our
knowledge of remedies ; and all this knowledge should be
turned to account in the replies given to the three questions
our patient wishes to ask us.
Conclu9ians.
From the data given in this paper several important con-
clusions may be drawn; among them are the following: —
1. Predisposition can exist only when life is added to
an organised body. This necessity is universal. Life
varies in energy; hence the first cause of the variety
of predispositions.
2. Predisposition can exist only when an organised
body is added to life. Organization varies in each
individual; hence the second cause of the variety of
predispositions.
8. Predisposition is universal; i.e., common to the
human fiEunily. It may be recognised in each person
as the same property; nevertheless, it differs in each
individual.
4. Predisposition is local ; i.e., each organ has its own
predispositions ; and each has its own variations. To the
SsS^STH?" a bboobd. 147
Bifimr.lfar. 1,1881.
science of the anatomy of each organ, and. to the sciences
of Hs physiology and pathology, mast be added the science
of its predispositions.
5. Predisposition is one cause of the local action of the
exciting causes of disease. The varions ailments produced
in different persons by exposure to the same degree of cold,
B8 noticed in an early part of this paper, is a sufficient
illustration,
6. Predisposition is one cause of the heal action of
drugs. For example : belladonna will give one person a
headache, another inflamed eyes, another a sore throat,
another a scarlet rash. It is often said that the provings of
a drug by one person will not give its entire action ; the
reason is that the exciting cause may remain the same, but
if the predisposing causes vary, the results wiU differ. The
cause of the local action is not inherent in the drug alone,
but is shared by the predisposition.
Rugby,
Dec. 80, 1880.
A RECORD OP TWENTY CASES TREATED ON
THE PBINCIPLE OF HAHNEMANN'S LAW
OF SIMILARS.
By John H. Clarke, M.D.
CConchtdedfrom page 95. J
Case XV.
Cardiac Disease. Aneurism (?) — Spigelia 8.
In this case the symptoms pointing to the presence of
thoracic aneurism induced me to give baryta carbonica in
the first instance, as Dr. Flint's case had been recently
published, although I did not follow him in the preparation
used.
As this failed to give relief, nux vom. was prescribed as
corresponding to the general state. This, however, failed
also to reach the root of the disease ; and then spigelia was
given with inunediate and marked benefit. The giddiness
on motion, palpitation on exertion, with breathlessness and
choking sensation, depending on deficient innervation of
148 A BBcoBD. "^^fsarss.
1 1 — ■- - — - - . ■ BB^ ■ I M^ ■ . I-
the heart, the pain at the heart, and nombness of the left
side, were the chief indications for the remedy. Compare
the following from Allen : —
" Q-reat weakness of the body after walking.*' " Sleep-
lessness.'' *'When walking he becomes dizzy." ''Tearing
constriction in the lower part of the chest, above the pit of
the stomach, with oppression; afterwards, also, beneath
the pit of the throat with palpitation." '' Palpitation and
anxious oppression of the chest." '' Violent stitch in the
left side, just beneath the heart."
Aug. 18, 1879. J. B., 87, single ; lath-render ; fair, florid^
shiny weather-beaten-looking complexion ; middle size.
Family history, — Father and brother asthmatical.
Social history. — Has been a hard drinker, but not of late.
Is at present a total abstainer.
Previous health. — Good up till 17 months ago. Says he
was taken ill suddenly '* like a corpse." He was at that
time exceedingly nervous, and afraid above everything to go
to sleep.
Present iUness. — Dates from 12 months ago. It came on
gradually. For 18 weeks past he has been attending the East
Suffolk Hospital as an out-patient, but received no benefit.
He was discharged, and '' relieved " was put on his dis-
charge-paper. This so angered him that it brought on an
attack of palpitation and breathlessness, which compelled
him to sit down for a quarter of an hour before he was able
to proceed home.
He complains of a choking sensation at the throat, and
a smarting pain at the heart. It is worse some days than
others. He has giddiness, headache, and noises in the ears.
There is a constant gnawing pain in the left side of the
chest, and weakness of the left shoulder and arm. He has
palpitation and shortness of breath.
Tongue clean ; bowels confined ; appetite poor ; sleep
bad; pulse feebler right side than left; pupils equal;
sight the same in each eye.
Suspecting aneurism, but having no time to make a
thorough examination, I prescribed baryt, earb. 6 pil. 8 h.
Aug. 20. Not so well. Giddiness and choking very bad.
The only pain he complains of is a dull achmg in the
precordia.
Ea^mination. — ^Both sides of chest resonant ; inspiration
jerky on the right side ; heart sounds somewhat muffled.
£5*?SfrSS* A BBOOBD. 149
B«fi0w, Har. U USl.
bat otherwise nonnal ; left ladiaJ pulse stronger than right.
Tongae clean ; bowels confined. He has nnmbness of the
left aim*
Nux vom. If pil. 1, 8 h.
Ang. 27. Same. Left pupil larger than right. Spigelian.
Sept. 8. Has been a good deal better until to-day.
Took milk for supper last night* To-day breath is short,
and he feels choked ; bowels regular ; appetite has been
better. To have gruel for supper. Bepeat.
Sept. 10. (In my absence he had an attack of diarrhoeai
for which he received china 8.)
Sept. 24. Choking the same ; palpitation better ; can
work much better ; he is not so giddy.
Examination* Bight interscapular space is shade duller
than left. Breath sounds same as before ; also cardiae
sounds ; the first is muffled. Spigelia S, as before.
Oct. 1. Better. Has only had pain once. Breath still
short on extra exertion. He is much stronger than he
was ; appetite very good. He can stay at work all day,
which he has not been able to do for a long time. Bepeat.
Oct. 8. Improving. Bepeat.
Oct. 16. Has no pain ; slight attack of giddiness to-
day ; breath is short. He has been working harder. There
is very little of the choking sensation now. Pulses
stronger ; pupils nearly equal. Bepeat.
He continued to take spigelia till the beginning of this year
(1880), keeping at work all the time, and living a life of com-
fort, '* enjoying his meals " as he had not done for months.
He went away for a holiday at Christmas time, and came
back none the better for it. The fogs tried h;m, and any
mental excitement, more especially anger, was sure to
throw him back. I have not seem him since the 20th of
January, so I presume he has not required attention. At
any rate this much is certain, that from the 27th of August
until the middle of the next January a steady improvement
in all respect took place, attributable only to the action of
tpigelia 8, and that from life being a burden to him, and
work always a trouble, and often broken in upon, he was
enabled to enjoy life and work his full time.
Case XVL
Neuralgia. — Spigelia 8.
The next case is an example of (he action of spigelia on
the sensory nenres.
160 A RECOBD, '^BgSSrfjS^Ttgg!
April 80, 1879.— A. I., 75, sailor. Has had neuralgia
a fortnight* The pain is all down the right side of the
face, affecting the eye. It is worse hy eating.
Tongue clean ; appetite good ; bowels regolar ; mouth
dry in the morning. SpigMa 9, pil i., 8 h.
May 7. Sent word to say that he was greatly relieved,
and was so much better that he had no need to return.
May 21. Has had a little return of the pain. It still
affects the eye, but eating makes no difference to it now.
Bepeat.
He did not return, but I hear he has since been quite
well.
Case XVH.
Axillary abscess. Absorbed without incision or breaking.
Hepar stdph: 6.
Feb. 22, 1879. Mrs. W., 37, hawker. Dark olive
complexion ; thin hair.
She complains of a lump in right arm-pit, which has
been there since the beginning of the winter. It eamc
with the first frost.
Tongue clean. Bowels regular. Gatamenia regular.
She had one child 15 years ago; has had none since.
Her hair fell off when the child was bom. It only lived a
few minutes. Her husband has a fistula. She is always
cold ; suffers from cold feet.
There is a gland the size of a pigeon's egg in the
axilla, hard, tender to the touch, with cord-Uke ducts
proceeding from it upwards and downwards.
Considering the probable syphilitic history, I chose, in
preference to other medicines that specially affecting
glands, mere, iod, 6, pil., 8 h.
Mar. 1. Gland is larger, more painful, softer. She has
no appetite. Sleeps badly.
As there was evidently suppuration going on, and as the
mere. iod. had had no appreciable beneficial effect, I
resolved to give hepar. One of the symptoms of the latter,
given in Allen, is ** The glands in tihe axilla suppurate."
Hepar sulplu 6, pil. 1, 8 h.
March 8. Gland larger and softer. Fluctuation dis-
tinct. Not nearly so tender. Can move arm much more
freely. I advised her to have it opened, but she was quite
pleased with it as it was^ and refusied. Bepeat.
S^lSrS^ A BBOOBD. 151
B0vieir»Mv. l,iast.
March 16. Oland much smaller. Very little pain or
tenderoess. Softer. Bepeat.
Mareh 22. No fluctuation. In place of a single swelling
three separate glands can be felt. There is no tenderness.
Appetite poor. Bowels confined. Bepeat.
March 29. The lump has nearly all gone. Bepeat.
She had no occasion to return. Of the presence of pus
in the swelling I have not the slightest doubt. The
pain soon left after the hepar was given, and the resolution
and absorption of the swelling quickly followed.
Case XVm.
Helminthiasis with fever, simulating pneumonia —
Cina 1.
The following is an acute case, and it might be objected
that it was merely a case of ephemeral fever which would
have subsided of its own accord without medicine of any
kind* This, however, I do not think probable. The symp-
toms of the presence of the parasites were very marked,
even though the chief one — seeing them — ^was wanting.
This, coupled with the speedy disappearance of all the
symptoms under cina, to the pathogenesis of which they
correspond most closely, confirms me in the belief that the
case is a good e^cample of medicinal action.
Oct. 4, 1879. Wm. M., 7. Thin, dark, grey eyes ;
restless. A very active boy. Subject to bilious feverish
attacks.
Family history. — ^Father healthy, but not a strong man,
mother delicate, suffers from chronic bronchitis.
Social histoi-y, — Working people, but decently comfort-
able.
History of attack. — ^Has been ailing a week. Went to
school yesterday, not feeling well; came home ready for
his dinner ; went again in the afternoon, and came home
crying with pain in his side. He was sick in the evening.
His mother gave bim senna. Bowels moved twice. He
was feverish all night, and cried with pain in his side.
I fonnd him complaining of pain in the left side of the
chest round to the back, pain in the left iliac, and lumbar
regions. There is no abdominal tenderness. He can
extend his legs without pain. He has a dry cough.
Tongue dirty white. No appetite. He is veiy thirsty.
Pulse 186, temp. 102.4., reap. 66.
162 A MSCOKD. "g^faSni^
Examination of chesU — ^Bight side is slightly bulged.
There is no dulness either side anteriorly. Posteriorly the
lowest fourth of the left lung is dtQler &an the right, but
there are no moist sounds. The breathing is feeble;
cardiac sounds normal.
I diagnosed pneumonia in the earliest stage> and gave tine.
pho8. 2, 1 h.
Oct. 6. Much the same ; pulse 182, temp. 102.6| resp.
64.
Had a very bad night; coughing and screaming; referring
the pain to several places, principally to the left haunch, and
angles of the lower left ribs. He cannot lie on the left side.
The only physical sign is the dullish patch at the left base,
where the breathing is extremely feeble. There is no
friction.
His nose has bled freely this morning. He was deliiious
in the night.
Tongue white, dry ; bowels not moved.
I now learned from his mother the following additional
facts. For some time past he has been excessively ravenous
for food. It has not been possible to satisfy him. His
sleep has been very restless ; he grinds his teeth. He
picks his nose and bites his finger nails, which are all
painfully short. The bowels are very loose as a rule. His
mother has never seen any worms, but has never had an
opportunity.
Tinct. Cina 1, 1 h.
Oct. 6. Very much better. Pulse 80. Bespiration
quiet and easy. Was better yesterday about 6 p.m.
Remained the same up till then. Had a good night* Has
very little pain. The skin is cool.
Examination. — ^No difference in resonance of the two
sides of the chest can be discovered, and the breathing is
alike in both. Bowels moved yesterday in the evening.
Bepeat.
Oct. 7* Good night. He still coughs, and has pains in
the side when he does so. Tongue clean. Bowels open.
No worms. Physical signs negative. Bepeat.
Oct. 8. Very much better in all respect. Bepeat.
Oct. 10. Well.
Case XIX.
Ulceration of the mouth, salivation, swelling of tongue
(after measles)* — Merc. cor. 6.
SS^STSff* A BBOOBD, 158
.1.
Case XX.
Croup, with ulceration of the monthi &c. (afker meaBles).
Spongia 1. and afterwards mere, eor. 6.
These two cases, which I have bracketed, were in children,
the two youngest — ^8 years, and 16 months respectively — of a
large &mily, the parents being very poor.
Before narrating the cases I wUl make a few extracts
from the pathogeneses of the two principal medicines
employed.
Mercuritis eorr*
" Onms swollen and spongy." " Tongue white, and so
much swollen that he could not protrude it.** '* Swelling
of the Ups, tongue, and throat." '' Severe inflammation
of the mouth and gums, with constant flow of clear water
from the same." " Ulceration of the mouth." " Copious
salivation." "Lips greatly swollen." "Lower lip consider-
ably swollen, and a smaJl blister on the inside of it."
" Lips dry and cracked." " Stiffiiess of the jaws."
Spongia*
" Hoarseness." "Hoarseness increasing so that she can
only speak with difficulty." " Cough and coiyza very
violent." "Difficult respiration, as if a plug were sticking
in the larynx, and the breath could not get through on
account of the constriction of the larynx." " The eyes
suppurate." " Gums swollen and painful." "Accumulation
of saliva."
Case XIX.
Oct. 25, 1879. Frank D., 3. Fair hair, blue eyes.
Has had measles. Has been free from the rash a fort-
night. It left him with ulcerated mouth, which has
gradually been getting worse.
He received the usual domestic treatment of dosing with
" safiron tea."
I foond him sitting in a chair, a pitiable object to look
upon. Face swollen and pale, and wet with tears and
saliva, which are flowing copiously. Comers of the mouth
ulcerated ; also gums. There is a deep crack in the fold
of the chin. There is great foetor from the mouth. The
eyes are sore and bleared looking. He has a cough.
Suspecting cancrum oris, I gave tinct mere. 9oL 6 and
timet, hepar 9ulph. 6 in alternations, the latter more
eqpedallj with a view to contiolliiig the bronebial
iniiation.
164 A BBCOBD. "te2?I?iE'?S5'
Bevlew, Mar. 1, IflBt.
Oct. 26. Much the same. Still salivated. Takes milk
well. Bepeat.
Oct. 27. Is very irritable. Lips swollen. Angles of
mouth deeply fissured, the cracks having thick white
edges. Saliva continues to run from the mouth. Chin
excoriated; under lip ulcerated. Tongue so swollen he
cannot put it out to be examined. No hard spot to be felt
in the cheek.
I now changed the prescription to mere, cor., which I
thought more closely allied in its action to the nature of
the diseasci as both the elements of the drug have a
specific affinity for the buccal mucous membrane, and organs
of the mouth. Tinct. mere. cor. 6, 2 h. A wash of solu*
tion of borax for the mouth.
Oct. 28. Rather better. Not so much salivation.
Chin healing. Can see into the mouth. Inside of lips
ulcerated, but not deeply. Glands in neck enlarged. Not
so feverish. Is very cross. Takes milk well and beef-tea.
Bepeat.
Oct. 29. Had a very good night. He can eat this
morning. Bepeat.
Oct 80. From this time he progressed very rapidly,
receiving no other medicine, and he required no fiirther
treatment after Nov. 1.
Case XX.
Oct. 25, 1879.— Walter D., 16 months, fair.
Was attacked by measles eight days ago. Had a sore
lip before it came on. It left him with sore eyes — one is
now completely closed — with croupy cough, sore mouth and
throat, making swallowing very difficult ; salivation and
nasal catarrh ; face swollen and pale.
I prescribed for him as for his brother, tine. mere.
$oL 6, and tine, hep, 9ulph. 6, 2 h., alt.
Oct. 26. Cough not so bad ; no choking at night ; not
80 oroupy ; mouUi the same ; much foBtor. Bepeat.
Oct. 27. Not so well. Had a bad night with cough and
choking ; mouth the same ; lips more swollen ; very fret-
ful; Ids ory and cough are husky ; he has no proper
voice.
Considering the croup symptoms to be now the most
ui^eent, I gave tine, wpongia 1, 2 h.j borax wash.
Oct. 28. Rather better. Salivation better ; breathing
better ; cough not bo hud^ ; he was nearly sufibcated in
jsst^srrssr a record. us
the night ; he could not get his breath ; is not so peevish ;
takes nulk well. Repeat.
Oct. 29. Had a good deal of choking in the night. Is
sleeping well this merning. Repeat.
Oct. 80. A little better. Repeat.
Oct. 31. Better. Not so choked ; much clear stringy
phlegm has come up ; mouth much better ; lips not so
swollen. Repeat.
Not. 1. Had a very good night. Is yery much better
generally. Repeat.
Nov. 8. Very much better. Oough not so bad ; sleeps
well; takes food better; begins to notice his brothers;
month still sore. Repeat.
Nov. 5. Better. He can cough now (vocally), though
still rather hoarse ; right eye still inflamed ; mouth still
sore. Repeat.
Nov. 7. Much better. Voice has returned, both in cough-
ing and crying. He is still salivated, and the mouth is
still ulcerated. Tinct mere. cor. 6, 8 h.
Nov. 10. Very much better. Mouth nearly well. His mother
finds that he has cut a tooth since he has been ill. Repeat.
Nov. 15. Mouth quite well ; appetite better ; bowels
much confined ; otherwise quite well. For the constipa-
tion I gave him tinet. kali bieh. 6 t. d.
I have cited these two cases in spite of the fact that in
the first instance more than one remedy at a time was
given, as it is only for the action of the single remedies that
I wish them to stand.
When I first saw the children there seemed little hope
of their recovery, at any rate without permanent disfigure-
ment, and the case of the younger was almost desperate.
The remedies to which the disease in the two cases re-
sponded so weU, as will be seen by comparison with the
pathogenesis quoted above, was accurately homcBopathic.
It may be objected in the case of the elder that the borax
wash may have had more to do with the cure than the
mere, cor,, but this, I think, is answered by the fact that
the same thing did not happen in the case of the younger
who was having the borax wash used at the same time, and
who continued to be salivated and suffer from sore mouth
in spite of it, until the mere. cor. was given when the
symptoms speedily disappeared.
16, St. George's Terrace,
aioncester Road, S.W.
166 BRIGHT'8 disease. "S^SS^ifififfl!
■ » ■■ II I I ■ ■■ ■ , I
CLINICAL CASES OP BRIGHT'S DISEASE »
By Lbm¥el E. Williams, M.B.O.S. Eng.
Gentlemen, — In choosing Bright' s disease for the subject
of my paper to-night, I was influenced more by a desire to
open a discussion and to canvass treatment of this impor-
tant class of maladies, than by a conviction that the cases
I have collected present any exceptional or novel character.
It would indeed be difficult to exaggerate the importance of
the persistent presence of albumen in the urine to the
system at large. It may be said to involve the issue of
life or death from its first appearance, and even in the later
stages the permanent well-being of the patient, the vital
integrity of almost every organ, the due performance of
every physiological process of the economy, and the very
nature of its component tissues, I pass over its mere
transient manifestations to consider albuminuria proper —
i.e., an initial pathological change in the structure of the
kidney. It is to Bright that we owe most of our knowledge
of this organ, for where foimerly doubt and chaos reigned,
we see it now occupying a definite and distinct position in
organic disease. Later still, by the aid of the microscope,
the viile et dvlce of diagnostic research, we are enabled to
gain and maintain important information of its successive
structural changes.
The first case that I have to bring to your notice is one
of the acute inflammatory form — desquamative nephritiSi
a scarlatinal sequela. A. E., aged 9, one of four cases of
scarlet fever, exhibited on the twelfth day dropsical symp-
toms. At tiiis time the patient was extremely emaciated
and anaemic, with a scrofulous family history, and unlike
the others, which made rapid recoveries, remained in this
debilitated condition. The skin was harsh, dry, and
rough, persistent and severe frontal headache, no rigors or
chilliness. Tongue dry and cracked, but clean, Appetite
poor. Extreme thirst at times — temp. 101, pulse 180,
quick, hard, and small. Severe shaking cough, with
greenish lumpy expectoration. Occasional nausea and
vomiting. Physical examination showed thick rales at both
bases, and dry harsh breathing at the apices. Bespiration
embarrassed, no dulness. Heart sounds quick, sharp and
somewhat weak, but otherwise normal. There is great
* Bead before the Liverpool Homceopatliic Medioo*OfainB8ieal Bodefy.
ifeS^S??^ bbiott's disease. 157
pnffineBS of fiuse, obliterating entirely the facial character,
and pitting of extremities on pressare. No irregalar abdo-
minal dnlnessy considerable distension, Complains of pain
in the loins. The nrine is very scanty, passing abont 4 oz.
throagh the night — dark smoky colonr with a considerable
red sandy sediment ; sp. gray. 1029 — acid. Heavy smell
and almost solidifies on boiling. Microscope reveals
numerous blood and epithelial cells and casts, with some
crystals of nric acid.
Ordered arsen. 3x. 2 drops every two hours. Patient to
be put between blankets and to have the familiar vapour
bath. Diet exclusively milk- Next morning the patient
was considerably worse. Her appearance was duU, heavy,
and apathetic, and she was inclined to delirium at night.
Has passed no urine for the last ten hours, altogether in
the 24 hours only 2 oz. Some dulness over sides of
abdomen. Skin burning and dry. Pulse 140, respiration
much quickened. Breath sounds at base much fainter
and weaker, and there is evidently less than the normal
resonance on percussion. She is exceedingly prostrate,
inclined to faint on being raised, with severe attacks of
retching after food.
Ordered tereb, 1, 2 drops, and canth. Ix., 2 drops every two
hours in alternation. Poultices to loins, and the vapour
bath, if fainting do not supervene on being raised.
On the following day she was manifestly improved.
Less drowsy and heavy in appearance. Breathing easier
and slower, and stronger on auscultation. Within four
hours of taking the medicine she passed 6 oz. of urine,
and altogether has passed 10 oz. The same medicines
were continued to the sixth day, when the excretion of
urine was almost normal, but it still retained the same
microscopic character and a great quantity of albumen,
considering the increased amount of urine voided. Ar$en.
8x. was then substituted, with milk and meat broth diet.
The nrine continued in excess of the normal amount for
some days, the commencing basic pneumonic symptoms
clearing np, and the urine evidencing not the slightest
trace of albumen on the twelfth day, leaving, I may thus
presmne, the kidney intact, and probably no more than
ordinarily liable to disease.
The next case was similar to the foregoing in its first
stage, but unlike it in that albumen was present in the urine
158 bright's disease. ^SSS^.^S^TSS!
for two monUiSi thus endangering its integrity by threaten-
ing to deyelope into the large white kidney. The orine at
this time exhibited signs that this change had actoally
commenced, the epithelial casts being replaced by granular
ones in some cases, and in addition there was distinct and
increasing ascites, the patient having more than one attack
of bronchitis, and developing an obstinate train of dyspeptic
symptoms. Her general condition indicating a grave
prognosis. The nsual remedies were tried, but failed to
diminish the albumen, or improve the general state of the
patient. Fer. mv/r, B.P. tinct 8 drops every 3 hours was
prescribed, and soon after there was rapid improvment.
The mucous tissues losing their aneemic pallor. Patient
gaining in strength and weight, and the albumen disappear-
ing entirely from the urine, leaving, as far as was then
ascertainable, the heart unaffected.
I cannot say that the iron was given from a conviction
as to its homoBopathicity, but more as an empirical remedy,
though remembering that the condition of the blood is one
of the principal determining and perpetuating causes of
albuminuria, and the extremely ansamic state of thepatienti
there may still remain justification for the treatment pur-
sued.
With respect to the medicines for the treatment of
scarlatinal Bright's disease, arsenicum is generally cre-
dited, I believe, with being the foremost, though I am
inclined to think that terebinih, or terebinth and cantkarie
are superior to it in the acute condition, when we have the
function of the Malpighian bodies, t.^., the excretion of the
watery part of the urine, held in abeyance, and the tubuli
uriniferi choked with proliferated epithelial cells— condi-
tions fraught with evil consequences to the system at large.
It is here that terebinth is best calculated to do the one
thing needful for the safety of the patient — restore the
excretory power of the kidney. In estimating, too, the
relative value of arsen., tereb, and canth. the time that each
takes to affect the kidney is a point of some importance,
and it will be found that, whilst the two latter act immedi-
ately and specifically on the kidneyi arsen. seems to act
somewhat doubtfully at first, at one time producing excessive
urination, at another diminution, or even in rarer cases not
affecting it at all until near death, yet nevertheless in the
later stages of slow poisoning producing a condition closely
resembling chronic Bright's disease ; furthermore, hsema-
SSSSJfiKTiS^ bmght'b disease, 169
tnria and a state of stnpor are commonly oTidenced after
terebintii, whilst the mind generally remains clear in arse-
nical poisoning almost to death, and hsBmaturia is only
occasionally indnced. If we compare the symptoms,
which may be said to be an index, as it were, of the diseased
state of the kidney, we shonld still find that the symptom-
atology of terebinth closely resembles an acute attack of
Bright's.
One other remedy, apis, greatly praised by some for its
good effects, I have found somewhat uncertain in its action
where scarlatina has been the predisposing cause of the
nephritis, though in an attack after measles, where the
subject was a flabby, transparent-skinned boy, and where
the urine was diminished but not suppressed, I have seen
it act well.
My next case is one of acute Bright's disease, resulting
from exposure and wet. I was called in to see the patient
in the evening and found the pulse 120, temp. 102, and
complaining of great chilliness. He had had a thorough
wetting the previous day whilst driving a van. He seemed
a fairly nourished and healthy man, about 85, and as far as
I could ascertain not addicted to drinking. There is one
point in connection with these cases resulting from cold of
some interest, viz., the well-marked rigors, or at least series
of chills that distinguish the invasive stage, whereas in
post-scarlatinal dropsy I have not been able to obtain the
history of a rigor, and at most have not noticed more than
a slight chilly the patient seeming to lapse suddenly from a
state of debility to one of dropsy, evidenced at first by a
smoky tint of the urine, or perhaps a slight puffiness of the
Hds or legs ; and herein we may possibly search for an
explanation of those cases where Bright's disease has
succeeded scarlet fever, when there was no possibility of
patient having taken cold, the kidney condition being more
or less an integral part of the fever, and due directiy to the
infective process of the disease itself*
To resume the patient's present state. The skin was
dry and hot. Tongue clean and cracked, with desire for
cooling drinks. Severe pain in forehead. Appetite poor,
with occasional nausea. No abdominal dropsy or tender-
ness. Mind quite conscious. Physical examination of the
chest revealed dry harsh breathing, reminding one of Stoke's
stage of pneumonia. Breathing laboured and quickened but
160 bbight'b wsbasb. ^feSfe.^SE?'?^!
BtffiBW, Jfar. 1, lan.
no pain or congh. Heart sonnds qnick bot healthy. No
abnormal cardiac duhiess. Urine was scanty with thick
sediment, but no decided signs of blood — complains of no
pain in back. The fsMse has a natural appearance, with,
perhaps, some pnffiness of the lids, and the areolar tissue
generally does not show signs of pitting on pressure. I
was doubtful as to the further deyelopment of the case, but
decided to giye aconite 1, every two hours, and to examine
the urine, me clear supernatant part of which I found to
have a smoky tint, and on boiling to deposit a considerable
sediment of albumen. At next moming*s visit patient had
passed a &irly comfortable night, but showed decided
dropsical signs about the face and body generally. He now
complained of great heat and thirst, and the urine, voided
more frequently, has still the same character: less sediment,
but darker in colour. Ordered an exclusively milk diet,
poultices to loins, and terebinth 1 in alternation with the
aconite, every two hours. Continued thus to the third day,
when the aconite was dropped. On the eighth day pulse
had fallen to 100, temp, to 99. Excretion of urine has in-
creased to normal, but is still highly albuminous. Intellect
continues clear, and dropsical state greatly decreased.
There is loose cough, with moist rales at both bases.
Gave areen, 3x every three hours. He continued improving
till the nineteenth day, when the albumen had disappeared
from the urine entirely, and only ansemia and debility
remained, the heart being then intact.
I have next to record one other case of acute Bright's
disease occurring in a young mau, aged 21 — John C.
Patient is a stout, flabby subject, the tissues nevertheless
being very anaemic. There is general dropsy of the areolar
tissues, with pitting on pressure over the whole surface,
and in addition considerable ascites. Great dyspnoea.
Tongue dried and furred, white at the edges. Severe
shalang cough, with tough yellow expectoration. Increased
thirst. No appetite. Great debility and depression of
spirits, with palpitation. Mind lethargic. Physical ex-
amination— heart, distinctly hypertrophic, having the
peculiar upheaving action, and increased area of dnlness
and impulse. First sound at the apex disguised by
murmur. Second well accentuated. At aorta first sound
is sharp. Lungs markedly emphysematous. Thick r&les
over whole chest area. Urine, less than normal quantity,
acidi sp. gr. 10.18, clear, albuminous, with epithelial
ti^y^TS^ bbight's disease. 161
and £atty casts. Arsen. 8x. was given for seven days,
with milk diet and vapour baths. The bronchitis then
became so severe as to demand exclusive treatment,
and kali bic. 8x. was prescribed with slight benefit.
Patient's state continuing critical, on consultation iodium 1
and beli, 1 were substituted, the condition of the throat
demanding the latter remedy. These were continued till
the bronchitis had almost cleared up, and at a further
consultation terebinth 1 was administered with a view of
treating the dropsical condition. There was slight general
improvement after this medicine had been given for three
weeks, more as regards the dropsy than the kidney itself.
He soon, however, relapsed into a worse state — the
bronchitis returning with orthopnoBa, the legs becoming
infiltrated and inflamed^ and the heart causing great distress.
Arsen, was again given, with phoa., kali bick, and kreos. as
intercurrent remedies, for chest and dyspeptic symptoms,
and he again rallied a littie, but it soon became a hopeless
struggle against the secondary complications of the malady,
patient succumbing at the end of four months from an
attack of apoplexy.
The previous history of the case points to an acute attack
of Bright's disease, sinking into a chronic state, and the
danger of another acute attack supervening, when the heart
is hypertrophied, the lungs emphysematous, the blood in a
watery and ansemic state, and the function and structure of
the Udney so much embarrassed and altered. It points,
too, a moral at the mischief that may accrue from neglect
to clear up an acute attack, patient undoubtedly being one of
those cases where a latent disease of the kidney had con-
tinued for three years unsuspected and undetected.
My next case is one of chronic desquamative Bright's
disease. There were a variety of complaints preceding this,
but it will be sufficient if I describe his condition at the
onset of the Bright's disease.
George W., aged 55, much exposed on the river as a
superintendent of mail steamers. His proportions are very
bulky, weighing nearly 19 stone. Has a somewhat pale
appearance with occasional epistaxis. Complains of severe
dyspncea, prsdcordial pain, palpitation, and cardiac anxiety.
Severe shaking cough — exciting the heart violentiy, with
greenish purulent expectoration. Tongue furred, yellow at
back, clew in front. Vomiting at times, especially after
No. S, Vol 25. u
162 bbiott's dibbasb. ^^^^JS!TSt.
cough. No great thirst. Abdomen almost pendulous,
with exceeding tenderness over the whole area. Bowels
irregular, mostly costive, but occasionally the stools are
dark, loose, and billons. The face is pnffed at times,
mostly limited to eyelids. Legs are swoUen, with skin
erythematous and intensely burning. Complains of seyere
shooting pains in both limbs. In this case as in theotiiers
the eye and sight were unaflfected. There is no chest dul-
ness. Expiration much prolonged. Inspiration is slow
and laboured, owing in some measure to abdominal en-
largement. No increased area of dulness of the liyer is
discernible. Numerous moist bubbling rales over the
whole thoracic region. The heart's impulse is seen over
a large area, extending outside the nipple line. Distinct
systolic thrill at the apex. Dulness increased with violent
upheaving action at times. Sounds at the apex flapping and
valvular — murmur with the first. Every fourth beat inter-
mits. Aortic first sound has distinct murmur, second
sound sharp and accentuated. Urine, sp. gr. 10.18, less
than the normal quantity, acid, albuminous, and showing
granular and waxy casts under the microscope.
Are. 3x. and digiU Ix., every three hours alternately,
were given. Some relief of dyspncea followed, but the
patient is still unable to lie down. Condition otherwise
is unchanged. Twenty days later, in consultation, ordered
tereb> 1 and phos. 3x- every three hours in alternation.
These were continued for several weeks but patient con-
tinued to get worse: The bronchitis with orthopnoea still
persisted, the pains in the limbs at times seemed agonising,
the legs became infiltrated with serum, with deep pitting
on pressure as high as the loins and abdomen.
Infm. digit. B.P. 5 i and kali hydriod. iii grs* every three
hours, in alternation, were prescribed in consultation.
Great relief to heart and pains immediately followed these
remedies, and in three days the inflammation and dropsy
completely collapsed, culminating and focussing, as it
seemed, in upwards of twelve large abscesses about the
legs and buttocks which continued to discharge pus for
many weeks afterwards. One other circumstance was re-
markable, viz. : that whereas patient was not able to lie
down for three months, he could now lie in bed without
complaining of the extreme dyspnoea. The heart's action
was much more decided, and the lungs were almost free
of rales. Sleep, which had been short and broken, was
ISS^iSnfMw!*' bright's disease. 168
now heavy and contintions, the breathing at times being
almost stertorous. Great debility, and a sallow dnsl^
appearance of the skin. Appetite poor. Tongne has a
£rty white for. Depression and torpor of mind.
Ordered morph. aeet. 8x. every three hours, a pint of
Borgondy and milk and meat broth ad libitufriy and char-
coal ponltices to the abscesses. I may mention that for
the previous forty days he had taken nothing but skim
mOk and hard biscuits. He gradually gained strength,
and after a further course of mere, eor., arsen,, tereb., and
acid, nitf there only remained a slight trace of albumen.
The last type of Bright's disease to which I have to refer
is the granular kidney. It has been and is still a subject
of dispute as to its nature. By Johnson it is said to begin
in the epithelial cells of the tubes. By others to be the
ultimate development of the large white kidney, but the
most received opinion is that it is a disease aui generis^
consisting at first of a prolification of the interstitial fibrous
tissues, and its subsequent contraction, being thus analogous
to cirrhosis of the liver. With regard to its causation we
have it occurring under different circumstances. At one
time as a degenerative change in gout or lead-poisoning, at
another secondary to some heart affection, and at another
beginning as a primary disease in the kidney itself.
Mrs. F., the case under consideration, consulted me for
dyspepsia of tbree months' standing. She is 40 years of
age, with menses irregular as to time and quantity^ Has
a peculiar sallow complexion not at all like the pasty
appearance of a common Bright's case. Considerable
wasting of flesh, but the most prominent symptoms for
which she seeks relief are extreme debility, nausea and
vomiting, complete loss of appetite, severe frontal headache,
pain and weight over liver, and fulness at epigastrium after
food. Abdomen distended with flatus ; tongue clean and
bright ; dryness of mouth ; great depression of spirits ;
dyspnoea and palpitation on the slightest exertion. No
history of gout or intemperate habits. Not the slightest
trace of dropsy of areolar tissue. Was thrown from a cab
three months before, and dates her illness from this time.
Physical examination reveals no heart hypertrophy or
murmurs, but sounds are sharp, weak, and quick. No liver
enlargement. Respiratory organs fairly healthy. No cough
or sputum. Vision and retina were not affected at this
164 bmght'b disbasb- ^ft^.^c^??!«!
period. I at first thought I had to do with a case of atonic
dyspepsia, and a train of climacteric tronbles, bat on
examining the urine I found it albuminous, copious, acid^
10.14, with a few epithelial cells, but no casts under the
microscope. Gave acid nit. 1 x every three hours. Patient
was somewhat better of the dyspeptic symptoms at the end
of ten days, and arsen. 8 x was then given for the increasing
exhaustion, and continued for three weeks, with some im-
provement, but recognising the incurability of the case, and
the supposed benefit of change of air, I advised her to go
away. She continued better for awhile, but I hear has
lately died. Important points in these cases are their
insidious nature, and the predominance of misleading
symptoms. Barely is there any dropsy present, and albu-
men sometimes is not present in the urine, especially in
the later stages, patient usually first complaining of dys-
peptic symptoms, though, on the other hand, these symp-
toms may obtain only in the later stages.
Exception will probably be taken to the strength of the
medicines used in these cases. They were giyen with a
preconception that such pronounced pathological states
required more or less material dosage, and with the con-
viction that they were capable of reproducing similar states.
Action and reaction may be said to be convertible forces,
and although I have had no experience with remotely
reduced remedies, I question their curative reactionary
influence over a congested or large white kidney, for it
could only be by some species of divine afflatus — something
savouring of supernaturalism. It is not, I think, by the
administration of medicines fearfully and wonderfally made,
not by treating varying mental foibles — ^miscalled symptoms,
not by formulating theories, of which there is no analogy
in nature, either in the heaven* above, or in the earth
beneath, but by the relative recognition of subjective and
objective signs and states, by the assimilation and utilisa-
tion of allied sciences, that we are to look for the more
intelligent advancement of homceopathy.
In concluding this recital of clinical cases, I have to
claim your indulgence for the manifold imperfections of my
first essay at paper writing, and can only trust that, like
the hone, it may give an edge to the discussion, though it
has none itself.
54, Boscommon Street, Liverpool.
R^SS'f^M^ HYPBRiEMIA OF BRAW. 165
ON HYPEREMIA OP THE BRAIN.*
By D. Dtge Bbown, M^A., M.D., one of the Physidans to
, the London Homodopathio Hospital.
Gentismen, — ^In commencing the study of [disuses of
the brain and nerves, the subject which naturally comes
first for consideration is hypersBmia of the brain, and its
opposite state, anaemia. I shall first take up the former,
hyperemia.
In former days, it was supposed that such conditions as
hypersBmia and anaBmia could not exist ; that from the fact
of the brain being enclosed in an air-tight incompressible
case, any excess or defect in the quantity of the blood
flowing to and through the brain was a physical impossi-
bility.
I do not waste time by recounting the arguments for this
belief. Suffice it to say that it has of late years been
amply proved to demonstration that the conclusions referred
to were mistaken, and that the braiu, as well as any other
organ in the body, may suffer from excess or diminution in
the quantity of blood in it, and supplying it.
Here I may premise that, when I speak of hyperaamia, I
do not intend this to be understood as synonymous with
inflammation, which will be treated of afterwards. The
condition now to be spoken of is one where for various
reasons there is an excess of blood-flow over the normal
quantity, producing symptoms which often give rise to
anxiety, and even danger, but are yet not inflammatory.
There are two varieties of hypersBmia of the brain: 1,
active or arterial congestion ; and 2, passive or venous con-
gestion.
According to the plan I have for some time pursued, in
order to save time and get over the whole ground of this
course, I refer you to any good book on practice of medicine,
for the causes of hypereBmia, for the anatomical appearances,
and for the symptoms which are usually present in such
cases, confining myself here to the homoBopathic treatment.
It is, however, important, and most interesting, from a
therapeutic point of view, to remember that the symptoms
of hyperasmia and those of anaemia have a remarkable simi-
larity to one another, as you will see clearly if you study a
* Being part of a conrseof leotores on *' Practice of Medicine/* delivered
al the Iioiidon S^ool of Homooopathy.
166 HYPBRiEMIA OF BKAIN. ^'SSSrjE??^!
description of ihe symptoms of each state in, for example,
Niemeyer. He says : ** It is often asserted that the symp-
toms of cerebral hypenamia are very similar to, or identical
with those of cerebral aniemia ; this is tme in regard to
congestive hyperemia and anaemia, and the explanation of
the correspondence is easy. In both cases the brain lacks
its new snpply of arterial blood. To explain the symptoms
of paralysis (of brain fdnction) occurring in fluxionary (or
congestive) hypersemia also, we must take the hypothesis
that, during its course, there is a secondary oedema of the
brain, as a result of which we have capiUary anaemia, a con-
dition directly opposite to the original hypersemia."
Wo find then, in practice, that this similarity of symp-
toms between the two opposite conditions renders it, in
certain cases, by no means easy to say positively that the
symptoms depend on the one or the other condition, and
we can only make a diagnosis, with anything like certainty,
by observing the whole condition of the symptoms of the
patient.
For this reason, then, it is unsafe to prescribe on our
theory of the case being one of hyperaemia or anaemia ; but
we must select a medicine which corresponds to the totality
of symptoms presented by the case, or to the patient's con-
dition as a whole, and not with reference solely to the
brain-symptoms:
These remarks will account for my speaking occasionally
of hyperaemia of the brain, ''or what we believe to be
such."
The first medicine which will occur to us in the treat-
ment of cases of hyperaemia of the brain is Aconite. My
remarks in former lectures as to the value of €u:onite in
active hyperaemia occurring in almost every organ of the
body, will lead you at once to suppose that it pre-eminently
meets those cases of hyperaemia of the brain where, from
the symptoms present, there can be no doubt as to the
diagnosis. Let us first look at the cerebral symptoms of
this medicine. The prover feels a confused, muddled
feeling, with vertigo and sensation as if he would fall, with
severe nausea accompanying this, and occasionally black-
ness appearing before the eyes. The vertigo is worse on
stooping. The head feels hot, heavy, as if bound tightly,
or going to burst, — or full and throbbing. This may be
felt all over the head, or only in the forehead, or even
more in one or other side. Black spots are seen before
B^flSTTSa!^ HTPBB-BMIA OF BBAIN. 167
ihe eyes, vision beoomes indistinot, and the light is
disagzeeable. The face feels hot — all in a glow, and the
skin is flashed ; there are noises or roaring in the ears,
and senaitiTenesB to noise.
The mental symptoms vary — ^with oonfasion of thought,
mnddled feeling, general restlessness and uneasiness,
firetfol irritability or anxiety, and pre-eminently with fear
of deatli. There is marked variability in the mental mood,
which passes from one state to the opposite.
We find thirst, coating of the tongae, headache, &;c.,
worse after a fiill meal, and after stimulants ; the heart
beats loudly and tumultuously, thumping on the chest
walls; the pulse is full, tense, and quick, or easily
quickened. The bowels may or may not be costive, the
former usually. At night ike same reeUesinesB ia present.
The feeling of heat and feverish fulness in head and body
causes difficulty in getting to sleep, and a restless state of
tossing about ; and when sleep comes it is dreamful and
uneasy. Very often there is twitching or starting during
sleep.
Such a condition points unmistakably to decided
hypersamia of the brain, and aconite consequently is of
great service in this state, as when it arises, for example,
from heart disease, when the hypertrophy is more than
compensatory. It is less indicated, but still is of use, in
certain cases of hypertrophy of the right heart and its
consequences ; but, as I say, less frequently in this form
than in hypertrophy of the left heart. Then, again, in
cases of so-called plethoric states of body, fulness of
habit, especially when kept up by over eating, and drinkiDg
of stimulants. It is very useful also in the results of over-
worked brain, where these symptoms are more or less
present, and in which the exact condition of the brain
— ^anasmic or hypersBmio — is not quite clear. Likewise in
the congestion of the head in women, in whom the cata-
menia have suddenly ceased, or failed to appear, or at the
menopause.
In such cases the higher as well as the lower dilutions
act well. Excellent results are obtained by the 12tb, the
8rd, or the let. It is not necessary, or perhaps even
desirable, to go lower than the 1st centesimal. You will
see that it is in active hypersBmia, rather than in passive,
that aconite is indicated ; restlessness at night, and fear of
death, being prominent indications.
168 HTPEB£HIA OP BBAIK. ^'a^jSS^ifMw!
Our sext medicine in point of importance is BeUadanna^
Perhaps no medicine in the PharmacopcBia has such a
marked power of cansing cerebral hypersBmia as belladonna^
and consequently it is tiie medicine next to aconite, or oy^i
before aconite, which is most used in such cases*
In the pathogenesis, we find much heat and fnhiess of
the head ; a feeling as of rash of blood to the head, with
vertigo, and great headache: The headaidie may be all
oyer the head^ or in the forehead, or in both temples, and
feels throbbing or bursting, or as if the contents of the skull
would be forced out of the forehead, or as if it were bound
tightly. The face is flushed, the eyes are congested, or feel
sandy; they ache and throb, aud are painful to touch.
Light and sound are especially painful. The pupils are
either dilated or contracted ; in well-marked active
hyperflemia, they are contracted, while in depressed nervous
conditions, exhibiting similar symptoms, they are dilated.
There is an excitable, restless state of mind, the excite-
ment may be even so great as almost to approach to mania,
with hallucinations or illusions of the senses. The mood
is irritable as well as excitable ; the prover feels cross, and
easily put out, and there is confusion of thought, and ina-
bility to follow one train of ideas.
Usually there is palpitation, with full and quick pulse, and
throbbing is felt all over the body. The tongue is dry and
red, or coated with red papillaB showing through it ; with
thirst, and dryness of mouth and throat, loss of appetite,
and constipation. At night the prover feels a drowsy sen-
sation (which is also present by day), with inability to sleep,
&om a restless, hot, feverish, or excited feeling. When
sleep occurs, it is restless, uneasy, dreamful (the dreams
being frightful), and unrefreshing. He starts at night,
wakes in a fright, or with a start, and seems unconscious
for a few minutes, or talks in his sleep. These last symp-
toms are very common in children.
You will thus see that like aconite, beUadonnu is
markedly indicated in those cases of active hyperffimia
where the general appearance and symptoms of the patient
leave no doubt as to the nature of the case, whether pro-
duced by mental excitement, heart disease, acute amenor-
rhoBa, or at the menopause. It is also as clearly indicated in
cases where the exact pathological condition is not so
evident, but where such symptoms as have been described
are present. Thus in many febrile disorders, arising from
tS!S^^TS^ HYPBRiEMIA OP BBAIN* 169
general nervoas distturbance or depression, or in an unstable
state of the nervous system, whether arising from uterine
disturbance, or from oyer- work of the brain in children ,
there is perhaps no medicine so generally useful, in all
cases presenting the most or the chief of the symptoms
described, as belladonna.
I must here remind you again, as I have often done
when speaking of other diseases, that it is by no means
necessary for a medicine to be indicated, that we should
find the whole train of symptoms which I describe as
pathogenetic of it, present in any case. We may have a
very severe case, producing an exact picture of the drug in
all points, and we may have a mild one, when the same
medicine is equally indicated. As with diseases, so with
drags, there are all grades of severity, down to the mildest
possible form. All we have to ascertain is that, in general
type, or in the main features, however slightly marked,
we have a ghnUe between the drug and the disease.
Belladonna is best given from the Srd centesimal down
to the 2 X. Higher dilutions often do admirably — lower
are seldom needed, and in many cases of sensitive nervous
organisations may aggravate.
The doses may be given every three or four hours, or
oftener, according to the urgency of the symptoms.
After odsomte and heUadonna^ we naturally think of Vero"
irwnviride.
Verairum viride seems to resemble aconite, belladonnaj
and gdseminum in several points, while differing from them
as a whole.
The general action of veratrum viride may be shortly
described as, in full doses, producing marked depression
of the heart's action, with nausea, vomiting, general
depression, prostration, and cold sweats. In smaller doses,
a dull frontal headache is produced, with vertigo, dimness
of vision, and dilated pupils. The headache often seems
to come from the nape of the neck. There is a feeling
of heaviness in the head, the frontal headache is often
very severe, though as often dull and heavy. There is
restiiesB sleep, witii frightful dreams. The pulse becomes
slow and feeble, afterwards becomes quick, and again slow
before death. From large doses, marked convulsions
of eerebro-spinal origin are present, opisthotonous very
frequently ; while from smaller doses, spasmodic twitching
ftnd oonvnlsive movements occur. . The great vascular
170 HTPE&25MU OF BBAIN. '^SfL
B0vi8v,lUr.l, IBU.
depressioii oocnrs from large doaeSy while from smaller
ones the febrile reaction ensnes, as in the case of ctconite.
I shall have again to speak of veratrum viride when
treating of inflammation of the brainy bat in simple
hyperasmia it is most nsefoly in cases very similar to those
calling for aconite or beUadanna. Veratrum viride is
usually given in the lower dilutions, as the 8rd to the 1st
decimal, according to the susceptibility of the patient, or
the urgency of the symptoms.
After these three medicines, Oelsemtntun properly comes
in for notice. Its action is somewhat akin to both aconite
and belladonna, but the type of febrile disturbance diffiBrs
from the former in showing the remittent type, being
eyident or increased markedly at night.
The type of cerebral disturbance is less active than that
of belladonna, and though with the latter it is of service in
active hypersBmia of the brain, it is still more so in the
passive form, or what we believe to be of the passive type.
It produces an irritable state of mind, going on to depression.
There is dizziness and confusion of thought. Tlie head-
ache is a full, heavy one, or with a feeling of full tightness
all over the head, but more especially in the forehead,
temples, and occiput. The eyesight is confused, with even
double vision. Palpitation is complained of, with quick
pulse and feverish feeling coming on at night. By day there
is a drowsy state, and at night a restiess, fever^ state of
sleeplessness.
OeUeminum, then, is indicated in states of brain hypene-
mia arising from over- work of brain or body, or from wony
and anxiety, when the headache is such as I have described,
with confusion of mind, and disordered vision, and with
feverish sleepnessness at night. For dose, I should advise
from the 8rd to the 1st decimal.
We now come to a medicine of great importance.
Nux vomica. — The symptoms of what is believed generally
to be the result of hypenemia of the brain, are very
markedly displayed in the pathogenesis of nux^ and
from these, and from what I shall have to say of
the general class of case indicating nux, you will
perceive that it will be one of the drugs most frequently
employed in this complaint. 1. As to the mental,
emoti<mal, or psychical spheres, we find the prover
of nux irascible, irritable, peevish, and quarrelsome; at
other times anxious, despondent, and tacitum ; there are
^t^SSn^ HTOBRfiMIA OP BBAIN. 171
BflVJev, Mv. 1, 1881.
no aetnal illnsionB or hallacmations. Along with this
Btaie^ he heoomes morbidly nensitiYe to light, and Bound,
and eren smell. There is a state of excitable, irritated
nervons function, and an inability to settle to work of
thought. He suffers from confdsion, marked dizziness, or
vertigo, even going the length of producing reeling and
staggering, as if drunk; The vertigo is often wqrse after
dinner* Secondly, we note that headache is a very
prominent symptom. The marked feature of it is a
heavy, pressive, or tensive, dull headache all over the head,
or very often in the forehead and temples, giving a stupid
feeling, as if one had not slept enough, incapacitating
for thought, and aggravated by mental efforts, by eating,
and also in the morning. With these headaches there is a
Cseling of fulness in the head, as if too much blood were in
it, and this also is worse after food and in the morning.
The face is often flushed or suffused looking, though
sometimes pale. The muscles of the face are apt to
twitoh. He starts easily at the least noise, or even on
a sudden touch ; such startings being akin to twitches,
or convulsive movements, which latter constantly occur in
aggravated cases. Sparks or flashes of light are seen. He
is very sleepy in the afternoon, after dinner ; sleeps badly
at night ; &lls asleep in the first part of the night, then
wakes up at 2 or 8 o'clock ; lies wide awake for two or
three or four hours, and then drops off into a heavy sleep
when it is nearly time to get up. He wakes tired and
unrefreshed, with his headache and feeling of conftision.
Such are the general cerebral and nervous symptoms pro-
duced by nux, and indicating it as a medicine. But where
it is indicated strongly, you will find usually other symp-
toms which are very important to notice, and the presence
of which aid yen materially in selecting nux in preference
to other medicines. First, you will notice as important,
one of Hahnemann's masterly generalisations, which has
been corroborated by every one since his time, viz., the
tjpe of patient for whom ntix is specially useful. Ton
win find certain persons tell you that nux ** always suits "
them, and almost always puts them right from any disorder,
while others will find from experience that nux never does
than much good. This is accounted for by the fact that nux
suits specially a certain type of body. It is not the easy,
gentle, soft disposition, with blonde complexion and tail hair,
which we see so decidedly in females, but rather the vigorous.
172 HWBRaSMIA OF BBAIN. "S^^S^TS^
quick, irascible nature, of dry and firm habit, with dark
hair, and sallow or brunette complexion ; also the literary
man, or the business man, who has much mental work and
anxiety, combined with a sedentary life, and those also
addicted to good feeding, the use of much wine or other
alcoholic stimulant, and much coffee.
Next, jou find that the symptoms are almost invariably
worse in the morning. After the peculiar form of sleep-
lessness already mentioned, the proyer wakes from sleep,
tired, and languid, and with all the uncomfortable symp-
toms of such a case, headache, &c., and with no appetite
for breakfast, or energy for anything.
Lastly, there is a distinct form of dyspepsia. This I fcilly
described when treating of dyspepsia. Here I simply
remind you of it. The tongue is coated yeUow-white at
the posterior half, while tolerably clean in the front half.
There is bad taste, bitter or foul. There is loss of appetite,
fulness, distension, and heaviness after food, as if he had
eaten too much ; acid risings, flatulence, heartburn, and
sickness or nausea. The bowels are constipated, with a
feeling of desire for stool, but inability to perform the
function, and tendency to piles.
With such general symptoms present, along with the
head symptoms of irritation and congestion, or hypercemia,
you will find nux clearly en rapport, and it will quickly
produce improvement and cure. Perhaps the moat
generally useful dose of nux vomica in this condition
is the 8rd centesimal. In sensitive patients, it is often
better to go higher, up to the SOth, or occasionally even to
the 200th ; wlule in others better results are obtained from
the 2nd or 1st decimal. Nux vomica is a medicine which,
I have often remarked to you, acts well in all dilutions,
and one has to make use of the whole range of the scale,
according to the susceptibility of the patient, in order to
procure its fidl effects.
You will observe that the class of case calling for mix
is quite distinct from the type of case requiring aconite,
beliadonna, &c. It is one where the state of the digestive
organs has evidently largely to do with the hypersBmio
condition of the brain.
Allied to ntuc vomica in several points is Sulphur.
From my remarks in former lectures, you will remember
that perhaps the main feature of the sulpkur action is
its tendency to chronioity, and its passive venous
J&Si^MKMB?^ HTPBR^MIA OP BRAIN. 178
congestions, with the symptoms resulting therefrom. It
is thus specially in cases of passive hypersBmia of the
brain, and particularly when of considerable standing, that
sulphur will be of use.
It produces a condition of mental dulness, and apathy,
combined with peevish irritability, and disinclination
for mental or physical exertion. The head feels fuU and
congested, as if too full of blood ; there is headache of
the same type, a hot, heavy, full, tensive or pressive
headache, all over, or in the forehead and temples, with
vertigo, especially in morning. You find a general slug-
gishness of the whole system. The appetite is poor,
digestion is slow, with fulness after eating. The action of
the liver is sluggish, constipation is present with
tendency to pale stools and hsBmorrhoids. The latter are
due partly to the liver engorgement, and partly to the
constipation. Bheumatic pains are complained of, and
there is tendency to mucous catarrh ; sleep is restless and
uneasy, the pains are worse at night, and in the heat of
the bed, and the patient wakes tired, and languid in the
morning. Tou will very probably also find a tendency at
the time, or at some former time, to skin irritation,
itching, and eruptions.
You will thus observe that, as with ntix' vomica, the
hypersemia of the brain is not pure, but largely dependent
on disorder of the general health, especially of the digestive
organs. From the many points of similarity between the
nux and the stdphtir conditions, you frequently meet with
cases where both seem indicated, and you will often find it
of manifest benefit to prescribe one dose of sulphur in the
mornings or in certain circumstances at night, while you
give nvx during the day. This is a practice which has the
sanction of most practitioners, and one that you will find
yield excellent results — often better than when either
medicine is given alone.
As to the dose of sulphury you must, as with nua, employ
all dilutions, according to the condition or susceptibility of
your patient. The Srd centesimal is a fair average, or
generally useful dilution, while in some cases you must use
the 6th, 12th, or 80th, and in others better results are
obtained from a pilule of the saturated tincture, generally
spoken of as the mother-tincture, but more correctly as the
tmcL sulph.fort. The pilule is a better form to administer
the latter, ks in water it forms a fine milky precipitate.
174 HTPBILEMU OP BBAIN. ^^SJ&^^SS^wi!
A completely dififerent type of oerebral hypenemiay from
any that I have yet described, is met by Ojpium^
It is almost unnecessary to give yon a sketch of the
pathogenesis of opium, as the action of this medicine is so
well known. I may jost state that the symptoms specially
indicating it are a general torpor of the brain and nerre
functions, great and constant sleepiness, inability or dis-
inclination for any exertion, difficulty of rousing oneself for
anything, stupor of mental functions, irritability of temper
when roused from this heavy state, with flushed dusky com-
plexion, or sometimes the reverse, a pale face, contracted
pupils, and a dnll, heavy, oppressive headache, as if the
brain were loaded. The appetite is sluggish, and the bowels
costive.
Ton will observe that here we have no active or arterial
hypenemia, but a passive engorgement, with a state of
torpor of iJie mental and other Amctions, and in fitct the
condition produced by opium poisoning.
The dose of opium which I have mostly used is the 2nd
decimal, or in some cases the 8rd centesimal.
Qhnoine is often of marked service in cases of hypersemia
of the brain, coming on acutely, to relieve specially the
severe headache, such as occurs in sunstroke, or sudden
hypersemia from any cause. It is allied in action, as far
as the headache, &c., is concerned, to beUadonna. The
headache, in fact, is the special feature of the ghnoine
action.
The prover suffers from a state of agitation (mental),
anxiety, and apprehension. There is mental confusion,
he hardly knows where he is, and can with difficulty
recognise the objects surrounding him. Oreat and intetise
headache is felt. The head feels too large, or as if the skull
were too small for its contents. There is painful, throb-
bing felt in the head — synchronous with the pulse — ^feeling
as if all the blood had mounted to the head. The head-
ache is felt all through the head, but chiefly in forehead
and temples. It is worse on movement, and on bending
down. The temporal arteries visibly throb. Vertigo also
is very marked along with the headache. The eyes are
staring, and congested, and the face flushed. The pulso
is quick and full, the heart beats violently, and with much
palpitation. Heavy restless sleep is produced, or sleep-
lessness.
fXSS^mlShvSS^ HYMMBMU OP BBAIM. 176
It is, therefore, specially celled for in any sudden and
Beveie attack with symptoms as above, whether arising
from menstnial sappresdon, exoessive heat, or otherwise.
The dose I nsnally employ and recommend to yon is the
8rd decimal.
In many points resembling ^Zonoin^, and also beliadonnay
is that interesting medicine of recent introduction, the
Amyl nitrite. — On inhaling this drug, very soon the face
feels snfFdsed and flushes visibly, the head feels full of
blood, and throbs violently. The prover feels confused
and giddy, with confusion also of sight. The pulso
becomes quick and full, and the heart throbs quickly
and violently. It is believed that general arterial dilatation
and hypersemia is produced.
This sketch of its effects will show you in what cases it
will relieve. It is in acute arterial hypenemia, arising
from any cause, and one frequently finds such a state
produced in women by sudden suppression of the menses,
and at the menopause. It may be used by inhalation
carefully^ or by the internal administration of the 2x or Sx
dilutions.
Arnica is useful in certain cases, as in those of active
congestion, threatening apoplexy, in old people, in hyper-
iemia from fisdls or concussion^ or shock, and in cases alter-
nating with and relieved by epistaxis. It causes a full,
pressive headache, with feeling of fulness of blood, and
vertigo, with confusion of mind and senses. The head-
ache is chiefly in the forehead and temples, though it may
be ftlt all through the head. There is often in such a state
sleeplessness at night. Dose 8, or 8x.
BryomaiB sometimes of service in mild cases of hypenemia.
The form of headache of bryonia is a full, heavy, pressive
pam, as if the head were too full of blood. It is chiefly felt
in the forehead and temples, is worse on movement, and
with a feeling as if the contents of the skull would fall out
at the forehead, especially on stooping. Vertigo, and con-
fosed feeling, are also present. This and the headache are
worse on first waking in the morning. Along with this
state, the tongue is furred, there is fulness or feeling as of
a load or weight in the stomach after food. Uneasiness in
region of liver, with sluggish action of it, and constipation.
You often find also a tendency to rheumatic pains, or the
presence of the rheumatic diathesis. AU then symptoms
176 HYPBaaiMIA OP BRAIN. 'a!SS^5S?JfiS!
are worse on motion. Bryonia is thus suited to mild cases,
where there is disorder of the stomach and liver^ with rheu-
matic tendency, and where the headache and vertigo are
as aboTe described.
The dose of hryonia I should recommend is from the 3rd
centesimal to 8rd decimal dilutions.
Cuprum is valuable in hypersBmia of the brain arising
from non-developed or retroceding eruption of measles or
scarlet fever. We have then a dull, oppressed condition of
venous or passive hypersBmia, and a tendency to convulsions,
or the actual presence of them. I spoke of this fully when
lecturing on these fevers.
Lastly, AUanthus Glandvlosua, which I spoke of also in a
former lecture on measles and scarlet fever, has a patho-
genesis which points strongly to its use in passive
hyperaemia of the brain, resembling the action of opium
rather than that of beUadonna. The prover becomes dull,
languid, depressed, and indifferent to his own state, or
may be anxious and restless. He feels languid all over,
incapacitated for any mental effort, has to read over several
times what he is reading before he can comprehend it, or
has to count figures over and over again before he can get
them right. In advanced stages there may be insensibility,
with low, muttering delirium, not the active, excited
delirium of belladonna. He complains much of vertigo,
which prevents him walking straight, and objects seem to
move before him. There is also a dull, oppressed, fall,
and congestive headache, felt all over the head or in the
forehead. Along with this headache there is marked
vertigo, producing sympathetic nausea and vomiting,
without any gastric symptoms to account for it. Loss
of memory also occurs. Then we have other symptoms
of nervous disturbance and passive congestion — as a
constricted feeling in the chest, as if it were strapped ;
a similar feeling of constriction in the abdomen; pains
all up and down the spinal column, numbness and
tingling in the arms and legs, with heaviness in the
legs, and pains in the feet. There is sleepiness by day,
and unrefi^shing disturbed sleep at night.
This pathogenesis indicates ailanthus in states of passive
or venous hypera)mia — a state of oppressed brain and
general nerve function, such as precedes or forewarns
an attack of apoplexy. Also in general passive brain
congestion, not of gastric origin, but such as one sees
JSSi^SSrnSn?*" CJOPPBB IN CHOLBKA. 177
prodaced by over-work or brain-fiEkg. It is likewise
indicated, as I stated in a former lecture, in the hypersemia
of the brain occurring in cases- of measles and scarlet fever,
from sappressed eraptions. I know of no recorded cases of
brain-hypenemia treated by ailanthtUf except those in
scarlet fever, bat I coald not consider my subject complete,
without pointing out this medicine as one likely to be
found of value in the states I have indicated. I should
give it in a low dilution, the 8rd or Ist decimal.
Such, Oentlemen, are the chief remedies useful in
cerebral hypernmia, or in cases where we beUeve, from the
symptoms, that such a state exists. I might, perhaps, have
included actaa, but this and other medicines will come in
better when I come to speak of headache and its treat-
ment.
ON THE PROPHYLACTIC ACTION OF COPPER
IN CHOLERA.*
By Dr. Joussbt.
Aftbb the appearance of cholera in Europe, in 1829,
Hahnemann and the earlier homoeopathists pointed out
veratrum, anenic, and copper as the three principal drugs
for this new malady, and prescribed these three substances,
not only as curative drugs, but also as prophylactics. Some
of them added to this practice, the habit of wearing small
plates of copper in contact with the skin. Drs. Mares and
Schmit, in particular, insisted on these prophylactic
measures ; and I myself, during the epidemic which raged
at Charroux (Vienna) in 1852, employed plates of copper
veiy extensively, and obtained very good results.
But it was principally Dr. Burq, whose studies in metal-
lotherapy had acquainted him with the action of copper in
the cramps of cholera, who predicted that the application of
plates of metallic copper would prove prophylactic against
cholera.
This honest and modest physician, to whom the Homodo-
pathic Medical Society of France rendered full justice forty
years before the Academy of Medicine would consent to
examine his works, had made considerable researches in
public hygiene, and arrived at the conclusion that workers
• Traoalafted from VAH UidicaU by I>r. A. 8. EMiiMdbr, of BkoUMath.
Ko 8, YoL 96. H
178 COPPEB IN CHOLERA. ^ffS^L^^S"?^
BoTiew, Xtf. 1. 18SI.
in copper were completely preserved from cholera when ihay
remained exposed to the emanations of copper dust during
an epidemic. Did Dr. Barq imbibe his first idea of the
preservatiye yirtnes of copper from his acquaintance with
homoeopathic physicians, or did he arriye directly at this
idea?
Dr. Secretain, at the time of Burq's publications, always
claimed the priority in this observation for Hahnemann,
and since that time that priority has been inoontestably
established. Hence it was not without surprise that we
lately read that a Dr. Mailhet, of Japan, had just dis-
covered the prophylactic action of copper in cholera, he
having obtained the greatest possible success by its employ-
ment ! Here is the passage from the Qcusette des Hopitaux
which reports this so-called discovery, appending thereto
an ingenious explanation from Dr. Mailhet : —
'' In 1877 I had dreamed of a prophylactic which I had
not put into practice, having haii but few cases in the
locality where I live. This year the epidemic having
reached us, I have been able to test my experiment, and I
send you the result. I 8tai*ted with these facts, that
persons who work in copper enjoy a great immunity from
cholera ; that, according to the experiments carried on by
the Society of Biology, metallic applications act by develop-
ing a feeble current of electricity.
'' Besides, I said to myself, the cholera should attack by
preference those who offered to it least resistance, namely,
those whose digestive tract was in an unhealthy state.
"Hence it follows that the application of plates of
copper should cause a slight excitement in the subjacent
organs, and increase their resistance to the invasion of
cholera. I know not what may be Hie value of these con*
siderations, I only give them as the outcome of the asso^
ciatlon of ideas which led me to try the me of a copper girdle
as a preventive against cholera.
" I then first cut some plates of red and yellow copper
of the size of a two-franc piece in the middle ; I fixed a
little tongue through which I passed a narrow ribbon,
which passed through all the little plates one after another,
arranged by placing first a plate of red copper, then one of
yellow, then red, and so on.
'* I made quite easily one of Dr. Burq's girdles. But
this girdle has the inconvenience of pinching and wounding
the skin in the movements of the body.
^t^£!TxS^ COPPER IN OHOLEBA. 179
** At the oommeneement of the epidemic I advised the
use of a girdle like this^ and soon more than 600 persons
were provided with them, not counting those who, from
laek of means, only carried one or two plates in their
girdleSy and the innumerable number who made themselves
amulets of copper, without taking the trouble to put them
in contact witii the body.
**We had forty-five severe cases of cholera, of which
thirty died ; and more than fifty slight cases, and cases of
cholerine.
*' Out of this number I did not see a single wearer of the
girdle. It would be a very singular coincidence that not
one of my girdle-wearers should be found amongst the
hundred cases of cholera which I had, if the copper girdle
had not had some 'prophylactic virtue/ "
So Dr. Mailhet has found out, after Hahnemann, afber
all the homoeopaths who have studied and treated cholera
since 1829, after Dr. Burq, that copper applied to the skin
is a good prophylactic against cholera ! He has verified
this prophylactic virtue of copper after a hundred, after a
thousand other physicians ; he has confirmed an important
fact in practical medicine, one even yet contested by some
contentious and retrograde spirits ; and in doing that he
has certainly done a useful task, and one worthy of praise.
But why not relate honestly the facts ? Why not say
that Hahnemann, haviog ascertained experimentally that
copper produced vomiting, diarrhcda, cramps, and an entirety
of symptoms analogous to cholera, advised this drug in the
treatment of this malady, when the cramps are extreme
and the sickness aggravated ? His disciples have verified
luB suggestion ; and the curative properties of copper led
to its administration as a preservative against the disease
which it cured.
The knowledge of the immunity against cholera enjoyed
by labourers in copper mines, had suggested the employ-
ment of plates of copper worn on the skin as a preservative
from cholera. Then came Burq, with bis enquiry into the
immunity of copper- workers against cholera ; and the use
of copper plates became generid amongst those physicians
who kept pace with the new therapeutics.
These are the true reasons why Dr. Mailhet employed
copper in the prophylaxis of cholera. But these reasons
are tainted witib homcBopathy ; they smell of heresy ; and
he has first been obliged, on the one hand, to say nothing
1^0 tasviEws. ''^^^SSTS^.
«
of those physicians, who first proposed copper in the treat-
ment of cholera, which is dishonest, and then to invent a
physiological theory to explain the discovery of Dr. Mailhet !
So it is not because copper produces in the healthy body a
state similar to cholera, that it cures it, and he prescribes
it, but because ** the application of plates of copper causes
a slight excitement of subjacent organs (the intestines), and
increases their resistance of the invasion of cholera."
What a lovely explanation 1 Thus it is the electricity
which preserves from cholera, and not the absorption of
copper by the skin. Then what preserves the workers in
copper, who absorb the dust of the metal, and in whom you
cannot claim electric action ? The fear of appearing to have
imbibed anything from the Great Beformer of medicine
crazes the men who live by these thefts, and the absurd
theories which they are obliged to put forward are the just
punishment of their plagiarism.
REVIEWS.
Matetia Medica Pura. By Samubl Hahmbmamn. Translated
from the latest German editions, by B. E. Dudgeon, M.D.
With Annotations by Bichard Hughes, L.B.C.P. Edin.
Vol. I. Aconitum — Ipecacuanha. Hahnemann Publishing
Society. 1880.
The work before us is a translation of one on Materia Medica
the first edition of which appeared some sixty or seventy years
ago t Where is there another work on the same subject published
at the date at which this was, which those who practise medicine
withoat a therapeutic principle, would regard as worth the trouble
of translating now, and translating, too, in precisely the same
form in which it appeared ? There is not such an one. That
Hahnemann's Materia Medica Pwra is still valuable, is yet
capable of assisting a physician in prescribing for his patients, is
owing to its consisting of an assemblage of facts, of observations,
of experiments — to its being entirely devoid of theoretical specu-
lations as to the action of drugs, and of theoretical suggestions
for their prescription in disease. Facts live — theories disappear,
as increasing knowledge tends to cast deubt upon their valicUty.
The translation of Hahnemann's Materia Medica has be«Di
done by Dr. Dudgeon. As a guarantee of accuracy, of fidelity
to the original, it is quite needless for us to say more. For forty
years a student of the author's writings, the elegant translator
of his Organon of the HeaUng Art and of many of his essays,
£iSSS*5rj"«f* RBV1BW8. 181
B^/nsw, Xar. 1, 18B1.
Dr. Dudgeon bronght to bear upon his task a familiarity with his
style which few, if any, possess beside him ; while his thorough
knowledge of the language rendered easy to him what many,
whose acquaintance with it might be regarded as above the
average, would have found difficult.
Dr. Hughes has performed his share of the work by revising
from their originals the observations Hahnemann collected from
the writings of previous observers.
We have thus before us a translation of Hahnemann's great
work, the like of which has never previously appeared. It is as
perfect as it can be made.
Most cordially do we thank the translator and his colleague
and the Hahnemann Publishing Society for having provided
this very important aid to the better performance of our daily
work. We trust that every homodopathic physician will procure
it and use it.
On the Medicinal Treatment of Diseasee of the Veins. By
J. GoMPTON BuBMXTT, M.D., &c, Loudou : HomoBopathic
Publishing Company, 1881, pp. 166.
Ik this powerfully-written, deeply-interesting and suggestive
Httle book Dr. Burnett argues, illustrates, and enforces the
thesis " that atonic dilated veins may, in many instances, be
made to shrink to their original size by the proper use of
medicines administered internally and aided by certain ausdl-
iaries — ^in other words, varicosis, hsdmorrhoids, varicocele, and
varices are amenable to drug treatment, and therefore surgery,
in this department of diseases of the veins, is to be superseded
by medicines " (p. 6). The best of surgery in the treatment of
diseases termed '* surgical " is but tide inevitable result of
imperfect medicinal therapeutics. Were the art of medicine
perfect, a large number of operations ingeniously devised and
skilfully performed would become needless. Life may be, and
often is, saved by the amputation of a thigh, in a case where the
knee joint has become destroyed by disease ; but the patient
can scarcely be said to have been cured by the operation. Had
medidne been perfect, the disease in the joint would have been
cured before the destruction of tissue had proceeded so far as to
endanger life. So in hemorrhoids, to cut off a mass of piles
protruding from the rectum does not cure piles ; it removes that
which has by its grovrth become a source of danger to the
individual.
Dr. Burnett shows that by judicious local, medicinal, and
hygienic treatment, the worst cases may be really cured ; that
the sufierer may be restored to health without having any tissue
lemored by the knife or the cautery^
182 NOTABUJA. "^SL^SKf^^S?
BOTiew, Mv. 1, ISM.
The prmeiples he emmciaics are soiind bejimd ea^iL That
thej can be saccessfblly canied out in praotiee ia prored by the
▼ery strikiiig cases he records. At the same time the canyiDg
of them into practice is well calculated to try the courage and
determination of the most plneky and resolate of both physacians
and patients. The two cases related on pages 83-99 are among
the trophies of medicine. Nothing short <^ indomitable pluck
and confidence could have saTed ^ese cases from the knife of
the surgeon — and the knife of the surgeon would never have
restored health as completely as did Dt, Burnett's " homoeo-
pathic, postural, and dietetic treatment/' We earnestly commend
the perusal of this small but important treatise to ail our
medical brethren, feeling assured that it will tend greatiy to
strengthen their faith in the art of medicine.
Ecce Medicus; or^ Hahnemann as a Man and as a Physieian,
and tiie Lessons of his Life, Being the first Hahnemann
Lecture^ 1880. By J. Compton Bubmstt, MJ). London :
Homceopathic Publishing Company. 1881. Pp. 164.
This brilliant little book, appropriately dedicated to Dr. Bayes,
forms by far the fullest record of the life of Hahnemann, as it
gives also the best estimate of his character, and of his work
with which we are acquainted.
Barely, if ever, hive we met with a more sparkling, more
attractive piece of reading. Few, if any, could, we think, com-
mence it without finishing it before laying it down. It is the
work of a master in literature.
It is needless to make extracts here, for we are sure tiiat
everyone who feels an interest in homoeopathy will obtain, read,
and ei^joy it.
NOTABILIA,
THE LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMOEOPATHY.
The 4lBt monthly meeting of the Committee was held on the
14th ult., John Boodle, Esq., in the chair. The Committee
have appointed Dr. Riohakd Hughes to deliver the Hahnemann
Address in October of the present year. The annual meeting of
the School is appointed to be held on Tuesday, April 12th, at
4 p.m. It is particularly requested that our subscribers and
governors will attend this meeting. Important business con-
nected with the future working of the School will then be dis-
cussed and arranged. It is not usual to answer anonymous
communications, but the Hon. Secretary having received an
anonymous note professing to correct his statement Uiat there
are about 800 practitioners of homoeopathy in Qreat Britalii, by
iSgyJSTSff^ KOTABILU. 183
Mjmg that the Homooopathio Direetory eontains the names of only
275, ]>r. Bajee would ioform the writer that, in addition to these
276 avowed practitioners of homoBopathy, there are many who
practise homoeopathy exclusively, hat ohject to their names
appearing in a directory as homoeopaths, on account of the
miworthy persecution which might follow such an avowaL A
eonsiderable number of such physicians are known to Dr. Bayes.
The School entered upon its fifth year on the 15th December,
1880, the period for which the Si^ool was constituted, as at
jvesent organised. Gentlemen desiring to suggest changes in
the working of the School are requested to communicate their
views to Dr. Bayes, as succinctly as possible. Suggestions thus
made will be submitted to the next Committee meeting, and shall
have every consideration given them at the annual meeting. One
suggestion of a practical nature is before the Committee, viz. :
To fond the surplus moneys and add them to the sum already
invested. To extinguish the annual subsidies now paid to the
lecturers, and the salaries. Of the income that will be produced,
to set apart £50 annually as an endowment for a clinical lecture-
ship at the London Homceopathic Hospital — ^to be held for two
years by the appointed lecturer (who may be eligible for re-
election)— ^the surplus to be used for the payment of the rent of
the lecture room, and for the endowment of a Hahnemann
lectureship. The lecturer to be elected annually. The surplus
to accumulate until a sufficient sum is available to enable the
trustees for the fund to propose farther endowments. It will be
needful that certain changes shall be made in the constitution of
the executive of the School, in order to simplify its working.
The course above indicated is one which would provide per-
manence for the most essential lectureship.* A scheme is also
provided for the encouragement of farther lectureships, sub-
sidising them in proportion to the number of pupils receiving
instruction at their hands. The above propositions will, if
carried out, form a nucleus easily expanded into a new medical
school when sufficient funds have accumulated. — William Bayes,
Hon. Sec., 21, Henrietta Street, Cavendish Square, W.
SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS.
This Society, which owes its existence, we believe, chiefly, if
not entirely, to the efforts of our friend Dr. Roth, has just
issued the first report of its proceedings. From this we find that
• «« In order to make any real improvement in training our students as
praotitionen, it is neoessary, to a large extent, to substitute tutorial and
bedside teachings for the long ooorses of lectiues now delivered on Medi-
cine and Bnrgery." — ^Beport of the Committee of Coundl of the British
Medical Association on Medical Bduoation, January, lS81.
184 NOTABUJA. "SSai^KWSS*
.1.
Dr. Both has, from TarioHs eaoBes, been compelled to perfona
the duties of treasurer, seeretary, and committee ahnoet un-
aided. He hopes that during Uie current year others may
become sofficiently interested in helping the blind to rehere him
of some, at any rate, of the duties now devolving upon him.
The report, which is descriptiye of the work of the Society —
perhaps we should be more accurate were we to say the work of
Dr. Both — is a somewhat lengthy one, but exceedingly interest-
ing, and displays that restless energy in doing good to the he^-
less, and in endeavouring to prevent others, now in health,
becoming, through illness, dependent on their friends, which are
characteristic of Dr. Both.
We shall probably return to the consideration of the work of
this Society on a futore occasion, meanwhile we would advise all
to obtain a copy of this report from Dr. Both (48, Wimpole
Street), and give him generous aid in extending the usefulness
of the Society.
THE BATH HOMCEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
Thb Beport of this Institution for the past year shows, we are
glad to find, evidence of its increasing usefulness. Forty-six
in-patients — mostly acute cases — ^have been admitted, against
thirty-two in 1879. Of out-patients 8,800 have been received.
Mr. Norman and Dr. Holland are the Medical Officers, Dr.
Newman being the Consulting Physician. A Bazaar is to be
held during the autumn in aid of the Hospital funds, which will,
we trust, meet with large and liberal support.
THE NEW YOBK STATE HOMCEOPATHIC ASYLUM
FOB THE INSANE.
The annual meeting of the trustees of this institution was held
in December last. From the report of the proceedings in the
St. Louis Clinical Review we make the following extracts : —
** The report of medical superintendent Dr. Selden H. Talcott,
showed that the rate of recoveries of the insane was larger last
year than ever before in the history of the institution, and the
death rate lower. The rate of cures was 46.56 per cent., and of
deaths 4.18 per cent. In all 811 different patients were treated
during the year, of whom 164 were in the asylum at the
beginning, and 180 at the close, October 1st, 1880. The number
admitted was 147. The number discharged cured was 61,
improved 24, unimproved 88, deaths 18. The largest number
present at any one time was 199.
^tSS^SSTSS^ NOTABILU. 186
«< The means employed to eflB»et onrefl were tlie same as hare
herotolbre been used in the institation. First, every effort is
made to restore patients to bodily health and strength, which is^
in most cases, a necessity. Rest, qniet, exercise, employment,
amusement are each and sdl used where they will be beneficial in
the work of restoring the insane to mental and bodily health.
Homoeopathic treatment, of course, is the role where medicine is
necessary. Good nonrishing food is one of the main reliances of
the management. The male patients have been employed mostly
in gardening and other light work on the grounds, while the
women have done most of the plain sewing of the institution.
'*The superintendent discusses at considerable length, and
very fairly and sensibly, the much mooted question of restraint
or non-restraint. While condemning it as a general treatment
he regards it as a necessity in exceptional cases, and then he
prefers restraint to the use of stupifying methods that are used
in its stead in some institutions. He mentions one case where an
insane woman was only prevented from sticking herself with pins
and needles by covering her hands with light canvas until the mania
passed away. A male patient was treated in the same way to pre*
vent him from pushing his thumbs into his eye sockets, which he
said the Lord commanded him to do. Another patient had to be
put into restraint to defeat the most persistent and varied attempts
at suicide that oould be imagined. Restraint is used only to
prevent suicide and mutilation, and then with the greatest care."
ANOTHER ALLOPATHIC NOYELTY!
TsE following paragraph appears in the Monthly Magazine of
Pharmacy f Chemistry , and Medicine^ entitled —
"A New Remedy."
*' For violent griping caused by excessive peristaltic action of
the stomach, an occasional teaspoonful dose is recommended of
a solution made by adding a tincture of colocynth to water in
sufficient quantity to render it bitter. The homoeopathic dose so
given is said by the Chicago Medical Jotimal to have an excellent
sedative effect. If this be correct, it affords another instance of
the faet that some medicines when given in minute doses produce
exactly opposite effects to those following their administration in
large quantities. Experiment with regard to this, particularly if
made with some of the more potent drugs, might reveal some
very nsefrd remedies."
Li 1821 — or sixty years ago — Hahnemann published the record
of his experiments with colocynth. In the pre&ce thereto he
wrote : '* Many of the most violent colics may be often very
rapidly cured, when at the same time the other characteristic
186 NOTABILU. ""SSSL^SS?^*
Bemw, Xw. 1, IML.
BymptofDB of the diaeMA, w a poriion of them, are to be fbtind in
nmilarity aznong the symptonui of cohcynth.'* MaUria Mediea
Pura^ vol. 1, p. 612 (Hahnemaim Piiblialiixig Society's edition).
A litUe reseajreh into Hahnemann' 9 Materia Medioa^ or Hugket*
Pharmacodynamics^ will saTe the neoessity of ** experiment 1 "
^^M^i^W^»^— ^^W— ■ MMMM 11 ■ ■ I ■ I 111 ■ „ ■ ■ ■ I M ■ ^» ■■■»■■ .^ I ■■ ^ M ■■ ■ — 1^
BOYCOTTING -HOMCEOPATHY,
Db. Hatwabd, the eminent and respected homodopathic physician,
has onr sincere sympathies. He has been ** Boycotted." He is
not an Irish landlord, it is trae, but nevertheless on the anthoiify
of his professional colleague, I)r. Drysdale, whose witness sorely
is troe, he — that is Dr. Hayward — ^has been Boycotted. He has
been Boycotted by his profession, for the offence of being a
homoeopath. This is terrible. The fearfol example set by those
Irish rascals appears to be spreading in all directions. We have
heard of people of divers sorts and conditions being Boycotted,
from clergymen to costermongers, from noblemen to nobodies :
even Col. Stebie and Mr. Willuum Simpson have been named as
recent victims of this new social ostracism which was heard of
nnder its modem designation on the shores of Lough Mask, and
is now permeating idl ranks and circles of men. But we had
thought that physicians, men of science, iovans, and philosophers
would have been exempt from this new foible of disorganised
society. Yet Dr. Hayward, so his friend Dr. Drysdale states,
has been Boycotted. The principal act of the Boycotting con-
sists in the fact that the advertisement of a new Materia Medica
which Dr. Hayward is editing has been refused admission to the
columns of the Lancet, the leading organ of the medical {wofession.
This was stated by Dr. Drysdale yesterday at the annual meeting
of the Liverpool Homoeopathic Dispensaries, and moreover, one
or two other speakers bore witness to the Boycotting of physicians
suspected of tiie homoeopathic heresy being a common practice in
the profession. Alas ! then it would seem that even medical men
are afflicted with the ordinary filings of humanity, and subject
to fits of spleen and jealousy just like ordinary mortals. After
the pretensions to infallibility which leading members of the
medical profession have so often put forward on certain subjects,
it is a terrible revelation to have this confession for one of ttiem-
selves.*' — The Liberal Bevteto (Liverpool), Jan. 22.
"THE ORGANON."
We do not refer to Hahnemann's great work by this title, but to
the Anglo-American journal called The Organon. We have
heard that it has ceased to appear, and that there is no pro-
bability of its revival. Bequieeeat in pace*
B.H«r. lUr. 1. UU. HOTABIUA. 187
BKITZSH HOM<EOPATHIG SOCIETY.
Thb next meetmg of this Society will ^ake place on Thnrsdaj
erening, the 8rd inst, at the Hospital, Great Ormond Street, at
seven o'clock, when Dr. BiLTss will read a paper On the Means
existing in England for teaching Homceopathtj — the Britiah
Homctopathie Society, the London Homcfopathic Hospital, and
the London School of Hoinaopathy — showing the aims and scope
of these Institutions^ with suggestions for increasing thdr efficiency,
and for drawing them into nearer and closer relation to one
another.
The snhjeot to be presented for discnssion by Dr. BiLTBS is
one of sneh vital importance to the progress and development of
Homoeopathy that we tmst a large number of members will be
present to join in it. About the duty of supporting and extend-
ing the influence of our Society, Hospital, and School, there
ought to be no difference of opinion. As to the best means for
doing so there is ample room for discussion. Out of that
which win take place on Thursday evening next we hope that
much advantage will accrue to each Institution.
HOMGBOPATHY IN BOSTON, U.S,A.
Tbb following gratifying information comes to us from
Boston : —
** It is desired to enlarge the hospital building, and to add to
its facilities for serving the community. For this purpose at
least 50,000 dollars should be now raised.
** The work of the hospital has been steadily increasing since
its foundation in 1871. During the past year a larger number
of persons than ever before have been received into tibe building,
and the demand for the treatment of free patients is now more
presnng than at any previous time.
** The need of larger accommodations for the various depart-
ments is very great. It is deemed by the trustees to be a matter
of absolute necessity to add to the hospital building a surgical
ward, a lying-in ward, and a children's ward ; and fimds are also
imperatively needed to maintain the work at its present point of
efficiency and success."
The existing hospital in Boston is very pretty, very weU
arranged, and tiie accommodation everything that could be desired
— so far as it goes. But the building is much too small for the
purposes of clinical teaching. It is as impossible to impart a
knowledge of disease, to teach diagnosis, and to enable a student
to be accurate in prognosis, without a large and well-Med
hoqiital, as it is to make bricks without straw. Fifty thousand
dollars will go a long way towards accomplishing what it is so desir-
able, especially in the interests of the large and efficiently-offieered
188 NOTABILU. "SSS&^S:??^
Bfltriev, Mv. 1, tB8L
medical department of the UniYenify, shonld be accompliahed —
bat five himdred thonBand dollars wonld be nearer the mark. For
besidea bnildingg, an endowment fond is essential to enable the
trostees to place free beds at the disposal of the staff. As it is,
the income of the hospital is famished, to too large an extent, bj
paying patients—by persons who, because they pay five, ten,
or fifteen dollars for attendance, nnrsing, and comforts, which in
their homes they could not obtain for treble these sums — object
to having their cases studied by students ! To be of service to
the medical department, the patients received must be numerous,
and all regarded as material for clinical study ; just as they are
in the City and Massachusetts General Hospitals. Without these
large institutions Harvard would be as ill provided with clinical
instruction as Boston is now.
Further, we would urge our friends in Boston to content them-
selves wiUi medical and surgical wards, leaving the lying-in
ward for a distant future. Lying-in wards, especially in a general
hospital, are often more dangerous to their inmates, more pro-
ductive of puerperal diseases than they are beneficiaL Yfhil^
students can study practical midwifery quite well in the houses
of the poor.
Trade has largely increased in the United States during the
last two years, the value of property of all kinds has been enor*
mously enhanced. Is there no one who has profited by all this
prosperity prepared to earn the gratitude of this and future gene-
rations by munificently endowing the Boston Homoaopathie
Hospital?
PBOFESSIONAL ADYERTISINQ.
The physicians of Boston, United States, have inaugurated a
measure of internal reform which the medical profession in
England would do wisely to imitate forthwith. They have for-
mulated a provision of tiieir ethical code to the effect that " a
physician should not append his name, or permit it to be
appended, to certificates in laudation of speculative health
resorts, health excursions, nutritive or dietetic preparations, pro-
prietary formulae, wines, mineral waters, beverages of real or
supposed medical efficiency, or other hygienic materials." This
is a sweeping and practical, but highly necessary, act of self-
purgation that the body to which we belong, and in the name of
which we claim to speak, sorely needs, and which would sensibly
enhance its social and scientific status. The growing practice of
attaching the names of members of our cloth to articles sold to
the pubhc has reflected no little discredit on the profession in
general, and on the individuals who have lent themselves to the
more than equivocal practice at which this timely lesolutbn has
SSSS'feTS?^ NOTABILU. 189
BcfTiew, Max. 1, ISBl.
been aimed. It is not important to inquire whether we in
England or our brethren in America or on the Continent are the
greatest offenders ; let it suffice to recognise that the procedure
IS an offence. There can be no room to question what tiie giving
or lending of names, colourably to accredit the places, remedies,
and appliances with which they are connected, really means, and
to what it amounts. The name of the person is more in
request and estimation than the name of the locality or article
to which it is prefixed or appended. When a physician allows
himself or others to affix lus imprimatur to anything which is
destined to be advertised, he is plainly permitting himself to be
advertised. It is useless to mince matters. This is the long
and short of the proceeding. Unless, therefore, the medical
profession is prepared to place itself on the footing of a
fraternity of tradesmen, advertised and recommended by the
goods they sell, a stop must, in some way, be put to this form of
touting.
We are not disposed to adopt impracticable views of the pro-
fessional life and its permanent interests. It may be assumed
that physicians must live, and live by their calling ; but there are
two totally distinct and divergent ways of seeking prosperity.
The practitioner may strive to make good his reputation by the
diligence and excellence of his work, or he may resort to forced
and artificial means of acquiring publicity. Practically there is
little, if any, difference between allowing a name to be embla-
zoned on ^e label of proprietary medicine, or printed at the
foot of a testimonial to the excellence of some article of com-
meroe, or inserted in the pages of a guide-book, and displaying
it on handbills to be distributed in the street. We will not hesi-
tate to say that when, as happens nearly every week, we are
asked to denounce the ** unprofessional conduct '' of some
struggling practitioner who, perhaps, touts for patients by the
distribution of printed cards or handbills, we are bound to
remember that some of the best known names in the profession
are advertised in a fashion not one whit less objectionable. It
may seem more respectable to advertise indirectly and under
cover of giving a guarantee to the value or purity of some drug
or dietetic compound, than to vaunt the skill of an individual
directly, but the practical question involved is at the most only
one of method. The deed done is the same under all its various
forms and disguises. We do not find barristers courting pub-
licity in this way. Why should physicians and surgeons, and the
practitioners of medicine generally, be less jealous of the dignity
of their calling than those who practise in the law ? It is time
to look this question of internal reform feurly in the face, to
recognise this artifice in its true character, and to reform it
alto^ther. — Lancet.
1^0 OBMUAEY. *%l!&^Sff'!»?Sg*
Barisw, Mar. 1» VBBL.
STATE HONOURS TO HOMCEOPATHS.
Wb learn from a statement in the Times of the 5th nit. that Dr«
Love, of Paris, the president of one of the French Homoeopathic
Medical Societies, has received the Legion of Honour. A mark
of distinction which, the Times correspondent says, is *' a trinmph
for homooopathy, which has created no little irritation in tiie
opposite camp." Dr. Love, who is of English extraction, has
for many years exgoyed a large and fashionable practice, and
occupied a leading position in Parisian society.
A similar honour has, we are informed by BibUotheque Uomao-
patliique^ been conferred upon another French colleague, M. le
Dr. Partenay.
A PRIESTLY ANATHEMA !
The Echo is responsible for the following singular statemeat : —
'< The parish priest of Sandonie,in the diocese of Eerida,Spai2i,ha8
declared from the pulpit that the last absolution, extreme unction
and Christian burial ^nll henceforth be refused to any parishioner
who allows himself, or wiiose kindred allow him to be treated by
any but duly qualified medical practitioners. All men, women,
or children who are treated homoaopatiucally will be deprived
of the rites of the Roman Catholic Church, and treated as Moors
or Jews." Has not this thorough-going partisan of traditional
medicine earned a special vote of thanks from the Irish College
of Surgeons for thus '^ Boycotting " the dead ?
OBITUARY,
WILLIAM FORBES LAURIE, M.D.
Db. Lauioe, who has for many years past practised homoeo-
pathically in Dunstable and its neighbourhood, died suddenly on
hxe 8rd of last October. He was bom at Budleigh Saiterton,
nearly seventy years ago. He received his earlier education at
Mill HiU Grammar School, and subsequentiy studied at Trinity
College, Dublin, and afterwards at the University of Edinburgh,
where he graduated in 1888.
During the last two years of his life he officiated as physician
to St. Saviour's Cancer Hospital, Osnaburg Street, an institution
in which he took much interest.
CORRESPONDENCE.
INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION.
To the Editors of the Monthly Uomceopathic Review.
GiBNTLBHXN, — ^I shall be much obliged if you will allow ma,
through your pages, to bring before our colleagues the following
outline of the probable business of the approaching gathering :—
MSSS'ST!^ COBBESPOHDBNCnE. 19l
B«vi0V, Mv. 1. IffiL
On Tuesdajy July 12th, after the President's address, the
reports horn the different countries as to the history of homoeo-
pathy for the last five years, and its present condition therein,
will be before the meeting, and discussion will be held on the
best modes of improving our position and farthering onr cause.
On Wednesday, the 18th, the Institutes of Homoeopathy and
Materia Medica form the subject of the day ; on Thursday, the
14th, Praotieal Medicine and GynsMology ; on Friday, the 15th,
Surgical Therapeutics, Ophthalmology, and Otiatrics. From the
papers under these headings, received or promised, the following
topics present themselves for discussion, and have been
(provisionally) adopted as a programme : —
Wednesday.
1. The selection of the remedy, with especial reference to
individuaUsation and generalisation.
2. Alternation.
8. The relative value of clinical and extra-clinical evidence
as to the efficiency of infinitesimal doses.
Thttbsday.
1 . Homoeopathy in hyper-acute diseases— dysentery, cholera,
yellow fever, and in hyper-pyrexia,
2. The possibilities of medicine in cancer.
8. The treatment of affections of the os and cervix uteri.
Fbidat.
1.
2. The treatment of iritis, simple and syphilitic.
8. The place of homoeopathic medication in ear disease.
It will be observed that the subject for discussion under the
head of Surgical Therapeutics remains a blank, Upon this
branch of our science we want papers. It is not so with the
others. We should not refuse fresh essays, if they were worth
acceptance ; but we have no need to invite them. Our object
in publishing the above information is to invite debaters on the
various topics. It will be remembered that the essays are not
to be read at the meetings, but printed beforehand, and furnished
to anyone who applies for them with the intention of taking part
in the discussion on their sulijects. I shall be glad to receive
the names of all such as soon as may be convenient, and will see
that they receive in good time the papers belonging to the
matter they select.
I am, Gentiemen,
Yours very faithfully
(For the Officers of the Oonvention),
HTffw^^^ HuaBis*
86, Sillwood Boad, Brighton.
Feb. 5th, 1881.
192 COMtBSPONDBNTB. "^Sn^^STifttK
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
,% We cannot undertake to return rejected manuteripte.
Dr. Blukbibo'b paper is in type, and vriH appear in onr next number.
INTEBNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIG CONVENTION.
Dr. Bates requoBts as to acknowledge subscriptions of a gninea each
from Dr. A. Btokbs, Dr. WooneAns, Dr. SRXPBmiu), Dr. Pubdox,
Dr. Stilxs, Dr. Samdbbbo, and Dr. Ebhkxdt (Newcastle).
Gommonications, Ac, haye been received from Dr. Batxs, Dr. Both,
Dr. GuTTEBiDaE, Gapt. Matoocx (London); Major Yaughah Moroah,
Dr. HuoHBS (Brighton) ; Dr. Hatward (Liverpool) ; Mr. Nobmah (Bath) ;
Dr. GuiNKEss (Oxford) ; Dr. Goopxb (London).
books received.
Report of tJie Bath Bom(eopatkie HoepitaL
Report of the Oxford Homaopathh Diepemary,
Homaopathie World. London.
The Chemist and DruggUt. London.
The Students* Jowmal and Hospital GazetU^
The American Homaopathie Observer. Detroit.
HomoMpathic Times, New York.
The Medical Call, Quincey, Illinois.
The Homesopathic Expositor. Ithaca, New York.
The New England Medical Gazette, Boston.
Hahnemannian Monthly. Philadelphia.
United States Medical InoestigtUor. Ghioago.
Homaopctthic News. St. Loois.
BuUetin de la Soc, Med. Horn, de France. Paris.
BUdiothtque HomoBopathique de France.
Revue Homaopathigue Beige. Broxelles.
AUgemeine Homdopathische Zeitung, Leipsic
HomHopathisehe Rundschau, Leipsic.
Rivista Omiopatica. Borne.
SI Criteria Medico. Madrid.
Bolitino Clinico. Madrid.
Papers, Dispensaiy Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. PoFS, Lee Boad, London, 8JE., or to Dr. D. Dtcx Bbown, 29, Seymour
Streety^ Portman Sqnare, W. Advertisements and Business Gommuni-
oations to be sent to Messrs. E. Gouu> A Son, 69, Moorgate Street, E.G.
iSiSJrSSnaw^'' PEOGBBgfl or HOMCEOPATHT. 198
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW.
THE PROGRESS OF HOMOEOPATHY.
That homoBopaUiy presents the physician with a means of
selecting drag-remedies^ snch as no other basis of pre-
scribing will afford him, is the experience of all who have
tested it and other methods. That homoeopathy is still
protested against as absurd, denounced as qnaokery, and
regarded as A deception by a large number of medical men,
is well known. It is, however, equally true that not a few
who ** pooh-pooh " it in an affectedly contemptuous manner,
prescribe homosopathically eveiy day of their lives, and
obtain their power so to do from works on homoBopathic
Materia Medica and practical medicine ! Practitioners of
this class are, probably, in at least one way, doing a greater
injury to the spread of a knowledge of homoaopathy than
are those who loudly and ignorantly declaim against it.
They are doing so, because their mode of practice is
supposed to be what it is not. They are believed by the
public, and by their medical brethren, to be opposed to
homceopathy ; and, so far from being supposed to practise
homcBopatbicaUy> are understood to be prescribing on the
lines of traditional medicine.
No. 4, Vol. 25. 0
194 PBOORBSS OP HOMCBOPATHY. "bSS^SSS?^
That these persons do a great deal of good to their
patients, is unquestionable. That such a svb rosd modo of
practising homceopathy should be an inevitable step in its
progress, may be admitted. But nevertheless, we cannot
ignore the fact that, through it, results are obtained which
are due to causes widely differing from those to which they
are ascribed. Such an error as this does much, we may be
sure, to sustain the reputation of the therapeutics of the
schools ; while, in proportion as it does so, is the progress
of homcBopathy hindered. It proves a difficulty in our
onward movement which was scarcely contemplated five
and twenty years ago. It is a difficulty which we can only
meet by making homoeopathy more clearly known, more
fully understood. The kind of practice to which we have
referred is, after all, only a phase of empiricism ; there is
nothing scientific, nothing rational about it, and hence
there is no real life in it.
Empiricism has its foundation in individual observation,
A physician has, for example, heard that ipecaciuiniM is a
good thing in vomiting. He is startled by the statement,
doubtless, for he has always regarded this drug as an
emetic. Bat he tries it in a case that has given him a
great deal of trouble, and that to very little purpose. The
ipecacuanlM at once cures his patient. Forthwith, it is
heralded forth as a remedy in vomiting, without the
slightest notion of a reason why it should be so, but simply
because some one had seen a certain number of persons, in
whom vomiting was a prominent symptom, recover after
taking it! As, however, vomiting arises from several
morbid states, and as ipecacuanlia will not, and does not
relieve this symptom under any and all circumstances, it
fails to do good in a proportion of instances. Where it will
do good, and where it will not, empiricism cannot predict.
Homcaopathy can.
S^rJS5i!!ww?* PBOaBBBS OF HOMOBOPATHT, 196
Ipecaeiianlta is perfectly homoeopathio to some eases,
to others it is not so at all. It is of this homoBopathic
relationship of the drug to the disorder, that the mere
empiricist is ignorant, it is his ignorance of this that
restricts his success in the use of the drug. He is sue-
eesaful occasionally he knows not why ; he fails now and
again, and cannot account for his failure. Precisely the
same may be said of a constantly increasing number
of medicines, such as puUatiUa, bryonia, nux vomicuy and
many others, [whose remedial actions have been learned
from the writings of homceopathic practitioners.
To direct attention to the missing link in the empirical
chain is now the great duty of the homoeopathic physician.
He, and he alone, can do so efifectively. The responsi-*
bility of extending a knowledge of the truth which under-
lies the selection of medicines as remedies in disease rests
upon him. Just in proportion as he is active in making
this truth known, wherever and however he can, will be
the length of time ere the prevalent empiricism, which has
its origin in homoBopathy, is converted into a scientific and
rational therapeusis.
How this can best be accomplished is a question which
ought to engage the earnest consideration of all who desire
to see their profession become more useful, and the treat-
ment of disease everywhere based upon the solid rock of
Boience.
Every means should be employed to induce medical men
to study homoeopathy, to understand what it really is, and
to see the connection which exists between some of the
curative properties of some of the most approved remedies
and the diseases they are known to cure.
In London two Institutions exist, the chief object of the
one and the sole purpose of the other being to supply
9— ^
196 PROGRBBS OP HOMCEOPATHY. ^USS^^^^ulm,
opportimities for affording the very information we desire
to disseminate.
We claim for the London Hom(eopathio Hospital and the
London School of Hom(eopatht the hearty support of all
who desire the extension of a knowledge of homoBopathy —
and we feel sore that we shall have it. There may he those
who would wish that some things were differently managed
in hoth. There is probably room for improvement in each.
Bat we maintain that in these institutions the time,
thought, and energy of men who are abundantly worthy
of confidence, have long been, and still are, deyoted to
rendering them serviceable in promoting a knowledge of
homoeopathy. When we have good reason to know that
such is the case, when we are also assured that any prac-
ticable suggestions for increasing their efiSciency will be
heartily welcomed and fully consideredy surely we ought to
sustain the hands of those who direct them in every way
in our power !
Never before was our Hospital in such good condition as
it is now ; never were its wards better supplied with cases
suitable as material for clinical instruction than they are
to-day. An attempt made some time back to account for
its low rate of mortality, on the hypothesis that the cases
admitted were not of a serious order, met with a refutation
which was unanswerable. Endeavours (which, we regret
to say, some homoeopathic practitioners have been found
capable of making) to depreciate the value of our hospital
on these very grounds, have proved equally futile. True,
a few years ago, the cases admitted were small in number,
mostly chronic in their nature, and devoid of interest from
a clinical point of view. But it is far otherwise now. An
average of forty-five occupied beds is maintained, and the
patients exhibit nearly every form of acute, non-contagious
S^r^twS?* raOGRBSS OF HOBKEOPATHY. 197
disease; thus affording ample scope for the study of
homoeopathic therapeutics.
To the Bustentation, the extension and the utilisation,
for clinical teaching, of this important and well-ordered
charity, we must deyote ourselyes with eyer increasing
energy. It is not, as we haye frequently remarked in these
pages, a merely local charity about which we haye to concern
ourselyes, but one of proportions much more far-reaching ;
it is a national institution. It is the only hospital in the
country which offers facilities for the clinical study of
homoeopathy; the only one in which arrangements are
made for this purpose.
Just in proportion as our desire that our allopathic
medical brethren should enquii*e into the merits of homoeo-
pathy is a real anxiety, and not a merely sentimental wish,
will be the degree of actiye interest we take in the pros-
perity of the London Homoeopathic Hospital.
Equally entitled to our support, haying equal claims
upon us to do all in our power to extend its sphere of
usefulness, is the London School of Homceopathy. The
period of fiye years, during which it was originally intended
that it should remain in operation under the constitution
then framed for it, expires in the ensuing winter, and
we haye heard that the committee intend to propose that
some alterations shall now be made in this respect.
The idea that the late Dr. Quin had when he founded
the hospital was that from it a medical school should be
deyeloped. Many years ago an effort was made in this
direction* From some cause or other — ^it would be useless
now to enquire too closely as to what that cause was — ^the
attempt failed. When a determined effort to resuscitate
the public teaching of homoeopathy was made fiye or sis
years ago by Dr. Bayes, and fully discussed at the Clifton
198 FB0OBE88 OF HOMCEOPATHT. ^'^L^!:!S?^^
aeviev, ApdL 1. IflBl.
Congress in 1876, a large majority of the members present
recommended that it should be kept separate and distinet
from the hospital. The feeling of want of confidence in
the hospital, which was so painfully obyious thronghout
the meetings of that day, rendered it impossible to nnite
the two institutions without imperilling the safety of both.
Consequently a separate committee and a separate staff of
officials haye managed each. The increased expense and
labour thus inyolyed have been considerable, and it has
been obvious for some time that, if possible, it would be
most desirable that the work of both hospital and school
should be directed by one board. This, which was im-
possible five years ago, is perfectly practicable now. Much
greater confidence is felt by homoeopathic practitioners in
the hospital than was the case then, and we believe that,
were our colleagues in the country to visit the hospital and
inspect the work done there, this confidence would be yet
greater still. And, further, there is no doubt at all in
the minds of those who have watched the progress of the
hospital recently that it has been greatly benefited by the
influence the school has had upon it. We do not assert
that it is perfect — that it is in every respect all we could
desire that it should be. Nothing of human contrivance
is. Probably a carping, cynical, perpetually fault-finding
critic might be able to discover opportunities therein for
the display of powers of mischief-making ; but that it is
doing a really useful work, that with simple fair play it has
within it the power to do much more, and that it is fully
entitled to the confidence of all who feel a genuine
interest in the progress and development of homceopathy,
is incontestable.
Such being the case, we can see no objection to a
proposal, should such an one be made, to unite the
hospital and school under one management, provided (as
iS^5Sn«*?* PB0GBBS8 OP HOM(BOPATHT. 199
we believe it is intended shoold be the case) that the funds
are kept separate.
Farther, there appears to be some likelihood that a
coarse of leotnres on Clinical Medicine will be sabstitnted
for that on Systematic Medicine, which has been deliyered
by Dr. Dygb Bbown daring the last fire years. This, and
the oonrse on Materia Medica, would in that case form the
medical school department of the London Homceopathic
Hospital*
The lecturer on Clinical Medicine must of coarse be one
of the physicians to the hospital, and should be selected
from among the staff by the medical governors of the school.
For the lectureship on Materia Medica, all homceopathic
practitioners, whether attached to the staff of the hospital
or not, ought to be eligible, and should be chosen by the
same constituency.
An arrangement of this kind will, we think, meet the
views of all who ace prepared to rest content with a scheme
for the public teaching of homoeopathy that is practicable.
Others, whose aspirations are of a more Utopian order, who
would have us desist from such teaching until we can obtain
for our lectures the recognition of one or more of the
licensing boards, will of course not be satisfied. This we
regret, but cannot very well avoid.
Neither can we look for the sympathy of the few, and
they are happily very few, who deprecate the public teaching
of homoeopathy in any way. This of course is hopeless.
Nevertheless, we feel sure that, if all those medical men
who, practising homoeopathy, desire above most things to
take an active part in hastening the adoption and practice
of homoeopathy by the entire profession of medicine, will
but exert themselves to bring before allopathic medical men
and students of medicine, the importance of enquiring into
homoeopathy, and the advantages offered to them by the
200 PROaBESS OF HOM<EOPATHT. ^^S^^jgSuw^.
hospital and sohool, there ia a large field of asefol work
still in store for both.
It is interesting, and encouraging also, to remember that
in his efforts to establish the London HomoBopathic
Hospital, the late Dr. Qum encountered no small measure
of opposition, one he described as ** violent and unpro-
Yoked." That opposition the hospital has now completely
surmounted. No one, we believe, can be said to wish it
anything but prosperity, and if all will but exert themselTes
to promote its interests, its prosperity is assured.
The London School of Homodopathy during the five
years of its existence has had to go through much ihe
same experience as did the hospital. It has been the
subject of much '^ violent and unprovoked opposition."
And, like the hospital, it has not succumbed to detractors.
It has not succeeded in accomplishing its purpose so fully
as its friends hoped that it would have done, and have
earnestly laboured that it should do. Such lack of success
as it has endured has, however, been entirely due to its
detraction by a few who profess to desire that homceopathy
should be better understood and more generally known 1
Albeit, some of the most active and bitter of these gentle-
men have rarely, if ever, done anything calculated to give
practical shape to their wishes. Hard words, it is saidf
break no bones ; but the persevering application of con«
temptuouB epithets to an institution by men« whose pro-
fessions would lead most to suppose that it was one that
would have their hearty support, is well calculated to retard
its progress and hinder its usefulness. For such persons
to speak in terms of ridicule of an institution designed to
teach homoeopathy is certain to render the best efforts to
promote its efficiency nugatory to some extent.
To describe the school as a '' farce,*' a ** sham," and a
'' so-called ** school might be expected from bitter oppo-
lSSS?5SrSw!^ PB0GBB8S OF HOMCBOPATHY. 201
nentfl of homcBopathy. It is not from suoh, however^ that
we have heard these UDJUBt, contemptuous and oppro-
brious epithets ; but from a few who haye long professed
to belieye in homoeopathji who have ever expressed their
desire for its propagation, from some who owe eyeiythingt
position, reputation, power to control disease, to homoB-
opathy, but at the same time — as might perhaps be
expected — ^men to whom the present position of homos*
opathy in this country owes but little, and its practical
development still less.
From other quarters a certain amount of opposition,
bat of a totally different order, has come, though it has,
nnibrtunately, rather assisted than counteracted such as
that we have just described. Some have thought that we
have not auned high enough, that we should be satisfied
with nothing less than the recognition of our lectures as
port of the medical curriculum by the licensing boards.
We have shown oyer and over again that anything of this
kind is, in the meantime, impracticable and impossible.
We must mount the lower steps of the ladder before we
can reach the highest. Opponents of this type do, we
know, not only profess, but really desire, the extension of
homoeopathy ; and we feel that the school has a right to
their full support if only on the ground that the method
porsued by it at present is the only one that is at the
moment practicable. While, if we can make the present
method of teaching successful, there is a reasonable hope
that the plan which they desire to see in operation may in
the end be carried out»
In spite, however, of all the opposition that the school
has encountered, the foundations of an institution for
teaching practical homosopathy have, during the last five
years, been securely laid. A sum of money has been
obtained, the suitable investment of which will go some
a02 FBOOfiESS OF HOU<EOPATHT. ^g^.^SiTtm!
Beiiew, April 1, 1881.
way towards defrayiiig the fdtiire expenses of a sdiooL
This sum has been derived, not firom annual sabscriptions
(which haye been expended as they have been receiyed),
bat from donations of £10 and upwards. It now amounts
to about £2,000. The interest of this, together with the
annual subscriptions that will be continued and, it is
hoped, added to, will suffice to pay the rent of the lectoxe
room, salary of the lecturer on GUnical Medicine, the
honorarium to the Hahnemann lecturer, and the general
expenses incidental to carrying on a public institution.
We have, then, good reason for asserting that the
foundations of the school have been securely laid, and^
provided that all who desire the progress of homceopathy
will give it their countenance and support, it will in a few
years become an institution exerting a wide and beneficial
influence.
The work of initiating the school was no small one,
while that of carrying it on in spite of much unkindly and
ungenerous censure, regardless of the imputation of sinister
motives, and tmdeterred by efforts (which we will not
qualify) to render the school a failure, would have tried the
courage and constancy of most of us. Few, we think,
would, from a simple and sincere desire to extend the
advantages of homoeopathy, have gone through so much
laboar, have borne with so much obloquy as Dr. Bates
has done in founding and carrying into effective operation
the London School of Homoeopathy. He has, we know,
felt fully assured that in this work he has, save in a few
matters of detail, had the complete^ confidence and hearty
support of the large majority of his homoeopathic brethren.
Men who are thoroughly in earnest in pursuing a useful
object, are apt at all times to go a-head a little too fast.
But in pressing forward and in carrying out a well defined
and perfectly practicable scheme for the public teaching of
S!5SSf SSTi^ PB0GRB8S OP HOM<BOPATHY. 1208
homoBopathy, Dr.BAYEshaBhad, and that most deBerTedly,
the support of hy far the larger proportion of his homos o*
pathic medical brethren.
The work he has done has been accomplished in as
thoronghly disinterested a manner as any could have been
done. By undertaking the conduct of this moyementi
Dr. Bates had nothing whatever to gain, save the
consciousness that he was doing good, that he was doing that
which was calculated to extend a knowledge of homoeopathy.
That work of this kind should pass unacknowledged,
unrecognised, would be discreditable indeed to those the
fulfilment of whose desire it has been designed to accom-
plish. We are happy to know that it will not so pass.
Dr. Bayes being about to retire from London practicOi
the opportunity has been deemed a fitting one for his
medical brethren to express to him, in a public manner,
their sense of the services he has rendered to homoBopathy,
not only in establishing the London School of Homodo-
pathy, but in devoting much time and thought to the
sustentation of our hospital. That this recognition of the
efforts he has put forth may be made as effectively as
possible, forty homoDopathic practitioners have invited him
to a dinner to be given in his honour at the Grosvenor
Oallery, in Bond Street, on Wednesday, the 27th of this
month. We trust that there will be on that occasion a
large gathering of homoeopathic practitioners, both from
London and the country, to join in this demonstration of
gratitude to Dr. Bates. Several gentlemen, unconnected
with the medical profession, who, having warmly supported
Dr. Bates in his efforts to promote homoeopathy, have
expressed not only their hearty concurrence in this step,
but their desire to take part in it, will also be present.
Wo trust that the occasion will be one which will stimu-
late all who are interested in the progress of homoeopathy
to more thorough co-operation, more real unity of action,
in the development of institutions whose sole aim is to
extend a knowledge of homoeopathy, and to make its
practical advantages more widely felt.
204 MATEBIA MEDICA. '^gj&Sff^.
HOW TO STUDY THE MATERIA MEDICA.*
By ALrBED C. Pope, M.D.,
Leetarer ob Materia Mediea at the Lcmdon School of Homisopathy.
In concluding my lectures for this session, I must express
my regret that I have not heen ahle to bring before you the
actions and uses of a larger number of drugs than I haye
done. My aim, howeyer, has been, as I stated that it
would be in my introductory discourse, '' to bring under
your notice as many of those drugs which haye receiyed a
fall experimental inyestigation, as our time will allow me
to do, with some approach to thoroughness." I am quite
aware that I have but barely succeeded in making an
approach to thoroughness, in my survey of each drug*8
action, but I trust that, so far as I have gone» I may have
been of some help to you in your further study of homoBO-
pathy.
My endeavour has been rather to show you how you
may, as I think most advantageously, study the Materia
Mediea for yourselves, than to go cursorily through a large
number of drugs. To have brought under your notice the
entire series of medicines which, having been experimented
with on the healthy body, have beeir rendered available for
the use of the homoeopathic practitioner, would have been
impossible. Hence, it appeared to me that it would be
more useful to you, were I to describe the properties of
some of the most important, in such a manner as to give
you an idea of the way in which all should be studied.
The great secret of scientific success in medicine lies in
" precision."
Precision in diagnosis will prevent you making many
mortifying blunders. Precision in the selection of medicines
will enable you to make many gratifying cures. This
precision can, in the latter instance, only be secured by a
careful individualisation of each case, and of each remedy.
I have repeatedly impressed this upon you during the last
six months, and most earnestly do I desire that you should
leave this lecture room with that word individuaUsatian
ringing in your ears.
* The condading portion of the final lecture on Materia Mediea, at the
London School ol Homoaopathy, March Uth,1881.
S^JS«rS^ MATERIA MBDICA. 205
B0vlev, April 1, 1831.
Remembering this word, and ever acting npon its fall
meaning, yon will become accnrate prescribers of medicines,
and being so will be snocessfal practitioners.
Study then your cases, and examine your Materia Medica
with the object of indiyidualising. When you have formed
a clear conception of the nature of your patient's ailments,
you will, from the knowledge you haye already acquired,
and by further reading may presently acquire, readily recog-
nise the group of meddcines, the patiiogeneses of which will
most probably correspond to the condition you are anxious
to cure. Take then that group of medicines, and compare
the symptoms each produces with those presented by the
case before you.
Do this repeatedly, do this as often as you can, and,
belieye me, you will obtain a knowledge of Materia Medica,
a facility in handling remedies, and a success in the treats
ment of disease, which will far more than reward you for
the trouble you haye taken in endeayouring to secure it.
This kind of work must be pursued perseyeringly.
Directly a homoaopathic physician comes to the conclusion
that his knowledge of Materia Medica is sufficient for ^' all
practical purposes '' — as the phrase goes — and forthwith
allows his Materia Medica and Repertory to become dusty
from disuse, then and there does his success in the treat-
ment of disease begin to wane. The number of patients
cured will become smaller, in proportion to those prescribed
for, than they were wont to be ; he will gradually lapse into
the occasioned, and then the frequent use of palliatiyes, and,
disappointed that his cases do not turn out so well as they
did preyiously, he will presently resort to gross doses of
empirically chosen drugs, until the difference between his
prescriptions, and also between his success, and the pre-
scriptions and success of his allopathic neighbours, will be
but eomparatiyely slight.
I remember an exceedingly well informed homoeopathio
physician, who died a few years ago, saying to me on one
occasion that he did not then make such good cures as
when he first began to practise homoeopathy, and the reason
he gaye was, that his early success had brought him so
large a practice, that he had not then time to study his
cases, by the light of the Materia Medica, so thoroughly
as he did when his success in treatment was greater. *' In
the early days," he said, *' we went to the Materia Medica
for eyery case. Now when do we go ? *'
a06 MATBRIA MBDIOA. ^'S^^iSS^wn.
Then, gentlemeiiy I mge yon once mote, while yon htye
yet time, while pttiento are oompantiYely few, I mrge yoa
to examine the Materia Medioa in yonr aeueh for each
medicme yon pieseriba. Compare tiie symptoms of the
disease, with those provoked by the dmg in health, and
pieseribe that whicb eonesponds most closely to yonr
patient's case.
Allen's Encydopadia of Materia Mediea is a stnpen*
dons work, one that has an oyerwhelming appearance.
Bnt, after all, it is not, as the yonng lady of the period
Tery commonly observes, so *' awfdlly awfnl " as it looks.
It is an expensive work, bnt it will repay the practitioner
who possesses it over and over again in a very short time.
It is the only collection of drag pathogeneses extant from
which yon can gather a conception of the valne of the
symptoms recorded. I need hardly say that, in snch a
Tast store-honse, the grains of wheat are not all of eqnal
valne ; some are yeiy small, some are monldy, others are
imperfectly formed. Bnt by a reference to the sonrce of a
symptom — and all snch sonrces are there given — yon can
learn whether it was taken from a case of poisoning, or
from a Tolnntaiy proving, or from a case of disease in
which the dmg prescribed was held accountable for its pro-
dnction. Yon also learn the dose which was used in most
instances ; and, farther, yon know the name of the physi-
cian who is responsible for the record. These facts enable
yon to gather some idea of the valne of each.
Of the great ntility of this Eneyclopadia^ and of the
feasibility of studyiog it, as a work of reference, I am con-
stantly feeling more and more assured. None, that I
know of, equals it ; nay, more, none approaches it in its
value.
I have spoken so far of the Encyclopedia as a work of
reference ; I must, however, make a remark or two on,
what appears to me to be, the best way for a student of
Materia Mediea to study it.
Take, for example, the list of medicines in Dr. Hughes'
Pharmacodynamics, and endeavour to fEuniliarise yourselves
with their differentue in the following manner. Bead
a chapter in Dr. Hughes' work on one of these drugs, say,
for example, phosphortis. Dr. Hughes gives yon an
admirable account of the uses, and probable mode of
action of this drug. What more, you will p^haps say,
then, do we want? Yon want, I reply, not only an
SSi^SSftl^ MATBWA MBDICA. 207
Mqnaintanoe with the names of the diseases to which
phosphorus is homoBopathic, and the post mortem
appearances present in persons poisoned by it, with
the interpretations^ physiology^ and pathology, ad at
present considered, supply ; bat yon want to know what
are the spedal symptoms produced by phosphorus on the
healthy body, which haye led to its being successfully
piesoribed in the diseases named. This you can only
disoover by reading the symptoms recorded in the proving,
and comparing them with those that mark the disease it is
known to cure. Take, for example, the symptoms generally
marking the course of a case of pneumonia, and see how
far and to what kind, what variety of pneumonia, the
symptoms excited by phosphorus on the circulation, the
air passages, and the lungs correspond. In what degree,
and in what sense, they are like them.
Endeavour also, from studying groups of symptoms and
cases of slight poisoning, or well reported provings, to
ascertain the kind of alteration in the general condition of
a person's health a given drug will produce. See to what
this leads up. Notice especially the symptoms most
frequently recurring in the pathogenesis of a drug. These
you will generally find to be those which are the most
characteristic of its action. For example, in the instance
of ptdsatiUa, of which I gave you some account ten days
ago, you will find that a certain form of dyspepsia attended
nearly every morbid state simulated by the action of the
drug: The symptoms of headache, catarrh, amennorrhoea,
leucorrhosa, gout, and rheumatism, which have indicated it
M a medicine in these disorders, have all been attended by
more or less dyspepsia of the kind produced by pvlsatUla.
On the other hand, you will meet with drugs, such as
svlphuTy caicarea, &e., which seem to have a decided in-
fluence over every organ and tissue of the body. The
difficulty of finding a primitive action, out of which all the
rest are dedudble, is well-nigh impossible in these sub-
stances,— or rather, I should say, has been found to be so,
so fEur, — ^for nothing would appear to be impossible to the
future.
Thus, if you will study the Materia Medica from a
clinical point of view, and also each drug as a whole in
reference to the phases of disease which it has been known
to cure, you willy I am sure, in time gain a mastery of the
Bubject---one, second in importance to none in the sue-
208 MATBMA MBDIOA, ^g^ ^giSTwi!
oessfal practice of the art of medicine ; a mastery which
yon will find to be of incalculable advantage to you.
Pathology is an inyaluable, but still an imperfect science.
Upon it you must base your diagnosis of disease, and upon
it, conjointly with what you know of the effects of remedies,
will your prognosis be formed. From it, likewise, will you
obtain the knowledge which will enable you to form groups
of medicines in reference to particular forms of disease.
But no known pathological facts will enable you to distin-
guish between the pneumonia curable by pho$phorti$, that
requiring hryonioy and that which alone will yield to taariar
emetic. A study of the symptoms and physical' signs of
pneumonia will inform you that an inflammatory process is
going on in the air cells of the lungs. A study of tihe action
of these three drugs will also lead you to believe that a
similar condition will be set up by them. But there are
no known pathological facts which will enable you to ascer-
tain which of these drugs will cure a given case of that
disease, and which will not. This question can only be
answered by a careful comparison of the symptoms pro-
duced by each with that presented by the case before you.
And if this be true of so well understood a disease as
pneumonia, how much more true is it of those complex
cases of chronic disease that ever and anon come under
our notice, cases on which pathology has as yet shed but
little light — cases where anything like a diagnosis at once
comprehensive and accurate is well nigh impossible?
Here, most assuredly, the only way in which you can find
a drug-remedy is by a comparison of the symptoms of
disease with Uiose of a drug. Happily, it is not merely
the only way, but this only way is, when carefully carried
out, a safe, and in very many cases, a sure way.
Such, then, is the etatm prasene. What the future
may have in store for us I, of course, cannot say. It
would be a matter for great rejoicing could we give a
rational interpretation of every phenomenon occurring in
disease and in drug action. This is the goal towards
which all scientific investigations in the realm of practical
medicine are pressing, but it is far distant yet. Mean-
while, however, people get ill and require to be cured to
the best of our existing ability ; and therefore, meanwhile,
we must, to a very large extent —one sufficiently humbling
to our pride — ^take our cue from the objective and sub-
jective symptoms of a patient in selecting, from a group or
S!S5^SSTSSS!" MATEBU MBDIOA, 209
series of medicines, that which produces a condition most
nearly resembling the one before ns.
That the labour of acquiring a satis&ctory knowledge of
Materia Medica is irksome and tedious, I know fall well
— but I am equally sure that it is obtainable, and that too
from the prorings as presented in Hahnemann's manner —
objectionable as I admit that it is. Therefore do not be dis-
couraged. Oo to your Materia Medica determined to
master it — resolved that you will master it — and you will
succeed. The difficulties, you will feel^ have been felt by
all of us, and just in proportion as we have been successful
in the treatment of disease have they been overcome by us.
The late Dr. Wurmb, of Vienna, than whom few, if any,
have ranked higher as successful physicians, few, if any,
have worked harder, or with better results, in the develop-
ment of homoeopathy, has said, '' I am not ashamed to
acknowledge, that if, when I commenced the study of
homoeopathy, I had not had the most intimate conviction
of the truth and excellence of the homoeopathic funda-
mental law, such were the difficulties in the study of the
Materia Medica, that they would have been near repelling
me from it altogether." *
We must yield then to the necessity imposed upon us,
and yield earnestly too. And let us remember, that, diffi-
cult as may be our work in this department of medicine
when performed, as it ought to be performed, Wurmb and
those who, like him, have most keenly felt the difficulties
involved in wading through, and obtaining a clear concep-
tion of the meaning of the many thousandis of indicationes
morbi contained in the provings of Hahnemann and his
early disciples, are the very men who of all others most
clearly understand the actions of the drugs comprising our
Materia Medica.
When then you are told, as you perhaps will be told by
some, that the Homoeopathic Materia Medica, as it stands,
is impossible of comprehension, do not credit the statement.
It is not true. Rather believe that '' what man has done,
man can do."
Therefore do it.
And now, Gentlemen, I must bid you farewell, sincerely
trusting that a very prosperous future may be in store for
each of you.
* (Eest ZeiU fUr Hom!^,, Bd. I., Hft. 3, a. 27.
Ko. 4, Vol. 2S. p
210 MATEBU MKDICA, 'S^^^^gg^gg
The class this jear has been bat a small one. There
are, however, great difficnlties, as yon all know, in the way
of indacing medical men and medical students to stndy
homoeopathy. And, nnfortonately, there are other diffi-
culties in the way of the pnblic teaching of homcBopathy,
which have been raised by a few homceopathic practi-
tioners ; and, I fear, that of the two sets of difficulties, the
latter are the more serious, as they certainly are the more
disheartening.
But I firmly believe that patient perseverance in well
doing will enable us to surmount them all, and that, in
the near future, the London HomcDopathic Hospital and
Medical School may attract to its waids and lecture room
a considerable number of earnest enquirers into the
principles and practice of homoeopathy. To that end, I
and my coUeagues who lecture here, will, you may rely upon
it, spare no trouble, evade no labour.
It only remains ifbr me to announce that Dr. Richabd
Hughes intends to commence a course of lectures here, on
the 8rd of May, upon Hahnemann's Organon of Medicine,
a work with which all medical men ought to be thoroughly
familiar. One which, inasmuch as it is not easy to be
understood, requires to be read for the first time with an
experienced commentator, and sure I am that no one is
better qualified for this task than Dr: Hughes.
It is a work, the effect of which upon the mind has often
reminded me of the Falls of Niagara. At the first sight of
the stupendous cataracts, the observer fsdls to see much ;
he is, in fact, somewhat disappointed, they do not come up
to his expectation — ^but the longer he gazes upon them, the
more does his sense of their magnitude increase ; while, as
he takes different points of vantage-ground from whence to
view them, he comes to feel himself in the presence of one
of the grandest of nature's works.
So it is with the Organon of the Healing Art, by Samuel
Hahnemann.
When read for the first time, its apparently exaggerated
denunciation of traditional therapeutics, its necessarily
antiquated physiology and pathology, and above all its dog-
matic style, render it repulsive ; but the oftener you read it
the more clearly you understand it, and the more will you
admire the profound learning it reveals, the prescience and
ingenuity it displays. Hahnemann was greatly in advance of
the day in which he lived, and nowhere is his position in
JSSlSfigSnStt^ HOMCEOPATHY AND ALLOPATHY. 211
this respect rendered more diBiinctly than it is in the
Organan,
All this, and much more to your advantage, you will
have an opportunity of learning from Dr. Hughes, who is,
as we aH know, singularly well qualified for the accomplish-
ment of the task he has, at so much personal incon-
venience and labour, undertaken to perform. I trust that
he will be rewarded by a full class room, and I hope that
you will use what influence you may possess to induce
others to avail themselves of this opportunity of rightly
understanding and correctly appreciating the great work of
the greatest physician of this century.
I hope to be able to resume my lectures on Materia
Medica here on the 6th of October.
WHAT ARE HOMCEOPATHY AND ALLOPATHY.
By a Physioun,
^^^ •
Who has practised Homoiopathically for a quarter of a
century.
What are homoeopathy and allopathy ? They are the two
principal modes of medical practice. Allopathy is the old,
and homoeopathy is the new mode of practice. The old
method professes to be based on the " Traditions of the
Fathers ; '' and the new to be based upon a ** Law of
Nature."
Both '' schools '' use, or enforce the use of, drugs or
medicines, and hygiene or sanitary rules and appliances ;
and of surgical means. In the use of surgical means and
hygiene both schools are on a par. All surgical and
hygienic means and appliances are common to both schools,
and both have an equal right to use them ; and the use and
employment of surgical and hygienic means does not differ
materially in the two schools. What difference there is,
is that the old school has carried the use of surgical means,
and the new school the use of hygienic means, to the
greater perfection.
In what, then, do the two schools differ ? And what is
the distinguishing characteristic of each ? They differ in
the use they make of drugs — in the manner of using drugs,
and the quantity of the drug they introduce into the
patient's body.
F-«
I
212 HOM(EOPATHT ASD ALLOPATHT. *S^,^SS?im!
But what are drags ? Drugs are sabstances which, when
introdnced into the healthy body, derange it — ^make it
unhealthy, that is, increase or diminish, or pervert some of
the natond actions of the body, or the action of some of
its parts. In order to be a drog, a substance must possess
the power to derange or make unhealthy some of the
healthy actions of the body ; that is, it must be more or
less a poison. This is the essential nature of a drug;
namely, that it is less or more a poison. Drugs differ,
however, in the degree and kind of their poisonous powers ;
each deranges or destroys the healthy action of the body or
mind in its own peculiar way, and with its own peculiar
degree of rapidity or slowness. Of prussic ctcid, for
instance, one drop will kill an adult within a few minutes ;
of arsenic, a few grains in solution will kill within a few
hours or days; of mercury (corrosiye sublimate) a few
scruples will produce death within a few days, or weeks ;
and so on with other drugs. Some drugs, as tartar emetic
and ipecacuanha, will pervert the action of che stomach of
a healthy man, and msJce him vomit ; others, as jalap and
senna, will pervert the action of the bowels and produce
diarrhoea ; others, as opium and belladonna, will pervert the
action of the brain, some in one way, some in another ;
belladonna to produce delirium; opium, sleep; tea and
coffee, wakefulness; and others, as Indian hemp, will
pervert the mind.
Now all these drug effects are poisonous, and if continued
long, or greatly increased, might induce veiy disastrous
results.
But why does ipecacuanha produce vomiting, and jalap
purging ; and why does opium produce sleep and belladonna
delirium ? We cannot tell why ; we only know that they do
so ; and we only find this out by experience — ^by their being
taken either accidentally or purposely.
And why does it take scruples of corrosive sublimate to
kill, and that not more rapidly than in a few weeks or days,
when a few grains of arsenic will kill within a few days or
hours, and a drop of prussic add will kill in a few minutes ?
We cannot tell why, and only know that these things are
so; and that only by accident or experience, or by the
testimony of others. No examination of their structure will
reveal the reason, and no amount or subtilty of analysing
of them can find out. To the most expert chemist or
physiologist one would be quite as likely as the other, and
bL^S^jSSTmm!^ HOM(E0PATHy AND ALLOPATHY. 213
quite as unlikely. To experience, and to experience only,
mnst we appeal. It is, in fact, to common experience we
are indebted for most of the drugs known up to very recent
times. Experiments purposely made — scientific experi-
menting for the discovery of the powers of drugs and
medicines — is of very modem date ; it was, in fact, utterly
unknown until Hahnemann inaugurated it.
In the infancy of our race, common experience revealed
to mankind that certain herbs and other substances acted
injuriously if eaten or drunk when they themselves were
healthy ; and these substances were thenceforward avoided
or shunned, and named poisons and drugs. But common
experience, or accident, also taught our ancestors that
certain herbs and other substances acted beneficially when
taken during sickness ; that, indeed, the same substances
which were poisons to them when they were well, were
medicines to them when they were sick ! Which knowledge
Shakspeare has made immortal in the following lines : —
" In poison there is physic ; and these news,
Having been well, that wonld have made me sick,
Being sick, have in some measure made me well."
And as to illness, common experience taught our fore-
fathers that they were liable to upsets of the stomach by
taking improper food ; to taking cold by exposure ; and to
fevers and inflammations and various painful diseases.
And as to the curative powers of drugs, the same common
experience, or accident, taught them that the herbs or
drugs that produce vomiting of the dangerous articles of
food give relief of stomach-attacks brought on by offending
articles of diet ; also, that afber these articles of food had
passed into the bowels, and there produced pain, herbs and
drugs that purge them out give relief thereby ; also, that
in fever, herbs and drugs that produce sweating tend to
relieve the fever; also, that headaches, backaches, and
other painfal diseases not unfrequently subside after free
vomiting, purging, or sweating ; and, iiideed, that the very
same substance that would produce vomiting, or purging,
or sweating, &c., when they were well, also would not un-
frequently cure these diseases when they had been brought
on by some other cause.
These observations, discoveries, and experiences were
not lost on our forefathers, but were treasured up and
transmitted from father to son, from one generation to
another, so as gradually to accumulate ana make up a
214 HOMCEOFATHY AND ALLOPATHY. 'S^.^SSifSi!
goodly store of *' traditions of the fathers," and form a
kind of '' traditional " medical system ; so that by the time
of Hippocrates [bom b.c. 460], styled "the &ther of
medicine/' they afforded sufficient data to enable him to
make two grand generalisations as to the action of medi-
cines, namely, that in some cases they act as contrarieSi
and in some cases as similars. "He makes," says his
translator, the learned allopathic physician. Dr. Adams,
** the important remark that, although the general rale of
treatment be ' contraria contrariis curantur/ the opposite
rale also holds good in some cases, namely, ^ gimiUa
simUibm curantur^ It thus appears that the principles
of both allopathy and homcBopathy were recognised by the
author of this treatise."
Now, these two principles of allopathy and homoeopathy
have become the names of the two main divisions of the
medical profession. Allopathy means using drugs that act
oppositely or diffierently, and homoeopathy means using
drugs that act similarly ; that is, that in the treatment of
disease allopathic practitioners use drugs that act either on
other parts of the body than those that are affected, or, if
on the same parts, act in a different way, or opposite way ;
whilst homoeopathic practitioners use those drugs that not
only act upon the same parts, but act in a similar way to
the disease itself. For instance : —
I. AUopatky, — If a patient has had some anxiety or
over-mental work which has produced headache, instead of
giving him a drug that acts directly or specifically on the
brain or its vessels which have been exhausted or dilated
by the anxiety or over- work, allopathic practitioners give
him a drug that acts on the bowels — a purgative — ^which
gives him a temporary diarrhoea into the bargain.^
If an infant, by taking cold, gets croup, instead of
administering a drug that acts on the windpipe (which is
the part inflamed), allopathic practitioners give emetics,
which act on the stomach and produce vomiting ! If by
taking cold an adult gets inflammation of the kidneys,
instead of giving him a drug that acts on the kidneys they
* In the report, in TJte Lancet, of Nov. 27th, 1880, of a case treated
in the Leeds Infirmary, by one of tiie leading surgeons — a case of
concussion of the brain, resulting from a kidk on &e head by a horse, and
which was so severe that the patient was unoonscioas — the reporter
boasts that, *' rest in bed, low diet, and free purgation, was the only
treatment."
B^f^SftwS^ HOM(EOPATHt AND ALLOPATHY. 216
give him purgatives, which give him diarrhoea as well ; or
sndorifics, wluch indnce excessive or morbid action of the
skin — sweating !
The theory is, that by producing these medicinal diseases,
that is, setting up disease in other parts, they divert the
natural disease to less vital parts — ^veritable allopathy;
aUo8 — other. The power of drugs to produce disease;
that is, to morbidly force on, suppress, or pervert the
natural actions of the body, is that for which allopathic
practitioners use them* And for this purpose they classify
drugs according to the morbid action they produce — as
stimulants (forcers), astringents (suppressors), alteratives
(pervertors), emetics, purgatives, narcotics, and so on-
If a patient complains of severe pain, such as neuralgia,
cramp, spasm, &c., instead of administering a medicine to
cure the disease which is causing the pain, they suppress
the natural function of the nerves of the part — ^benumb
them — ^with morphia or opium / And if nature has not of
herself cured the disease by the time the effect of the dose
has gone off, they inject a fresh dose of morphia, or give
another dose of opium, •and again wait on natm*e ! Even
painful acute inflammations, such as pleurisy, peritonitis
and rheumatic fever, are treated much in the same way ;
that is, by opium fomentation in the day ; with morphia
injection, or chloral at night ! If a patient complains of
constipation, instead of giving him a medicine to cure the
cause of the constipation, they give a purgative to produce
the opposite disease, namely, diarrhoea ! If a patient has
diarrhoea, instead of giving him a medicine to cure the
cause of the diarrhoea, they give an astringent, such as
opium, acetate of lead, or pomegranate, to suppress not only
ttie morbid, but also the natural secretion of the bowels,
and produce constipation ! — Contraria contrariis curantur.
The best apology that can be given for such roundabout,
rough and ready, unscientific, uncertain practice, is, that in
some instances it does appear to substitute a more tempo-
rary or less dangerous medicinal disease for perhaps a more
permanent or more dangerous natural disease, whilst nature
herself performs the cure of the original disease.
IL HomoRopathy* — Homoeopathic practitioners, on the
contrary, make no interference whatever with those parts
or actions of the body that remain healthy, but direct their
attention solely to the part that is diseased, and simply give
a medicine that acts on the part diseased, and acts in a
216 HOM<EOPATHT AND ALLOPATHY. "^g^.^SIKBML
similar way to that in which the disease itself is acting ;
knowing well, that snch a medicine will at least act on the
part that is diseased, and will not derange or pervert the
action of any healthy part-
To use the same illustrations as before : — If a patient
has had some anxiety or oyer mental work which has
produced headache, instead of giving him a purgative to
act on the bowels, homoeopathic practitioners administer a
medicine that they know acts on the brain, and on the
same part of the brain that is suffering, and. in a similar
way to that in which the disease is acting ; in fact, a drug
that is known to have produced a similar headache in a
healthy person. And so in a case of croup, homoBopathic
practitioners administer no emetics or purgatives, but give
a medicine that is known to have inflamed the windpipe —
in fact, to have produced a kind of croup. And again, in
a case of inflammation of the kidneys, homoeopathic practi-
tioners administer no purgatives or sudorifics, but give a
medicine that goes straight to the part affected ; one, in
fact, that has been known to produce inflammation of
kidneys. And so, again, in a case of neuralgia, cramp, or
spasm, they do not attempt to annihilate the power of
sensation of the part, but they administer a remedy that
acts on the same part in a similar way. The result is that
experience justifies the practice, showing that, if the proper
dose be selected, cure follows rapidly, safely and pleasantly.
It will, of course, be admitted that a drug that acts on
any part of the body in persons in health, will go to the
same part and tend to act in the same way in persons in
whom that part is not in health.
In homoeopathy the theory is that when given in small
doses a drug will cure similar diseases in the sick to those
that it will produce when given in large doses to the
healthy — simUia similibus curantur. Hippocrates, the
father of medicine, said such was the case ; and so did
many other physicians after him ; and Hahnemann, seeing
not only the wisdom and philosophy of this action of drugs,
but that recoveries thus brought about were not merely
diversions of the disease to another part, but were red
cures, direct and positive, safe, radical and permanent, set
himself to the work of finding out whether such cures were
only isolated instances, or were results of the operation of
a rule in nature. He looked up the literature of the subject,
and tested by this rule all reputed specifics, — i.e., all drugs
it^jSSTvmf^ HOMCEOPATHY AND ALLOPATHY. 217
that were repnte<1 to cure some particular disease — and as
the result of much prolonged and painstaking investigation
he found that the rule held good not " in some cases " only,
but in all cases. He then set himself about finding out
what diseased states drugs would produce, in order that
they might be used to cure similar states when met with
in practice. He and his friends then used these drug-
effects as indications when to use these particular drugs.
The practice thus inaugurated he named Homceopatht.
And this mode of practice has now been adopted by
hundreds of physicians in this country, hundreds on the
continent, and thousands in America. And it has been
proved — ^in,both private and hospital practice— that under
homcBopathic treatment all the severe acute diseases, such
as cholera, dysentery, scarlet fever, typhus fever, typhoid
fever, yellow fever, diphtheria, inflammation of the lungs,
bronchitis, inflammation of the brain, convulsions, insanity,
&c., &c., the disease lasts a much shorter time, and presents
a much less proportion of deaths, than under aUopathio
treatment ; and that in chronic diseases, such as jaundice,
ague, scrofula, syphilis, goitre, dysentery, &c., which only
recover after ''years " of old-school treatment, with '' change
of air and mineral waters," cod liver oil, Turkish batlui,
hydropathy, &c., &c., are frequently cured in ''months,"
or even weeks, under homoeopathy ; and that many of those
chronic diseases that are absolutely incurable under old-
school medical treatment, such as constitutional cancer,
consumption, syphilis, hydrocephalus, tumours, &c., are not
unfrequently radically cured under homceopathic treatment.
Every large town and city in the kingdom has now its
homoeopathic dispensary; and several have also their
homoeopathic hospital. And a recent comparison of statistics
between the London Temperance Hospital and the London
Homceopathic Hospital, has shown conclusively that the
homoeopathic hospital has considerable advantage, in both
economy and in success of treatment, over the temperance
hospital, as the latter has over the non-temperance hospitals.
Whilst another testimony, in the same direction, is afforded
by the immense number of the poor who seek help at the
homoeopathic dispensaries in preference to the allopathic,
though they are further from their homes. By a report of
the Liverpool homoeopathic dispensary, which has just
fallen into our hands, we find that there were 49,289 in-
door attendances, i.e., about 160 every day ; and 10,001
218 HOV<E0PATHT AHD ALLOPATHT* "ulSJj
Bmew, i^ofl 1, IflBl.
patients visited at their own homes, i.e., about 82 every
day, during 1880 ! Shortness of illness, and rapidity of
convalescence, are facts that the poor can appreciate.
So much for the philosophy of allopathy and homooopathy .
Now for the dose : —
One of the mcfst characteristic of the properties of vital"
actions — ^the actions of living bodies — ^is to keep themselves
going for the allotted term of the life of the individual :
and not only to keep going, but to go on in the natural,
normal, or right direction or manner ; just like the works
of a watch under the influence of a spring. It is this
property — ^this tendency to go on in a normal manner —
that is the cause of the frequent recoveries that occur after
injuries and diseases without any medical or surgical help
at all — ^nature rectifies herself; and not only without h6lp»
but even in spite of the wrongly-directed attempts at help —
the injurious interference with her efforts — ^by incompetent
and mistaken practitioners. This power of natural recovery
has received the name of vis medicatrix natura — ^the
healing power of nature. This healing power of nature ia
stronger in some persons than others, as the spring is
stronger in some watches than others ; but strong or weak
(until nearly worn out) it is always resisting the influences
that would derange the actions of the body — ^the causes of
disease — ^whether these be infections, atmospheric influences,
or drugs. Hence, in order to produce their effects in the
body — ^to derange the natural actions of the body, to thwart
nature (having nature against them) — drugs must be exhi-
bited in considerable quantity — in large doses ; differing, of
course, with the virulence of the drug: requiring, of
strychnmef ^th of a grain, of corrosive sii>Umate, ^tb of a
grain, of tartar emetic, 1 grain, of calomely 5 grains, of
ipecacuanha^ 10 grains, of rhubarb, 20 grains, of jalap, SO
grains, and of Epsom salts, half an ounce : the dose required
being with each drug simply a matter of experience. This
dose — ^this poisonous dose — differs also in different indi-
viduals, according to the power of natural resistance-
according to the power of the vis medicatrix natura of the
individual, and according to the resisting power of tiie
organ on which the particular drug acts.
This is the reason why the allopathic dose must be large
— ^it must be enough to overcome the natural conservative
power of the organ, whose action it is intended to derange.
l^^SSTmi!^ HOMEOPATHY AND ALLOPATHY. 219
And the reason why the (allopathic) dose has to be
contmoaUy inoreaBed^ if the nse of the drug has to be
continued long, is because the vis medicatrix natura
gradually acquires power of resistance.
No wonder, then, that (allopathic) experience engenders
dislike to the use of drugs, or that the older and more
experienced practitioners prescribe so few drugs — often
none at all.
The reason why the dose of an allopathically-acting
drag has to be large is because its work is to produce
disease; — ^to derange the natural action of the body,
to change the current of natural action, to oppose and
divert the stream of nature, and nature's torrent is
against it ; it has to overcome the natural health-preserving
tendency of the via medicatrix natv/ray and nature is
arrayed against it.
The dose of a homoeopathically-acting drag on the
eontraiy, has nothing of ^ese forcings to do, and has
none of these oppositions to meet ; it simply extends
a helping hand to struggling nature. Nature is herself
all the time struggling to rectify the perverted action — ^to
calm the excited, diminish the stimulated, increase the
sluggish, and restore the arrested action — and a homoeo-
patiiically-acting drug goes to her assistance; and, as a
very smdl magnet skilfully applied attracts from amongst
the works of a watch the speck of metal that is preventing
the wheels from acting in obedience to the efforts of the
spring, so the small dose of a homoeopathically-acting drug
attracts the offending particle or atom that is interfering
with the healthy action of the parts diseased. A very small
dose is sufSoient for this purpose — an infinitesimal dose.
All nature's operations in the animal body are carried on
with infinitesimals, absolute infinitesimals ; not only micro-
scopic cells, or nuclei, or even nucleoli, of cells, but with
ultimate particles of organic compounds, nay perhaps indeed
ultimate atoms of matter, far away out of the reach of our
most powerful microscopes, or any of our means of detec-
tion. And here it is, in the recesses of nature's laboratory,
where she works with ultimate atoms, that all the vital
changes of health and disease and cure take place, and
hither must be brought, dissolved in the blood, the particles
or atoms of medicines, if they must take part in the opera-
tions of health and disease. No drachms, scraples, grains.
220 HOMEOPATHY AND ALLOPATHY. ^SSS^.^SniflS*
', April 1, 18B1.
or half grains, or eyen quarter grains, are admitted here.
Nor any of the snrface-scoaring doses of insoluble drags
sometimes poured into the stomach ; these only irritate the
surface, and are washed away as a particte of sand is from
the eye.
This, than, is the philosophy of the small dose of homcBO-
pathy, as the former is the explanation of the large dose of
allopathy. In the one case the dose has to produce disease,
and in the other to cure disease ; in the one case nature
opposes, in the other nature assists.
The allopathic medicine for constipation, that is, to
produce purging, may be rhvharb or jaiap ; and for the
purpose twenty grains of the former or thirty grains of the
latter would have to be giyen ; one grain of the former or
two grains of the latter would not answer the purpose. The
allopathic medicine for purging, that is, to produce con-
stipation, may be opium, aromatic confectiony or chalk
mixture ; and for the purpose one grain of the first, thirty
grains of the second, or half an ounce of the third would
haye to be given ; a fraction of a grain of the first, a grain
of the second, or a scruple of the tiiiri would not serve the
purpose.
The homoeopathic medicine for vomiting may be tartar
emetic or ipeca^manha, but who would venture to give the
ordinary grain dose of tartar emetic, or the ten grain dose
of ipecacuanha in such cases ? The homoeopathic medicine
for purging may be rhubarb, ov jalap, or Epsom salts ; but
who would venture to give the ordinary twenty grain dose
of the first, the thirty grain dose of the second, or the half
ounce dose of the third in such cases ?
In allopathy the dose must be large ; in homoeopathy it
MUST be smali. But how large, and how small, are, and
must be, matters of mere experience in each case. Ab the
allopath does not know beforehand how large a dose of any
particular drug will be required to produce disease, so
neither does the homoeopath know from mere theory how
small the dose of medicine will require to be made to cure
disease, without aggravation. No mere theorising will
serve here ; to experience must the appeal be made.
*' Experientia doceU^'
M^^Lt!^ DIBPBNSABY EXPBBIENOES. 221
DISPENSARY EXPERIENCES,
[Continued from p. 754, vol. 24, No, 12.)
By Robert T. Coopeb, M.D.,
Phyaieian (DlieasM of Ear), London HomoBopaihic Hospital.
That homceopathy as a system of medicine can and must
be simplified in its application to every fonn of disease is
what I haye all along insisted upon, and what every day's
experience teaches me; but this improvement is to be
effected only by a close and patient study of the physio-
logical actions of our drags, the rongh effects they
produce, and the class of diseases over which they exercise
a sway.
Unlefls the practitioner has succeeded in acquiring
this preliminary knowledge, his search after "pure
symptoms " will be disheartening and tedious for himself,
and uncertain in result for his patient. First let us
understand the more material effects wrought by drugs, and
then work out their finer shades of differences.
A gentlemen once told me he objected to homoeopathy as,
after frequent and firuitless visits to one of its practitioners,
the only consolation he received was the information
that homoeopathy had a remedy to cure him, only it
was impossible to find it !
And how many of us, when we first commenced the
practice of homoeopathy, have felt this difficulty keenly, and
have almost been driven like our colleague to excuse our
sjrstem at the expense of ourselves ? And is it not a fact that
as years roll by we learn to apply our remedies with greater
precision, and with fieur less inconvenience and labour
to ourselves than when we began ? the reason being that
we have become more iiEimiliar, not with mere isolated
symptoms, but with the general disposition to disease that
is characteristic of the remedy. This being universally
admitted, does it not follow that if our more experienced
practitioners would exert themselves, and report more
of their cases, and point out the indications that led them
to select the remedies, the difficulties in the way of
successful homoeopathic practice would disappear, or would
at all events be very much modified, and the beginner
would be correspondingly encouraged to pursue his
investigationB ? As it is, the difficulties in the way of
222 BISPENaABT EXPEBIENC£8. ^^S^ ^SSTTIm
Bflvi0W,AiiDll,18BL
a snccessfnl pursiuuiice of the homcBopathic art are siinply
immense, notwithstanding the increase of volaminoas
tomes with which we have to weigh down onr book-shelyea.
The best and simplest way of all to commence the study of
bomodopathy is for the student to read carefully well reported
cases of provings in homoBopathic literature, and of
poisonings in allopathic, and from these to infer what are
the directions taken by the medicine while coursing
through the system. But we are not dependent for our
knowledge upon either proyings or poisonings ; we can
gather Tery useful information from carefully observing the
way in which susceptible patients are a^ected by the
medicines we administer to them, and with ordinary
precautions can distinguish the truly medicinal effects from
the natural influences peculiar to the disorders with which
they are afiiicted. To acquire the art of doing this should
be the first care of every practitioner, an art to be learned
only by studying the Materia Medica side by side with the
reports of our cases.
The soda chlorata is a remedy I have often placed before
the readers of our journals, and it affords an example of
very useful knowledge being acquired without there being
instituted any formal proving.
Take, for example, this case, in some respects as purely
a homceopathic case as if it had fallen from the pen of
Hahnemann himself, in others falling far short of Hahne-
mannian requirements.
Mrs. L., a woman of 86, prescribed for the 7th
December, 1880, this being the statement of her ease : —
Six years ago had a fright a month before a confinement,
which completely prostrated her, and had to keep her bed
till the confinement came on, and after the confinement a
fit seized her, which seemed to cause arrest of the flow of
milk; then her left leg became swollen, painful and tender,
and from that time she has suffered from ''white-leg"
{Phlegmasia dolens). Over eleven months ago had a mis-
carriage, and since then her feet and legs feel weak, and
there is a tingling soreness, an indescribable feeling with
pain in the feet as if they were about to quit connection
with the rest of the body. Ever since the bad confinement
six years ago her left leg and thigh have been swollen with
redness of the^^Jower leg and a white ansBmic appearance
about the knee. This leg pains her horribly, especially
for a week after each monthly illness, a burning pain last-
mS^.SST'^B^ DIBPENSABT EXPERIENCES. 223
ing all day — of late it has been much worse. Then she
has peMc bearing down, and very often the womb pro-
tmdes and remains out for some hours. There is much
lencorrhoBa, and tlie monthly illness, though regular, only
shows itself by the discharge of black clots.
Her sleep is '' a dead, heavy, unrefreshing sleep," her
bowels are regular, but her appetite is very bad, and she
feels very weak, and is losing flesh.
For these symptoms, or rather for the condition por-
trayed by them, I prescribed soda chlorata, three drops to
go OTer a week. From the first she felt sick after each
dose, and was no better until on the 3rd night (Thursday,
the first dose having been taken on Tuesday at bed-time),
■he was seized with an attack of bilious vomiting, and has
felt much relieved since then. The numbness in the feet
is better, the left leg is not nearly so painful, sleep is much
better; the leucorrhoea and the bearing-down sensation
remain, but the womb is not protruding ; altogether she
feels better than she has done for twelve months.
The attack of sickness on the Thursday night I took to
be an aggravation, or rather a disturbance of the system
eansed by the soda chlor., and hence I now gave a drop
three times a day of the third decimal solution.
On 28th December, 1880, a sense oftinglingandwantof
sensation in the feet, more pronounced than before. The
left leg, however, is much easier. Through the week her
teeth hftve been quite loose, and feel as if they would fall
out. The womb has been coming down very much, and
has been having bloodless piles (rectal protrusion?), an
altogether unusual occurrence.
From the combined improvement and exacerbation, I
coneluded a medicinal influence, and for this reason gave
saeeh. lactis pilules for the following week. At the end of
it (Ist Januaiy, 1881), complained of being light-headed, as
if aU her senses were going, and yesterday and to-day had
eold shivers, continuing day and night, and accompanied
by increase of heat, redness, and pain of the leg ; seems
to have caught cold ; pulse weak, tongue natural.
To have soda chUir., a drop for the next week.
11th January, 1881. In every possible way improved,
feeling altogether different from what she did before seeking
tieatment ; the size of the left leg is very much gone down ;
she sleeps and eats well, her spirits are much better, and
there is now no bearing-down whatever.
224 DISPENSABY BXPEBIENCES. 'gj^.A^?^!
There was no opportunity ajQforded for instituting a local
examination, bnt the symptoms are significant enough by
themselves to carry great weight. Studied along with the
papers on soda chlor., published by me in the British
Journal of Homoeopathy, it throws considerable light upon
the action of the hypochlorite oj soda.
As a companion case, this will come in well.
Mrs. E., aged 85. Five years ago was delivered with
instruments, and has never been well since. EEas been
married ten years, and has had four children. Three weeks
ago was seized with unusually violent attacks of vomiting
and diarrhoea, and they keep coming on every second day.
She gets bilious during the night, and then when morning
comes she is seized with diarrhcBa and inability to retain
food on the stomach. She suffers with backache (low
down), especially if she attempts to lie on either side.
Before this attack the bowels acted naturally, but now
great qnantities of blood pass away ivithout warning.
Prescribed 12 drops of mezereum p for a week on
15th October, 1880, and by the 22nd she could keep food
down, and felt better in every way, though a certain loose-
ness of the bowels remained, and the backache was better.
No blood passing.
To have another week's medicine. Seen again 14th
December, 1880 ; report, perfectly well.
Hsematuria is among the symptoms of mezereunif but
rectal bleeding {'procth<emorrhagia) is not a recorded effect
of it, hence the interest attendant upon the above case.
Those who wish to study the action of mezereum may also
like to read this case : —
Mrs. L., a woman of 52, came to me with pains of the
right side of the face and head, with soreness and tender-
ness on pressure, a bursting pain in the ear going to the
face and head ; the pains continue day and night ; has had
it for a week. After last Christmas had an attack which
continued for three months.
She feels puffy all over ; otherwise well.
Prescribed 28rd April, 1880, mezereum ^ 2 drops for the
week.
May 4th. Face has been very much better, but yester-
day and to-day was very bad. (Pour days without
medicine).
Continue medicine.
J^jSSS'h^ DJSPEN8ABT BXPEBIEN0B8. 226
May 11th, 1880. Veiy much better, only feels very sleepy
and has no energy for work.
This patient has remained perfectly well ever since ; I
have had freqnent opportonities of seeing her.
The key-note to the case was '^ bursting sensation in the
ear/' which I have fonnd mezereum to produce. The
proving has *' tingling of the ears with great drowsiness/'
and it may be that the drowsiness complained of was
medicinal. The great tenderness of the parts affected is
characteristic of mezereum pains, especially of its bone-
pains. The case was really one of ear-ache, of a kind that
18 very often followed by otorrhcea; the symptoms are
given as described by the patient ; there was no oppor*
tonity afforded of examining the ear.
The action of mezereum should be studied along with
that of manganum ; these remedies have much in common,
especially in their ear-symptoms.
The next case which illustrates the action of both soda
ehlorata and mezereum will come in well here, the more
80 as the subject of it is the daughter of the last patient.
Louisa L., aged 20, a tall, well-nourished girl, came
10th February, 1880, with general debility, with which
for the last three years she has suffered at the fall of the
year (i.e., from November to spring-time) ; has much pain
in the apex of the left lung ; her appetite is bad, bowels
confined, and sleep restless, and for the last three or
four months has fainted at the monthly illness, which is
attended with a great deal of bearing-down ; is subject
to back-ache.
Prescribed soda chlor. 0, gtt. v., for a week.
17th February. Feels better and stronger, but has very
much pain in the left lung, and her appetite is bad and
bowels confined. Continue gtt. x.
I may mention that there was no percussion dulness
present in the left lung, though the breathing was rather
rough. The family history did not point to phthisis. She
went on with the soda ehlorata till 2nd of March, and
improved steadily ; the chest pain went, she felt stronger,
and slightly better ; but the bowels, in spite of half-grain
doses o( podophyllum, given at bed-time, remained confined.
I then gave ten drops of mezer, 0 to go over the week, and
on 9th March she reports considerable improvement ; and
the bowels, although confined, act better.
To have gtt. xiv. for a week.
No. 4, Vol 25. q
226 PEBITTPHUTIC ABSCESS. '^^.^^Il^
March 16th. Is veiy mnch better, bnt has been haying
face-ache veiy mnch on the right side — a doll pain, worse
at night (aggravation ?). Bowels all right.
No back-ache ; monthly illness came on last week, and
fait much better during it than she had been for three
months ; no tendency to either fainting or soffering. For
the next week sacch, laetis was given, and for the week
following this mezereum again.
On the 6th April, 1880, reported herself qiiite well, and
I can testify to her having remained so ever since.
These cases teach the value to be set upon soda cJdorata
and npon mezereum in cases of pelvic congestion, and also
in neuralgia, where the condition of system corresponds to
the remedy.
" PEBITYPHLITIC ABSCESS."
By T. E. PuRDOM, M.D.
Miss H., aged 18. Struma in family.
Dec. 18, 1880. After long exposure to cold, she had
partial rigors, with malaise. This was followed by pain in
the right side, under the ribs, extending down to the iliac
region. There is great tenderness on palpation, and pain
on movement. The right side of the abdomen is more
resistant than the left, especially towards the lower part.
Gatamenia have been regular, and the last period was not
checked. Pulse 100, weak; temp., 100*2*^; bowels costive.
Diagnosis, — Inflammation ; probably perityphlitic, with
slight peritonitis.
Bry. alb* 1, and riierc sol. 1, were given alternately every
hour. The same evening I changed the latter to mere,
eorr. 3 x. ; enema to open bowels ; milk diet. Tongue
yellow, moist coating, posterior two-thirds, with red and
irritable tip.
20th. There had been no history of indigestion nor
constipation, nor of swallowing fruit stones, &c. In statu
quo. Gontin. med.
21st. Shooting pains, with flatulence and colic; leg
inclined to bend up. Pain has spread towards umbilicus
— ^more across the bowels. Temp. 102*4®. Merc. corr. 8x;
eoloc. 3 X.
22nd. Bepeat.
23rd. Pulse 100; temp. 100-4®. Large and painful
swelling in right iliac fossa, extending close to Poupart's
iS^-SSiTM^ PBRITYPHLITIO ABSCESS, 227
ligament ; less towards the ribs, across towards nmbilicns,
and bnlging baokwards towards the loins. Constant pain,
worse at times specially from movement. No shooting
pains nor colic. No throbbing. Merc. corr. 3 ; hry, 8.
25th. Suspicion of suppuration. Hep. milph. 8 x;
mere. corr. 8 x.
29th. Diarrhcea; four or five pea-soup-like motions,
showing involvement of mucous surface. Ars. aJh* 8 x ;
hep. mSpK 2 X.
Slst. Diarrhoea; readily controlled. From this time
suppuration was evident, and a large abscess was expected.
The patient was kept steadily on hep. sulph. 8 x, with a
change to Mieea 8, and chin. 1, in alternation for a day or
two.
Jan. 6th. An. aVb. 8 x, was again given for diarrhoea,
and checked it at once. The matter was now rapidly
pointing towards Poupart's ligament. Poultices (made
with water in which poppy heads had been boiled) were
applied, £ may say, from the first. BeUadonna ointment
was also smeared over the most painful part for a few
days.
Jan. 12th. As the abscess was on the point of bursting,
and as I had an antiseptic spray and gauze ready, I lanced
it quite superficially under the carbolic spray. The first
discharge was rather offensive, which an earlier opening
might have avoided. However, the pus was quite bland
on the removal of the dressing the same night.
14th. Dressed twice daily under spray, and with car-
boUsed gauze carefully applied and fixed, with broad
bandage of the same round iJie abdomen and thigh.
19th. Since the 14th it has only been dressed once a
day. After this date, only every second day. Wound
rapidly closing ; looks clean and healthy. Patient up on
sofa, just a month after the beginning of the attack.
China 0, and nlic. 8 have been given since the abscess
was opened.
21st. Boracic ointment was applied to the raw surface.
SUieea 6 was given alone for a time. Then again silicea 3
and sulphwr to finish up with. As there was some proud
flesh, powdered loaf sugar was applied. Calendula ointment
was substituted for the boracic for a few days. My notes
end here, as though the case was under observation longer,
there was just a small granulating surface left, dressed
with the last-named ointment; the rag being merely
0— J|
228 PBBITTPHLITIC ABSCESS. ^S^. AkQum!
stained with discharge. The diet was principally milk at
first ; soups, &c., being added as the case went on. The
patient stooped to the right side on walking for a few days,
but soon conld keep straight np. She gained flesh rapidly;
the emaciation having be^ considerable.
I have thought this case worth recording, because of its
serious nature ; also as occurring in such a young subject.
The action of the different medicines were pretty dear, in
spite of the alternation. The cohcynth relieyed the
shooting and colicky pains rapidly. The arsenic controlled
the enteritis and diarrhoBa. The mere. eorr. and bry. alb.
seemed to keep the peritonitic mischief in check; the
temperature only once rising to 102^ at night.
The soothing poultices and belladonna ointment were
useful adjuncts to moderate pain, which was often very
severe. (I am not myself satisfied that you can dispense
with opium altogether, where the peritoneum itself is more
involved). A water bed added much to patient's comfort.
The hep. sviph. undoubtedly hastened the maturation of
the abscess, and shows how such a serious case may be
safely terminated by medicines. The practice, now-a-days,
is to operate very early by the aspirateur or antiseptioally.
In the former, of course, the puncture might have to be
repeated several times. In the latter to cut down upon
the abscess as soon as the presence of matter is ascertained
may succeed very quickly ; but the operation itself is more
serious. Not being much of a surgeon, I was glad to see
the case end as well as it did. Then, again, the antiseptic
dressing saved much poulticing, and a prolonged drain of
pus probably, considering the strumous tendency.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN NATIONAL
WEALTH AND NATIONAL HEALTH.*
By H. BLuifBBBay M.D., J.P.
Gentlemen : The object of my paper is to trace and to
elucidate the connection which necessarily exists between
the wealth of nations and the health of the individual citi-
zens. My object is not to prove that national health promotes
national wealth — that is too obvious ; but vice versa, that
national wealth is one of the great — nay, the greatest,
elements of national health. Before beginning, I must draw
*^ead before the ^utbport lateziuy and Philosophioal Societj, Dec 3, 1880.
S!Si!SS^U^ WEALTH AND HEALTH. 229
yonr attention to the difficnity of the task, by no means in
order to enhance the praise for haying undertaken it, but
rather to palliate or excuse my obyions shortcomings. Yon
will notice that my reasoning will have to be often deductive ;
not only because the subject somewhat demands it, but on
account of the insufficient data which statisticians appear
to have proyided in that direction. Take, for instance,
public health. I have ransacked a good many books, and
my acquaintance with the principal languages of Europe
has helped me a good deal; but still I had in most instances
to fall back on the tables of mortality as a criterion. But
it is obvious that the annual mortality of a place or of a
country is by no means an infallible guide in estimating the
health of the inhabitants. There may be a large number
of invalids not well enough to live and not ill enough to
die ; but we have no data except the general remarks of
travellers to judge apart from the tables of mortality of the
health of Afferent nations. It requires consideration
whether provision should not be made for that object in the
decennial census. A man might object to state his religious
persuasion ; but I doubt whether anyone would object to
state whether he is suffering from any complaint. As re-
gards the wealth of nations, the difficulty is even greater.
We have the most divergent estimates from different writers.
Some are simply ignorant of the law of evidence ; others
are led by vanity, or sometimes by political motives, to ex-
aggerate the wealth of their own country and to diminish
that of other people's* Some criterion, no doubt, is the
state of public credit. Catena parilms, a nation which can
borrow at three per cent, must be doubly as wealthy as a
nation which must pay six. I have tried to be guided only
by trustworthy writers, and in other cases have drawn a
probable mean which I believe will be near the truth.
Having said this by way of preface, I invite you to ac-
company me to a country on our earth which we shall name
A, a town in A called B, a street in B called C, and a house
in C called D, in which we suppose at this moment a baby
to be bom called J. Let us suppose also that as we are mem-
bers of a philosophical society, we are tempted to ask a
question — What average chance of health and length of life,
wealth and happiness is in store for this baby J ? As
regards his or her share of haQpiness I cannot tell you any-
thing. It is only likely that it will have its proper quantum
of tears and laughter; but I can pretty confidently tell you
230 ^ALTH AND HEALTH. '^^^JSTSn.
- * - ■ -
that its average chance of life is abont thirty-three years
and eight months, bat its chance of wealth as taken on the
average we shall see by-and«by. Is there any practical
good to be gained by such a specolation or such cdcidations?
— ^Yes; I firmly believe that the result of such calcolations
— and I am the first who ever made them — wonld, if
sufficiently published and acted upon, dispel many errors
which are at the root of the doctrines of Socialists,
Communists, and Nihilists. For the sake of argument,
therefore, we shall suppose that every being has an innate
right to his or her fur share in this globe of ours. Then
come, of course, two questions which must be answered be-
fore a solution is possible. First, how much is our globe,
with everything it contains except men, worth? and,
secondly, how many human beings are we at present to
divide it between us ? Let us take the second question
first. Even so short a time as twenty years ago it would
have been most difficult to state with approximate proba-
bility the number of inhabitants on this fair planet ; but
now, thanks to the labour of many statisticians of many
nationalities, and also thanks to the census introduced into
so many countries, we can safely assume the population of
the globe in this year of our Lord to be about fourteen
hundred millions. The second question — ^How much this
planet is worth ? is fieur more difficult to answer ; and even
the closest calculation vnll of course be very hypothetical.
There is no stock exchange for the stars, though there is a
rise and a fall in them. Nor can we imagine any being
who would bid for even the smallest asteroid. The only
way is to sub-divide the globe into many hundred parts and
states, and then to value each separately. The guides to
such valuation will be, first the extent of territory, secondly
the fertility of the soil, thirdly the number of cities and
towns, fourth the state of the national trade and industry,
£fth the estimated income of the inhabitants. All these
present great difficulties, but they are not quite insurmount-
able. Let us try. Let us take, for instance, England and
Greece. I mean Greece as at present, and not as it will be
shortly. Great Britain and Ireland contain 6,776 geogra-
phical square miles. We know that about three-fifths of
its soil is very fertile and highly cultivated. We know
that it excels all other cquntries of the earth with the
exception of Belgium in the density of its population, and
with no exception at all in the extent of its trade and
tS^SSTS^ WEALTH AND HEALTH. 281
mannfaetares. We know, or we calculate with great
probability, that the income of every English man, woman
and child is about thirty-two pounds, which would make the
general income of all the inhabitants eleven hundred mil-
lions of pounds. From these and other premises we draw
the conclusion that the capital value of the United
Kingdom of England and Ireland is about ten thousand
million of pounds. Take Greece now as a contrast. The
kingdom of Greece is about 960 square geographical miles.
It contains about three-fourths of mountainous, arid
regions ; one fourth is exceedingly fertile, but badly culti-
vated. There are no great wealthy cities, their trade is
pretty well developed, but their manu£EU^ures are in their
infancy. The average income of the 1,SOO,000 inhabitants
is hardly £10 a-piece, or fifteen millions a year altogether.
I doubt, therefore, that all Greece — ^barring, of course, its
claims on Turkey — would go higher under the auctioneer's
hammer than one hundred and twenty millions of pounds.
By that process we come to estimate the capital value of
aU countries which are civilised, and allowing a certain
amount for the unknown, we come to the grand total of
sixty thousand millions of pounds, which is made up as
follows in millions of pounds : —
England, Scotland, and Ireland 10,000
France ... ... ... ... ... 6,000
Germany ... ... ... ... ... 4,000
Austria ... ... ... ... ... 2,400
Bossia in Europe 2,200
XmUV ... ... ... ... ... JLyOvrv
Spain 880
Turkey in Europe 800
Belgium ... ... ... ... ... 750
Holland 800
Denmark 200
Sweden and Norway 200
Switzerland 200
Portugal 200
vTreeco ... ... *•• ... ... x avI
Total 80,000
America ... ... ... ... ... 16,000
Africa ... ... ... ... ... 2,000
Austraha ... ... ... ... ... 1,000
Afiia 11,000
Total 60,000
232 WEALTH AND HEALTH. ^^w.WTmm!
Let ns now go back to the poor baby which we left in
the street D, crying probably most bitterly because we have
left unanswered his question as to how much capital he is
entitled to during all his future earthly existence. We are
now able to tell him or her, that if he or she works like average
persons, his or her share of this money value of the earth will
be 60,000 millions, divided by 1,400 millions, or in other
words, £42 17s. 6d. This revelation will be cheerful news
perhaps for the baby, but a heavy blow to the great expecta-
tions of the Communists, whose idea is that by sharing
every one will at once become well to do. It reminds one
of an anecdote about the late Baron James Rothschild.
During the revolutionary days of 1848 he was accosted in
the s^eet by a beggar, who said : ** Citizen Rothschild,
you know dl men are brothers; now give your poor
brother something." The Baron, who, though immensely
rich, was also very miserly, gave him deux sous — a penny.
'' Is that all ?" exclaimed the indignant beggar. '' Yes,"
said the Baron ; ''and if I were to give to every brother of
mine as much, I should be bankrupt."
Yes, gentlemen, this is all — £42 17s. 6d. This is the
capital. And mind you this is the product of human
work. Without it, without the thought which invents, the
senses which measure, or the muscles which act — ^without
them this globe would be what they call a drug in the
market, a wQdemess of monkeys, for which even Jessica
would not give the smallest gem. Man has found this
earth barren, and has made it fruitful. He has found a
white sheet of paper, and has written a valuable cheque of
60,000 millions of pounds upon it. The earth is like the
mother of the Gracchi — she finds her most precious jewels
in her children.
Now, it is obvious that man's principal endowment for
the attainment of wealth, either for himself or his family,
or his nation, is good health. Health is the proper balance
of all physical functions. It is a duet between mind and
body in which there occurs no false note. There is no
doubt that the physical conformation of the soil and the
climate have some influence on the health of different
nations, but by no means to the extent to which it is
generally supposed. Man is the most adaptable of all
animals, he can flourish in the icebound islands near the
Pole, as well as in the heat of the Tropics. We shall
therefore dismiss the consideration of climate from our
^^JSST^ wealth and health, 288
ealcnlation. The race is also an index to the state of a
nation's health, bat only a poor and &lUble one- English-
men, for instance, are of a large, sturdy race ; Sicilians,
of a small and apparently weak race, but I firmly believe
that there would be no difference either in their longevity
or in their share of health, bat that the latter either ignore
the sanitary laws or for want of means are unable to give
them play. The fact is, health travels in the same carriage
with eivihsation, and the latter again is rarely to be found
separated from the company of wealth. I speak, of course,
of nations. Individuals may and do ruin their health not
only though, but because they are rich, but in nations
wealth naturally leads to improvement in dwellings, in
clothing, in feeding, in all public sanitary measures,
diminJBhing of course sickness and mortality. Well may
not only the sentimental philanthropist, but also the
practical philosopher or statesman, exclaim, with Sterne :
" O ! blessed health, thou art above all gold and treasure.
'Tis thou who enlargest the soul, and openeth all its powers
to receive instruction and to relish virtue. He that has
thee has Uttle more to wish for, and he that is so wretched
as to want thee wants everything with thee." I could
enlarge upon this theme, but my object is not to prove
that health is wealth ; no, I want to complete the circle,
and to prove that wealth — ^national wealth I mean, is con-
ducive to national health. We shall therefore now examine,
if you allow me, the sanitary condition of the nations, and
compare them with their financial position.
It is true that even the wealthiest and most civilised
nations spend a hxmdred times as much on their engines
of destruction, on their army and navy, as on the means
of preserving life or enhancing the bodily welfare of their
citizens ; but the difference between rich and poor nations
is that in the latter there remains not even a modicum for
health after paying for all war implements and warriors.
I wanted to take each individual country and compare the
wealth of its inhabitants, the state of the national finances,
and the percentage of taxation on the income ; but, on
second consideration, and for fear of being tedious, I drew
the accompanying maps of Europe, which will sufficiently
illustrate, and I hope prove, my argument. The one
represents the financial state of the different countries
which is the better the lighter they are painted, and the
other the mortality of the same countries which is the
234 WEALTH AND HEALTH. ^bSSt.^SSu^
heavier tibe darker they are drawn. Ton will notice on
examination that with two or three slight exceptions the
different shades are eqoal on both maps. To illustrate my
idea still further, I have inserted in the one map the per-
centage of taxation on the probable income of the inhabit-
ants, on the other the different rates of annual mortality
for a number of years in the different countries. Miet
looking at these maps attentively you will agree with me
that a full exchequer has something to do witib promoting
strength and long life. Unfortunately, as I mentioned
before, the unhappy differences between peoples seem to
require that the best part of a nation's wealth should be
spent in measures of safety. What would you say to a
city that spent a hundred times as much on its policemen
as on its streets, parks, or schools ; or a paterfiunilias who
would feed his watch-dogs on beefsteaks, and his children
on potatoes ? Let us hope ! Perhaps the time is not bo
far distant when, as Tennyson sings,—
The oommon sense of most shall hold a fretful realm in awe.
And the kindly earth shall slnmher, wrapped in universal law ;
When the.war dram throbs no longer, and the battle-flag's untexled,
Li the Parliament of Man, the federation of the World 1
But even before that auspicioas day we could do a great
deal. The wealth of England is enormous, .and it increases
every day. I am sorry to say health has not kept pace
with it. A mortality of 22 in a thousand is still too high
for so rich a country. Some measures not too difficult or
costly to carry out would, I believe, diminish materially
that figure. I will, as the practical aim and the consum-
mation of my lecture, enumerate in detail the measures
which I would like, either by the initiative of Government,
municipalities, or private individuals to be carried into
effect. It is but right to acknowledge that sanitary science
is a plant of recent growth, come, as it were, in the train
of that great revolution in medicine which marks our
present century. But the teachings of that science, though
she be young as yet, ought to be taken more to heart.
Let us notice some shortcomings in our great and pre-
eminently wealthy country. 1. There is compulsory
mental education for the young, but very litUe is done for
the physical education of the two million or more of school
children. My friend. Dr. Both, of London, has shown
this fact clearly in his admirable pamphlet on the neglect
of sdentific Physical Education and Hygiene by Parlia-
E^JSSTS^ WEALTH AND HEALTH. 286
ment and the Edacational Department. 2. Let us take
sach apparently small affairs as the chairs and benches on
which the school children sit, or the desks on which they
work, and the best authorities will tell yon that they are
ill adapted, as a rale, for the health of boys and girls, and
lead often to cnrratares of the spine and short sight.
S. The absolute want of proper knowledge of the laws of
health or of physical education among the working classes.
It is satisfactory to obserre that lately there has been a
morement both in London and in Manchester to dissemi-
nate tracts bearing on health among the poorer classes of
our large towns. 4. The neglect of the proper super-
vision by civic authorities of the building of houses. In
England, unfortunately, unlike in that to other countries,
house building is mostly a speculative affair, the object, of
course, being to build as cheaply and to sell as quickly and
dearly as possible. Something has been done in the direc-
tion of supervision lately, but not much. I maintain that
there is no house in this district — built on speculation that
is — ^built according to all the desiderata of sanitary science*
5. The rapid growth of our great centres of commerce and
manufacture, and the insufficiency often in consequence of
either good drainage, or of breathing apparatus in the
shape of open places and parks. 6. The adulteration of
food and the perfect impotency of the feeble laws against
it. We read in the ArMan Nights how the Grand Visier
ordered a man who sold bread with false weights to have
both his ears cut off. Should not the man have even a
stronger punishment who sells instead of wholesome food
a mixture of rotten flour and alum. As regards the
adulteration or the dilution of milk I intended to send the
following letter to a member of Parliament whom I have
the honour of knowing, but on consideration I think it
best to read it here, as publicity is all I wish for in the
matter*
'' My Dear Sir, — ^Many circumstances during the last
twelve months have led my attention to the question whether
some more effectual means might not be found to check the
supply of adulterated or vitiated milk to the public. There
is no article of food of so high an importance for the national
health as milk. Recent researches have conclusively proved
that milk from tuberculous cows can produce tuberculous
consumption in man. On the quaUty of the milk, I main-
tain, depends to the greatest extent the physicid, and to
286 WEALTH AHB HEALTH. "SSJ, A^IffifttS
some extent the mental character of a nation. It is the food
of the child, and the child is father to the man. A child
bronght ap on watery milk will be ricketty, scrofdlons,
idiotic. If it grows np, it will probably become an inmate
of onr hospitdSy workhonses, or prisons, for muddy blood
produces muddy thoughts, and there is no great step from
the latter to crime. But even among the adult population
milk enters largely into their daily &re. The number of
partial or total abstainers from spirituous drinks is rapidly
increasing ; they must fall back upon pure milk, or cocoa,
coffee, or tea, all with a mixture of milk. Surely, if the
Legislature takes such care, and rightly so, to restrict and
superintend the liquor traffic, they ought also to pay some
attention to the great substitute — ^milk. The present laws
are perfectly insufficient to protect the public. A milk
dealer is occasionally fined five or ten pounds for mixing
water with his nulk, but he often makes ten times that amount
by his adulteration in three months ! Besides, how few
people take the trouble, or do not shrink from the expense
of having the milk analysed. There is another and as
serious side to this question. Now and then an epidemic
of typhoid £Bver brefdcs out in one or the other of our popu-
lous towns. It is clearly traced to milk poisoned by the
admixture of impure water. Are the men who sold such
milk punished ? Not at all. The law has but an imperfect
hold on them though they have perhaps murdered a dosen
people. And how many cases of ill-health are attributable to
the same cause, though the cause remains unknown. My pro-
posal to remedy this abnormal state of things is the following,
which I submit to you to bring, if you think fit, to the notice
of Parliament. I would introduce an act by which the milk
trade would be regulated in the same way as at present the
liquor trade is. 1. Every farmer who sells milk, every
cowkeeper and milkdealer would have to be licensed. 2.
The licensing fee ought to be very low, say 10s. a year, so
as not to interfere with the trade. 8. The licenses ought
to be granted by the Justices of Peace in the same manner
as is now done with public-houses. 4. The premises of
every such licensed person ought to be inspected at least
twice a year by a competent officer who would be paid by the
licensing fees. 6. He would report at stated times to the
magistrates, and they would be empowered to cancel at once
the license if the cows were not kept in a proper place and
manner or if the wells were contaminated with sewage or
SSS^^STmS"* homosopathy in the colonies. 287
ofanoxioas matter. 6. Eveiy farmer, oowkeeper, and milk
dealer has to report at once any case of serioas illness on
his premises to the inspecting officers. 7. The dealer who
is fonnd oat to have sold adulterated milk is first to be fined
as now. The second time his fine ought to be tenfold. The
third time he ought to lose his license. This proposal is
dearly in favour of the honest farmer, as their cows' milk
will not haye to fear the competition of water. It will, if
carried out, be the greatest boon for the rising generation.
The only persons adversely affected by it would be unsoru*
pulous milk dealers, who have hitherto played with the lives
of their fellow citizens, and profited largely by the care*
lessness of consumers and by the laxity of the law. — ^I remain
my dear sir, yours truly,
"Hy. Bluubbbo."
These are the six subjects in which, in my opinion, a
reform is necessary and easily effected. England stands
foremost among nations in civilisation and wealth. Let
her always be idso foremost in advocating and carrying out
all measures for increasing the health and strength of her
citizens, not forgetful of the fine lines of Goldsmith, —
*< HI fares the land, to hastening ills a prey,
Where wealth aocnmolates, bat men deoay."
I hope I have proved to your satisfaction — firstly, that the
theories of Communists, if carried out, would disappoint
their very authors; and secondly, that a nation's wealth
cannot be better employed than in promoting the nation's
health, and I have only to thank you, gentlemen, for
listening with patience and indulgence to an essay written
under the disadvantage of a busy professional life.
A vote of thanks to Dr. Blumberg was proposed by
Aid. Nicholson, J.P., and seconded by Bev. T. Holland,
imd carried unanimously.
HOM(EOPATHY IN THE COLONIES.
By J. MuBiUY MooBB, M.D.
V. — HomoBopathy in New Zealand.
Ak enterprising and progressive branch of the Anglo-
Saxon race at the present day demands the advantages of
the latest improvements in the art of healing, as in all
other arts and sciences. Therefore New Zealand, the
288 HOMOBOPATHY IN THE COLOHIBS- *^^, aSS^w!
** Britain of the South/' a mixed yet homogeneous com-
mnnity of 450,000, has rapidly appreciated the yalne of
homoBopathy. In die year 1853 Dr. G. F. Fischer settled
in Auckland, then the capital of New Zealand, and opened
a pharma<r^, at first conducted by Mens. Delatre, and
afterwards by Mr. J. A. Pond, the present proprietor.
After the usual struggle against the bitterest allopathic
opposition, even extending to an action for malpractice,
Dr. Fischer firmly establie^ed this system in Auckland.
A man of varied talent, of fluency almost amounting to
eloquence, of restless energy and contagious enthusiasm,
he founded a homodopathio hospital, gave public lectures,
brought out a monthly popular medical journal, the Echo^
the twehe numbers of which formed a complete little
domestic manual, and industriously worked up a very large
and arduous practice. His cures even made two profes*
sional converts, Massrs. A. G. Purchas and A. Macdonald,
who practise homoeopathy! still in this city. Sighing for
*' more worlds to conquer " Dr. Fischer removed in 1870
to the larger field of Sydney, where he is now in practice.
Meanwhile, about 1869, Dr. Irvine had settled in Nelson,
and in 1868 Dr. Deck JibA commenced practice in Inver-
cargill. About 1878 Dr. Deck removed to Dunedin, the
commercial capital of the colony, where he succeeded
admirably, relinquishing his excellent practice there only
in consequence of Dr. Fischer's urgent invitation in 1877
to take charge of his own Sydney practice during his
intended three years' absence in Europe. After an
interval of about eighteen months Dr. Wanless settled in
^ Dunedin.
In January, 1871, the Auckland practice was taken up
by Dr. F. Hartmann, formerly of Norwich, a learned,
skilful and kindly physician, who consolidated and extended
the practice for seven years. His death from diabetes in
May, 1878, was very much lamented, and his place in the
afiections of his patients will be difficult to fill. While on
a tour through Europe Mr. Pond invited the present
writer, who was in ill-health and meditated a change of
climate, to settle in Auckland, and in January, 1880,
Dr. J. Murray Moore resumed practice here. Judging by
results, both practitioner and practice seem to suit each
other, and the excellent efiiBCts of this climate on the
health of the former is most gratefully acknowledged.
The pharmacy in Queen Street is large and completely
iS^^Sti^ HOMCBOPATHY IN THE COLONIES. 289
eqaipped, and would do credit to London or New York.
Mr. Pond has established agencies in all the chief towns
and country districts, the sale of domestic books and
medicine-chests being very large for the population, and on
the increase. The shrewd colonists are quick to descry
the yaluable self-help afforded in emergencies by these
simple, portable and effective remedies. All the druggists
and general stores up the country keep the medicines.
Seveial clergymen, such as Archdeacon Williams, the
Beys. Sam. Williams and J. S. Hill are warm adherents
of homoeopathy, and do much good work among the
settlers and Maories.
In the pretty little city of Nelson, on the north coast of
the Middle Island, Dr. Irvine, formerly of Leeds, has
practised and farmed land for about twenty years. In that
garden of New Zealand, famous for its fruits and flowers,
be holds a high social position, and is warmly spoken of by
all who know him. So wide-spread is the appreciation of
our system, that young medical men (allopathic) who come
out here to settle, sometimes assume a practical knowledge
of homoeopathy in order to ingratiate themselves with
those who favour that system. It must be a comfort to
immigrants who have been accustomed to homoeopathy in
England to know that now, in at least five of the chief
towns, ihey have this want provided for in a most satis-
factory manner. But nowhere has such a strong and
deeply-rooted hold of the people been achieved as in this
city of Auckland, and no other city is so fully supplied with
practitioners. The beauty of its scenery, the uniformity
and mildness of its climate, and its capacious deep-water
harbour — ^the best in New Zealand — and its comparative
J>roximity to the Hot Lake district assure for it a great
iiture. The following list of qualified and registered
homoeopathic practitioners in the colony is as correct as
can be made from accessible sources of information ; and
perhaps Messrs. Thompson and Capper might find it
useful towards a Colonial Appendix to their Directory.
Auckland, pop. 24,770. — Messrs. A. G. J?urchas,
A. Macdonald, Dr. Moore.
Christchurch, pop. 26,600. — Dr. James Irving.
Dunedin, pop. 3S,000. — Dr. Wanless.
Hokitika, pop. 8,000. — Dr. Giles, E.M. (now retired
from practice).
240 ABBENICAL POISONING. *SSSJ, aJSTJiw!
Nelson, pop. 6,600. — ^Dr. Irvine.
Wanganoiy pop. 2|600. — ^Dr. Wilkin.
Wellington, the political metropolis of the 'colony, with
ft population of about 19,000, has thus fjEur had no homoeo*
pathio practitioner.
Auckland, New Zealand,
February Istj 1881.
A CASE OP CHRONIC ARSENICAL POISONING.*
By Ds. R. Huohes.
At the beginning of November last, I was consulted by
letter relative to the case of an English nobleman, then
wintering in Italy, suffering from pemphigus. The account
given of it by the writer. Lady C— , is so full and minute
that I cannot do better tlian quote her words : —
** I must in the first place tell you that Lord C — has
been suffering from this illness now between three and four
months, and as for as I can judge as to the eruption itself,
it seems almost as far from cure as it was at the beginning.
The illness has been most severe and persevering, and the
whole body, without one single exception, has been coyered
with it. At times it dies away in one part and is more
severe in another; in fact, it seems edways to vary in
severity from one part of the body to another. The red-
ness which precedes the blisters is dtill very general all
over the body ; the blisters, however, I should say are less
numerous than they used to be, though larger. There is
much less irritation, much less or almost no heat, and the
blisters do not fill over and over again as they did, but
after being once or perhaps twice punctured they do not
rise again, which is certainly an improvement.** The
letter then went on to describe the difficulty experienced
in protecting those parts of the body exposed to chafing,
so that new cuticle should form on the denuded surfaces —
which, if let alone, it seemed ready enough to do. ** One
characteristic of this illness of Lord C — *s has been that
during the whole of the worst time there never was any
fever ; the pulse, though quick, had the quickness of irri-
* Reprinted from the Annalt of the British HomaopathiB SocUty^
Febmaiy, 1881.
S^SSTS^ ABBENICAL POISONING. 241
tation rather than feyer, and the temperature — tested con-
tinaally — ^wae ahnost myariably normal. The appetite
remained excellent, and the sleep — ^notwithstanding the
extreme irritation during the earlier part of the illness —
was wonderful. In fact, the general health, notwithstand-
ing that he was covered from the crown of the head to the
sole of the foot with this terrible eruption, accompanied by
the most distressing and painful oedema, so that the body
was nearly twice the natural size, and the same with arms,
legs, hands and feet, and even neck and head — notwith-
standing all this, as I said before, the general health has
been maintained throughout. The actions of the bowels
were perfectly regular and perfectly healthy; the urine,
tested by the most skilful chemists, pronounced on each
occasion to be that of a person in perfect health. This
swelling gradually diminished ; the china and fcrrum
given seemed to affect it, and the constant application of
lotions of salicylate of soda, with lettuce decoction, or of
solutions of quinine, has been most useful. They were
ordered by the allopathic doctor C — , a very clever man,
who has been attending him all along, and has allowed me
to give the medicines prescribed by letter and telegi-aph by
Dr. — , who had seen Lord C — before he left England,
and knows his constitution. When the swelling dimi-
nished there set in a most obstinate diarrhoBa, which lasted
without intermission for about two months, and at times
was very troublesome. It never disturbed digestion,
though the actions were at times perfectly liquid, and as
frequent as fifteen or sixteen in the twenty-four hours.
The appetite remained excellent, the strength wonderfully
little diminished, no sickness nor taste in the mouth, the
tongue, though rather red at the tip, never white. This
diarrhoea in some respects seemed of a salutary nature, for
the swelling rapidly diminished and then disappeared,
leaving Lord G— very thin, though not emaciated. No
medicines seemed to have much effect upon it, but what
did him most good was a change of air, bringing him from
the city to this place among the hills, which seems to have
been "very beneficial. He is now very decidedly better in
all respects except the continual recurrence, or rather the
non-cessation, of the eruption. The diarrhoea is gone,
the strength much recovered, the appetite most excellent,
in fact, he cannot do without very frequent food and wine.
We give him Bordeaux, and he who never drank wine at
Ko 4, Vol. 25. a
242 ABSENIOAL POISONING. ^"SS^, WfiSS!
all now craves for it, and finds the greatest support in
drinking it. He has about three bottles in two days.'*
The letter went on to state that Lord G — (with whom
I was not personally acquainted, though I had attended his
father and brothers) was sixty years of age, of regular and
abstemious habits, and of a general health unvaryingly
good ; that he had passed the previous winter on the NUe,
but with every wonted comfort about him, so there seemed
no appreciable cause for such an attack. It further men-
tioned that the new skin was (as might be supposed) very
soft and sensitive, and in a continual slight perspiration,
which on any provocation became considerable*
Now the first thought aroused in my mind by this narra-
tive was — ^how came this strange attack about ? Pemphigus,
in this acute and generalised form, is well-nigh unknown in
adults ; nor was there anything in the present patient to
account for his proving an exception to the rule. In
default of an adequate internal cause, I could but look for
one of external origin ; and thinking over the possibilities
of the case, my suspicions were strongly directed to arsenic.
It alone of all known poisons has sufficient action on the
skin to account for the development of such an eruption
as pemphigus, and the oedema, diarrhcBa and red-tipped
tongue were all familiar arsenical symptoms. I wrote
accordingly, expressing my views, and urging inquiry. At
the same time, I counselled a radical change in the local
treatment of the eruption. All wet applications were to be
discontinued, and the whole body to be anointed daily with
the best olive oil. The blisters were not to be punctured,
but supported with rags smeared with spermaceti ointment,
and their contents allowed to dry up. The nutriments and
stimulants were to be continued, and a grain of antitnonium
tartaricum 1 to be taken thrice daily, to improve the
nutrition of the skin.
A second letter, dated November 9th, at once confirmed
the justice of my suspicions. '* Your letter," it said, " has
made me think that it is possible that the cause you speak
of may explain what seems so inexplicable an illness."
After mentioning facts about the Nile boat in which the
winter, and the Italian villa in which the summer had been
spent, which seemed to exclude the possibility of arsenic
being present in either, it went on to state that for some
considerable time Lord C — had had a slight but very irri-
table affection of the skin of the pit of the throat and the
JKiSlr^A^Sr^ AB8EKICAL POISONING. 248
bend of the arms. There was little to be seen, but great
itching. A homoBopatbic physician of Paris had prescribed
arsenicum for this, — ^ten grains of the first trituration to
be dissolved in four spoonfuls of water, and one taken
night and morning. " I had always noticed," the writer
went on, " that Lord C — was very susceptible to arseni-
cum^ and I did not give the medicine for several months ;
but about three weeks or a month before coming to the
end of our Nile voyage, finding that the irritation had been
somewhat increased by the great heat, I determined to give
it a fair trial ; and accordingly most regularly gave ^m,
for three weeks, twice a day, the powders that I had
brought with me. At the end of that time Lord C —
complained of his tongue being so dry and his thirst so
great that it made him quite ill. This increased, and the
tongue became hot and dry like a parrot's, and he had chilly
fits, and got very pale, his jGace white and pinched, and his
pulse we«^ and quick, and at times very irregular and small,
with extreme prostration. The eyelids were swelled and
puffy, especially the right eye. I looked for the symptoms,
and finding them in my Jahr^ I said jokingly to my
daughters, ' I do think I must be poisoning your father by
small doses of arsenic.^ I at once stopped the medicine,
and he got rapidly better. Most profuse perspiration for
a few days seemed to relieve the system, and we thought
no more about it, as he got quite well, and the irritation
in the neck had certainly improved. About five weeks
later, when we had returned to Italy, the skin irritation
began to return more distressingly, and over a larger sur-
fiaGe, being rather down on the shoulders. I bethought me
again of my arsenic, and gave him the powders again ; but
in about a week the symptoms of dry mouth, chilliness, and
swelled eyelids returned, and I again stopped ; but about a
fortnight after this the illness began, first attacking the
feet and arms, and then the back, and then suddenly de-
veloping at once into a violent condition of crimson eruption,
followed by thousands of small blisters and a red and shiny
skiuy as in erysipelas; and then came the dreadful swelling
all over the body."
The mystery now seemed solved ; and, though the dose
of the drug was by no means excessive (equalling only about
three minims of Fowler's solution), the sensitiveness to it
previously noted was sufficient to account for the poisonous
effects. That these occurred in the system at large under
244 ABSBNICAL POIBONINa. "^£9^.%???^!
Berlew, Apifl 1, 18B1.
its QBe was imdoabted, and the pemphigas appeared only
the ultimate expression of the intoxication. The interest
of the case was now mainly therapentical. The next letter,
dated November 24th, said, ^'I have been strictly following
the treatment since I received your first letter, and I think
with very marked success. We have entirely stopped all
wet applications, and the skin is certainly gaining strength
and finnness ; we have also left off priclung all the larger
blisters, and have done as yon advised, supporting them
with lint and a little sperm ointment. I think I may say
this has been perfectly successful so far. We began the
experiment on the legs, which have been very troublesome
for some time, and have constantly formed large blisters
which had to be pricked over and over again, and in many
cases have continued unhealed and inclined to become sore
for several weeks. They were just in the condition to make
the experiment fairly, as there were several new large ones.
One we pricked as usual, and two or three we left. - Those
that were not pricked the next day had increased in size,
and also in number, and looked quite alarming to our
eyes, not that the skin was red round about, but pale, and
neither hot nor angry. The pricked one was hot and red,
as was usual. The number of large blisters increased in a
very marked manner, but we left them alone, only sup-
porting them, leaving a large hole in the middle, and by
degrees they got softer, and most of them went down quite
flat without any trouble in a couple of days. Some of
course were a Uttle longer. Some, when the loose skin
came off of its own accord were quite healed below it, but
some have been a little longer in healing. . . . The
legs are now getting distinctly better. He is oiled from
head to foot after his bath, and when he goes to bed every
night, and, as I said before, the skin looks much stronger
and firmer. ... A very curious thing is that all the
nails are coming off, the new ones are in fact nearly half
grown up ; again, I was looking at arsenic symptoms, and
find that this is one. . . . One thing still remains to
be mentioned, and that is that he is inclined to sleep a
great deal during the day, and when he wakes he is raUier
conftised and ti^es a few minutes to gather himself up.
He is also very liable to a sort of half vision, half
dreaming, which bothers him, as it is between waking
and sleeping, and it keeps him from good sound night's
rest."
B^^^flT^!^ ARSENICAL POISONING. 24u
In a postscript, dated the next day, Lady C — mentioned
two points that she had previously omitted. One was that
the pnlse was extremely intermittent : this had come on
since he had hegon to get better of the eruption. The
other was that his mouth was very sore, and had been so
for more than three months. *' The tongue has many
places in it hke aphthsB, not white like that, but the form
is the same. They begin like clear blisters, as on the
body. The edges haye a little blackish fringe around
them, and the middle of the tongue has spots that are of
a blackish colour. • . . One of these places was quite
deep* Sometimes it is the tip and sometimes the sides
that are sore, and sometimes the blisters even come on the
palate and gums."* Her ladyship added that the heart
had several times been examined with the stethoscope, and
pronounced healthy and sound.
I advised borax for the mouth ; but said that both it
and the intermittent pulse were parts of the arsenical
malady. If the heart had not been examined quite lately,
I added, I should recommend this being done.
I could have wished the story to have ended here ; but
it was destined to have a sadder close, and to show its evil
agent, the arsenic^ in yet another character. On December
9th Lady C — wrote :
** We have returned from the hills now, and a strong
confirmation of the truth of your theory of the arsenic has,
I am sorry to say, shown itself since our return. For,
having put Lord G — into the same room he occupied
during all the first part of the time we were here before
his ilhiess declared itself, he has again experienced a very
decided return of the eruption which was dying away so
satisiiaotorily, and he has not been neai-ly so well the last
week as he was. I thought that there might be some
arsenic in the walls, though painted — as I think I told you
— ^with firesco paint, and, as I supposed, at least fifty years
old. But when I had a bit of the wall scraped and sent
for analysis, I received the answer that it was full of
arsenic / The only two rooms in the house in fact that are
painted in this way are the rooms which he occupied. Of
course, before I got the answer I had removed him to other
* Dr. Oftlley Bladdey some time ago reported to the Society iAtmaU^ ix,
143) a cue of aoate pemphigas in whidi the mouth and throat were
involved. The causation in his patient was very ohsooxe; ooTild arsenic
have heen at work there ?
246 ARSENICAL POISONIKG. "jffi.^^Jfl^nSi!
rooms, bat he slept four nights in this room, and it seems
to have brought back the old suffering. I want very much
for you to suggest something fresh for the sore mouth,
which is very distressing to him. It is curious how the
inside of his mouth looks as if he had been eating charcoal ;
and even the saliva has a black colour, as if mixed with
charcoal, for it is not slimy, but clear, with little grains of
black in it. The tongue looks sodden^ and many of the
papillsB are hard and blackish, the tip and edges are red
and very sore, and he has a good deal of saliva at times,
which the soreness of his mouth prevents his being able to
manage. The blackness had quite gone, and only came
back when we returned here. ... He complains of
feeling weak and shaky, and he certainly is very much less
strong the last few days. . . . The inside of his
mouth, I forgot to say, is so curiously cold. I put my
finger in to feel the back of the tongue, and it was like a
cold wet place, instead of warm like my own."
I received this letter on Sunday, the 12th, and tele-
graphed immediately to give mercurim. Since its despatch,
however. Lord C — (as I subsequently learned) had taken
cold. His medical attendants said that there was nothing
alarming, as the catarrh did not extend below the throat.
On Monday morning, however, he seemed to have difficulty
in swallowing. The inspiration was comparatively free, but
the expiration was difficult. As he was taking some soup,
suddenly his eyes closed and his head drooped forward, a
dark flush passed for one instant over the face, but there
was not even a gasp. His death was instantaneous.
I fear I may have wearied you with this long narrative ;
but it seemed to me too instructive to be curtailed. I
would again invite your judgment as to the arsenical factor
of the case. I think there can be no doubt of its having
been the one cau^a mali throughout ; but the question is
of the relative part taken by the internal administration
and the external exposure to its influence. I should be
inclined to say that, as in the former case, the presence of
its emanations rendered the system intolerant of its medi-
cinal use, so here saturation with it as a remedy made the
patient an easy prey to it as a wall-paint, and that the
pemphigus was due immediately to the latter. Any way,
the history is of deep practical importance. It confirms
the doctrine we have always maintained, that any good
wrought by arsenic as a remedy in cutaneous disease is an
SSJi'SsrS^'' REVIEW. 247
Bamir, A|iril 1, 1881.
example of the working of the law of similars ; and adds
to the forms of skin-diisorder it can cause one in which it
is esteemed especially efifective as a remedy. It farther
makes as the more alert in watching for the possible
existence of this insidious poison in obscure cases of
illness, and adds another argument in favour of legislative
measures being taken to restrain or forbid the use of such
a noxious agent for domestic ornamentation.
REVIEW.
Abridged TherapeutieSt founded upon Histology and Cellular
PtUhology, vnth an Appendix, Special Indications for the
Application of the Inorganic Tissue Formers, By W. H.
BcHiJssiiEB, Dr. Med. et Chir. Authorised translation by
M. Doceti Walker. London : Eliot Stock, Paternoster Bow.
Pp.91.
Within the compass of 91 small pages, printed in large type,
Dr. Schiissler purports to give aU the knowledge of drugs
requisite for the successful practice of physic ! He describes it
as '* a sharply defined system of therapeutics ! "
His explanation of his plan is not very clearly made ; but, so
far as we can understand it, he assumes that in disease one or
other of the organic or inorganic constituents of the body is
deficient ; that the business of the physician is to ascertain which
of these constituents it is that is lacking, and then to supply it,
every two or three hours, in the 6th centesimal trituration. By
so doing. Dr. Schiissler's " conviction, gained in a large practice,'*
is, that he will '< cure, in the shortest way, all diseases that, on
the whole, are curable.'*
The twelve substances that alone are necessary for the practice
of medicine, after the manner of Dr. Schiissler, are cole, phos.^
cole, sulph,, cah fluorica, ferr, phos,y kali mur., kali phos,, kali
sulph., magnes, phos.i not. mur,, not, phot,, nat, sulph,, and silicea.
Among these are several that, in the hands of homoeopathic
physicians, who have derived their information concerning
them from experiments made upon the healthy, and applied
them in disease in harmony with the law of similars, have
proved to be of great value. In some instances Dr. Schiiss-
ler's theory seems to endorse homoeopathic experience, and this
is so fJEur satisfactory for the theory. But when it directs us to
reject our well tested aconite in favour of femitn phosphoricum^
we must decline to follow him.
Dr. Schiissler's explanation of his views are all too brief to be
clear. What of practical importance his book contains, that is
248 KOTABiLU. lte2^=/S5m2S'
:BeTieir, April 1, IflSt.
new, is, to say the least of it, doubtfolly true ; and what has
been ascertained to be true is certainly not new.
There is nothing in these 91 pages calculated to indnce us to
transfer our confidence from the law of similars and the Materia
Medica Para to the hypothetical pathology and abridged thera-
peutics of Dr. Schiissler.
NOTABILIA,
INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION.
We are informed that Dr. Hamilton, who was elected at the
Congress, at Leeds, to preside over the approaching Homceo-
paihic Conyention, has sent a letter to the committee appointed
to make the arraugements announcing his resignation. An
endeavour was made to induce Dr. Hamilton to withdraw his
resignation, but without avail. Such being the case, the com-
mittee were compelled to accept it, and the vice-president, Dr.
Hughes, will now fill the office of president.
Much as Dr. Hamilton's resignation is to be regretted, on
every ground, we feel sure that the position will be filled, with
honour to himself and credit to British homoeopathy, by no one
more completely than by Dr. Hughes.
• We are requested to state that the office of treasurer has also
been vacated by Dr. Bayes in consequence of his intended
removal from London. The position he has occupied will, we
are gratified to hear, be filled by Dr. Black, of 88, Kensington
Grardens Square, W., to whom aU subscriptions should in future
be sent.
The following subscriptions towards the International Homceo-
pathic Convention have been received since 28rd February : —
£ 8, d.
Amount already announoed . . .
Dr. Ussher
Dr. A. £. Hawkes ... ... ...
Dr. A. Guinness
Dr. Drysdale ... ...
Dr. Bodman ... ... ... ...
The Hon. Dr. Allan Campbell
Dr. J. Morrisson
Dr. F. Flint ... ... ... ...
Dr. Edward Blake
Dr. H. Buck ... ... ... ...
Br. Wm. Boche , ...
Dr. Wm. Scott ...
Dr. A. C. Chalmers ... ... ...
As it is necessary that the Committee should make arrange-
ments for the meetings at once, it is desirable that those who
have not yet paid their subscriptions should do so without delay.
... 72
9
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
£87
3
0
tSS^^STfS^ NOTABILU. 24d
Berisw, April 1,1881.
In order to entertain our foreign guests appropriately, it is
requested that those of our confreres who incline should offer
sums of £5 and upwards to form a guarantee fund. Seyeral
members have intimated their willingness to do so, provided from
£100 to dS200 be so guaranteed. — ^Williajc Bates, Treasurer.
THE HEBINa MEMORIAL.
Thb attention of our readers is called to the following circular
letter, recently issued. The object is one that will commend
itself to the active co-operation of all the friends of homceopathy :
Philadelphia, January Ist^ 1881.
Dear Doctor, — ^At the <' Hering Memorial Meeting," held in
Philadelphia on the 10th day of last October, at the same hour
that similar memorial meetings were held in the chief cities of
the United States and of Europe, it was unanimously resolved
to collect the various speeches and eulogies delivered at these
meetings into a volume, under the tiUe of ''The Hering
MemoniBJ,** which should serve, not only as an expression of the
veneration and affection in which we hold the memory of our
great jcolleague, but also as a monument to his surpassing
excellence as a man and physician, more enduring than any
structure in bronze or stone, and one which, we are sure, would
be more in accord with his own wishes.
The undersigned, literary executors of Dr. Hering, were
appointed to edit this memorial volume, for which the materials
are already in hand, and are merely awaiting the necessary frmds
for publication.
^e Bev. Dr. Fumess has kindly consented to write a short
memoir of his old friend, and this, with the material before-
mentioned, and various papers furnished by eminent physicians
and by personal friends, will make a volume of several hundred
pages which cannot but prove of great professional and historical
value, and at the same tune its contents will be sufficiently varied
to prove attractive to general readers, even for the few minutes
they are awaiting attention in the physician's office. The book
will be handsomely bound and illustrated.
In order to accomplish thid object, you are asked to send to
any one of the undersigned whatever sum you may find it a
pleasure to give towards the publication of this book, in memory
of one who gave freely of all he had to his beloved homoeopathy.
To all contributors to the publication fund a copy of the book
will be sent.
Messrs. Boericke k Tafel, the well-known publishers, have
kindly consented to attend, without remuneration, to the distri-
bution of the volumes ; the artist furnishes the drawings as his
^60 HOTABILIA. "feSS^SSTftSS"
Beriew, April 1, 1881.
eontribaiion ; there remains, therefore, as the sole expense of
the book, the cost of paper. engraTing, printing, and binding.
Whatever sum remains, after paying these fonr items, ynH be
presented to Mrs. Hering, in the name of all the subscribers, of
whose names a printed list will accompany each volmne.
Yours respectfully,
G. G. lUus, M.D., 121, North Tenth Street.
C. B. Enebb, M.D., 112, North Twelfth Street.
G. MoHB, M.D., 555, North Sixteenth Street
MEDICAL HYPOCRISY.
The man who in his teachings marks out a law from which there
is to be no departure, and himself disregards that law in his
daily practice, is a medical hypocrite. The braye man stands
boldly before his colleagues, with nothing to conceal. He is not
afraid of discussing the great theories of the day, not in the
spirit of one who believes that the Ultima ThuU of all science
has been reached and that there is nothing more to be learned,
but in that broader spirit which looks upon science as pro-
gressive. It is not always easy to be honest, but it is always
contemptible to be a cowaurd ; and that man is the meanest of
aU cowards, be he either theologian or physician, who places
himself in any position where he cannot act in accordance with
an enlightened judgment, or, so acting, is afraid to show it
openly. Practise what you teach and teach what you practise,
giving a reason for your work, but no apology and no excuse.
The public soon learn to respect such men, because they can
always believe in their honesty and sincerity. The profession is
full of hypocrites and cowards — men who dare not speak out
what they think ; who dare not act according to the instincts of
gentlemen, lest they o£fend professional bigots, who will turn
against them some weapon from a wonderful code of ethics or
dethrone them from their position as professional leaders.
In a profession claiming to be learned, scientific, and com-
posed of gentlemen, there is more actual cowardice, more
contemptible meanness and hypocrisy in the medical profession
than in any other — always excepting the theological. We do
not say there are no noble men in bo&i, for both are full of the
brightest examples of noble, honest, Ck)d-fearing men, whose
self-denying work and bright example should bring a blush of
shame to the miserable time-server, whose god is his pocket and
whose life is centred in self. K there were fewer faint hearts in
our profession, a little more honesty, a little less hypocrisy and
IS^KST^SSf^ NOTABltlA. HSi
Beriew, April 1, 18S1.
cowardice, and a great deal more rising above every selfish con-
sideration in our studies and in our professional labours, what
tremendous strides humanity in its highest and noblest attributes
would make in its great work of regeneration ! — Homaopathic
Times (New York).
THE MASON SCIENCE COLLEGE, BIBMINaHAM.
At the annual meeting of the Trustees of this College, held on
the 2drd February — &e 86th birthday of its munificent founder
— ^Dr. Gibbs Blake was elected Chairman for the year.
Sir Josiah Mason celebrated his birthday by making a further
endowment of £20,000 to enable the trustees to include in the
College range of study all subjects required to enable students to
take degrees in arts. Since tiie date of this meeting, Sir Josiah
has Ibeen seriously ill, but we are glad to be able to state that he
is now convalescent.
NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE HOMOEOPATHIC DISPENSARY.
We have received from Drs. Purdom and Kennedy the following
report of the work done at this institution during 1880 : —
" The number of patients entered during 1880 was 885,
which is nearly double the number in the last report (1878).
The increase in the attendance, the numbers either relieved or
cured, together with a longer list of subscribers, affords ample
encouragement that the institution is doing good work, and that
its usefulness is extending."
FOURTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE ADELAIDE
CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL, SOUTH AUSTRALU.
We are much pleased to observe the flourishing state of this
institution, which, as we have had already occasion to notioe,
was mainly established by our esteemed coUeague, the Hon.
Dr. Allan CampbeU. There are six medical officers, three of
whom are homoeopaths and three allopaths.
The hospital building was only ready for the reception of
patients about two months before the last annual meeting.
During the past year 168 sick children have been admitted.
Eighty-seven have been discharged cured, thirty-eight improved,
and four unrelieved. There have been eight deaths, and thirty-
one patients were in the wards at the date of the report. In the
out-patient department there were 6,226 cases prescribed for.
The hospital is also used as a training school for nurses. The
lectures detivered in connection with this hospital we lately took
notice of, of which Dr. Allan Campbell delivered thirty. The
Board specially state their appreciation of Dr. Campbell's
252 CORRESPONDENCE. ^,ff*Hi^f!!!S??':Sl"
BaTlew, April 1, 1881.
services, not only in this, but in many other ways, and have
appointed him life goyernorJ
It is very gratifying to receive such a report, and to see how
steadily homoaopatiiy is progressing and its value appreciated in
South Australia under the energetic guidance of Dr. CampbeU
and his colleagues. We vdsh them God-speed.
THE LONDON SCHOOL OP HOMCEOPATHY.
The annual meeting of the Governors of this Listitution will be
held in the lecture room at the London Homoeopathic Hospital
on Tuesday, the 12th inst., at 4 o'clock.
BRITISH HOMOEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
The next meeting of this Society will take place on Thursday
next, the 7th inst., at 7 o'clock, when a paper will be read by
Dr. Hawkes, of Liverpool, on Fatty Degeneration of the Heart
and Pericarditu.
THE LONDON HOMCEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
The annual meeting of the Governors and Subscribers of this
Charity will be held in the Board Room of the Hospital, on the
28th inst., at 8 o'clock in the afternoon. The Right Hon. Lord
Ebury will occupy the chair.
CORRESPONDENCE,
VACCINATION WITH CALF LYMPH.
To the Editors of the Monthly Homoeopathie Beview*
Gentlemen, — ^During the last month I have been vaccinating
with calf lymph at the London Homoeopathic Hospital eveiy
Friday at half-past two o'clock.
As I cannot now procure calf lymph for less than ninepenee
each point, and as the Board of Management decided to charge
only one shilling for vaccination at our hospital, I determined to
try whether I could not vaccinate each child effectually with one
point instead of two, as I have hitherto advocated.
Necessity is the mother of invention, and I now find I can
produce the recommended number {two perfect vesicles) with
one point.
This is an important discovery, as the demand for calf lymph
during my two years' experience in its distribution to the pro-
fession, almost always exceeded the supply.
Yours, &e.f
Geo. Wild, M.D.
12, Great Cumberland Plaea, Hyde Park.
March 8th, 1881.
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256 COBBEBPONDBHTB. '^^^SST^I'
Beriew, Apxil I, IfBl
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
«% W0 eaimot undertake to return r^eeted manuseripte.
Commnnliratiomi, fte., have been recdyed from Dr. Batss, Dr. Botb,
Mr. Habxis (London) ; Dr. Gibbs Blaks (Birmingliaai) ; Dr. DBUioccnio
(Manchester) ; Mr. Mabchamt (Bristol) ; Dr. Hatwabd (liTeipool) ; Dr.
MuBBAT Moobb (Auckland, New Zealand); Mr. Butcheb (Beading);
Dr. Simpson (Waterloo) ; Dr. Bebbidoe (Lcmdon).
BOOKS RECEIVED.
A Critieal Revision of the Encyelopadia of Materia Medica, By T. F.
Allen, M.D. New Tork.
Annalt of the British Homaopathie Society. London.
The Homoeopathic World. London.
The New England Medical Gazette. Boston.
The American Observer. Detroit.
The North American Journal of HomaoptUhy. New Tork.
The United States Medical Investigator. Chicago.
The HomcBopathic Times. New York.
The Homaopathic Courier. St. Louis.
The Medical Advance. Cincinnati.
The St. Louis Clinical Review.
American HomoBopath. New York.
Hahnemannian Monthly. Philadelphia.
The Medical Herald. St. Louis.
Homoeopathic Journal of Obstetrics. New York.
Therapeutic Gctzette. Detroit.
Bulletin de la Soc. Mid. Horn, de France. Paris.
Bibliothlque Homotopathique. Paris.
VArt Medical. Paris.
Revue HomoBopathique Beige. Brussels.
AUgemeine HomUqpathische Zeitung. Leipsic.
HomJSopathische Rundschau. Leipsic.
El Criterio Medico. Madrid.
Boletino Clinico. Madrid.
La Reforma Medica. Mexico.
Papers, Dispensary Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. Pope, Lee Boad, London, S.E., or to Dr. D. Dtcb Bbowm, 29, Seymour
Street, Fortman Square, W. Advertisements and Business Commimi-
nations to be sent to Messrs. E. Gould & Son, 59, Moorgate Street, B.C.
B^SS!^2?tS^ IKTERNATIONAL CONVENTION. 267
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW-
THE INTERNATIONAL HOMOEOPATHIC
CONVENtlON.
Five years ago there assembled in the City of Philadelphia
a meeting of homoeopathic practitioners from well nigh
every part of the world. The President on the occasion
was the late Dr. Cabroll Dunham — a man whose name is
held in the greatest respect by aU who are familiar with his
writings, one whose memory is loved and reverenced by all
among whom he lived and practised the profession of which
he was so bright aoi ornament. The gathering was snc*
cessfaly the work brought forward interesting and instruc-
tive, and the social intercourse of the week full of pleasure
and advantage to all concerned.
The desire that after an interval of five years a similar
reunion should be held in some other part of the world,
was but the expression of the interest diat had been excited.
Within three months from the conclusion of the proceed-
ings of this convention, British homoeopathic practitioners
at the Congress held at Clifton resolved to invite homoeo-
pathic practitioners from all parts of the world to meet
No. 5, Vol. 35. s
268 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION. ^eS£i?S??M8i!
together in London dnring this present year of 1881. The
time is rapidly approaching when this most important
meeting will take place. We therefore desire to draw to
it the attention of all medical men practising homoeopathy
in this conntry, to enlist their sympathies in promoting its
snccess, and to nrge npon them the dnty as well as the
advantage of taking a personal part in its proceedings.
The reports which have been receiyed from abroad give
ns every reason for hoping that the assemblage will be
thoronghly cosmopolitan. A very lively interest in the
Convention has been excited both in America and through-
out the Continent of Europe. In the United States a
committee has been formed for the purpose of giving to the
homoeopathic practitioners throughout the country every
information they can require. The holding of the annual
meeting of the American Institute of Homoeopathy has
been so timed, and the locality so chosen, as to afford
special facilities for arriving in England a little before the
day when the Convention will assemble. Special rates have
been quoted by first-class steamship companies as a further
inducement to onr coUeagues to visit the old conntry.
So anxious are our American friends to be on British
soil as soon as possible, that they are, we hear, going to
sail from Quebec ! How many we may expect to have the
pleasure of welcoming, it is of course impossible to foresee.
But we hope that fully one hundred may be able to come,
while we are well assured that a great many hundreds will
sincerely desire to do so. All we can say is, that the larger
the company the more gratified shall we be.
France and Belgium, where homoeopathy is so well and
powerfully represented, and Germany, the Yaterland of
Hahnemann, will, we have reason to believe, each be well
represented. From Italy and Spain, it is anticipated that
l£S^£Ti?3M!^ INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION. 269
several arrivals may also be expected. A thoronghly hearty
welcome may assuredly be predicted for our Continental
brethren.
To render the visit of our American and Continental
guests as full of enjoyment and satisfaction to them as may
be in our power, must be our first consideration. To the
complete fulfilment of this duty we call upon all British
homoeopathic practitioners to lend not only a willing hand,
but an anxious and earnest heart.
By those of us who reside in and around the metropolis,
the privileges of extending hospitality will be monopolised,
and will, we trust, be largely exercised. We may here
remind those who have not yet replied to Dr. Bubnett's
circular, asking what hospitality they may be able to ofier,
that the local Secretary for London will be glad to hear
firom them as early as possible, in order that our friends
may meet with a suitable reception immediately on their
arrival in town.
While our colleagues in the country will necessarily be
precluded from opening their houses, they will by their
presence in London aid most materially in enabling those
who reside here to render the visit of our foreign guests
pleasurable one. We trust then that they will come
amongst us in considerable numbers, taking an active part
in the work of the meetings and in the entertainment of
those firom distant lands.
The President is, as we announced in our last number.
Dr. BicHABD Hughes, a physician than whom no one
amongst us is more highly regarded both for the excellent
work he has accomplished in the cultivation of homoeopathy,
and for his personal qualities. The Vice-Presidency, bein^
vacant, will be fiUed up at the first meeting of the Con-
vention. Dr. GiBBS BlaeE) of Harboume Bead, Edgbastoc^
Birmingham, is the General Secretary ; Dr. Bubnett, of
260 INTSBNATIOKAL CONVEOTION. ^SSIJ^Tiro!
5y Holies Street, Cavendish- Square, Local Secretary for
London ; Dr. Hatwabd, of Grove Street, Liverpool, the
Local Secretary for the west side of the conntiy; and
Dr. Black, of 83, Kensington Gardens Square, is the
Treasnrer. Either of these gentlemen will afford any infor-
mation regarding the arrangements of the meetings that
may be desired. Dr. Black will be especially gratified by
a rapid increase in the nimiber of subscriptions. It is of
considerable importance that all contributions to the funds
of the Convention should be paid in as early as possible in
order that the Committee may be able to conclude the
necessary arrangements at once.
The opening meeting on Monday evening, the 11th of
July — ^the President's reception — ^will be of a purely social
character. It will be held at the rooms engaged for the
meetings of the week, those of the Dilettante Society in
Argyll Street, Regent Street. The invitations to this
meeting will include all the members of the Convention,
together with the ladies of their fiomilies. Its chief object
is to bring the members together for mutual intercourse,
the inspection of objects of artistic and scientific interest,
and to enjoy some good music.
On Tuesday, at 2.80 p.m., the first general meeting will
be held> and the Convention be opened by an address £rom
the President. At its conclusion the reports of the progress
of homoeopathy in different parts of the world will be pre-
sented, and a summary of them read from the chair. These
reports will be fbmished — ^for Great Britain and her Colo-
nies, by Dr. Pope ; for the United States, by Dr. Taiaot ;
for France, by Dr. Claude ; for Germany and Austria, by
Dr. H. GouLLON, jun. ; for Belgium, by Dr. Mabtiny ; for
Italy, by Dr. Bernard Arnulpht ; for Russia, by Dr.
BojANus; for Canada, by Dr. Nichoi*; for India, by Dr.
Sircab. These reports will form the basis of a discussiiw
B^^STSn?^ INTERNATIONAL X50NVENTI0N. 261
on the present state and fdtore prospects of homoBopathy
thronghoat the world, and the best methods of making it
still more generally known. Dr. Bayes, Dr. Talbot (Bos-
ton), and Dr. Claude (Paris) will open the discussion, so
that the subject may be examined from the several points
of view of England, the United States of America, and the
Continent of Europe. Doubtless many other speakers will
assist in promoting the thorough ventilation of a subject at
once so important and so interesting.
The further details of the programme of the week we
will give in the words of the British Journal of Hoinoso-
pathy (April, p. 106) : —
*< On the Wednesday afternoon, at the same hour, we shall
begin our more strictly scientific work. The subject of the day
will be the Institutes — or general principles — of Homoeopathy,
and Materia Medica. Of the essays sent in or promised in this
department those of the earlier division have lent themselves
more readily to discussion ; though some of the latter kind
furnished by Drs. Allen, E. M. Hale, Heber Smith, and Burnett,
will adorn the transactions of the Convention. The first sabject
of discussion will be, as announced, ' The selection of the remedy
with especial reference to individualisation and generalisation.'
This originally grew out of the offer of a paper on the part of
Dr. Berridge, ' On the selection of the remedy.* Feeling sure
that extreme views as to individualisation would herein be main-
tained. Dr. Hughes undertook to prepare a contribution setting
forth the other side of the truth, and Dr. Hayle, of Bochdale,
was asked — as occupying somewhat of intermediate ground — to
express his views on the subject. This he has done, in a paper
exhibiting all the qualities of thought and style which distinguish
him, entitled < Thoughts on the Scientific Application of the
Principle of Homoeopathy to Practice.' It rejects the extreme
Habnemannian method of selection per enuvierationem simpUcem^
and advocates a more philosophical symptomatology as our basis
ibr prescribing. Dr. Beiridge has since withdrawn his offer ;
262 INTEBNATIONAL CONVENTION. ^B^L^SSS^sf?^
and Dr. Fenion Cameron, another representative of the same
school, has declined to supply his place. An application to
Dr. Hawkes, of Chicago, has been more successful ; and, from
what we know of his writings, there is every reason to expect
that individualisation and prescribing by ' characteristics * will be
both ably an^ fairly justified. These three papers, then, by
Drs. Hayle, Hawkes, and Hughes, will form the basis of the
discussion on ' the selection of the remedy ; * and Dr. Drysdale
is expected to be its opener.
** An elaborate essay on Alternation, by two of our most
eminent Belgian colleagues. Dr. Martihy of Brussels and Dr.
Bernard of Mons, furnishes the next subject for debate. They
urge, both on theoretical and on practical grounds, a wide
adoption of the practice ; and it is hoped that someone who is
opposed to it will come forward to take up the gage they have
thrown down so boldly and well. Dr. Hayward has expressed
his intention of taking part in the discussion, but rather on
their side.
'< The next subject is that without discussing which no
gathering of homoeopaths could depart satisfied — the vexed
question of dose. Some novelty, however, wiU be imported into
it by the point of view from which mainly it will be presented
by those who handle it. In the articles on ' Triturations ' and
* Dilutions * in our two last numbers, we have sketched somo of
the thought and work lately expended in America on the
scientific aspect of infinitesimal quantities and their effects.
Dr. J. P. Dake, under' whose headship the Materia Medica
Bureau of the American Institute of Homoeopathy has for two
years worked at this subject, wiU sum up their labours for as ;
and Dr. Conrad Wesselhoeft, to whose researches we have made
such ample reference, will discuss the relative value of such
evidence as compared with that resulting from practice. Hence
will arise the third subject of debate for the day. Those who
desire to take part in it, however, will receive another essay as
bearing on the question, though covering a much wider range.
It is by Dr. Cretin, of Paris, and entitled * The question of dose :
iSriSJfj^'nSf^ INTEBNATIONAL CONVENTION. 263
Hahnemanziiamsm and Homoeopathy.' Coming from bis pen, it
may be well expected to be a vigorous exposition of the rational
and anti-mystio way of regarding onr system of practice.
'* We come now to Thursday's work, which is to be deyoted to
Practical Medicine, and that special branch of it now called
Gynsecology. In the former category a good many of our
^ontribations will find place. Those among them which have
furnished the first subject for discussion are papers by
Dr. Holcombe, of New Orleans, on yellow fever, by Dr. Sircar*
of Calcutta, on the results of his experience in cholera and other
■acute diseases occurring in his sphere of practice, and by
Dr. Carter, now of Sydney, on dysentery as seen by him while
in India. These have suggested < homoeopathy in hyper-acute
diseases ' as a topic on which all who practise in the tropics or
tbeir neighbourhood can enlarge with advantage to their
colleagues. The addition of ' hyperpyrexia ' to the definite forms
of disorder already named will give those of us who live in less
4u:dent climates an opportunity of contributing to the discussion,
ibs the feature in question is not uncommonly seen in acute
disease everywhere, and its treatment urgently demands con-
aderation.
'<Dr. Gutteridge, who has devoted a good deal of attention to
■cancer, has favoured us with a paper on its etiology and treat-
ment, which will be read with much interest ; and ' the possi-
l}ilitie8 of medicine ' (as distinct from surgery) in this terrible
•disease will next occupy the attention of the meeting. Mr. Clifton
will open the discussion on the subject, and Dr. Bnmett will take
^art in it.
*' Oynsecology will then be in order ; and we have ' the
treatment of affections of the os and cervix uteri ' as the special
point for consideration. The question how far these maladies, so
-common in the weaker sex, are amenable to the internal medication
4uid gentle local appliances with which we treat other diseases is a
moot one, and of no little importance. We have secured the
.services of three of our London practitioners, who are known to
have cultivated this fieldj as essayists, on the subject ; we speak
264 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION. ^^g^JlL^SSJ?^^
Behev, Hay % ISBl.
of Drs. Djce Brown, Edward Blake, and Carfiite. Another^
Dr. Matheson, will take part in thi^ discussion, which is to be
opened by no less a person than Dr. Ludlam, of Chicago.
** On Friday, we are to be occupied with Surgical Therapeutics^
Ophthalmology, and Otiatrics. We are unable as yet to fix the
subject for discussion in the first of these spheres. We h&Te
succeeded in securing but few promises of essays, and of those
which are forthcoming we do not as yet know even the names.
This blank we hope ere long to fill. The diseases of the eye
and ear are better supplied. The very important question
of the treatment of iritis, especially in the syphilitic form, will
come before the ophthalmologists. It wiU be handled in essays
by Dr. Vilas, of Chicago, Dr. Campbell, of St. Louis, and
probably Dr. Dekeersmaecker, of Brussels ; and, as the disease
not unfrequently comes before us all in daily practice, it is
sure to find speakers ready to communicate their experience
in its management. In ear disease, no single point has be^
selected for discussion, as the only paper in this department
on which we can at present count is one from our
own Dr. Cooper, which is a series of notes upon the use
of homoeopathic remedies in aural practice. The general question
however as to what place homoeopathy occupies in otiatrics, a&
compared with the local and mechanical measures in vogue in
the old school, is one which may well be thoroughly ventilated.
" The meeting of Saturday wiU be held half an hour earlier, to
enable country members to leave for home by the afternoon
trains. The business will be of a supplementary and misceUaneoos
kind ; but there is sure to be a good deal remaining over to be
talked about after the fixed programme of the previous days has
been got through, and those who attend on Saturday will not be
unrewarded for their presence.
'< Besides the general meetings of the Convention now
sketched, the hall of assembly will be free in the forenoons for
such special and sectional gatherings as may be organised among
the members themselves. One of these to be occupied with the
subject of hygiene is ah^eady being planned and prepared for by
bSSJJTiST?^ ™>»» QUAIN, AND JENNER. fi66
onrindefatigabla ooUeagaeDr. Both ; and Dr. Duncan, of Chicago^
will probably call together on one of the forenoons his brother
piedologists."
With such a " bill of fare " before us, we have indeed
a light to expect a thoronghly saceessfal gathering daring
ihe second week of July. Our readers will, on reading it^
feel at once that such a programme as this has not been
completed without a very great amount of care, of thought^
and of sheer hard work. When they reflect upon this we
would have them remember that this care, this thought,
this work has proceeded from Dr. Bighabd Hugheb. It is
true that Committees have been appointed to develop the
scheme, but it is equally true that they have throughout
supported rather than aided Dr. Hughes. Nearly, if not
quite, every arrangement, every suggestion, has been ini-
tiated by him ; and we should not err if we added thai
nearly every letter in the vast correspondence that has been
necessary has been written by him. To him, then, our
heartiest thanks are due — thanks which we trust will be
rendered not only in words, but by giving to him our most
cordial support as our President, and by aiding by our
presence at the meetings to render the occasion as
brilliantly successful as it is in the power of British
homcBopathists to do.
KIDD, QUAIN, AND JENNER.
The anxiety which has been naturally felt during the
.fatal illness of the illustrious statesman, towards whose
sick chamber all eyes have lately been turned, has been
tinged with disgust at the unseemly behaviour of two
physicians of high standing, whose assistance in the efforts
Ibeing made to save his life was requested.
266 KIDD, QUAIN, AND JENNEB. "SS^fSSJ^fm!
It is well known that Dr. Kidd has for some years been
the medical attendant of the late Lord Beaconsfield*
It is equally well known that Dr. Kidd is commonly
regarded as a homceopathic physician, and it is also true
that in a greater or less degree Dr. Ktdd does practise
homoBopathically — ^to what extent he does so his book,
entitled The Laws of Therapeutics, sets forth quite
xslearly.
Some weeks ago it was announced that the Earl of
Beaconsfield was '' slightly indisposed," and that his
medical attendant recommended him to keep the house for
a few days. Presently, announcements of this type became
more serious. The illness of the noble lord did not yield,
to the measures adopted. Then came, from Boyal and
other quarters, an urgent demand for further advice. Upon
this, Dr. Kidd wrote to Sir William Jenneb, asking him
to help him. Sir William point blank dech'ned to do any-
thing of the kind. Dr. Quain was also appealed to by
Lord Barbington, and after a certain amount of hesitation,
s written assurance from Dr. Kidd that he had not treated
Lord Beaconsfield homcsopathically — a statement which
the unchecked progress of the noble Earl's illness testified
to the truth of — ^that he would do for Lord Beaconsfield
whatever Dr. Quain directed him to do, and having been
flatisfied by Sir Thomas Watson, Sir Risdon Bennett, and
Sir James Paget, that there was no harm in his meeting
Dr. EiDD under the circumstances — he went. All that
Dr. EiDD had done for the patient met with Dr. Quain's
approval. It had been lamentably unsuccessful, it is true,
lut so, as a rule, is all allopathic treatment in such cases ;
BO that Dr. Quain had nothing to object to on that score.
Sir William Jenneb on one occasion saw Lord Beacons-
field with Dr. QtJAiN — ^Dr. Eidd being out of the room.
At another time Sir William saw Lord Beaconsfield
S^^Sjt^Sf" KIDD, QUAIN, AND JENNEB. 267
when Dr. EIidd was present, bat at a sufficient distance
firom him to prevent his presence having any prejudicial
influence upon the chances of Sir Wiluam's being elected
President of the College of Physicians during the following
week ! This little bit of bye-play was got up because Lord
Beagonsfield had, on the first occasion when Sir Williah
Jenneb saw him^ remarked on the absence of Dr. Eidd
from the room ; and his lordship was too weak the second
time to allow Sir William Jenneb to run the risk of
insulting his trusted medical attendant to his face. Hence
he did so by arrangement !
Sir William Jenneb in his note to Dr. Eidd gives as
his reason for refusing to meet him, that he does '' not
think that Lord Beaconsfield's interest could in any way
be served by our meeting; on the contrary it could not
be without risk to him." There would have been a
much more obvious amount of truth in this passage if
in place of '^ Lord Beaconsfield's " interest it had read '
Sir William Jenneb's !
The great object that Dr. Quain, Sir William Jenneb,
and Sir William Gull — ^who was consulted by Sir William
Jenneb — ^appear to have had in view was obtaining Dr.
Kmn's dismissal from the noble earl's service, and their
own instalment. In this they have failed, as they deserved
to fidl. They have, however, not been without their
revenge ! The position into which they have forced
Dr. Ktdd was undoubtedly a most humiliating one.
At the Comitia Majora of the College of Physicians,
when Dr. QuAm went to confession, he had the imperti*
nence to state that on consulting the Medical Directory he
found that Dr. Eidd was a qualified practitioner. To
suppose that he was otherwise was a piece of afiiectation,
fln assumption of ignorance which could have had no other
object than to offer an insult to a physician who is well
268 KIDD, QUAIN, AND JENNER. ^1L*^w^l£??lw!
known thronghont the whole of London as possessing a
larger share of public confidence than any other medical
man of the day — Dr. Quain himself not excepted !
Then again, in order to persuade these big wigs of the
College of Physicians to let him off as easily as might be,
Drs £n>D has been tempted into print, and left on record
two statements that coming from most people would be
regarded as contradictory. ''Like other practitioners/'
he writes to the Lancet, '' I use the drags of the British
Pharmacoposiay but in many cases I have learned from
experience that what are called homoeopathic remedies
may be usefully prescribed; " while in a letter, dated three
days later, so great is his attachment to homoeopathy that
he exclaims, '' I cling, with strong purpose of heart and
conscience, to the law of homoeopathy, only because I
believe it to be true, and find it, every day of my
life, to be the most invaluable help in curing my
patients." Again, he vnrites, '' The allopathic doctor's
inability to cure many diseases is because he ignores
the help of the homoeopathic law, of which I am not
ashamed. Deprive me of its help and I should retire
from practice altogether."
As we have said. Dr. Ejdd has clearly defined his thera-
peutic faith in his book. He there shows that in acute dis-
ease no remedies act curatively with so much promptitude
as do such as are homoeopathic : while in chronic disease,
he seems to think that palliatives alone are available, and
consequently in such he relies upon allopathy. Whether
Dr. KiDD is right in so limiting the advantages of homoeo-
pathy is a question of experience ; and we will venture to
say that all homoeopathic physicians, who, when face to
face with a case of complex chronic disease, have carefully
referred, in their study of it, to the Materia Medica, and
have prescribed accordingly, will unhesitatingly assert that
tert^^STvS!^'' ^^^i QUAIN AND JBNNBB. 269
Br. EiDD is wrong. That antipathic palliatives do give
immediate relief very fineqnentiy we all know, bat there is
the reaction, the inevitable reaction, which too often leaves
the disorder worse than it was before. The difficulty of
finding a troly h<mioeopathic specific in snch cases is, we
admit, very generally great. Bat that it can be done, has
been done over and over again, is certain.
Dr. EmD is correctly described as a ^'repated homoeo*
path." We are glad to have the acknowledgment his ex<
tensive experience compels him to give that homoeopathy is
invaluable in acate disease ; bat the general public suppose
that he regards it as of equal importance in chronic dis-
orders— and go to him accordingly ; they go to avoid the
necessity of antipathic palliatives, of which in many in-
stances they have had too many already. The results of
such measures are not one whit better in the hands of
(me physician than they are in those of another; but,
when they are provided by Dr. Eidd, they are supposed to
be homceopathic; and failure to afford relief is at once attri-
buted to a failure of homoeopathy ! This is certainly not as
it ought to be.
That his practice may be known 'to be but partially
homoeopathic Dr. Kibd has withdrawn from the Council of
the London Homoeopathic Hospital and from the British
Homoeopathic Society. More recently, within the last three
weeks (a somewhat ominous date by the way), he has with-
drawn from the Council of the London School of Homoeo-
pathy.
The retrospect of the case in which Dr. Kidd has
performed so conspicuous and important part is not a
pleasant one. How far homoeopathy, properly applied at
the outset, might have checked the inroad of disease before
fatal mischief had been set up, it is of course impos-
sible for us to say. But we are sure that all homoeopathic
270 KIPD, QUAIH, AHP JKNNEB, ^'^^^^.
experience will corroboimte ns when we assert that an
accurately selected, a truly homcBopathic specific, when
given early and with judgment, very generally checks the
course of disease with a degree of rapidity that would
surprise all who have never tested the value of a remedy
of the kind under similar circumstances.
It shows us also the determination which still exists on
ihe'part of leading allopathic physicians to refuse all aid
to sick persons under the care of such medical men as
know firom experience the value of homceopathically chosen
remedies. This, which was always inexcusable, is now
much more so than it was thirty years ago. Then it was
said that homoeopathy was '' opposed to the experience of
the profession." Now that Ringer, Phillips, Bartholow,
and Horatio Wood are accepted authorities in therapeutics,
this cannot be alleged. A very large proportion of their
recommendations are but the outcome of practical homoeo-
pathy !
It further shows that when a series of circumstances
arise in an individual case, involving in such refusal an
amount of unpopularity it would be hazardous to en-
counter, the position is accepted with a set resolve to
render it as humiliating to the '^reputed homoeopath."
as it is possible to make it.
Dr. EiDD in standing by Lord Beaconsfield in spite of
eveiything calculated to induce him to withdraw, has un-
questionably made great sacrifices, sacrifices which seem
to us scarcely consistent with self-respect. His attention,
his unwearying attention night and day for so long a time,
must command admiration, and whatever therapeutic
views he may hold, whatever means he may have adopted
to relieve his patient, he has, and is entitled to have, the
sympathy of the country.
SSSSJfjaT^TJSf!^ KIDD, QUAIN AND JENNER. 271
Of the conduct of Sir William Jbnnbb and Dr. Quain
we need say little. It has already received almost nniyersal
eondemnation from the general press. The Lancet rejoices
oyer the adamantine character of Sir William Jenkeb'b
decision, and deplores the laxity of Dr. Qtiain! The other
«
medical papers seem to think that ''under the circum-
stances " Dr. Qfain could not very well have acted otherwise
than as he did.
The Scotsman in a trenchant article on the situation
referring to the announcement in the Lancet that
Sir William Jenkeb had ''not met Dr. Einb in con-
Bultation/' says : —
" A load must have been lifted from the breast of the faculty
on receiying the assurance quoted above, that the rumours of
Sir William Jenner having been more humane than punctilious
were entirely false. To the finely stnmg professional mind the
idea was, of course, shocking and intolerable that Sir William
Jenner could have so far forgotten what was due to the profession
as to have gone to the help of Lord Beaconsfield when he was
believed to be dying. ' What communion hath light with dark-
ness, or the Queen's physician with a ' reputed homoeopath ! *
Sir William, then, did not consult with Dr. Eidd ; on the con-
trary, he expressly declined to do so ' and therein he showed
proper spirit and self-respect. Lord Beaconsfield might have
died ; but that, it would have been said, was the natural result of
having entrusted his life to the care of a ' reputed homoeopath ; '
and those who are so foolish as to do so must take the conse-
quences."
Of Dr. Quain the writer of this article says with much
point that "Listead of hastening to relieve distress, he went
about making sure of his own position and reputation."
The lessons to be learnt from all this unseemly wrangling
beside the death-bed of an aged and illustrious statesman,
the editor of the Scotsman sums up as follows : —
272 KIDD, QUAIN, AND JSNHEB. 'SSJl.^SSTiM.
" The loss that ib faeiiig made over this aspect of the ease,
vithin the medical prafessioiiy snggeiis some reflections that aie
not quite satis&etoiy from the point of view of the public
interest. The excessiTe care taken by Dr. Qoain to make sore
of his position before joining Dr. Eidd, and still more, the
manner of his elaborate explanation addressed to the Boyal
College of Physicians on Monday evening, seem to indicate a
dread of terrible consequences in the event of the profession not
faa\'ing been satisfied of the propriety of his conduct. The
qnestion which called for that explanation distinctly implied
censure of what Br. Quain was supposed to have done, and if
his statement had not been satis&ctory, certainly censure, and
probably more serious results, would have followed. This
suggests that the rules of what aie called professional etiquette
do not difier materiaUy <Hr practically from the roles of trade
unionism. The anxiety of Dr. Quain to conform to profesoonal
rule indicates a kind of terrorism, different in degree perhiffl^
but certainly not different in kind from that produced by
* rattening ' at Sheffield. In his studied ignoring of Dr. Kidd,
even when the latter was in his company, Sir William Jenner
betrayed precisely the same feeling. This conduct would be
childish, if it did not imply the existence of a very unhealthy
condition of things. That condition of things has also a
serious side for the public. If it means, as it seems to mean,
that an allopath who consults with a ' reputed homoeopath ' loses
caste and exposes himself to * rattening,' that is bad enou^.
But if it means, as it also seems to do, that patients who prefer
homoeopathy will be * boycotted ' by the allopaths, the case is still
worse. Sir William Jenner's conduct and Dr Quain's defence
are, in fact, an intimation to the public that anyone who is
foolish enough to employ a homoeopathic physician need not apply
to them in time of sorest need. That being so, it may be
necessary for the public to take measures for its own protection
against an outrageous monopoly."
^t^^^^n^' SCABLATINA. 273
BeTiew, IffftyS, 1881.
CASES OF SCARLATINA SELECTED FROM
PRACTICE.
By John Drummond, L.R.C.P.E., M.R.C.S. Eng.
I HAVE selected the following cases from a large number of
patients, who, during a recent and wide-spread epidemic of
scarlet fever, have been under my care. They are interest-
ing and instructive, because they illustrate some of the
manifold phases of the disease which we are constantly
seeing in the sick chamber. No disease presents a greater
diversity of type. During a single epidemic, or even in a
batch of cases occurring in the same family, we meet with
cases of fearful malignancy running side by side with others
of a perfectly benign character. In its worst form the
patient is prostrated by the potency of the poison, and often
dies before any of the ordinary phenomena of the disease
are developed. In the month of July, 1878, such a case
came under my notice. The patient, a little girl aged 7,
returned from school in the afternoon, complaining of great
lassitude and sore throat. Her mother, thinking she was
feverish, gave her a warm bath, put her to bed, and
administered aconite and helladonna every hour. She
vomited soon afterwards, and was sick many times before
midnight, when she fell into a fitful slumber, with inco-
herent muttering and delirium, and twitchings of the
extremities. These subsided, and the child appeared to
pass into a heavy slumber, perspiring freely, and the mother
watched hour by hour, hoping she would awake and be
better. At six in the morning she sent for me. I found
the child lying in a state of stupor, bathed in perspiration ;
pulse so rapid and weak that I could not count it ; tempera-
ture 106.4 ; pupils insensible to the stimulus of light, and
dilated ; and the breathing short and stertorous. I had the
child wrapped in a blanket wrung out of hot water and
mustard, and administered half an ounce of brandy in thin
arrowroot by enema. No attempt to rally was made, and
the child died within twelve hours of the first serious
symptom of vomiting at eight on the previous evening.
I expressed an opinion that the disease was scarlet fever,
but as the symptoms were so obscure, I gave an open
certificate as to the cause of death — *' Fever with delirium."
Within a week other cases of scarlet fever occurred in the
same household.
Ko. 5, YoL U. T
OT^ a/1 A AT A firm a Mooliily HoDMBOptflilc
BefiBW, May 2, ISBl.
In July of the following year I had the misfortune to
lose three cases in one fiunilyy almost identical in type.
Constance C, aged 17 months, was taken ont hy the nurse
daring the morning of Jnly IStiii, 1879. She soon returned,
as the child appeared poorly. Whilst the mother was nn-
dressing it, the child vomited, and immediately afterwards
had a convulsion. I was attending a very simple case of
scarlet fever in the fiimily, and call^ just at the time this
happened. I placed the little patient in a warm bath, and
afterwards had it enveloped in a blanket wrung out of hot
water and mustard, and appUed a spirit lotion to the head.
After the convulsion had passed away, as the circulation
seemed in a state of collapse, I administered brandy and
vroter in repeated doses, and left belladonna A and cuprum
acet. 1 to be given in ^ drop doses evety fifteen minutes for
four doseSy and then every half hour, llie stomach rejected
everything that was given, and several slight convulsions
recurred during the aft^oon. In the evening coma
supervened, the temperature ran up to 105.3 ; the skin was
in a bath of perspiration; the breathing became more
hurried and stertorous : the sphincters relaxed ; and death
released the little sufiTerer thirteen hours after its first
seizure.
Jessie C, aged 4, was taken ill on the 17th July, with
violent sickness, and I saw her within two hours. The
skin was hot ; temperature 102.1 ; pulse 108 ; great pallor,
with dark circles around the eyes. She complained of sore
throat, and I found the tonsils tumid and covered with an
ashy diptheritic deposit. The child had appeared well on
the previous day, had passed a perfectly tranquil night, and
had made a gooid breakfast on the morning when she was
taken ill. I ordered a hot blanket pack, and gave aconite
and belladonna every half hour. In four hours the
temperature ran up to 104, and the pulse to 120, and the
cervical glands were swollen. The child was apathetic,
and appeared quite heedless as to what was done to her. She
drank water and weak brandy and water quite greedily, but
was sure to vomit it immediately afterwards. Upon re-
moving the blanket the skin seemed reddened, and there
was a distinct rash about the axilla and groins. In the
evening the symptoms were graver, the temperature had
increased to 105.1 ; diarrhoea had set in ; about midnight
there was no trace of the rash, and the skin was bathed in
perspiration, which stood in large beads on the forehead
ISwiS^^r^^X.*"" SCARLATINA. 275
, Vaj S, 16B1.
and face ; there was constant twitching of the extremities^
and the child was quite comatose. Death ensaed the
following morning, after an illness of sixteen hours.
Beatrice MarjG., aged three years, on the same morning
was taken from her bed by the nurse and dressed as usual,
nothing attracting her attention. She refused her breakfast,
and Yery shortly afterwards began to vomit. The distracted
mother sent for me at once, and I saw her within half an
hour, but she was then in a state of complete collapse, from
which she never rallied, and died ten hours after the
beginning of her illness. These cases illustrate the terrible
nudignancy of this disease in its most virulent form. The
nervous system is paralysed from the onset, and the vital
forces succumb, without any efibrt to react, consequently
there is no development of the usual symptoms of the
disease, and it is only by the surrounding conditions that
we can actually be certain scarlatina poison has been the
destroying agent. Trousseau impressively guards us in
the following way : " During an epidemic of scarlatina, par-
ticularly when the disease has already attacked persons in
immedmte communication with your patient, you should be
very guarded in your diagnosis, if the case present cerebral
symptoms. Be specially guarded if such symptoms declare
themselves at the beginning of the illness, as they then
idmost always announce that the malady is malignant
scarlatina, which, with very few exceptions, proves rapidly
fatal. I must insist upon this point, as inattention to it
will cause serious errors of diagnosis, and give rise to
mistakes in prognosis exceedingly injurious to the reputa-
tion of the physician. People forgive us more easily for
allowing our patients to die, than for having made a
mistake as to the issue of an illness." Many years ago,
perhaps eighteen, I was severely censured by the father of a
family, whose children were under my care for scarlet fever,
because, when I was consulted about one of them, who
appeared to be sickening as the others had done, I
prescribed without foretelling anything more serious.
When I paid my next visit the following morning, the child
was dead, and I had been superseded by another practi-
tioner, who unhesitatingly assured the parents, *' the child
had not had scarlet fever at all, but had died from inflam-
mation of the membranes of the brain with rapid efTusion,
and if he had seen the child a few hours earlier, he could
have saved its life/'
T— 2
276 SCARLATINA. "ISSL^S??^
Rerfew, Hay 9, ISBl.
Malignant cases which recover present symptomB of
great severity, of a marked typhoid type. The nurse who
had attended to the cases jnst described may be cited aa
an example.
A. P., a strong, healthy woman, in her twenty-fonrth
year, having lost much rest, and suffered extreme anguish
of mind, was seized with severe rigors on the 19th July,
1879. She complained of faintness, intense headache,
with vertigo when she attempted to rise from the pillow,
and the sound of machinery buzzing in her head ; she
frequently vomited, and expressed a certainty she was
dying ; pulse 115, temperature 103.1 ; sore throat and
great weakness, so great that she got to bed with difficulty
an hour after the commencement of her sickness, every
effort to undress bringing on renewed vomiting. BelL lx»
Aconite Ix.
20th. Bad night, some delirium, mouth dry and
parched ; pulse 120 ; temperature 104 ; tonsils and cervical
glands swollen, diphtheritic patches on each tonsil. Repeat
bell, and acanitef and give gr. ij. mere, biniod. every third
hour.
21st. Tongue brown and dry, teeth covered with sordes,
pulse 120 ; temperature, morning, 108.2 ; evening, 104.8.
Continue medicines. A gargle of permanganate of potash
(gr. j. to the 5j.) to be used every three hours, brandy,
beef tea and nutnents to be taken as freely as possible.
22nd. Extreme exhaustion, trembling of extremities,
very little sleep, and what there is very disturbed ; the
throat is very bad, and the exudation has extended over the
soft palate and uvula. The skin for the first time is fairly
covered with rash, which is of a dark reddish colour.
Bowels relaxed twice during the night; breath very foetid.
Arsen. 1, bell, Ix.
2Srd. Had a better night, and is taking more nourish-
ment. Continue the medicines.
25th. Decided improvement. The throat clear from
exudation, and she wishes to leave off the gargle, which
makes her feel sicklv. Substituted one of chlorate of
potash eight grains to ounce. During the following week
she went on satisfactorily, the skin is peeling from the
neck, axillsB, and bends of the knees.
August 2nd. She complains of pain in the knee joints,
which prevents her bearing any weight upon them, and
although up yesterday, she is compelled to remain in bed
gfrSS*** SCABLATINA. 277
Benriev^lCsy 1,1081.
to-day. There is a little pnffiness aronnd the patellie, with
tenderness upon pressure. To be wrapped in carded wool,
and to take brypnia and rhus alternately.
8rd. The wrists, ankles, and hips are painftiL Slight
feyer, pnlse 100, temperature 101.1 ; urine scanty, free
from albumen, acid reaction and sediment after standing.
Aconite Ix, hryonia Ix.
5th. Perspired freely yesterday, and during the night,
and feels better. Bryonia Ix, rhus Ix.
After this date convalescence slowly advanced without
further drawback, and she went to the country five weeks
after the commencement of her illness.
In the month of January, 1880, I attended a very
instructive case, of a malignant type, in a boy aged twelve,
living in Culcheth Lane, Newton Heath. On New-year's
day he had been to a school tea-party, and the day following
he was languid and complained of his head, and would not
go away from the fire-side. On the third, he vomited
several times, still complained of his head, and his mother
put his feet in hot water and mus.tard before putting him to
hed. During the night, he screamed out several times
'' Oh ! my head," was sick twice, and in the early morning
had a slight convulsion, after which his mother says, '' she
could make no sense of him," so she sent for me.
Jan. 4th. He is lying in a semi-comatose state, from
which he can be aroused for a moment, when he resists
the effort made to awaken him, says '' Don't," turns over,
and is asleep again. The pupils sensitive to light ; bowels
have been freely relieved after a dose of oil ; pulse 125,
temperature 104.1. Ordered cold applications to the head,
the extremities to be kept warm by means of hot flannels.
Oave (icon. A and heU. A every hour. Evening condition
very similar. He has taken his medicine and drank water,
but has scarcely been conscious all day. The glands of
the neck on each side are swollen, and there appeared to
be some difficulty in swallowing, as there was a marked
effort in doing so at least. With some trouble I examined
bis throat, found an efflorescent blush on the palate, the
tonsils inflamed and studded with white follicles ; tempera-
ture 104. Change heU. Ix to cwpri aeet, 1.
5th. Very restless, distressed night, calling out, tossing
about, and seeming to know no one, and to resist all efforts
to pacify him. The body is covered this morning with
278 SCARLATINA. ^S^fSS^^lS!
searlatina rash, the pulse 120, the temperature 103.3, and
. he-eeems more rational.
6th. Is well covered with the rash, especially the handa
and feet, which are swollen, and as red as boiled lobsters.
As the rash has developed, the other symptoms have sub-
sided, and the drowsiness has quite disappeared. The
throat is very sore, and the submaxillary glands are greatly
swollen. Bell. Ix, cupri a<:et. 1, and mere. Inniodide 1, every
two hours in rotation.
7th. A thin acrid discharge from each nostril, with
some excoriation of the alse nasi and upper lip. Put kali
bichrom. 1 in the place of the cupri acet. The case pro-
gressed slowly but favourably to the fifteenth, and desqua-
mation was rapidly progressing. During the night of thai
date he cried out again and again about his head. He
described the pain as most severe over the left eye and in
the temple, and when I pressed the temple and supra*
orbital ridge he cried out that I hurt him. I gave him
coloc. Ix and arsenicum 1, believing the pain to be of a
neuralgic character.
17th. The pain is better, but the whole of the left side
of the face is inflamed with small blisters studding ita
surface. Arsen. 1, rkm Ix. This eruption ran the usual
course of herpes, and dried into a disgusting scab, which
often from irritation discharged blood and serum. Hia
health, however, gradually improved, and about the middle
of the next month he was quite well, with the exception of
a deep red stain, where the herpes had been, which of
course has since passed away. Dr. Hutchinson says, " that
special conditions of the blood may so irritate the roots of
the sensory nerve trunks as to induce those trunks to cause
at the periphery herpetic inflammation ; " and the eruption
in this lad, following severe neuralgic pain in the snpra-
orbital and temporal nerves, is an interesting example of
the coincidence of the one and the other. The neuralgic
pun of herpes-zoster is by far the most distressing fieatuie
of the disease, I have known it. to persist for months
• after the eruption had quite disappeared.
At the latter end of July, 1878, within a fortnight of the
~ death of F. A., whose case is the first one referred to in
this series of cases, A. A., a bright girl in her fifth year,
; was taken ill with scarlet fever. The fever ran very high,
the temperature on the second day reaching a ^»cti(«
: libove/ l€i5 ; the throat ezceedijogly sore, with patches, of
SSSfigS;?5Sr* BCABLATINA. 279
m l__^^M^^M ■ I ' -B-l ■ -I Jl I
tenacious mtiooas clinging to the tonsils, tongue dry and
red with prominent papill®, rash well out over the whole
body, the submaxillary and cervical glands large and tender.
During the following night, there was great wakefulness,
with delirium and fretfulness ; aconite and belladonna, with
an occasional dose of hyoscyamm, helped to soothe, and
daring the following three days the symptoms became con-
siderably ameliorated, the child brightened and took an
interest in passing eyents, asked for picture books, and to
have nursery rhymes repeated to her. She was quite ready
for the food, chiefly milk, beef tea, or chicken soup, which
were given to her. She progressed satisfactorily to the
middle of the second week. She then began to droop, and
an acrid discharge from the nostrils gave her much dis-
comfort by the excoriations which it occasioned.
Aug. 8rd. During the night she has shrieked at times
in the most distressing way, with pain in the left ear, the
glands on that side are enlarging again, and with some
redness ; there is great tenderness when touched, and she
holds her head stifiSy and bent towards the shoulder. Bell*
A and mere, binioduli 1 were given, cotton wool moistened
with laudanum placed in the ear, and a warm linseed
poultice applied over it.
4th. The pain is less, there has been free discharge of
pas from the ear. The child, however, is seriously worse,
quick weakened pulse, the lips dry and cracked, great thirst,
and the glands from the ear to the claviele are very much
swollen. The urine is scanty, and contains albumen.
Temperature, 104.8. Arsen. 1, Jiepar, aulph. 1 gr. i. alter-
nately.
6th. The swelling in the neck has increased, and is
quite even with the lower jaw; it has a peculiar hard,
brawny feel, a deep dusky colour, but there is no fluctua-
tion. It is most difficult to get the child to take nourish-
ment.
6th. A large blister formed under the ear, from which
an ill-smelling, ichorous discharge escaped when opened.
The neck feels softer, and is boggy and oddematous, but I
can make out no fluctuation. The child is much weaker,
takes very little notice of what is done, and makes no
resistance when the nurse is re-applying the poultice, as
she did yesterday. Carbolic acid lotion is used under each
poultice.
280 8CABLATINA. ^"^S^^STT^.
Berifliw, May 2, 18B1.
7th. A large ashy slongh formed on the site of the
blister, with ill-formed ichorous pns welling np npon
pressure. Lower down near the clayicle another bulla has
formed, containing fluid like the one opened yesterday.
The whole side of the neck is gangrenous. Pulse 150 ;
temperature 106.1.
9th. The destructiye sloughiug went on rapidly yester- .
day, the discharge being horribly foetid in spite of charcoal
poultices and carbolic acid lotion, and this morning the
child died suddenly, immediately after the nurse had
dressed the wound, and whilst she was giving some brandy
and water.
Mrs. A., the mother of this child, during the earlier
stages of its illnesSi took sole charge of her, and isolated
herself entirely in a room at the top of the house. While
cleaning about the window, she knocked the skin off the
first phalangeal joint of the second finger^ and of course
treated it as a very trivial accident. The wound began to
suppurate, and became exceedingly painful, and she showed
it to me on the first of August. I advised carbolic acid
lotion to be applied constantly. The next day a blush of
inflammation extended to the knuckle, and she complained
of pain and tenderness on the back of the hand, which was
swollen. A linseed poultice was applied, and hepar, 8ulph.j
and bclL given every hour. She had several rigors during
the night, and complains of great prostration, headache,
and suffering in the hand. A secondary abscess is forming
on the back of the hand, and the lymphatics can be traced
up the forearm as reddened streaks. There is tenderness
upon pressure in the axilla, and the glands are distinctly
felt there. Poulticing and hot fomentations were continued,
and my patient was obliged to keep her bed.
Aug. 4th. Opened the abscess on the back of the hand.
My patient complains of sore throat and great weakness.
Temperature 102.4 ; pulse 108.
5th. The body is well covered with the ordinary scarlet
fever rash, and my patient on the whole appears better, but
is very low and desponding, partly in consequence of the
very critical condition of her child, who is lying in an
adjoining bed. There has been a free discharge from the
hand, and it is not so painful, except when she bends the
finger, which causes agony. I put a small splint on the
palmar surface of the finger and hand> which I thought
would be a help to her, and which gave her much relief.
l^^^^rrS^ OVARIAN TUMOUR. 281
Bevi0W, May t, ISBl.
She went on very satisfactorily until the third week, when
there was some retnm of the fever, and a slight trace of
albnmen in the nrine. Aconite, apis, and terebinth were
given with perfectly satisfactory results, and convalescence
set in afresh, the wound healed on the back of the hand,
and she left her home for the south at the end of the sixth
week of her illness. The disease in this case appears to
have been taken through the wound. Symptoms of blood
poisoning set in before the child's neck suppurated, and
previous to the purulent discharge from its ear, but it is
quite possible some of the mucus from the nose may have
come in contact with the abraded surface on the finger.
Coincident with the redness of the lymphatics, and the
tenderness of the axillary glands, constitutional symptoms,
with sore throat and the subsequent development of the
rash, showed the patient to be suffering from scarlet fever,
and the local mischief then seemed arrested. In ordinary
blood poisoning from a wound, a progressive series of
glandular troubles would have followed. This is an
interesting feature in the case.
These examples are selected from a large number of
perfectly benign cases, which might be treated with soap-
suds and oil, as so enthusiastically extolled by Mrs. Jacob
Bright in the columns of the Times, to show what a terrible
scourge scarlet fever may be, and how essential it is to use
all our efforts to arrest its spread when at any time it
proclaims its presence. At a future date I hope to publish
some cases of scarlet fever dropsy, and other sequelte left
by the disease.
Manchester, April, 1881.
TWO CASES OF OVARIAN TUMOUR.
By J. T. Talbot, M.D.,
Professor of Surgery in the University of Boston, Surgeon
to the Boston Homoeopathic Hospital.
Thb first case. Miss J., aged 41, entered the hospital
July 26th. She first noticed a swelling in the left side
about a year ago. In March last her menses, which had
been quite regular up to that time, ceased. The tumour
rapidly increased in size, was hard, fiim, knobbed, and
immovable, with pain and soreness over the entire surface
of the abdomen. She kept about her work till June 6th,
282 ovAEiAM TUMOUR. »5!aL=?K:r?^
Beriflfv, Maj%, 1881.
since which time she has been obliged to remain in bed.
By the aspirator, abont four ounces of oyarian fluid were
withdrawn, requiring the puncture of several cysts. It
was diagnosed as multilocular ovarian tumour, with exten-
sive adhesions. The case was not deemed a favourable
one for operation, and the patient remained in the hospital
two months under treatment, and though made comfort-
able in many ways, still the tumour increased in size and
impeded the various functions. The urine was scanty,
bowels rarely moved, appetite wanting, the Kmbs became
swollen and hardly movable, and general strength rapidly
diminished. Death was inmiinent, and at the urgent
request of the patient and her friends, the operation was
made on September 25th under carbolic acid spray, and
later, antiseptic dressing. On making the incision along
the median line from umbilicus to near symphysis pubis,
the tumour was found to be quite firmly adherent to the
peritoneum in front and on both sides, requiring much
force to separate it ; also above to the stomach, mesentery,
spleen, and posteriorly to the intestines. It was found to
be impossible to reduce the size much by pxmcturing the
cysts, and it was found necessary to enlarge the incision to
some four inches above the umbilicus* On removing the
tumour from the abdominal cavity, the pedicle was found
to be about six inches in width. This was secured by the
carbolated catgut ligature, and severed by the thermo-
cautery. The bowels were carefully restored to their
place, and the wound brought together by twelve silver
sutures. The tumour weighed something more than
twenty pounds, was multilocular, of the endogenous
variety, every cyst being lined with innumerable smaller
ones, and the contents varying greatly in colour and
density. The incision healed by first intention, and the
patient did remarkably well. The pulse was at its highest
on the third day, at 124, and the temperature 101|. The
urine became free and copious, but heavily laden with
phosphates. The oedema in limbs rapidly diminished;
flatus passed on the third day ; the patient was moved to
another bed on the eighth day ; and the bowels moved on
the tenth day. Her appetite improved and her health was
fully restored.
The second case, Mrs. M., aged 37, was admitted
November 6th for treatment of an abdominal swelling.
Six months previously she had had severe cutting pain in
^^!S^%!S^ BKIEF CLINICAL NOTES. 288
the nmbilical region, and her abdomen soon began to
enlarge^ and measured thirty-five inches aronnd the umbili-
CQB. Fluctuation was perceptible, and forty^five ounces of
OTarian fluid were drawn off by the aspirator. In the
upper part of the swelling in the region of the spleen a
hard tumour was perceptible, quite movable, and of the
size of a child's head. Although the pedicle could not be
detected, a monocystic ovarian tumour was diagnosed and
its removal recommended. The operation was performed
on December 23rd. A linear incision exhibited a tamour
of left ovavy adherent slightly to the peritoneum of left
side. Its contents were easUy evacuated, and a pedicle
was exhibited about five and one half inches in width.
This was secured by carbolised catgut thrust through the
centre, divided, and the two ligatures, linked together like
a chain, passed around the whole, which was thus doubly
secured and reduced to its smallest possible space, not
larger than the little finger. The tumour was then
separated by the thermo-cautery. The wound healed by
first intention, and no untoward symptoms occurred.
The pulse was only for a little time above 72, and the
temperature did not reach 100. The flatulence which
usually follows the operation was relieved, as in the first
case, by carbo veg. A full evacuation occurred on the
twelfth day. The urine was free, but contained succes-
sively large quantities of albumen, phosphates, uric and
hippuric acids, oxalate of lime and sugar, but in two weeks
became perfectly normal. At the end of three weeks the
patient was quite recovered, appetite enormous, and rapidly
gaining strength. — New England Medical Oazette.
BKIEF CLINICAL NOTES ON AILANTHUS,
ASCLEPIAS, AND AMMONITE AGETAS.
By S. H. Blake, Esq.
In a recent article in the Homoeopathic Review, Dr. Dyce
Brown, when discussing the treatment of cerebral hyper-
nemia, refers to ailanthus as suitable to a certain variety of
that pathological condition. He remarks upon the relation
of the medicine to the head symptoms of certain fevers, and
goes on to say that there are not, so far as he is aware, any
DQcorded instances hitherto of the use of aUanthvs in
ceiebral diseases other than those connected with these
284 BBIBF CLINICAL HOTEB. ^''SSS^MS%1m.
fevers. It may, therefore, be interesting to briefly record
three instances in which, since the appearance of his
lecture in the Review^ I hare put this drug to the test with
decided saccess. As soon as the symptomatic relationship
between the action of a dmg and the occurrence of its symp-
toms in a disease or in a pathological condition has been
clearly pointed ont, there is very little difBcolty in render-
ing the information practicaUy nsefol. The thing is, as it
were, no sooner said than done. As Dr. Dyce Brown
suggests, the ailantkus becomes a grand remedy for a
certain form of headache. The first instance I will record
is that of a woman approaching the climacteric, of dark
hair, eyes and complexion sallow, and of bilions tempera-
ment. She is insufficiently supplied with good food, and
is constantly indoors. She has every day dull continuous
frontal headache* Her mental state is depressed. Bryonia
has not done her much good.
On March 29th she had ailanthua glanduloms 1st cent,
ter quo die.
April 5th. The headaches cured; since taking the
medicine very little of the morning headaches ; they were
soon relieved. She feels '' a great deal better, though still
weak." No headache during the past few days. Her only
complaint now is pain in flesh of the breast, just where it
joins the chest under the left axilla. This pain has been
troublesome, and worse when she '* catches cold." Bry. 1,
6 tis. horis.
The following case is that of a man sixty years of age,
who has suflered from a cerebral lesion for several vears.
At times he has had very severe headaches, localised and
Associated with cerebral disease. With the paroxysms of
headache there have also been neuralgic pains in various
parts. At a time when these symptoms had passed away,
he suffered from a troublesome drowsiness throujghout the
day, notwithstanding that he slept well at nights. There
was also a dull and confused state of mind, and marked
mental depression at times. The drowsiness had lasted
for several weeks, but ailanthus cm*ed it in a week, making
the head feel much better at the same time. Once on a
former occasion mezereon </> had been given for severe pain
of the vertex and tenderness of the scalp, and had produced
such decided drowsiness and deep night sleep, that the
patient enquired if he had taken an opiatel Before the
tnezereon had been used he was sleepless with the severe
^^f^STS?^* ^^^^^ CLINICAL NOTES* 285
pain on the left side of the vertex. This symptom is noted
as pathogenetic by Dr. Cooper, in a case treated by him in
the last month's issue of this Review, and his remarks
there coincide with the present observation. The drowsi-
ness of the cerebral hyperaemia in fevers and headaches, and
low delirium for which ailanthus is so useful, bear an
interesting comparison with the dull and drowsy conditions
likewise removed by this medicine in instances such as
those here recorded.
In another instance, a woman of sixty-five had signs of
cardiac degeneration and dilatation, with venous turgescence
of the face (digltulis has done much good for her). She was
also subject to cerebral congestion, with dull headache,
general and occipital. This headache has been repeatedly
relieved by a copious nosebleed during the attack. On one
occasion, nose bleeding occurred and relieved the vertex
headache to a considerable extent, but there was left after-
wards a dull, stupified, and very drowsy state, continuing
even during the day, with dull sub-occipital pain. Ailan-
thus 1st cent, cured this state of the head in twelve hours,
giving very great relief, and making the head feel lighter
and clearer, but it left the occipital pain^ for which gelsem,
Ix was given with success.
Arnica for the headache with nosebleed, which occurred
under very similar conditions on a former occasion had been
employed with success for the person just referred to, when
ailanthus was now used in iJiis latter instance with so
gratifying a result. Subsequently the phosphate of iron waa
given, and this has been followed by the most permanent
relief to both nose-bleeding and cervico-occipital congestion.
Asclepias Syriaca.
An infant, six months old, suffered from dropsical effusion
into the lower extremities, hands and face, and besides
this the child had slight cough and frequent convulsions.
The urine was scanty, of strong smell, and stained the
linen of a dark colour. Asclepias cent, speedily cured the
dropsical symptoms which had lasted for a fortnight, and
at the same time the urine became healthy and the con-
Tulsions with drowsiness disappeared. In this infant the
lower extremities pitted deeply on pressure, the skin was
of a pale transparent and puffy appearance, and the child
somewhat ansBmic. Within twenty-four hours the most
marked amendment took place after this medicine was
286 BRIEF CLIKICAL NOTES. "B^fSHJ^SS!
commenced, so that in about two days the dropsy may be said
to haTe been cared. I haTe not snfficient eyidence to state
the pathological conditions at the root of these symptoms.
In another instance, a girl, aged three years, had had
scarlatina. A few days after the rash and fever had abated
and the patient was thonght to be getting well, extensire
oedema set in affecting the extremities and face (eyelids
very pn%), urine scanty, and it deposits with heat (also
with heat and nitric acid) a thick brownish flock, qnite unlike
the copious whitish coagolnm of albuminuria as it usually
occurs. There was therefore albumen but not a great quantity,
and the tint of it when coagulated was fawn colour. This
child was pale, waxy skinned, and somewhat ansBmic.
The colour of the urine was like that of strong tea. This
has been said by a writer of an account of this medicine to
be one of the indications for api$. Apis, 8 x. was given,
and effected only slight improvement if any at all, as the
dropsy continued, so also did the state of urine. Asclepias
Syriaca speedily restored the case to health. The dropsy
soon dispersed, under its administration amendment set
in at once, and there has been no trouble since. She was
up and about within a week, whereas hitherto she had been
lying in bed in a very drowsy, weak, and low condition, in
fact, I hardly expected her recovery at all. This appearance
of the urine, which resembles a strong infusion of tea, wonld
seem to be found to be present in more than one variety of
pathological condition of the kidney. For one of these
states apis is acknowledged to be a specific medicine.
Ammcn. Acet.
A young man of twenty presented the symptoms of
diabetes, hunger, excessive iliirst, and frequent profose
urination, with debility. Having seen in Allen's work
that ammon. acet, is credited with the symptom ** sugar in
the urine" I ventured on that medicine, a dose of No. 1
three times a-day for a week. I regret not being able to
state whether there was any sugar in the urine, for though
he was requested to return and bring his urine for exami-
nation ; he failed to do so. He has not been seen since
by me, but many weeks after his visit his mother appeared
for treatment for herself, and reported that as the medicine
had cured him or at least as he got quite well soon after
taking it he did not think it needful to report himself again.
It may be of interest to remember in this connection that
Mcmftly^nuBapjtliic NEUBAL- ANALYSIS. 287
,Xay9,lfl81.
certain lesions of tlie pons varolii may produce either
of three nrinal conditions, (a) Polynria with sugar, or (6)
Polyoria alone, or (c) Albuminaria. Thus three different
states are brought as to causation into close proximity in one
locality at the nerre centres. The case referred to, in which
the diabetic symptoms were removed, can of course be taken
only for what it is worth. These cases are but small ones,
but when it is remembered that by the addition of small
thin^, greater ones result there appears to be a considerable
use in not omitting to record them. Moreover, when we
consider the vast number of seemingly trivial cases which go
to make up the mass of work of every day experiences, and
the frequency with which apparently small diseases become
worse and end badly, it is not to be wondered at that the
individual satisfaction of each practitioner often depends
more upon the success with which he encounters the mass
of minor ailments than upon the occasional great hit or
cure of some exceptionally severe disease. Further, as the
leading medical journals have for the most part for a long
number of years disdained to discuss the treatment of slight
and common diseases or refer only briefly to these as
compared with the elaborate dissertations upon extensive
surgical operations and the pathology of medical cases to
the neglect of therapeutics, it does not seem unbecoming
for US to refer to the treatment afresh of the most ordinary
and trivial cases which day by day are treated successfully
with medicines used upon the homoeopathic principle.
Liverpool.
ON NEURAL-ANALYSIS.
By W. Deane Butcher, Esq.
Some months ago, news came from Germany that, at last,
there had been discovered a method of detecting and
comparing the action of the higher attenuations of homceo-
pathic remedies, and that in the most exact manner, by
the aid of machinery.
The news was received with suspicion, and it was thought
by most to be highly improbable or, at best, exaggerated.
At last details of the invention have arrived, which
prove to be of the very deepest interest.
Professor Dr. Gustav Jaeger, of Stuttgart, is not a
homoeopathic practitioner, but merely a man of science, a
professor of zoology, and an able exponent of Uio
Darwinian theory.
288 NEDRAL-ANALYSIS. ^^^SS^fJS?^!
His previous work, Die Entdeckung der Seele, details
those inyestigations on the sense of smell, and the iofluenee
of odoors on the nervous system, which first directed Mb
attention to the critical examination of potentized remedies.
EUs hook on Neural-analysis has heen just published,
and it is from its pages that the following brief account of
his experiments has been extracted.
Neural-analysis is, in short, the determination of what
astronomers call the " personal equation " of an observer,
and the effect on that equation of various remedies when
inhaled.
In his experiments Dr. Jaeger makes use of the Hipps*
chronoscope. This is a very delicate and accurate clock,
the hand of which can be started and arrested by touching
an electric key. This stop-watch or clock has a band
which turns round once in the tenth of a second. Each
division on the dial represents one-thousandth of a second
(one mille-second). The observer touches a key and
starts the hand. The instant he notices the movement of
the hand he releases the key and stops the clock. Suppose
the hand stops at the 86th division on the dial, this tells
him that it has taken him 8 6- thousandths of a second
(i.e., 36 mille-seconds) to notice the fact that the hand
has begun to move and to arrest the motion. 86 mille-
seconds is the measure of his '^personal equation," i.e., it
is a measure of his quickness of perception and motion —
in other words it is the measure of his nervous excitability.
Two processes have gone on during this int-erval of
86 mille-seconds. A wave of sensation has travelled
from the observer's retina to his brain, there to be
translated into a motor impulse. That is the first process.
The second event is the transmission of a motor impulse
along the nerves to the finger, there to be translated into
motion by the muscles. Now, it is found that the first
process may be much abbreviated. By constant repetition
of associated sensations and actions, the acts become
automatic, and thus the time is saved which would be
required to rouse the will and to translate sensation into
voluntary motion. There still, however, remains the
interval during which the wave of excitation is travelling
along the course of the optic nerve, through the brain and
motor nerves. This period differs considerably in different
individuals. It is the measure of this interval which
constitutes the personal equation. Astronomers have
It^SST^^ NEtTRAL-ANALYSIS. 289
B0Ti«w, May 2, 1881.
long known it, and in an observatory each asBistant has
the measurement of his personal equation measured and
noted, in order to afford a necessary correction in his
transit-observations, &c. Professor Jaeger, however, dis-
covered that this equation was not only a matter
of personal idiosyncracy, but was affected by states bf
health and fatigue, and that, moreover, the inhalation of
various drugs had a marked and definite action on it.
To investigate this matter he has spared neither time
nor pains. At the request of Herr Zoppritz, the secretary
of '* The Hahnemannia," he undertook the systematic
proving of the potencies of a certain number of drugs.
His pamphlet of some seventy pages details very fully
this series of experiments which have been carried out by
himself and four of his pupils. It is illustrated by charts
of the osmographs or curves, set out somewhat like a
temperature chart.
The experiments are conducted in the following manner :
Each morning the observer starts and stops his watch
and notices the inter\'al. This he repeats one hundred
times, and carefully notes the mean of his measurements
on a chart.
He then inhales pure alcohol, and notes the measure-
ments made under its influence. The next step is to
repeat the experiment while inhaling the vapour of the
drug under examination. In most cases he is able to
stop his watch quicker while inhaling alcohol, showing
that it increases the nervous excitability.
The drugs hitherto examined are aconite, thuja, natrum
muriaticum, and auriim. We have no space in this paper
to do more than briefly examine one of these provings,
viz., aconite. The mother tincture caused a diminution of
14 p.c. in the nerve-excitability, and a lengthening of the
personal equation or nerve-interval. Thus, while he could
stop the watch ordinarily in, say 100 mille-seconds, it took
him 114 mille-seconds to stop it while he was inhaling the
tincture of aconite 0.
On the other hand, in thd higher potencies aconite in-
creased the nervous excitability, and diminished the nerve-
interval.
Thus the 5th potency increased the excitability +
10 p.c. ; the 10th potency increased it + 40 p.c. ; and the
15th potency + 47 p.c. Above this point the effect of
higher potencies was not so great, for the 20th potency in-
No. 6, Vol 25. u
290 NEUBIL-ANALYBIS. "'SM^TwU-
creased the excitability only + 89 p.o.> and the 80th
potency only + 25 p.c.
The 100th potency was examined on three different
occasions, and from different pharmacies. The result was
an increase of + 28 p.c, + 22 p.c, and + 29 p.c. re-
spectively. The 150th potency showed another maximum^
for it caused an increase of nerve-excitability of over
85 p.c.
There is very much more of interest in the character of
the osmogrammes or curves showing the particular
manner in which the nervous excitability is altered in
each case, but we bavc said enough to point out the vast
importance of the method.
If it be true, that by this means three samples of the
100th potency of a drug such as aconite can be compared
with such definite results, that these effects can be
measured by machinery with such exactness that the
results only differ as in this case is exhibited by the
figures 23*4, 22*3, and 29.8 p.c, it is manifest a new
era has opened for homoeopathic pharmacy.
At all events we may venture to say that henceforth no
proving of a drug will be complete without its effect on
the nervous system being measured quantitatively by this
process of neural-analysis.
Indeed, if it be found that these experiments are
capable of being repeated and extended, and we see no
reason to doubt the care and conscientiousness with which
they have been carried out and described by Dr. Jaeger,
its results can hardly be over-estimated.
For it must not be forgotten, that it was and is the
small dose which is the burning question between the old
and the new school. It is that which bulks largest in
the public mind, when they hear the word homceopathy.
It is this which has destroyed our reputation for veracity
and sanity with our colleagues; and it will be of the
highest importance for us, if we can bring into court the
evidence of experiments such as these, controlled by
machinery and verified by figures; for as the motto on
Dr. Jaeger's pamphlet tells us ** Zahlen beweisen." Proof
lies in numbers.
We hope on a future occasion to pursue this subject.
Reading, April 18th, 1881.
^^SSS!u^ttS^ A CASE OF H«!MOPHILIA. 291
A CASE OP HiEMOPHILIA.
By T. Simpson, M.D.
HAYiNa recently witnessed the disastrous results which.
may follow trifling losses of blood in persons of a hsemorr-
hagic diathesis, I am anxious to report the particulars of a
case, which I think peculiarly instructive to my professional
confreres, illustrating as it does the importance of
ascertaining the existence of this fatal tendency in any who
may propose to submit to an operation which may involve
loss of blood.
My patient was a lady, sdt. 85, with the characteristic
blonde hair, blue eyes, fair skin, with the blood-vessels
shining through, which so often indicate the pre-
disposition.
She had five teeth extracted on March 5th at 8 p.m.
The teeth being brittle it was found necessary to press the
forceps well down into the gum, and they were conse-
sequently much lacerated during the operation.
Th& subsequent oozing of blood was slight, until the
following evening, when it increased, and continued during
the night, so'as to induce faintness.
A medical gentleman who was summoned to her aid
applied liq. ferri pernit freely to the bleeding cavities,
which he afberwards plugged with cotton wool, but to
no purpose, the hemorrhage continuing profuse.
I saw her thirty-six hours after the operation in the
following condition. Face pale and swollen, with diffuse
eochymosis around the mouth and eyes, and on abdomen
and extremities ; pulse 140, almost imperceptible, very
foetid odour from mouth, which was with difficulty opened.
The gums being swollen, spongy, and bleeding. Every
attempt to arrest the haemorrhage by local applications
having failed, and her life appearing to be in jeopardy, I at
once gave phosphorus 12 cent., one drop every quarter of
an hour.
Within one hour signs of reaction set in. The passive
hfemorrhage from gums ceased. The urine which passed
three hours after contained much less blood, and the stool
passed eleven hours after showed a diminution in the
quantity of blood ; twenty-four hours after first dose
of medicine, pulse perceptibly stronger, 124. She con-
tinued to improve so rapidly, that on the fifth day after the
u-2
292 CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS. ^R^fSHj^^H^.
operation all her symptoms indicated a speedy return
to healthy and eight days after the extraction she was
so well as to need no fartiier attendance.
The ahove facts impress me with the paramount im*
portance of trusting to the administration of a single
remedy, which is the true simillimum to every case,
independently of external applications, which in this
instance promised so much and proved so entirely useless.
Waterloo, Liverpool, March 1881.
CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS ON CYCLAMEN
EUROPJEUM*
By Thomas Sheareb, M.D., Baltimobe, MD.
(Bead before the Maiyland HomoBopathic Medical Sodetj.)
The Cyclamen Europaumy or sow-hread^ is a native of the
South of Europe and Tartary, and is cultivated in gardens.
The leaves are radical, angular, somewhat heart-shaped
three inches long, of a deep-green colour above, and a
reddish-purple underneath; flowers drooping, purplish,
sweet-scented. After the flowers have fallen off the
flower-stalks curl spirally, inclosing the germ in the
centre, and lowering it to the earth, repose on the surfiEUse
of the soil till the seeds are ready to escape. The foot,
which is gathered i)i the fall, contains the active principle
and yields a brownish tincture. This drug, says Hempel,
from whose work on Materia Medica the above description
has been derived, is a violent drastic irritant. Bulliard,
in his history of the poisonous herbs of France, states
that the fresh root, in a dose of two drachms, in a decoc-
tion of half a glass of water, caused violent vomiting and
purging in a robust man. In the northern parts of France,
where this plant is abundant, it is employed frequently as
a purge, but is often followed by violent vomiting, some-
times of blood, with cold sweets, singing in the ears,
swimming of the head, and convulsive movements. The
original proving is in the Materia Medica Pura. " The
only constant and remarkable actions of cydamen,*' says
Hughes, ''are upon the head and eyes and upon the
female sexual organs, in this respect very closely re-
sembling putsatiUa.'* But in his Characteristic Materia
* Beprinted from the HahnemanHian Monthly.
tlSSif^i^S^ CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS. 293
Medica he classes cyclamen among the cerebro-spinal
irritants. Through it the female sexual organs and
gastro-intestinal canal are especially affected. On the
head it produces sadden stupefaction, severe vertigo, dull
pressing headache, obstruction of sight, and dilatation of
the pupils. On the generative organs of women it causes
profuse menstruation, blood black and lumpy, and attended
with severe labour-like pains.
Guernsey gives as characteristics : Menorrhagia, with
stupefaction of the whole head and obscuration of sight,
as if a fog were before the eyes. Scanty, painful or sup-
pressed menstruation, with headache, vertigo, swollen
eyelids, pale face, lips, and gums, loss of appetite, no
thirst, and palpitation of the heart. Suppression of the
menses, with melancholy, dizziness and headache, desire
to be alone ; weeping does her good ; swelling of her eye-
lids, lips ptje, violent action of the heart, loss of appetite
and constipation. It is impossible to read these symptoms
without biding struck with the close resemblance of
this remedy to pvisatiUa, of which it is a congener.
Dr. Bidherr, in the North American Journal of Homce-
opathy, vol. X, p. 118, in an article on the therapeutic
properties of cyclamen, says that he found it very effica-
cious with blonde, leucophlegmatic subjects, in whom,
besides retarded, suppressed, or scanty menstruation, or
complete chlorosis, there were disinclination for any kind
of labour, fatigue from slight causes, continued sleepiness,
and chilliness aU over the body, which no amount of
covering would relieve, but with this chilliness a constant
desire for fresh air.
I have thought it well, even at the risk of being tedious,
to point out the close resemblance of these twin reme-
dies, and to remark that in many cases of chlorosis,
characterised by symptoms similar to those we have jast
enumerated, and where pulsatiUa is strongly indicated,
but fails to relieve, as it has often done in my hands,
although given in both high and low dilutions, we will
find the cyclamen a most reliable remedy. I have always
obtained good results from the dOth. Before dismissing
this subject of comparison I would add that although pre-
scribing pulsatiUa every day for the various conditions
and disturbances for which it is recommended, I am com-
pelled to acknowledge that no remedy has given me less
satisfaction, and I shall be happy to hear the opinions and
294 CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS. ^^bSSoS^SmS*
experiences of others in regard to it. In yertigo arising
from gastric distorbance in thin, pale, anemic subjects,
with constipation, with or without menstrual irregularity,
cyclamen claims the yeiy front rank, and may be depended
upon.
In catarrhal headaches I have found it exceedingly effica-
cious, making a decided change also in the character of the
secretion. Several cases, indeed, haye been entirely cured
by it, when giyen persistently in the SOth dilution. But
in these cases I consider the presence of yertigo as an im-
portant indication for the remedy, and neyer prescribe it if
that symptom is absent. A glance at the proving of
cyclamen will show at once its power to irritate the
cerebrum. In Allen^s Materia Medica we find under
Head, — confusion and vertigo, confusion of the head and
obscuration of vision, great confusion of the head in the
evening with vertigo. Vertigo as if she were going down
a mountain ; vertigo : if on standing still he lean against
anything, it seems as if the brain were moving in the
head, or as though he were riding in a wagon with his eyes
closed, etc. We might go on giving page after page to
show its power to produce vertigo, but the above must
suffice.
The following case is interesting as demonstrating the
curative action of cyclamen.
Mr. H., aged twenty-eight, 5 feet 10 inches high, with
fair skin and auburn hair, and weighing 158 pounds, came
to my office, January 8th, 1880, to consult me in refer-
ence to his eyes. He complained of not being able to see
at night, although his sight was perfect during the day.
As soon as it began to grow dark his power of vision dimin-
ished with the light, compelling him to huriy home, and
on more than one occasion, when unavoidably detained,
he experienced great difficulty in finding his way.
Hemeralopia or night-blindness is characterised by a
state of vision in which the patient sees well during the
early part of the day, or when objects are brightly
illuminated, but imperfectly towards night. Dr. Ajogell
remarks that it is a purely frmctional disease of the retina,
in which no changes are observable with the ophthalmoscope.
The distinguishing characteristic of the disease is a torpor
of the retina, so that a bright light is required in order to
stimulate it sufficiently to receive distinct impressions of
objects ; hence by night the patient's sight is unusually
^^J^T^^ CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS, 295
bad. In high grades of the affection, the patient is unable
to distingoish even large objects towards the close of the
day. The time of the day has no significance, as the name
of the affection would indicate ; for by a bright artificial
light he sees as well by night as if no affection of the eye
were present. Hemeralopia is not always equally deyeloped
in both eyes, the patient being able sometimes to discern
objects with one eye and not with the other. The chief
predisposing cause of this affection is an impoverished
state of the blood, in consequence of which the nerre
elements of the retina are insufficiently nourished. The
exciting cause is prolonged exposure to intense and un-
accustomed light. Both of these conditions are present
with our soldiers and sailors in warm latitudes.
We also find that the greatest number of hemeralopes
are individuals whose constitutions have become impaired
by severe illness, or whose general constitution has become
debilitated. It is often met with in conjunction with
malarial fevers, and the ill-fed and badly-housed peasants
in the South of Europe and Central America arc subject
to it. Sailors affected with scurvy are often subjects of
it. The treatment consists in rest, protection of the eyes
from bright light, and such constitutional remedies as are
necessary for the restoration of the general health. My
patient was subjected to a most rigid examination in order
to discover some cause for his troublesome affection. He
had not been exposed to bright light, as it first showed
itself in December ; his general health was perfect, — never
felt better in his life, to use his own language. Several
remedies were prescribed for him without benefit. BeUo'
donna 6, gehem. 80, each prescription lasting two weeks,
as the patient lived some distance in the country and oould
not make it convenient to come offcener. On the fourth
visit he reported himself no better, but if anything worse,
for, in addition to being as blind as a bat at night, he now
complained of distressing vertigo, which came on as soon
as it became dark.
I determined at once to prescribe cyclamen^ feeling sure
that it would remove the giddiness, should it do nothing
more. I gave a two-drachm vial of No. 80 pellets, satu-
rated with the 80th of the remedy, — six pellets to be taken
three times a day, — to report in two weeks. On his next
visit he reported the Vertigo relieved after six doses of the
medicine; and although there was no marked improve-
296 BBViEWB. "Ig^^SfyS!
ment in the night-blindnesB, if there was any change it
was for the better. In the meantime a chronic catarrhal
discharge, which he had had in a mild form, became Teiy
much aggravated, and a copious discharge of thick yellow
mncons flowed from his nose; but, as I had relieyed
similar cases with cyclamen, I did not think it necessaiy
to change ; moreoyer, I rather suspected that he was suffer-
ing from cyclamen catarrh, instead of the bad cold of
which he complained. The medicine was requested to be
taken twice daily until finished. In about four weeks he
reported great improvement in his sight. Another pre-
scription, to be taken once daily, was all that was required,,
for on his next visit he assured me he could see quite aa
well at night as he ever could. I have seen him several
times since, and he continues to have the full use of his.
eyes on all occasions.
The case is an anomalous one, from the entire absence
of any known predisposing or exciting cause, and its entire
relief by cyclamen, a remedy I have never seen recom-
mended for that purpose.
REVIEWS.
Hie Feeding and Management of Children, and the Horns Treat-
ment of their Dieeases. By T. C. Duncan, M.D. Chicago :
Duncan Brothers. 1880.
Tms work does great credit to its publishers. It is well got up,
clearly printed, on good paper, with numerous illustrations, which
are certainly attractive and entertaining, possibly useful, if not
of very high artistic merit. The preface tells us " it is a collection
of facts relating to the study, feeding, and management of
children, woven together by the author as replies to many
questions that occur to mothers in the case of their little ones."
Unfortunately the weaving process is not very successful. The
sturdy and trenchant Americano-English of the warp does not
unite well with a woof, which is decidedly of British origin. Fop
Dr. Ruddock's book on children furnishes not only a motto for
the title page, but also a large proportion of the second part,
which is devoted to the treatment of disease. We need say no
more on this subject, but it is abundantly evident there is no
copyright law in America, and every publisher does that which
is right in his own eyes.
There is much entertaining and useful information in the first
part, as in the chapters describing the points of a thorough-bred
fSS^^rrS^ RBVIEWB. 297
Iteview, Hay S, IbSl.
baby and those of a good nurse. The author divides all babj-
kind into two classes, the acid and the alkaline. This is simple
enough, but embarrassing to the ordinary intelligence of the
" noble mothers *' for whom the work is written. A large stomach
is the cause and the sign of acidity, a large liver on the other
hand causes alkalinity. Further, " alkaiinity is necessary to*
health, while acidity means death.'*
The question of the proper food for Ameacan children is-
treated at great length ; but the dietary would, we fear, hardly
agree with infantile stomachs on this side the Atlantic.
The author's style is generally obscure and involved, but his>
directions are often short, clear, and decisive. *' Feed the child
some. — It gags, — they all do, — stuff it down." Again, words of
wisdom drop from his lips, which do equal honour to his head
and heart. ** Do not wash a thin child, it dissolves out the fat."*
" To some a whisky-sling is a sovereign remedy," though he
regards it as pernicious ; we must, however, take exception to
his opinion that '* a small thin child will cry very much till it
becomes fleshy."
On the whole we see no reason greatly to regret that this work
is " sold only by subscription."
Books on domestic medicine are the cause of much mal-
treatment and mismanagement. Who is responsible for the
hard and^fast rule, copied again and again into manuals of infant,
treatment, that cow's milk should be diluted with an equal bulk
of water. There are numerous other such rules which indirectly
produce a vast amount of suffering. The ideal '* Mother's Yade
Mecum *' is yet to be written. It should be printed and published
and illustrated as this is — but in the author's department we
would suggest a few improvements. It should be a handy dic-
tionary of disease and treatment, to be easily and quickly con-
sulted on an emergency. It should be portable, and therefore
contain the smallest possible amount of paidding. In the clearest
and briefest terms, it should describe the disease, and give
positive instructions for treatment. Its directions for diet and
management should admit of no possibility of misconception, no
loophole for error. The malignant perversity with which
nurses and mothers misread and misunderstand the plainest
directions is wonderful. Lastly, the writer of the model book
should exclude with jealous care all airing of pet theories, and
exercising of hobby horses therein. Who will write us such a
book?
li Cimsumption Contagious ? and can it he TranmutUd by Means
of Food? By Hebbebt C. Clapp, A.M., M.D. Boston:
Clapp & Son. 1881.
That the question which forms the title of this work is an im-
portant one, will be admitted by every physician. It is a ques-
298 BEViEws. "^SS:=S?!^
Beview.MftyS, 1881.
L
tion that has often been asked and often answered both negatiTely
and affirmatively. Dr. Clapp commences his essay with a brief
but exhaustive history of the matter, he shows that up to one
hundred years ago, medical opinion was almost unanimous in
giving an affirmative reply to the question, but that soon after
that date, there came a reaction, the pendulum took a swing to
the other extreme, and the idea of the contagiousness of
phthisis was nearly abandoned. Within the last few years,
however, there has been a revival of the belief, and Dr. Clapp
avows himself an earnest supporter of the theory. In consider-
ing his collection of facts and cases, and his comments upon
them, it must therefore always be borne in mind that they come
from a strong believer, though it will be admitted that there is no
undue use of the facts which support his view of the matter, to
be found in the book. Dr. Clapp arranges his evidence some-
what in this fashion — ^he brings first cases, mostly derived from
French sources, of contagion amongst cattle, showing that a
consumptive cow may so contaminate a stall, that successive
healthy occupants fall victims to the same disease. Next he relates
typical cases of the communicability of consumption in the human
being, and startling enough some of the cases are — so startling,
that it must be rare indeed for a physician to be able to chronicle
that a phthisical man married successively four wives who all
died of phthisis, he afterwards succumbing in his turn. Dr. Clapp
is evidently quite awake to all the objections that may be raised
to this class of evidence, for he meets them in advance, arguing
forcibly that neither heredity, bad hygienic surroundings, etc.,
will explain away his illustrative cases. He then passes on to
consider how the contagium is conveyed, and discusses it under
the three heads of, by food, by inoculation, and by inhalation.
Under the first head he cites experiments made of feeding
healthy animals with tubercular products, with the result of
setting up in them tubercular disease, and he deduces the in-
ference that milk and flesh from a tubercular animal may set up
tubercular disease in the human being using them for food, but
he gives this comfort, thorough cooking has always been found
to completely destroy the poison. The inoculability of tubercle
is next considered, and the experiments and their results given —
as is well known, these results vary, one set of experimenters
found that by inoculating true tubercle, they produced tubercular
deposits in the animals experimented upon. Another set failed
to obtain such results, whilst a third set succeeded in producing
deposits at any rate allied to tubercle by inoculating indifferently
with some foreign matter, such as cuttle fish powder, sand, etc.
Some very interesting experiments are given of animals caused
to inhale vapourised tubercle, with the almost unfailing result of
causing them to become tuberculous ; the evidence under this
iSriSSrlSW^ REVIEWS. 299
head is certainly the most convincing^ as to the mode in which
phthisis is commonicated, if it be contagious at all. There is
one curious and suggestive fact in all the experiments, which is,
that whilst the vegetarian animals nearly without exception con-
tracted the disease, the camivora for the great part escaped.
Probably the decision of the reader on the question will be
materially influenced by his personal experience — ^the question
of heredity — the great prevalence of the disease (itself only a
form of the almost universal scrofula) the length of incubation
claimed for the contagium — the negative evidence of persons
nursing consumptives and not contracting the disease — all open
doors of doubt and leave room for difference of opinion ; but
anyone interested in the matter and who wishes to hear the
evidence on both sides of the question, ' cannot do better than
read this masterly essay of Dr. Glapp.
Inflammation, chiefly of the Middle Ear, and other Diseases of
the Ear. Being a Course of Lectures delivered to the Students
attending the Class of the London School of Hamttopathy
during the Winter Session of 1877-8. Second Edition, with
Additional Cases. By Bobbrt T. Ooopeb, A.B., M.D.,
Trin. Col., Dublin : Physician (Diseases of the Ear) London
Homceopathic Hospital. London : Homoeopathic Publishing
Company. 1880.
So recently as in our number for March, 1879, we gave a some-
what full account of this useful endeavour to point out the
homoeopathic treatment of diseases of the ear. We are glad to
find that it has reached a second edition. The principles
enunciated by Dr. Cooper, are well illustrated by cases both
from private and hospital practice. Tempting as surgical
measures always are in diseases of the ear. Dr. Cooper assures
us that every day's experience serves to convince him *' more and
more that we must look to homoeopathy if we wish to obtain
anything like success in the affections that give rise to chronic
deafiaess and other ear symptoms.*' This we should all a priori
expect at the same time it is gratifying to see a surgeon laying
aside the more facile, more popularly striking use of measures
always more or less defective, and very generally of a temporary
value, for the far more difficult, but at the same time more per-
manently satisfactory plan of finding out and prescribing a
medicine capable in the healthy of producing a similar state of
health.
300 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ''SSSL^SJ^ISI
, ICay 2, Iffil
MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES.
FOURTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE
GOVERNORS AND SUBSCRIBERS OF THE LONDON
SCHOOL OF HOMCEOPATHY.
The annnal meeting of the Governors and Subscribers of the
London School of Homoeopathy, was held on Tuesday, April 12th,
1881, in the lecture room of the London Homoeopathic Hospital.
Rt. Hon. Lord Ebuby, being unable to preside owing to ill-
health, sent a telegram expressing his regret, the Chair was
therefore taken by Major Vaughan Morgan.
Present : Drs. Yeldham, Bates, Bbown, Pope, Hughes,
LucKEY, Matheson, Baykes, Jaoielbki. Messrs. Williahs,
F. RosHEB, GuBNEY, Chambbb, Boodle, Pite, Mrs. Dbew, and
Miss Cabuan^ The notice convening the me«ting was read by
the Secretary, Mr. F. Maycock, the balance sheet was sab-
mitted. The Report was read by the Hon. Sec, Dr. Bates.
The report opened by describing t«he year as haying been one of
quiet and steady progress in forming and consolidating the
foundation upon which a useful and practical Medical School,
where the science and practice of Homoeopathy would continue
to be taught in connection with the London Homoeopathic
Hospital. The necessity of well-educated physicians instructed
in homoeopathy, increasing in proportion to the number of
persons seeking homoeopathic aid, and the consequent im-
portance of increasing the size of the Hospital until it contained
at least 100 to 150 beds, were insisted on, in order that full
clinical instruction may be supplied. To this end an appeal to
the public for je70,000 is advocated.
The financial statement is eminently satisfactory — the
income of the School having increased and the expenses being
diminished.
During the summer session of 1880, seven students were
entered ; during the winter session, eleven.
On Materia Medica and Therapeutics, Dr. Hughes delivered
47 lectures, and Dr. Pope 21, during 1880.
On the Principles and Practice of Medicine, Dr. Dyce-Brown
delivered 70 lectures during the year.
Dr. Dyce-Brown, Dr. Galley Blackley, and Mr. Thorold Wood,
have given clinical instruction in the wards ; and Drs. Brown,
Blackley, Cooper, and Tuckey, and Mr. Thorold Wood, have
done 80 in the out-patient department,
SS^fl^jSIS^ MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. 801
Dr. Hngbes' resignation of the office of Lecturer on Materia
Medica is mentioned with much and deserved regret, and his
offer to deliver a course of lectures during the summer session
on the Institutes of Homoeopathy and General Pharmacody*
namics is. gratefully acknowledged.
Dr. Pope's appointment to the office vacated hy Dr. Hughes
is announced, and its confirmation by the meeting requested.
The Institution of the Hahnemann Lectureship and the
delivery of the first by Dr. Burnett are alluded to, and
appointment of Dr. Hughes to give one in October is
mentioned.
The Prizemen of last year, Dr. Cox and Dr. Shannon are
named.
The report proposes the abolition of the salary attached to
the Curatorship of the Library and Museum and the appoint-
ment of an Honorary Ourator, and in doing so refers to the
completion of both under the care and skilful attention of
Dr. Galley Blackley, who it proposes to ask to take the honorary
post.
After noticing the presentation by the school of copies of
Dr. Hughes work on Pharmacodynamics to the President of the
School and to various Universities and Colleges in the United
States in which homoeopathy is taught, to a correspondence into
which the honorary secretary, at the suggestion of the com-
mittee, entered with the United States Colleges relative to the
recognition of the School lectures as forming a part of the
curriculum for their degrees and the various donations of the
year, the report proceeds to consider the means which seem to
the committee best adapted to continue the work of the School
at the expiration of the five years for which subscriptions to it
were guaranteed.
Its more close connection with the Hospital, is advised and it
is proposed to ask the Board of Management of the Hospital to
tmdertake the general business of the School — and that the funds
of the School shall be vested in trustees, be kept separate from
those of the Hospital, and be used for educational purposes only.
The report of the sub-committee appointed to draw up a scheme
for the future arrangements of the School is added.
In this report it is proposed that after the payment of the
liabilities of the School, the property thereof shoiUd be applied to
the payment of salaries to the clinical lecturer or lecturers, the
rental of the lecture room, and the general expenses of manage-
ment. Subscriptions are to be requested from the present
governors of the School, and the members of the profession
generally. That the Board of Management of the Hospital
be requested to undertake the management of the funds of
30a MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. ^^SSS^fjug^?^
the school, and that trostees of these fands be associated with
the Board in this matter. That the medical goveroors be con-
stituted as at present, and retain their position and privileges
on the same condition as heretofore. That the medical governors
be the electing body of lecturers and officers, and always be con-
sulted on the institution of new lectureships, and all matters
relating to the educational arrangements of the School. That
the systematic lectures on Practical Medicine be extinguished,
and for them clinical lectureships be substituted. It is proposed
that the lectures on Materia* Medica by Dr. Pope be continued,
any salary to be contingent on the increase of the School after
other payments have been met.
The report concludes by advising that a general meeting be
called for the 15th of October, to decide exactly on the form in
which these reforms in the School shall be carried out.
On the motion by Mr. Williams, seconded by Mr. Gubnst
''That the Beport be adopted, printed, and circulated in the
usual way," Dr. Yeldham proposed as an amendment that the
word " receive *' be substituted for " adopted." After some
discussion the amendment not being seconded, the original
motion was carried.
The following motions were carried unanimously : —
Proposed by Dr. Pope, and seconded by Dr. Matheson —
" That the sanction of the meeting be given to the delivery of
a course of lectures at the School of Homoeopathy during the
summer session by Dr. Eichard Hughes at a seJary of £35."
Proposed by Dr. Hughes, seconded by Mr. Kosher —
'* That an appointment of Dr. Pope as lecturer on Materia
Medica and Therapeutics at a salary of £70, be confirmed."
Proposed by Dr. Matheson, and seconded by Dr. Tucket —
** That Dr. Blackley be requested to act as honorary curator
and librarian during the ensuing year."
Proposed by Mr. Williams, and seconded by Mr. Pite —
'' That the officers, staff, committee and council be requested
to continue in office until the 15th of December next."
^* That the rent and the salaries of paid officers cease on the
15th of December next."
*' That the School as at present constituted be wound up on
the 15th December, and that a special meeting be called for that
day for the purpose of reconstituting the School in accordance
with the resolutions determined at the meeting of the Governors
to be held on the 15th of October."
Proposed by Mr. Chambre, and seconded by Dr. Jaqielski —
'' That the sub- committee appointed at the monthly meeting of
the 14ih March be re-appointed for the purpose of drawing up
the new laws bf the School on the basis framed in the report."
^S^^^T^^SS^ KOTABILU. 308
Proposed by Dr. Bbown, seconded by Dr. Pope—
" That ihe sanctioii of the meeting be obtained for the appoint-
ment of the Hahnemann Lecture to be delivered on 6th
October by Dr. Richard Haghest and that a sum of £5 6b, be set
apart as the honorarium for its delivery.*'
Proposed by Dr. Mathebon, seconded by Dr. Brown —
" That Dr. Bayes and Dr. J. C. Burnett be appointed joint
hon. secretaries for the ensuing year.*'
Dr. Batss stated that at the examinations in Materia Medica
and Therapeutics and Practical Medicine, recently held for adju-
dicating the £10 prize, the two competitors, Dr. Moir and Dr.
ThurloWy were returned as having presented papers of equal and
very considerable merit.
The Honorary Secretary then read a resolution which Dr.
Drysdale had forwarded, and requested that it be proposed in his
" That application be made to some one or more of the
licensing bodies for recognition of a lectureship on Materia
Medica, to be offered to Dr. Hughes ; and if obtained, that a sum
of £200 a year for five years be set apart from the funds of the
School towards the cost of the same."
As the resolution did not meet with a seconder, no discussion
ensued.
The proceedings terminated with a vote of thanks to the
Chairman.
NOTABILIA.
MEDICAL CONSULTATIONS.
The Lancet devotes three columns of leading articles to a
discussion of the '^ wide-spread astonishment and unfeigned
regret" with which, as it says, the medical world has received
the new doctrine that a physician may, without dishonouring his
profession, consult with a '* reputed homoeopath " with a view
to saving life. Our contemporary is clearly of opinion that in
such a matter the Jews ought to have no dealings with the
Samaritans, though, perhaps, a Good Samaritan might think
differently. We do not profess to be able to view the question
from the professional stfuidpoint, but the question may as well
be stated, as it is likely to strike a layman, and in this discussion .
of it th^e is no need to refer to particular cases. We must start
with the supposition that the doctor originally attending a given
patient is a duly qualified medical practitioner, whether he be a
'' reputed homoeopath " or not. The question is whether another
doctor, called to consult with such a man, has any duty imposed
on him to go behind or beyond that qualification. Now, if such
a doctor favour the theories of Peter Noakes in one branch of the
304
KOTABILIA.
Uoollily HoBflBOiMaiic
Beriew, Mays. 18B1.
profession, or thinks highly of the practice of Timothj Styles in
another, there is no ohjeetion made to consultation with him.
Bat if the man he reputed to follow the lines of one BAhnemann,
sn exception must, we are told, he made, even thoagfa in the
particular case the treatment of the regular school and the
homoeopathic may have hardly two straws of difference between
them. If the ** etiquette of the profession " — ^ascertained by
what recognised tribunal? — ^is to be empowered to impose
exclusive tests at will, we may expect that alcoholic and non-
alcoholic doctors will soon be expected to have a great gulf fixed
between them ; or that the consulting physician will furnish his
would-be consultant with a paper of questions in medical ortho*
doxy requiring satisfactory answers. Meanwhile, how about the
patient? But it is said that Hahnemann himself preadted
^xclusiveness. What of that ? George Fox wore a suit of
leather, and was a sort of Diogenes ; but your modem Quaker is
a very reasonable being. — Evening Standard, April 11th, 1881.
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION AND
LORD BEACONSFIELD.
It is astonishing how small-minded even the wisest and most
successful professional men can sometimes be I The lay public
have witnessed with mingled feelings of amazement, contempt,
and disgust the paltry squabbles of Sir William Jenner, and
Drs. Quain and Kidd over the treatment of Lord Beaconsfield.
A valuable life is at stake. The life of an ex-Premier of England
trembles in the balance, and, at the wish of the Queen of
England, Dr. Kidd, the ordinary medical attendant of the illus-
trious patient, sends for Sir William Jenner. Sir William
Jenner 's reply is as follows: — "Holding as you and I do dif-
ferent views as to practical treatment, I do not think Lord
Beaconsfield's case could in any way be served by our meeting
in consultation, on the contrary it could not be without risk to
him." While, however, the negotiations were in progress which
led to this inhuman answer from Sir William Jenner, Dr. Qaain
had been communicated with, and, after being assured that the
noble patient was receiving allopathic — not homoeopathic — ^treat-
ment, he consented, after some reluctance, to meet Dr. Eidd and
join in the effort to save Lord Beaeonsfield*s life. But Sir
William Jenner was not satisfied even now. If we have gathered
the threads of the narrative correctly, Sir William actually pro-
ceeded to the length of remonstrating with the President of the
College of Physicians as to the correctness of Dr. Quain*8 con-
duct in consulting with a reputed homoeopath 1 For our part we
can only hope that if medical men are going to make sudb idiots
itSS^^^TS^ NOTABItU. 806
Bavkrv, iUj t, IfiSl.
of themsolTas and negleet the great duty of iheir profe88ion«
whieh iato " leeognise only homaxiity in need of saccoor/* the
sooner we break down their monopoly the better. The pablie
make the laws as regards the statos and rights and priyilegeB of
medieal piaetLtioners, and if we are to be ontraged in this
monstrous fashion by the leaders of the profession we shall
make short work with their privileges. The Qnain-Kidd-Jenner
episode is not caloolated to raise the profession in our eyes. If
Lord Beaconsfield had died daring the delay cassed by the
fighting, his death wonld plainly rest at the door of these small-
minded miserable men. They hare excited aniversal disgnsty
and they haye brought their profession into general contempt. —
BcUh Argus*
MEDICAL OBTHODOXY AND MEDICAL BIGOTRY.
The following leading article appeared in the Liverpool
Mercury of the 21st nit., and is a good iUostration of the feeling
which has been excited in the pablie mind by the painful case to
which it refers : —
" Now that Lord Beaconsfield has passed away, it may not be
without its uses to take up a point which none but the most
violent partisans would have thought it seemly to discuss in the
spirit and tone of the medical press while the patient was as yet
hovering between life and death. We refer to the wretched
squabble raised over what science appears to have pretty clearly
recognised as the sick bed of a dying man, by that section of the
medical profession which delights in calling itself ^ orthodox.'
It must be admitted that the word has been well chosen, for it
expresses with regard to the cure of bodies precisely the same
amount of bigotry and intolerance which it used, uxihappily, to
imply in the cure of souls. It was well known that Lord
Beaconsfield, like many other men of intellect, placed affiance in
what is termed the homoeopathic principle in medicine. It wan
equally well known that Dr. Kidd had long been his trusted
medical attendant. In such a case there was something more
than arrogance — there was insolence — ^in the indecent readiness
with which the ^ orthodox ' mediofd journals assumed that
homoeopathy and quackery were synonymous terms, and pro-
ceeded gravely to discuss the question whether the Queen's
physicians at the Queen's express command, ought or ought not to
meet Dr. Kidd at the bedside of Lord Beaconsfield to take counsel
together about the condition and treatment of the patient. Even
worse was it to find men of the eminence of Sir William Jenner
and Dr. Qoain putting their fellow practitioner — ^the one man
who must have known more about the case than any others-
through a kind of catechism as to his medical h^eis, and apply-
Ko. 6, YoL 35. z
806 MOTABIUA. "Sg^^ygS!
mg their own narrow creed as a test of his filneas — ^not^ be it
observedy to minister to his patient, bat to be associated with
them in consultation. It seems to ns that if any member of this
medical triomYirate had a right to question the others it was Dr.
Eidd himself, and we shall probably be doing no great harm to
the public, who have to depend so mach upon doctors, if we
briefly state why we think so.
<< In the first place, no educated member of the homoeopathic
school talks about there being two diametrically opposite systems
— homoeopathy and allopathy — the one all right and the other all
wrong. On the contrary, the homoeopathic body hold that
bomoeopathy is not co-equal with medicine, but expresses only
the belief in one important principle which will ultimately be
incorporated in general medicine, after which the name wiU no
longer be heard by the outside public— just as in physi-
ology the doctrine of the circulation of blood was for a
generation made the ground of party separation in the pro-
fession, and those who held it were nicknamed ^ cireulatorB,'
which happened also to mean quacks. The proper definition of
homoeopalby is held by its mecQcal adherents to be ^ medicine as
it will be when the homoeopathic principle has been duly in-
vestigated, and received its proper place in practice ' — neither
more nor less. On the other hand, ihe Lancet, and the organs
of the dominant school generally, persist in describing homoeo-
pathy as something totally opposite to ' scientific medicine,*
of which, indeed, tibey claim to possess the monopoly. How,
then, it may be asked, can an allopath — ^for such he is to the
public, whether he likes the name or not, just as much as a
member of the riral school is a homoeopath — ^meet a homoeopatii
in consultation under any conditions whatever? He cannot
03rtainly if the pretensions of the Lancet, as the mouthpiece of
allopathy, are true in fact. That they are not true in fact is just
what the other party assert and claim to be allowed to prove.
But hitherto all opportunity for doing this has been denied to
them. They have been excluded from all the bospitals
and medical societies, from the privilege of writing in
the medical journals, and even from the publication of books
through the medium of the recognised medical publishers, who
are warned that to issue a homoeopathic work will shut them out
from the advantages of reviews, and even from the right to
advertise, in the allopathic organs. Were they not thus
ostracised, the homoeopaths say, they could easily show that
allopathy, so far from constituting all medical science, using this
term inclusively and exclusively, is largely made up of the
results — ^valuable, no doubt — of pure experience, for which no
scientific explanation is yet forthcoming. If so, here is a common
ground on which both parties can meet and so far consult
iSS^^iSTSS* NOTABIMA. 807
JIaview, 3Uy 2, IflBl
together ; for aithoogh the homoeopaihB claim that their piineipld
•^xplaios these facta, their theory pats no obstacle in the way of
both schools using the same remedy in a particular disease — ^as,
for instance, quinine in i^e— just as practical navigators could
ngree in the use of the compass and the quadrant, no matter
what theories of magnetism and astronomy they might severally
hold. Farther than this, the homoBopathic body assert that by
^eir principle they have discovered a large number of new
specifics in disease which the allopaths have quietly taken from
them into their own practice witibout acknowledgment of the
^urce from which they came or explanation of their action.
Here, again, there is ample ground on which practitioners of both
schools can meet even as regards treatment, besides all the large
question of diagnosis and the general management of the case.
" We thus see how, in the case of Lord Beaconsfield, Dr. Quain
eould easily have met Dr» Kidd without any formal profession of
l>elLef in the homoeopathic principle, and could have continued to
•aet with him as long as Dr. Eidd was willing to restrict his treat-
anent to what they both held in common. What ground, indeed,
4sould he have had in refusing to meet a qualified medical man
who did not insist on giving remedies contrary to his advice ?
The case, however, is different with Dr. Eidd, and we confess we
cannot readily understand the position he has taken up. Homceo-
pathy, we are told, is not exclusive, except in the sense that any
remedy chosen by it ought, if better, to supersede others ; and it
most necessarily occur sooner or later in the conduct of any case
At all complicated, that ahomceopath, guided by principle, will
choose a medicine as the best on grounds which his allopathfe
colleague in attendance, although they may agree in a general
way, cannot acknowledge as valid. Moreover, in a case like that
before us, palliatives, such as narcotics and anti-spasmodics,
which the homceopathic school hold to interfere with the ultimate
cure, and therefore use sparingly, were likely to be more freely
resorted to than if an open believer in the homoeopathic theory
had the sole discretion. For these reasons we should think the
homoBopathic body will hardly be satisfied that Lord Beaconsfield
received the entire benefit which their system more folly carried
out would have afforded, and will therefore not approve of the
conduct of Dr. Kidd. At the same time the circumstances were
extremely difficult, and homoeopaths will find it hard to say that
things would not have been worse if he had retired. In their
view, probably, it would have been better — supposing the patient
to have had confidence in Dr. Eidd, and Dr. Eidd confidence in
himself — ^if Dr. Quain, being called in at the request of the highest
personage in the land, had restricted himself to advice on ques«
tions of general management, while to Dr. Eidd was left the
ultimate decision as to the choice of the more truly specific
x-3
808 KOTABILIA. "^fSw^ffiJffSS"
BeTi0W,]fA7S»]fitt.
mediomes. At the same time there can be no doubt that sneh &
proposition would have been seouted by the jonmals who, not-
withstanding the complete submission of the homoBopath, are
BtOlfound condemning Dr. Quainfbr his * unprofessional conduct.' "
ACONITE.
In the United States Medical Investigator for June, Dr. Baxter,
of Cleveland, reports the following interesting case of poisoning
by aconite : —
** A family, previously allopathic in belief and practice, con-
cluded that homoeopathy was the better system, and formally
made the change. They procured a work on homcBopathic
practice calculated for family use, and purchased the medidncB
therein named, but most of them in the form of tinctures instead
of attenuations. Soon after ooe of the children, a liitle girl about
ten years of age, obtained the aconztt bottle, and swallowed
some of its contents. The accident was discovered at once, but
no attention was paid to it, under the impression that all homoeo-
pathic medicines were perfectly harmless. Very soon, however,
the child began to show symptoms of sickness, which rapidly
increased, when the parents became alarmed, and I was called in
liaste to see her. This was about 6 p.m. I found her sitting in a
large arm-chair, with a most anxious expression of countenance,
face flushed, skin hot and dry, pulse 140 beats per minute. She
complained of heat and soreness of the throat, and heat and con-
siderable pain in the stomach. There was also what seemed to
^be an almost constant spasmodic action of the diaphragm and
stomach which was very distressing. It was a most peculiar
symptom— hiccough and apparently an attempt to vomit at the
Bame time. On being asked, she said she felt only a slight
nausea. I could not learn how much of tiie poison had been
swallowed, and the condition of the patient was such as to give
rise to grave fears as to the result. At my request they brought
me what I was assured was pure cider vinegar. I gave the
patient about halfateaspoonfol, undiluted. In about ten minutes
I gave ten drops, and after about twenty minutes I noticed the
frequency of the pulse had perceptibly diminished. To be brief,
in about one hour from the time of the first dose the child was
nearly or quite out of dauger, the pulse had diminished in fre-
quency to about 100 beats per minute, the peculiar spasmodic
action of the stomach had almost entirely ceased, and the patient
said she felt much better. I saw her again, three hours later,
and found her with pulse at about 100, skin moist, face flushed,
and some thirst ; ollierwise feeling pretty comfortable. She was
somewhat restless and feverish through the night, but in the
morning declared she was as well as ever, except a little weak.'
rt
^S^SaSStWSf' HOTABILIA. 809
THE LANCET ON DBS. KIDD AND QUAIN.
The Lancet of the 9th nit. shows that the mind of the editor
has been what a certain class of people term '* exercised " by the
professional hob-nobbing of Dr. Qoain with Dr. Kidd at the death-
bed of Lord Beaconsfield. "The position/* writes the editor,
** taken np by Dr. Qoain in this matter is at once inexplicable
and embarrassing." It is said to be so, on the assumption that
Dr. Kidd is a homcaopathist, and Dr. Qaain an allopathist, on
the hypothesis that Dr. Eidd never prescribes any medicines
under any circumstances which have not a homoeopathic relation
to the disease he undertakes to treat, that Dr. Quain never by
any chance gives any that is not allopathic, and that the
prescription of drugs is the chief end of a consultation at all
times and in all cases. Now Dr. Kidd's book [TJie Laws of
Therapeutics) shows with much plainness that his knowledge of
practical homoeopathy is far from complete, and that in very
many cases he relies for his drug therapeutics upon allopathie
expedients and antipathic palliatives. So far as homoeopathy is
ooncemed, we see no reason why Dr. Quain should not be cflJled
npon to refuse to meet Dr. Sidney Bingerif he is to decline a
consultation with Dr. Eidd. In Dr. Binger's Handbook of
Therapeutics there is at least as much homoeopathy taught as
there is in Dr. Eidd*6 work. The sole difference between i^e two
being that Dr. Eidd ackoowledgea that a certain class of
medicines do hold a homoeopathic relation to the diseases in which
be prescribes them, while Dr. Binger*s homoeopathic recom-
mendations are given as purely empirical, as though they were
the outcome of the scientific uses of his own imagination, and
not at all, as is really the case, as applications of remedies which
have been discovered through the practice of homoeopathy many,
many years ago !
l^irty or forty years since the common practice of medicine
was purely allopathic, or nearly so. It is far otherwise to-day.
Dr Sidney Binger's teachings, the essayists in The PractUianer,
and many a lectore that has appeared in the Lan4:et, the Medical
Times and Gazette, and the British Medical Journal have done
much, very much, towards modifying the drug therapeutics of the
hoar in the direction of homoeopathy. A few years ago a
homoeopathic practitioner took a patient to see a well-known
London specialist. When asked what medicine he was giving,
and replying arMmc, which was dearly indicated as the homoeo-
pathic remedy, the answer was, " You are quite right, only don't
give it in fall doses I " The fact is that there is now so much
rough, empirical homoeopathy practised by medical men who
professedly repudiate homoeopathy, that tiie obstacles to con-
sultation arising from a broad divergency of views as to the uses
310 NOTABILU. "'^rSSLTSSTIS^
vMajSvlflBf.
of drags, which formerly wore well marked enough, are rapidly
diminishing in number.
For a person who, in the words of the Lancet, ** is wiDin^
to practise eitiher of these systems (homoeopathy or allopa11ij7
at the bidding of the sick person who seeks his services,*' we haye^
nothing bat contempt. Bo to do is to convert a profession into a
trade. Bat we can quite well understand a physician believing
that if he could find a remedy homoeopathic to a given condition,
it would be the best his patient could have, and yet, lacking the-
requisite knowledge to find such an one, falling back on soma
allopathic expedient in all honesty and good faith. He does, not
the best that could be done, but, the best that he can do for his
patient.
The solemn *' bunkum/' which the Lancet intermingles with
its lamentation over ''rules of etiquette," '* ruthlessly trans-
gressed,*' is really comical 1 '* It has hitherto," says this medical
dictator — '* It has hitherto been the boa&t of the medical pro-
fession that in the hour of sickness it recognised only humanity
in need of succour." Verily a boast 1 A vain and empty piece
of cant in far too many instances I ''I would not," said a
provincial surgeon to thp late Sir William Forgusson : — " I
would not pass a catheter to relieve retention of urine in the
person of a patient of a homoeopath." *< That," replied Sir
William, " says a good deal for your orthodoxy, but very little
for your humanity." So has it been in hundreds of instances..
However great the emergency, however essential to life the
assistance sought, the orders of the purest trades union of the
day — the British Medical Association — ^are that no homoeopathic
practitioner shall have any aid whatever, whether for the purpose
of relieving anxiety by confirming or correcting diagnosis or
prognosis, or for that of suggesting some indirect remedial
measure. We know full well — and willingly admit — ^that such
cruel and arbitrary rules are not uniformly acted upon, that by
surgeons of good repute they are unrecognised ; but such is the
teaching of men who now declare that '' in the hour of sickness **
the medical profession " recognised only humanity in need of
succour 1" The Cuckoo, a recent addition to the weekly journals^
remarking upon this subject, said on the 8th ult. : —
" We regret very much that rumours shoald be current of tb»
disinclination of distinguished men of medicine to meetDis.
Eidd and Quain in consultation over their distinguished patient
For if it be true that the leading physicians of the day refused
to meet the gentleman abready in attcoidance upon Lord Beacons-
field, because he is, or is reported to be, of homoeopathic
tendencies, we can assure them that they have added another
reproach to the profession.
ss^ayn^!^ hotabilia> sn
" The etiquette which doctors are in the habit of affecting in
matters of consultation are, eyen in cases of private interest,
intolerable; but in such a case as this, where the interests of
the nation are so directly concerned, the contemptible jealousies
of the profession assume the proportions of criminal imbecility."
And we will venture to say that 999 out of every 1,000
thoughtful persons will agree with our contemporary.
IMAGINABY NOTIONS EEGARDING HOMCEOPATHY.
Btttdied misrepresentation of plain and simple facts regarding
bomcBopathy, and of all who acknowledge that they practise
homoeopathically,ha8 ever been the policy of the non-homoeopathic
medical press. Of this we have another iUustration in the
LatKet of the 16th ult.
Professing to reply to the question, '* Why may we not meet
professed homoeopaths in consultation ? " the writer says,
•« We decline to have professional intercourse with professed or
reputed homoeopaths, for one or both of two reasons — either
because they are believers in a method of therapeutics at once
fantastical and absurd, or because they are not believers; in
other words, either because they are true disciples of Hahnemann,
or because they are not. In the one instance the objection is
scientific, in the other it is ethical.*' Homoeopathy he goes on
to observe, is *' Hahnemannism or nothing." Taking his infor-
mation from the now happily defunct Anglo-American
periodical, called Ths Organon, he proceeds to define what he
considers homoeopathy. Disregarding the definition of homoeo-
pathy which would be given by at least 97 per cent, of those who
in this country acknowledge their therapeutic indebtedness to
Hahnemann, the editor defines homoeopathy in a maoner which
would be repudiated by all but some h^-dozen men amongst us.
That we are strictly accurate in our statement, we may refer to an
attempt made some few years ago to get up a list of men pre-
pared to swear in verbis magistri, under the attractive title of
The Legion of Honour, We believe that we are over rather than
understating the result, when we say, that in England only six
or seven names were obtained. In the British Journal of
Homeeopathy, in the HomcBopathic fVorld, and in this EevieWf
homoeopathy has been repeatedly defined during very many
years, but never in the terms used by the editor of the Lancet.
It suits the purpose of the writer to adopt the language of an
insignificant minority, and he employs it. It would be mere
affectation on our part to suppose that the writer did not
know that his description of homoeopathy was unjust and
812 HOTABiLu, ""SS^^SSTSS:
inacenrate ; that he did not know that in making it he mis-
represented the troth about homoBopathy. Nearly twenty yean
ago the following passage appeared in this Review , and inasmuch
as we believe that it expresses with sufficient accnracy the views
of 97 per cent, of those who in this country acknowledge that
homoeopathy is the basis of scientific drug selection, and further,
as the view given is that which has ever been set forth in our
journal, we will repeat it : —
'' True homoeopathy consists simply and solely in the
prescribiog for disease such remedies as are competent to pro-
duce similar disease in a healthy person. This alone is
homoeopathy. To carry out homoeopathy it is obviously neces-
sary that drugs be proved. It is further necessary that the
amount of drug given to cure be less than that given to produce
disease. These are the corollaries of homoeopathy. They aie
inseparable from it ; no one can satisfactorily practise homoeopathy
without seeing their necessity, or availing himself of them. The
psora theory may be trae or fidse ; the dynamisation theory may
be true or false ; the globule may be the best <»r worst medium
for prescribing medicines ; the thirtieth dilution may be the best
or worst dose in all cases, and homoeopathy remain unaffected."
The Lancet describes Hahnemann's dynamisation theory as a
''law," as, indeed, one of the two ''laws*' in which it says
homoeopathy consists! The dynamisation theory — the idea,
that is, that by long-continued friction or shaking the medicinal
power of a substance is developed or increased — was simply an
attempt on Hahnemann's part to explain a fact which, indeed, is
even now inexplicable, but none the less a fact, that veiy
infinitesimal particles of matter do influence the functions of the
body under certain conditions. It is a theory, the troth of which
has been inferred rather than demonstrated ; a theozy which,
however interesting, is of no practical importance whatever.
The physician, tiierefore, who prescribes in disease a medicine
which in a healthy person will produce a similar disturbance of
health, is practising homoeopathy. If, in the endeavour to find
a drog remedy for his patient, he is guided in his choice by the
law of similars, he is to ail intents and purposes ahomoeopathist.
If, at the same time, he is thoroughly conscientious, he will
admit that he is so, will confess the fact before the world ; he
will be impelled to do so in proportion as he feels the value of
this therapeutic principle, and he will be so impelled because of
the misrepresentation from which this doctrine suffers at the
hands of unscropulous opponents.
The Lancet now tells us that such practitioners are not
homoeopathists ! That ''the retention of the name by such an
one is misleading, if not actually unjustifiable, since it has no
logical or scientific significance!" Some years ago, when
timkm,Maf%mu HOTMSOJA. 818
Dr. Wyld eadeaTonred to panmade non-homodopathic pno-
iitionen to display a little more common sense and ordinary
eonrteey in their professional interooorse with homodopathists, he
was told by the Lancet that " nothing less than the anreserved
renmieiation of ail the dogmas of homoeopathy in name and in
deed " conld induce '< legitimate practitioners " so to do.
Now the ** dogmas " of homoeopathy are, as we have shown,
three in nnmber : — (Ist) That for a drug to exert a directly
eu-ative influence over disease it must be capable of producing in
a healthy person a similar condition. (2nd) That in order to
ascertain what influence a drug will have upon the body, it must
be taken, be experimented with, by persons in he^th. And
(8rd) that in disease it must be given in a dose smaller than that
which is necessary to disturb health, and be uncombined with
any other.
These so-called " dogmas " are, we maintain, acted upon every
day by a large and ever-increasing body of physicians who in
print aflect to despise them. A large proportion of the indica-
tions for the uses of drugs given by Dr. Sidney Ringer and
Dr. Charles Phillips in their works on Materia Medica, have been
made known through the practical application of the principle of
similars ; and but for that practical application, never would have
been known. This principle, the Lancet calmly assures its too
confiding readers, has no *< scientific significance !'* That it has
borne considerable practical fruit, he who runs may read I
2nd. The plan adopted by Dr. Sidney Binger, Dr. Mnrrell,
and others, of investigating the actions of drugs is precisely that
first acted on, to any large extent, by Hahnemann.
8rd. In all instances, when Dr. Binger advises the use of a
remedy in a condition, the like of which it will produce in health,
he also advises it to be given in very small doses, and uncombined
with any other, unless it be something practically inert, apparently
to save appearances.
Who, we would like to know, is the honest practitioner — ^he
who, when prescribing a medicine homoeopathic to a given con-
dition, openly avows that he does so ; or he who peers into
homoeopathic Hteratnre, picks thereout certain therapeutic hints,
and publishes them as empirical observations, without any
historical reference, any explanation? Such, however, is the
morality of the medical profession, that the former is ostracised,
while the latter is promoted to honour I
We do not say that homoeopalhy presents us with the only way
of so preseribing drugs as to exert a curative influence, any more
than we should assert that travelling by express train is the only
means of getting firom London to Edinburgh. We know foil
well that Modem Athens may be reached from Modem Babylon
on foot, on horseback, on a bicycle, or by coach. So with disease,
814 NOTABILIA« ''^£
Bevlev.Jiftr 2,1881
antipathic palliatiTes may enable a man to pull throng and shii^
off an illness. But jost as the *' Flying Scotehman " u the
qoiokest, pleasantest, and safest mode of travelling, so is bomoBO*
pathy the quickest, pleasantest and safest mode of curing disease
by drags.
Again, there are cases — few indeed in number — where cure is
out of the question, where the existence of mechanical obstacles
prevents more than temporary relief being given, where antipathic
palliatives can alone be of service to a suSfering person, where the
opiate and the aperient may therefore have been given. These
are, however, the exception, which but prove the rule, that for
curative, as opposed to palUadve, purposes, homoeopathy stands
nnrivaUed. ^* Some diseases are," as Hippocrates said, ** best
treated by similars, and some by contraries,'* but the latter are
few in number, and such as cannot be cured at all.
Such endeavours to misrepresent homoeopathy as that we have
now commented upon, by one who must know, that what he is
pleased to term '' scientific medicine,'' has for a long while been
growing more and more homoeopathic in its drug treatment, is as
cowardly as it is contemptible.
THE PRESENT STATE OF THERAPEUTICS.
The gentleman who composes editorial articles of the Lancet
endeavours, by assuming a tone of deep solemnity, tu pass off
as proverbial truths a great deal of transparent nonsense.
** There is," writes this oracle, '* a system of medicine — ^based
on the knowledge of nature's order in health, the manifestations
of disease, and the ascertained effects of remedies and methods
of treatment — ^which is accepted and practised by the common
consent of the profession." Again : " Hypotheses of oure by
similars and cure by contraries have no place in scientiffe
medicine."
These passages are obviously intended for the consumption of
the uninitiated in the art and mystery of medicine. They might
possibly have been accepted as absolute and unimpeachable truth
some forty years ago. But a good many things have happened
since then ; a good many outspoken troths have been uttered by
medical teachers during the hist quarter of a century ; a con-
siderable amount of daylight has been shed upon the doings of
the apothecary's shop ! ^ys one professor of Materia Medica,
*' drags are but stepping-stones to faith in the weary time."
Writing within the last four years, the editor of the BriiiA
Medical Journal described " the whole domain of therapeutics
as lying <* in a state of chaos."
tf
SSS^SSTS?^ NOTABILIA. 815
lEbBfifBWf Mtcf :tt 1881.
In an address at the opening of the Medieal Session (1876-77)
in Edinburgh, Dr« Matiiiews Dnncan told the students gathered
in that city to learn the art of healing, that the mass ci advice
given oat by professional men is lamentably unscientific.
'* Regarding what remedy in common use," he asked, '' can a
physician give a reason sufficient for all, for the hitk that is in
him? He knows," he continued, *^ tdbjij juvantia and loBdentia
in different cases, with some degree of assurance, but tangible
remedies are the favourities of the physician and of the vulgar.
They are^ for the most part, now as heretofore, mere matters of
fashion. On the principle of doing his best the physician is
bound to use them, but it is almost a humiliating proceeding at
this time of day." Again he exclaims, ^' What a tissue of
superstition is embodied in our dispensatories 1 "
Dr. Andrew Clark, when presiding over the Section of Medi-
cine, at the meeting of the British Medical Association at Cork»
took as one of tluree topics requiring discussion, the present
state of therapeutics. In dealing with this important subject he
spoke as follows : — ^' When, but a little while ago, Sir William
Hamilton asked quite seriously if the practice of medicine had made
asingle step in advance since the time of Hippocrates ; when we hear
that the leaders of medicine, both here and abroad, are sceptical
of the curative influence of drugs upon disease ; and when we
know that experienced practitioners are divided in opinion as to
the effects upon the body of the commonest medicines, we can-
not doubt that this, the highest department of our art, and one
of its chief ends, is in a backward and unsatis&ctoiy condition,
and demands, like the question of education, the serious con-
aderation and action of the profession." And a little later, in
the same address, he said that he knows that experienced
practitioners are divided in opinion as to the effects upon the
body of the commonest medicines.'*
So lately as last October Dr. Donkin told the students at the
Westmins^r Hospital that <* any ostensibly complete system of
therapeutics being even approximately scientific, and by conse-
quence true," was impossible I Again, he said " there is no reason
m nature, nor does science grant us right to claim that we should
look for our diseases to be ' cured ' at alll" And once more he
observes, '' Our treatment as yet must chiefly remain as all the
best treatment has ever been — empirical."
We might go on through many pages giving extracts from the
writings of physicians of eminence, all tending to show that ** the
system of medicine " described by the Lancet is a creation of an
editorial optimist's fancy ! It is like the account of the camel
given by the German professor, drawn from his internal coa-
scioosness 1
316 NOTABILIA. ^'"S^
Bflvfaw, May 2, laSL
Hypotheses of core by simiiars and by contrariest have, from tbe
time of Hippocrates to the present hour, had a place in scieniifie
medicine. Pereira, in his Materia MMea, giyes them foU and
carefnl consideration. The devdopment of the scope presented
for the use of the law of similars as a principle of drag selection,
for which we are indebted to Hahnemann, has given rise to a
greater number of well proved facts of therapeutic valae tiian any
other. Dr. Qoain, when obtaining absolution from the College
of Physicians for assisting Dr. Eidd in endeavouring to save the
life of Lord Beaconsfield, described homoeopathy as a collection
of *' imaginary notions." We have had so much ignorance of
what homoeopathy is, circulated lately through the Times in a
manner so conspicuous as to suggest that the author of them is
a man of some prominence in the medical world, that we can
easily attribute Dr. Quain's definition of homoeopathy to want of
knowledge. The term << imaginary notions '* would indeed apply
with much greater accuracy to the opinions often expressed by
physicians as to the processes of disease. No therapeutic
principle was ever based on a larger or more thoroughly ascer-
tained series of facts than is that of simiUa simUibus curantur*
None has ever had its soundness, its reality sustained by a
greater amount of imimpeachable evidence than it has. lliat
homoeopathy frimishes us with the most scientific basis for drug
selection has been abundantly proven.
MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH FOR HASTINGS.
•
Tbe recent appointment of Mr. £nex Shaw, a member of the
College of Surgeons and a Licentiate of the College of
Physicians, who practises homoeopathically as medical officer of
health for the borough of Hastings, has given rise to no little
stir amongst the allopathic practitioners of that charming health
resort. There were eight or nine candidates, of whom Mr.
Shaw was the youngest. Various reasons, political and re-
taliatory, are alleged as the grounds of the selection. With
these we have no concern. The motives of town councils are
often mysterious, and we have no desire to endeavour to
fathom them. But the allopaths have, in a memorial to the
council, assigned as their reason that *' he is understood to
practise a mode of treatment diametrically opposed to that
pursued by the very large majority of practitioners in the town,
and is thereby precluded (sicj by principle from rendering that
co-operation which is so needful.*' The construction of the
last part of this sentence is too much " mixed,** as the
Americans say, to be intelligible. But the allopaths have,
doubtless unintentionally, given Mr. Shaw an excellent advertise-
S!SS^£?l?1S!f^ NOTABILU. 817
Beriew, May S, 1881.
meni^ and as they have deliberately stated that he *' practises a
mode of treatment diametrically opposed to that parsaed by the
very large nuyority of the practitioners in the town," they have,
imconseionsly, given him as high a character as a probably
sneeessfol heider, as he conld desire I
The idea of a qualified medical man being refosed a civie
medical appointment because he treats disease differently to his
professioiud neighbours is preposterous. The chances are that
no two of them would treat a given form of disease in the same
way ! That faith in homoeopathy, a fedth carried out in daily
practice, is no barrier to the holding of such an appointment,
has been fully demonstrated by Mr. iinley, of Halifax, who has
held the same kind of oflGice in Halifax for nearly ten years, and
at the termination of each third year has been unanimously
reappointed.
LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMCEOPATHY,
52, Great Osicond Stbeet, Busssll Squabs, W.O.
SuMicsB Session, 1881. — ^Dr. D. Dyee Brown will resume his
course of lectures on Principles and Practice of Medicine, com-
mencing on Monday, 2nd May, at 5 p.m. The lectures will be
continued every Monday and Friday. The following subjects
will be treated of : — ^Diseases of the digestive organs, followed
by the specific fevers and diseases of the liver, if there is time.
I^. Richard Hughes will commence his course of '< Lietitutes of
Homoeopathy and General Pharmacodynamics " on Tuesday, May
8rd, at 4 o'clock ; and will continue it on every Tuesday and
Thursday at the same hour, till the end of July. He will begin
by reading Hahnemann's Organon with critical and illustrative
remarks ; and the lecture of May drd will be introductory to the
subject, giving a general account of the work in its several
editions. Any time which will remain when the Organon is
finished will be devoted to the subject of the general principles of
drug-action. Clinical teaching in the hospital will be given — On
Monday at 9 o'clock, and Thursday, at 8 p.m., by Dr. J. G.
Blackley. On Tuesday and Friday, at 2 p.m., by Mr. Thorold
Wood. On Wednesday and Saturday, at 8 p.m., by Dr. D. Dyce
Brown. On Saturday, at 8 p.m., by Dr. R. T. Cooper (on
Diseases of the Ear), and by Dr. C. L. Tuckey. For further
information apply by letter or personally to Dr. Bayes, Hon.
Sec., 21, Henrietta Street, Cavendish Square, between 11 and
1.80 on any day ejccept Saturday or Sunday.
818 C0BKB8P0NDBNCB. ^^bS^^^iS^X
SILICATED CABBON REGISTERED ASCaSNSION
FILTERS.
This new and improved form of filters has been inirodiieed
to public notice by the Silicated Carbon Filter Company, already
weU-known for the excellence of the filters supplied by them.
It has the great advantage over many others of being very easify
cleansed. For the thoroughness of its purifying powers we have
the authority of Professor Corfield, who, at a lecture delivered
at the Parke's Museum of Hygiene the other day, spoke veiy
highly of it.
BRITISH HOMOEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
The next ordinary meeting of this society will be held at the
London Homoeopathic Hospital on Thursday evening, the 5th
instant, when a paper will be read by Dr. Black entitled, '* Sam
deductuyM front a study of Digitalis bearing on the revision of our
Matetia Medica"
CORRESPONDENCE.
PHYSICIANS AND HOMOEOPATHS.—*' EMPIRICISM
IN EXCELSIS.'*
To the Editors of the 'Monthly Homceopathie Beview,
Gentlemen — In the Qlobe of Tuesday (March 19th) we read :—
** It seems that for the asthmatic affection his lordship *' (Lord
Beaconsfield) " derived the greatest comfort from Himrod's
powder, which was recommended to him by Sir Philip Rose. Bie
last inhaled it at one o'clock this morning, and seemed to derive
comfort from it.*'
May I ask the President of the Boyal CoUege of Phy-
sicians, " Who is Himrod ? " " What is his powder ? ** Did
Sir William Jenner, Drs. Quain, Eidd, and Bruce consult with
Sir Philip Bose, who does not, I believe, hold any medical
degree ?
Finally, on what possible ground do the '* regular" faculty
accept the secret remedy of a quack, and sanction its administra-
tion, while they reject with scorn the well-known remedies ot
the British Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia ?
One thing alone appears certain in medical ethics, as sane-
tioned by the College of Physicians, that when all the remedies
in its pharmacopoeia fiedl to relieve a patient, the next resource of
that learned body is to turn to secret, quack remedies, rather
than to those afforded by Hahnemann and his followers. Is not
this ** empiricism in excelsis ?**
iSSiHS^TSS^ C0BBB8P0NDENCB. 319
Homceqpatiiio remedies, we know, have been experimentally
proved (tned) upon healthy individaals before they are adminis-
tered to the sick. The effects they produce, physiologically,
become a guide as to the tracts of the body on which the drugs,
so given, act, and as to the diseases they are likely to cure.
But all this knowledge of Hahnemann and his followers is not
only thrown away on the CoUege of Physicians, but we are told
by Sir William Jenner and other learned pundits that such know-
ledge disqualifies those who have looked into it and believe in it
from so much as touching the hems ofthe garments of*' regular jj
physicians. — ^Yours truly, Wm. Bates.
ARSENIC IN WALL PAPERS, &c.
To the Editors of the Monthly HomoBopcUhic Review.
Gentlemen, — ^I am requested, by the Petition Committee of
the British Homoeopathic Society, to ask you to kindly insert in
your next issne the following appeal to members.
At the monthly meeting of the Society in March, it was
decided to present a petition to Parliament, praying for legis-
lation to protect the public from the danger tiiat exists in the
wide-spread use of arsenic in the manufacture of wall papers
and other articles of domestic use. At the same meeting a
committee was appointed to take steps towards getting up the
petition. At a meetiag of this committee, held April 7th, it was
resolved that the editors of the monthly homoeopathic journals
should be requested to insert an appeal to members of the
Society to forward any evidence they may possess bearing on
the subject.
I therefore beg to ask all members, who have or have had
cases of sickness traceable to this cause under their care, to
kindly forward to me the notes of such at their earliest
convenience.
It is desired that the notes be as full as possible, the tests
used for the discovery of the poison named, or the name of the
analyst given, and all other evidence of its presence and action
stated.
I am. Gentlemen,
Yours obediently,
John H. Clabke, M.D.,
Hon. Sec. to the Conmiittee.
15, St. George*s Terrace, Gloucester Road,
South Kensington, S.W.
April 8th.
320
OOBRE8POHDENT8.
BOTiew.Karliiai.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
^% We eannot undertake to return rejected mantifcrtpts.
Contribaton and Correspondente are reqneated to notioe fhe altezatioii
in the addrefls of one of the Editors of this Review.
Communioationf, fte., have been received from Dr. Batxb, Major
Vauohan Moboah, Gapt. Matcogk (London) ; Br. Bamsbotham (Leeds) ;
Messrs. Thompson ds Cappsb (Liverpool) ; I>r. Sikpbon (Waterloo) ; 1^.
G. Knox Shaw (St. Leonards) ; Dr. Keyillb Wood (London) ; Mr. S. H.
Blakh (Liyerpool) ; Mr. Pinsent (Newton Abbot) ; Mr. PoriAas (Edin-
bmgh).
BOOKS RECEIVED.
A Treatite on Disecues of the Nervout Syttem. By James Boes, MJ).
London : Ghnicfaill A Sons. 1881.
Useful Hints from the Experience of a Lifetime. London : Hamilton,
Adams & Go.
Sammlung tDissenschaftUeher Abhundlungen aus dem GMete der HumiO'
patMe, Yon Dr. Garl Heinigke. Leipsio.
British Journal of Homcscpathjf,
Homaopathic World.
The Students* Journal.
The Chemist and Druggist.
The MoTUhly MagoMvne of Phofmaey.
Report of the Devon and Cornwall Hommopathic Dupeiuary.
Report of the Blackheath Dispensary.
The Hahnemannian Monthly.
The New England Medical Gazette.
American O^erver.
New York Medical Times.
The Clinical Review. St. Louis.
The American Homaopath. Ghioago.
The Medical CaU.
Therapeutic Gazette. Detroit.
L'Art Medicale.
Bulletin de la Soc. Mid. Horn, de France.
BibliotK^ue HomcMpathique.
Revue Homcsopathiqtie Beige.
AUgemeine Homdopaihische Zeitung.
HomJhpathisehe Rundschau.
Rivista Omiopatica.
El Criterio Medico.
Boletino Clinico.
La Reforma Medica. Mezioo.
Liverpool, Hastings, Leeds, Bath, and other Newspapers.
Papers, Dispensary Bqports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. Pops, 21, Henrietta Street, Gavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D. Dtci
Bbown, 29, Seymoar Street, Portman Square, W. Advertisements and
Business Gommunications to be sent to Messrs. E. Gould & Bos,
69, Moorgate Street, E.G.
JSSS^'.T^^rK?^ CONSULTATIONS. 821
Seriew, Juae 1, IdBl.
THE MONTHLY
HOMCEOPATHIC REVIEW-
CONSULTATIONS,
The often debated qaestioiiB of the ntilit; and propriety of
homoBopathio physicians meeting in consultation physicians
who repudiate homoeopathy as a basis of drug selection,
have again been broaght into prominence by the circam-
stances connected with the illness of the late Earl of
Beaconsfield. Articles and letters have appeared in the
medical journals of each week during the last month showing
how widely allopathic practitioners di£fer from one another
on this subject. We think that it is desirable that the
points at issue should be clearly understood and thoroughly
discussed, and therefore propose to devote a brief space to
their consideration here.
The objects with which medical men meet in consultation
are various ; the kind of cases in which a second opinion
is sought differ. In severely acute and dangerous illness,
every aspect of the case comes under review, every means
which the experience and scientific knowledge of each
practitioner suggest as likely to check the progress of
disease must be examined. So far as the basis of diag-
nosis, of prognosis, of diet, and of nursing go, a phjBician
No. 6, Vol. 26. T
322 CONSULTATIONS. ^^£SS??!^
.Bsnrieir. June 1, UBt.
who understandB and Talnes homodopathy will probably
agree in opinion with one who, knowing nothing about it,
utterly disregards it. But the administration of medicines
constitutes a more or less important part of the treatment
of all such cases, and here in all probability the homcBopath
and the non-homoBopath will differ. The former will
propose a small dose of a medicine, the proving of which
shows that its action corresponds somewhat closely to that
of the disease to be treated, and if possible cured. The
latter will perhaps know nothing of the medicine in question,
maybe he has never heard of it before ! He will argue thai
the patient requires stimulating or depressing, that his case
demands wine, iron, or quinine on the one hand, or morphia
or bromide of potassium on the other. The former knows
ftdl well that such medicines can only operate as palliatives,
while he is equally assured that that he proposes is specific
Here, then, is a vital difference of opinion. Up to a given
point both are agreed, beyond this their views are irrecon-
cileable. The good of the patient is the one thing desired
by both. Each is convinced that this end is to be obtained
most completely by measures diametrically opposed to each
other.
It would seem at first sight that any consultation of this
kind would be useless, and from one point of view it
undoubtedly is so. Still we are far from saying that it is
entirely without value, or that it should be resisted
ah initio. We have represented an extreme case as an
illustration, but even here advantages are obtained which
we have no right to deny our patients or their friends
should they desire to avail themselves of them. These
advantages are, definite opinions expressed by two practi-
tioners instead of one, as to the nature of the diseasOy the
probable prospects of the patient, and the general manage-
ment which is desirable. On %ach of these topics the
}Si^J^?rSr COKSPLTATIONS. 328
patient himself, or more especially his friends, will feel
additional comfort and consolation from a double opinion.
When the question of the medicine to be prescribed is
placed before them, it will remain with them to decide as
to which prescription shoold be followed. If that of the
homodopathist, the allopathic physician will retire from all
responsibility for the fatnre management of the case. If,
on the other hand, it is that of the allopath, the homoeo-
pathist should withdraw. No physician can take actual
charge of a case in one portion of the treatment of which
he feels no confidence. That is, we think, perfectly clear,
and will be admitted by all ; but it ought first of all to be
ascertained that a difference does exist on any important
point. This is a question which must be settled by in*
dividual enquiiy at the bedside, and cannot properly be
disposed of by an assumption of difference based upon
general considerations. It cannot be thus dismissed, wo
hcHi, because, in an eyer-increasing proportion of cases,
differences between homoeopathic and other physicians in
drag selection do not exist to any material extent.
Such is especially the case with two classes of physi-
cians— ^those who haye little or no confidence in the
assistance to be deriyed from drugs in the cure of disease,
and those who, like Dr. Sidney Binqeb, prescribe homceo-
pathically as far as they know how to do so.
By the former the question, whether a placebo or a
homoBopatbically indicated medicine is giyen, will not be
regarded as of any importance. When he has carried hiq
points on matters of food and nursing, he has exhausted^
his therapeutics, and may well leaye the remainder to his
homoBopaihic colleague. With the latter the (dances are
that there will be comparatively little difference. Sl^ould
any arise, it ought to be disposed of simply by reference to
the patient and his friends.
824 coKsuLTATioNS. "SSSJ.^rT.^!
Even here, then, in an extreme case, one which presents
the largest possible scope for difference of opinion, there is,
from the purely medical point of view, no show of reason
why a consultation should not take place between an
allopathic and a homoeopathic physician, when such is for
some reasoD or other — and the reasons advanced for such
consultations are numerous and sometimes important —
desirable.
In another class of cases — and a very wide one it is —
the administration of medicines does not come xmder
consideration. The family physician, who is a homoeo-
pathist, has expressed an opinion of more or less gravity
as to the nature of the illness from which his patient
suffers. The patient and his friends have perfect con-
fidence in homoeopathy. They desire that homoeopathic
treatment shall be continued, however serious the malady
may be ; but they naturally vnsh to have the condition re-
examined by some physician who has made for himself a
reputation in the study of similar cases. Here it is
diagnosis and prognosis — questions of pure pathology,
which have to be determined by the light of the fullest
experience that is obtainable. On what possible grounds
can a hospital physician refuse to co-operate with a pro-
fessional brother in such an investigation ?
Again, in cases of a purely surgical character — cases of
fracture, cases where operations are required, and where,
whether for opinion merely or to carry out any operation
that may be deemed necessary, no valid excuse can be
offered by a hospital or consulting surgeon for refusing the
aid, his more extensive experience has rendered valuable to
the patient of a general practitioner, who is a homoeo-
path. It has been suggested that the medicinal after-
treatment of the non-homoeopathic surgeon will differ eo
widely from that of a homoeopath that co-operation is
iSSS^J^rS^ C0NSULTATI0N8, 826
lendered impossible. But how few pure surgeons there
iue who haye the sUghtest regard for drugs as remedial
agents ? Indeed, we might ask whether there are any at
all ! The dressing of wounds, the diet and nursing which
4Sonstitute the treatment of nearly all cases after operation,
is, to say the least of it, in no way interfered with by the
prescriptions of small doses of medicine homoBopathically
indicated by the general condition of a patient, while, on
the other hand, those who haye experience of cases so
treated ayer that they greatly facilitate recovery.
There is then, we conclude, no valid reason why a
consultation should be a priori refused when the friends of
a patient desire it. Its value to the invalid will, of course,
di£fer according to the nature of the case and the object
held in view. If this latter be purely medicinal, it will
often be worthless ; but, at the same time, this even might
quite well be ascertained by personal discussion. While,
if it is a question of diagnosis, of a suitable climate, or of
the need or propriety of an operation, there can and ought
to be no objection on the part of a hospital physician or
surgeon to examine a patient with a homoeopathic practi-
tioner, and to discuss with him the points which must
determine a right decision.
What, then, are the reasons put forth by the leaders of
medical opinion why the non-homoeopathic physician or
surgeon should refuse to visit a patient with a homoeo-
pathist ? Of these we have of late had no lack.
On the 80th of April, the Lancet^ in an article
apparently intended to re-assure the public that trades
unionism had nothing whatever to do with the refusal on
the part of allopathic practitioners to meet homoeopaths,
asserts that for the former to meet the latter is impossible,
because the light in which homoeopaths ''view disease,
and the principles on which they propose to meet it, are
826 CONStJLTATIOHS. "SlSiSlSr^Sil*
Beriew, June 1. 1881.
wholly at yarumce with those which every step forward in
the cognate sciences of pathology or therapy confirms and
demonstrates. There is no common ground for the
homoeopath and the ordinary practitioner, and they
cannot therefore consult; still less can they work to-
gether." Now, we have no hesitation in saying that the
premises on which this conclusion is based are ntterly
erroneous. Between the pathology of the homcDopath
and that of the '^ ordinary practitioner" there is no
difference, and can he none. The principles on which
both sets of practitioners treat disease are, saye in the
matter of drug selection, identical ; while ** ereiy step for-
ward * * * in therapy confirms and demonstrates"
that in drug selection the homceopath is right! That
he is so any careful reader of Bingeb, Phillips, Babtho-
LOW, and Horatio Wood may, as we have pointed out over
and over again, see for himself.
The Lancet concludes the third part of its appeal to the
public by saying that '' no two physicians can, or ought to
pretend to consult together, unless they be agreed." If
this is to become an axiom, all consultations will be im-
practicable ; nay, more, they will be useless and unneces-
sary. Where shall we find two physicians who are agreed
on the treatment of a single disease ? How often do we
not see in the correspondence column of this very Lancet
letters from medical men, asking for hints as to the treat-
ment of some common form of disease replied to by a
number of medical brethren, each of whom recommends a
totally different plan of treatment ? It is not long since
sick headache was the subject of such a correspondence,
and the variety of remedies suggested formed a most
striking satire upon the claims put forth by the Lancet for
the scientific character of therapeutics. Consultations ar»
held for the veiy purpose of discussion, with the object of
i£^j^?rS^ CONSULTATIONS. 327
Befview, June 1, 18B1.
looking at a case from eyeiy point of view ; for examining
Tarions measnres for its relief. In such a discussion,
uniform agreement between two or more medical men, is
improbable, if not impossible. While, out of such discus-
sion something more or less approaching agreement is yeiy
likely to arise.
The Lancety it will be seen, takes very broad ground
indeed. The therapy of the schools is thoroughly scientific,
and homodopathy is the negation of science ! Were the
therapeutics of the schools so scientific as the Lancet would
have us beheve, there would be a great deal more uniformity
amongst its representatiyes than there is. The estimate of
its utility in clinioal medicine would be much higher than
that which has been formed of it by Dr. Andbew Glabk,
Dr. Matthews Duncan, and many others whose scientific
acquirements and extensiye experience entitle their opinions
to feur greater weight than those of a mere newspaper writer,
whose medical experience terminated when his editorial
duties began ! Then, again, the assertion that homoeopathy
is the negation of science is worthless, coming as it does
from a writer who has never gone into detail upon the
question at issue without demonstrating his ignorance
of it.
Dr. MiLNEB FoTHSBonji and Dr. Donkin, two of the
junior Fellows of the College of Physicians, have written
letters on this question to the medical press, which read
yeiy much like bids for the support of the general practi-
tioners in the country districts, one or two of whom have
also addressed the journals in the ignorant, prejudiced, and
violent manner characteristic of such persons.
Dr. FoTHEBGiLL, a somewhat copious writer on thera-
peutics, an author who is only less indebted for his
original (!) observations to homoeopathic physicians than is
Dr. Sidney Bingeb, occupies a colunm of the British
828 CONSULTATIONS. ^SSS[.
Beriev, Jnne 1, 18B1.
Medical Journal with a letter which is a piece of simple
hinster. Not a single reason is alleged why an allopath
should not meet a homoeopath at the hedside of the sick,
save that the rule not to do so is, in Dr. Milner Fotheb-
gill's opinion, *' a just and proper one/' and ^' while it
exists it ought to he obeyed." Dr. Fothergill then pro-
ceeds to rebuke the President of his College for advising
Dr. QuAiN as he did, in a tone and style that in such an
one is sheer impertinence. The only shadow of a reason
Dr. FoTHEBaiLL alleges for an allopath refusing to meet a
homoeopath, is given in the following sentence : —
''If the general practitioner resists the temptation to
add an acquaintance with homoeopathy to his medical
attainments, by which he could acquire a number of
lucrative patients, surely he ought to have the support of
the cbnsultants ! He ought to have some return for his
self-denial on moral grounds."
The support of the consultants indeed ! Why here is a
" consultant " to all appearance bidding for the support of
the general practitioner ! An imperfectly educated man is,
according to Dr. Fothergill, more worthy of being
supported than one who has added to his school knowledge
a familiarity with homoeopathy ! It is the physician who
desires to write himself into consulting practice who alone
may ** add an acquaintance with homoeopathy to his other
attainments.*' But he must do so only stcb-rosd. He may,
however, publish the results of his reading, provided that
they are dressed up in the current phraseology of the
museum and the j^st mortem room, and set out as though
the observations were original ! In the concluding passage
of this letter, he encourages his friends by assuring them
that *'if the profession would only make a bold stand,
the laity would soon see that they must yield."
It^^STS^ CONSULTATIONS, 829
In short, the letter of Dr. Fothbbgill more closely
resembles the cmde and ineonclasiye prodnotion of a
'' cheeky " little boy at a public school than the mature
thoughts of a gentleman of education and a member of a
liberal profession.
Dr. DoNsiNy who by the way has stated that '' no one
has any right to claim that we should look for our diseases
to be ' cured ' at all/' writes yeiy grandly indeed about
'' scientific and honest students of medicine/' — alluding,
we presume, to those who prescribe drugs ostensibly for
the purpose of curing disease, well knowing all the time
that they will have no such influence. Dr. Donxin defines
homoeopathy as a ''plausible and flimsy" system, and
that a '' consultation with a believer therein is a contradic-
tion in terms — a moral and scientific solecism." Denun-
ciation is one of the easiest of things to perpetrate. But
it proves nothing. Dr. Donkin may describe homoBopathy
in any language that may suit his taste or his convenience,
but it will not, however strong, however vulgar, show that
medicines selected homoeopathically are not more likely to
be fruitful of good than are others.
In this, as in Dr. Fotheboill's letter, there is no
reason given why a consultation of the kind denounced
should not be held.
Another correspondent, a Mr. Dayman, of Southampton,
cannot resist the temptation to follow the well-known
example of Dogbebby, and writes as follows : '' Homoeo-
pathy," according to this person, " in the eyes of all good
men and true, is a thing as much outside legitimate
medicine as astrology, alchemy, or the Brunonian system."
A man that can feel no shame in publishing such un-
blushing ignorance as that displayed in this sentence is
unworthy of the notice of intelligent people. It would,
indeed, be long, we should imagine, before any homoeo-
830 , CONSULTATIONS. ^^^fS^^.
pathic physician would desire the assistance of Hi.
Dayman in consultation i He need have no fear of being
seduced into contracting a m^saUiance of this kind, at any
rate.
Dr. Handfield Jones alleges that it is the qnestion of
dose that preyents consultation. He quotes Dr. Hughks'
summary of the pharmaceutic processes of homoeopathy,
and then adds, that as Hahnemann's doses have not
heen abandoned, and such drugs as calcarea carbomaiy
and carbo vegetabUis remain in the Pharmacopceia, *' it is
plain that conference between a homoeopath and a rational
practitioner is impossible." To this it may be replied
that the 80th dilution is not given by any homoeopath is
all cases, and that ccdcarea carbonica, and carbo vegetabOis
are not the only medicines in the Pharmacopoeia. Hence
it might be as well to ascertain by a conference whether
the homoeopath thought the case one in which the SOih
dilution was essential, and either calcarea carbonica^ or
carbo vegetabUis necessary ! Further, Dr. Jones is par*
ticular to state that it is not the law of similars that ke^
the people he describes as ** rational practitioners " apart
from homoeopaths. He does so because he has t<ested this
principle in practice, and many cases illustrating it haTO
been published by him in the medical journals from time
to time. But he has not tried the small dose. Perhaps if
he did, he would not so strongly object to it as he does.
But, that the fact that experience has shown very infini-
tesimal doses to be all sufficient as curatiTO agents in 9ome
cases should preclude all consultations, is too absurd for
discussion, and no reason at all why Dr. Jones' desire that
the existing severance might cease should not be fulfilled.
We have noticed letters from ambitious young physi-
cians, naturally anxious to ingratiate themselyes with the
surgeon-apothecaries of the provinces, and one from a nH>re
S^SSTSSf" CONSULTATIONS. 881
Berievr, June 1, 18B1.
intelligent and thonghtfal man, who desires to see his way
out of a position he clearly feels to be Tintenable. We will
now notice one from a well-known surgeon who has retired
from practice. Mr. Holthouse, who within a few years
was the senior surgeon of the Westminster Hospital, says,
(British Medical Journal, May 7), that since he has had
more leisure to look into many matters, medical and ethical,
he has been enabled to take a more judicial view of men
and things, and to emancipate himself from the thraldom
of ideas and feelings instilled in early life. Among other
matters, homoBopathy has come under review, and the
bearing of medical men who do not beUeve in it towards
those who do, has had his consideration. Having shown
that homoeopaths are not quacks, he proceeds to enquire
why non-homooopaths refuse to meet them in consulta-
tion. That they are neither knaves nor fools, as was
generally believed a few years ago, Mr. Holthouse's
experience has convinced him, for he says, *^ I have lived to
learn that there may be homodopaths who are neither one
nor the other, but as honourable and intelligent as ourselves,
and in one respect, perhaps, more so ; for whereas we
ignore their remedies, they, acting on the principle that
Fas est ab Jioste doceri, adopt ours when their own fail."
He presently adds —
** They do bQlieve, as I think most of us do, though to a more
limited extent, in the doctrine of similia nmilibus ; and they hold
themselves justified, as they have a perfect right to do, in making
use of other remedies than homoeopathic ones, where these fail
to effect their object, and m larger doses than was formerly their
wont. This, so far from being a ground of complaint against
them, redounds to their credit ; and proves that they are not
slavishly following in the footsteps of their master, but claim the
same right to adapt their practice to the altered circumstances
and views which now prevail as we do ourselves. Has our own
832 COK8ULTATIOH8. "^SSSL^STRS?
; June 1, 18B1.
practice undergone no change? Do we still adhere to the
teachings of half a centnrj ago ? If not, are we entitled to pat
on the mantle of infallibility, and to condemn all systems hut
onr own as irrational and unscientific 7
** What is rational medicine ? Is it that which was in yogae
£fly years ago, when onr patients were bled, capped, leeched,
purged, starved ? Or, is it that which succeeded it : when all
these depletive measures were abandoned, and they were gorged
with food, and stimalated with wine, brandy, and rum, till the
outcome of this scientific treatment had culminated in the manu-
facture of a legion of drunkards ? Or, is it that towards which
we are travelling at the present day, when both the former
systems are decried ; and we are taught that safety can only be
secured by abandoning the one and the other, and adopting the
practice of total abstinence from all alcoholic liquors ?
« :ie * 3|e « 4c
** Let US, then, look this matter fairly in the face ; and ask
ourselves whether the time has not arrived when we should
review our position with relation to homoeopathy — whether it
would not be a gain to both parties that some understanding
ishould be come to ; and, while we cannot bat acknowledge that,
Its regards the past, error has been committed on both sides, let
US also admit that good has resulted from the conflict. As
members of a profession which boasts of being liberal, and by
courtesy is styled such, let us prove our title to it by our acts;
And cease to hold that attitude of hostility towards the practi-
tioners of homoeopathy, which, say and think what we will, is
regarded by the outside public as merely a phase of trade-
tmionism.
** The mere fact that homoeopathy still survives, spite of un-
ceasing persecution and ridicule, and not only survives bat
flourishes, is primn. facie evidence of there being something mora
in it than we are aware of, or are willing to admit ; and many
facts, bearing on the doctrine of similars, and on the potency of
minute quantities, have recently been brought to light, which go
J^riS^J^riTl^ CONSULTATIONS. 333
to strengthen rather than weaken the Hahnemannian doctrine.^
I think, then, the time has come when, both on ethical and
scientific grounds, we should take up the question anew ; and,
with all deference, I would submit that, if a homodopath is
properly qualified, and practises his profession honourably and
to the best of his ability, the onus rests with us to show why we
should not meet him in consultation."
The letter of Mr. Holthouse was evoked by one from
Dr. Bbuoe of Dingwall, in which he urges the re-
consideration of the decision of the profession, made some
years ago, to ignore homoeopaths as medical men> and to
enter into no professional communion with them. Dr.
Bbuge takes the opportunity of expressing his regret at
haying taken a part fifteen years ago in ousting a man^
whom he respected, from a hospital appointment^ because
he was a homcBopath. He thinks that he and others, as
he says, wiser than himself, were wrong, and, at any rate,
he is sure that they would not do the same thing again.
In the article from the Lancet, from which we quoted in
the earlier part of this paper, a good deal of soreness
expressed itself at the idea of the refusal by allopaths to
meet homoeopaths in consultation, being regarded by
the public as '^ trades-unionism." In what other light
can it be yiewed ? The essence of trades-unionism is the
restriction of the liberty of an individual in the exercise of
lus calling. In the matter of consultations this re-
striction is distinctly imposed. The question of going to,
or refusing to go to a consultation is not an open one,
not one to be decided by the physician or surgeon
whose opinion or co-operation is requested. It is a hard
* " I refer here to such iacts as the reoommendation of minute doies of
ipeeaeoanha by Dr. Binger to reUere sickness ; very large doses of quinine
by Professor Charoot and 11. Meniere to relieve the giddiness and singing
in the ears in If enitee's disease ; small doses of pilooarpine by Dr. MnzxeU
to eheck the sweatiDg of phthisis.*'
334 CONSULTATIONS. '^S^^T??^.
Bariflw, June 1, ISSl.
and &6t rale imposed by colleges and societies ; one the
infringement of which carries with it certain penalties.
By meeting a homoBopath in consultation, a physician or
surgeon exposes himself to expulsion from certain medical
societies, his fellows are bidden not to meet him, not to call
him in, not to have any sort or kind of professional com-
munion with him. He is to be treated as a Pariah ! If
this be not trades-unionism, we know not what is ! And
to what absurd lengths it may be carried, how it will impair
a man's self-respect, the following illustration will show. A
medical man some years ago made a series of experiments,
in a hospital to which he was at that time attached, which
convinced him that disease was much more readily curable
by homoBopathically indicated remedies than by those he
had been taught to use. He determined to adopt homoao-
pathy into his practice. He then purchased a practice of
which the physician had long been a homoeopath. He
succeeded well. He treated his patients homoBOpathically
with complete satisfaction. This went on for a number of
years ; but as his professional duties increased, the wony
of studying cases, of examining the Materia Medica,
became more and more unendurable. Palliatiyes were much
more easy to find than specifics ! While all the time his
medical neighbours ** cut " him. Then came the question,
was it worth while to endure all this ostracism for the sake
of science, for the purpose of being able to practise homoso-
pathy ? He concluded that it was not ; and informed his
medical brethren that he had given up homoeopathy, and
hoped they would receive him I They did so, and he
became a member of the local medical society — all the while
being carefully watched lest he should be found retracing
his steps or doing anything likely to compromise himself
with homoeopathy ! One morning he received a telegram
from an old friend, asking him to join him in certifying as
llSSSf^SSl!'^ CONSULTATIONS. 885
to the insanity of a patient. He replied in a long letter
that he could not do so ; he had disconnected himself from
homoeopathy; and if he met his old friend at a sick
person's house, Dr. and Mr. would refuse to
meet him in consultation ! The answer to this was that
the refusal was a matter of no consequence, as an allopathic
practitioner had done all that was necessary. Now here
there was no consultation at all — it was a case where the
person to be visited must be seen by two medical men, but
that separately, where one must not be present while the
other is making his examination. But even here, so great
is the terror exercised by the medical trades-union, that
this physician, an ex-homoeopath, was positively afraid to
sign a certificate on which the name of a homoeopath
appeared ; and the cause of his fear was the possibility of
his incurring the displeasure of a physician and surgeon of
more or less local eminence ! Had he been a free agent,
had he been at liberty to perform any professional duty he
might be called to, he would have gone at once, and have
gone with pleasure. But he had renounced the liberty he
once enjoyed, and had yoluntarily donned the shackles of
medical trades-unionism !
It is this ^* hard and fast rule," as Dr. Bbuge terms it,
against which we protest. We can understand a medical
man refusing to meet another medical man on various
grounds, but that he should in any instance be liable to be
called to account before a body of his medical brethren for
having done so is, we assert, a source of scandal which is a
disgrace to the profession of medicine, a condition of things
which deprives it of all title to be described as liberal.
There is then, we hold, no reason why homoeopaths and
allopaths should not meet in consultation. There may be
many cases in which one or other will feel obliged to retire
from the future conduct of the treatment, while there still
836 DTSMENOBRHCEA. "SJ^i.^ZH^
Benew, June 1, IfiBI.
remain many in which they can, with every advantage to
the patient, continue in co-operation.
Further, meeting in consultation is a matter which should
be entirely left to the discretion of the practitioners engaged.
No college or society has any right whatever to impose
barriers to such meetings. It is this drawing of a hard and
fast line, where no public body has any right to draw any
line at all, that has been productive of so much injury to
the reputation of the profession of medicine. This it is
that has divided the profession into practically two bodies.
This it is which has prevented the full development of an
important therapeutic doctrine.
We can only hope that the discussion which has recently
been excited will do somewhat towards drawing these two
bodies more closely together, will show our allopathic
brethren that they have yet to learn what homoeopathy
really means, will convince them that it is a doctrine not
only worthy of discussion, but one urgently calling for
investigation, and that no investigation of it worthy of the
name can be undertaken without the co-operation therein
of those who have for years devoted time and thought to
its study', of those who have risked everything that can
render life worth having in its defence.
ON DYSMENORRHEA.
Being one of a ooone of Lectures on DiBeases of Women, deliTered at the
London School of Homoeopathy.
By D. Dyce Bbown, M.A., M.D.
Gehtlemem, — ^1 now proceed to consider dysmenorrhoBa, or
painful menstruation.
Normally, menstruation is performed without anything
approaching to pain. Usually a slight feeling of dis-
comfort in the pelvic region announces the advent of the
period, but when this amounts to actual pain, then we
have dysmenorrhoea.
^;^rSS2T?SS^ DTSMBNOBBH(BA. 837
Beview, Jane 1, 1881.
This is a subject which has been mach studied and
written about of late years, and our knowledge is much in
advance of what it was thirty or forty years ago. Dys-
menorrhoBa is usually divided into three classes, indicating
the view of the causation of each — (1) neuralgic, (2)
congestive, (8) mechanical dysmenorrhoea. Two other
forms have to be noticed separately, viz., ovarian dys-
menorrhoaa and dysmenorrhcea membranacea.
The immediate cause of dysmenorrhoeal pain is, as
everyone is agreed, retention for a time of the menstrual
blood, which becomes coagulated in the uterus, and as a
consequence causes pain and difficulty in expulsion. The
prevaxiing tendency in the old-school is, keeping this cause
in view prominently, and forgetting in a great measure the
cause of this condition, at least in the way of treatment, to
adopt mechanical measures to dilate the orifice, internal or
external, of the cervix, and so to remove the possibility of
obstruction to the flow of the menstrual fluid.
As a consequence of this tendency, modern authors are
inclined to ignore very much the first form, or neuralgic
dysmenorrhoea. Thus we find Dr. Barnes (Diseases of
Women, p. 213) saying: "Not many years ago, dys-
menorrhcea was almost universally looked upon and
treated as a nervous affection of the uterus itself, or
sympathetic with disorders of distant organs, or the
expression of constitutional debility. And vague ideas
of this kind still prevail largely amongst physicians who
have not directed particular attention to the pathology of the
ovaries and uterus. But in proportion as precise objective
methods of investigation have been applied to the study, it
has been discovered that in most cases the nervous
phenomena are dependent upon distinct morbid conditions
of the uterine tissue, or upon conditions which oppose a
mechanical obstacle to the proper performance of the
uterine functions, or upon disorders of the ovary. If,
therefore, we still retain the term neuralgic dysmenorrhcea,
we must do so on the understanding that, although
expressing really existing disorder, it is a convenient
asylum igruyrantiay under which we may class a number
of cases, the true pathology of which eludes our search.
Extending observation will, however, certainly contract
this asylum more and more, if, indeed, we may not hope
to close it altogether.'*
No. 6, YoL 2$. s
838 DYSMBNORBHfflA. »%SSL^SS??^
Beview, Jiin« 1, 188L
These sentences at first sight look very philosophical
and sensible, hat when we examine the snbject more
closely, we shall find that they are not so — ^that those who
resort to surgical means, in the majority of cases, are
really taking advantage of this '^ asylum igiwraniia^^ and
that it is no more unscientific to acknowledge the full
importance of the neuralgic variety, especially in the
matter of treatment, than it is to acknowledge the existence
and very frequent occurrence of neuralgia elsewhere. I,
myself, believe that the majority of cases we have to treat
are essentially neuralgic.
We shall see, when speaking of the treatment, how use-
less or, at least, weak is the medicinal armamentarixun of
the old-school, and it seems to me that this is one main
reason of the resort, characteristic of the present day in
the old-school, to mechanical and surgical appliances.
I shall be able to show you that our remedies are so valu-
able in the relief of dysmenorrhoeal pain, that recourse
need very seldom be had to mechanical and surgical treat-
ment. I must say that I disagree with Dr. Barnes as to
his desire to put into limbo the neuralgic variety of
dysmenorrhoea. The '* number of cases, the true patho-
logy of which eludes our research," will be much reduced
by the application to the question of the results of thera-
peutical measures.
No one denies that the chief part of the immediate
cause of the pain is the narrow condition of the cervical
passage, but what I contend is, that when this is only
temporary, as it is in many or most cases, produced by a
neuralgic condition, or by congestion, or both, treatment
by dilatation or incision is only a rough and rude form of
treatment. True it is that we fiind cases where there is
unmistakably an abnormally narrow condition of the
cervical passage, and in these cases — some of them at
least — operation is justifiable; but even in these cases,
as I shall afterwards point out, we may do without the use
of this more severe treatment.
First, then, of neuralgic dysmenorrhcea. That such
does exist, and is the cause of a great number of the cases
that come under our notice, is evident from the following
considerations : —
1. Cases occur when there is no evidence of real uterine
congestion between the periods, when all the symptoms in
the case point to the character of the pain as neuralgic.
^^J^nrSf' DYBMENOBBH(EA. 889
We may eyen have such narrowing of the cervical canal as
not to allow the passage of the sound without force, which
of course should never be employed, but where no relief is
experienced from dilatation or incision of the cervix. I
remember one marked case of this kind. The pain was
extremely severe, and though considerably relieved by
internal treatment, it was not so much so as I expected or
desired. The sound would not pass the os internum, and
pressure on it caused pain. In order to satisfy myself
if this narrowing was the real cause of the pain, I
inserted just before the period the smallest sized tangle
tent, which only went through the external os. The effect
of this dilatation of the lower part of the canal was that
the sound passed in with the greatest ease into the uterus.
Menstruation came on next day, but the pain was in no
w^ay relieved, and she had to resort to the old medicines.
Dr. Barnes really admits the same thing, though he is
xmwilling to acknowledge it. On p. 221 he says : " With
fill this variety of illustration concentrated into one focus,
we shall be justified in repeating the proposition with
which we started — namely, the essential cause of dys-
menorrhoea — at least, in the great majority of cases — is
retention of the menstrual secretion. The exceptions in
my experience are very few, and yet among these few
exceptions there are some which I should hesitate to
consign to the neuralgic asylum. We meet with cases
every now and then in which the dysmenorrhoeal symptoms
are very severe, although there is no obvious stenosis. In
Bome of these I have found the uterus small, perhaps
inclined to one side, and set in a short, non-distensible
vagina. Sometimes the os externum is preter-naturally
small, but even after freely dilating this the dysmenorrhoea
persists. The subjects of this kmd of imperfect develop-
ment—for such it is— are commonly of a highly nervous
temperament, acutely sensitive of pain, and it would be
easy to say they suffer from * irritable uterus ' or neuralgic
dysmenorrhoea ; but this refuge seems unsatisfactory. In
some of the subjects the hypersesthetic condition has been
gradually developed, caused by the frequent pain and
imperfectly performed functions, and was not a primary
condition. In some cases I have seen great improvement,
even cure, from the use of Simpsom's intra-uterine galvanic
pessary.** This last remark, I should think, would point
very strongly to the neuralgic view of such cas3S.
z -2
340 DYSMKNOBBHCBA. '^^
B«fl0w, Jidda U UBL
2. Conyerselyy even as Dr. Barnes in the above qaotation
admits, there are. cases where there is no obstmction, and
where the sound passes in easily between the periods, and yet
there is dysmenorrhcea. One of my cases of most sey^^ pain
was of this class, the sound passing into the uterus with
perfect ease, and there being nothing abnormal in the con-
dition of the uterns. as ascertained by physical examination.
8. And yet again, we meet with cases where the sound
will not pass the os internum, and yet there is no dys-
menorrhcBa. I saw a case of this kind not long ago, when
I was consulted in regard to the absence of faimly, and for
which reason I tried to pass the sound. There was no flexion
whatever, but the sound would not pass. I proceeded to
dilate the cervix, getting the tent only in as feu: as the lower
side of the os internum, and it was not until the external
part of the cervix was dilated so much as to admit the first
finger easily, that the internal os dilated so as to admit
the passage of the sound. In this case the lady was the
reverse of '' nervous," and beyond slight uneasiness on the
first day or two of the period, experienced nothing of dys-
menorrhceal pain.
4. Still further, we meet with cases where there is no
evidence of congestion of the uterus between the periods,
where originally there was no dysmenorrhoaal pain, but in
whom after the development of a depressed condition of
nervous system — in short, a hypersBsthetic state, severe
dysmenorrhoDa occurs.
While contending as I have done for the essentially
neuralgic origin of many cases of dysmenorrhoea, I do
not mean to say that th^ pain in sudi cases is nothing
more than a neuralgia, as occurring elsewhere. We
all know how a neuralgia is increased by the addition
of any congestion of tiie part, and that there is a
normal congestion of the uterus at the period is admitted
by all ; and we also know how closely allied neuralgia is to
spasm, and how a muscular contractile organ such as the
uterus, when afiected by neuralgia of its nerves, is liable to
spasm. Here then is, I believe, the real state of matters.
The nervous system as a whole, and the uterine nerves in
particular, being in a hypenesthetic or neuralgic condition,
this state is aggravated by the normal congestion at the
period, and gives rise to spasm of the cervix, and con-
sequent pain, with retention of the first part of the flow.
The uterus becomes distended, the os internum contracts.
aSagyrSnng^ DYBMENOBBH(EA. 841
and the reBult is severe pain. I thus agree with Dr. Barnes
that the immediate cause of the pain is retention of the
seeretion, bat what I contend for is that in many cases, the
cause of this state is essentially neuralgic. It follows from
this view, that such cases are suited for internal treatment,
and not for surgical interference. The right understanding
of the pathology of these cases is very important, as it
shows us what cases are most amenable to drug-treatment.
The patients, then, in whom this form of dysmenorrhoea
appears, are those who would be classed as ^'nervous."
They are excitable, or give way to depression of mind^
alternately with excitement. They are frequently troubled
with neuralgia in the head or in other parts ; they are the
subjects of '" spinal irritation," have pain up and down the
spinal column, with perhaps tenderness in certain spots ;
headaches of the pressive vertical type, and over the eyes,
aching in the eyes, and dilated pupils ; their nights are
sleepless, or restless, with much dreaming. Percussion of
the chest or abdomen may give pain, evidently superficial ;
there is palpitation, ovarian pain, with extreme sensibility
in this region. The infra-mammary pain is often present,
the sacrum aches, the limbs ache on the least exertion, and
put the patient ofif her sleep. On examination of the
vagina, the orifice is unusually sensitive, making the entry
of the finger painful ; there is tenderness on pressure every-
where on the vagina, and on the cervix and body of the uterus,
while on examination with the speculum, nothing abnormal
is visible. The passage in of the sound gives rise to much
pain, though done in the gentlest manner. There is con-
stipation, with pain in defecation, frequent desire for
micturition, poor appetite, gastralgic pain, without any
dyspepsia proper, but with painful sinking or faint sensation
at the epigastrium — ^in fact, a state of general hypersBsthesia
of the nervous system. All of these symptoms are not
always present, but the above is what we find in extreme
cases of this type. While I have so far described the
symptoms of one class of dysmenorrhceal cases, I had
better here, perhaps, describe the symptoms proper to the
dysmenorrhoea, premising that these local symptoms
are very similar in all the three classes — ^the congestive
and mechanical, as well as the neuralgic cases. The chief
difference is that in the two former sets of cases, there is
an absence, at least to a great extent, of the symptoms of
general hypersBsthesia. The pain may begin two or three
842 DYBMMrORBHCBA, ''SS&^SS^mL
days before the appearance of the flow, this being chiefly
in the nenralgic cases. It then consists of more or less
seyere pain in the lower back, the OTarian r^ons, and the
hypogastrinm of an aching, diooting, contractiYe, or down-
bearing pain. On the first day of the flow the pain is-
nsnally at its climax. It is then of a catting, cinmping, or
constrictiTO kind in the abdomen from the nmbilicus down
to the hypogastrinm and all ronnd the pelyis^ followed by,,
or mingled with severe forcing-down pains like those of
labonr, felt in the nterine region, and going through to the
back, and down the thighs. This pain is sometimes so
BOYere, as to cause the patient to roll in agony for hours ;
many women are utterly unable to leave their bed. Vomiting
is very frequent from uterine sympathy, and is sometimes
most painfrdly severe ; the head aches, and there may be
marked men^ excitement, and even delirium. Some
women become nearly or quite infusible from the pain, or
actually fEiint. During this time there may be no appear-
ance externally of any discharge, but it has been secreted
from the uterus, and after a variable number of hours, it
appears, usually clotted. The passage of the clots gives
extreme agony, but after this the spasm yields and the
pain decreases, sometimes leaves entirely, but leaving the
sufferer in a state of prostration. In the neuralgic and
mechanical cases, more or less pain continues during the
entire period.
I reserve speaking of the treatment, till I haye spoken
of the other varieties of dysmenorrhoea, but I may here-
state that it is important to enquire minutely as to the
special site of the severity of the pain ; thus, whether felt
chiefly in the uterine region, in the back, or equally all
round, with the collateral symptoms, in order to select the
right remedy.
Next as to the congestive dysmenorrhoea. This occurs
in women whose cervix is somewhat narrow, and in whom
the normal amount of uterine congestion at the period is
sufiBcient to cause such additional narrowing as to create
an obstacle to the flow, or in cases where there is some
amount of chronic uterine congestion. Such cases are
usually quite eased of the pain as soon as the discharge
escapes from the os externum, the sanguineous excretion
naturally relieving the temporary congestion. The first
part of the discharge is usually clotted, as in the other
SSfS^^^TY'tSS?^ 1>YSMBN0RBH<EA. 348
Btview,Jiiiiel,lS81.
cases, the clot arising from the temporary retention of the
blood in the uterus.
When there is undoubted chronic inflammation of the
uterus the symptoms will be cTident, and will be dis-
cussed afterwards ; but a certain amount of chronic
congestion may arise from the frequently recurring attacks
of dysmenorrhoea, originally nothing more than neuralgic,
or in cases where the normal congestion causes the
narrowing. The freqaent repetition of this disorder is
apt to produce such a state of chronic uterine congestion
as manifests itself by more or less constant sense of
weight in the hypogastrinm, dragging in the loins, aching
in the ovarian regions, with tenderness on pressure,
enlargement of the body of the uterus, as ascertained by
the finger and sound, and leucorrhoea.
Such cases are so often complicated with neuralgia — if
not entirely at first of this character — ^that, although we
may separate them in description, they often run into one
another, and we have a case of mixed type. By no means
unfrequently, a long, lasting dysmenorrhoea deyelopes into
a menorrhagia from the constantly recurring ovarian and
uterine congestion.
Such cases also are quite amenable to drug-treatment,
and require no surgical interference.
Thirdly, the cases of mechanical dysmenorrhoea. Such
undoubtedly do occur. Malformation, as we may consider
this to be, may occur here as elsewhere. The cervical
passage is here abnormally narrow. The narrowing may
exist either at the os externum or internum, and there is a
difference of opinion among gynsecologists as to which is most
frequent. When it is at the external os, the cervix is
usually long and conical, and the orifice may be so small as
not to admit the point of the sound, even of a very small
sized one ; if it is at the interoal os, the same is found
there. In such cases, it stands to reason that this, added
to the normal monthly congestion of the uterine mucous
membrane, will produce extreme pain in the passage ol
the discharge. Another frequent cause of mechanical
dysmenorrhoea is flexion of the neck of the uterus on
the body — either ante- retro- or lateri-flexion, or the
presence of a fibroid tumour or polypus obstructing
the canal.
Mechanical dysmenorrhoea is almost always followed by
sterility, but it by no means follows that this should result
844 DYBMENOBBHCEA, '^g^^TTlg!
when the dysmenorrhoea arises from the other causes. I
have seen cases of the most extremely severe dysmenor-
rhoBa followed by pregnancy immediately after marriage.
Nor does it always follow that sterility results from con-
genital narrowing. I knew a case where the os externum
was so narrow as barely to admit the point of the sound,
where dilatation by tents had improved the dysmenorrhcea
for a time, but where the lady had relapsed into the former
state of contraction. She was on the point of coming up
to London to have incision performed, when pregnancy
occurred and rendered it unnecessary.
The treatment of cases arising from flexion of the neck
of the uterus on the body, or of fibroid tumours or polypi,
will be the treatment of those affections themselves, which
I here pass by.
As to the surgical treatment of mechanical dysmen-
orrhcea by dilatation or incision, as this is more properly
surgical, and has nothing to do with homoeopathy, I forbear
for want of time explaining it. But even in cases which
may justify such means we may get so much marked relief
by internal medicine, as I shall afterwards mention
when speaking of the remedies, as to render operation
unnecessary.
I now come to speak of the treatment of dysmenorrhcBa.
This resolves itself into (1st) that proper at the time of <he
pain, to relieve it, and (2nd) that during the interval.
First, as to the means useful to relieve the pain at the
time. Before going over our mode of treatment, it may
be interesting to see what aUopathy can offer. I quote
from Dr. Barnes one of the most recent writers : —
*' Happily the recent appUcation of means of exploring
the state of the organs primarily affected has, by enabling
us to analyse the cases, shown that the majority at least
are dependent upon physical causes which admit of remedy.
The treatment has become far more successful than was
contemplated as possible by Gooch and Ferguson. The
first condition in which we are likely to be consulted is
during the attack. We are called upon, as our first duty,
to relieve pain ; and during the menstrual flow our hands
are commonly tied. We are driven to a trial of sedatives
and narcotics. Where the agony is so intense as to induce
delirium, it is justifiable to induce anaesthesia by chloroform
or chloral, but the frequent recourse to these agents is apt
to entail a terrible penalty. The patient who has once or
JSriSyjSnB?*' DT8MEK0BBH(BA. 846
oftener thus drowned her sufferings, is little ahle to resist
the imperious craving to throw herself into the same
treacherous obliyion on every return of pain. She soon
falls into the habit of exaggerating her suffering so as to
impose upon others, as well as herself, the necessity of
getting relief, even momentary, at any cost. To say
nothing of the fatal accidents which have occurred from the
use or abuse of chloroform or chloral, even when skilfully
administered, experience shows, it is said, that the repeated
or habitual use of these agents is liable to induce epilepsy
and mental prostration of a kind to justify apprehension of
lapsing into dementia. There is no principle of conduct
more imperative than this : so to direct our treatment as to
preserve and encourage to the utmost the mental and moral
integrity of the patient. When once we have lost the aid
of her own will, when she has lost the precious gift of self-
control, our task is a sad one. We are almost driven into
becoming quasi-accompUces in a course that almost infallibly
ends in moral annihilation, compared with which the origi-
nal malady, still subsisting, sinks into insignificance. One
of the best temporary sedatives is Hofiman's anodyne, the
spiritus satheris sulphuricus compositus, which may be
given in half-drachm doses. To this may be added ten or
fifteen drops of liquor opii sedativus, and both act better if
given with liquor ammonisB acetatis. Indian hemp in
half-grain or grain doses is often valuable ; it may be given
alone or combined in pills with lupulin, or five grains of
Dover's powder. Where there is a distinct hysterical
character, musk, camphor, and assafcetida are often usefuL
Allied to sedatives la their effects are the bromides of
potassium and ammonium. One or other of these may be
given in scruple or even half-drachm doses, repeated every
four or six hours. Bromine seems to possess a specific
power in subduing ovarian excitation. If sedatives cannot
be taken by the mouth, we may resort to subcutaneous
injection of one-eighth or one-sixth of a grain of acetate of
morphia ; or half a drachm of laudanum may be thrown
into the rectum ; or medicated pessaries containing opiam
or belladonna may be placed la the rectum or vagina. The
local treatment in the purely neuralgic affection is restricted
to the use of hot fomentations or cataplasms to the abdo-
men, foot baths, and other external applications. Simpson
recommended the injection of chloroform vapour or carbonic
acid gas into the vagina, or the application of a small bit
346 SKIN MSEA8B. "SSlL^irr?^
Beriew, June 1, tSBi.
of lint soaked in chloroform and covered with a watch-glass
over each groin. This produces a small blister. The diet
should be simple, and the use of stimulants strictly regu-
lated. Moral treatment is of great importance. During
the intervals great care should be taken to cultivate habits
of industry. Occupation, physical and mental, is the great
panacea. ' Something to do ! ' is the great female cry. In
no case is it more urgent than here. If these and other
similar means, as well as time, fail to bring a relief, a
physical examination becomes necessary, and then we shall
probably discover some condition of the pelvic organs, on
the successful management of which the hope of curing the
dysmenorrhoea will rest."
{To be continued,)
THREE CASES OF SKIN DISEASE. -
By Edward Blaee, M.D., &c.
Contagious Impetigo.
No. 1. Master W. H. B., aet. 8. Lymphatic tempera-
ment. Twelve months ago had a email scab in head,
it gradually enlarged and thickened ; now there is on the
vertex a coherent mass of circular form four inches in
diameter, consisting of scabs and matted hair.
I had this all poulticed off and the subjacent surface
painted with acid carbolic 3 j, aqute ferventis S iii.
This rapidly healed the large denuded surface with slight
injury to the scalp.
Prescribed internally PiL oL crotonis 6x, 1 n. mqv£»
All new spots to be well fomented, scraped and dressed
with the following unguent : —
Liq. carbonis deterg, 3 j, ung, petrolei (vaseline) 5j.
Sept. 11. The eruption is nearly gone. There is a
good deal of eneuresis, and the urine has a disagreeable
odour.
PiL didcamara 1, one to be taken one hour before each
meal.
To have a teaspoon of cod oil at bed-time.
Nov. 12. Face and head nearly free from rash. No
fresh symptom; the eneuresis is better; the bowels are now
confined.
PiL mere, soL 6, 1 n. mqite.
SSSSI'j^frS?*' SKIN DISEASE. 847
, June 1, 18B1.
Nov. 27. Much better, only one small point of erap-
tion on chest. He has a cough with wheezing.
Beturn to dtUc. 1. Continue cod oil.
Dec. 11. Better, tiny spot on chin ; gets three stools &
week.
Pil. oL croton. 12, 1 n. mqu^.
Dec. 25. Quite well.
Comments : This was an aggravated and obstinate caso
of a loathsome disease. The carbolic dressing removed,
the disease, but had no power to prevent recurrence. This
could only be effected by two means, viz. : building up the
constitution by means of milk, cod oil, &c, and by specific
medication.
I have found croton oil of great service in impetigo with
intestinal disturbances, and dulcamara is invaluable in
impetigo, and in eczema capitis when they arise in pale-
faced, red-haired children with feeble glandular system.
Psoriasis.
No. 2. Mrs. C. F. P., set. 28 ; fair complexion, light
hair; resides on a clay soil. The only disease she can
recall having had in childhood is scarlatina followed, she
thinks, by dropsy. As a girl she was well and strong, the
only illness being an occasional quinsy; she does not
remember being laid up since childhood. Her hair has
been falling for the past twelve months. Has recently felt
a pain in the right side in the corner of the lateral
cutaneous branch of the last dorsal, she attributes this
pain to having taken cold. As a rule she enjoys equal
spirits, but has occasional fits of depression. She is prona
to dream, and is readily kept awake by worry. Gets
fluttering of the heart after excitement as well as after
exertion. Just before the catamenia she is subject to>
temporal headache (clavus), much increased by excitement*
The period is natural, a little pain perhaps the first day,
but no bearing down and no perceptible leucorrhoea, thougk
she feels local itching sometimes. Has two large sebaceoua
follicles on face. No tinnitus ; no toothache ; she eats,
slowly and can masticate well; the tongue is natural;,
no flatulence; no nausea; the bowels are regular;
no pile, and no kind of worm. No cough, nor
expectoration. Arms and hands (chiefly left) numb or
cramped during the night only. When fifteen years
and six months old, she observed some white scales
848 SKIN DISEASE. ^^SSX^^SSHImS!
appearing on the elbows and knees. She was taken to
the late Mr. S., who soon snceeded in removing the raab.
At the age of twenty-two, however, six years ago, it recnrred
in the same sites, and she consulted Mr. E. W., a well-
known cutaneous specialist. This time the eruption hung
about a much longer time ; in fact it was nearly half a year
before it took its departure, and the remedies administered
aflfected her health very injuriously. With regard to the
remedies employed by that distinguished dermatologist, the
lady says : " I cannot send you the prescriptions, having
either mislaid or destroyed them. I remember only that
arsenic largely figured in them. He increased the quantity
of the drug from time to time, whilst I was under his care.
I had to use it carefully, measuring every drop, and, if I
remember aright, took the mixture after each meal. I
fancy I remained under Mr. W. about three months. As
regards the symptoms felt when taking Mr. W.'s medi-
cines, at first with the smaJl doses of arsenic, I felt no ill
efiects at all, but as the quantity was increased, after
several visits I began to lose appetite and colowr, and at
last, when the spots had almost disappeared (it was a very
bad attack, much worse than the present one), I was vio-
lently sick for some days, bringing up all my food, wMch
had a marked green tint (arsenical gastritis). I grew quite
thin, the ears especially looking drawn, and the eyes glassy.
My friends now insisted on my leaving oflf the medicine. I
did not go to Mr. W. again, for the spots had entirely
disappeared."
This lady has given us a very graphic picture of
arsenical poisoning. It is difficult to imagine a man in
his senses pushing a deadly drug to such extremes. He
certainly cured the rash, but at what a terrible cost ! Six
years have passed away, and the lady writes now : "I
have never repeated the prescriptions, scarcely indeed
having occasion, for the spots have only made their
appearance (until this year) in the spring or in the
autumn, and then in so slight a degree that medical advice
did not seem needful; but, since taking the arsenic, I
have found my nerves weaker than they had ever been
before — ^I mean in the way of starting violently at loud or
unexpected sounds, with headache and throbbing temples
as an immediate sequence."
She maiTied at the age of 27, but has not conceived.
Twelve months after her marriage, which took place in
ISaSS^^STSS!' BMW DISBASB. 849
Febmary, 1880, the nsh again appeared, this time on
shonlders and thighs as well as on elbows and knees. She
has consulted no physician till she sought my aid on
8th March, 1881.
Now the elbows, the shoulders, the neck, and the knees
are covered with spots of psoriasis, varying in size from a
fiye-shilling piece down to a pea.
I swabbed the follicular throat with dcid carboU
1.80. I pierced the disfiguring sebaceous facial follicles
with a heated Paquelin's point, and gave the following
prescription : —
PU, gylphuris (p. One to be taken dry one hour before
each meal.
Liq, carb. deterg. iii., ung. petrolei. (VaaeUneJ ly,
to be applied freely to the spots after a hot bath each
night.
Pil. ignaUa 1 to be taken frequently when a prsB-
menstrual attack of clavus is dreaded.
I directed a highly nutritious dietary to be observed,
including a cup of hot milk between meals, also a teaspoon
of *' perfected " cod oil at bed-time.
March 16. No change in the appearance of the rash,
but has felt less itching during the day ; bowels regular ;
less alopecia. Has not found much benefit from the
ignada in staving off the temporal pain.
Bep. omnia ; increase cod oil to balf-an-ounce.
March 80. Still no improvement in eruption.
Merc. sol. 6, ii pilules half-an-hour before each meal.
Apply to rash oleate of mercury (Squire) instead of the
Uq. carbonis detergens. Continue cod oil.
April 26. Witii the exception of trifling, tiny scales on
neck and shoulders, the rash has gone. Has had no
headache.
Bep. mere. soL et olectte. Omit cod oil.
Comments : Though this rash occupied a typical syphi-
litic site, that portion of the nape where the hairy scalp
terminates, yet it was evidently a non-specific rash.
Added to the total absence of a syphilitic history, there
was not the faintest trace of pharyngeal scar ; there was no
eruption on the forearms, and no coppery discolouration
anywhere.
With regard to the clinical uses to which we should put
this unintentional proving of the effect of arsenic on the
860 SKIN DISEASE.' "S^^S??^.
Beyitw, June 1, 18B1.
nervoas system^ we shonld note that it ongbt to proye
especially cnrative in ''throbbing temporal headache,
aggravated by mental excitement."
EcZCTfld*
No. 8. Captain E., SBt. 41. Is a military man, tall
and athletic, with very large vital organs and a most
mnscular frame. He now resides in Brittany.
I had formerly attended his father, also a British officer,
for varicosis, occurring with some obscure gouty symptoms.
Captain E. has had slight gonorrhoea, but never con-
tracted syphilis. His immunity from the latter disease
cannot, however, be attributed to prudence, for though now
deficient in sexual power he has led what is known as
*^ a fast life." Has never been salivated. Of late has had
a great deal of social worry. He has two healthy children
perfectly free from eruption.
Twelve years ago he had rheumatic fever, but it has left
no apparent disturbance of the circulatory system.
Three years ago he was bitten on the left knee by a dog.
Soon after he observed a ''breaking out" on the knees,
then on the elbows.
Two years ago, when at Cannes, the eruption appeared
Tery badly in the head, causing much scaling of the scalp.
Has been for varying times uuder the usual specialiste.
Under the late Dr. T. F. for eight months, under
Mr. E. W. during six months, and under Dr. W. C. for
three months, with very unsatisfactory results.
His lower abdomen, legs, arms, and neck, are thickly
<;overed with eczema, and now present a most painful
appearance; many points being denuded of epidermis,
covered with a mixture of blood and serum. He has lost
three nails through the rash. He sleeps badly, does not
dream, but frequently starts. Changes of temperature
irritate the skin very much. On retiring to bed, at first
the rash begins to itch ; on rising in the morning he is in
a very uncomfortable sticky condition, he has a great
aversion to warm clothing at this time. Symptoms are
greatly intensified by dust. There is no sensible perspira-
tion ; never feels giddy ; memory good ; stuffing of ears at
times ; no thirst ; mouth natural ; throat sound ; feels
better without butcher's meat; teeth are in good order;
liver slightly enlarged; no wind; no piles. Sometimes
leaves the bed, but the bladder is natural : often a sediment
SSSS'S??*?^ 8KIN DISEASE. 851
Beview, Jane 1, 1881.
of lithates, bat no uric acid. Has a slight cold and congh.
Has not taken cod oil since he was a boy.
To feed well : plenty of fresh fish, bird, &c., two qnarts
of scalded milk a day. To avoid butcher's meat, salted
articles, tea, coffee, and wine.
Feb. 2, 1881. PU, copaiba 1, ii every two hours.
lAq. earb, deterg. 5 ii. vaseline i i. apply freely each
night. Cod oil at bedtime.
" Finisterre, March 20.
'^ I have to make a most favourable report of my health.
My neck is quite well ; sometimes there is a slight irritation
bat very seldom. Arms a little roagh, but there are no
sore places on them. The lower part ^stomach and groins
quite well, Uight leg has about half a dozen small places,
bat the skin has a healthy appearance. Left leg is sore on
inside of thigh a little, and rather reddish. The calf and
knee are well. I awake at night sometimes with a sense of
discomfort and general irritation, but very little actual
itching. If I am bothered about anything, the feeling of irri-
tation comes on by day. I take a good deal of preserved fruit.
I have eaten very little meat, a good deal of fish, vegetables,
eggs and chicken. Except one cup of chocolate in the
morning, I drink nothing but milk. I have taken the
pilules {copaiba) regularly, but not the cod liver oil, as a
big bottle I got was broken on the journey. My spirits are
good, my bowels regular, I can walk well, and now con-
stantly go fishing, &c., &c. As fftr as it has gone, the
remedies have done me more good than I have received
from any previous treatment."
March 25. Pil copaiba 1, ii. mane nocteque, Cod-oU in
gradually increasing quantities at bedtime. Repeat ung.
carbonis,
" April 2ith.
*^I have been altogether fairly well. I had one bad
attack of eruption, commencing with the usual feeling of
uneasiness and heat. I quite put this down to some news
I got which troubled me. In fact, the more I study my
isase, the more I see how it is affected by the state of my
mind. This attack is now passing off without the use of
any outward application. There are still some cracks
ander my left knee, but from a moist state it soon com-
menced to dry up, and in three days was quite desiccated.
When this began the itching and general irritation
returned, but I have hardly any now. If I suffer from
852 OBSTINATB CONSTIPATION. ^^^fj^SSTwau
heat and discomfort, it is nearly always in the morning,
jast when I have dressed ; very rarely indeed at night now.
I have eaten yery little meat, and have drank nothing bat
milk since yon last wrote. I have been taking cod liver
oil.
''I am certfdnly mnch stronger* and imtil this last
attack came on I have been fishing, gardening, driving,
and walking regnlarly."
April 28. No topical treatment.
Repeat copaiba 1. Omit cod oil.
Conmients : Aversion to batcher's meat is, I think, so
freqaently based on some good physiological reason, that I
nsnally hnmonr it. I have seen sach very remarkable
benefit in a temporary suspension of all strong forms of
animal food, that I cannot doubt the wisdom of with-
holding it.
This patient's conviction that the state of his nervous
system had much to say to his rash, is interesting in con-
nection with modem views of the neurotic origin of that
dermic catarrh, which we call '^ eczema."
I have, in another place, pointed to the interesting
coincidence that the eozematous remedies, dtUc.^ sulph.f
ars,, mere. J copaiba, and others are essentially our catarrhal
remedies.
CASE OF OBSTINATE CONSTIPATION.
By Dn. A. S. Kennedy.
Th2 following case I have deemed worthy of notice on
account of two or three interesting points which it brings
out. The first, is the way in which constipation is fre-
quently produced in young children, especially girls ; the
second, is the extreme degree of constipation which may
exist without incapacitating the patient from going about
the daily round of duty ; and the third is the rapidity, so
pleasant to the young practitioner, with which the case
yielded to suitable homoeopathic remedies.
Mary S., eet. 12, the child of poor parents, going to a
•Board School, has for s<xne three months past been
troubled with constipation. This arose in the outset from
the habit, formed in school, of repressing the inclination to
attend to the call of nature; often going a whole day
£3Sfj^?r5SS?** ABSBNIOAL POISONING. 358
withont trying to relieve the bowels. At length, a period
would elapse of sometimes four days or a week between the
motions. Pain was felt in the abdomen, which began to
gettnmid and tender. The mother administered various
soothing compounds of salts mixed with senna, castor oil
in large doses, and finally, a whole box of Mother Some-
body-or-other's Purifying Pills. The effect of this mild
persuasion, though doubtless astonishing at the time, was
but temporary, and, before bringing the child to me, ten
days had elapsed without any motion. The condition was
now serious ; all food taken was vomited, and occasionally
vomiting of dear fluid took place, brought on by stooping
forward. Great headache and languor and pain in the
abdomen. On examination externally, the colon was
found distended, and large masses of foeces could be made
oat. The child could scarcely bear to be touched, and her
dress had been considerably let out to accommodate the
distension.
April 27th. — NtLx, 80, 2 pilules every night ; Sidph. 80,
2 pilules every morning.
May 4th.— Considerable improvement since last time ;
instead of an interval of ten days, the patient has had five
motions in seven days. Abdomen noticeably diminished,
and less tender. Rep. ambo.
May 11th. Much better to-day ; child states that she
feels all right again. No pain. Swelling and hardness
gone. Six motions this week. Bep. ambo.
16, Montpelier Bow, Blackheath.
THBEE CASES OF AESENICAL POISONING.
By John H. Clabee, M.D.
ToUe causam is a maxim which scarcely receives fair play
at the hands of homoeopathists. The favourite cry of our
opponents, we feel how little it can do for them in the
matter of treatment in the great majority of cases, and we
pity their helplessness. The cause of a disease is so often
beyond our reach, if not beyond our ken, and has so often
ceased to have any active connection with the disease, that
we who have remedies, and a method of finding them, set
about the work of removing the condition before us, paying
little attention to the circumstances that may have brought
it about. And generally we are justified by the result.
No. 6, Yol So. a A
364 AB8BNICAL POISONING. ^^^SL^xS!^'^
Beview, June 1, Iffil
In most acute diseases it is impossible to discoyer the
cause, and when it is possible, to trace ont the connection
between this and the result. In chronic diseases where
the matter is of more importance, we are content if we can
form some general notion of ''inherited taint," ''mental
strain," " over-work," " worry," etc., to explain what we see;
and with onr heads full of " totalities of symptoms," and
similar pathogeneses, we do not pursue the study of causes
yery far. But in this I venture to say we are unwise. It
may be that in the great majority of cases it is either
impossible to find the cause, or of little use when we have
found it, but there is a not inconsiderable minority of cases
(which we do not think it worth while to publish), at which
we have been firing one by one, or one i^r another, half
the remedies in the Materia Medica, and all in yain, where
aU our trouble, and much of our patients', might have been
saved by an accurate diagnosis of the cause in the first
instance.
In all chronic diseases it is not enough to diagnose the
present state and the right remedy to cure it, but it is
almost equally necessary to diagnose accurately the cause
that has brought it about, and, it may be, is keeping it up.
However difficult it may be to get at the true history of a
case we should never be content till we have made it out as
clearly as it is possible to do. The richness of our Materia
Medica constitutes a real hindrance to us in this. We
choose a remedy that ought to cure, and if it fails we have
another to fly to without being compelled to enquire
particularly into the cause of the failure of the first.
Wherever a well-chosen remedy fails to do for us what it
ought, we should, before setting about selecting another,
endeavour to find the reason why the former did not act.
The three cases I am about to put on record are an
illustration of this. Had they occurred to me three years
ago, before I had become aware of the lavish way in which
arseuic is supplied to the home's of England, I should
doubtless have given arsenic in each case as a remedy, with
the result of making them all worse. This would have
surprised me, but nothing daunted I should have gone on
prescribing this medicine or the other, varying the dilutions
from time to time, and should doubtless have been now
and again deluded by partial success. For it is often
possible to relieve the sufferings of arsenical poisoning by
similarly acting substances, even whilst the exposure to
^^S^^^^"^^ AB8ENI0AL POISONING. 365
arsenic continnes. But this is rather a misfortune than
otherwise, for it only serves to conceal the source of the
mischief without materially affecting the course of the
poisoning.
The first two cases I have to narrate occurred in the
same house. The patients were mother and daughter.
They came to me at the London Homoeopathic Hospital
as out-patients.
March 19, 1881. Mrs. Hannah K., 55, housewife, dark,
florid, spare, complains as follows : — She has pain at the
epigastrium of a scraping character, fulness after food,
much flatulence, passing both upwards and downwards.
She has great weakness and faintness. She wakes with
burning pain in the bregmatic region of the head, has much
pain across the eyes, and burning in them. Sight dim.
The tongue is dirty at the back; bowels confined;
appetite fair.
The conjunctivfiB are darkly congested in their lower half.
The mucous membrane of pharynx is dark. The gums are
healthy, though she has had much neuralgia and has lost
many teeth. She has been ailing a long time.
On enquiry I elicited the following history. The family
had lived in their present house eight years. They had
never been healthy since they took it. AH who lived in it
had once every six weeks a feverish attack. One son who
had left home had not had an attack of the kind since, and
had been quite well. Tbey thought it might be due to
chemical works in the neighbourhood, but did not know of
any of their neighbours suffering in the same way. All
the rooms in the house were papered, some of the walls
having as many as five or six thicknesses.
I will now relate the other case. Annie K — , 26, thin,
pale, dark, unhealthy-looking, says she is suffering much
in the same way as her mother. She has scraping pain at
the epigastrium before and after food, much flatulence,
which comes upward, disinclination for exertion, at times
severe faint attacks.
Tongue thinly coated white, bowels regular, appetite
very good, catamenia regular, pulse small and quicks teeth
and gums healthy, phamyx dark, conjunctivsB congested,
sight good.
It was evident to ttie that both these patients were
suffering from the safioe cause, and, in the light of the
history, I had little doubt what that cause was. I gave
356 ABSENICAL POISONING. ^S^.^^^J^SSf
them both carbo. veg. 6, one drop in water three times a
day, as that medicine seemed most clearly indicated after
Cardiac weakness, freqnent fainting or tendency to fiednt,
is one of the most prominent symptoms of arsenical
poisoning of any standing. The periodical fever occnrring
regularly every six weeks is a feature of great interest. I
was much struck with it, because I had never met with it
before, but had been told of it, and the information was
volunteered by the patient herself without being asked for.
It was mentioned to me first by a lady who has done more,,
perhaps, than anyone else, directly and indirectly, to bring
this subject before the public and the profession, but who
has not seen fit to publish her name. For many years she
Buffered in her own person and in her family a tale of mis-
fortunes, almost incredible, from this same cause, and being
possessed of unusually keen and accurate powers of obser-
vation, she has been able to turn her misfortunes to good
account. Amongst other things, she told me that she
noticed her children, at the time they were suffering from
poisoning from their nursery paper, used to become much
worse every six weeks — an exacerbation occurring^ and
then subsiding.
I had not much hope of the carbo. veg. being of much
service, and I asked the patients to let me have specimens
of all the papers there were in the house. The majority of
them were arsenical, some were very bad, and there was no
room in the house that had none. Most of the rooms had
several arsenical papers pasted one over the other.
But somewhat to my surprise, each of the patients at
the fortnight's end was very much better. The gastric
trouble — the chief thing complained of — was greatly
relieved, and I continued the medicine, waiting for the
time, which I knew must come, when the poison should
again assert its ascendency. The reports continued
fjEtvourable till April SOth, when the mother alone appeared,
saying they had not been so well, had had an attack of
the fever. This is her account of the attack: — ^During
the week her head had been very bad. It began on a
triangular patch of the forehead, the point of the triangle
being at the root of the nose. This part burned and was
red, and the burning spread all over the head and was
accompanied with smarting. The eyes became bad, and
she got into a state of burning fever all over. She alwaya
^SJ^jSI^mSl^ absbnioal poisoning. 867
wakes with a bnnimg pain in the head^ and is so weak she
can hardly dress herself. The flatnlence is still keeping
^tter.
The daughter was also much worse again.
I told the patient this was nothing more than I expected,
and that very little was to be hoped for from medicines. If
«he were to get ont of the house, or get the house put into
a healthy state, she would find herself gradually getting
hetier, and cease to suffer, as her son had done who had left«
It will be seen that the carbo veg. was of decided service
in relieving some of the symptoms, and might have deluded
me with the idea that there could be no constantly acting
<$ause. But the fact that the health generally was not
improved for any length of time would have been enough
to dispel the illusion. The fact of the possibiUty of
relieving the sufferings is no proof that arsenic is not the
oause.
The third case is of a somewhat different kind, but
presenting many features in common with the above.
Edith H. P — , 17> living at home, came to me April IGth,
1881. She was excessively pale and ansamic, nervous,
fidgety, — almost amounting to chorea. She was rather
small, well-made, delicate features.
She complained of headache on waking in the morning,
aching in the limbs, sickness after eating, tendency to
erysipelas in the nose, fainting often when anything startled
her.
Tongue very pale, bowels regular, appetite varies; she
is fanciful ; sleep is bad in the early part of the night ;
catamenia came on at 14, were regular, but now are very
scanty.
On enquiry I found this excessive pallor only dated
from last summer, that she returned from school last
Christmas twelve months in very good health and with a
good colour. The family history was good. One sister
who lives away from home becomes ill and loses her colour
as soon as she comes home to stay. I made enquiries, and
asked for specimens of the bedroom and sitting-room ^all
papers. Both of them I found to be highly arsenical, and
they had been up all the time the patient had been at
home. The bedroom paper was a brownish-drab, and con-
tained much arsenic.
I gave heTferrum mur. 8x three times a-day, but in this
case there was no improvement, and I ordered her to be
358 REVIEWS. "SSlL^SS??^
Beview, June 1, Iffil.
sent away for a change, telling her mother either to get ont
of the house or to get the poisonous papers remoTed.
These cases speak their lesson of folk causam for them-
selves. There is scarcely need of comment, but I could
give it, if time and space would allow, by recording cases
of the same kind that I have treated unsuccessfully for
months before discovering the source of the mischief.
This mention, however, must serve for the present.
The field of causation is a large one, and I have
instanced arsenic, as that occupies a large share of it at
present, and loudly calls for the attention of the profession;
but it must not be imagined that this covers the whole
field. In conclusion, I would again urge the necessity in
all chronic cases of accurately diagnosing the cause, being
fully persuaded that if this is done the Petition Committee
of the British Homoeopathic Society will have enough and
to spare of the evidence it asks for.
15, St. George's Terrace,
Gloucester Boad, S.W.
May 9.
REVIEWS.
Useful Hints, to aid Workers among ike Poor and Sick,
Hamilton, Adams & Co. London.
Tms little book contains a collection of really valuable ioformatiGn
in an easily attainable form, suited to the use of mothers, nurses,
and district visitors. Many of the recipes for invalid diet are
given in a way that renders it difficult for anyone to make
mistakes. Copious directions are given as to ventilation of sick
rooms, immediate treatment of emergencies, use of disinfectants,
and the administration of various baths and packs. Instructions
and patterns are given how to make different bandages, and the
mode of their application.
One good point in this little manual is, that when mentioning
any special domestic appliance, needed in a hurry sometimes,
instead of vaguely hinting << that it may be easily procured
through a chemist or ironmonger," the name and address of the
firm who make it are given.
Interspersed through its pages are a number of rules for the
treatment of various diseases, which most people, less ambitious,
perhaps, than the authoress, would be inclined to leave to the
care and discretion of a medical practitioner. The mistake has
been made, as nearly always occurs with domestic amateurs, of
I^^J^STSS^ MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 369
fanejing that the same medicines are ad^ted to every case of
any given aihnent. For instance, in the treatment of measles,
we are told that pulsatiUa Iz is a most useful medicine, but no
mention is made of aconite. Directions also are given for cases
of suppressed measles, but no suggestion is made of the desira-
bility of medical aid. Doses, too, should be more defined. In
case of ulcers of the eye we are advised to take '^ euphrana (eye-
bright), small doses, and bathe the eye constantly with euphrasia
tea made from tbe herb." A child capable of carrying out the
authoress* directions in case of catching fire, would be well
worth exhibiting as a marvel. They are as follows: ''Every
child should be taught, in case of catching ^e, not to run out of
the room, but to ring the bell and roll a table-cover or hearthrug
round itself." Most admirable advice, doubtless, but no directions
are given as to those rooms where there is no bell or necessary
hearthrug. It would need a cooler head than a child's to enable
these minute directions to be carried out. On the whole, how-
ever, the manual is instructive, and suited to the class of persons
whom it is designed to reach. All efforts calculated to ameliorate
the condition of the suffering poor, deserve our best wishes.
MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES.
DINNER TO DR. BAYES.
On the 27th of April, a dinner was given to Dr. Bayes, the
honorary secretary of the London School of Homoeopathy, on
the occasion of his leaving London for Brighton, at the Grosvenor
Gallery, Bond Street, by a number of medical and other friends,
desirous of recognising the services he has rendered in developing
homoeopathy. The chair was occupied by Dr. Pope, who was
supported on his right by the guest of the evening, on his left by
the Earl of Denbigh. The vice-chair was filled by Major
Vauohan-Mobgan. There were also present : —
Dr. Donald Baynes (Canterbury), Dr. Galley Blackley
(London), Dr. Edward Blake (London), Dr. Dyce Brown
(London), Dr. Burnett (London), Dr. Burwood (Ealing),
W- D. Butcher, Esq. (Reading), Dr. Clarke (Kensington), Dr.
Clifton (Northampton), Dr. G. Clifton (Leicester), Dr. Collins
(Leamington), Dr. Cooper (London), Dr. Goldsboro(Camberwell),
Dr. Gardiner Gould (Eastbourne), H. Harris, Esq. (Camber-
well), Dr. Hughes (Brighton), Dr. Jagielski (London), Dr.
Kennedy (Bristol), Dr. Arthur Kennedy (Blackheath), Dr.
Matheson (London), Capt. Maycock (London), D. Noble, Esq.
(Southwark), Dr. Owens (Leamington), A. R. Pite, Esq.
(London), Dr. Ramsbotham (Leeds), F. Rosher, Esq. (London),
UEBTIN08 OF SOCIETIES.
Barinr.JmKl.UBl.
Dr. Roih (London), Dr. ScriTsn (London), Dr. Shav (Haslingt),
Dr. lAoyA Tnckey (London), Dr. Thurlow (London), and Dr.
Woodgatea (Reigate).
The dinner was excellenllj Berved, AAer the removal of the
cloth, the Chaibmak, in proposing the first toast, said : M; Lord
and Gentlemen, I ask jon to draik to the health of Her Most
Gracious Majesty onr Queen, a toast which, wherever Enghsh-
men are met together, has ever been, and I trust ever will be,
received with geuoine enthusiasm. (Cheers.) While obedience
to a Rojal command is, under anj circnmstances, a national dut^,
onr attachment to the person of our Sovereign renders a cheer-
ful and ready response not merely a duty, but an honour and a
pleaanre. For I believe the fiiat time in the hiatoiy of onr
profession we have, however, recently witnessed a command d
tiiia kind — a command by Her Majesty, isened to two
physicians, to go to the succour of a brilliant and illastnous
stateamas — responded to bat tardily and with nndisguised re-
luctance ; and we have abo seen an apology offered, and excuses
made, for having rendered that obedience before a Boyal — aye,
a Boyal College of Physicians. My Lord and Gentlemen, I need
not, I am sure, add that those physicians were not hom<eo-
pathlsts. (Lond cheers.)
The toast having been dnty honoured, the Vicb-Chubhin.
M^jor W. Vanghan- Morgan, eeiA, — Mr. Chairman, My Lord
Denbigh, and Gentlemen, the nest toast to he proposed Is one
which will always be popular. As Vice -Chairman, I have to ask
you to cbai^e your glasses and drink to the health of the Prince
of Wales — (cheers) — a toast which is ever received by all classes
with the warmest feelings of admiration and praise. Whether
tbe Prince of Wales performs bis duties as head of the great Order
of Masonry, or the duties which devolve upon him in connection
"h the State, he is always willing to spend bis powers for tbe
>lic good. (Hear, hear.) I hardly need say more respecting
i Boyal Highness than that at home or abroad, whether in
ris or Vienna — in iact, in every partof the Continent, all kinds
1 conditions of people respect and admire the Prince of Walcf,
(Those health we have now the honour to drink.
The toast having been duly honoured,
Dr. Pope said : My Lord and Gentlemen, I have to ask yon
w to join me in drinking very cordially, as Englishmen always
to the Officers and Men of the Army, Navy, and Bea^re
rces, whose readiness and courage in defending tiie institntioDS
I freedom of their country we have so often to acknowledge.
sk yon to drink this toast warmly, and couple it with the
ne of Mfuor Wm. Vaughan- Morgan. (Loud cheers).
rhe toast having been drunk, Miyor Vauohah-Moeoan, in re-
mding, said: Mr. Chairman, My Lord Denbigh, and Oenllemeo,
bSSS^jS^^wS^ meetings of societies. 861
I could very mnch have wished that the very pleasant task of
vesponding to this toast had fallen upon some one more worthy.
I am not ahle to say much from personal knowledge of those
services connected with the navy, my experiences, in common with
many, having been mainly limited to the Canard line and those little
steamers that carry ns from one continent to another in snch
comfort and Inxory. There is still a great deal of doubt and
misapprehension on the subject of the navy, and its great
efficiency and defensive power is mnch underrated. The fact is
yre have many vessels which could go anywhere and do anything :
while in its entirety the strength and fighting power of the British
navy is such that I think there could be no doubt of its being
able to cope single-handed with the whole navies of the world.
(Loud cheers.) But when we come to the army, and especially
the reserve forces, then, being somewhat of a specialist in the
matter, I do know something about it. I gladly take the oppor-
tonity to contradict the assertions of croakers — some of them old
public servants — asserting that the army is going down. I may
say that, personally, I knew that the British forces are at the
present time in a better position than ever they were, and also
that, as of old, they could go anywhere and do anything. The
fears entertained and expressed by the Press and military croakers
about the present system of short service are quite groundless.
Coming to the militia and reserve forces — (cheers) — I may say
that the militia are still, as they used to be, the backbone of the
English military system. Everybody knows what services the
militia and reserve forces rendered in the Crimea — (cheers) — and
now with the volunteers — (hear, hear) — ^there can be no doubt that
the regular army could on an emergency be supplemented with
something like a quarter of a million of men. (Loud applause.)
It is due to the memory of Lord Beaconsfield to say that, to him
belongs the honour of first showing to the European Powers the
military resources of the Empire by calling out a contingent of
Her Majesty's Indian Army. (Loud cheers.) I had occasion when
in India to judge the quiJity of the Indian soldier, which is in
every respect satisfactory. A finer race of soldiers than the Sikh
«avaJry I never saw. On behalf of Her Majesty's army, the
navy, and the reserve forces, I have to thank you for the
toast. (Cheers).
Dr. Pope : My Lord and Gentlemen, there is a toast which is
never neglected whei'e homoeopathic physicians are assembled,
and this toast I will now ask Dr. Burnett to propose.
Dr. BuBNETT : Mr. Chairman, Lord Denbigh, and Gentiemen,
'we cannot meet together as a company of medical men without
remembering that great benefactor of the human race to whom
we owe BO much. I refer to Samuel Hahnemann. When we
get up in the morning, and think what we can best do during
862 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ^SSii,5S??SS!
the day, the one man most nsefnl in the study is Hahnemiim;
when yon go ont to see yonr patients, the man who helps yon
most is Hahnemann ; and when yon come home to yom: con-
sulting room, the help you want is the help you get from
Hahnemann. If yon are ill yourself, and in douht what to do,
Hahnemann tells you. If your children are iU, Hahnemann
helps you again. All day long, in whatever position or difficulty
you may, in the exercise of your profession, find yourself,
Hahnemann is your best companion and guide. And although
he has long gone over to the majority, he still helps us more in
the practice of our science than all the Jenners and Gulls —
(laughter) — ^put together. The grand name of Hahnemann ^is as
good as ever ; and for his benefactions to medical science and to
the human race I ask you to drink to that name in silence.
The Chairhan then said, that before coming to the principil
business of the evening, he could hardly do better than make
reference to absent friends, He had received a very great
number of letters expressing regret that their friend Dr. Bayes,
who was present — (great cheering) — ^was about to retire from
London, and that the writers could not be present to do kim honour
on that occasion. He believed that the expressions of those letters
were but a reflex of the opinions of homoeopathic practitioners and
the public generally. Dr. Pope then read extracts from letters
received from Lord Ebury, Dr. Bryce, Dr. Hayle, Mr. Holford,
Mr. Alan E. Ofaambre, Dr. Proctor, Dr. Pybum, Dr. Roche,
Dr. Scriven (Dublin), Dr. Harmar Smith, Dr. Blumberg,
Dr. Dalzell, and Dr. Talbot (of Boston), and telegrams which
had just been received from Dr. Wheeler (of Clapton), and
Dr. Williams (of Clifton), regretting their inability to be
present. Now, my Lord and Gentlemen, the speaker continued,
I have to ask you to drink a bumper toast to our friend
Dr. Bayes. ('Loud cheers). The work that Dr. Bayes has
accomplished m promoting a knowledge of homoeopathy both
within and without the profession is so well known to all I
have the honour of addressing that it is needless for me to
enlarge upon it at any length.
More than a quarter of a century has elapsed since Dr. Bayes
became convinced that the therapeutic discoveries of Samuel
Hahnemann placed a power in the hands of the physician
greater and more fruitful of good results in cure-work than
those of any physician throughout the ages that have past had
done, greater also than those of any observer of our own time.
Dr. Bayes had not contented himself with a superficial know-
ledge of homoeopathy, still less with being a mere reputed
homoeopath. (Laughter.) Having formed a high estimate of
the value of homoeopathy, and feeling a proportionate respon-
sibility in possessing a knowledge of it, he has, throughout his
S^J^^MM^"* MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES- 368
professional career, left no stone untamed to teach homoeo-
pathy to others. As a contributor to our periodical literatctre,
as an author of separate publications, and still more prominently
as the initiator of carefufly-devised plans for the deyelopment of
homoeopathy, Dr. Bayes has ever talen a prominent position as
a homoeopathic physician. (Applause.) Thus, it has not
simply been the useful and personally adyantageous role of a»
sucoesaful physician that he has performed, but it has been by
the far more laborious and more worrying, the personally pro-
fitless and too often thankless task of undertaking public work
for the pubUc weal, that he has distinguished himself. It has
been by this that he has made his name known, his character
respected wherever earnest efforts are being made to render
homoeopathy more widely and more thoroughly known. (Hear,
hear). It has been by work of this kind that he has laid himself
under obligations to all who with him desire to see every
physician, both here and elsewhere, practically appreciate the
value of Hahnemann's discoveries. This is the work we are
here to-night to acknowledge. (Cheers). We do so on this
occasion in an address, and by presenting him with an album
containing our photographic portraits ; but I trust, my lord and
gentlemen, that we shall to-night, each and all of us, resolve to
do much more than this. Imitation is said to be the sincerest
form of flattery. Let us then, each of us, imitate Dr. Bayes, to
the best of our several abilities and in our several spheres, in
earnest and united efforts, to increase a knowledge of homoeo-
pathy. Our acknowledgment of his services would be a very
hollow afGedr indeed were we not to include in it a determination
to sustain and increase the efficiency of the London School of
Homoeopathy, the existence of which we owe to him. I ask you
then, gentlemen, to give to that institution your earnest support
in the future. In ^e report of last year's work, a scheme is
shadowed forth for that re-constitution which the lapse of time
has rendered necessary. That scheme appears, to those who are
responsible for its details, to be the one best adapted to the
wants of homoeopathy. At the same time it may, like all other
human devices, be susceptible of improvement, of being altered
with advantage to homoeopathy. The committee of the school
will, I am sure, be heartily glad of any suggestions which may
tend to its improvement, and will fully consider them before
the meeting in October at which the final decision is to be
arrived at. That committee will, I am sure, do nothing which
is in any way calculated to weaken the usefulness of the school
in any direction whatever. They are determined that it shall
not die out either suddenly or gradually. Therefore, any
suggestions offered solely in the interests of homoeopathy will be
most gratefully received — while yon may rely upon it, those which
tJ64 MEETINGB OF 80CIKTIB8. "SSS^.^^?i!mm!
-appear to-be made only in the interests of indiyidnals will be
disregarded. (Applause.) Those of ns who have the honour and
responsibility of lecturing are determined to exert ourselves to
ihe utmost to render it successful, and to make it the cradle of
future British homoeopaths, and of well-instructed homoeo-
paths, and I think we can do it. My opinion that we
can is based upon the examination papers sent in by Drs. Moir
^nd Thurlow in competition for the prize so generously given by
Dr. Bayes at the conclusion of each winter session for the
student who passes the best examination in Materia Medica and
Practical Medicine. These papers were excellent, and would
have done credit to many homoeopathic practitioners of consider-
able experience. They showed, moreover, both in manner and
indeed in phraseology, that the lectures had been listened to
with great attention and obvious interest. I need not say how
gratifying this was to the lecturers. (Cheers.)
I ask you then, gentlemen, to support Dr. Bayes and those
"who are united witib him in developing the London School of
Homoeopathy. I ask you, in this way, to give practical expres-
-sion to the sentiments which have brought you here to-night.
I referred just now to an Album and an Address, and before I
formally call upon you to drink to the toast I have proposed, I
will present you, Dr. Bayes, in the name of your coUeagoes,
with this album, in which you will find the portraits of many of
those who desire to take this opportunity of acknowledging your
great services to homoeopathy, and will read to you the address
in which they desire to express their feelings.
The Chaibman then read the following Address, which was
signed by between sixty and seventy medical men : —
** London, AprU. 27th, 1881.
<< Dear Dr. Bayes, — ^A number of your professional brethren,
together with others who have watched with much interest the
persevering efforts you have made, during many years, to extend
^ knowledge of homoeopathy, both throughout the profession of
medicine and among the public, desire, on the eve of your
removal from London, to express to you the strong sense they
entertain of the value of the work you have accomplished, the
undaunted energy you have displayed in its performance, and
the thoroughly disinterested motives by which you have ever
been actuated in devoting yourself to the propagation of the
principles of homoeopathy.
*' In laying the foundations of an Institution for the public
teaching of homoeopathy (The London School of Homoeopathy)
you have earned a full title to the gratitude of all who appreeiate
the value of the therapeutics of the school of Hahnemann. The
^ork you have done in this direction has been arduous, at times
l£S5?f J^STSr* MEETINGS OP SOCIETIBS. 865
*
we fear that it may have been attended with some diaconrage*
ment, bat it must be a satisfaction to you to feel that it has
aehieTed a measure of 8ucce9S, which there is every reason to-
hope and believe will be largely added to in the future.
«Yoar exertions directed to increasing the prosperity, and
adding to the usefulness of the London Homoeopathic Hospital^
have been rewarded by a most appreciable increase in ita
revenues, and, we believe, in its usefulness as a field for the
praetioal study of homoeopathy.
**In these and in other ways you have rendered essential
services to the progress of scientific medicine — services which we
desire on this occasion publicly to acknowledge.
'* While regretting deeply the loss which we shall sustain by
your removal from London, we trust that, with renewed health,,
both the Institution which you have founded, and that which yoa
have fostered, will continue for many years to come to derive
advantage firom your energy, enthusiasm, and intimate acquaint-
ance wiUi their requirements."
The health of Dr. Bayes was then drunk with every expression
of the warmest feeling.
Dr. Bavxs, ^ho on rising was received with loud and prolonged
applause, said that he fdt it quite impossible to adequately
exprecm his sense of the honour they had done him or the kind
words they had spoken of him. Their cordial appreciation was
far beyond the deserts of anything he had been able to do in the
cause they had so much at heart. He was obUged to throw
himself on their sympathy, for the statement that he was retiring
from London practice in consequence of failing health was no
mere excuse. It had been said by Buffon that the cause of death
of a large number of the human species was worry and disap-
pointment. In the work which he had undertaken he had had a
large share of both, and this had really afiected his health. He
had, therefore, to ask them to allow him to read his reply to the
address. But he would preface that reply by stating that in
Persia it was regarded as the greatest compUment to be allowed
to look upon the countenance of the Shah. In like manner he
would assure them that he felt rewarded and supported by being
privileged to gaze upon the countenances of his friends on that
Db. Batss then read as follows : —
« Mr. Chairman, my Lord, and Gentlemen, the Address with
whieh, out of the goodness and warmth of your hearts, you have
presented me this evening, the greatly-prized and most welcome
gift of your photographed countenances with which you have
asaoeiated it, and the handsome and noble banquet by which yoa
have bound these evidences of your goodwill together, over-
whehn me with gratitude and thankfalness. All these pleasant
366 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ^S^ijf^SMi^
things are far more than I deserve or even dared to desire in
return for the work I have heen enabled to do for the common
good. I feel humbled by the consideration of my own short-
comings, and of your too great appreciation of my small effort ;
but I receive your many giflts fuU of gratitude, And they will
. encourage me to further perseverance.
'* This auspicious occasion resembles the ceremony of laying
the foundation-stone of a future . building (as you say in your
address), which may become a permanent school for the practical
and theoretical teaching of homoeopathic science, rather than the
ceremony of rejoicing at the completion of a finished structure.
We have met with many difficulties in obtaining a seenre
foundation, but I trust we have at last overcome them, and that
we have succeeded, as it were, in blasting a foundation out of
the solid rock. We are about to lay the comer-stone to-night
of a super-structure which shall be devoted to scientific progress
in medicine.
** It is usual to deposit many things, such as coins, &c., under
the foundation stones of public buildings, to show to future
generations the age when the buildings were erected. In
founding the school of the future, let us bury beneath its corner-
stone the differences which have hitherto hindered us, and, by
the permanence of our institution, let us trust that these
differences may never again see the light. Differences of
opinion exist everywhere, and especially congregate where men*8
minds are most active. Activity means life. Active-minded
men think, and plan, and attempt to carry out their plans.
Then arise other active-minded men, who think they could have
done better, and so form an opposition. What is an oppo-
sition ? In the first place, opposition pre -supposes an interest
in the thing opposed. It has been well said that the opposite to
' love ' is not ' hate,' but * indifference,' for hate shows that an
interest is felt in the person hated, whereas indifference shows
an utter disregard to him and his feelings. Difference of
opinion, when expressed, brings out further thought and excites
self-criticism of their work in those who have actively engaged
their minds in it. It is useful to every work that it should be
severely criticised. It enhances its perfection. Friends may
well overlook blots which opponents, who are actively looking for
defects, readily see and point out. Hence, opponents may
unintentionally be among our best Mends. We, as homoeo-
paths, have met and still do meet with an opposition outside our
ranks which, though hard to bear> has really been sent in God's
good providence to force upon us a more careful examination
into the truth of the principle sinUlia nmUUms curantuTy than
we should have given it had there been no criticising opposition.
Like a high wind, opposition winnows the wheat firom tiie chaff;
SSSSJfjSJiTSf*'* MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 367
therefore, geniiemen, however unpleasant the stormy winds of
opposition are, they have their uses. We of the school party
have not escaped them. We mnst not murmur at the stormy
wind which hlows away and scatters weak friends, weak
principles, and weak arguments. We should rather rejoice, for
when the chaff is hlown away, the solid wheat remains to follow
its nnimpeded course of fructification.
'< Architects tell us that the strength of a hridge only equals
that of its weakest part, that the strength of a chain only equals
that of its weakest link^ and to a great extent this comparison
holds good as to weak supporters ; we are hetter rid of them.
Some of the opponents of the school have based their opposi-
ticm on their idea of the impossibility of its success. I recently
read in Lord Clyde's Life (by Shadwell) that he wrote this
motto (translation from the (rerman) on his note-book : — * By
means of patience, common sense, and time, impossibilities
become possible.' Let me commend this motto to our feeble-
kneed opponents. I might push the illustration of this great
trath to its extreme limit. I might say, the possible may
become probable ; and the probable, by a little further exercise
of determination, may become transformed into a certainty of
success.
*' I am now going to venture on very delicate ground.
'* Some of my friends, I am told, have been scared by what
they choose to term my Radical tendencies. Now, I freely con-
fess to you all that in one sense I glory in being a Radical ; I
like to go to the root of a matter. Hahnemann was a Radical
in this sense. He saw that allopathic medicine was erroneous
in theory and dangerous in practice, and in place of lopping off
a few Inranches and curtailing the unhealthy luxuriance of the
allopathic upas tree, he struck at its roots, in the minds of his
followers, and uprooted and overturned the whole tree of error
within them. In this sense, gentlemen, every one of Hahne-
mann's true followers is a Radical* We must cease to do evil
before we can learn to do well. I lately read in the diary of a de-
ceased clergyman this definition of the three great political parties :
* Toryism — ^regret for the past.' * Conservatism — content with
the present.* * Radicalism — belief in the future.' Again, in
this sense, I am a Radical.
** What is the root of the present matter ? What is the raison
d*etre of our school ? It is that the lay element of homoeopathy
has increased far beyond the professional ; that consequently
everywhere arouAd us we see our sheep without a shepherd.
Towns with 20,000, 40,000, nay 50,000 and even 100,000
people, a very large and influential section of whose inhabitants
are homodopaths, have no homoeopathic medical aid within a
reasonable distance. It is to correct this, it is to provide
868 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES, ^SSil^™??^
Beview, June 1, 18B1.
skilled bomceopathio medical aid that onr school has beeik
founded. We are not contented with the orthodox, maddled,,
medical practice of the present day, but, gentlemen, with all my
heart, I want you to beheve in the future of progreiisiT»
medicine.
'* I cannot conceive any other future in medicine than its ex-
tension in the direction of homoeopathy as the natural result
of the accumulated investigations of scientific research. The
revelation through the microscope of the powers of infinitesi'
mal forces tend towards the extension of the pharmacody-
namics of Hahnemann ; but, again, we must fall back on
' Patience, Common Sense, and Time.* The medical Toryism
of the past is not easily overcome. From the earliest time ^ere
has been, in men*s minds, a tendency to worship the material*
A conflict between the worship of idols and spiritual worship
has been waged throughout the world's history. We are only
fighting the old battle that has raged ever since, in PhaUic
worship, the boys and girls and women and men of pre-historie
times danced roxmd, and feU down, in adoration of the erect
pole — a worship still traceable in the may-pole of the villiige-
green, and in the attitude of the allopaths who may be said to
fail down and worship pestle and mortar, pill and draught.
They are surrounded by evidences of the power of infinitesmuJ
and malignant influences in a diflusion of small-pox, seaikt
fever, measles, and other pestilences. Yet they refuse to
recognise the power of beneficent infinitesimal inflaences to
cure or prevent disease. When the life of an ex-Premier lately
hung in the balance on what did his existence depend ? On
there being an east or a west wind. Yet by what test can a
a man of science analyse an east wind, or point out in what
resides ! its deadly power ? It remains for the men of our
Homoeopathic School to demonstrate these things.
'* All who are here met together are men of progress, so far as
medicine is concerned. We form the party of progress. We
have begun to march forward, after an indefinite time of waiting,
for the opening of the gates of the allopathic mind. We can
wait no longer. If we cannot obtain the means of giving
homoeopathic instruction within the recognised schools, we must
found and carry out one of our own. To do this, requires not
only money, but the active help of all who prize the benefits of
homoeopathic treatment. If we cannot obtain full Hberty for the
practising and teaching of homoeopathy within the established
schools and hospitals, we must found schools and hospitals of our
own, on a sufficient scale to instruct students of our own, on
terms of equality with those of other licensing and teaching
bodies. If we cannot obtain fraternity, let us at least assure to
ourselves liberty and equality.
ISSSl^j^?rS^ MBBTINaB OP BOCIBTIBB. 869
"I am told I havealanned certain of my friendB by the
magnitnde of the sum which I have deemed requisite for
carrying oat the scholastic and hospital requirements of this
iksheme. Some call me a ' good beggar/ and excuse themselyes
for their own want of material contributions to homoeopathio
institutions by the opposite assertion that they are not < good
beggars.' I fireely confess that I am wUUng to beg in so good a
cause, and am not ashamed, I would even join the Llamas of
Thibet, and set up praying wheels, and send praying horses
flying oyer the country on every wind, could I only obtain the
mm I require by so doing. In our country, advertisements
occupy the same place as do the praying horses in Thibet, on
which are written the blessings desired by the Llamas. What
we desire we mtist ask for. Asking is the foundation of every
-prayer. Some professional men seem to consider that there is
something derogatory to professional dignity in advertising the
names of the professors in medical s<^ools and the medical
officers attached to public hospitals. I can only say to such
gentiemen that I admire their ' patience,' but I cannot admire
their ' common sense.' Every successful hospital and school in
our country advertises itself and its professors and teachers
largely. Why are we to be debarred from such means of
necessary publicity, and to bury ourselves in oblivion ? I may
be permitted shortly to recapitulate, and to show the work which
has been done during the four years of our school's existence.
** We have formed a Materia Medica Museum by the labours of
Dr. Blackley, through whose exertions we have also formed a
«mall but useful library. We have subsidised lecturers, who
have delivered from 70 to 80 lectures on the Principles and
Practice of HomcBopathy in each year, and during the same
period a similar number of lectures have been delivered on Materia
Medica. Good instruction has been given within the hospital
by competent teachers, and about or rather more than twenty-
^ve medical men have passed through our courses of lectures
with great credit to themselves. Snudl though these numbers
appear, we must remember the difficulties which surround the
establishment of a new institution, and we must hope that by
* patience ' and ' time,' the School of Homoeopathy, as it becomes
better known, will receive increased support. To tiiose who have
so willingly and so well worked with me, through evil report and
good report, I feel sure I may tender your warmest thanks as well
as my own ; and I feel confident that the time will come when
every member of the British homcBopathic body will award full
meed of praise to these active pioneers in the direction of
iiomoeopatliic instruction.
« Meanwhile, I must ask you to join with me in giving due
thanks, for their invaluable assistance, to Lord Ebury, our noble
No. 6, Vol. 25. 3 B
870 MEETINaS OP 8O0IBTIB8. ^'ffi.^SJilfiS!
President, Major Yanghan-Morgan, our Treasurer, and the
members of onr Committee and Council, for their labours have
been many and earnest ; neither must we forget our Lecturers
and Teadbers, and our Secretary, Captain Maycock. My owr
duties have been much lightened by the active and willing co-
operation of all these gentlemen, who well merit the hearty
thanks which all earnest-minded men among the homoeopathic
section of the public and profession are ready to give them."
Dr. Bayes resumed his seat amid loud and long-continued
cheers.
Dr. Clabee then said that it was with very great pleasure
he rose to propose a toast — <*The London HomoBopathic
Hospital." He commenced his acquaintance with the hospital
four years ago as house-surgeon, and he had had in that
capacity great opportunities of knowing its value as a clinical
school and as a school for the training of nurses. Dr. Clarke
then spoke of the importance of the School of Homoeopathy,
and remarked that it was not in his power to say how maeh was
due to the guest of the evening for his great efforts in the cause
of homoeopathy, but he might be permitted to testify to the
sympathy he had always shown for young practitioners. He had
great pleasure in asking them to dnnk to '' The London
Homoeopathic Hospital," coupling with the toast the name of
Major Yaughan-Morgan.
Major Yauosan-Mobgan, in replying on behalf of the hospital,
said : I am called upon to respond to your kind toast as treasurer
of our hospital. In that capacity it is my pleasing duty to state
that the homoeopathic hospital is at the present time, financially,
and structurally, in a better condition than ever it was in the whole
course of its existence. (Cheers). Its sanitary condition is actually
perfect in a scientific point of view, but, in addition to v^
valuable alterations and improvements in the drainage system,
we have just constructed what I may call a '* sanitary ward,"
that is, a ward for the proper isolation of nurses who have
returned from patients recovering from infectious diseases. In
addition we have re-decorated it in a very agreeable way, and now
it is certainly well worth a visit of inspection. I have mentioned
the hospital to homoeopathic physicians in all parts of the world,
and* I find that information about it is always received with
interest. In a few days we shall be having our annual meeting,
and nothing would please the board of management better than
to see on that occasion a large gathering of the homoeopathic
medical men. The speaker then read various quotations from
the draft report of tibe hospital, of which a copy had been
sent to him, and went on to say that the invested funds of the
hospital, if the amount invested on behalf of the hospital from
the legacy of the late Dr. Quin be included, would amount to
B^Jj^?:^^" MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 371
about Jg20,0G0, while the income had during the past few
years very sensibly increased — (cheers) — ^the subscriptions alone
being very nearly double, notwithstanding the loss of the
munificent annual subscription formerly paid by the school.
The speaker then went on to say that he particularly wished to
draw the attention of the medical profession to the {aicilities now
existing for nursing private patients. He felt perfect security in
saying that the nurses were as good as could be obtained. He
had heard from all kinds of professional sources of the estimation
in which they were held. I regard the hospital, continued the
speaker, in the light of a missionary hospital. lif it is looked at
simply as a hospital for the medical treatment of the sick poor,
then I can ui^e little reason for its existence more than I could
for St. George's. But educational opportunites were advantageous
— (hear, hear) — and that was the reason why Dr. Bayes and
those members of the medical profession, who took action with
him in founding a school in co-operation with the hospital, had
felt it so necessary that the work should be begun. I have now
to thank you very much for the kind way in which you have
received the toast of the London Homceopathic Hospital, and I
hope all those medical men who have not lately been to the
hospital will go over it and see for themselves its improved con-
dition ; and, I will only add, that if they see any points which do
not meet their views they have only to intimate them to the
board of management, who, I may safely say, will be only too
glad to carry out any really good suggestions.
Lord Denbigh, who was received with cheers, then said:
Dr. Pope and Gentlemen, it is with very great pleasure that I
find myself here in this goodly company of homoeopaths, and I
think it very fortunate that I have been in town to pay respect
to Dr. Bayes on this occasion. I have been a homoeopath ever
since I was a boy at Eton, now some forty years ago^(oheer8)—
and having long felt it a duty to interest myself in methods for
the relief of suffering, I have found that the practice of homoeo-
pathy is the only rational treatment of disease. (Cheers*)
Becently I have had some plain examples of the methods of old-
school medicine in my own experience. A brother of mine
having just had a rather severe attack of illness, and no homoeo-
pathic doctor being near, we were obliged to rely upon an
old-school practitioner, who administered according to the old
traditions, I only being able to slip in a little homoeopathy
where I could. His progress was exceedingly slow; but I
revenged myself by telling the medical attendant that if the
patient had been under a homoeopathic doctor he would have
been better in half the time. Of Uie general ignorance of the
public, as to the actual nature of homoeopathy, we have, I think,
had some striking instances in the papers lately. Still I think
2b^2
372 MEETINGS OP BOCIETIEB. ^^^wf^STJan!
the correspondence in the Timet which has amnsed us bo nmch —
(laughter) — ^will do good, for it certainly calls the attention of the
pnhfic to the great question of the worth of homcBOpathy. But
the amount of ignorance as to the true nature of homoeopathie
doctrines has been most extraordinary — (hear, hear)^6ti]l the
result must be beneficial, as attention is thereby called to
homoeopathy, and enquiries are made. We have met here
this evening to show respect to one of the best friends of
homoeopathy — (cheers) — one whose goodwill, and energy, and
zeal have done much to remove obstacles standing in the way of
homoeopathic science. (Applause). I trust that in the same
way any difficulties appearing in the way of the school may
disappear. The noble lord then went on to speak of the great
interest he took in new medical discoveries, especially many
relating to the treatment of cancer, of which he had seen some
noteworthy cases at the hospital in Osnaburgh Street. The
noble lord concluded by proposing as a toast the London School
of Homoeopathy.
The toast having been duly honoured, Dr. Dyos Bbown
thanked the assembly for the very kind manner in which they
had responded to the toast — ^The London School of Homoeopathy,
for which they were all indebted to their genial friend, Dr. Bayes.
That institution had to contend against very great difficulties,
and considering that it had not been in existence more than four
years, it certaloly had not been unsuccessful, especially when
its peculiar relation to other hospitals was borne in mind.
Students had their own work at their own hospitals to get throu^,
and it would be only those whose interest was very much
excited in the subject of homoeopathy who would take the extia
work of attending courses of lectures and clinical instmcticm at
another hospital. That being so, it was to be expected that the
number of students would be small. With their own hosptal
course to attend to, and the preparation for their examinations,
there could be no wonder that comparatively few men attended
the lectures while they were students. Then, when they got
their diplomas, they go away as soon as they can into practice,
and so cannot attend our lectures. Looking at these foots, the
school has not been unsuccessful with its twenty or thirty names
of students attending the lectures, and so the four years of its
existence cannot be said to have borne no fruit. With r^ard to
the scheme already mentioned, it was a scheme which well-
wishers of the school ought to approve. It provided for the
continuance of the work. Indeed, Dr. Pope and himself had
decided, if it were found difficult to remunerate them for their
services that they would continue their lectures without salary—
(applause) — and so carry on what they believed to be a necessazy
and a good work.
SSrtS^/Stwa!^ MEETINaS OF SOCIETIES. 878
Dr. Both said that, at that advanced hoar, he would not
detain the company by any lengthened remarks, bnt the duty
had been imposed upon him to call attention to the Intemational
Gongrefis to be held in the present year, and to urge them to
appear in large numbers and give a hearty welcome to their
American and Continental ccmfreres. In connection with that
Congress, he had intended to mention the name of the President,
bat as Dr. Haghes had been obliged to leave, he would call upon
Dr. Jagielski to respond.
Dr. Jagielski remarked that he would much rather that the
duty of responding to this call had fallen upon Dr. Hughes, but
as he had been obliged to leave early, it gave him (the speaker)
the opportunity of saying how highly he estimated his gifts. He
had attended Dt. Hughes's lectures, and could testify to the
great knowledge and mastery of science displayed in them.
(Cheers). He was a man eminently fitted to occupy a
professorial chair.
Dr. CoopEB then proposed as a toast the gentlemen on whom
the great burden of the work of organising the dinner to Dr.
Bayes had fallen, namely, Dr. Blackley and Dr. Kennedy. He
was sure that the thanks of the meeting were due to those
gentlemen for the very able and energetic manner in which they
had exerted themselves. (Applause). As to their friend, Dr.
Bayes, he was justly entitled to a foremost place among medical
reformers. In fact, the high chturacter of his work was shown
by that very occasion, for in England every great work must
either begin or end with a dinner — (laughter) — a method which
certainly had the advantage of creating a cordial feeling among
its promoters. No one among their brethren was more worthy
of honour than Dr. Bayes. (Applause). When he (the speaker)
first came to London, he called on Dr. Bayes who made him
most welcome to his house, and gave him advice which had
proved most valuable to him. He would not easily forget the
hearty maimer in which Dr. Bayes had extended to him the right
hand of fellowship. There was no ill-will, no jealousy, nothing
but kindness. (Loud cheers). Now, it was a delicate point to
touch upon the great opposition which Dr. Bayes had encoun-
tered in a work ^r which he really deserved all praise. (Cheers).
It had even been said that he had been seeking his own interest.
(" No, no.**) Well, that was ahbel. (Loud cheers). There was an
old saying that the more the moon shines the more the dogs
bark. (Much laughter). Well, there could be no doubt that there
had been some very loud barking here. He (the speaker) con-
cluded by saying that he hoped the younger men in the profession
would profit by the example Dr. Bayes had set them — (hear, hear)
— ^and would follow it strenuously, energetically, and, he trusted,
as saccessfoUy. (Applause).
874 HOTABIUA. "S^^SMf.
Dr. Blackley, in acknowledging the toast, said he conld
entirely bear oat what had been remarked by Dr. Cooper as to
the readiness of Dr. Bayes at all times to give the wisest advice
and the kindest assistance to his yonnger brethren. He had
himself gone to Dr. Bayes for advice, and had much reason to
thank him for his wise and practical counsel.
Dr. Eenmedt also thanked the company for the kind and
appreciative manner in which they had responded to the toast,
and desired to add his testimony to the miiform kindness of
Dr. Bayes in his position at the top of the professional tree to
those of his brethren who were just ascending the lower
branches.
Dr. Matheson said that he conld most cordially endorse all
that had been said in favour of Dr. Bayes. He had for a long
time been very closely associated with him, and, whatever some
might have said, he could testify that if Dr. Bayes had any
wickedness in him, he (Dr. Matheson) had never been able to
discover it. But he rose at that late hour to propose the health
of the Chairman, and to offer him the thanks of his brethren
for his vivacity, his eloquence, and the powerful speech witb
which he had favoured tiiem. The toast was honoured with
enthusiasm.
Dr. Pope said he thanked them extremely for the cordiality of
their toast. The proceedings that evening had given him
sincere gratification, especially as he, as well as others, had felt
that it would have been a lasting disgrace to them to have
allowed Dr. Bayes to leave London without some slight token of
their sense of the work he had accomplished, and an expression
of the esteem in which he was held.
Thanks were then tendered by Dr. Burnett to Lord Denbigh
for his kindness in giving them the encouragement of his
presence, and, after a few remarks from his lordship, the
company dispersed.
NOTABILIA,
THE " TIMES " AND HOMCEOPATHY.
It will be within the recollection of our readers that in the
Times of last Good Friday a letter appeared on the subject
of homoeopathy, displaying the usual amount of ignorance
characteristic of its opponents and the ordinary misrepresenta-
tion of the motives and practice of those who acknowledge their
faith in it, to which we have been so long accustomed. This
letter was fully replied to by several homoeopathic physicians in
SiS!S*Ssr«?* NOTABou. 876
Bsriew, June 1, 1881.
the paper of the following day, and in that of Easter Monday.
The Times correspondent, however, made certain charges against
the character and bona fides of homoeopathic physicians which
the British Homoeopathic Society felt onght to he met in an
aathoritatiye manner, and should not be merely left to be
repudiated by individual practitioners, however well known and
respected they might be.
At the first ordinary meeting of the society, which occurred
after the publication of this correspondence (Thursday, May 5th,)
Dr. EEamilton and Mr. Cameron moved for and obtained the
appointment of a committee to draw up resolutions bearing upon
this point to be submitted to an extraordinary meeting of the
society. This latter meeting, at which an unusually large
number of members attended, took place on the 12th ult. Of
this the following report was drawn up and signed by the
President and Secretary on behalf of the society, and by him
sent to the Times for pubhcation.
Its insertion was, we regret to state, befused : —
** A9 extraordinary meeting of the British Homoeopathic Society
— ^a society consisting exclusively of duly qualified and regis-
tered members of the medical profession — ^was held on Thursday
the 12th inst. to receive the report of a committee appointed at
the ordinary meeting on the 5th, to take into consideration
certain passages in two letters published in the Times newspaper
by '* a correspondent," since the previous ordinary meeting,
Tiz., on the 15th and 18th of April.
The following are the passages referred to : —
** The regular practitioners maintain that there are no homoe-
opaths, and that the whole system has died out some yeturs ago.
Tliey maintain that those who now call themselves homoeopaths
do not differ from ordinary practitioners in anything but in
making a profession of pursuing a particular method of treat-
ment which as a fact they do not pursue, and that the question
is not one of science at all, but simply one of morals. * * * *
The followers of Hahnemann, on the other hand, have been con-
tent to seek a short cut to remunerative practice by ministering
to the ignorant credulity of the vulgar ridi.*'
The following resolutions regarding these statements were
agreed to nem. con, : —
*' That from the structure and wording of the letters referred
to, it being evident that the writer is a medical man, the British
Homoeopathic Society deeply regrets that any member of the
medical profession should have been found capable of so reck-
lessly imputing dishonest conduct to his professional brethren as
this correspondent has done.
376 uoTABiUA. "SS&Srr?^
Beview, June 1« IfiBl.
" That the members of the British Homoeopathic Sodetj^nrfaiie
Hot feeling the occasion to be one on which they are called upon
to defend the scientific character of their therapenties, desire tOi
protest against the statements contained in the foregoing extracts
as utterly nnfomided in fact and impossible of jnstificatLon.
'* Signed on behalf of the British Homoeopathic Society,
*' S. Yeldham, President,
'* RiCHABD Hughes, Hon. Sec."
THE THIRD ANNUAL DRAMATIC PERFORMANCE
IN AID OF THE FUNDS OF THE
LONDON HOMCEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
This Entertainment took place, on the 19th May, at St. George's
Hall, before a distinguished and highly appreciative audience.
At the last moment, we understand, it was found that the
Princess Mary Adelaide, who had graciously intimated an inten-
tion to honour the performance with her presence, would be
unable to be present ; but, with this exception, the patrons of
the hospital were represented. Any performance by the Ama-
teur Company known as the " Thalians ** is sure to be a
histrionic success, and any effort for the good of the hospital,
conducted under the auspices of the energetic Official Manager^
is pretty certain to be satisfactory in its financial aspects. The
performance commenced with a comedietta, by Herman Merivale,
entitled '* Six Months Ago," in which Ediom Bliss, the husband
satiated by the monotony of love in a cottage — which, by the
way, seemed a very charming cottage indeed — ^was capitally
represented by Captain W. Conyers d'Arcy, and the pretty wife,
whose affection and devotion begin to pall from lack of variety,
was effectively represented by Mrs. Conyers d'Arcy. The
languor and non-chalance of the husband, and the passionate
jealousy of the beautiful wife, produced some very effective
scenes. The piece-de-resistance of the evening was the comedy
of '* Alone,** by Palgrave Simpson and Herman Merivale, and a
I more touching story more touchingly rendered it has seldom
I fallen to our lot to see. Colonel ChaUice, a blind man, whoea
I natural irascibility and acrimony, stimulated by his affliction,
, hide a warm and generous heart, and whose horror of the
presence of woman — the result of the cruel elopement of his
I daughter when a school girl — hides a chivalrous tenderness to
the sex, is discovered living in retirement, with no society but
that of an irrespressible toady, Stratten Stirauless, his medical
S5££fto?g%g^ soTABnjA. 877
adviser. Dr. IGchlethwaite, and Mrs. Thornton, the only
womaD who dares approach him, and the only person who really
knows how to manage him. The plot is simple, hut pathetic
in the extreme. Mrs. Thornton, after much diplomacy, intro*
duces, to read to the colonel, a young girl, Maud Trevor, whose
sudden affection for him, and whose emotion in his presence
soon discover her to he his exiled daughter. Her advent is
almost contemporaneous with that of a Captain Cameron, tho
lover with whom she left school, and a series of very
touching scenes and episodes follow ; one of the most exciting
heing at the end of the second act, when the presence of
Captain Cameron is accidentally discovered by the blind Colonel,
who contrives to seize him, and is about to take revenge upon
him when Mrs. Thornton, Dr. Micklethwaite and Stratten
Strauless . opportunely appear and prevent mischief. In the
third act everything becomes clearer, especially the Colonel's
eyesight, which is restored under the skilful treatment of Dr.
Micklethwaite. It transpires that the escape of the ColoneFs
daughter from school was a plot of a wicked and jealous school-
fellow, and the repudiation of her father, which exiled her for
years, to have been quite unjust. Then follows a reconciliation,
the utter discomfiture of Stratten Strauless, and a pretty love
scene between Mrs. Thornton and Dr. Micklethwaite, who of
coarse marry. The acting of Mr. Fourdrinier, as Colonel
Challice, seemed to us perfect, almost too painfully real in its
faithful presentment of a terrible affliction. Captain Conyera
d'Arcy was equally good as the genial, skilful, and kind-hearted
physician. Miss Bosa Kenney displayed complete familiarity with
stage business, and played her somewhat difficult role with good
taste and adequate effect. Mrs. Conyers d'Arcy played with her
usual eclat as the spirited, energetic, and self-willed Mrs. Thorn-
ton. The performance concluded with '^ A Husband in Clover," tho
husband being well played by Mr. H. Walliss, and the SBsthetia
and jealous wife, to the huge merriment of the audience, by
Miss Lucy Boche. The band was composed of amateurs, under
the direction of Mr. A. Dean. One of the features of (he evening
was the programme, printed in very old style, such a bill as may
be seen in the British Museum, bearing the stiff announcements
of " Mr. David Garrick " or " Mr. Qnin.'* As to the pecuniary
results, Mr. Alan E. Chambre, in the dual character of '* Officied
Manager of the Hospital *' and " Honorary Secretary and
Treasurer of the * Thalian ' Amateur Company," announced that
the proceeds of the evening amounted to £110, being £5 in
advance of the proceeds of the performance in 1880, and £dO
in advance of the proceeds in 1879, a statement which waa
received with cheers.
878
NOTABILIA.
Month iy HJOBtnBfljwMB
Bevicnr, Juab i, V&SL.
LIST OP SUBSCRIBERS TO THE INTERNATIONAL
HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION.
£ B. d.
Dr.'A. P. Andenon 1
Br. Bajes 2
Br. Baynes
Br. William BeU
Br. Black
Br. Charles Blackley
Br. Edward Blake
Br. J.G.Blake
Br. Blumberg ,
Br. Blyth
Br. Bodman ,
Br. Bradahaw ,
Br. Brooks ,
Br. Byce Brown ,
Br. Samuel Brown ,
Br. Buck
Br. BnrDett ,
Br. Bnrwood ,
Br. Batcher
Mr. Cameron
Br. Carfrae ,
Br. Cash
Br. Chalmers
Br. Clare
Br. Clarke
Br. A. Clifton
Br. GhBorge Clifton ,
Br. Collins
Br. Cooper
Br. Cronin
Br. Croneher
Br. Bizon
Br. Brury
Br. Brysdale
Br. Bndgeon
Br. W. Ford Bdgelow
Ifr. Engail
Br. Epps
Br, Flint
Br. Galloway
Br. Goldsbrongh
Br. Gonld
Br. GuinesB
Br.Hale
Br. E.Hall
Br. Hamilton
Br. Harris
Br. Hawkes
Dr. Hayle
Br. Hayward
Br. Hewan
Br. Hughes
Br. Samnel Kennedy
Br. William Kenne^
Br. Ker
Br. M'Hwraith
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
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Br. Mackechme
Br. Macintosh
Br. Mahony
Br. Mansell
Br. Markwiok ,
Br. Massy
Br. Matheson
Br. Metcalfe
Br. Millin
Br. John Moore
Br. Samuel Morgan
Br. Morrison ,
Br. H. Nankivell
Mr. J. H. Nankivell
Br, Neild
Br. Nicholson
Mr. Norman
Br. Perkins
Br. Pope
Br. Prater
Br. Proctor
Br. Pordom
Br. Bamsbotham
Mr. Reynolds
Br. E. B. Boche
Br. JohnBoobe
Br. Roth
Br. Sandbeig
Br. William Scott
Br. Scriven
Br. Shaw
Mr. Charles E. Shaw
Br. Shepherd
Br. Shuldham
Br. Smart
Br. Stephens
Br. Sfiles
Br. Stokes
Br. Suss-Hahnemann
Br. Tuckey
Br. Usslier
Br. Wallace
Br. H. Wheeler
Br. WUliam Wheeler
Br. Wielobycki
Br. John Wilde
Br. Percy Wilde
Br. Albert Williams
Br. Eubnlus Williams
Br. Neville Wood
Mr. Thorold Wood
Br. Woodgates
Br. George Wyld
Br. Yeldham .'....
Messrs. Leath <fe Ross 5
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SSSSS^SSrST NOTABILIA. 379
THE *• LANCET " ON HOMCEOPATHY.
Ih the Lancet of the 21st nit. appears a leading article divided
into three sections, and entitled ** The Fallacy of HomcBopathy.'*
We have received it too late to examine it closely this month,
and notice it now merely to congratulate onr contemporary on its
change of tone in treating of this subject. Had homoeopathy
been discussed as it is in this article forty years ago, what our
contemporary styles the ''regrettable alienation and con-
troversy,'* which have occurred, would never have been heard
of. Ahnost for the first time in the history of allopathic medical
journalism homoeopathy is here discussed with a considerable
amount of fairness — indeed, if we excepted the well-known
article by the late Sir John Forbes in the British and Foreign
Medical Beviewy and one in later years by Dr. Boss in The
Practitioner, we might say that this was tiie first occasion in
which homoeopathy had met with fair play in an allopathic
p3riodical.
The questions involved have been frequently discussed in this
and other journals — indeed, the writer would seem to have taken
his cue from an article in The British Journal of Honuxopathy
(vol. XXV.), by Dr. Madden on contraria contrariis curantur.
We shall examine these points in our next number ; meanwhile,
we would observe that tiie principle of similars is one of drug
selection, and by no means is it put forward as an explanation of
drug action — in this light, notwithstanding a good deal of some-
what loosely- expressed writing, it has ever been understood.
Secondly — All experience shows that it is perfectly possible to
predict the usus in morbis of a drug from a knowledge of its
effects on health alone — when the principle of similars is made
use of in directing the prediction.
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE GOVEENORS AND
BUBSCmBERS OF THE LONDON HOMCEOPATHIC
HOSPITAL,
The annual meeting of the friends of this institution took place
in the board room of the Hospital on the 80th of May, the Bight
Hon. Lord Ebury occupying the chair. The report, which was
in every way eminently satisfactory, was adopted, and various
resolutions were passed. We regret that the pressure upon our
space this month prevents our doing more than mention this
meeting. We hope to be able to give full details in our next.
380 HOTABaiA. "S22L=i:s??^*
Review, June 1, 1S81.
PERAMBULATORS.
A PAPEB read to the Philadelphia Medical Society by Dr.
Henry Smith {Phil. Med. Times, January 15th), on ** The Injorioos
Effects of the Constant Use of Baby- Carriages and Bicycles on
the Physical Development of the Yoong," calls attention to a yery
important subject. No one can traverse the streets in onr own
country without observing how gross is the abuse of the peram-
bulator, and that not only for the reason assigned by Dr. Smith
in relation to the very young, but also because it is becoming a
substitute for proper exercise on the part of older children, and
an encouragement to the laziness and neglect of those who have
charge over them. Children perfectly well able to use their limbs
for healthy progression are kept for long periods in a semi-
recumbent posture, and an indisposition to exertion encouraged.
One can understand the convenience of the machine for con-
veying them to a spot where they may alight and romp about ;
but in too many cases the ride in the perambulator is the only
exercise they obtain, and is of course of little or no use to them,
even when it is not mischievous owing to faulty position and a
lowered temperature. The point to which Dr. Smith especially
calls attention is the prevention of the due development of the
muscles which are to provide for the infant's erect position.
** As the power of every muscle is increased by its exercise,
it is an important point in the physical development of children
that this fact (muscular action in the erect posture) should be
impressed on those who control or direct physical education,
especially in infancy. When a child lies down, as it usually does
in a baby-carriage during infancy, it reposes upon an extended
base, and, as the force of gravity is barely felt by it, the muscles
of the spine remain nearly at rest. When a child sits up,
most of its spinal erector muscles are in action, though
varying in intensity. The vertical position, or that in which
an infant sits on its nurse's arm when carried, necessitates a
balancing of the head and upper extremities upon the infanVs
pelvis, with alternate action of the erector spinse muscles and
those of the abdomen that flex the spine by bringing the thorax
towards the pelvis, as well as of those which cause a bending
sideways or give the lateral motion to the body, as the quadratus
lumborum and psoas magnus muscles. Hence, when a child is
carried on the arm, its exercise in preserving its balance or
equilibrium prepares its muscles for the more steady action
demanded of them subsequently in creeping, or more especially
in walking. A child that is carried is therefore being constantly
educated or trained in balancing its head and shoulders, whilst
the abdominal muscles, which here act as flexors of the spine,
also compress the liver and other abdominal viscera, and aid the
^t^S^^ST'^' NOTABILIA. 881
Beriew, June 1, 1881.
peiisialtio aetion of the bowels, as well as the action of respira-
tion. In addition to this, such infants are sooner able to sit
alone, and creep or walk more yigoroosly, than those who, in the
continued supine posture of the baby-carriage, fail to receiye this
jnuscular exercise. • . . Another evil liable to ensue from
the constant use of the baby-carriage is the jarring and concussion
of the delicate brain and spinal cord of the infant, created by
bouncing the carriage over gutters or up and down the kerb-
stones/*— Medical Times and Gazette.
ALLOPATHIC PROVING OF IODINE IN GOITRE.
The following striking passage occurs in Dr. Tanner's Practice of
Medicine, yoL L p. 187. (Sixth edition, 1869):—
'<M. Chatin mentions that in Savoy there are two villages,
divided from each other only by a narrow ravine. Both villages
-stand on rock and soil of the same nature, their elevation is the
'Same, and they seem subjected to the same influences. But in
cne goitre prevails, while in the other it is unknown; in the first,
the water supplying it contains a trace of iodine: in the second,
there is no iodine in the water."
BRITISH HOMCEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
The Ninth Ordinary Meeting of the present Session will be held
on Thursday, Jxme 2nd, 1881, at seven o*clock. At eight
o*clock. Dr. Hale, of London, will exhibit a specimen of Perfo-
rating Ulcer of the Duodenum ; and a paper will be read by
Mr. Mabsblt, late of Melbourne, entitled, Bemimscences of-
Australian Practice, jphe Annual Assembly is announced to be
held this year on the 22nd and 28rd of June.
EXTRACTING TEETH WITHOUT CONSENT.
A MEW branch of bui^lary has been opened in Chicago. A
young lady went to a dentist*s shop to have five teeth extracted.
Having put her under the influence of gas, he drew fifteen teeth
-from her upper jaw. She sued him for damages, he pleading
that the teeth all needed pulling out. She denied this, but as
the dentist had the teeth she could not prove her case, and the
•dentist would not produce them in court. Therefore the jury,
evidently thinking that the dentist knew better than the young
882 CORRBSPOHDBNCE. *S^=iS:S?»t^
Beriew, June 1, 1881.
woman whether her teeth needed polling oat or not, disagreed,
and she could not recover. Hers, it appears, was not the only
instance. Several joong persons had been subjected to the
same involuntary dental bereavement in the same establishment,
with a view to compelling the victims to buy false teeth. — 2ie»
York Med, Record, April 80.
CORRESPONDENCE,
INTERNATIONAL HOMOEOPATHIC CONVENTION.
To the Editors of the Monthly Homcsopathic Review,
Gentlemen, — ^I have addressed the subjoined letter to several
of the leading homoeopathic journals in the United States. I
would ask you to allow me to bring it xmder the notice of our
colleagues at home, from whom also I shall be glad to receire
names of subscribers.
As, moreover, it is possible (though not, I think, probable)
that the subscription list may £ail to cover the total cost of pub-
lishing our Transactions, it is thought well that a Gkiarantee
Fund should be instituted, to provide for this eventuality. Sack
a fund was proposed by Dr. Bayes in regard of the expenses of
the meetings, and some names were given for it. This is fotmd
unnecessary ; but I shall be pleased to hear that the same sums
may be reckoned upon for the Transactions, and that others will
come forward to secure against pecuniary loss those who are
responsible for the issue of them.
All communications on this subject should be addressed tome.
I am^ Gentlemen,
Yours very fioithfully,
BiCHABD Hughes.
86, Sillwood Road, Brighton,
May 16th, 1881.
To the Editor of the-
When the International Convention, now about to be held,
was first planned, it was a serious question how to provide for
the expense of publishing its Transactions, I wrote upon the
subject to the lamented President of the first Convention,
Dr. Carroll Dunham, and the following is a portion of his reply :—
SS^j^STar* COBKBSPONDENCB. 888
Bsview, Jnme 1. IBBl.
" As to the question yon put concerning the means of meeting
the cost of publishing the Transactions of 1881, 1 reply, without
hesitation, Uiat it would be eminently proper to ask a subscription
that would be sure to fully cover tiie cost of the volume, from
every individual who desires a copy.
** As you justly remark, it was quite di£ferent with us. There
could have been no expectation of more than a handful of
delegates from abroad. The expenses must of necessity be
borne by ourselves, and we could easily do it by means of our
numbers. To make it sure, we resolved the Institute into the
Convention, for the purpose, not only of using its machinery,
but of having also at command its yearly income, since the
Convention Transactions would take Uie place of the Institute
volume. Tou have, I believe, nothing which in these respects
corresponds to the Institute. Moreover, I hope — as you do-
that from America and the Continent of Europe there may
come as many delegates as England herself can furnish, and the
meeting may be a ' World's Convention * not simply by virtue
of papers and reports, but through the coming together of repre-
sentative men. Do not determine too soon the amount to be
asked for the volume, lest you get it below cost. The expenses
of the meeting and incidentals wiU be all that Britain could
reasonably be asked to furnish, and these may amount to a con-
siderable sum.''
In accordance with these views, it was determined, as part of
our scheme of working, " that the expenses of printing the
Transactions be defrayed by a subscription from all who desire
to possess a copy of the volume." A subscription list will be
opened at the meeting, for those who are able to attend ; but for
the many who must perforce be absent, but who would like to
support ns, and give tiiemselves the advantage of possessing our
Transactions, I ask of your courtesy the admission of this letter.
I shall be glad to receive the names and addresses of subscribers
as soon as possible, that the total number on whom we can
count may be known. The exact cost of the volume cannot be
reckoned till then, but it is not likely to exceed ten shillings of
our money ; and it will probably contain between 600 and 700
pages of matter.
I am.
Yours very faithfully,
BiCHABD HUGHBS,
86, SiUwood Bead, Brighton, President-elect.
May 12th, 1881.
884 CORRESPONDENTS. "^S^r^taJ^Mn!
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
«% We eatmot undertake to return r^eeted manuscripU.
Contribaton and Correspondents are requested to notice the alteration
in the address of one of the Editors of this lUview>
Dr. Blakb'b pamphlet ^rill be noticed in onr next, onr space being orer*
filled this month. The sabject of Dr. Berbidob's letter being disposed of
last month, we deem it mmecessaiy to re-open it.
Gommnnications, Ac, haye been received from Dr. E. Bun
^London); Dr. Masst (Bedhill); Dr. Bates (Brighton); Mr. Chambu
(London); Mr. Cbobs (London); Dr. A. Esknkdt (Blackheath);
Mr. Matmhat.!. (New Cross) ; Dr. Berbisoe (London).
BOOKS RECEIVED.
A Guide to the Clinical Examination of Patiente, and the Diagnoeii of
Diuate. By Kichard Hagen, M.D. Translated by G. E. Gramm, HJ).
New York : Boericke & Taifel.
Sewage Poisoning, its Causes amd Cure. By Edward T. Blake, H.D.
Second Edition. E. and F. N. Spon.
A Statistical Report of Two hundred and fifty-two Cases of Inebrietif,
By Lewis D. Mason, M.D.
Cbnstitutiont Bye-laws, and lAst of Members of the Boston Homaopathie
Medical Society. 1881.
The Chemist and Druggist.
Monthly Magazine of Pharmacy.
Homctopathic World.
North American Journal of Homaopatky.
New England Medical Oazette.
The American Observer.
The United States Medical Investigator.
The New York Medical Times.
The Medical Call.
The Medical Advance.
Bulletin de la Soc. Mid. de France.
Bibliothique Homaopathique,
L*Art Medical.
Revue Homaopathique Beige.
AUgemeine Homdopathisehe Zeitung.
MomSopathische Rundschau.
El Criterio Medico.
Papers, Dispensary Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. Pope, 21, Henrietta Street, Cavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D. Ptcb
BaowM, 29, Seymonr Street, Portman Square, W. Advertisement and
Business Communications to be sent to Messrs. E. Gouuo ^ Son,
59, Moorgate Street, £.C.
ISS^Tj^TSbl*" "THE LANCBT AND aOMOBOPATHY. 885
THE MONTHLY
HOMCEOPATHIC REVIEW
THE LANCET AND HOMOEOPATHY.
At.t. things come to him who waits. This is a proverb
which is often quoted now-a-days, and it might well be the
motto for homcBopaths to adopt. It is the history of all
great truths, and of those especially which have ultimately
received the most universal reception, that they have
in their early days met with vehement opposition. Those
who know that they are really truths Qan afford to wait
complacently, even though they may not at the time relish
the consequences which adhesion to an unpopular creed
may entail. So it is with homoeopathy. The opposition it
has so long met with from the hands of those who ought to
know better, though unpleasant at the time in its personal
consequences, must die out. We have only to wait patiently,
hold on our way, and not bo tempted to swerve from our
&ith, to find ourselves victorious, and our maligned
doctrines admitted as truth by those very men who have
done their best to stamp them out. We have for some
years back bad at intervals to notice with satisfaction
unmistakable signs of the dawn appearing after the long
Areaiy night of allopathic domination ; we have seen men
Na 7» Vol. 26, 2 c
886 THE LANCET AND HOMOBOPATHT. "^BSSli^SnST
in position in the profession adopting our Tiews and treat-
ment openly, provided it can be done withoat saying that
such are hom<Bopathic views and treatment, and we know
that there is mnch more of the leaven of homcaopathy
quietly leavening the whole of the old school, in the case or
men who do not come to the front, than is generally
believed to exist. Many have of late years been quietly
buying our books, and practising accordingly, or asking the
aid of those who already know homoaopathy, what are its
doctrines, and how they may best become acquainted with
its practice. Such a state of matters is pregnant with mean-
ing for the future, and we have rejoiced to watch the progress
of the truth, albeit in this secret manner. We feel as
certain as we can be of anything in this world, that the
general and authoritative adoption of homoBopathy as the
great rule of treatment is only a question of time, while
we amuse ourselves by speculating how long it will be
before this consunmiation shall arrive. We were, however,
hardly prepared for the remarkable article which appeared
from the editorial pen of the Lancet^ on May 21, 1881.
The Lancet has been hitherto known as the type of un-
compromising opposition to homoeopathy, to those who
practise it, and to anything savouring, openly at least, of the
^' accursed thing.'' Our surprise, then, was only equalled
by our pleasure when we read this article. We i think we
are not wrong in saying that it is the first article in that
journal since homcaopathy has been discussed, in which
the subject has been dealt with in a fair, courteous, and
argumentative manner. It is a new thing to hear our-
selves spoken of as the ** honest and intelligent thinkers
now connected with the homoeopathic schooly" and we
are thankful for small mercies !
But let us look more closely at this article in the La$ieiU
The editor begins as follows :— *' In the course of tbe
IBSSrwE^rSw?^ THE LANCET AND HOMCBOPATHY, 387
recent eontroversy arising ont of consideration of ethical
propriety in regard to the consultations of orthodox pro-
lessors of scientific medicine with actual or reputed
homcBopathistSy nothing has so much surprised us as the
inexplicable ignorance which prevails^ not only throughout
the lay community, but among medical men, as to the
nature and effect of * homoBopathy * and ' allopathy ' as
medical theories." Such are precisely our sentiments, and
we have expressed, till we are almost tired of doing it, our
surprise that in this nineteenth century the majority of the
medical profession — a profession supposed to be liberal,
and whose very raison d'etre is the cure of disease, should
manifest, and this without the least shame, such profound
ignorance of what homoeopathy even means, as we know is
the case, and as the editor of the Lancet admits with
astonishment. However, it is never too late to mend, and
80 the LaTicet proceeds to explain to its readers what
homoeopathy means. Nothing like beginning at the ABC*
The explanation is a very correct one, and so we quote it^
that our readers may see that the editor can afford for once
not to misrepresent the doctrines of Hahnemann. " The
homoeopathist says, ^ I select a drug which if given in a
large dose to a healthy person would produce symptoms
like those of the case I am seeking to cure, and I give this
drug, when found, in a small dose.' The ordinary
practitioner asks, ' Why do you not give it in a large dose ? '
The homoeopathist replies, 'Because it would increase
the symptoms I desire to remedy.' In short, the
homoeopathist avoids the dose in which the remedy he
selects is homoeopathic to the disease, and gives it in a
smaller dose." And here comes in the gist of the article.
The editor flEuicies he has made a discovery^ which shall
henceforth be the finishing blow to ** homoeopathy." This
diflcoyery is what is popularly known as a " mare's nest.''
9 0—9
' 888 THE LANCET AND HOMCBOPATHT. ^SSSr^^S??^!
t
His argnment is that there is a great " fallacy" in bomoB-
opatty, the fallacy being as follows : — The symptoms pro-
daced by the large dose in health are those which are
iimUar to the symptoms of disease, or homoeopathic to
them ; the dose given to cure is a dose less than will pro-
duce those symptoms (in fcase of aggravation), and as we
Imow that the effects of the large and small dose are pre-
cisely the reverse of one another, the small dose cures by
producing the reverse effect of the large one, or the reverse
effect of the disease symptoms. Ergo, this is not
homoeopathy, since it is the large dose which is similar
or homoeopathic to the disease, and not the small one,
which is its opposite! In other words, the curative
or small dose, really acts on the principle of corUraria,
while the large dose is the simile to the disease. The
editor concludes the second section of his article thus:
*' Our immediate purpose is to demonstrate that the
•homoeopath does not give his drug on homoeopathic
principles, and cannot claim it as homoeopathic, because
he employs it in doses which do not produce effects
like, but widely unlike, the symptoms of the disease
he seeks to cure. It follows that, so far as the action
of remedies is concerned, homoDopathy is a misnomer,
and involves a fallacy." All this " fallacy," then, is in the
name. Well might we quote the poet, "What's in a
name ? " Homoeopathy, by any other name (provided it
it is an equally good one), would smell as sweet ; and if the
editor prefers to follow an American brother, who having
recently " discovered " the truth of homoeopathy, and the
necessity for giving the small dose, announces it as a new
fiystem, under the name of " micropathy," — well and good;
we prefer the good old name of homoeopathy, as expressing
in a word all we intend to teach, and as, moreover, being
strictly correct. Is not a drug, which can not only produce
S^^SuiS^ THE LANCET AHD HOMCEOPATHY. 889
symptoms siimlar to the disease, bat can also cure it by
Yirtne of this veiy relation of similarity, ** homoeopathic " to
the disease in the fullest sense ? *^ Homcdopathy " means
nothing, if it does not mean that the drag has a cnrative,
as well as a pathogenetic relation to the disease. The
mere fact that drugs will produce disease, has been known
for generations, and what necessity would there have
been for any word at all to express this fact? It was
only when Hahnemann discovered that disease and drugs
had this uniform double relation, and announced his
system of treatment based on this relation, that a word
became necessary to express it, and whether the small or
earatiye dose acts after the manner of contraria or not,
''homoeopathy" expresses better than any other word
invented, the great fact of the curative relation to disease
which a drug possesses, which can produce a similar state
in health when administered in a large dose. It expresses
concisely that the remedial drug is to be sought for in one
that can produce this similar state of disease. And for the
editor of the Lancet to argue in sober sense that therefore
" homoeopathy is a misnomer, and involves a fallacy," is
mere childish play on words, while the main question of the
truth of the facts is at issue. " We shall be curious," the
editor of the Laticet adds, '' to see how the homoeopathists
attempt to answer this objection." We have just expressed
our contempt for the ** objection " as an argument against
the correctness of the word " homoeopathy." But on the
interesting question of how the minute dose of a homoe-
pathic medicine acts, we have no reply to give to the
" objection " (if it is one) of the contraria action of the
minute dose, than that we entirely agree with the editor's
explanation. We are, hoiwever, sony to rob him of the
notion that this explanation is a novel one, and con-
sequently of his being the hero who first gave the homoeo-
890 THE LANCET AND HOMCEOPATHY. ^^SS^J^^u^
paths the correot notion of how their own lemedies act.
But truth must be adhered to, at the risk of offending the
fine feelings of the editor of the Lancet. If he will take
the trouble to refer to the work on Pathology, published in
Edinburgh in 1842, by the distinguished Fletcheb — a
work far in advance of its day, he will find him, when dis-
cussing the theory of the action of homodopathic remedies,
saying: "They cure, not by the stronger, but by the
opposite impression which they make ; so that homoeopathic
medicines, after all, operate on the antipathic principle."
Dr. Dudgeon, in his able lectures on " The Theoiy and
Practice of Homoeopathy," delivered in 1861, and published
in 1802, expresses his belief in the same views. Thus
(p. Ill) he says: "Whilst this (the law of similars)
expresses only the rule for the selection of the remedy, the
actual curative process is rather contr aria cantr arm, for the
impression we effect with our remedial agent is the opposite
of the existing condition of the diseased part." Since then,
and especially in the last few years, this view has been
strongly advocated by Madden, Sharp, and other writers in
our journals, and is adopted by the majority of homoeopaths
as the probably correct explanation of the modus operandi
of the small dose. If, therefore, the editor of the Lancet,
while deploring the '^ inexplicable ignorance " which
prevails regarding homoeopathy, had but taken the trouble
to look up our journals for the last ten years, he would
have found his " argument " actually stated by ourselves
and adopted. We are sincerely glad that the subject of
the action of homoeopathic remedies is beginning to be so
far understood, that now there will be no excuse for
ignorance on these points.
Having now disposed of the main argument of the
Lancet article, and found that instead of having to
stand on the defensive, we can peacefully smile at the
bSS^j^mS^ the lancet and hohceopatht. 391
ipare's nest which the editor has discovered, let as take up
flome details in the article, and m^ke a few ninning
•comments thereon, in the way of agreement with some, and
correction of others.
After the passage we quoted in the early part of this
paper, the editor goes on, ''Now every one knows that
the ' effects ' of medicines differ with the doses in which
they are exhibited, giving rise to symptoms which are
seemingly contradictory in large and small doses
respectively." It is certainly most satisfactory to hear
from this authority that "now every one knows*' this
fact. We shall not ask how long ago it was that no one
knew it, except homoBopaths,.or what were the grave looks
iusumed at Dr. Boas' articles in the Practitioner, when he,
a couple of years ago, ventured to state that medicines had
a double action. The editor proceeds, " It follows that the
so-called homoeopath does not practise on the principle
nmiUa HmiUbtui curantur (or curentur). He only resorts
to the principle embodied in that aphorism in selecting
his drug, and by so doing goes a roundabout way to
discover the ]:emedy, which lies close at hand, and
which the ' allopath,' if there were allopaths (or anti-
paths) might claim as acting on the principle contraria
-contrarm cura/ni^r.*^ Perhaps the editor will kindly
lavour us with a dissertation on the interesting difference
between '' tweedledum " and " tweedledee." If a man selects
the remedy for the cure of disease on a definitive and
fltated principle, he may surely, without much stretch of
imagination or metaphorical language, be said to practise
•on this principle. The homoeopath who practises on the
principle of 9imiUa, instead of adopting a roundabout
lyiethod for discovering his remedy, takes the shortest cut
to that end that we have ever heard of* Find out the
symptoms produced by a large dose of a remedy on the
S92 THE LANCET AND HOMEOPATHY. ^^S^^^j^"^^
healthy body, and if these resemble any known ailment,
why there yon are. What could be simpler and le8»
roondabont than this ?
But the joke becomes immense when the editor tells us
that while the homoeopaths take this roundabout mode of
arriving at the proper remedy , it actually '' lies close at-
hand '' to the allopath, and that he might claim it as his-
own if he liked. We are sure he must feel under deep
obligations to the Lancet for informing him of this fact,
for until now, not only did he not know that he was in
such near proximity to homoeopathy, but if we had told
him any such wholesome truths, he would have vehemently
denied the soft impeachment, and as it is, he not only
would do anything rather than seem to touch the unclean
thing, but cuts his professional brethren who have found
the jewel and prize it, and in fact, as the editor of the
Lancet admits with surprise, he is in ^'inexplicable
ignorance " of the whole thing. The editor of the Lancet
in this paragraph is really too severe on the feelings of his
confreres in thus informing them that, after all, the hated
homoeopathic remedy is close to their hand, and that they
noiay claim it as their own if they like, and this after so
many years of virulent abuse of this very system. We feel
inclined to give the Lancet that excellent advice which
Major Wellington de Boots gave to the gentleman who-
chastised him, *^ Next time you want to pull a gentleman's
nose, draw it mild"
The editor of the Lancet next proceeds to give illuslTS-
tions of the double action of medicines, that is, of the cure,
by small doses, of symptoms similar to those produced by*
large doses. His choice is excellent, and we have no need
to supplement it. He names aconite, nva vomica, alcohol^
ipecacibanha, opium, cathartics and oonstipators (if we may
com such a word) ; and yet, with these important admis-
jS^j^a^S^ the lancet and homceopatht* 393
sioBBy he takes to task the homoBopath who ** olaims these
as homcBopathic remedies/' on the ground that ^' he seeks
to conTict the ordinary practitioner of medicine because he,
too, recommends it/' There would be no '* conviction " in
the matter, if the opposition to this very system of treat-
ment which the Lancet here illustrates and approves of,
were not carried on to the point of " Boycotting ; " but we
do '' convict" any man of the old school of practising
homc9opathy, if he gives one of the above-named remedies,
or any other in small doses to cure a state of disease
resembling the effects of large doses of the same drug. We
have frequently had occasion thus to '* convict " of bomceo-
pathy EiKOBB, Phillips, Babtholow, Wood, Leabbd,
Thobowgood, Mubbell, and many others, and we shall
continue to do so till the necessity for such '' conviction " dis-
appears in the general acknowledgment of the homoeopathic
system of treatment. But, it may be asked, how does the
editor of the Lancet get out of the difficulty, if he accepts
aach treatment as correct and scientific, and yet objects to
being ''convicted" of homoeopathy. He says ''scientific
explanations of the way in which these apparently con*'
tradictory effects are produced by the same drug in different
doses are ready to hand, but they have no place in
this argument." And yet, only a few sentences before^
he says, " Now, how do nux vomica, and its preparations,
act in small doses? Why, as tonics to the muscular
system. In short, the natural effects of a drug which is &
powerful excitant when given in lai^e doses, is that of a
gentle and restorative or strength-giving stimulant in small
doses;" and of ipecacuanha he says, ^'a large dose of
ipecacuanha will produce vomiting, while a small dose will
act gently, and restore the tone of the organ, thus allaying^
vomiting." So the late Anstie, when reviewing in th»
JhracOtioner Bingbb's first edition, said that ipecacuanha^
894 THE LANCET AED HOMCBOPATHY. ^''SSS^SSSr^^.
did not ihuB act homcBopathioilly, but as a ' ^ tonio to the vaso-
motor nerres of the Btomach/' Sorely, here are would-be
** scientific explanations," which the editor has just told as
liad no place in his argoment, and weqnite agree with hisL
Snch explanations inyolve theory; they maybe right or
wrong, bat right or wrong, they are mere bUnds when put
forth in reply to the question of the truth of the law of
fiimilars. The real point is. Do medicines which pro-
duce certain marked symptoms when given to a healthy
person in lai^e doses, cure similar symptoms of disease in
Bmall doses? If they do, then homoeopathy, and its
guiding law are true. We may theorise as we please as to
the mode of action of the small dose, but such theories in
no way alter the Sm^ which we have all along contended for,
and which the Lancet at length admits as true, that
medicines do have this double relation of producing aod
curing disease. Let us have no more of such misleading
explanations, vnless they are given out simultaneously with
the full admission of the facts they are intended to explain.
In the 8rd section of the article, the Lancet commences,
''We shall be curious to see how the homoeopathists
attempt to answer this objection. If they are honest men,
they must confess that we are right, and that the homcBO-
pathy of their system concerns only the mode of selecting
drugs, not their action." The gauntlet thus thrown down
was taken up by Drs. Dudgeon, NANEivEUi, and Dtgb
Bbown, whose letters were inserted on June 11th, three
weeks after the publication of the Lancet article. They
flU agree, and we believe, reflect the views of homcsopathio
practitioners in general, in repeating what is to be found
over and over again in our journals, that the fqphorism,
^imilia mniUbus curawtur^ ''is simply a guide to the
selection of the medicine," or as the Lancet very correctly
^uts it, " concerns only the mode of selecting drugs, not
SriS^^TSS?*'' THE LANOET AND HOMCEOPATHY. 896
the action." Here is its great value. It only states a
&ct, leaving theory as to the explanation of fiacts as a
matter of secondary importance, one on which difference of
opinion may and does exist.
" Should they take this ground," says the editor, " we
shall then have to show that it, too, is untenable, because
the selection of a drug by an inverse process of induction
from its supposed effects can never be a sure or safe guide
to its use." It will be very difficult for the editor to
^'show" this. It is, in fact, purely a matter for experiment*
Try if it is a sure and safe guide, and each one can and
must do this for himself. HomcBopaths have done so,
and find daily increasing evidence that it is a very sure
and safe guide. Argument on this point without ex-
periment is useless.
'^ Moreover," he proceeds, '4t is unscientific to speak of a
drug as producing 'effects' or 'symptoms' on the organism.
In studying the properties of a medicine, it is always tried on
the healthy, and the student of therapy knows well that there
is nothing mysterious in the seemingly contradictory effects
of different doses of the same substance, seeing that the
so-called ' effects ' of a drug are the changes of state or
modification of function which take place in the organ-
ism under its infiuence or with its aid. The effects
are not located in the drug ! (sic) Before we can predict
«ny property of a drug, we must take into account the
properties of the organic state and functions with which it
is brought into relation." Now, this is mere child's play
^-the ex cathedrd enunciation of truisms. Who ever said
that the effects of a drug were located in it ? or that they
will produce these *' effects " without coming into contact
with the tissues of the body? It is perfectly scien-
tific to speak of a drug producing effects or symp-
ioms, and to deny this is a mere perversion of
896 THE LANCET AKD HOHCEOPATHY. ^'a^fjSSaw^
language. If a man takes an oonise of ipectuMcmha irtne,
and he forthwith vomitSi is any one bo left to himself
as to say that it is unscientific to state that the yomiting is
the effect of the ipecacuanha t If such is science, save us
from it. In the paragraph just quoted, it will he observed
that the Lancet says that " in studying the properties of
a medicine, it is always tried on the healthy." This state-
ment will rather astonish our readers. This plan is alwaj»
adopted in homceopathy, and is one of the essentials of a
yaluable Materia Medica, but while the allopaths now-a-days
admit that this is necessary, the great cry is that it is not
done, and still remains the great deinderatum^ accountings
in a great measure, in Dr. Andbew Clabk's opinion, for
the backward state of old-school therapeutics. *^ It foUows,'"
proceeds the Lancet, ** that the only rc^tional way to try a
drug is first in health and then in disease." Precisely so.
We are here fully at one. But We join issue with him in
his next sentences : " In short, it is not possible to predict
the * effect ' which will follow its use until we have actually
tested it, first on a healthy and then on a morbid organism.
The practice of selecting remedies on any principle or
theory of their mode of action in health alone, is manifestly
an affectation of the impracticable." We mmntpftin that it
is not only possible thus to predict the curative action of a
drug when once we know its effects in health, but it is
constantly done by us. And this is one of the chief charms
of homoeopathy, (xiven the effects of any new drag in
health, and we shall tell for what it will do in disease. We
do not waste time and energy in trying a drug in every
conceivable form of disease till the right path is hit upony
but we go straight to our point, and give the drug in a case
where symptoms similar to the pathogenetic effects of the
drug are present, and we know what will be the result.
In such a way, TTalmA^i^ni^ ^^as able to predict what would
2!^jSnfi8S^ THE LANOBT AND HOMOBOPATHY. 397
1)0 the best remedies for cholera, before he had seen a single
case. In such a way, of late years, we have been able to
*^ predict " that apomorphia woold prove a most valuable
remedy in sickness ; that chloral would cure urticaria, &ۥ,
and that jo^oraiult would benefit the night-sweats of phthisis;
all which "predictions" were fulfilled as we knew they
would be.
The editor of the Lancet then concludes as follows,
"We venture to suggest for the consideration of honest
and intelligent thinkers now connected with the homoeo-
pathic school, whether a recognition of the truth of our
reasoning, and a consequent repudiation of the errors
exposed, would not afibrd a timely occasion for re-
concilement with the medical profession, on grounds
welcome to both parties in this regrettable alienation and
controversy." We have agreed with the editor in many
points; there have been no errors exposed, and conse-
quently none to repudiate, and we shall be delighted
to assist in healing the professional breach "on grounds
welcome to both parties," But, unfortunately, the right
hand of friendship thus offered is soon withdrawn. The
editor, we presume, has found that he has gone too far for
the tastes of his subscribers, who cannot swallow this
homoeopathic pill so easily as he has done. The trades-
union will not allow it. So, in the Lancet of June 11th,
the same number in which the three replies are inserted,
we find the following precious editorial remarks, which
we must quote entire : —
" * HOMCEOPATHIG REMEDIES' DO NOT ACT
HOMCEOPATHICALLY.
" The medical profession and the public will be interested
to learn, on the highest authority, that homoBopaths do
not themselves believe that what are called * homoeopathic
remedies ' act homceopathically. It seems that no homoo-
opathist has of late years even pretended that the drugs he
employs cure disease on the principle similia ahnilibiLB
curantur / This dogma is simply a statement of the so-
called ' principle ' on which the homoeopathist selects his
remedies. This is obviously a minor consideration, and
one in which the public has little, if any, interest.
What the patients of homoeopathic practitioners expect
898 THE LANCET AND HOMCEOPATHT. ^B^.^Hfi^
from these gentiemen, and fee them for, is ' homoB-
pathic treatment It is a matter of. perfect indifference
to the sick man or his friends how the physician selects his
drugs. The only practical question is how he treats his
cases, and in what manner the drugs act* Haying elicited
a frank confession of the &ct8 as to the action of drugs,
we can only appeal to honest men still connected with thi&
so-called 'homoeopathic school,' to abandon openly a
position which they admit does not exist, and which
is« therefore, only a name — full of meaning to the lay
public, but of no significance to themselves. We do not
wish to speak strongly on the subject, but it is certainly
the reverse of candid to retain a name which means
nothing and deludes the public. With the publication of
the letters, which appear in another colunm, the discus-
sion must end. The truth is now at length before our
readers on the admission of leading homoeopathists, and
the only possible inferences are writ large and plain."
What shall we say of this precious paragraph ? After
the original article of the editor, which we have criticised
in this paper, and the replies by Drs. Dudgeon, Nankiyell,
and Dyoe Bbown, we should fancy that the adherents
of the old school must consider such remarks a piece of
sheer impertinence. They are so utterly ridiculous that
the subscribers to the Lancet must be of different mental
calibre to what is generally supposed, if they are taken in
by them, or are considered by them as other than insane.
They will not bear sober argument. The best reply to
them is to print them entire, as we have done, and leave
them. Patients will hear with astonishment that the
Lancet consider them such idiots as to believe that it is a
matter of indifference to them or their friends how the
physician selects his drugs.
For ourselves, we can hardly believe that the writer of
the first article is the author of these last observations.
They are probably the result of a trades-union conclave,
and we regret to find that such a conclusion of an all-
important subject should be possible in the year of
grace, 1881.
The editor of the Lancet cannot now recall his first
article, or suppress the replies. They will bear their froit,
and we are quite ready to wait as complacently as we hsTd
ever done.
SSSfjWS^* OK PHTTOLAOOA. 899
ON PHYTOLACCAJ'
£t Alfred C. Pope, M.D.
Lecturer on Materia Kedica at the London School of HonuBopathy.
The Phytolacca decandra^ belonging to the natural order
Phytolacca^ea, is a plant some six to nine feet high, found
in the United States of America and also in the South of
Europe and in the Barbary States. The parts used in
medicine are the roots and the berries, of which the latter
would seem to be the more active in medicinal properties.
The root is large, often exceeding a man's leg in thickness,
and covered wiUi a brownish bark. The berries when
young are greenish, but become purple after ripening.
The period of flowering is autumn.
All our knowledge of the action of this plant is derived
from provings made by our American colleagues, and from
cases of poisoning which have occurred in the United
States. It was introduced into medicine, I believe, by that
indefatigable student of Materia Medica, Dr. E. M. Hale
of Chicago. It is a drug which appears to have been
exceptionally well proved on the human subject, exhibiting
an action of a very powerful character, and giving rise
to morbid conditions of considerable importance. Never-
theless, it has not, at any rate in England, been studied
with the care necessary to that frequent use, which might,
I think, be advantageously made of it.
It is a traditional remedy in the Western States of
America in many chronic diseases among human beings,
and also in inflammation of the udders in mares and cows.
The cases of poisoning, and the various experiments in
corpore sano which have been made with it, show that it
influences the cerebro- spinal system, the mucous mem-
brane of the gastro-intestinal tract, and slightly that of the
respiratoiy organs, the skin, periosteum, and glands, while
it also irritates to some extent the male sexual organs.
How widely its influence extends, and how various the
tissues it irritates, this brief summary will show you.
It is essentially a tissue-irritant. Violent as is its
action on the stomach and intestines, severe as are the
pain and vomiting it excites, little or no active fever is
produced by it. With small doses there is some slight
increase of heat, but when the quantity taken has been
♦A Laotorfl drtitwed at th» London Behool ol HoniOBopathy,Febroagy, ie81«
400 ON PHYTOLACCA. ^'sS^^^Tm.
considerable, . col^ess, prostration, and more or leBS
profuse perspiration manifest the profoundly depressing
influence it has upon' the organism.
The most striking effects to which it gives rise consist
of inflammation in the throat, stomach, and intestines,
convulsions of a tetanic character, and a peculiar, severe,
and enduring inflammation of the skin.
In going now more into detail, I will first of all describe
the kind of headache which characterises the general
action of Phytolacca.
With a marked indifference to ordinary sources of
interest, there are vertigo — ^generally associated with
•nausea — a dull heavy feeling in the head, with sickness, a
sore pain in the head, especially in the temporal region, a
sensation of soreness in the interior of the head. A doll
heavy pain in the forehead is descnbed by the prover.
Dr. Burt, as being a constant symptom. Dull pressing
pain in the forehead, accompanied by slight nausea, with
cool perspiration on the forehead and slight nausea. One
sided pain just above the eyebrows, with sickness of the
.stomach ; pressure on the temples and constrictive feeling
at the precordia, like the sensation that precedes sea-
sickness ; pressure and bruised sensation at the top of the
head ; dull bruised pain at the occiput.
These symptoms are such as have marked not one case
of poisoning, or one set of experiments, but they recur
repeatedly in the analysis of numerous cases or experi-
ments. They show, I think, clearly enough, the intimate
connection of the headache with the gastric derangement
the drug produces, to which I shall draw your attention
presently. It is a reflected, a sympathetic headache, not
'one dependent upon a primarily disturbed state of the brain
or its meninges.
Hence you will often find Phytolacca to be indicated and
consequently useful in the treatment of that too often
intractable disorder known as sick-headache.
Before passing to the action ofphytolacca on the throat,
I will briefly describe its influence upon the eyes.
The sunken appearance of the eyeballs and the livid
circles around them, are part and parcel of the general con-
stitutional disturbance — one of the indications of general
prostration, and have no strictly local significance. Bnt
.beyond this we find ^ sense of smarting in. theoejebaUs^ a
iES22rSi?rf^* ON PHYTOLACCA. 401
Berisw, July 1, 1881.
feeling as if sand or grit were between the lid and the ball.
The eyes ache, and are sore.
These symptoms reflect a certain degree of catarrhal
inflammation. The tarsi are more distinctly inflamed.
Thus, in one man 24 years of age poisoned by eating the
grated root in mistake for horseradish, the lids felt as if
granulated, and the tarsal edges had a scalded hot feeling
as if they were raw. In another instance, the eyelids were
agglutinated and oedematous for two days. The eyelids are
also described as being sore.
Drs. Allen and Norton of the New York Ophthalmic
Hospital say that Phytolacca has been employed with some
success in ameliorating, if not curing such malignant
ulcers of the lids as lupus epithelioma, &c. As an
illustration they refer to a case of suppurative choroiditis
(paDophthalmitis) which occurred i^ the clinique of
Dr. Liebold, in the right eye of a child after a needle
operation for cataract. The lids were enormously swollen,
very hard and red, the conjunctiva was chemosed, the
anterior chamber filled with pus, and the cornea was
tending towards suppuration, the child pale, weak and
restless. Phytolacca externally and internally was £^iven
with marked reUef. the inflammatory sympi^ms 4iaiy
subsiding under its employment.
Further still, we find that phytolacca gives rise to con-
siderable lachrymation, and in the case of poisoning^
referred to just now, when agglutination of the eyelids
occurred, there was also a disturbance of vision. Not only
two, but four and five reduplications of an object were
apparent ; the objects whether double, triple, or otherwise^
were in the same horizontal plane ; the diplopia grew
worse in the evening, and again three or four reduplica-
tions were visible on the following day ; similar symptoms
recurred on each of the two following days. In other
cases we find vision to be obscure and light to be painful.
The catarrhal like state, which we have seen phytolacca
to produce in the conjunctiva, is also manifested in the
Schneiderian membrane. Fluent coryza, nasal obstruction^
and a tickling sensation in the nostrils have frequently
been noticed. One prover describes the following group of
symptoms, showing the continuity of irritation. " He first
felt a burning sensation in the nose, then dryness in the
throat, which was soon followed by soreness ; then a watery
Ko. 7, YoL 86. 3d
402 ON PHYTOLACCA. ^"SSSL^^S??^
Beview, July 1, IflBL
discharge from the nostrils^ which increased until the nose
became stuffed."
The tongue is coated white, or is yellow and dry and
swollen — ^the tip is red, and there is much pain at the root
of the tongue, extending down the fauces. The soft palate
and tonsils are swollen and congested; small ulcers are
noticed on the inside of the right cheek, and there is a
greatly-increased secretion of ssdiva with a metallic like
taste in the mouth.
The throat is red, sore, and swollen, with a thick, white,
yellow mucus about the fauces. In several other instances
it was Uvid and congested in appearance. There is a great
sense of rawness and excoriation in the throat — ^it is rough
and raw, and feels as if it were burnt. Further, there is a
sense of suffocation in the throat — a feeling as if a lump
were there — ^which causes a constant inclination to swallow,
and at the same time there are great dryness, roughness,
and soreness. The tonsils and palate are sore, swollen,
and congested looking. The fauces are dry and swollen.
Dr. Burt, a very heroic prover, says that he felt as if a
ball of red-hot iron had lodged in the fauces and the whole
of the oesophagus when swallowing ; the pain was so great
that he could take nothing but fluid for two days, and had
a constant choking sensation. Dr. Williamson, of Phila-
delphia, after chewing some pieces of the fresh root, felt a
dry sensation in the upper part of the pharynx, a disposi-
tion to hawk and clear the throat without relief — ^he finally
raised some pieces of tough sticky mucus. Swallowing
was difficult, and became so severe that he could not
swallow even water. Every attempt to swallow was
Attended with excruciating pain shooting through both
ears. Pressure and tension were noted as being felt in
both parotids.
Such are the indications of the disorder set up by Phyto-
lacca in the throat. Some years ago these symptoms were
regarded as resembling those of diphtheria, but I think
it will be obvious that they are wanting in some, which
are pathognomonic of that much-dreaded disease, at any
rate when fully developed. What they do resemble is a low
type of ulcerated sore throat, not altogether unlike that
produced by mercwry. Phytolacca, however, gives rise to
more swelling and less ulceration than does Toercury. It
is indeed a kind of throat which is common enough in
epidemics of diphtheria, but it is diphtheroid rather than
^t^^t^" Q« PHYTOLACCA. 403
diphtheritic. Dr. Bayes describes several cases of diphtheria
occnrring when he practised in Cambridge, all of which
were treated with Phytolacca, bat at the same time carbolic
acid was applied to the tonsils and brought away the
membrane in large pieces and '^ appeared to exercise a
most happy influence over the subjacent mucous surfaces."
To true striking dxphihenAphytolacca presents no analogy ;
but Dr. Hughes regards it as specific when high fever with
aching in ^e back and limbs are present. I am hardly
disposed to go so far with him. Phytolacca gives rise to
no high fever, but rather to one of a low type with great
prostration. The throat and the cavity of the mouth are,
as we have seen, swollen and livid, the tonsils are enlarged
and so too are the parotids ; there are also great soreness
and difficulty in swaUowing, but there is nothing whatever
like the false membrane of diphtheria, and no offensive
odour. If there is any reflection of the diphtheria disease
in the pathogenesis of Phytolacca it is but a budding
diphtheria. If, however, Phytolacca is not calculated to
deal effectively with the fully-developed diphtheria, it is
still very valuable in some of the types of sore throat
which closely approach it. Enlarged tonsils, enlarged
parotids, a swollen congested mucous membrane, small
ulcers here and there, with salivation mark many sore
throats in low types of disease, in such and in what
Dr. Hale, of Chicago, calls ^' cases of catarrhal inflamma-
tion of the head and throat, which closely simulate
diphtheria" — it has proved very useful. In describing
such cases, he says, *^ on exposing the fauces I have seen
what appeared to be a large patch of diphtheritic membrane
upon the posterior wall of the throat ; but; a close exami-
nation would prove it to be tough white mucus from the
posterior nares clinging tightly there." Here ihQ Phytolacca
is clearly indicated, and has been found to be curative.
It is well to give the medicine not only by way of mix-
ture with water, but as a gargle. It is very refreshing to
the patient, and also cleansing to his throat.
The appetite for food appears to be considerably
increased at first by Phytolacca, but in no short time it is
entirely lost. There is also great thirst.
Eructations are frequent, and some nausea is a constant
symptom. In a young woman, who had drunk freely of a
strong infusion of the root, the following state was noted :
** Nausea with the vertigo, immediately followed by violent
2d— 2
404 ON PHYTOLACCA. "'S^^SS??^?
Beriew, July 1, 1881.
retching and vomiting, ejecting the contents of the stomach,
which consisted of ingesta. The vomiting continued at
intervals of from one to five minutes, ejecting a trans-
parent mucus slightly tinged with yellow." This nausea
is attended also by a faint feeling, severe pain in the
umbilical region, and, as I pointed out when speaking of
the kind of headache produced by phytola^ca, by heat in
the head, by a dull pressure in the forehead, somewhat
relieved by eating, bnt soon returning with increased
severity. In this instance, when the symptoms detailed
were evoked by chewing the root and swallowing three or
four grains of it, " vomiting occurred violently every ten
or fifteen minutes, the nausea was relieved, and the pain
in the forehead was increased by vomiting." The acrid
vomiting in this case caused a feeling of excoriation and
scraping in the throat — water and Cofiiee taken to allay the
retching were instantly rejected.
In this I think you will recognise the picture of many
cases of so-called sick headaches — ^remember, I do not say
all, but many. I feel sure that when such symptoms as
these characterise a sick headache, you will find phytolacca
curative.
We also find that phytolacca produces a kind of vomit-
ing, characteristic of gastritis. Of this we have examples
in the two following cases, both arising from eating the
root. In one there was free vomiting at intervals of twenty
or thirty minutes, continuing for twenty-four hours. In
another it is reported that in about two hours after the
second dose, he complained of feeling sick at the stomach,
and, in a few minutes more, violent vomiting began, first
of food, then of greenish matter, finally of a dark matter
mixed with clear blood ; it requires great efibrt to vomit ;
this syncope continued nearly all night, but was somewhat
relieved in the morning, and ceased in the afternoon.
In addition to nausea and vomiting, we find that there
is great pain in the epigastric region — ^pain as of pressurer
burning, constrictive and griping, bruised, cutting, and
tearing. It is increased by pressure, by taking a full
inspiration, and by walking.
There can be little doubt but that pain and suffering of
this kind is due to inflammation of mucous membrane of
the stomach. Vomiting is the conspicuous symptom, the
stomach refuses to retain anything, any food whatever iff
ejected inmiediately ; the pain likewise, which is buming^
S^J^TJSiL^ ON PHYTOLACCA. 405
and catting in character, and aggravated by pressure
or movement, all point to inflammation of the stomach as
the pathological state produced by the drug*
A similar condition exists in the intestines ; the liver
also is disturbed as shown by the heavy aching, the digging
pain in, and the inability to lie on the right side. A
violent pressing pain is also noticed in the hypoohondrium,
BO that he cannot remain in a sitting posture.
Fain, burning, cramping, and griping is referred to the
umbilical region. The intestines are full of gas, the
emission of which somewhat relieves the pain. Through-
out the abdomen griping and cramp-like pains are very
severe. Purging is, as might be expected, also severe.
Thus we find " purging severely and frequently ; " " severe
purging after vomiting, the stools thin and dark brown."
In one very extreme case of poisoning, we find diarrhoea
with sickly feeling in the bowels, copious discharges of
'blood, mucus, and what looked like scrapings of the inner
surface of the intestines ; involuntary stools from straining,
which continued even in sleep. In another, ''diarrhoea
set in with the vomiting, with fearful tenesmus, rendering
it impossible to leave stool for a moment, the pain did not
■cease for an instant, the stool was at first yellow, then of
greenish matter, finally dark bloody matter, this continued
all night, and in the morning was somewhat relieved,
•ceasing early in the afternoon."
The stools are chiefly soft and papescent, or thin and
jdark brown, copious and light yellow, mucous and bloody,
attended with tenesmus, and preceded by heat in the
rectum. With these symptoms you must bear in mind
that there is no active fever, but on the contrary, a state
of prostration — ^a condition approaching collapse. PhytO"
lacca you will thus find to be indicated in cases of what are
called English cholera, where the pain is severe, the
vomiting great, and the purging considerable. In cholera
infantum it has proved useful. In some cases of dysentery
it will be a serviceable medicine, especially when the heat
in the rectum and the straining immediately before and
during stool are peculiarly well marked.
In sach cases phytolacca has been much more generally
used by homoeopathic physicians in the United States of
America than it has been in England. Here it would seem
that its powerful action on the gastro-intestinal canal has
been somewhat overlooked.
406 ON PHTTOLACOA. «^L=?S??^"
BoTiew, Jnly 1, 1881.
Irritation is also set up in the kidneys. Weakness,
pain, and soreness are felt in the renal region. The urine
is diminished in quantity to such an extent as to be
described as suppressed, and subsequently it is increased
in amount. Dr. Burt, in describing his own condition,
says : " The urine was at first diminished, afterwards
increased ; the urine remained acid and became decidedly
albuminous ; the specific gravity greatly increased." Thid
albuminous condition of the urine has been held, and with
reason, to justify the prescription of Phytolacca in diphtheria;
but, at the same time, it is insufficient where other and
more prominent symptoms of this disease are but im-
perfectly developed. It is doubtless produced by a renal
congestion near akin to that which marks the state of the
tonsils, fauces, and parotids.
The irritation, which as we have seen is set up in the
throat, extends to the larynx and bronchi, and is marked
by a sensation of dryness in the lamyx and hoarseness,
somo dry cough with an expectoration of tough mucus,
some shortness of breath, slow sighing respiration and a
sense of suffocation, pain and tenderness and a bruised-like
feeling in the muscles of the chest.
These symptoms all indicate a degree, but not a veiy
serious degree, of pulmonary congestion. It is, I appre-
hend, in cases where, firom whatever cause arisiDg,
congestion of the lungs follows a sore throat of the type
I have described, that Phytolacca is useful ; not in purely
idiopathic congestion; nor yet again, in one that is
extensive; and still less so, when there is much febrile
excitement.
The action of Phytolacca on the skin is very distinct.
In the following case the symptoms arose in a woman who
took about a couple of table-spoonfuls of an infusion of
three ounces of Phytolacca root in a pint of whisky three
times a day.
'* She was covered," says Dr. Grasmuck, in the Ohio
Medical and Surgical Report , "from the crown of the head
to the soles of her feet with an eruption, the like of which
I never beheld ; it began on the scalp and spread down-
wards to the very toe-nails ; it consisted of erythematous
blotches of irregular shape, slightly elevated, of a pale
red or pink colour, very sore and painful, itching sUghtly
only on desquamation, but too sore to allow any scratchiog
for relief, and terminating in a dark red or purple spot,
55Si^j^?8r° ON PHYTOLAOOA, 407
taking about thirty days for each to pass through its
various stages of eruption and desquamation, and about
the same length of time to advance from the head to the
feet, so that the eruption could be seen at one time in all
its stages of development; there was no accompanying
fever, no swelling. After mere, sol. 8d x trit., which
relieved the sleeplessness and finally also the pains, the
eruption grew worse rather than better, and even invaded
the conjunctiva and mucous membranes of the nose and
mouth ; and now, after a lapse of three months, it is in
the fauces and oesophagus, having entirely disappeared
from the external surface."
To what known morbid condition to liken this state is
not easy. Erythema, followed by ulceration, is perhaps
most like it, but it is erythema of a type rarely, if ever,
seen in practice. We will, however, consider it in connec-
tion with the next case I shall cite.
The following condition was set up in a man from eating
the root for some trivial complaint.
" On the third day, after taking the medicine, an itching
commenced on his hands and feet, and spread over the
entire body. Four hours after this began a rash showed
itself, following the same course that the itching did.
"With this the itching started with renewed force, and
became so severe that he could hardly contain himself.
The more he scratched the worse the itching grew ; skin
hot and dry ; it seemed as if he would burn up ; great
desire to pour cold water on himself, which would relieve
him for a few moments, but was always worse afterwards ;
he could not lie in bed, as the heat of the bed was more
than he could bear, it aggravated the itching so badly ; his
skin was very red, and if he exercised so as to feel the
least warm little vesicles could be discerned under the
cuticle."
Here I think we have an illustration of some inveterate
cases of eczema. I remember seeing one some few years
ago under the care of Dr. Wheisler, of Clapton. The
patient went through much such a process as this, while the
desquamation was something enormous. I do not recollect
whether we gave him Phytolacca, but I rather think not.
He ultimately recovered, chiefly by means of a course of
hydropathic bathing. In such a case I should certainly
advise you to give this medicine. The condition seems to
408 ON PHYTOLACCA. ^''SS^i^^STTlS'
B«new,Ji]l7l,lBBl.
be one of inflammation of the akin with effusion, teimi*
nating either in desquamation or ulceration.
In another case an itching on his left calf and then on
the right was accompanied in the latter part of the time by
a lichenous eruption, the itching lasting two or three
weeks, and was always worse during the first part of the
night, often keeping him from sleep. Dr. Hale, of Chicago,
states that it has cured lichen-like eruption of the skm,
and is especially useful in eruption which form a part of a
syphilitic disease, and also in lupus.
We will now examine the symptoms of the back and
extremities. Glandular hardness in the neck was noticed
by Dr. Burt and several other provers, thus suggesting its
use in such a condition, when arising as part of a diseased
state. The neck is stiff, especially the right side, and
worse during the night and on rising in the morning.
Pains are felt in the muscles of the scapula, and a con-
stant, dull, heavy pain is noticed in the lumbar and sacral
regions, which is aggravated by motion. Shooting pains
extend from the sacrum down both hips to the feet. Here
we have some resemblance to sciatica shadowed forth.
Muscular cramp is a prominent symptom. The muscles
are described as gathering into great knots, hard and rigid,
the cramp coming on suddenly, continuing a few moments,
and then subsiding in an instant, leaving the muscles
flaccid and sore.
Aching pains in the shoulder blades are noticed in
several, and also in the shoulder joint. There is also a
sensation of weight and pressure on both shoulder blades.
The arms ache and feel extremely weak. A dull aching
pain and tenderness as from a bruise is felt in the muscles
of the outside of the right upper arm, most severe
about two inches above the elbow, particularly when the
part is pressed upon and touched and the arm is extended.
Pain is also noticed as felt just at the insertion of the
deltoid. There is in addition a good deal of aching in
the forearm and rheumatic-like drawing along the ulna,
and in the leg. Jerking pains are noticed in the hands
and legs, especially frequent are they in the hands, the
finger joints being particularly affected. The pains are
lancinating or shooting in character. In one instance
occasional sudden prickings were felt in the points of the
fingers, as if occasioned by electric sparks.
i£!SS?:S!fr!Sf**' ON PHTTOLAOCA. 409
Benew, J11I7 1, 1861.
The lower extremities are weak* Nenralgio pains occur
•on the outer side of the left thigh, and also of the right.
The knee joints feel stiff and ache, and the pain is
increased by walking. The ankle joints are also painful,
80 also are the tarsal joints, but the pains are not so
marked or so severe in the joints of the foot as they are
in those of the hands. These symptoms represent not
only rheumatism but neuralgia. Neuralgic pains in the
arms, hands, and thighs. Further, this combination of
rheumatism and neuralgia resembles that form of rheuma-
tism which is engendered by mercury, or by mercury and
syphilis jointly.
Pains, similar to these, are noted as occurring in the
superior maxillsB, and, in the case I have referred to,
as related by Dr. Grasmuck, pain was felt in the frontal
bone, and described as resembling that of periostitis.
Dr. Hale says that in periosteal rheumatism phyto-
lacea is useful, and he bases his opinion on the case re-
lated by Dr. Grasmuck. The patient was a woman of
forty-five, keeper of a boarding-house, of a bilious, sanguine
-temperament, active and hardworking, the mother of a family.
She had always had good health until a year before Dr.
Grasmuck saw her, when she was attacked with rheumatism,
this was followed by anasarca and many other symptoms,
indicative of the change of life. After some month's
illness she recovered with the exception of a slight pain in
the right hip joint. A month later Dr. Grasmuck saw her
tind found her suffering intensely from pains in her joints and
in the bones of her face and hand, which had prevented sleep
for many nights. The skin eruption, an account of which
I read to you just now, is then detailed, and Dr. Grasmuck
goes on to observe that there were no accompanying fever,
no swelling except in the face, no sweats, and the appetite
was good. She wanted relief from the nightly pains in the
bones of the face and head, and wanted to biow what the
eruption was. On examination I found that the pains
proceeded from nodes, especially in the frontal bones, and
resembled very much those of periostitis. My first im-
pression, says Dr. Grasmuck, was that I was dealing with
a case of syphilis, but a closer inspection and my intimate
acquaintance with the family, together with the history of
the case, caused me to abandon this theory, and the next
one of mercurial cachexy also. A vigorous eross-examina-
tion, he adds, revealed the &ct, that about thirty days before
410 OR PHTTOLAOOA. ''SSSL^SI??^
Bevjev, July 1, 1881.
ahe had been indaced to take " a blood purifying " remedy,
consisting of a pint of whisky with abont three onnces of
poke root — the popular name for phytolacca — ^in it. Of
this poisonous and saturated tincture she had taken ^'a
BwaUow three times a day tiU I was caUed in."
This is only a single case it is true, but it is a verj
well marked one, and justifies us in regarding phytolacca
as probably capable of coping with some cases of syphilitic
or mercurial rheumatic periostitis. It does so, the more
in that associated with these symptoms were those of the
eruption I detailed to you just now, which had a very
syphilitic character about it. Its value has, moreoYer,
been clinically tested. The late Dr. O'Brien of South
Shields {Monthly Homoeopathic Review^ vol. x. p. 173),
states that in a case of syphilitic rheumatism with enlarge-
ment of the parotid and submaxillary glands this agent
produced prompt relief, and a rapid subsidence of the
tumours. In another case of rheumatism of the right
frontal region, accompanied by nausea and aggravation of
the pain in the morning, relief was afforded by one dose
of Phytolacca,
Further, in chronic rheumatism uncomplicated with
mercurial or syphilitic taint, phytolacca has proven a
valuable remedy. Of such a case, Dr. Hale gives the
following illustration in his work on New Remedies.
*' Mrs. S., aged about 40, had a severe attack of inflam-
matory rheumatism fifteen years ago, which ran into a
chronic form, affecting the left hip-joint, of which she
lost the use. Upon examination, the synovial membrane
was found implicated, with considerable tumefaction from
the effusion. The patient was of a scrofulous diathesis.
I ascertained she had enlargement of the glands of the
neck and axillse which had existed since she was a child.
'' There was no swelling of the limb, the pain was obtuse,
heavy, aching, generally worse in damp weather. She
complained of coldness of the limb, and the pain was
aggravated by warmth. She was very much emaciated,
and had night-sweats, having an acid re-action. Urine
scanty most of the time, but sometimes very clear. She
had not walked without assistance for fifteen years.
''Prognosis unfavourable, but concluded to give the
Phytolacca a fair trial. Gave the tincture of the ripe
berries, 80 drops three times a day.
iSSSJ'j^rSS?*' HEART SYMPTOMS. 411
it
In two weeks I saw her for the second time, and she
seemed very mach benefited ; less pain, the tmnefaction
of the hip had nearly disappeared, the muscles of the
thigh had relaxed, and she had greatly improTed. In a
few weeks, under decreasing doses> she recovered the ase
of her limb,"
That Phytolacca excites the glandular system we have
had evidence in the enlargement which we have seen
has occurred in the parotid and submaxillary under its
influence ; but it is not so limited, the mamma has by it
become swollen and inflamed. The slight hint here
given has led homoeopathic physicians to develope one of the
popular uses of the drug. For many years it has been
reputed in the Western States of America as a remedy in
"broken breasts," and this not only in human beings
but in mares and cows. Dr. Hale of Chicago, brought
this part of the action of Phytolacca fully out and gave
some striking clinical illustrations of it in the British
Journal of Homoeopathy (vol. xxi. p. 202).
Of the value of phytolacca in such cases and also in
darting neuralgic pains in the breast, pains which always
excite the anxiety of woman, who has ever a fear of
scirrhus before her eyes, I have often found phytolacca a
very certain and speedy remedy.
It has generally been given in drop or two drop doses
of the tincture, Ix or 8x dilution. As a gargle, 3 ss — 5 i
to a pint of water is very efficient, when this application
is needed.
21, Henrietta Street,
Cavendish Square.
May 17th, 1881.
HEAET SYMPTOMS.
Bt Adrian Stokes, M.D.
In perusing the records of Materia Medica arranged by
Hahnemann according to his schema, I have often been
struck with the disjointed character of many of the symp-
toms in various provings ; some one or more being recorded
among those of the head, another among those of the back,
thorax, stomach, abdomen or extremities, without any clue
as to their connection. In some cases Hahnemann does i
refer in a note from one symptom to another to which it is
412 HEABT SYMPTOMS. ^'SS&^S??^!
, July 1, 18SL.
organically idatedy the reference being from head to
extremities, or from any part to another at a distance.
Snch references are very abondant in the proYings of china
— are distinct iti the connection of catarrh of the nasal
passages and of the intestines in chanuyndUa (cf. 195 x 202
with 235 X 240)~and in cannabis the heart symptoms and
those of the stomach are referred from one to the other,
without other key to the connection than the notes.
Now if we want to establish the organic relationship of
parts thus severed and scattered about, we have to hunt ap
laboriously the various regions, and put the pieces together
as well as we may. This is always a difficult work, and the
results of it are never very satisfactory ; while for one group
that we may reconstitute, we see many more we should
like to do the same by, but cannot find the key to their
relationship. This is the case particularly with the heart
symptoms, which have in the body so large a circle of
sympathetic relations, and in the books stand so much
idone. As the heart is an organ affected by so many and
varied conditions, arising in its own structure and functions,
or in sympathy with the ailments of other organs, or from
changes in the emotions and affections, it must needs reveal
its troubles in many forms of expression which are not
found in our provings ; or, if recorded, the link to unite
them is missing. As Longfellow says —
" £*en as the troabled heart doth make, in the white oonnteoaiice
confession ; ''
80 does it reveal its troubles also by the motions of the ribs,
pains and other sensations in the head, thorax, stomach
and limbs, as well as by increase of certain secretions and
suppression or diminution of others. Symptoms indicative
of heart suffering are plentiful enough in the schema, some
medicines being quite rich in them, while hardly a word is
said about the heart itself, and not one as to how the symp-
toms are to be connected. In such a way much knowledge
that might be extremely valuable is lost, or at any rate
made so difficult of apprehension as to be practically useless.
In medical practice I have found so much difficulty in
getting at anything satisfactory about the physiological
action of drugs on the heart, that it occurred to me many
years ago to make a schema for the heart, and bring into it
as many symptoms as seemed to me indicative of cardiac
suffering. I note first the heart's action, and sounds, pulse,
palpitation; then anxiety; affections of the chest as to
SSSfS'JSSfrSSS"* HEART 8TMPT0MS. 413
JteriMT, July 1, 1881.
respiration, yoice, pains and sensations; then &cial ex-
pression and colonr, including the appearance of the eyelids'
and eyes, nose, and lips ; the look of the ears ; sahjective
sounds in these. The movements of the upper and lower
extremities, with pains or other sensations therein ; the
state of the renal and alvine excretions ; the state of the
skin as to colour, dryness or moisture; and lastly the
iniSuence of the heart-state on the mind, temper, and dis-
position ; and on sleep and dreaming.
In bringing together thus around a common centre,
heart symptoms scattered all through the Hahnemannian
schema, I am fully aware of the difficult and delicate nature
of the work. No Chinese puzzle was ever more complicated,
no dissected map more difficult to piece together. Yet that
the pieces do exist, and can be put together so as to form a
map or chart of cardiac symptoms peifectly reliable, is my
firm conyiction ; and the more I have considered the subject
the more am I convinced. Colleagues whom I have con-
sulted on this subject have given opinions adyerse to the
reconstruction of symptoms in this manner, and the intro-
duction to the Repertory contains a strongly expressed
sentence against the proceeding. While I acknowledge
with all respect the superior judgment of my fellow
labourers, I feel bound to exercise my own in an inde-
pendent manner ; and I have a firm belief that when the
dissevered parts of a corpus can be recognised and put
together, they may be united and form once more a recog-
nisable entity, which may offer us many concrete features
of disease that we cannot now find in our Materia Medica.
I have felt interested in this subject sufficiently to have
explored the Materia Medica for heart symptoms as far as
kali iod.y writing out the objective and subjective sensa-
tions and pains, and their associations, so far as I could
trace them, in the order stated above. I shall be glad to
learn the opinions of others as to the plan I have adopted,
as to how far it is right, in the first place, to use such a
plan at all ; and next, how far is it practicable, and beyond
all things, practical. To this end I invite the members of
the homoeopathic medical body to give their attention to
the subject ; and those who will, to favour me with their
opinions thereon, with such suggestions as may occur to
them. I should have brought this matter forward long
ago, but my time has been so much occupied by the prepa-
ration of the two chapters of the Repertory ^ xviii. and xxiv..
414 HBABT SYMPTOMS- ^"^^^f^^.
that I have not been able to give it sufficient attention.
Bat now that chap. xxiy. is in the printer's hands I am at
liberty to work at this.
In order to illustrate the synthetic process sketched
above, I give a few examples of the scope and power of
some medicines acting on the heart and its envelope as
direct tissue irritants or sedatives, and of others whose
influence is reflected from the organs of digestion, the
capsules of the jomts, or the glands and lymphatic Efystem.
Beginning with aconitum napeUm, and gathering round it
the pathogenetic efiects of the other varieties of thut
drug, we find the following symptoms grouped in their
(presumed) natural associations. Natural groups are given
as recorded.
Heart. Aco. nap.
Palpitation, with great anxiety, dyspnoea and weariness
of limbs ; sensation of rushing in the head, confusion, and
flushing heat of &ce.
Palpitation, with increased heat of tJByoe ; palpitation on
walking, with great anxiety, restlessness, and pressive pain
in cardiac region.
Palpitation sudden and violent, with tightness of chest,
while sitting quietly.
Palpitation lasting all day, relieved by rest, worse by
motion.
Tendency to palpitation, with trembling. Heart beats
quick, while the pulse was slow, appearing to intermit,
with attacks of powerlessness.
Impulse weak, heart flutters.
Left ventricle consonant with pulse, but the right auricle
seemed to be convulsively agitated with rapid irregular
movements not related to the contractions of the ventricle.
Only one heart-beat for three of the pulse, still the beats
of the vena cava were equal to those of the arterial pulse;
rapid irregular motion of right auricle synchronous with
the beats of the vena cava.
Pulse rises from 96 to 112 on going into the open air.
Towards evem'ng the pulse became full and quick, he
felt the carotid and temporal arteries throb, while sitting
(face flushed; red and hot; sweat on the face).
Pulse 96 during afternoon, with fever. Heart beat
strong ; pulse full, hard, and strong, moderately quick.
Pulse 67, small and soft, rising in an hour to 102, fioll
find hard ; then an agreeable warmth came over the bodyi
£^J?ST3^ HBABT SYMPTOMS. 415
followed by perspiration, the legs being cool all the time.
(This symptom is repeated at '* fever.")
Poise fall, strong, intermitting every six beats of heart
and radial artery; with heaviness of chest, especially in the
cardiac region.
Pulse irregnlar and intermitting. Two or three beats
in rapid snccession, and then a panse of some duration.
Pidse febrile, intermitting. Ditto with general dniness.
Pnlse rapid at first, becomes weaker and slower, softer,
and unequal.
Pnlse irregular, weak, thready. Pulse fails and finally
becomes imperceptible.
Dreadful oppression of precordial region ; feeling as
if a great weight lay on the heart, becoming a pressive
burning, with flushes of heat along the back.
Weight on the heart region, with anxiety. Inward
pressing pain in the region of the heart. Slight stitches
in the cardiac region.
Transient stitches in heart, especially when walking, in
forenoon ; sometimes also when at rest. Slow jerks in the
cardiac region towards the surface of the chest.
Anxiety ; oppression ; constriction of chest, with con-
tracted pulse, when sitting, after much motion.
Gontiuctive, squeezing, tight pains in chest, mostly
under the sternum, with anxiety and dyspnoBa.
Gbreat oppression of chest.
Pressure and burning under the sternum. It prevents
deep breathing, and extends back to the spine.
Heaviness in chest, dyspnoea, sighing, violent palpitation,
dry cough, with clear, bloody sputa.
Acute lancinating pain in cardiac region, as if in the
costal pleura, on rising in the morning. It prevents deep
breathmg or rising up, and is attended by inclination to
cough. After friction and repeated efforts at inspiration,
the symptoms abated, but left the part sensitive.
Stitches in the left side of chest.
Shooting pain in left side of chest, followed by palpita-
tion and ill humour, anxiety and headache.
Shooting, boring, burrowing pain in the left side, between
the fourth and sixth ribs, lasts ten minutes.
Pain under the sternum, as if hurt or bruised. Bespira-
tion much afiected by sighing, need to breathe deeply, as if
to drive the blood through the lungs.
416 HEABT SYMPTOMS* ^'r^jJ^^.
Oppressed respiratioiiy diy hackmg conghy much thirst
and chilliness.
Dyspnoea with oppression under the sternum. Bespi-
ration short and honied, anxious and gasping ; breath hot.
Bespiration noisy, with open mouth. Voice hoarse, weak,
and low, with prostration.
Head : Confusion in, with pressive frontal ache. Con*
fasiou soon changes to heayiness, with pressiye pain in
vertex and forehead.
Vertigo, as if about to fall over. Vertigo on stooping ;
she staggers, most to right side. Vertigo, all goes round.
Vertigo with nausea, worse on rising from a seat, less while
walking, not when sitting. Vertigo much increased hj
shaking the head, whereby it goes black before the eyes.
Vertigo with headache frontal and occipital.
Heat in the head. Burning headache, as if the brain
were agitated by boiling water.
Headache like a band round the head. Compressive
headache.
Fulness in the head, with weight, and pressure in fore-
head.
Itching on the scalp. Painful tickling, and feeling as if
the hairs were pulled.
Eyes protruded and swollen (with the full and bounding
pulse and red face).
Eyes look dull and encircled by liyid rings. Dimness of
vision ; flickering before the eyes.
External ear red, hot, and swollen.
Bearing, humming, and buzzing in ears.
Face : Hot, red and swollen (with the full pulse) ; face,
pale, with expression of anxiety and restlessness; face
expresses fright and imbecility; face, livid and ghastly,
dusky like that of a person strangled. Face purplii^, with
white blotches.
Lips blue, livid.
Throat feels eonstrioted, dry ; and feels nairowed.
Anorexia ; faint sick feeling, without nausea.
Urination frequent, of much increased pale watery urine,
with faint feeling on passing it.
Diuresis and constant sweat.
Increase of urine, depositing blood on stimding.
Extremities. — ^Weariness of arms and legs, difficulty of
moving the limbs, feeling as if the joints were loose. Fain
in left shoulder, and posterior exterior side of left arm^
SSS?.S??3#^ HBABT SYMWOMfl. 4l7
Bevimr, July 1, IBBl.
Numbing paralytic feel of left arm (and thigh), so that he
can hardly move the arms. Pricking and tingling in the
arms and fingers, and painful numbness across wrists.
Hands icy cold, nails blue (with failing pulse). Lower
limbs are weak and give way, unable to support the body.
Sleeplessness. — ^Frequent starting out of sleep ; nights
restless and tossing ; with vivid dreams full of action and
turmoil. Anxious heavy dreams, with oppression of chest.
Nightmare.
Feverish symptoms. — Chilliness, shivering and faintness.
Chilliness and tingling between shoulders and down
back, with cold fingertips and blue nails, in a warm room.
Shuddering, with paleness and sunken features.
Burning heat of face towards evening, with pressive
headache, at the same time general rigors and thirst.
Feverish state with general prostration. Cold sweat on
brow when pulse is scarcely perceptible.
Extreme feeling of nervousness ; fearful, and uncertain
as to actions. Extreme sensitiveness to all impressions-
Extreme languor, lassitude, and muscular weakness ; can
hardly stand ; pressure at heart. Tendency to faintness ;
swooning.
Constrictive sensation in chest, icy coldness of body, with
fainting fit.
Sudden attack of unconsciousness while urinating ; all
the blood seemed to rush to the head, and he fell down.
He remained for some time quite prostrate.
Anxious trembling, preceded by an unpleasant feeling of
coldness.
Homoeopathic physicians will be at no loss in recognising
in these symptoms pictures of many cardiac troubles,
organic and functional. Indeed it is hardly possible to find
a case of heart disease in which it may not be useful in one
stage or another.
To turn now to a medicine presenting cardiac symptoms,
with constitutional states altogether difierent from those
produced by aconite, I collect from the schema of baryta
carbonica the pictures to be seen in the following : —
Palpitation, violent and prolonged. Palpitation, oc-
casional violent. Palpitation, when lying on the left side.
Palpitation, renewed when thinking of it, for it then makes
her anxious.
Pulse full and hard.
No. 7, Tol 25. 2 n
418 HEABT BTMPTOHS. ^''rS^
BevifSfw, July 1, 18BI.
She cannot lie on the left side on aecoont of gresi
orgasm of the blood, and Tiolent palpitation, with sore
feeling in heart, and great anxiety.
Sensation of severe palpitation on front of chest.
Sadden sticking and burning in the left side of chest,
deep seated, in afternoon, cansing her to ciy out*
Small stitches in left side of chest at every inspiration.
A violent stitch in left chest by lifting a weight with both
hands. Doll stitches under the sternum, deep in chest,
followed by a bruise pain in that spot.
Voice hoarse ; aphonia.
Cough, dry and suffocative.
Headache, vertigo, and nausea (these are associated by
Taylor also in the account of poisoning by ba.e). Moral
state anxious, depressed ; the memory much impaired.
Sight dim, as from a gauze veil before eyes. Diplopia.
Sparks before the eyes.
Ears : humming, roaring, ringing noises in. Sound as
of a strong wind.
Throat, constriction of; attacks of chokiug.
Increased secretion of urine, with frequent calls to
pass it.
Sleeplessness ; starting in affright. Dreams are anxious,
confused, and frightful. Sudden attack of dejection in bed.
Becords of poisouing show baryta to be a powerful
depressant of the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a
direct poison on the heart, as shown by the flabby withered
state of the muscle after death, and by the coagulated
blood found in the auricles and vena cava and coronaiy
arteries. As it is the property of baryta and its salts to
produce states of long lasting depression and debility, so
will its therapeutic field be found in the heart diseases of
the aged, the weakly, and the scrofulous.
Cactus grandijionis.
Heart's action increased, and when walking there is
palpitation with anxiety.
Bapid, short beats of the heart on moving quickly.
Several violent irregular heart-beats with sense of
pressure and weight at the heart.
Several violent irregular throbs when walking slowly,
rising from a seat, or turning suddenly.
Many violent throbs on walking the room slowly, with
tightness of chest and deep breathing.
nX^uiS^ HEART smWOMB. 419
K^ . ■■■■■■■
The heart-beating and pnlsation in the chest worse when
lying on the back, more visible and andible when lying on
the side, with anxiety and nightly restlessness.
Violent palpitation and pulsation in upper part of chest,
at night in bed.
Palpitation occurs by a quick motion, as stooping, or
rising from a chair, or turning; but not by fast walking;
with anxiety rising to the throat.
Palpitation continues day and night, when lying on the
left side, and when walking.
Palpitation, with oppression at heart when sitting or
lying in the evening, worse when lying on the back in bed.
Palpitatien consists of small irregular beats, with
necessity to breathe deeply. Slight excitement or deep
thought will bring it on.
DuU heavy pain at heart, worse by pressure; constriction
as from an iron band.
Very acute stitches in the heart make him call out loudly
and weep, with obstruction of breathing. Pricking pain at
heart, impeding breathing and motion.
Yery annoymg sensation of motion in the heart from
front to back, as if a reptile were moving therein; worse by
day than by night.
The palpitation and pain come on when walking or
ascending steps, so that he must pull up, and breathe
heavily several times ; it came also by rising from a chair,
moving any article, which caused sudden and violent throbs,
intermitting.
Bespiration short and hurried, with the palpitation;
oppression of chest as from a great load.
Bespiration prolonged, with anxiety.
Bespiration continued, as if bound up in iron, so that the
thorax could not be dilated.
Periodical attacks of suffocative dyspnoea; with cold
sweat on face, and loss of pulse.
Painful constriction of chest, and low, weak voice.
Oppression and constriction at middle of sternum, with
dyspnoea. Bronchitis and catarrh.
Pressive pain in upper part of left chest, between second
and third ribs, when sitting quietly, with dyspnoea, lasting
several minutes, and causing a desire to breathe deeply.
Violent pain in the head, of a pressive kind, with vertigo.
Much weight on vertex, and pain in the occiput.
Sight very dim and veiled ; frequent.
a B— 2
420 HEART SMPTOMB. "^SKiSSS??^.
Beriew, JnlyltlflBl.
Ears, pnlsations in ; buzzing in ; rnshing, as of a riyer.
Stomach, feeling of great constriction in the scrobicnlas,
extending to hypochondria, impeding respiration. Con-
tinned and annoying pulsation.
Frequent desire to urinate, and abundant passage.
Disposition, much sadness; taciturnity; disposed to
weep. Hypochondriachal mood; melancholy; irritability;
fear of death.
General prostration, weakness and malaise, so that
walking is difficult. Bestlessness, hurry, always wanting
to be doing something, and fearing to be too late, with
agitation of the heart and feeling of oppression.
Here we have a suggestion of debility, and nervous
depression, which may direct attention to heart diseases in
women of timid and retiring character, or in men of similar
constitution, or in the aged and weakly of either sex. It
does not seem that cacivs is a. direct poison to the heart
muscle, but that it depresses the nerve power sent through
the cardiac ganglia, and that of the great sympathetic
nerve.
Carlo animalis.
Palpitation in the evening without anxiety. Palpitation
violent, every throb felt in the head. Palpitation on
awaking in the morning, obliging her to be still vrithout
opening her eyes or speaking. Palpitation after breakfast,
or other meals. Palpitation afber singing.
Pressure about the heart almost like pinching. Coldness
felt in the chest. Tremor in the chest. Violent pain in
chest as if it would fly to pieces, with internal soreness.
Violent compression early in the morning, with arrest of
breathing. Contracted feeling in chest. Contracted feeling
in chest as if suffocating early in the morning in bed. She
fears to die. Stitches in the heart on speaking ; and feels
when moving the (left?) arm as if the heart and chest
would be torn. Chilliness usually prevails.
Voice roDgh, hoarse and low.
Sensation of suffocation and pressure in CBSophagns,
ascending the throat, alternated with feeling of roughness.
Urination copious ; the fluid pale.
Head stupid and dizzy. General debility and prostra-
tion. Memory bad. Moral state depressed. Weeping
mood. Disposition perverse and peevish.
SJ^jW^*** viola tbioolor. 421
These symptoms are such as we see in hysterical and
dyspeptic persons. Heart troubles arising firom irritation
of the digestive organs may find in carbo aninialis a useful
palliative. It is said to be much more far reaching and
more lasting in its action on the vegetative sphere than
carbo veg.
Sidmouth, June 1881.
^nOLA TRICOLOR OR JACEA IN THE TREAT-
MENT OF ECZEMA INFANTILE.*
By W. H. Bigleb, M.D.
.^ead before the Philadelphia Connty Homoeopathic Medical Society.)
Thb object of the following short paper is to draw attention
to a remedy in the treatment of that sometimes troubb-
some disease, crusta lactea, which, to judge from our
literature, has not been so frequently employed, nor indeed
80 generally known as its antiquity and its real virtues
deserve, — the viola tricolor or herha jacece.
According to Porta it was known to the Greeks and
Romans under the name of phlox. Eminent physicians
employed it in the treatment of various diseases with
occasional success, and cures of asthma, epilepsy, and
uterine complaints have been reported from its use ; but it
was regarded as specially and specifically applicable to
chronic and obstinate cutaneous diseases (Matthiolus's
CommenU on Dioscy p. 822 ; Fuchsius^s Hist, Stirp.y
p. 804).
In the New London Dispensatoji/ (Salmon 1684) the
following notice ot jacea occurs: '^ Silver knapweed; it
is called Flaming violet also. Schroder saith it is bitterish
and sharp ; cleanses, pierces, and discusses ; it (is a) vul-
nerary and sudorific; takes away clammy humors, and
opens obstructions of the womb ; outwardly it is cosmetic,
and cures scabs, itch, etc.''
But as has happened with so many other, and perhaps
better remedies, its use was gradually abandoned, until
towards the close of the last century Strack, of Mentz,
sought to restore it in his Dissertation on Crusta lactea and
its Remedy (1779). He prescribes a specific one handful
of the fresh, or one-half drachm of dried leaves, to be
braised in hidf a pint of milk, and the whole to be taken
night and morning. He says that in the first week the
* Beprinted from the Hahnemannian Monthly.
422 TIOLA TMOOIOB. "^^"^SKWS!'
Beview, July 1, 1881.
eruption seems to increase, and to appear in other parts of
the body, but that at the same time the urine acquires a
smell as of cat's urine, and at the end of a fortnight the
crusts begin to fall ofif, and sound, healthy skin appears
beneath. When the urine does not acquire this odour, bnt
remains unchanged, ho says the disease will generally be
of long continuance (London Medical Journal, vol. ii,
p. 487). Some years later his observations were confirmed
by Hasse (Diss, de Viola Tncohr, Erlangen, 1782) and by
others (Melzer, Yeckrskrifb, and Murray). {Aj^aratxiM
Medic. t vol. vi, p. 83.)
Although there were some who denied the specific virtues
of the herb (Mursinna, Achermann, Hemmig, et a{.), or
even (Selle) maintained that it was injurious, title majority
of physicians believed that it acted on the intestinal func-
tions as a cathartic, that it sometimes produced emesis,
and that, besides increasing the flow of urine, it imparted
to it a disagreeable odour like that of cat's urine, that there-
fore it was by no means inert, but a valuable medicine.
We find it successfully employed by Hasse and others in
crusta lactea with violent cough and dyspnoea, in impetigo
of hairy scalp and face, in acne rosacea, in favus, in ser-
piginous crusts in children and adults, in swelling and
indurations of cervical glands, in large boils all over the
body in scrofulous children, in pustulous and ichorous
exanthems of the feet, in squamous spots on the skin, in
rheumatism and gout, in articular rheumatism with itch-
like eruptions around the joints, in an impetiginous exan-
them on the forehead consequent on suppression of gonor-
rhoea, and in an induration of the testicles from the same
cause, in ichorous ulcers with violent itching, in blennor-
rhoeas of the various mucous membranes, and in epilepsy.
In Hussia a decoction of the pansy was a popular remedy
for scrofula; and it was used in 1808 by Schlegel, of
Moscow, with good efiect in syphilitic affections, especially
venereal ulcers (Sammlg., 3, pp. 141 — 156 ; Frank t Mag,,
/. i4. d r., vol. iii, p. 655).
In 1818 Fauvergne claimed to have cured with vioh
nervous paroxysms in a young girl, which he thought had
been caused by suppression of orusta lactea.
Finally, we find reference to the herha jacea and its
several preparations, decoctions, .infusions, syrups, and
unguents in the various pharmacopoeias of Europe, and in
the Umttd SUUet DitpetuaUnrg (Wood and Baohe).
ilS^J^Tl^ VIOLA TRICOLOB. 423
Daring the annual meeting of the American Dermato-
logical Association, held in New York on Augast 26th,
27th, and 28th, 1879, a paper on viola tricolor was read by
Dr. H. G. Piffard, in which he quoted largely from Gazin,
who has experimented considerably with the drug, and
used it with success, and from a brief article written by
himself in the American edition of Phillips^s Materia
Medlca and Therapeutics. He says it has long been a
&Yoarite in France in the treatment of eczema capitis and
faciei, and that he has employed it for many years with
great satisfaction in chronic cases of this affection. The
watery preparations have appeared to answer better than
the alcoholic. He believes it to be of the greatest servico
in eczema about the upper part of the body, and especially
the head; while when the affection was situated on tLo
lower part of the body he has found it to be frequently
aggravated by the drug. {The Medical Record, yoI. xvi,
No. 11.)
It was not to be expected that a drug so well known, and
promising so much, would be neglected by Hahnemann,
and we find in Stapt's Archiv (vol. vii, 2, p. 173) a proving
undertaken by him in connection with Franz, Wislicenus,
and Gutmann. They used a tincture made of equal parts
of the expressed juice of the fresh herb and alcohol. We
find here, as in the case of so many other of our remedies,
that it is not the symptoms obtained by the provers that
have given the indications for the use of the remedy, but
those obtained ab tisu in viorbis, the clinical symptoms, the
much-caluminated empirical usage. After this has directed
our attention to certain applications of a remedy, it is not
a matter of very great difficulty to read between the lines
of the provings justifications for our practice. All the
characteristic skin symptoms except an indefinite itching
here and there oyer tixe whole body, are taken from an allo-
pathic source (Hufeland's Joumaly xi, iv, p. 128, et seq.),
and the keynote, '' urine smelling like cat's urine," was not
observed by any of the provers, but is altogether clinical
(Alshop, in Murray's Appar. Med., i, p. 703 (?) 33 (?),
Hufelaiid, Strack).
In his Lesser Writings (p. 328), Hahnemann says of the
viola, *^ The pansy violet at first increases cutaneous erup-
tionsy and thus shows its power to produce skin diseases,
and consequently to care the same effectually and perma-
nently."
424 VIOLA TRICOLOR. ^S^^SjW!
In the sacceeding works on Materia Mediea the original
proving is repeated without additions, and with or without
the clinical symptoms according to the principles of the
seyeral editors, and even Allen can find no new anthorities
for his Encyclopedia, Teste and Hughes both notice it
fayoorably in their works on Materia Mediea. Gaemsey,
in his Lectures, says its principal use is in nocturnal
emissions accompanied by very vivid dreams.
In many of the works on therapeutics it is not mentioned
at all among the remedies used in crusta lactea, and in
others it occupies a very subordinate position. Those who
speak most favourably of it are Hartmann {TherapeuHcs^
vol. ii, p. 89) and Hughes. The latter says that he veiy
seldom has occasion io use any other remedy. He gene-
rally uses the 1st or 2nd dilution, but has seen the 6th
act well, with which attenuation Dudgeon also reports a
case of cure in the British Journal of HomoM)pathy, xi, 855.
Lilienthal, in his Therapeutics, says under Eczema:
" Viola trie, — ^Milk-crnst, burning and itching, especially
in the night, with discharge of tough yellow pus ; heat and
perspiration of the face after eating.'* And in his Skin
Diseases, **Jacea, — ^Violent itching eruption, worse eveiy
night, and urine smelling like cat's urine." Why he has
used the unhomoBopathic nsanejacea in this latter place I
cannot understand.
I have been in the habit of using viola for the last twelve
years, and have recommended it to many of my colleagues
in the treatment of the eczema of children, and in the
majority of cases its use has been attended with gratifying '
success. I candidly confess, however, that I am unable to
give any so-called characteristic symptoms or keynotes, the
presence of which would invariably and unmistakably point
to the applicability of this herb, but the following general
indications may prove as useful to others as they do to
myself. We may expect the best results from the employ-
ment of t'io^a where the eruption is acute, and is confined
principally to the face, although its extension to the scalp
is no counter-indication. In eczema of the whole body I
have not found it produce any good results, but others may
have been more fortunate. The tendency of the disease is
always rapidly io the pustular form. The crusts are of a
brownish-yellow colour, and the eruption is veiy itchy in
all its stages, but the itching seems to be temporally
reeved by rubbing. The general condition of the child
^Siynr* RBVIEWB. m
seems to be one of perfect health, with the exeeption, per-
haps, of a rather thin white discharge from the nose, and
may be a loose catarrhal cough. The remedy Tery soon pro-
daces a profnse flow of urine, bnt never have I had a case
where either before, during, or after the administration of
the medicine I could detect the characteristic smell of cat's
urine.' I usually have about 3 j of the dried herb (the im-
ported, for the market is full of inferior qualities) boiled in
half a pint of water, and of this tea prescribe f 3 j two, three,
or four times a day in milk slightly sweetened. If the
patient is a child at the breast I order the mother to drink
rather larger quantities of the tea morning and evening,
while the child takes nothing, and I have found this to
work as well as where I, in addition, prescribed viola^ for
the child. Frequently, in alternation with the tea, I have
given the first or second decimal dilutions twice a day, or
the thirtieth, but have not been able to discover any
marked difference in the course of the disease produced
thereby. I have also used the various dilutions without
the tea, but the effects have not been so marked, nor any
more permanent. Sometimes, in aggravated cases, I have
derived benefit from the external use of the tea, together
with internal medication. In short, I have allowed myself
considerable latitude in the mode of administration of this
drug, and have every reason to be satisfied with its action.
Medicinal aggravations I have observed in some few cases,
but they are speedily followed by improvement and cure.
Usually^ by the end of the first week, sometimes by the
third day, a decided improvement is visible, and at the
end of two or three weeks the cure is complete. If others
will try this drug, not waiting for the urine smelling like
cat's urine, I have no doubt they will be convinced, as I am,
of the almost specific action of the viola tricolor in the
treatment of crusta lactea.
REVIEWS.
Prize Essay on DiphHieria, By A. McNeil, M.B. Chicago :
Duncan Bros. 1861.
It is long since we have seen a more succinct and instructive
monograph than this Prize Essay. Written essentially for the
profession, there is about it none of the quasi-amateur element
which characterises so much of the homoeopathic literature of
the day. Information, drawn from many sources, is here ranged
426 BBVIBW8. "2SSL^5??SI
Beriev, July 1« IflBl.
m a way wiiieh imprints it on the memory, and makes the reader
led thai he has really benefited by its perosal. The writer opens
with a chapter on the history and geography of diphtheria, which
shows a vast amount of research and considerable acqnaintance
with old time chronicles, tracing back its history to the days
of Galen and Asclepiades.
The chapter on the etiology of the disease goes deeply into
the yarioas theories which have been advanced by writers of
different ages and schools. The author gives extracts from the
works of eminent pathologists bearing on the germ theory of
causation. On the oue side he quotes Oertel, Eberth, Hanpt,
and Nassiolf, who all hold that the peculiar bacteria formed in
diptheritic fluids are the cause of the disease, and that the
disease is spread by contact with these particles. Amongst the
opponents of this theory he places Schneider, Leflett Julian,
l^ube and Gscheitel, Euener, Hiller and Billroth. The author
himself is opposed to the germ theory of causation, maintaining
that these atoms are not the cause but the effect of diphtheria.
He says : " If the bacteria theory is true, we would be compelled
to resort to gargling, cauterising, and large doses of drugs
capable of destroying the fungi."
Ordinary dishifectants, he says, are useless against the disease,
the only one of any value being ozone, which is very difficult of
production with ordinary appliuices.
We can scarcely agree with the author when he states that
'' there is more rationality in its being produced and propagated
by telluric influences, as electricity, terrestrial magnetism and
evaporation," and <<that the disease may have an autocthonous
origin.'' We fear that this theory cannot long be maintained in
the face of recent researches made by Pasteur on the bacteria
present in various diseases, notably those on the bacteria oi
eharbon in sheep. So constant are the forms of the bacteria
in various diseases, that physiologists can almost say with
certainty, what pathological phenomena would be produced by
inoculation with a given bacterium in the healthy subject.
Under the head of symptomatology, the invasion and course of
the disease in its various forms is graphically and carefiil^
portrayed. The various complications, with their diagnostic
differentiation, and the deplorable sequelsB which form one of the
most dreaded features of this fell scourge, are pointed out. Bis
interesting to remember that the severest sequelsB may arise from
apparently the mildest cases, and that the simplest case may take
on a malignant form without any apparent reason.
The chapter on pathology is written with great care, and well
repays perusal. Quoting from Euchenmeister, the author shows
that almost all the usual gargles and topical applications are
powerless to change or dissolve the exudation membrane. The
'b^, jSTTio^' '^ETINaS OF BOOIETIEB. 427
only agent which effected this was lime water ; <* in aqua calois,
(one part lime to thirty of water) the exudation disBolved com-
pletely in ten to fifteen minates, and in a less time became so
soft that it fell to pieces by moderate shaking."
The chapter on seqnelss is most comforting to the trae homoeo-
path. The anthor affirms ** that nnder good homoeopathic
treatment there will be few or no sequelsB in this disease. They
noTer follow a cured case of diphtheria." Whenever we have
seqaelaB, it is either, says the author, because the case has been
under old-school treatment, or because we have failed to find the
right remedy.
The latter part of the essay is taken up with a review of the
various remedies which have been found useful in the disease,
with the indications for each. The totality of the symptoms is
insisted on, in the selection of the remedy. As an instance of
this, a case is mentioned (almost the only case given in the book)
in which hryonia 200 and rhu» 200 both failed to relieve acute
rheumatism, and arnica 1000 gave prompt and permanent
relief. Alternation too is decried as a confession of weakness.
Our old friend, p$ora^ crops up here and there as exerting
a latent influence in acute disease.
The repertory is copious and clear, and the author though
evidently a high dilutionist, very sensibly refrains from insisting
on any given dilution, evidently believing that the dilution is
within'oefiain Kmite of merely se^ndary 4ortance, and that the
proper symptomatic drug selection is the great point to be
sought after.
The last chapter is devoted to the consideration of tracheotomy.
Statistics show conclusively that in diphtheria this is not
advisable, as the majority of cases operated on have died.
Homoeopathy generally succeeds without it, and we may safely
say that if the indicated remedy will not cure there is little use
in performing tracheotomy.
Taken as a whole, this little work contains much useful in-
formation, and were it only for the repertory alone, deserves a
place on the shelves of the reference library.
MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES.
THIRTY-FIRST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
OP THE GOVERNORS AND SUBSCRIBERS OF THE
LONDON HOMCEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
The Annual General Meeting of the Governors and Subscribers
of the Hospital was held in the Board Room of the Hospital, on
Saturday afternoon, April SOth, 1881, at three o'clock. The
Lord Ebury presided, and was supported by the Earl of Denbigh,
428 MBBTING8 OF SOCIETIBfl. ^^J^J^SS?®!
the Earl of Dtuimore, Major Win. Yanghan Morgan, Mr. H. E.
Williams, Dr. Hamilton, Dr. Yeldham, Dr. Bayes, Dr. Hale,
Dr. Carfrae, Dr. Burnett, Dr. Pope, Mr. Samuel Gumej,
Mr. C. G. Walpole, Mr. F. Bosher, Mr. Crampem, Mr. Alfred
B. Pite, Captain Davies, Dr. Matheson, Dr. Blackley, Dr.
Boriven, Dr. Dyce Brown, Mr. Adlard, Dr. Mackechnie, Mr.
Boodle, the Bey. Dacre Crayen, Mr. Alan E. Ohambre (Official
Manager). Seyeral ladies were also present.
The Bey. Dacbe CsAyEN (Chaplain) opened the meeting with
prayer.
The Secbetabt (Mr. G. A. Cross) read the notice conyening
the meeting ; the minutes of the Annual General Meeting, held
on April 27th, 1880 ; and the minutes of the Special General
Meeting, held on the same day, all of which were formally
approyed and signed by the Chairman.
The Beport, which was read by the Official Manager, is in
eyery way satisfactory. It records a donation of £200, to be
increased in subsequent years to £250, from a nobleman who
desires to remain anonymous ; a renewal of the donation of £210
by Miss Duming Smith, for the maintenance of six beds for
chronic cases, while the income from the Quin legacy is estimated
at £450 per annum. The extensiye alterations which haye been
made in the sanitary arrangements of the Hospital are folly
described, and the expenditure of £1,000 is stated to haye been
incurred. An improyement in the gas apparatus is also noticed.
The following extract sets forth the state of the finances and
the number of patients treated.
'* The Balance-Sheet shows that the total Ordinary Income
of the Hospital from the 1st April, 1880, to ihe 81st March,
1881, was £8,918 ds. dd., as against £8,971 lOs. 5d. for the
year 1879-80 ; thus showing an apparent decrease of £58 7s. 2d.
This result is, howeyer, due to an alteration in the mode of
making out the Balance-Sheet, and if this alteration had not been
made, the figures would compare as follows : — 1879-80,
£8,971 10s. 5d., and 1880-81, £4,485 6s. lOd. The items
comprising Ordinary Income are : — Diyidends on Stocks ;
Donations ; Subscriptions ; Begistration Fees ; Hospital Sunday
and Saturday Funds ; Bents ; Nursing Fund — ^Profits ; Paying
Patients ; and Dr. Quin's Annuity Fund. To this amount of
£8,918 8s. dd. must be added Extraordinary Beceipts : £5 58., the
proceeds of the Dramatic Becital ; £105, the profit deriyed from
the ' Thalian ' Dramatic Performance, and a Legacy of £50 ;
making a total of £4,858 16s. 6d.
« The Expenditure on account of Ordinary Income from Ist
April, 1880, to the 81st March, 1881, has been £8,867 18s. -Sd.
** The Annual Subscriptions actually receiyed from the Ist
April, 1880, to the 81st March, 1881, amounted to £1,482 146.
IS^j^iTSk*** MBBTINGfl OF BOOIBTIBS. 429
- , - ,- .
A snm eBtuoiAted at £70 representing SabBcriptions due bnt not
jet paid*
** The total Donations from Ist April, 1880, to the 81st
March, 1881, amounted to £495 17s. lOd. ; an increase— as
compared with the year 1879-80— of £110 18s. lOd.
** The fees for the Registration of Oat-Patients show a
decrease of £87 15s., and amomited, for the twelve months to
8l8t March, 1881, to £272 8s., against £810 8s., in the preced-
ing year; but this decrease of £87 15s. is due to the closing of
the Hospital for nearly five weeks.
*' The Nnrsing Fond Receipts have jostified the anticipation
formed at the outset and repeated in the last two Reports. They
amounted — ^in the period from the Ist April, 1880, to the 81st
March, 1881 — ^to £627 2s. 6d. : the largest amomit yet received
under this head. In the twelve months immediately preceding
the amonnt was £612. In 1878 the total was £899 Os. 6d. A
slight alteration has been made in the mode of bringing this item
to account in the Balance-Bheet.
"The awards from the Hospital Sunday and the Saturday
Funds differed but little from those of the preceding year, and
the difference was due only to causes beyond the control of the
Hospital.
" The only Legacy received in 1880-1 was a bequest of £60
by the late Miss BrsJcenbury.
"The working Expenditure of the Hospital from the 1st
April, 1880, to the 81st March, 1881, was £8,867 18s. 8d.
This compares with £8,897 19s. 6d., the Expenditure in the
year 1879-80.
" The Invested Funds of the Hospital at the 81st March, 1881,
exclusive of the Hospital Premises and Furniture, and the Free-
hold House, No. 1, Powis Place, consisted of —
Consols £2.674 2 8
New Three per Cents £4,757 17 10
Total £7,482 0 6
being the same amount as last year.
" The total number of In-Patients treated in the Hospital
from the 1st April, 1880, to the 81st March, 1881, was 485,
while in the twelve months immediately preceding the number
was 494, showing a decrease of 9, accounted for in the following
paragraph.
** The number of Out-Patients shows a decrease of 686. The
numbers from the Ist April, 1880, to the 81st March, 1881,
being 6,217, and in the corresponding preceding twelve months,
6,908. The aggregate number of In and Ont-Patients treated
since the opening of the Hospital to the 8l8t March, 1881,
amounts to 162,229. The falling off in the number of Patients,
480 MEETINGS OF BOOIETIES. ^'^^
B«irisw« July U iBBL
both In and Oat, is due to the fiust that the Hospital was dosed
for nearly five weeks to carry ont the extensive drainage and
stractoral alterations, and a comparison between the total number
actually admitted and the time the Hospital was open shows a
steady increase on the previons twelye months.
** The visiting of Out-Patients at their own homes oontinoes
to be attended with a fair amount of success/*
Some alterations have been found necessary in the arrange-
ments for receiving paying patients. A ward has been set apart
'* where infectious cases occurring unexpectedly in the Hospital,
or nurses returning from an infectious case, could be accommo-
dated/'
Among other matters of interest alluded to in the Beport we
notice the creation of a special division for the treatment of
diseases of the skin under the care of Dr. Galley Blackley, and
the appointment of Dr. George Wyld as vaccinator. The special
division which has hitherto existed for children has been
abolished, and the patients divided equally among the medical
ofSoers.
The remaining portion of the Beport is occupied with a state-
ment of appointments and donations.
The Lord Ebuby, in moving the adoption of the Beport, said
the Beport having been duly read it became his pleasing duty, as
on many previous successive occasions, to move that it be printed
and circulated in the usual manner. They had had favourable
Beports of late years, but he thought he might say this was the
best of all. (Cheers.) They could hardly help being impressed
with its lucidity and singular clearness. (Hear, hear.) He had
— with his colleagues on the Board of Management — passed many
an anxious hour in that room in the course of previous yean.
There had been times when they dared not look forward to the
future of the Hospital and feel assured that it would maintain
the position it ought to hold in the Metropolis. But all who
heard or read that Beport would feel that their greatest diffi-
culties had been cleared away, and that they would still be able
to work on for those who were suffering and who came to them
for relief. His Lordship then referred to recent correspondence
in the Times with respect to the medical treatment of a great
statesman, who had passed from among us, and expressed his
astonishment at the great amount of ignorance shown, even by
the medical profession, as to the true nature of homceopathy.
What especially surprised him was the persistence with which it
was maintained that homoeopathy was very good in slight ail-
ments, but that of course no one would thmk of sending for a
homoeopathic medical man if seriously ill. His Lordship pictured
a patient who might call in a homoeopathic doctor for some
apparently simple compUunt, but finding himself getting worse,
iSSSS^J^l^S^ IfBETINOS OF B00IETIB8. 481
would flay to his adviser that he would be really too ill to see
him any more. They must eradicate that idea. And he waa
not withont hope that oat of that controversy^ which developed
BO much and singular ignorance, good might come, as people
would be led to enqnire for themselves what homoeopathy reidly
is. In general practice there could be no doubt that the homoBO-
pathic practitioners beat the allopathic quite out of the field, and
he had himself seen astonishing instances of skill on the part of
homcBopaths when, what he might call the Act of Parliament
physicians, had confessed their inability to render aid. He did
not remember noticing in the Report any allusion to the School
of Homoeopathy. That Institution had been of very great
ftsmfltance to the Hospital by its contributions of money. Like
the Hospital, it had encountered very great difficulties. There
were a great many '*ifs" and '< huts'' to be considered and
airanged, but its Medical Council and Committee of Management
had successfully carried it through the dangers of its infancy.
With regard to the scheme for amalgamating the Hospital and
the School, it would unquestionably be of great advantage to
both these scientific Institutions to do so, by bringing promi-
nently before the public the true principles of homoeopathy.
Until that was done they would never reach the position they
ought to have. Those who beUeved in the wonderful skill and
knowledge of the Founder of the system knew best that a com-
bination of all their forces was necessary in order to reach the
highest point. Hahnemann, great as he was, was not like that
Manchester machine which was called '* the mule," simply
because it was believed to be so perfect that no one could invent
anything better. That should not be the motto of homoeopathy.
(Cheers.) The success of the past must only stimulate us to
further efibrts in the future. There were many items he might
deal with, but perhaps he had said enough. His Lordship said
he cordially approved the Report, and ask them to signify their
approval also. (Cheers.)
The Easl of Dummobe begged to second the motion for the
adoption of the report, and said he had listened with great
satisfaction to the speech of the noble Lord.
The motion was carried unanimously.
Dr. Ybldham then proposed a vote of thanks to the Chair-
man, the Board of Management, the House Committee, the
Treasurer, and Sub-Treasurer, and referred to the services
which Lord Ebury had rendered to the Hospital. He (Dr.
Yeldham) had never been absent from an annual meeting for
thirty years, and he did not remember an occasion when his
Lordship had been absent. It was very gratifying to have
associated with any institution a nobleman who took so great an
interest in it as Lord Ebury took in the London Homoeopathic
482 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. ^'ISS&^SISS!^
Baview, July 1, ISBL
Hospital. He eamesUy hoped thai his Lordship would he
spared for many years to take the same kindly care in its
welfare. (Cheers). The weU-wishers of the Hospital were also
much indebted to those gentlemen who, in the offices of
Treasurer and Sab-Treasnrer, and as members of the House
Committee and Board of Management, did so mnch nsefnl work.
Their Treasurer was a most important officer in the Hospital.
(Hear, hear). Particularly when we are in want of funds.
(Laughter.) On those occasions we draw freely on his
resources, and the readiness with which he responds makes the
Treasurer an invaluable member of the Board of Management.
They owed him a debt of gratitude. Then as to their Sub-
Treasurer, Mr. Crampem (cheers), he was sure that that gentle-
man, although for the present incapacitated from ill-health,
continued to take the deepest interest in the affairs of the
Hospital, and for many years past had not ceased to devote a
great amount of time and labour to the duties of his office and of
tiie House Committee. They were all glad to see him present
(cheers) that afternoon. As to the Board of Management, there
could be no doubt it was the backbone of the institution : with-
out a good Board of Management an institution was certain to
decline. A great sign of progress during the last twelve months
was the fact stated in the report that the income had become
equal to the expenditure. That was a very gratifying fact, and
if he were to say anything farther about the Board of Manage-
ment it could not add to the force of that pregnant fact.
(Applause).
Dr. BuBNETT said he had listened to the remarks which had
been made by Dr. Yeldham, and he so entirely approved of all
that had fallen from him that he would only second the motion
in a formal way.
The motion being carried. Major Wh. Yauohan Moroaii — ^in
responding on behalf of the Board of Management — said &at
none could be more thankful than they were for the improve-
ment in the state of the affairs of the Hospital. The greatest
difficulty which, as a Board, they had had to contend against in
the past year was the defective state of the drainage. Two yeais
ago they had spent much money on general improvements which
were quite indispensable, and subsequently they found that
the Hospital was deficient as to that in which every Hospital
ought to be perfect, — ^in sanitary arrangements. There could
be no doubt that the chief essentials of a good Hospital were —
proper ventilation, proper nursing, and proper hygiene. It was
really no good having successful physicians and surgeons unless
they had also a proper and effective sanitary system. (Hear,
hear.) To meet the expense incurred in making our Hospital
as efficient as possible in this important particular the Board
SS^J^h^^ MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 438
are obliged to ask yoa for permission to make use of a portion
of the Beserve Fond, under the law which provides for such a
contingency. As to the current income, the handsome legacy
of Dr. Quin (cheers) has enabled the Board to look at Uieir
expenditure with a light heart. Anyone who would take the
trouble to inspect the Hospital would admit that they had effected
a Tery great improvement at a cost certainly not beyond what
was necessary to incur. He could not say this much without
alluding to their honorary architect. At a great expenditure of
time and labour he had organised these improvements in a man-
ner worthy of his reputation, and in a most economical manner.
The Hospital was now more efficient than ever : medically,
sanitanly, and officially. (Cheers.)
The Lord Ebury then proposed a vote of thanks to the
anonymous nobleman who has so generously given a subscription
of JB200 for the first year, with a promise to increase the amount
to JS250 in future years.
The motion being seconded by Mr. Cramfebn, was carried
unanimously amidst applause.
The Earl of Denbioh then proposed a vote of thanks to Miss
J. Duming Smith for her continued generosity in undertaking to
maintain six beds in the Hospital, chiefly for patients requiring
prolonged treatment. Miss Smith had sent a first cheque for
Jg210 in the month of May, 1880, and another in the month of
March just past. His Lordship said that while homoeopathy was
most valuable in acute diseases, it was not less valuable in
chronic diseases, and it was highly gratifying that a lady so
munificent was interested in the Hospital. It was to be hoped
that her noble example would be followed by others. (Hear,
hear.)
Dr. Dyce Brown, in seconding the motion, said that they were
extremely indebted to this lady for the munificent subscription
which she had bestowed on the Hospital. The idea of benefiting
chronic cases was a very good one, and he quite agreed with the
remarks made by Lord Denbigh as to the value of homoeopathy
in such cases. Formerly the Medical Staff had to ask the per-
mission of the House Committee before they could retain any
patient in the wards, but now they could, under the conditions
attached to this generous annual contribution, retain at their
discretion any case which a prolonged stay in the wards was
likely to benefit.
Dr. Pope then moved the re-election of those Members of tho
Board of Management who retire by rotation, namely, the Earl
of Dunmore, ihe Earl of Denbigh, Mr. Philip Hughes, Mr.
Humphries, Mr. Pite, and Mr. Bosher.
Dr. Neville Wood said he had much pleasure in seconding
the resolution, and congratulated those gentlemen on their.
No. 7, Vol. 25. 2 r
4M
MBETWOB OF 80CIETIB8. *tSgw,/«ly i^Wi.
adherence to the lioiiMBopatfaie ** heresy ** which they knev to he
a great medical &ct (cheers) and thought they were also to be
thanked for their warm snpport of the HospitaL
Captain l)A'nB then moved the confirmation of three medical
appointments made during the year, namely, those of Dr.
Sandberg, Dr. Noble, and Dr. Clarke.
Dr. Hamilton said he had mnch pleasure in seconding the
motion, as he felt quite sure that those appointments were for
the good of the Hospital.
Mr. H. B. WiLiiiAMS then rose to move that a vote of thanks
be given to the Medical Staff for their valuable services during
the year, and
Mr. BosHEB seconding, it was carried unanimously.
Dr. Hamilton said he had to return thanks for this moat
cordial vote. As a permanent member of the Medical Staff he
could only say that although their aim was, of course^ principally
to relieve the sick, yet they never forgot that as homoeopaUis it
was their duty to demonstrate in doing so that their system was
better than any other. (Cheers).
Major Yaughan Mobgan then moved that the Governors' and
Subscribers' sanction be given to the Abolition of the Special
Department for the Treatment of the Diseases of Children,
which they had discontinued under the advice of the Medical
CounciL The speaker then read the following paragraph irom
the report : — '* The Special Division for Children, which has
been so long maintained, under the provisions of Law XXXIV.,
has, after consultation with the Medical Council, been abolished,
and the Children are divided equally among the Physicians in
charge of the Out-patients generally. This is found to work
more satisfactorily in the interests of the Medical Officers in
charge of the Out-patients and of the Children, as they have
now many more opportunities of coining for treatment. It iB
hoped, therefore, that the Governors and Subscribers will
ooncur in this change.' '
Mr. Boodle having seconded the motion, it was carried
unanimously.
The Eabl of Denbigh then moved a vote of thanks to the
Lady Visitors, the Honorary Solicitor, and the Honoraiy Archi-
tect, and remarked that, as to the first part of the resolution, no
one who had ever been ill could doubt the great advantage to
the sufferer of the sympathetic ministrations of the ladies.
(Applause).
^e motion having been seconded by Mr. Walpole,
Mr. Ptte begged to thank the meeting for the kind way in
which they had acknowledged his services. He regarded it as a
great privilege to devote what time he could to the work neoetf-
eaiy for the Hospital. :
B^/j^TTilS^ MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. 435
Mr. B08HB& responded on behalf of the Honorary Solicitor^
who was nnavoidablj absent.
The Bey. Daobe Osa.tbn replied for the Lady Visitors, and,
in' thanking the meeting for ^e kind way in whioh they had
spoken of tiieir services, remarked that his appointment to the
Chaplaincy was very recent and he conld not claim yet to an
ertensiye acquaintance with the Hospital and its friends. But
itf to those ladies who so kindly visit the patients in the wards
he had had considerable experience, and could say how valuable
saeh services were, especially when rendered with such tact and
kindness as ladies mostly displayed. (Applause.)
Mbqot Yajsohjm Moboak then rose to propose a vote of thanks
to Lord Ebury, as Chairman of that meeting and Chairman of
the Board of Management. Within the last few days his Lord-
ship had reached his eightieth birthday. (Loud cheers.) There
oouid not, therefore, be a better example of the success of
homoeopathy than Lord Ebury. (Applause.) Before he (Major
Morgan) was a homoeopath his Lordship was working effectively
in its service, while as Chairman of the Board he could not say
enough of him. Everything done under his auspices receives
his attention. His great experience has always been of the
.greatest value, and the great charm of his presence on the Board
was that when wanted he was always to be relied upon. Lord
Ebnry had rendered very great and signal service to the cause of
homoeopathy, and they only wished him many years of life and
happiness. (Cheers.)
Dr. Bates said his friend M^or Yaughan Morgan had said
everything he could have said by way of congratulation to Lord
Ebnry on his recent birthday. We all deeply feel that for a
nobleman of such influence to devote so much time and attention
to the afiairs of the Hospital is of the greatest advantage to it.
(Applause.)
l^e motion being put, was carried with acclamation.
LoBD EnuBTthen tiianked the meeting for their vote of thanks,
and said he littie thought that the fact of his having attained his
eightieth year had become known beyond his own immediate
neighbourhood. So long as he had health and strength he hoped
to continue his connection with the London Homoeopathic
Hospital. (Applause.) He had noticed with much pleasure that
at tiie commencement of the last session of the School of
Homoeopathy there was an address on the life of Samuel Hahne-
mann. The allopathic School of Medicine had its Hunter and
its Jenner, and so the homoeopaths had their Hahnemann.
(Cheers.) He was glad that most eloquent oration had been
printed for he had almost forgotten the very eventful life of the
great founder of homoeopathy. His Lordslup again thanked the
meeting for their approbation. He was present the other day
2r— 2
486 HOTABIUA. "'SS^^j^gg
at the Guildhall, when the dinner was given to the Eazl of
Shaftesboij. He did not think he was ever more gratified in his-
hfe than by what took place on that occasion. When his Lord-
ship and Lord Shaftesbury were at college together they used io
play the Ante and violin together ; his Lordship playing first and
Lord Shaftesbury playing second. (Laughter.) Well, that was
reversed in actual life, Lord Shaftesbuiy playing first, and his
Lordship playing — ^well, he supposed, twentieth. (Much laughter.)
At all events, the Earl of Shaftesbury had lived a magmficeni
life. (Cheers.) With regard to the School of Homoeopathy they
hoped for its continued progress as an institution which wonld
instruct medical men and students in the practice of a troer
medical science. (Cheers.)
Mr. Chambbe ttien read the foUowing telegram from ISi^
Humphries, a member of the Board of Management, who was
unable to be present : ''I unite with my colleagues in offering
respectful congratulations to our noble Chaiiman, my Lord
Ebury, on attaining his eightieth year. I hope his life may be
spared and strength given to continue in works of doing good io*
his fellow creatures."
After some further special business, the meeting terminated.
NOTABILIA,
INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION, 1881.
The following programme of this important meeting has been
issued : —
President, Dr. Hughes ; "Vice-President, * ;
Treasurer, Dr. Black, 88, Kensington Gardens Square, London,
W. ; General Secretary, Dr. Gibbs Blake, 24, Bennett's Hill,
Birmingham ; Local Secretaries, Dr. Hayward, 117, GroTe
Street, Liverpool ; Dr. Burnett, 5, Holies Street, Cavendish
Square, London.
An assembly of medical men practising homoeopathicallj
in all parts of the world will be held in London during the we^
July 11th — 18th, 1881, to communicate thought and experience,
to cement friendly union, and to confer as to the best modes of
propagating and developing the method of Hahnemann.
This Assembly will be open to all practitioners of medicine
qualified to practise in their own country. Those who desire to
become members of the Convention should present to one of the
secretaries, general or local, their names and addresses, and a
statement of their qualifications ; and, if unknown to the officers
of the Convention, should be introduced by some one known to
" Dr. Hamilton was the originally-elected President; but, having
resigned the office, the Vice-President, Dr. Hughes, has taken his place,
and a new Vice-President will be elected by Qie Convention on the £ist
day of its assembling.
them, or bring letters credential from some homcBopatbic
society, or other recognised representative of the system. They
will then receive a card of membership, which wiU admit them
on all occasions.
The general meetings of the Convention will be held at the
rooms of the Dilettante Society, 7, Argyll Street, Regent Street,
on the Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the
week of assembly, from 2.80 to 5.80 p.m., and on the Saturday
at 2 p.m. Sectional meetings can be held in the Hall during the
forenoons, as may be arranged among the members themselves.
Members of the Convention are at liberty to introduce visitors to
all these meetings at their discretion.
No papers will be read at the general meetings. The essays
which have been sent in, and have been approved by the Board
of Censors *, are being printed, and will be supplied to all who
desire to take part in the debates on their subject-matter.
They will be presented at the meetings, singly or in groups,
according to their contents, — a brief analysis of each being
given from the chair ; and the points on which they treat will
then be thrown open for discussion.
The appointed openers will be allowed fifteen minutes, and
subsequent speakers ten minutes, for their remarks.
The Chainnan will have liberty, if he sees that an essay is
being discussed at such length as to threaten the exclusion of
the farther subjects set down for the day, to close the debate.
In so doing, he will give the authors of the essays discussed, if
present, the opportunity of saying the last word before the
subject is dismissed.
The discussions wiU ordinarily be conducted in English ; but
-any member desiring to speak in another language can do so with
the consent of the meeting. Such speaker, however, shall either
obtain an interpreter, or shall, on rising, hand to the Chairman
a precis of the remarks he purposes to make, which, at the
conclusion of his speech, shall be communicated in English to
ihe meeting.
ORDER OP BUSINESS.
Tuesday, July 12th.
Address of the President.
Presentation of reports from the different countries of the
^orld as to the history of homoeopathy during the last fiveyearSy
and its present state tiierein.
Belgium — ^Dr. Martiny, Brussels.
Canada — ^Dr. Nichol, Montreal.
France — ^Dr. Claude, Paris.
Germany and Austria — ^Dr. Dudgeon, London.
* The Board of Censors has been made up of Dra. Hamilton, Hughes,
Dudgeon, Pope, and Teldham.
488 NOTABILU. ^■^SS
Befiflfv, July 1> IflBl.
Great Britain and its Colonies — ^Dr. Pope, liondon.
Italy — ^Dr. B. Amn^hy, Nice.
India — ^Dr. Sircar, Calcutta.
Bassia — ^Dr. Bojanus, Moscow.
United States— Dr. Talbot, Boston, n.S.
Discussion — On the Condition and Prospects of HooKBopafliy
at the present time, and the best means of farthering its caoae.*^
Wednesday, July 18th.
IfutUvtei of Homaqpathy and Materia Medica*
1. Essays for Discnssion :
** Thoughts on the Scientific Application of the Principles
of Homoeopathy in Practice." — ^Dr. Hayle, Rochdale.
'< Indiyidualisation and Generalisation." — Dr. Hu^es,
Brighton.
" A New • Similia.' "—Dr. Woodward, Chicago.
Subject for Discnssion — << The Selection of the Bemedy.
2. Essay for Discussion :
"The Alternation of Medicines.*' — ^Dr. Martiny, Brussels;
Dr. Bernard, Mens.
Subject for Discussion — '' Alternation,"
8. Essays for Discussion :
'* Drug Attenuation : its influence upon Drag matter and
Drug power." — ^Dr. J. P. Dake, Nashville, U.S.
** A Plea for a Standard Limit of Attenuated Doses." —
Dr. C. Wesselhoefb, Boston, U.S.
<* The Question of the Dose : Hahnemannism and HomoBO-
pathy." — ^Dr. Cretin, Paris.
Subject for Discussion — " The relatiye Talue of Clinical and
Extra-Clinical Evidence as to the Efficacy of Infinitesimal Doses.
»»
•r
Thubsday, JuiiY 14th.
PraeHcal Medicim and Oynacology.
1, Essays for Discussion :
** The Differential Diagnosis and Treatment of YeUow Ferer."
— ^Dr. Holcombe, New Orleans.
<* Indian Dysentery and Cholera." — ^Dr. Carter, Sydney;
Dr. Sircar, Calcutta.
Subject for Discussion — "Homoeopathy in Hyper-acuie
Diseases, including Hyper-Pyrezia."
2. Essay for Discussion :
" Cancer." — ^Dr. Gutteridge, London.
Subject for Discussion — "The possibilities of Medicine is
Cancer."
* The names of the appointed Openers and intending Debftten on esdi
subject wH be azmonnoed from the Ohair, and posted in the Ball of
lleeting, on the prerions day.
8. EssajB for Disciusioii :
'* On the place of Mechanical MeasoreB in PelTio Disease/'
— Dr. Edward Blake, London.
" On the treatment of some Uterine Diseases." — ^Dr. Djce
Broim, London.
** On the treatment of some of the Affections of the Cervix
Uteri." — ^Dr. Carfrae, London.
Snhject for Discnssion — ** The treatment of the Affections of
the Os and Cerm Uteri."
Fbiday, July 15th.
Surgical Thsrapeutictt Ophthalmology^ and OHatriei.
1. Essays for Discnssion :
** A Report (hy Dr. Dndgeon) on * The Liflnence of HomoBO-
pattiy on Operative Sorgeiy/ by Dr. Bojanns, Moscow.*'
** Surgical Observations." — ^Dr. Watson, London.
Subject for Discussion. — *' The help brought by Homoeopathy
to the Surgeon."
2. Essays for Discussion :
" Therapeutics of Iritis," — Dr. Yilas, Chicago.
Subject for Discussion. — '* The treatment of Litis, Simple and
Syphilitic."
8* Essay for Discussion :
'' Notes on some Homoeopathic Bemedies in Aural Disease."
— ^Dr. Cooper, London.
Subject for Discussion. — *^ The place of Homoeopathic Medica-
tion in Ear Disease."
Satubdat, July 16th.
Miscellaneous Business.
Pbebidekt'b Bboeption.
On Monday, July 11th, at 8 p.m., the President will hold a
reception at the HaJl of Assembly. To this all members of the
Convention are iavited, with the ladies of their families ; and it
is especially desired that visitors from abroad should take this
opportunity of becoming known to the officers of the Convention,
and their colleagues in general. The Secretaries will be present,
to enrol new members and issue tickets. Evening dress.
TESTIMONIAL TO LOBD EBUBY.
A HOVXMXMT has been set on foot, chiefly, we believe, at the
su^estion of Dr. Yeldham, to take advantage of the opportunity
of the Bight Hon. Lord Ebuiy's having attained his eightieth
birthday, for homoeopathic practitioners and others interested in
homoeopathy to present his Lordship with an acknowledgment
of the eminent services he has rendered to homoeopathy during
a period of at least forty years.
It has been rightly estimated, that the value of such a presen-
tation is contingent rather upon the number of those who have
^ HOTABILIA, ^"S^S^TSSTm.
. taken part in it, than on anj msrekj money worth it may possess ;
and consequently, no snbscription is to exceed one guinea— an
arrangement which will enable all to contribute who entertain a
due sense of Lord Ebury's constant and zealous efforts to advance
the interests and sustain the rights of homoeopathic practitioners.
The obstacles which were presented to the exercise of his pro-
fession by the homoeopathic practitioner thirty years ago are
scarcely capable of refdisation now. To-day it would be im-
possible to obtain a verdict of manslaughter from a coroner's
jury against a homoeopathic practitioner who had failed to prevent
his brother-in-law dying of cholera — but this actually occurred
in 1849. To-day no licensing board could be found that would
withhold its license to practise from a candidate who had passed
a fair examination, on the ground that he was intending to study
homoeopathy. This happened in 1851. Now it would be hope-
less to attempt to persuade the House of Commons to pass an
Act which would enable a Medical Council to deprive the
practitioner of homoeopathy of all professional rights. This,
however, was attempted in 1858.
We are quite wiihin the mark when we say that it has been
chiefly due to Lord Ebury's exertions that all disabilities of the
kind have been removed. It is to his Lordship's efforts that we
owe the 28rd clause of the Medical Act — a clause which is in veiy
deed the charter of scientiflc medical liberty. Never has an
opportunity of benefiting homoeopathy, or of relieving homoeo-
pathic practitioners from professional tyranny, been placed within
his Lordship's reach without his having warmly and earnestly
availed himself of it. As the Chairman of the Board of the
London Homoeopathic Hospital, and as the President of tiie
I/ondon School of Homoeopathy, Lord Ebury has worked hard,
and without the least regard to his personal ease and convenience,
in advancing the interests of both institutions.
For the position of comparative ease and of freedom which all
homoeopathic practitioners enjoy at present, for the opportunities
we possess of illustrating and teaching those truths in medicine
in which we have acknowledged our confidence, we are indebted
to no man in this country more than we are to Lord Ebury.
We trust, then, that no homoeopathic practitioner wiU stand
aside on this occasion, but that each and all will gladly and
thankfully come forward to publicly acknowledge his obligations
to the venerable nobleman who has, through so long a series of
years, laboured so vigorously, so unremittingly, and so success-
fully in our interests.
. Subscriptions wiU be received by Dr. Yeldham, the Treasurer,
at 58, Moorgate Street, E.C. Up to the 2drd June the subscrip-
tions amount to £118 15s. Od. The subscription list will remain
open during July, and we hope then to publish it. Meanwhile
I^^IX^ CORRBSPOKDKRCB. 441
we maai express our regret that eomparatiyely so few medical
fiaen have thns far taken advantage of this opportunity of pablidy
-expressing their obligation to Lord Eboiy. Bis dot, qui eito dot.
MABSHALL'S PATENT SECTIONAL FEEDING BOTTLE.
Tbe supreme importance of cleanliness in all applianees for
feeding purposes is nniyersally acknowledged. Especially is it
essential to infant-life, so susceptible as it is to the inflnenee
-of the germs of disease. To dean thoroughly, to rub and brush
in the lines and comers of the ordinary f ee^g bottle is often
difficult. That constructed by Mr. Marshall is so devised as to
admit the hand to all parts of its interior and enable a towel or
brush to be freely used. It is very simple, not likely to get out
<d order easily, and is inexpensive. It is well worthy of the
attention of medical men.
HAHNEMANN PUBLISHING SOCIETY"
Thx annual meeting of this Society will be held at the Dilettante
dlub, 7, Argyll Street, Regent Street, at 10 o*clock on
Wednesday morning, the 18th July. It is very necessary that
SM many members as possible should be present at this meeting,
as very important business, as to the work and future of the
Society, will be brought forward.
Gentlemen who may have any reports or suggestions to make
should communicate at once with the Hon. Sec., Dr. Hayward,
117, Grove Street, Liverpool.
BRITISH HOMCEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
The annual assembly of this Society took place on the 22nd and
2drd ult., when Dr. Pope was elected President, Dr. Dudoeon
and Dr. Blackley (Manchester) Vice-Presidents, Dr. Hamilton
Treasurer, and Dr. Riohabd Hughes Secretary for the ensuing year.
HOMOEOPATHY IN GERMANY.
The Berlin correspondent of the Times telegraphed the following
interesting piece of news on the 27th ult. : — '* A medical paper
-at Leipsic has been fined 100 marks and costs at the suit of 75
homoeopathic doctors for publishing a lecture delivered to a
Berlin Medical Society, in whicli homoeopathy was denounced as
quackery and swindling."
00RRE8P0NDENGE,
THE MEDICAL ACTS COMMISSION.
To ths Editors of the MonthU^ Honusopathic Bevisw.
GsHTUBiiBH, — ^It is time that those professional and laymen,
who are interested in the scientific progress of medicine, should
diamine into the present state of mescal law, with a view of
442 OOBBEBPOHDENCE. "^^Wlfuttl
obtainixig from the Boyal Coinmiiwion, now ntting, a reciificaium
of any wrongs under which the pnblic may be saffeiing. In th»
hope of obtaining a free expreesion of opinion in your pagee, I
send yon these few lines.
There are nineteen bodies in Great Britain and Ireland who
possess the power of granting licenses or diplomas, entitling
those who haye obtained them to register as general practitioneESr
surgeons, or physicians within these islands.
These nineteen halls, colleges, or nniyersilieB recognise
certain medical schools and hospitals in these idands as the only
educational establishments whose certificates shall be receiTed
as qxiaUfyvng a student to preunt himself for exammatioiu
It is not enough for the present examining bodies that a man
has qualified himself by study to pass an examination, bnt h»
must also have studied in a definite schooL He may not
enlarge his mind by studying practice partly in Vienna, partly
in Berlin, Paris, New York, or other cities. Such certi£catea
count for nothing. He must have studied for four years in
England, Scotland, or Ireland. He must have att^ded so
many hundred lectures delivered by lecturers attached to^
certain schools. He is not allowed to be examined, eyen if he
haye attained the highest amount of knowledge from his-
indiyidual study of the best books, or from instruction receiyed
from the best possible professor, priyately. He must haye
certificates from the recognised professors of these medical
monopolies, extending oyer four whole years, whether he ia
qualified or not in a less time.
I haye already pointed out some of these blots in the scheme
of medical education in my paper read at the Leeds C^ongress..
I have protested against medical teaching being made a
monopoly. I always shaU protest against this, as an injustice to
medical students, an iojustice to medical science, and an
ii\justice to the public, on these grounds.
In the first pLace, such a scheme handicaps genius. The law
which says that the candidate must show that he (or she) has
practically studied medicine for at least four years before he can
present himself for examination, is a good and proper law.
It would be quite proper if, in addition, it were instated that
such study should be conducted under the guidance of a legally
qualified practitioner.
But when it is required that the four years must be passed at
some public school, and that so many courses of lectoreB must
be attended, and that so much public practice at certain
hospitals must also be attended, a monopoly of teaching ia
created.
Again, the expenses of a medical education, sooh as to qaalify
a man to present himself for examination, amount at the pceeeoi
ISSS^^^uSSf^ OOHBBSPONDBNOB. 448^
dftj to 80 large a sum as praeticaUj to preoladA many man of
ganins from entering the profession.
I doubt yery much whether the average expenses of a medieal
ednoation at the present are mneh nnder JB1,000. Now, I know
that there are many men who have a natural talent (one may
even say have a genius) for medicine, who are quite unable to*
spare such a sum as this or even half or a quarter of that sum,
to deTote to the obtaining a medical Hoense or degree. It is-
eyident that men of natural talent or genius would greatly
advantage medicine as a science and that the public would be
great gainers in every way, were the difSiculties removed which
lay in the way of the attainment of medical licenses or degrees,
by men of tins class, and it appears to me that any true reform
in the laws relating to the medical profession must commence by
attracting to the medical ranks men of talent and genius, quite
irrespective of their possession of the means to pay heavy pro-
fessor's fees or large fees for hospital practice.
Another objection to the present monopoly in medical teaching
is that an aprit de carps, in medical corporations, is sure to arise,
and that enquiry into new developments of medical science is
certain to be more or less discouraged by those who hold the
chairs in established schools. As ^e late Archbishop Whately
shrewdly and truthfully observed, *' improvements in details are
willingly accepted, but the introduction of totally new systems
inevitably encounters strenuous opposition," and he instances-
that, in the olden mode of locomotion by coaches, any improve-
ment in harness or in coach-building was accepted with avidity,
while the introduction of the new mode of locomotion (by steam and
railroad) was opposed with bitterness by all interested in coaching.
It is quite in accordance with precedent then that all who are
interested in the older methods of medical thought and teaching^
should oppose any new method which would unsettie the old
apothecary system and which should give a method of applying*
new therapeutic indications.
Now, it appears to me that the only way of assuring true liberty
of thought and action to the professors and practitioners of the
medical science and art, is to leave the candidate for the medical
license or degree the utmost possible hberty to acquire his learning
and education in any way he may select, and to make the exami-
nation of the candidate a true test as to whether he possesses-
the requisite qualifications to act as medieal adviser to the public.
Let the examination extend over a week or more if needful —
let it include examination at the bedside as to the candidate's
knowledge of disease, and the different means of praetical diagnosis-
— let it include hk knowledge of principles of treatment, and in
addition let him be well examined in all the edlateral seientifio^
and praetical aspects of surgery, midwifery, chemistry, &c.
444 COBBESPOHDBNOE. ""^^"JS??^
Btnibw, Jnlj 1, UBL
Let there also be examiofln appointed irho are well atMpiainted
with each apecial therapeutic meihod, who ahall (if asked to do
jBo) exanuDo and grant certificates in additional special subjects,
such as Hydropathy, Homoeopathy, Electricity, &c., Ac. The
range of medical science is so eztensiTe that it wonld be well
io enconrage special acquirements in those desiring to practise
speciahties.
It is not possible to do more in the scope of a short letter
ihan to gire a few short suggestions, bnt it seems to me that
each of onr societies wonld do well to discuss within themselTeB
these varied aspects under which the subject of medical education
.should be Tiewed. I feel sure you wiU open your pages to those
willing to discuss the best way of our approaching the Boyil
Commission in order to protect the rights of the profession and
.of the public against any possible encroachment.
Yours Tory sincerely,
WiLLiAH Bates, M.D.,
Hon. Sec. to London School of Homcpopathy.
68, Lansdowne Place, Brighton.
STRYCHNIA AND NITRO- STRYCHNIA.
To ihe Editors of the Monthly HamcBopathic Review.
X^ENTUEMEN, — As the so-called ''stryehnie nitrate** of the British
HonuBopaUiic Pharmacopcna^ 1870, has come into sach ex-
tensive use, and now that ^e normal ivitrate of strychnia has
been regularly proved and an account of its symptomatology
published in Allen's Encyclopadia^ it becomes important that
the attention of your medical readers should be called to the
difference of chemical composition existing between the two
preparations.
Ignoring the well-known products of the reaction of the nitrie
add and spirit of the pharmacopoeia process, this difierenee is
similar to that between glycerine and nitro-glycerine (gloneine),
ihe strong nitric acid producing a nitrate of a new base, mtro-
strychnia, the presence of which is manifested by the yellow
colour of the solution. The reaction may be represented as
follows : —
StTTchaU. Nhtic Add. NltrtHStrxchnia Nhsmtc Wafeer.
C A^.O. + 2HN63 = C.A.(N0.rN.0.,HN6, + Sfi
In view of these facts, the pharmaeopoeial solution should
always be prescribed as ''stryeh. niL B. if. P., 1870," to
distinguish it from the pure neutral salt of strychnia referred to
in the provings.
We are, Gentlemen, yours faithfully,
59, Moorgate Street, E.G. £. Gould & Son.
Jwte IBth, 1881.
iSSS^^^STmL^ CORBESPONDBNOB, 445'
MICROPATHY.
To the Editors of ike MonMy Honueopathie Beview.
Oentlbmbn, — ^It is a very oommon habit, now-a-dajs, to expect
noTelties in art and invention from onr Transatlantic neighboors ;
and, as a general role, the expectation is seldom disappointed.
Ton will not, therefore, be surprised to hear that an enterprising
Yankee has invented homoBopathy ! It appears that a Dr.
Maclean, of Washington, was some time ago attending a severe
ease of vomiting, in which all the ordinary remedies had failed.
He administered one-sixtieth of a grain of tartar emetic every
fifteen minutes, and found that it acted as an irritant of the
organ affected ; he then reduced the dose to the one-hundredth
of a grain, and soon saw that the disease was under control.
''From this time,*' he says, ''his practice was a succession of
experiments to establish tiie truth of this theory, and he soon
demonstrated that whenever a remedy irritates an organ, by^
reducing the dose to a certain point, it will act as a tonic to that
organ. This certain point, roughly stated, is about one hundredth
of the ordinary allopathic dose ; i,e.^ if the allopathic dose of
rhubarb is ten grains, the micropathic (eic) dose is one tenth to
one twelfth of a grain, but if this dose causes any irritation, it is
a symptom that the quantity given has gone beyond the tozdo-
action and must be reduced.**
Shade of Hahnemann ! Has it come to this, that, at this
time of day, a Yankee shall invent homoeopathy, and with flourish
of trumpets attempt to proclaim a new discovery in medicine 1
The only modest feature in the afi&kir is his hunting up of a
new name wherewith to christen his bantling. Micropathy,
forsooth I
Lancet^ please copy. Now is your time, another American
discovery in the realms of science to be assimilated and used as
a stepping stone for the advancement of rational medicine. One
wonders whether it is possible that honest and intelligent prac-
titioners can read all these announcements, and not see the facts
of homoeopathy, similia similibue curantur, written in large type
staring in their faces.
This present attempt to re-discover homoeopathy is too puny to
merit much notice, but the frequent recurrence of this class of
announcement in the medical and scientific press shows surely
the drift of modem thought.
The walls of Jericho fell with a deafening crash on the seventh
day of the pabrol of the Israelites. Already signs are not wanting
of a crumbling and a tottering of the walls of the tyrannical
bigotry which would try to keep homoeopathy from breathing the
pure air of freedom of thought and of literature. The final crash
is not far removed. Our attitude in the present crisis should not
be that of complacent handfolding-deprecation of publicity, nor
446 COBBESPOHDENCE* "'S^. July i, mbl
^e indiflerenee of ihe supine onlooker — ^wone often than open
enmity. More aggrestiTe honuBopaths are needed, men who can hit
hard, and who hate and are ever ready to expose cant and shams.
It only remains now for some educated Sandwich TslandeT to
invent the locomotive, and for some enlightened Znlu to be the
first expounder of the law of gravitation ! Awaiting fnither
developments, I am. Gentlemen, yours te.,
16, Montpdier Bow, A. 8. Ekiqikdt.
Blaekheath.
ARSENIC IN WALL PAPERS, &c.
To the Editort of the Monthly HomcBopathie Review,
GsNTUoiBN, — ^We must all feel indebted to Dr. Clarke for his
earnestness in bringing this vital subject before the Legislature.
Recently I was called to see a gentleman on the highest part of
Ore, near Hastings, who had been ill since October twelve
months, with intermittent symptoms, with sickness, occasional
vomiting of bile. During this time he had his usual medical
attendant, with the advantage of two consultations with cele-
brated allopaths from London.
By the desire of his sister I was called to his bed-side in
consultation with the regular attendant, who described his case
as jungle fever, for which he was giving quinine every day, and
had continued it perseveringly so long that the lady thou^t it
must be the cause, as cinchona had the power of producing such
fevers. I therefore had it discontinued, and prescribed my
favourite remedy, euciUyptus glohtdus^ which warded off the next
attack so accurately expected and calculated for by the doctor.
I looked and drove all round Ore, to see if I could see or dis-
cover any marsh or fen that would account for this jungle fever.
The neighbourhood was dry and healthy. The residence was a
little too near the cemetery, but this offered nothing unhealthy.
A week or two after my return home, letter after letter followed,
detailing daily symptoms — ^patient getting better and worse,
when I wrote to have the paper in the bed-room analysed,
although it was a very modest colour, giving no suspicions of a
deadly poison. In a few days a letter came — " The paper U
highly impregnated with arsenite of copper, which must be mo$t
injurious to ihe p<Uient,'* I accordingly ordered instant removal
to Tunbridge Wells, where the iron waters and changed air
would act as an antidote, the paper to be removed, and common
healthy whitewash to be substituted, as is my wont to recom-
mend after all contagious diseases— diphtheria, scarlet fever, &c.
On the 11th of this month I went again to see my patient,
now suffering from the debility produced by a return of the
sickness two days previously, accompanied with the usual
abdominal pains and initation in the neck and region of the
^Xm^ITSS!^ C0RBB8P0NDEN0B, 447
bladder, -with fireqnent desire to pass water. As the features
exhibited bile and poison in the blood, I instantly suggested a
light Turkish bath, with brisk shampooing on the breaking out
4>f the perspiration, so we drove to the Hydropathic Establish-
ment, and had a most enjoyable bath in well-ventilated rooms,
which re&eshed the patient and removed the yellow colour from
ihe eyes and face. Notwithstanding all this evidence, the
medical attendant is loth to acknowledge the paper poisoning by
finch small doses as could be inhaled through the lungs into the
blood. He has also seen the exact analysis, which I have the
pleasure of enclosing for the purpose of urging Government to
immediate action. For many years I have had a dread of
arsmUc or lead in paper collars, from a case of spinal debility,
approaching paralysis, which came before me for consultation.
Trusting that the medical officers of health may use their
influence and power to compel house agents and their employers
to act with justice and honesty towards their duped tenants,
I am, truly yours,
B. TUTHILL Masst, M.D.
Park Boad, BedhiU, Surrey.
May lltk, 1881.
" 64, Pabk Street, Southwark, S.E.
" London, ISth May, 1881.
*< Report of analysis of sample of wall paper received from
W. B., by the desire of Dr. Tuthill Massy, and marked by us
No. 8.
'* The surface powder scraped from the paper was digested,
together with the paper itself (cut into small pieces), in
hydrochloric acid, until the powdery substance was dissolved.
The solution was then diluted and filtered.
*' Sulphuretted hydrogen passed into the solution produced
immediately a deep yellow precipitate, which in a little time was
very copious.
" The precipitate thrown in a filter was well washed, and a
portion Rested in ammotda, which entirely dissolved it, it
being again precipitated on addition of hydrochloiic.
'' Marsh's test gave dense metallic rings, which, treated with
ammoniated nitrate of silver, produced brick-red colour, thus
demonstrating presence of arsenic. The ordinary tests gave
evidence of presence of copper.
** A sample of wall paper, received from J. S. Baker, Esq., of
Surbiton, was also found to be impregnated with arsenic to
about the same extent.
«< Analyst, EEenby Child,
** Li employ of Davt Yatbs Boutlbdov.
^' 64. Park Street, Southwark."
448 C0BBB8P0HDENT8. "S^"!S?7^
Sefinr, Joly 1, VSL.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
«% We eafmot undertake to return rejected mamueripte.
ContribatorB and ConeqMDdeiits are reqneated to notioe the alteiation
in the address of one of the Editors of this Beview,
SxTBscRiBEBS TO THE HoMCEOPATBic CoNYEiiTioN. — ^We have beard, with
mnoh regret, that onr list pnblished last month was imperfect. We had
made arrangements for a oonected list to appear on this ooeasion, bat
these haye been frustrated throng a mistake in the Post Office. We
hope to be more fortnnato next month.
Btde, Isle of Wight. — Since the death of Dr. Lovdeb, which occurred
several years ago, homcBopathic physicians, who have had patients
going to the Isle of Wight, have been at some disadvantage from there
not having been a homcBopathio pxactitioner there. This want has, we
are happy to be able to state, been folly met by Mr. Machutt, who has
recently settled in practice at Byde, and has made arrangements for
seeing patients at Vontnor and Newport. A Homoeopathic Dispensaiy
has idso been set on foot.
Eablsbad. — As some of oar readers may be intending to visit this well-
known watering-place daring the summer, it may be a convenience to-
them to be informed that there are two homoBopathic physicians there,
Dr. Thbodob Kafka, and Dr. LoiOKm.
Gommonications, fte., have been received from Dr. Jaoiblsei,
Dr. Waleeb and Mr. Jahbs Epps (London); Dr. Bates (Brighton);
Dr. Shabp (Bngby) ; Dr. Hatwabd (Liverpool) ; Dr. £. M. Maddek
(Birmingham); Dr. E. Williaxs (Clifton); Dr. Masst (Bedhill);
Dr. Wielobtcxi (Edinburgh); Dr. Bamsbothax (Leeds); Dr. Abihub
Ebnkedt (Blackheath).
BOOKS RECEIVED,
On Diseates of the Nervous SysUm, By 0. P. Hart, M.D. New York :
Boericke & Tafel. London: HomcBopathio Publishing Co. 1881.—
Treatise on Diseases Peculiar to Infants and Children. By W. A
Edmunds, M.D. New York : BoSricke <t Tafel. London : The Homao-
pathic Publishing Company. — Physicians and Homceopatky, A Reply to a
Letter in the '* Leeds Mercury" from a Leeds Surgeon. By S. H.
Bamsbotham, M.D., <&c. London: Simpkin & Marshall. — Critical
Examination of the Encyclopadia of Materia Medica hy T. F. AUen, MJD.
New York : Boericke & Tafel. — The Homccopathie World, London.
The Chemist and Druggist, London. — The Students' Journal, London. —
The English Mechanic. London. — The AnH-Vivisectionist. London. — The
New England Medical Gazette, Boston. — The Hahnemannian Monthly*
Philadelphia.— r^ New York Medical Times. New Yoik.—The United
States Medical Investigator, Chicago. — The Clinique. Chicago. — VArt
Medical. Paris. — Bulletin de la Soc, Horn, de France^ Paris.—
Revue Horn. Beige. Bruzelles. — UHomaopathique Militante. Bmxelles.
— Allg. Horn. Zeitung. Leipsic. — Homdopathische Bundschau. Leipsic
— El Criterio Medico. Madrid. — Boletino Clinico del Instituto Homao-
patico de Madrid. — Rivista Omnopatica. Borne. — La Ref&rma Medico.
Mexico. — The Argus Newspaper. Melbourne.
Papers, Dispensaiy Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. Pope, 21, Henrietta Street, Cavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D, Drcs'
Bbown, 29, Seymour Street, Port man Square, W. Advertisements and
Business Communications to be sent to Messrs. E. Gotjld & SoHr
59, Moorgate Street, E.C.
iS^^rrSaL*" HOMCBOPATHIO CONVENTION. 449
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW-
THE INTEKNATIONAL HOMOEOPATHIC
CONVENTION.
LONDON, 1881.
This important meetmgy which has been anticipated for so
long by many of ns, the preparations for which haye occn-
pied so mnch of the time and thought of some, is now an
event of the past. Happily the retrospect it affords is one
of nndilnted satisfaction, of nnalloyed pleasure. Barely, if
ever, has a gathering of the kind occurred which has left
behind it so many pleasant memories.
If onr hopes had been pitched somewhat too high regard-
ing the nnmber of those of our coUeagnes who would yisit
ns from abroad, those who did giye us the pleasure of
offering them a hearty British welcome were precisely those
we were most desirous of seeing amongst us, while we were
assured that very many others, who would right gladly haye
yisited our shores, were detained by circumstances entirely
beyond their control.
' From a scientific point of view especially, the meeting
was a success of a high order. Limited as the subjects
were to the influence of homoeopathy up<m the practice of
medicine and surgery, the papers presented gave evidence
No. 8, Vol. 85. 2 a
450 HOMGEOPATHIC CONVENTION. ^bSSJ^STm.
of that increase of original thought, of careful and un-
hiassed criticism which has so markedly characterised the
work of homoBopathic physicians of later times. The
respect in which we hold the work accomplished by
Hahnemann, the reverence with which we regard his
memory, is far from being diminished — is rather increased
by the critical investigations to which the resnlts of his
labours, and the conclusions he evolved from his untiring
study of therapeutics, have, in these latter days, been sub-
jected. The day has gone, and gone for ever, when a
homodopath is supposed to be obliged in verba magisin
jurare. Scarcely one single paper presented at this Con-
vention can be quoted, in which the critical fELculty did not
find full expression when discussing propositions ema-
nating from the 'works of TTahnemeann and of his earlier
disciples. The discoveries of modern science, while they
have confirmed much that in the writings of Hahnbicank
At one time appeared doubtful to many minds, have, in
other instances, tended to prove that the great practical
therapeutist was in error. These spots on the great lumi-
nary of therapeutics detract not one jot from his reputation
as the man who, of all others, has exerted the widest and
most powerful influence upon the modem drug-treatment
of disease. They were the necessary consequences of the
state of science when he was in the prime of life — ^now
'eighty years ago !
The meetings were appropriately opened by an Address
from the Pbesident, Scholarly in style, graceful in
expression, replete with feeling of the purest type» Dr.
Hughes appealed, as he is ever wont to do, not only to
the heads, but to the hearts of his audience, and gave a
tone to the proceedings which was sustained to the last.
The reports of the progress of homoaopathy in America,
and in the various Continental States, afibrded fgratifpng
IS^r-aS^nSSu^ HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION. 451
^▼idence of the increasing appreciation in which the
therapeutic method, we are endeaTonring to make more
widely known and more clearly nnderstood, is held.
The speeches which followed showed that the circum-
stances of each country render different plans of action
requisite in each in advancing the interests of homoe-
opathy. About the importance of public teaching, of
extending hospitals and dispensaries, and of still further
improving our literature, there was no dispute. The only
questions raised were, as to how each method might be
Adapted to the exigencies of each country. Union in
whatever is practicable was strongly urged.
In another part of this number we give brief abstracts
of the papers read. We regret that our space does not
allow of our reproducing the discussions which took place.
The papers in extenso, with full reports of the debates,
will appear in the Transactions. These, collected in one
volume, may be confidently looked for within a very few
weeks. We would urge all our colleagues, and indeed
everyone interested in the progress of homoeopathy, to at
once subscribe for a copy. Names of those who desire to
do so will be received by Dr. Hughes.
Independently of the scientific interest attaching to a
gathering of the kind which has just occurred in our midst,
is the great advantage which accrues from men, who in
different parts of the world are engaged in the same work,
axe endeavouring in various ways to forward the same
interests, becoming personally acquainted with one another.
Thus, on the present occasion, we had with us Dr. Satt^bb,
of Monroe, in Michigan, to whose energy we owe it, in
great part, that homoeopathy is taught in the University
of that State ; Dr. Talbot, of Boston, the Dean of the
medical faculty of the Boston University, and one of the
pillars of homoeopathy in the United States ; Drs. Daee,
2
452 HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION. ^"^^^^T!^^
Beyiew, Aug. !• 1881.
of Nashyille, and Conbad We8selh(eft, of Boston, whose
thorough and careful investigationB of many matters of
poBological dispute have contributed greatly towards
bringing us within ^'measurable distance of a rational
solution of the * dose question ; ' " Drs. Helmuth, of New
York, and McClelland, of Pittsburgh, whose reputation as^
surgeons has extended beyond the limits of their own
country ; while from France we had the pleasure of wel-
coming Drs. Claude and LfeoN SmoN, fihy of Paris —
names well known to us all as contributors to medieal
literature; Dr. Meyhoffeb, of Nice, a physician long
known and respected in this country ; Dr. Yon Dittxakn,
of St. Petersburgh, one of the most cultiyated of Russian
physicians ; to meet these and many others, to discuss
points of conmion interest with them, and to listen to
their views on questions regarding the progress and
extension of homoeopathy, was a source of much advantage
to us all.
, One of the objects set out in the programme as being
held in view by the Convention was that of cementing
friendly union. Never do we remember a meeting at
which this very desirable result was more fully or more
completely attained. And this not only between British,.
American, and Continental homoBopathists, but more
especially amongst ourselves. We have had many sharp
discussions during the last few years — discussions which
have excited considerable feeling — and have been produc-
tive of most undesirable and uncalled-for dissensions,
i We trust that our assembling together in debate and in
i social union during that hot week of last month will have
i as one of its many valuable results the obliteration of any
unkindly feeling that may have been generated by past
I disputes ; and that the International Homoeopathic Con-
I vention of 1881 may be signalised as the occasion oa
ii:^S^f:'S^ OURB OF DISEASES. 453
which a fall and complete nnioii of all homoeopathic
physicians in this country, in making a strenaons effort to
advance the interests of homceopathy, to increase a know-
ledge of the therapeutic method developed bv Hahnemann
b7every practicaWe meauB within ou? rea^ was fuUy
accomplished.
In union is strength ; and by united effort, by the sink-
ing of individual crotchets, by loyally carrying out the
views and wishes of the majority, by earnestly endeavour-
ing to improve and develop our homoeopathic institutions,
we shall, in due course, accomplish the end we have ever
had in view, the indoctrmating of the entire profession of
medicine with the great truths expressed in the word
HOMGBSOPATHY.
THE CURE OP DISEASES BY MEDICINES.
By WnjiiAM Sharp, M.D., F.B.S.
•<Le8 soienoes natmeUeB ont eu, oomine lliistoire, lean tempB fabnleux.
L'astronomie a commence par rastrologie ; la chimie n'etait nagadre que
Valchemie ; la physique n'a M long-temps qn'trne vaine rSanion de
sjratdmes absuxdes ; la physiologie, qn'on long et fastidienz roman ; la
medicine, qa'on amas de pr6jug6s en&nUs par Pignorance et la erainte de
la mort, &o., &c. Singnlidre condition de Pesprit hamain, qui semble
avoir besoin de s'exercer long-temps siir des errenrs avant d'oaer aborder
la T^rit^ 1 '* — Majxxcdib.
The world is saturated with sickness and death. It is
our familiarity with these painful events which makes them
not more alarming to us than they are. Nevertheless, in
all civilised nations it is the duty of certain men, who have
been set apart for it by a serious student life, to endeavour
to cure sickness, and to stave off death. This is the
benevolent duty of the medical profession, and the reason
for its existence. To aim at the improvement of the edu-
cation for this great duty is the design of this Paper.
The task for which medical students are to be prepared
in an extremely difficult one, and it is of the first moment
that they should be encouraged to fit themselves for it by
every hopeful thought. They are to believe in the pre-
ventibility and curability of disease. They are to learn
that knowledge is power ; and that, were their knowledge
perfect, their power would be equal to the emergencies of
their duty, and that then they might hope i^^at their
patients would die only of old age. And though this
perfect knowledge cannot be attained, it may be held up
before them as the object to be aimed at.
454 CXTBE OF DIBEABE8, ^b^^SSSTS^
They are to be encouraged to lay aside all methods of
treatment of an indirect kind: for example, the use of
medicines which act on the healthy parts, on the principle
of revulsion or counter-irritation. They are to seek
remedies which act npon the diseased parts, and which cure
in a direct manner.
They are to understand that diseases are the result of
the meeting together of two causes — a predisposing cause
and an exciting cause ; and inasmuch as all predisposing
causes and all exciting causes act locally, that all disei^es
are local ; and, consequently, that all diseases can have a
direct local treatment.
Now, it is admitted on all hands that while anatomy^
physiology, and pathology, as well as such helping branches
of knowledge as botany, mechanics, and chemistry, have
assumed the form of sciences, the condition of therapeutics
— the ultimate aim of all medical knowledge — is in the
highest degree unsatisfactory. If the matter may be put
plainly, we have had medicines given us to cure the sick,
and we have not yet learned how to use them. This is a
great reproach, and as the fault cannot be laid to the charge
of want either of talent or of industry, it argues an error in
the methods pursued. When students have discovered
this, they cannot but desire and look out for some new
method, which shall be more certain and more successful.
It is wished to invite their attention to some of the
results of a long and practical study of the action of drugs^
with reference to the use of them as remedies in disease.
And seeing that these remarks are offered to students, it is
hoped that none will be offended if they are elementary. I
remember Majendie, in one of his lectures on physiology,
fifty-four years ago, standing silent for a moment, and then
saying something like this : '^ Gentlemen, we mast be
willing to begin at the beginning ; to begin as if we knew
nothing about physiology ; and to try to instruct ourselves
in rudimentary facts ! "
And let us go direct to the question at issue — ^the cure of
diseases by medicines. For diseases are urgent ; death is
not distant ; the physician's own life is short ; therefore
time presses, and we cannot afford to travel in a circuitous
lane shut up by customary banks and hedges, and having
no visible end ; nor on the gravelled path of a park, whose
iSssy^ra^ c^m pg diseases, 455
tnnimgs are guided hj fashion* We most go as the crow
flies.
We suffer from diseases, and we have had medicines
given us for their cure ; but between the course of diseases
and the action of medicines there is a chasm which has
not yet been bridged over. Consequently, it has to be
confessed that upon the use of medicines the profession
has neither settled opinions nor satisfied feelings. The
consciousness of this chasm never was so clear as at the
present time, and it follows that doubt, uncertainty, and
even scepticism in the efficacy of medicines, never were so
prevalent as they are now ; this is the dark side. But every
subject has two sides, and the other side of this is a bright
one, for it is a hopeful opportunity to start afresh on a new
path.
It is known to all, that for more than two thousand years
physicians have laboured unweariedly to bridge over this
chasm by theories of disease. It is equally well known that
all this labour has ended in a failure.
It is also known that during the early period of this
time, and still more during tibe latest, there has been
among physicians an empirical school, the fundamental
principle of which is that '*each remedy which has cured
one disease must also cure analogous diseases." A propo-
sition possessing, in the opinion of these thinkers, all the
clearness and infallibility of a mathematical problem. Two
facts are fatal to this method. (1). It leaves a very large
number of diseases without any remedy whateyor. (2). It
offers no assistance towards finding any remedies for them.
This school contents itself with thinking that the chasm
between diseases and remedies canjiot be bridged over.
Thus it appears that through long ages speculative
physicians have striven to carry a bridge across this gulf,
and have failed. Speculation without experiment must
always fail ; it is little better than dreaming. On the other
hand, practical physicians have comforted themselves with
the thought that no bridge can be built over the gulf, and
have satisfied themselves with accident and observation.
But accident and observation without experiment must also
fail. Such work is a miserable trudging round in a trodden
circle in which progress is impossible. Before either specu-
lation or observation can be accepted it must be verified by
experiment. A question arises — what kind of experiment ?
Not experiments on the sick ; these have been tried to the
u.
456 CURB or diseases. "^S^^SSIImm!
uttermost and have failed. The question is repeated — what
kind of experiment ?
During the present century two experimental schools
have been actively — nay, enlhusiasticfdly at work. The
endeavour of one is to found the treatment of sickness on
the facts of physiology and pathology. This school accepts
as its method experiments on the lower animals in health.
The other school does not rest on a physiological and
pathological foundation, but on the knowledge of tibe symp-
toms of disease and of drug action. Its method is experi-
ments on ourselves in health; and its therapeutics are
founded on a comparison of the symptoms of diseases with
the symptoms thus produced by drugs taken in health. It
will help to explain the purpose of this Paper if a few
remarks are offered upon these two methods.
The first, often called the physiological method, which
is founded upon experiments on the lower animals, puts
forward a claim to a degree of certainty and precision not
hitherto met with in therapeutics. By its experiments on
living and healthy animals it hopes to learn the true action
of drugs, and in this way to ^scover the cases in which
each should be used, and the objects for which it should
be prescribed. Very great zeal and labour have been
devoted to this pursuit, but the results have not been in
proportion to them. Some old medicines have been
examined in this manner, and a few new ones have been
added to the Materia Medica. Two remarkable poisons
have been selected to illustrate this mode of experiment
and prescription. These are upas (teute, not antiar,) and
curare. Upas causes convulsions; curare, paralysis.
Upas, therefore, is prescribed for paralysis; curare for
convulsions. In both instances careful distinctions are
made as to the precise kinds of convulsions and paralysis
which are caused by these poisons, and elaborate anatomical
details have been prosecuted to discover the exact actions
of each of them. Chemical analysis of the upa>s shows
that it contains strychnine, which produces similar con-
vulsions ; but the analysis of curare reveals no strychnine.
Now, the recent publication by Dr. Ed. Schomburgk, giving
the best information yet communicated as to the production
and composition of curare, tells us that it is obtained by
the natives of Guiana from eight trees, several of which
are strychnos trees. The preparation of curare by these
people is a complicated and superstitious process, and it
bS^JSTUSS!^ cube of DIBBASB8, 457
may be that the strychnine, whieh must exist at the com-
mencement of the process, becomes before the end of it
so redaced in quantity as to elude detection by our present
chemicid analysis. Should this be the true condition, the
contrary effects of upaa and curare are the contrary effects
of larger and smaller doses of the same drug. It may be
that there is some drug in curare of which we know
nothing. Only further experiments can throw light into
this darkness.
And with regard to the use of these two drugs as
medicines, which have thus been put forward as successful
examples of the physiological method based on experiments
-on animals, it must be remembered: (1) That we know
nothing accurately of their mode of preparation ; (2) That
we have no assurance of uniformity in the preparations
themselves ; (8) That we are not sufficiently acquainted
with their composition ; (4) That we are quite uncertain
as to any uniformity in this composition ; (5) That we
have not sufficient certainty that their action on man is the
same as that on frogs ; (6) And that we have no knowledge
of the doses, and their different actions. Until these
conditions are altered, such dangerous poisons cannot be
used as medicines either extensively or safely. This is the
first or physiological method, founded on experiments in
health on the lower animals. When it is tried by the
final court of appeal — ^the amount of its success in curing
disease — ^the judgment is unfavourable.
The second method, that of experiments upon our-
selves in health, and the careful registration of all the
symptoms produced, without reference to physiology or
pathology, has also been pursued with much enthusiasm.
Besides an experimental examination of the drugs we
already possess, some hundreds of new substances have
been added to the Materia Medica. In this school the
study of diseases is to be carried on in the same manner,
and a similar collection of symptoms is to be made. The
therapeutics consist in finding for the picture of symptoms
which each patient presents, a similar picture among the
symptoms which have been produced by drugs taken in
health. The drug which is found to correspond with the
patient's symptoms is to be given in small doses, as the
best remedy which can be found. This course of pro-
ceeding appears superficial, and, therefore, notwithstanding
its remarkable success in practice, it fails to satisfy the
468 CUBE OF DIBBA8BB. ^bS^SS^u^-
medical mindy which crayes for flomething more like
Bcience, and something more to jnstify the existence of a
medical profession. It is tme that many members of this
school have made great efforts to combine pathology with
the treatment by symptoms, but with only partial snccess ;
for, so long as tiie results of the experiments on which the
practice is based remain in their present form, the extent
to which this combination can be carried is Tery limited.
Students will now see that another method is demanded.
They know that at the present time two schools are very
earnestly engaged in experiments ; the first in experiments
on living animals in health, with special regard to physio*
logy and pathology ; the second in experiments on man in
health, with regard to symptoms only. Sooner or later
they will know the deficiencies of both these undertakings.
Their attention is now called to a third method of experi-
ment, which is to be briefly explained in this Paper. It
consists of one-half of each of the other two. Like the
first, it has special regard to physiology and pathology, but
it repudiates experiments on the lower animals. Like the
second, its experiments are upon ourselves, but it seeks to
learn from these experiments, and from cases of poisoning,
both the seat of the action and its kind. This method,
therefore, supplies something more, which may satisfy the
desire of the professional mind. An outline only is admis-
sible on the present occasion, and this may be sketched by
considering (1) How to study this method ; (2) The results
already obtained from it ; (3) How to use these results in
practice.
I. — How to study this Method.
It is to be taken for granted that the student has
acquired the best knowledge of the structure and functions
of all the organs of tiie body which anatomy and
physiology can teach him, along with a sufficient acquaint-
ance with the collateral branches of science. He then
meets n^ith disease, and has to undertake its cure. To do
this he must have some method; that now proposed
requires to be diligently studied.
It has already been remarked, that disease results from
the meeting of two causes — one called the predisposingy
the other the exciting cause. Each of these demands a
separate study.
l£rtS?lSn«?' OTOE OP DISEASES. 45*
1. Preduposition, — This is local, and belongs to each
organ of the body. It deserves more careful study than
it has yet received. Each organ has its own structure and
functions ; its own conditions of health ; its own disorders
and diseases, even* its own kind of inflammation ; and its
own modes of recovery ; and necessarily, therefore, its own
predispositions, and which are subject to much variety..
Predisposition is a field of science, and it ought to be
cultivated as such. A few words on one organ, as an
example of what is meant, may be of service. Let the
student take the heart, and look at its possible predisposi-
tions. Its muscular fibres involve a liability to such
structural changes as growth or emaciation, specially in
the walls of the ventricles, which are liable to thickening
and thinning ; and to such functional changes as increased
or diminished frequency in their contractions or beats, and
the greater or less strength or volume of these ; its cavities
are Uable to alterations of size, to diminution or dilatation ;
its valves to softening or hardening ; its coronary arteries
and veins to inflammation, congestion, and all other
derangements of the circulation of the blood ; its nerves to
increased or lessened sensibility. It follows that in
making a diagnosis relating to a morbid condition of the
heart, the student will ascertain, if he can, towards which
of these liabilities there has been an undue tendency, by
which the equihbrium of health has been disturbed, and a
predisposition acquired. And this, which is true of the
heart, is true of every organ of the body.
In experiments on ourselves in health with drugs, the
same attention has to be given. The organ where the
action takes place must be studied in regard to the possible
predispositions of its structure and functions; and the
existing predisposition is to be noticed as one of the two
causes, by the conjunction of which the effects observed
have been produced.
2. Exciting Cause. — The action of all the common
exciting causes of disease is also local, and in every case
demands from the student careful investigation. These
causes are individualised, and their effects explained in all
our standard works on the practice of medicine.
In experiments on ourselves in health the exciting cause
is the drug we are taking. We are to know enough of
this to be clear about its obtainment or preparation, and
the permanency of its composition, so that others may be^
460 CUBE OF DISEASES. ^^S^^A^uSS.
able to experiment on the identical substance. We are to
take it in a known dose, to observe its effects, to note
their snccessiou, to ascertain as accurately as we can the
whereabouts of its action, and its kind of action; and
having noticed the predisposing cause, to record the whole
just as we should a case of illness from any other cause.*
At other times we are to experiment with the same drug
in different doses, and to note whether the action is in the
same or in some other locality, and whether it is of the
same or of a different kind.
It will be objected that we cannot carry these experi-
ments on ourselves fax enough ; that we are not to kill
ourselves with a drug and be dissected, that the morbid
anatomy of its action may be learned. It is replied : This
is not necessaiy. Opportunities of learning the patho-
logical changes of structure produced by the more powerful
drugs are furnished by the cases of poisoning which occur
from accident or intention; and which, unhappily, are
more frequent than is required for this purpose.
n. — The remdts already obtained from this Method.
1. In all time past, when drugs have been given to men,
they have been given to them when sick. The phenomena
caused by their action were, therefore, always obscured by
the phenomena of the disease with which they were mixed.
In experiments with drugs on healthy persons this compU-
cation is avoided. In all time coming, the true action of
each drug may in this manner be ascertained with clear-
ness and certainty. This is the first result.*
2. It is proved by these experiments in health that each
drug has an action pecuUar to or characteristic of itself.
This action is adapted to the predisposition of some organ
or organs of the body ; the two fit each other. The effects
which follow the talong of the drug are the produce of this
mutual fitness. This is the second result.
8. The third result is also one of great moment. It is
the truth of a general fact of great practical value, namely,
that all drugs have a local action ; they act on some organ
or organs, or parts of an organ of the body, in preference
to others. From giving m^icines to the sick this fact has
* This forms the subject of Essay XVI., a Paper read at the Meeting oi
the British Association for the Adoaneement of Science, held at Nottrngluun
in 1866.
ta^SSTS^ ^3™® O^ DISEASES. 461
long been partially known. It is now proved by experi*
ments in health, tiiat the aotion of every dmg is local,
and by experiments in health and in illness, that it is in
the same part, whether that part is healthy or sick.
4. The fourth result, like the others, is of great prac*
tical importance. Each dmg, in certain larger and smaller
groups of doses, has two kinds of action — ^the one contrary
to the other. Between these larger and smaller doses
there is an intermediate group, having actions apparently
irregular, of both these contrary kinds. Sometimes like that
of the larger doses, sometimes like that of the smaller.
These actions are governed by predisposition, and are
made irregular by its variations. As this fourth result has
not yet been generally received, it may be well to give
students a few examples of it from experiments in healthy
as illustrations, and, as far as they go, as proofs : —
Action on the Heart. — ^The larger doses of aconite
increase the heart's action and quicken the pulse; the
smaller doses diminish its action and make the pulse
slower. The larger doses of digitalis weaken the heart's
aotion ; the smaller doses strengthen it. The larger doses
o{ phosphorus quicken the heart's beats ; the smaller doses
slow ihem.
Action on the Pupil. — ^The strong tincture of belladonna
rubbed over the eyebrows dilates the pupil ; a weak tinc-
ture applied in the same manner contracts the pupil. The
tincture of physostigma (Calabar bean) applied in the
same manner produces the reverse effects : the strong
tincture contracts the pupil ; the weak tincture dilates it.
Action on the Stomach. — ^The larger doses of arsenic
destroy the appetite ; the smaller doses exaggerate it.
Action on the Liver, — The larger doses of chamomiUa
diminish the secretion of bile ; the smaller doses increase
it. Contrary actions of a similar kind are produced by
wyrica (bayberry), and by mercury.
Action on the Bowels. — The larger doses of arsenic,
mercury y and castor oil cause diarrhosa ; the smaller ones
constipation. Bryonia and opium act in the reverse
manner; the larger doses constipate the bowels; the
smaller ones relax them.
Action on the Brain. — The larger doses of opium
oppress the brain; the smaller excite it. For further
details on this subject former Essays must be referred to.
462 OTTRB OF DISEASES. ^bTSS.^SIIuibS!
in. — How to use these results in practice*
The student having ascertained, as correctly as he can,
the seat and kind of disease in the case before him, the
following rules of treatment may be suggested for his
guidance : —
1. Study the predispositions of the parts affected. Pre-
disposition is local. Each organ has its own predispositions.
What these are may be learned with certainty by under-
standing three things : first, the structure of the parts ;
second, their functions; third, the predispositions now
showing themselves.
Their structure. This will be best explained by taking
some organ as an example. The heart has already been
used for illustration ; let us now take the brain. Here we
see the peculiar structure of the cerebral substance, and of
the nerves proceeding from it ; the blood-vessels, arterial
and venous ; the membranes, &c. The cerebral substance
is of such delicate and minute workmanship that we cannot
learn its final condition, and are obliged to content ourselves
with obscure notions respecting it and its changes ; we can,
however, perceive that it may become harder or softer. Of
the circulation we can see that there may be dilatation or
contraction either of the arteries or of the veins ; that they
may contain an increased or diminished quantity of blood ;
and that this fluid may move faster or slower than in
Jiealth. We can also notice that the membranes may be
thickened, and that the ai*achnoid may become white ; that
the cavities may have a fluid in them ; and that there may
be blood outside the vessels. The structure of all the other
organs must be studied in the same manner.
Their functions. Continuing our reference to the brain,
we are to notice that the functions of the cerebral substance
are connected with the mind ; that they admit of exaltation,
depression, or perversion ; that there may be increased,
diminished, or perverted sensation ; increased, diminished,
or perverted will and voluntary motion. The functions of
pther organs are to be similarly observed."
It will be understood that when the balance between the
different parts of the structure of an organ and between its
various functions is perfect, there is not predisposition but
health. When the balance is overthrown and there is a
leaning to any side — ^that leaning is the predisposition.
While this leaning remains the same, many different
exciting causes will produce the same disease ; this is the
SSS^aST^Sm!' eilM OV M8BA8E8. 468
xeyerse condition of those cases in which the same exciting
•cause produces different diseases in persons having different
leanings.
The predigpositioTis showing ikemseloes in the patient. It
is not only possible, but generally easy to observe these.
For example : the student is called suddenly to a patient
who has fallen down in a state of insensibility or coma, with
laborious breathing, a bounding pulse, and a flushed face ^
in medical language in a fit of apoplexy* If he will analyse
these symptoms and separate the exciting from the pre-
^sposing cause, he may find that the exciting cause has
been heat, or cold, or muscular exertion, or mental agita-
tion, or some other cause (not including poisoning, as by
alcohol or opium) ; and that the predisposing cause has
"been a leaning to distension of the veins in the brain, and
to retardation of the flow of blood through them ; the result
of the two causes being a condition to which the term con"
gestion is applied.
2. Study the action of drugs as seen in experiments on
ourselves in health. We have learned from these ex*
periments that each drug has a characteristic action, which
in its degree is dependent upon predisposition ; that this
action is on particular parts only, and so is local ; and that
it has two contrary kinds of action in larger or smaller
doses. Let us now help the student with his case of
apoplexy. He must first look for the drugs whose local
action is in the brain ; he will find several, as belladonna,
stramonium, opium, &c. He is next to examine these as
to the particular parts of the brain where their action is
most visible; and then as to their kind of action. He
finds that belladonna acts mainly on the arterial circula-
tion, causing in certain larger doses, inflammation ; that
stramonium acts on the cerebral substance and nerves,
causing in the larger doses, convulsions; and that opium
acts mainly on the venous circulation, causing in the
larger doses, congestion. Now our student is happy. He
knows that certain smaller doses of each drug act in the
same locality as the larger doses, but in the contrary
direction. He knbws that dmgs in any doses will at least
try to act in disease as they act in health. He knows
that the larger doses of opium act on the venous circulation
of the brain and cause congestion, and that the smaller
doses will act in the contrary manner; therefore, he has
found the remedy for his case of apoplexy; he gives it,
464 OH DTBHSNOBBHiEA. ^^I^^S^^T!i^,
perhaps only can pat it with difficulty into his patient's
month ; and, if his experience shall be like mine, he will
have the intense pleasure of seeing his patient recover —
perhaps rapidly recover.
This, it seems to me, is the bridge which reaches across
the golf between diseases and their remedies. It is now
seen to rest, on one side of the gulf, on local predisposi-
tion; and on the other, on the local action of drugs*
When this bridge has been pat in requisition by tiie
medical profession, Sydenham's yearnings for a method
''fixed, definite, and consummate," will be accomplished.
The statements made in this paper are believed to be,
not opinions hni facts* It is obvious that such statements
cannot be disproved by arguments, but only by more
numerous and more accurate experiments. These ex-
periments being upon ourselves call for the exercise of
some self-denifid ; in return they give us an acquaintance
with the action and use of medicines which cannot be
obtained in any other way.
Rugby, April 14th, 1881.
ON DYSMENORRHCEA.*
By D. DvGE BnowN, MA., M.D.
[Continued from Page 846).
This passage from Dr. Barnes does not give the sufferer or
student much encouragement to look to allopathy.
Let us then see what homoeopathy can offer.
The medicines which are of most value in relieving the
pains of dysmenorrhoea at the time of the pain are derived
chiefly from the '' new " American remedies.
Foremost, perhaps, in importance is the gelseminum
sempervirens. This medicine has a remarkable action on
the cerebro-spinal nerves, and through it upon muscular
tissue, voluntary and involuntary, details of which you will
hear fully described by my esteemed colleague. Dr. Pope,
and I therefore, with this general statement, pass on to
notice its bearing on the subject in hand.
It is one of those medicines which are now being adopted
largely by allopaths (without ever, of course, hinting that
it has been in use by homoeopaths for years), in neuralgia
of the face and teeUi, &c., but they seem not yet to have
* Being one of a Goime of Lecfcues on I^aotiee of Medioine, deUvend
at the London Bohool of Homoaopathy.
S^AiSTi^" ON DYSMENOBBHCEA. 465
"discovered" its great value in relieving the pains of
dysmenorrhcea. As with many of the " new " remedies,
the provings in women are scanty, and in the provings of
geUeminum the only symptom indicating its use in dys-
menorrhoBa is " severe, sharp labour-like pains in the
uterine region, extending to- the back and hips.*' This
is part of a long symptom, which is reported as
follows : — " Severe pain in the forehead and vertex, with
dimness of vision ; roaring in the ears ; a sensation of
enlargement of the head, and a 'wild feeling,' a com-
pression, almost amounting to delirium ; the pain in the
bead, which was of a pressing, heavy nature, would at
times disappear, the concomitant symptoms being at the
same time ameliorated, and severe, sharp, labour-like pains
would set in in the uterine region, extending to the back
and hips ; these pains would in turn leave, and the pain in
the head would recur immediately after." This fully
described symptom points to the neuralgic character of the
uterine pain of gelseminum. Clinically, it has been found of
the greatest service, and in my own experience I find it a
medicine which could not be dispensed with. It is very
rarely that it does not give marked relief, and in fact I may
say that I in the majority of cases prescribe it first, and
seldom have to use any other medicines.
The cases in which it is useful are principally the neuralgic
and congestive varieties. We know the marked power of
gelseminum on the spinal cord, and the spinal nerves, and in
relieving spasm and neuralgic pain generally. In cases of
neuralgic dysmenorrhoea, in which spasm and neuralgia are
combined, it will almost infallibly relieve the pain very
rapidly. Cases I have seen over and over again, where the
pain has been most intense, and where hot brandy and water
had been resorted to, after failure of all allopathic remedies,
till a species of drowsy intoxication was induced, and
when, under the use of geUeminum the pain was in a very
short time reduced to a trifling amount, ''hardly worth
speaking of," as is often remarked. I generally prescribe
the Ix dilution, 6 drops to be taken as soon as the pain is
is felt, and repeated. every half-hour till the pain has
gone. One or two doses will often do all that is
required, and seldom more than four or five doses are
necessary. If this should not succeed as expected^
I should give the mother-tincture, one or two drop
doses in the same way. These last doses have never, in
No. 8, ycH 25. 2 H
466 ON DTSMENORRHOEA, *SS2^.^T!S!
my experience, produced any disagreeable head symptoms.
One lady, on her own responsibility, took 15 drops
at once of the ^, with almost instantaneous relief, and no
disagreeable effects in other parts of the body. As a role,
however, the Ix dilution is sufficient.
2. In congestive dysmenorrhoea it is equally valuable, and
may be given in the same way.
8. Even in well-marked mechanical dysmenorrhoea I
have seen it of such marked effect .in the Ix dilution, given
in the above way, that operation was rendered unnecessary.
One of the most marked and unmistakable cases of this
kind, I had two years ago. A lady who had had no family
had all her life been subject to intense dysmenorrhoaa. The
pain had been perfectly agonising during the whole period.
it quite prostrated her, so that she dreaded her monthly
sneering. She told me that she had had the cervix dilated
by one of the first gynsBCologists in Ireland, with only
temporary benefit. She then had it incised by one of the
leading gynsecologists in London, with decided relief for
three or four years, but that latterly it had become as bad
AS ever. I could not get the point of the ordinary sound
into the os externum, nor even the point of Barnes' flexible
sound. With the use of gels. Ix the pain became so trifling
that it was nothing to speak of, and passed off soon. I saw
her a year after, and she told me that with the medicine she
really had no pain to speak of. I relate this case, because
its nature was indubitable, while the results of internal
treatment were equally so, and this after the failure of
both dilatation and incision. As she is now within a few
jears of the menopause, she has dismissed all idea of
further operation, which she had contemplated. GeU. is
certainly an incalculable boon to the female sex.
The symptoms which I have found indicating gelse^ninum
Are described shortly in the pathogenetic symptoms I
quoted. The patient does not feel the pain confined to the
uterine region, but it goes from there to the back, where it
is felt severely, and all round the pelvis, and dovm the
thighs, and has the forcing down character prominently, as
well as the severe indescribable aching.
The next remedy I have to mention is caulophyllum, — a
medicine I have already had occasion to speak of. It was
known to the American aborigines and the original settlers
as ^* squaw-root,'' from its proved value in female com*
plaints. Unfortunately we have no provings of it by
SSjSSf^STS!^" ON DYSMENORRHCEA. 467
women, so we are obliged to resort for our knowledge of it
to the clinical results. These, which have been extensiye,
show that caulaphyllum has a specific affinity for the uterus.
In full doses it seems, so far, to resemble secdU in its
iiction ; producing severe labour pains, increasing feeble
pains, and in small doses (its proper homcQopathic action) it
relieves spasmodic, irregular, or over-severe pains, prevents
abortion when threatened, and relieves the pains of
4ysmeDorrh(Ba. Its value in the latter is now well known,
and, for myself, I value it next to gelseminwm. It is indi-
cated by the same class of symptoms, and in the neuralgic
And congestive varieties ; and I have found it succeed when
gelseminum had failed to yield the result I expected. I
have generally given it in the mother-tincture, gttj., every
half-hour till pain is relieved, which it usually is quickly.
I well remember the first case in which I prescribed it.
A young lady had suffered ever since the onset of the
period with severe dysmenorrhoeal pain. Her mother said
she had to go to bed the first two days, and used to roll in
agony during the first day. I prescribed the caulo-
phyUum (p as described. I happened to be in the house
the next day, when her mother asked me if I had given her
an opiate, as after the first dose, she had fallen asleep, and
after a good sleep had got up quite free of pain, the first
time such a thing had occurred.
Nearly equal in value is xanthoxylum fraxineum,
the prickly ash. In the provings we have unmistakable
evidences of its power to produce dysmenorrhoea. In one
prover, the menses came on a week before the time,
and with '' a good deal of pain.'' In another, it came on
two days before time, and was proceeding quietly, when,
after taking twenty drops of the tincture, the following is
reported : '' all the system quiet, with an unnatural forcing
of nature ; went to sleep as usual, and woke in dreadftd
distress and pain, baffling description ; profuse flowing ;
the pain, or agony, continued till noon of next day, when
it gradually subsided." Dr. Hale, in his ''New Bemedies,"
says he has given this medicine in dysmenorrhoea with
marked success. Dr. Gullis, of Boston, whose observations
are quoted by Hale, says, "I think zanthoxylum more
especially indicated in females of spare habit, nervous
temperament, and delicate organization. In some cases
of plethoric habit it has failed me." It would seem, from
this proving, to be specially suited to dysmenorrhea with
2 k -2
468 ON DYSMENOBBH<EA. ^sS^fSS^^^
profase flow, bat I haye used it in several cases where this-
was not markedly present, with most decided and rapid
relief. I have generally given it in the Ix gttv, or in the (p
gttj every half-hour, till relieved.
Acta'a racemosa, although the uterine provings are rather
more scanty than we like to see, yet has evidently decided
power of producing dysmenorrhcea. Thus we find : ' ' During
menses, very severe down-bearing forcing pains." ^* Taken
unwell in the morning ; wandering pain in the back, and
around hips, inside, lasting all morning ; quite severe at
10, when she was obliged to lie down ; has never had so*
much pain during menses." It is not a medicine I can
speak of from experience during the pain (except in cases
where it has been given during the whole interval, and
continued during the flow), but marked success is reported
from its use by Dr. Hale, and others, and by those of the
eclectic school. It would be indicated chiefly in the
neuralgic and congestive forms, and especially when the
general actaa symptoms are present. These I have already
gone fully into, when speaking of its use in amenorrhcBa.
The neuralgic producing power of actcBa would point to its
use in cases of neuralgic dysmenorrhosa ; while its power
over uterine congestion, which I shall afterwards allude to,
indicates its use in the congestive forms also. In patients
of a rheumatic tendency it would be specially useful. I
have found the 8rd dec. dilution act better in most of the
oct^a cases than the Ix or 9. Were I giving it during the
dysmenorrhoeal pains only, I should give a drop of the Sx
every quarter of an hour.
These are the medicines which I find give most relief in
dysmenorrhoeal pain at the time, and we have much to be
thankful for, for the sake of our patients, in having such
means at our disposal. With their aid we can rob 49 out
of every 50 dysmenorrhoeal patients of the dread they haye
at the approach of the period.
I have named them before the Hahnemannian remedies,,
as, with one exception, these latter, by general consent,
seem to be of less value in relieving pains at the time.
This exception is cocculus. This medicine is of value in
cases where gelseminum and the other remedies already
named do not relieve much, because they are not so closely
similar in symptoms, while cocculus affords a close
simile. The use of this remedy and the selection of
the cases where it supersedes the other remedies is, in fact,.
iSS^^TmSS^ 05 dtsmbnobbh(ba. 469
^ _ _ _ . _ . . _A_
AH excellent illastration of the necessity of examining into
the details of dysmenorrhoeal symptoms, and the excellent
resnlts of snch selections according to symptoms. We
know the power of coccttlus on the cerebro-spinal and
sympathetic nervons systems. Yon will remember the
** sea-sick " headache it produces ; one with compression,
mnch vertigo, and inclination to Tomit. Next you will
recal the flatnlent gastralgia, with vomiting, and the
flatulent colic with distension, and feeling of distension
which it produces. In the pathogenesis of the uterine
symptoms we find ''menstruation seven days too early,
with distension of the abdomen, and cutting-contracting
pain in the abdomen on every motion and every breath,
together with contraction in the rectum." '' Menstruation
eight days too early, with distension of the abdomen, and
pain in tiie upper region of the abdomen, not only on every
motion (even stooping was painful) but also while sitting,
AS if the inner parts were suffering from the sharp pressure
of a stone ; the parts are painful to external touch, as if
there were an internal ulcer." Lastly, it is to be noted
that in the pathogenesis there is next to no pain spoken of
in the lower back.
Here, then, we have clear indications of the case of
dysmenorrhoBa for which coccvliis is the remedy. The
severe pain is in the region of the uterus only, and not in
the back. It is of a sharp cutting feeling, or as if the
uterus were distended by internal pressure, and the flow is
more profuse than natural. It is accompanied by general
abdominal distension and flatulence, or flatulent colicky
pain, with pain and flatus in the stomach, and vomiting.
The headache also is severe, and is associated with vertigo
and vomiting. These cases are not nearly so well treated
by gelseminum, caulophyUumy &c., as by cocculus, I generally
give 2x or Ix dilution, a drop every quarter of an hour till
relief is obtained.
Cuprum may sometimes be given with advantage when
the pain is like cramp, characteristic of copper, and when
there is much spasmodic vomiting, and nervous depression*
Then the 6th dilution may be given every five or ten
minutes till relieved.
Ignatia may sometimes be required when the pain
is associated with marked hysterical symptoms, or
^sulminates in a fully developed hysterical attack. It may
470 ON BYBMBNORBHCEA. *a^^*?^
, Ang. 1, 1S81.
then be given in the 2z dilation, two or three drops eyeiy
quarter of an honr.
As accessory means, it is of decided service to prescribe
a hot sitz badi, to be taken on the night previous to the
expected day of the period, repeated as soon as the pain
comes on, bat not after the flow has began to appear. If
this last injunction is not attended to, t£e heat of the sitz
bath may check the flow. The water should be used as
hot as can be borne. After this, or, if preferred in place of
it, hot compresses all round the pelvis are of marked value.
I next come to speak of the treatment of such cases during
the interval of the menstrual periods, with the view of
preventing the recurrence of the pain ; and in selecting the
remedy, we must inquire minutely into the state of every
function in the body, in order that we may find a medicine
which will '* cover " the whole disordered condition.
First comes sulphur. This great '' anti-psoric " is often
of much benefit in cases of dysmenorrhoea. I would select
it, if I learned that there had been at any previous time of
life a history of skin eruption, or irritation, which had
been cured, or, at all events, had disappeared; more
especially if the disappearance of the skin rash had been
coincident, or nearly so, with the development of the dys-
menorrhoBa, or even of general dis-health. Or again, if at
the time of prescription the skin was irritable and inclined
to itch, or break out with any disorder of digestion or
change of season; or even if a condition of this sort existed
in other members of the same family, though not iu
our patient ; if nothing of this kind were discoverable,
sulphur would be indicated by a tendency to mucous
catarrh, liability to "catch cold" on the least exposure,
and sensitiveness to change of weather. Also if the com-
plexion were dusky or " liverish," if headaches of a full
congested feeling were present, if the tongue were some-
what coated, with more or less dyspeptic feeling, if the
liver and bowels were sluggish, with tendency to piles, and
if the patient felt an indescribable languid feeling, with
irritable temper, I should then give stdphur in the 80th
dilution twice a day, varying the dilution according to
circumstances, down to the 6th or 8rd.
2. Actaa. This remedy, which, as I have already stated,
I have little experience of when given simply to relieve pain
at the time, unless it has been given during the whole
interval, and continued on during the pain, is one on which
eS^^STmSu** on dysmbnorrhcea, 471
I place mach yalue as a remedy given daring the interval.
Althongh I folly described the pathogenetic indications for
iicUea when treating of amenorrhoBa, let me remind you of
them shortly. It meets especially the hyper^esthetic patient
— ^not the hysterical temperament exactly, but that which we
find developed in what is known as spinal irritation. The
prominent features are the extreme sensitiveness to pain,
and the existence of pain in various nerve centres, and in
the nerves arising from them. There is a feeling of general
languor, and tiredness, with a very restless state of body^
causing the patient to be always changing position. The
same restless, unstable condition is manifested in the
mental and emotional sphere, producing alternations of
excitement with depression. Headaches are constant,
chiefly in the vertex, with feeling of heavy weight, and over
and in the eyes, with dragging at the back of the eyes.
Pains up and down the spine are felt, with spots tender to
pressure. Sleep is restless and disturbed, and accompanied
by much dreaming. Palpitation and infra-mammary pain
are much complained of, with pain in the ovarian regions,
and tendency to touch there. The tongue is clammy, and
the epigastric '* sinking" sensation causes much distress.-
There is frequent desire to pass water, with sacral pain,
general pelvic uneasiness, and down-bearing. If there is
actual uterine congestion, as evidenced by the symptoms,
or by vaginal examination, so much the more is actisa indi-
cated. Lastly, its power over rheumatism of the joints'
and muscles makes the rheumatic element in the patient
an additional indication. The catamenia are usually scanty,
and there is more or less constant leucorrhcea.
In such a case acUea is of great value, and may be given
in dilutions from 3 to 8x, or even Ix, three times a-day.
8. CatUophylluvi is of as great value when given during
the interval, as during the access of pain. As a remedy
during the interval, the chief indications are scantiness of
the menses, leucorrhoea, and the presence of the rheumatic
diathesis. I usually give the <p 1 drop three times a day.
4. Hamamdis may be given during the interval, when
the flow is profuse, when there are piles which bleed easily,
tendency to varicosis, to venous engorgements, and to
haemorrhage elsewhere. Dose 2x or Ix three times a day«
5. Xanthoxylum may be given during the interval, as
well as during the pain, when indicated for the pain. I
have, however, no experience of this use of it.
472 ON DYSMBNORBHCEA, ^'b^^i^!?!^.
6. One other of the "new remedieB" I must name
hefore speaking of the older or Hahnemannian medicines.
That is coUintonia canadensis. The yalne of this remedy
in cases of haemorrhoids and severe constipation, accom-
panied by much pain in defecation, I spoke of fnlly in a
former lectnre. But sometimes we meet with cases when
we have this veiy state superadded to dysmenorrhoea, and
where the existence of this state may be very much, or at
all events partially, the cause of the dysmenorrhoeal pain.
Here then coUinsonia is of value for both features of the
case. I usually give the 3x dilution in 2 or 8 drop doses.
I come now to the Hahnemannian remedies during the
interval.
7 and 8. Sepia and piilsatiUa are both of importance,
each in its own sphere. The pathogenesis of both these
medicines I fully sketched when speaking of amenorrhoea.
Let me only here recall to your memory the main features
of each.
(1.) Sepia, The patient suited to this remedy is a
woman with dark hair, pale or sallow complexion, of easy
disposition, or excitable, with alternations of depression.
She complains of weakness, and has frequent attacks of
faint prostration — ^not actual syncope — accompanied by
chilliness, these attacks coming chiefly in the morning
and evening. There is frequent headache, partly left-sided,
and neuralgic toothache. She complains of backache of a
dragging or burning character, with scanty menstruation
and leucorrhoea — ^in fact, the symptoms of uterine congestion.
The tongue is white, and dyspepsia is present with the
well-known epigastric ** sinking." The liver is sluggish,
the bowels costive, and the urine depositing lithates, while
there is a tendency to pimples on the face, itchiness of
Kkin, and itching and excoriated feeling at the vulva, and
tendency to mucous catarrh elsewhere.
Such is the case for sepia. If you find, on examination,
undoubted uterine congestion of cervix or body, or both, so
much the more is sepia indicated.
(2.) Pulsatilla Again correBponAs to the fair-haired, blue-
eyed woman of a gentle and emotional temperament, and
< asily giving way to tears. You remember the full head-
aches, the furred white tongue, the acid taste, the gastric
catarrh, the fulness in epigastrium after food, the
flatulence, and nausea or vomiting. The bowels are either
regular or inclined to be loose, especially at night, the
^^^T^ ON DYSMBNORRHCEA, 478
stools being mucoas. She is always worse in a wann
room and in the evening, and better in the open air. She
has frequent or constant backache and lencorrhoea, with
tendency to mucons catarrh everywhere. Her catamenia are
scanty, with ovarian pain. She is always chilly in the
evening, with cold feet, but there is a marked absence of
thirst.
9 and 10. Nux vomica and ignatia may be required in
•certain cases. The general features of the nux vomica
-derangement, with its headaches, dyspepsia, and constipa-
tion, I have so often described, that I need hardly again
go over it ; while ignatia would be preferred when the
hysterical condition, with its well-known symptoms, are
the special features in the case.
11. Coccvhja may be continued during the interval for
the same indications as I noticed when speaking of its use
:at the time of the pain — ^viz., the vertigo, headache, sea-
sick feeling, and flatulent gastralgia, along with, of course,
the special form of dysmenorrhcsal pain already described.
12. Platina. This, though named last, is by no means
least, but is a very important medicine for administration
•during the interval, as well as at the time of pain. It
suits chiefly women who are thin and with dark hair, and
are very prone to mental depression. The catamenia
^ome on too early, and are profuse and clotted. Leucor*-
rhoea occurs during the interval. The dysmenorrhoBal pains
are well brought out in the provings. They are chiefly in
the abdomen, going into the genitals and down the groins
to the thighs. The pain is cutting, or griping, or con-
strictive, causing also much down-pressure. This down-
pressure is much felt, as in the rectum, causing desire for
stool, which, however, gives pain, while the stool is scanty,
and constipated. The mental state is important to notice.
It is one of anxiety, and great depression, with fear of
death, and at the same time irritability. Headaches are
very frequent and distressing. They are prominently a
mixture of cramp-like constriction with numbness, and
•occur chiefly in the forehead and temples, though they may
also be felt in the occiput and vertex. The face is pale
and sunken, and there is a sense of great weakness and
prostration, with chilliness. Such a condition is, you will
observe, quite distinct from that of any other medicine I
have named, and when present, you will find platina a
remedy of great value. I usually give it in the 6th dilution.
474 CASE 0^ PABOVABIAN CYST. ^^£^^^^^^.
Snch are the leading remedies in the treatment of djs-
menorrhoea, and with the nae of the indicated remedy
daring the interral, and also when the pain comes on, you
will find your success such as to earn for you the gratitude
of many a poor sufierer, who has been endeaTouing
previously to deaden her pain with opiates and brandy.
CASE OF (?) A PAR-OVAMAN CYST, CURED BY
BOVISTA 6x.
Beported by Ed. M. Madden, M.B., Suigeon for Diseases of Women to>
the Birmingham and Midhind Homoeopathic Hospital.
The following case, which of itself wonld be hardly worth
publishing, on accoant of the slight doubt inyolving the
exact diagnosis, becomes worthy of record when read as a
sequel to the case reported by Dr. Alfred £• Hawkes, of
Liverpool, in the Organon for July, 1878, in which an
undoubted unilocular par-ovarian cyst was cured by the
same medicine after having been three times tapped.
Miss F. W., aged 13^, was first brought to me on
28rd September, 1880, suffering from the following
symptoms. For about three weeks she had had headache
and general dyspepsia, her appetite was quite gone, she
was very sleepy and in bad spirits, though usually of a
very bright and cheerful disposition. For two days she
had had diarrhoea in the mornings, with slight colic. The
tongue was white and slimy. Pulse 82. She had never had
any catamenia. For this condition I prescribed puis. Ix,.
gt, ij., o. 3 tia h., and recommended her to be kept from
school. On the 27th she was again brought to me, and
had well developed follicular tonsillitis, with a pulse of 124,
and temp. 38'8, but in addition complained of her abdomen
feeling very hard and distended, as it had been for several
weeks, but was increasing.
I now, of course, ordered her to be put to bed, and
attended her at home. The tonsillitis ran a favourable
course, and was well in four days ; but on examining the
abdomen when she was in bed, I discovered a very evident^
fluid tumour, confined to the left lower portion of the
abdomen, which did not alter its position* with the position
of the patient, and which was very slightly, if at all, tender
on pressure. As I did not wish to give a decided opinion as
to the nature of the case without consultation, I got leave
to call in Dr. B. Wynne Thomas to see the case with me,.
IRrfSt^^TTiS^ CASE OF PABOVABIAN OTST. 475
which he did on October Ist, and agreed with me that there
was every evidence of a par-ovarian cyst, though from
the age of the patient we did not ask for an internal exami-
nation, and he thooght it just possible that it was a cyst
connected with the left kidney. We now felt it our duty to
give a somewhat serious opinion to her parents, and to hint
at the possibility of an operation being required in the
future, but decided to try treatment in the first place, and
remembering Dr. Hawkes' successful case with bovistay we
ordered her to take this in 2 min. doses of the 6x dilution
three times a day. The measurement at this time was 80^
inches round the abdomen, and the discomfort and sense of
distension were considerable. The distension and size
began almost at once to diminish, and on October 18th she
only measured 29 inches (which is her normal size), and
she felt much more comfortable. About this time the
treatment was interfered with on account of a severe cold,
which produced violent toothache and general malaise, and
the bovista was not resumed till November 2nd.
On November 17th Dr. Thomas again examined her with
me, and there was then no sign of any fluid tumour to be
found, and only a slightly increased sense of resistance on
the left side compared with the right. She was, moreover,
feeling quite well in herself.
I have only to add that the cure has been permanent,
and she is now, June 10th, 1881, as free from discomfort
or enlargement of the abdomen as before this illness. I
can hardly think that a cystic kidney would have been cured
so easily, and without any other symptoms pointing to the
kidney as the seat of disease ; and except a dropsy of the
fallopian tube (a very rare occurrence), I do not know of any
other simple fluid tumour which could occupy the same
position except a par-ovarian cyst, and such I am convinced
was the nature of the swelling which thus so happily
disappeared. It would, therefore, seem certain that bovUta
in the 6x dilution has a powerful curative action on certain
forms of ovarian or par-ovarian disease, and further
experience will probably teach us in which.
It is not surprising that no symptoms distinctive of
ovarian dropsy should have been produced in the provings
of bovisixL or of any other drug, so that we must rely almost
entirely upon clinical experience in its treatment.
P.S. — ^When this case was first sent to the Editors of the
Review, it was returned to me with a polite note intimating
476 CASE OF PABOVARIAN CYST. *SSj,^*?fS£'
that in their opinion ** the diagnosis was so doubtful and
so highly improbable that an ovarian cyst should apjiear
And disappear so rapidly and in a girl of that age, who had
never menstruated, that they thought it better not to
publish it."
Afber receiving this note, I called upon and submitted
my case for the opinion and criticism of Mr. Lawson Tait,
surgeon to the Women's Hospital in Birmingham, a
gynsBCologist of the very first rank, as every one who has
read his book on Diseases of Women must admit,
teeming as it is with original and practical observations,
and one whose experience of ovarian disease and success in
operating for its removal is only surpassed by two or three
living surgeons.
I was therefore not a little gratified to hear him say that
my diagnosis was by no means improbable, as he had
frequently met with ovarian tumours in girls under puberty,
and had removed at least five or six. I would here remark
that in my case, though it had only become noticeable and
inconvenient for a short time, it had probably been much
longer since it commenced. Mr. Tait also told me, what
I did not know before, that the so-called uni-locular ovarian
^ysts are never truly ovarian, but are cysts in the broad
ligaments and should hence be called "par-ovarian" —
cystic disease of the ovary being always multiple — ^I have
therefore adopted this name in reporting my case.
He also told me, somewhat to my discomfiture, that this
form of cyst is liable to spontaneous cure, though only in
the proportion of three per cent, and then usually by
opening into and discharging itself per vaginam, which
certainly did not happen in this case. Mr. Tait also
suggested (as Cr. Thomas had done) that the cyst might
have been connected with the kidney, possibly a hydro-
nephrosis, but admitted that this was a much rarer
-disease.
I think then that after all the case is worth recording,
for making all allowance for doubtful points, there is f^
least this much of certainty remaining : — Here was a giri
sufiering from an unmistakable fluid tumour in the
abdomen contained in a cyst of some kind, and the balance
of probabilities is strongly in favour of its being par-
ovarian, and this tumour as unmistakably disappeared
while she was taking hovista 6x, and' the chances against its
having been a spontaneous cure are at least thirty to one.
iSS^^rrSg"' HBAPA0HB8> 477
HEADACHES.
By AbchibaIiD Hxwan, M.D.
(1). Mary B. (March 81, 1881), kitohen-maid, aged 22,
has suffered from pains through her head more or less all
her life as far hack as she can remember. It makes her feel
confdsed and stupid. It is much worse at the monthly
period. The period lasts only two or three days, and is
scanty. Tongue has moist yellow fur in centre and at
back. Bowels regular. Appetite fair, but she often feels
nausea. She is of a quiet retiring disposition, has light
brown hair, and is well nourished. PttU. 2 dec. t. d.
April 14. — Headache much less frequent. Has been
quite rid of it since the 10th. Tongue is still slightly
failed. Continue puU. 2 dec.
May 18. — Still further improved. Only two attacks
since last visit, and then not all the day; these were
during the period. Trit. puis* 6 dec. t. d.
June 9. — ^Much better. No headache whatever since
last visit, not even during the period. Feels in very
different health altogether, and is quite well.
(2). 1878, Oct. 7. — ^Lord — , aged 40, sallow com-
plexion. Headache in the morning, a malady extending
back some years. Nothing ever relieved ; and his duties,
which are ''on the bench," have become irksome and
painful. There is also a feeling of oppression at the pit of
the stomach, which is relieved after food, but very soon
returns. Dry mouth on awaking in the morning ; tongue
loaded at the back. Bowels regular. Pain on pressing
over right hypochondrium. Sleep not refreshing. Nux.
3 dec. day ; mere* 3 dec« night.
Oct. 14. — ^Very slight improvement. Wishes particu-
larly to mention an irritation of the skin generally for the
last five years. At first when it attacked him his stomach
and the other symptoms were soon relieved, but latterly it
has not had that effect. It comes on after walking, or
sitting before the fire. Hep. sul. 8 dec.
Oct. 24. — Headache less. Irritation of skin also less ;
not for a long time past has he had so little as yesterday.
Sleeps much better. Continue hep. 8. 8 dec.
Nov. 9. — Altogether better. Less headache, less wind
on the stomach, and there is less pain on pressure over
right hypochondrium ; but the tongue continues furred at
the bacL Nux. 8 dec.
478 HYDRONBPHBOSIS. "a^SSffiSTMO.
Not. 24. — Thinks he is getting better slowly, bat there
is still a sensation of headache which he never quite gets
rid of. Has had a 'Turkish bath, which has made the
irritation . of the skin worse and caused the skin to
have a slight eruption like millet seed. Trit. mere.
sol. 6 dec. o. m.
The result of this last prescription was most satisfiactorj.
There was a steady gradual cessation of the headacheSy
resulting in a permanent cure, so that '^my work has now
become again, as it was formerly, a pleasure.'*
(8). M. P — , aged 83, ooachbuilder, sallow complexion.
1878, March 5. — ^Headaches began last May with pain
in the back of the head ; was *' treated for liver," but
the pain has never quite gone. Can always set himself
right for a time by taking pills, and he obtains temponuy
relief by eating a biscuit. It is better after breakfast, but
not after other meals. Tongue whitish furred. Pressure
over right hypochondrium causes a sense of suffocation.
Trit, mere, sol. 6 dec. t. d.
May 80. — Headaches have been much better. *^ After
taking the medicine for a week or ten days I had two or
three weeks with no headache whatever, and I felt quite
well; then it came on again." Tongue slightly furred.
Appetite fair. Bowels regular. Trit* mere. sol. 5 dec.
mane. Ign, 8 dec. bis in die.
Aug. 5. — Has been better in every way since ; head-
aches altogether better. Whenever there has been a
tendency to their recurrence the powders have set him
right. Has had a fall, since which he has been troubled
with boils in his face coming on a fortnight after. Used
to have boils when a youngster and a teetotaller. Am.
mont. 8 dec.
Aug. 18. — Called to make an engagement for a relative
to see me, and showed me that the boils had quite dis*
appeared, and that there were no new ones coming.
Chester Square, June, 1881.
A CASE OF HYDKONEPHROSIS.
By p. J. M'CouBT, M.D.
November 22nd, 1878.— Mrs. W., »t. 82, medium
height, sanguine temperament, a lady of fine nervous
organisation, and highly cultured, called on me, by request
of her physician. The closest inquiiy as to the history of
H^^^TS^ HYDR0NBPHB08I8. 479
Keriew, Aug. 1, lS6t.
her illness elicited only the following: Daring the past
fonr years, since her second and last parturition, she has
Boffei^d from dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia, also from
progressiye corpulency and exoessiye prostration. At no
time has there been renal pain or hasmaturia. She now
weighs 180 pounds, 40 pounds above her normal
standard.
At present her symptoms are: Great debility; dry,
harsh skin; vertigo and almost constant headache, the
pains shooting, in frontal and temporal regions; almost
complete blepharoptosis (due, not to oedema of the lids,
but to partial paralysis of the levator palpebrsD superioris) ;
spasmodic cough, with involuntary micturition; a fierce
bulimia, which cannot be appeased by any amount of food ;
she complains that her load of flesh is crushing her, and
that she '' feels like a mass of blubber." Examination
reveals a state of general oedema; but no pitting; heart
normal; liver slightly congested; uterus somewhat pro
lapsed and crowded to the left; ovaries apparently
healthy. On the right side, involving the hypochondriac,
iliac, and, in a less degree, the umbiUcal regions, I find a
large, bulging tumor ; it is soft, almost painless, vibratory
and lobulated; percussion yields a dull sound and distinct
fluctuation. The left hypochondriac and iliac regions are
likewise slightly tumefied, the sound somewhat dull, but
fluctuation is not perceptible. Urine scanty, albuminous ;
specific gravity 1,020 (owing, doubtless, to the very small
quantity voided) ; a few tube-casts only are present ; no
blood or pus corpuscles visible; no calcvli, nor evidence
of their presence at any time.
I think the diagnosis of that extremely rare disease,
hydronephrosis, wUl not be questioned, and it has been
caused, presumably, by pressure upon the ureters during
pregnancy. The prognosis must, of course, be unfavourable,
and the lady is informed that, while hoping to afford
substantial relief, I cannot encourage her to anticipate a
cure.
CausUcum 6 x, being the only drug which covers the
totality of these symptoms, is given, a dose every two
hours, with orders to extend the intervals to three hours
when urination becomes free*
November 26th. — The bulimia, cough,, involuntary
micturition, and blepharoptosis have completely vanished.
The flow of urine is enormous ; the entire body is bathed
^0 MvnwB. "g^;^^
in a viscidperspiration of strong minons odour, and the
enlargement has diminished considerably. Headache and
yertigo remain. In place of the bolimia, there is now
anorexia, yet she feels mnch stronger. Soon after this
the catamenia returns, and the function is free from pain
and hsBmorrhage for the first time in three years. Without
change of medicine the lady makes steady progress until
the 7th of February, 1879, when she is discharged with-
out apparent vestige of the disease.
March 10th. — On the 2nd instant, while walking over
ice concealed by a light &U of snow, her feet suddenly
slipped, and she fell, in a sitting posture, with great
violence. Immediately the skin beciune dry, the urine
scanty, general oedema reappeared, and the intumescence
on the right side is nearly as large as when I first saw her.
But the concomitant symptoms then noted are not present,
nor any other which may serve to indicate a particular
drug. Hence, in order to famish the experimentum crwis
as to its curative action over the pathological condition,
eauBticum is given as before. After a few doses had been
taken, the skin became moist, and a free uiiniferous per-
spiration followed, which continued to soak her clothing for
several days. During the same night an abundant flow
of urine ensued, and the swelling rapidly subsided. A
week later, when the tumor was scarcely perceptible, a
large abscess presented on the upper third of tiie right
thigh, between the pectineus and adductor longus. Not-
withstanding its immoderate size, the abscess matured and
discharged with but slight general disturbance, and its
healing appeared to be the signal of a perfect cure.
October 20th. — ^Mrs. W. informs me to-day that her
health is perfect, &r better than at any previous period
of her life. — Hahnemannian Monthly ^ Feb., 1880.
REVIEWS.
Entdickungen auf dem Gebiedie der Natur^ vnd der HdUnauU.
Die Ckromtehm KrankhsUen. Von Dr. Ignab PionLT.
First Part. Anleitnng zom Stadium der Diagnose aos
den Augen. (**Da8 ange ist nicht nor der Seele er ist anch
des Korpers BpiegfiL") Budapesfc: 1881.
£5S^5r?SS* REVIEWS. 481
Diteoveries in Natural and Medical Science, The CJironic
Diseases. By Dr. Ignab Peczely. First Part. Guide to the
Study of the Diagnosis (through) the Eyes. With three
Tables and three Engravings. ('* The eye is the mirror not
only of the soul bnt also of the body.*') Budapest : 1881.
We haye much pleasure in calling the attention of our readers
to the first instahnent of a work which is to consist of seven
partsy each of which is promised to be original.
Dr. Peczely, a physician in large practice in Budapest, has
for the last twenty years made researches and observations
regarding the changes of form and colour which take place in
the iris, in consequence of chronic diseases. Having respectively
verified that the same disease causes analogous changes in the
iris, these changes enable him, in combination with the other
symptoms, to ascertain and verify his diagnosis ; believing thai
luB observations, based as they are upon material changes and
facts, which can be verified by every physician and educated
layman who foUows his instructions, might be very useful both
for the sake of diagnosis and treatment, Dr. Peczely intends to
show at the next !Litemational Medical Congress, to be held in
London, in the first week of August, what he has done for the
diagnosis of chronic disease through observations of the changes
in tiie iris.
The Guide contains an anatomical and physiological description
of the eye and its adjacent parts, the peculiar functions of the iris
in the living state ; Uie local changes, and the changes of form
of the nervous fibres on the anterior surface of the iris ; the
origin and significance of the brown deposits seen on the
anterior surface of the iris — some of the causes of these deposits
are named — and the changes caused after the treatment by
stdphur.
An explanation is given of the second ohromo-lithographic
table, containing twenty-seven diagrams of the iris in its natural
and enlarged size ; the various small and large spots, the several
forms of these spots, their various localities and the diversity
of colour, surprise eveiy one who has never paid any attention to
such abnormal peculiarities, and give a proof of the author's
powers of observation.
The title of another chapter is. What is to he understood hy
diagnosis through the eyes, and what is to be expected from it for
medical purposes ?
After entering minutely into the topography of the iris^
ilhistrated by &e first large table, and into further details
regarding the brown deposits ; the changes caused in the iris by
cutaneous diseases, by itch, fevers, scrofula (after fevers)
gonorrhoea^ chancre, the author mentions the changes caused
No. 8, YoL 25 3
482 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES, ^'b^
Eefiew, Aug. U IM..
by external and natural mechanical injuries, by inflammation, by
heart disease.
In the appendix, the author details his plan of examiTiing adult
persons as well as children, independent of the iris, and finishes
with these words, feuits can be denied, but camwt be routed.
Want of time must be our apology for not having entered into
more details regarding this perfectly new field of diagnosis, but
there will soon be an English translation published, which will
serve to satisfy the appetite, which we hope to have roused by
this ohort notice.
Sewage Poisoning : its Causes and Cure. By Edwabd T. Bi.aks,
M.D., M.B.C.S. Second edition. London : £. & F. Spon.
On the appearance of the first edition of this work, we had the
pleasure of speaking of it in terms of high praise, and we are glad
to see that a second edition is needed. Dr. E. Blake has xnade
this subject a speciality, and we are glad to see a subject of so
much importance taken up, and gone into so fully and thoroughly
by one of our small body. The work is most full, and every
detail so fully and clearly described as to render the subject
easily comprehended by every one, lay as weU as medical. The
illustrations are fuller than in the first edition, and leave nothing
to be desired, while the simplicity of the whole arrangement
carries its own recommendation with it. We trust it will have a
wide circulation among the laify, while every medical practitioner
ought to be possessed of it, if he wishes to be au couraiU with the
times on this all-important topic.
MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES.
THE INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIC MEDICAL
CONVENTION.
The meetings of this Convention were opened on the evening of
Monday, the 11th ult., by a reception held by the President and
Mrs. Hughes at the rooms selected for the transaction of business
— ^those of the Dilettante Club, in Argyle Street. The rooms
were tastefally decorated, and in addition Messrs. Leath & Boss
(on whose stall was a medicine case used by Hahnemann),
Gould & Son, and Eeene & Ashwell, exhibited some fine phanna-
ceutical specimens. The visitors, among whom were the majonij
of homoeopathic practitioners in London, a goodly number from
the country, and all the American and Continental visitors to
the Convention who, up to that time, had arrived in town,
and also a number of ladies, were presented to the Presidant
and Mrs. Hughes by the Secretaries. With conversaiioa,
inspection of microscopic objects of mterest, demoDstratioiifl
SSh^I^u'S^ MEETIN08 OF 800IBTIBB. 483
bj Dr. Dudgeon of the powers of hie sphygmograph, and
some excellent vocal and instnunental music from Herr and
Madame liebe, Dr. and Madame Jagielski, and Dr. Hughes and
his daughters, a very pleasant evening was passed— one full of
good auguries for the success of the meetings that were to follow.
On Monday afternoon, at half-past two, the members assembled,
and the Secretary, Dr. Gibbs Blake, was actively engaged for
some time in entering their names. These, so &r as we have
been able to gather, were as follows : —
Dr. Hughes, Brighton, President: Drs. Black, Dudgeon,
Both, Dunn, Jagielski, Hahnemann, Hale, Pope, Matheson,
Yeldham, Tuckey, E. Blake, Neville Wood, Clarke, Epps,
Cooper, Burnett, Brown, Hewan, Wyld, Carfrae, Hamilton,
Ussher, Powell, Shuldham, J. G. Blackley, Goldsborough,
Eugene Cronin, Anderson, Markwick, H. Wheeler, W. H.
Wheeler, Gutteridge, Morrisson ; Messrs. Cameron, Engall,
D. Smith, Thorold Wood, Harris, Noble, Penfold, and
M'Gillicuddy (London) ; Drs. Drysdale, Moore, Hayward,
Stuart, and Brotchie (Liverpool) ; Drs. Nicholson, £. Williams,
Morgan and Fallon (Clifton); Drs. Blake and Madden
(Birmingham) ; Drs. Mackintosh and Midgeley Cash (Torquay) ;
Dr. Kennedy (Blackheath) ; Dr. C. H. Blackley (Manchester) ;
Drs. Ramsbotham and Clare (Leeds) ; Dr. Scott (Hudders-
field) ; Drs. Woodgates and Massy (Reigate) ; Mr. Norman,
(Bath); Mr. Butcher (Reading); Drs. Biyce and Wolston
(Edinburgh) ; Dr. Blythe (Dublin) ; Dr. Pybum (Hull) ; Dr.
Clifton (Northampton) ; Dr. G. Clifton (Leicester) ; Dr. Wolston
(Croydon); Mr. Rowbotham (Woolwich); Dr. Croucher (St.
Leonard's); Dr. Bodman (Devizes); Dr. Shuldham (Putney);
Mr. Potts (Sunderland) ; Dr. Galgey (Southampton) ; Dr. Ker
(Cheltenham). From abroad there were present, Drs. Talbot,
de Gersdorff, C. Wesselhceft, W. WesseDioefb, Baker, Kennedy,
Hall, and Walker (Boston, U.S.A.) ; Dr. Hebnuth (New York) ;
Dr. Bushrod James (Philadelphia); Drs. McClelland, Bingaman,
and Cooper (Pittsburgh); Drs. Henderson, Dobson, Foster,
Mitchell, and Woodward (Chicago) ; Dr. Dake (Nashville) ;
Dr. Park Lewis (Buffalo) ; Drs. Eaton and Owens (Cincinnati) ;
Dr. Higbee (St. Paul, Minnesota) ; Dr. Ordway (Hot Springs,
Ark.) ; Dr. Phillips (Cleveland) ; Dr. Sawyer (Monroe Mich.) ;
Dr. Breyfogle (Louisville); Dr. Welch (Brooklyn) ; Dr. MTickars
(Cleveland) ; Dr. Rush (Salem, Ohio) ; Drs. Claude and Simon,
FiU (Paris); Dr. von Dittmann (St. Petersburgh) ; Dr. Stephens
(Cannes); Dr. Meyhoffer (Nice); Dr. Casal (Mentone) ;
Dr. Cigliano (Naples) ; and Mr. Martin (Melbourne).
In addition there were, we beheve, about twenty others who
omitted to enter their names in the Secretary's book.
The meeting having been called to order, the Pbbsidknt
a 1—2
484 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ^^;r^SS!7^
delivered his opening Address, eommencing by a touching
reference to the life and character of the late Dr. Carroll Don-
ham, the occupant of the chair at the Conyention held in Phila-
delphia in 1876. He also noticed the departure from amongst
us during the Ust five years of Qoin, Niinez, and Bering, of
Hempel, GranTogl, and Jahr.
He then described the arrangements which had been made for
securing papers and for facilitating discussion, and passed to the
consideration of the objects aimed at in holding these meetings.
These, he said, ^ere, first, the consideration of the best plans for
propagating the method of Hahnemann. He urged that homoeo*
pathy was a method, and not a doctrine or a system. Hahne-
mann had his theories, pathological, snch as psora; physiological,
such as dynamisation — but there was no such thing as homoeo-
pathic pathology, no such thing as homoaopathic physiology. He
then considered the leading features of homoeopathy, the
principle, the dose, the single medicines-describing these as,
collectively, the method bequeathed to us by Hahnemann. He
then vindicated the liberty of the physician who practised homoeo-
pathy in the use of such measures as appeared to him to be best
adapted to the individual case before him ; arguing, at the same
time, that departure from homoeopathic prescribing was a grave
responsibility — a responsibility that ought to be assumed only
after a full conviction of its necessity.
Secondly, the Convention had in view the development of
homoeopathy. This would, he thought, be achieved by the
diligent prosecution of the means of at present within our reach,
and by further extension of efforts in the same directions.
Thirdly, the Convention would, it was hoped, have a powerfol
influence in cementing in friendly union homoeopathic practi-
tioners in different parts of the world. Dr. Hughes concluded his
address by dwelling on the importance of unity among colleagues.
A cordial vote of thanks to the President for his address was
passed on a motion proposed by Dr. Conbad Wesselhceft, of
Boston, and seconded by Dr. Methoffeb, of Nice.
The President then announced that an election for Yiee-
President had become necessary, and after a ballot it was
declared that the choice of the meeting had fallen upon Dr. Pope
by a large, majority. On the motion of Dr. Clifton, of North-
ampton, seconded by Dr. C. H. Blacklet, Dr. Talbot, of
Boston, Dr. Bbeyfoole, of Louisville (President elect of the
American Institute of Homoeopathy), Dr. Methofixb, of
Nice, and Dr. Dbysdalb, of Liverpool, were elected Honoraiy
Vice-Presidents.
The President then gave a brief outline of the papers which
had been presented on the history of homoeopathy in different
parts of the world during the last Ave years.
2^2?'J5?rS8?^ MEETINGS OP SOOIBTIBS. 486
The report on Bbloium was presented by Dr. Mabtxny, of
Brussels, and stated that the number of homceopathists had
increased in that country in a suitable proportion. During the
last five years two homceopathic medical societies had been
established, a new journal (U Hornctopathie MiUtante) had been
founded, while the list of new medical works published by
homoeopathic practitioners was a lengthy one.
Dr. Logan, of Ottawa, described the state of homoeopathy in
the Province of Ontabio, where from one homoeopathic practi-
tioner in 1846, there were now eighty-four. A legal status h ad
been secured, and examiners in homoeopathy had seats on the
jnedical council of the province.
Of the Province of Quebec, Dr. Nichol, of Montreal, writes
that progress during the last five years, though somewhat slow,
has on the whole been steady and satisfactory. ** In the City
of Montreal, with a population of 120,000, the principles and
methods of homoeopathy have leavened not only the public
mind to a degree quite satisfactory, but even the minds of
physicians of tibe dominant school, quite a number of whom base
at least a part of their practice on the law of similars."
Of the Maritime Provinces, Dr. Ajllan M. Kino, of St. John,
New Brunswick, reports that homoeopathy has made solid
progress in the Provinces of New Bbunswick and Nova Scotia*
Since the year 1876 the number of practitioners, though still far
below the public demand, has increased, and the popularity of
homoeopathy has extended.
The report of the state of homoeopathy in Fbanoe was pre-
sented by M. le Dr. Claude. He detailed the circumstances
which have culminated in the Government recognition of
L'Hopital S. Jacques. He noticed the International Homoeo-
pathic Congress at Paris, in 1878, and described the arrange-
ments which have been made in Paris for the public teaching of
homoeopathy, and referred to the lectures of Dr. Gonnard,
Jousset, and Fredault. Dr. Claude then described with much
minuteness the various sections into which French homoeo-
pathists are divided ; the two hospitals in Paris, and the third
At Lyons, and the various dispensaries of the capital and the
provinces; concluding by pointing out the kind of influence
bomoeopaUiy is exerting upon the practice of medicine in France,
iind the reasons why this is not greater than it is.
Gebmany was to have been represented in these reports by
Dr. Gox^iLON, Junr., of Weimar, but at the last moment he was
unable to fulfil the task he had undertaken, and his place was
kindly supplied by Dr. Dudgeon, who, from such materials as he
4;ould find, gave a sketch of the events which had marked the
history of homoeopathy in Germany of late years. The losses
by death in the ranks of prominent homoeopathic physicians in
486 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ^SS&, A^^lfwl!
Germany have proved very heavy ; and while one journal of old
standing has ceased to exist, and two hospitals have heen closed,
homoeopathy has made little if any progress in that conntry
dnring the last five years.
The report on Great Britain and the Colonies was pre-
sented hy Dr. Pope, who commenced hy allading to the extensive
adoption of homoeopathicaUy acting medicines hy members of
the old school, and the consequent necessity of onr directing
attention, more than ever, to the principles which originally
brought out these uses of medicines. The efforts to re-unite
the homcBopathio and anti-homceopathic sections of the pro-
fession were shown to have proved abortive, and that the only
re-union worthy of the name would take place " when the
doctrine of homoeopathy receives full and fair discussion in the
columns of the medical journals and at the meetings of the
medical societies, when ignorance, bigotry, and intoleranee have
been replsiced by knowledge, courtesy, and a respeet for opinions
carefully formed, experimentally tested, and honestly held, but
not before."
The report proceeds to show that our institutions devoted to
illustrating homoeopathy have, during the last five years, been
well sustiuned, their efficiency has been increased, and they have
in some measure been added to. The condition of the London
Homoeopathic Hospital and of the origin and present state of
the London School of Homoeopathy are then described. The
position of the Hospitals at Birmingham and Bath, the
Dispensary at Liverpool, and the Convalescent Homes of
Bournemouth and Southport are also set forth, the several
societies and journals noticed, and the deaths of Drs. Quin,
Eyan, and Euddock briefly alluded to.
The state of homoeopathy at Sydney, Melbonme, Adelaide,
Bathurst, Hobart Town, and Brisbane (Australia), in New
Zealand, and at the Cape of Good Hope is touched upon in
conclusion.
Dr. SmoAR, of Calcutta, in a paper of great interest and
considerable length, traced the history of Homoeopathy in
India. The first case treated homoeopathicaUy in India was
that of the Maharaja Bunjeet Sing, who, in 1889, was seriously
ill, but appears to have been marvellously relieved by
Dr. Honigberger, who reports the case in a book entitled
Thirty-Five Years in the East, published in London in 1852.
The Hakims of the court of Laliore, however, interfered, and
regaining their lost ascendency, proceeded to administer to the
Maharaja an enormous electuary of which precious stones
constituted the chief ingredient, and in less than a fortni^i
the patient was a corpse. For many years before 1852,
homoeopathy had been practised in India by amateurs. In
'b^^^!T^'' meetings of societies. 487
at least three instances homoeopathic hospitals were estab-
lished by wealthy native princes. One was also set on foot by
Sir John Little in Calcutta in 1851, and placed nnder the
direction of Dr. Tonnerre. By Mr. E. De Latonr, an en-
iJinsiastic and capable layman, much good was accomplished
in the treatment of cholera by homoeopathy. Another lay-
man— a native — Babu Bajender Dntt, began to practise
homoeopathy in 1861, during an epidemic of malarisd fever
of especial severity, when his success caused his house to
be thronged with applicants -for relief. The Babu had other
successes of great importance which produced a marked effect
upon the public mind. In 1864, Dr. Berigny, a graduate
of the University of Paris, settled in Calcutta, and was for
a time a great help to the Babu. In 1867 Dr. Sircar was
induced to study homoeopathy. He declared his convictions in
an address before the annual meeting of the Bengal Branch of
the British Medical Association, and was excommunicated
accordingly. '* This," he writes, *' has been as nothing com-
pared to the beiiefits my patients have enjoyed and the
consequent consolation I have myself enjoyed of an approving
conscience. " In the North- West Provinces, homoeopathy was
being advanced at the same time by Babu Loke Nath Moitra.
and a homoeopathic hospital and dispensary were established and
placed under his care at Benares in 1867. In the same year
Dr. Saltzer, a graduate of Vienna, settled in Calcutta, and has
since done good service there. In 1868 The Calcutta Journal
of Medicine was established to advocate the cause of homoe-
opathy. In 1869 at Allahabad a dispensary was established
under the charge of Babu Preo Nath Bose, a layman of
considerable skill ; and in 1870, one at Agra under another
layman, Babu Gohind Chunder Boy.
With occasional exhibitions of stupidity and ignorance on the
part of the allopathic sect, in* which they have xmiformly been
opposed by the intelligent portion of the public, homoeopathy
has gradually advanced. In Calcutta there are seven qualified
practitioners of homoeopathy ; in the suburbs of Calcutta, five ;
in Baraset, one ; in Serampore, one ; in Hnghli, three ; in
Bamipore, one; in Allahabad, one. There may, Dr. Sircar
adds, be others of whose presence he is not aware. The number
of secret practitioners of homoeopathy is, he says, already great,
and threatening to be greater still, while the number of lay
practitioners is considerable. In Calcutta there are eight
homoeopathic pharmacies.
Dr. Sircar concluded his paper with some general observa-
tions on the requirements of homoeopathy, in order to its fall
advancement.
Italt is reported on by Dr. BeIInabd Abntjlphy, of Nice. He
488 MEKTIHOS OF 80CISTIES. ^"b^^ITmS! *
tells 118 thai the political Tidsaitodes through which Italy has
passed haye tended to arrest the derelopment of hom(Bopathy.
This has arisen from the fact that when the Peninsnla was
divided into a number of independent states, there was always
found, here and there, a sovereign fayoarable to homoBopathyi
and thus £Eu:ilitated the propagation of oar doctrines, first among
the aristocracy, and then the prosperons middle class, ^ow,
with only one soverdgn, and he in the hands of aUopaths, this
source of influence has gone. Again, the spread of the curious
notions of Ck>unt Mattei has done much evil. There are, it
appears, between one and two hundred homoeopathic practi-
tioners in Italy, but so isolated are they that they are scarcely
known to each other. There are a few dispensaries — one at
Milan, another at Borne, another at Turin, and so on. The
Journals are H Dinamico, edited by Dr. GigHano, of Naples,
Eivigta OndopaUcay by Dr. Pompfli, of Borne, and the CUniea
Omiopatica, of Padua, edited by Dr. Coco.
Dr. Amulphy concludes with an earnest appeal for more
homoeopathic practitioners, and for more books in the Italian
language on Materia Medica and the practice of medicine.
Dr. BojANUs, of St. Petersburgh, opens his very interesting
account of homoeopathy in Bussia with an examination of the
report submitted by the military medical officers to the late
Emperor on the experiments made with homoeopathy in the
Military Hospital of Helsingfors. The number of homoeopathic
practitioners throughout Bussia would appear to be about 200.
The literature of homoeopathy in that country is but slight.
Dr. Lloyd Tucket compiled a report on the state of homoe-
opathy in Spain. The chief event during the last five years has
been the opening of the Homoeopathic Hospital in Madrid. To
this institution a corps of lecturers on the Institutes of Homoe-
opathy, Materia Medica, Pathological Medicine and Surgery and
Clinical Medicine and Surgery i» attached, and student43 who
have a University degree at the end of one Annus Medicus,
receive the diploma of homoeopathic doctor if successful in
passing an examination. The hospital receives about 400
patients per annum, and nearly 10,000 out-patients are annually
prescribed for in the dispensary attached to it. The Hahne-
mannian Society is very prosperous, and the journal El Criterio
Medico has been slightly enlarged and altered.
The condition of homoeopathy in the Umited States of
Amebioa is reported on with much fulness by Dr. Talbot, the
Dean of the Medical Faculty of the University of Boston.
Dr. Talbot gave the history of homoeopathy in the States from
its introduction by Dr. Gram in 1825 until the present time. It
is now represented by 6,000 practitioners, 26 organised State
societies, more than 100 local societies, 88 hospitals, 40 dis pen-
bSSSS^^mJS^ mbktings of societies. 489
saries, 11 medical colleges, and 17 journals. Dr. Talbot gave
a clear account of these institationSy and concluded his essay with
brief references to some of the leaders of homosopathic medicine
who have passed away — ^Dr. Jeanes of Philadelphia, Dr. Hempel
of Grand Bapids, Dr. W. £. Payne of Bath, Miftine, Dr. Bering
-of Philadelphia, and Dr. Carroll Dunham of Irvington-on-the-
Hudson.
After these reports had been presented a discussion ensued on
the condition and prospects of homoeopathy at the present time,
jmd the best means of farthering its cause. This was opened
by Dr. Talbot, who was followed by Dr. Claude, Dr. Dxjdgeon,
Dr. Db Gebsdosff, Dr. Bushbod James, Db. Pope, Dr. Leon
Simon and others, when the Convention adjourned.
On the following morning (Wednesday) a number of members,
who take an especial interest in sanitary science, met at half-past
eleven to hear an address from Dr. Both, on Hygiene ^ the
chair being occupied by Dr. Blackley, of Manchester, In it he
^poke of tiie importance of recognising the many removable
•causes of disease by which we are surrounded, and added, that
though the science of hygiene has made considerable progress
during the present century, its practical application has taken but
slight root either among tiie profession or the people. He then
dwelt on the importance of legislation in respect of pure air,
water, and food, and on the necessity of medical men studying
hygiene as a part of their medical training. He supported
cremation as tending to remove many sources of disease.
Another matter of importance was the disinfection of the contents
of sewers, and another, methods for preventing accidents in
trades. The use of compressed air in tunnelling was noticed
and its effects described.
Dr. Both then dwelt on the prevention of disease in private
families by proper attention to hygiene. He urged the
supervision of all dairies, referred to preventible causes of
blindness, and to the importance of disseminating information
regarding them among the poorer portion of the population. He
argued that, instead of establishing homes for cripples, we
should prevent children becoming crippled by paying proper
attention to their development during infancy. Each of these
topics was illustrated by Dr. Both, with much force, by facts
that had come under his observation in practice. He concluded
his address, which was listened to throughout with deep interest,
by urging a more general diffusion of knowledge through the
various educational channels on all matters pertaining to
hygiene.
The various points touched on by Dr. Both formed the basis
of a lively discussion.
In the afternoon the chair was taken by the Vice-President,
490 MEETINGS or SOCIETIES. 'a^SlJ'Jfm
Dr. PoPB, when papers were presented, of which the follomg
are abstracts.
ThoughU on the ScienUfie Application of the Principkt of
Homaopaihy in Practice,
By Thomas Hatle, M.D. £din., of Boehdale.
Dr. Hayle commenced his paper by dwelling upon thfr
importance of facts as distingoished from speculations, argning
that it was from rash speculations and reckless experiments that
much of the evil that had resulted from the use of drugs in the
past had accrued. Referring to the effect produced on Hahne-
mann by his reflections on the practice of medicine, and his
resolution not to terminate his train of thought until he had
arrived at a definite conclusion, he describes it as ''a frame of
mind of which it may be asserted, as an everlasting truth, that
those who seek shall find, and that unto them who knock it shall
be opened."
Briefly noticing the circumstances which led Hahnemami ta
the assertion of the law of similars as the basis of drug
selection, to the researches made by him confirming its troth,
and to such as have since been made, he points to them as
having established Hahnemann's discovery beyond question.
Noticing Hahnemann's sole reliance upon symptoms and their
most minute surroundings, with the result of setting them forth
in a schema which was artificial, he proceeded to consider, from
an historical point of view, the infinitesimal dose, describing it
as a discovery as bnUiant as any in the annals of medicine, and
one to which the law was a step. Of the reception of homceo-
pathy among its adherents, he said, the great majority
materialised its teachings ; their habits and instincts led them
to compromise — they preferred the lower attenuations, often
giving Uie crude material. Another branch of homoeopathists
out-Hahnemanned Hahnemann — he gave thirtieths, they gs^e
millionths. He observed positions, aspects, and the weaUier,
and they attended to the most minute particulars and circum-
stances. That which Hahnemann did from necessity, they do
from choice. The resources of pathology were not open to himr
and he was therefore compelled to find his similar in a very
roundabout way. Symptom covering was his only resource.
Encumbered as it has been the achievements of homoeopathj
have been great, but what may not be expected when science
has cleared away the impediments and has revealed the essentials
in their unadulterated beauty, when we shall have ascertained
the nature, extent, and limits of the law, and the essence and
relative importance of the symptoms 1
Dr. Hayle then passed to a consideration of a rational theory
of medicinal action. In doing so, he said, " The peripheial
extremities are always furnished with a mechanism adapted to
"SSri^,^!^^* MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. 491
ihe peonliar mode of vibration they are meant to transmit.
Heat being a mode of molecalar motion requires no peculiar
apparatus, and has none. Touch requires an apparatus of a
simple kind. As we ascend through the vaiious senses, the
apparatus of reception becomes more complex. Thus in the
present state of our knowledge, I think it is probable that an
apparatus for sensation is constituted somewhat after this
fkshion — First, there is the nerve cord, a sort of telegraphic
wire ; then there is the special fluid, tiie vibrations of which
eaose our various sensations. Thus, the sense of heat, the
impressions of touch, the sense of taste, that of smell, of
hearing, and of sight are caused; the last bringing us into
oommunication with the realms of space, and with their
phenomena.
« But there are other sensations, not perceptible in health,
but which come out in disease, or when the body is affected bj
certain noxious agents, mechanical or otherwise. Thus, for
instance, in a strong cold, north-east wind, a delicate individual
feels a strong sensation of cold which, through the sensory
nerves, is conveyed to the brain, from which, through the vaso-
motor nerves, the vessels at the surface are contracted, the skin
becomes pale, and almost bloodless, or blue and livid. This may
be the direct effect of cold. If this ends here, a littie warmth
sets it right again. But it may not end here. Then another set
of reflex actions are set up, tenninating in one or more of the
internal organs — generally one or more of the serous membranes
— the pleural or synovial membranes. These vessels are not
strong enough to withstand the shock, and after a few alter-
nations of diameter, some weaker portion subsides into a paralytic
state. It becomes dilated, and stagnation of the circulation takes
place, and what is called inflammation is set up."
Dr. Hayle then detailed a case where fever and pleuritic
stitches were the result of exposure to a north-east wind, which
was completely checked by one dose of aconite 80. The next
day the patient was free from pain and fever, but weak. In
explaining the mode of cure in this case he says : *' Medicinal
action consists in a particular mode of motion, controlling and
altering the mode of motion which is constantiy going on in the
different nerves. It does not alter the mode of motion that is
going on, if healthy, that is synchronous with its own mode of
motion ; but whatever is amiss, out of gear, it restores to its
normal action, and, in fact, sets all right tiiat is wrong." A
large dose or low dilution not only acts on the diseased parts,
but sets up morbid movements of its own, deranging the whole
nervous tracts.
Comparing Stanley's account of his successful treatment of
his marsh fever in Afirica by large doses of quinine with those
492 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. ^SSS.^STmSl
recorded in Biickert^s Klinitehe Erfahrvngen^ where small doM
were used, Dr. Hayle says that he belieTes the cnieB wrou^
by the larger doees are more violent and less rapid, and more
apt to retam than those by smaller doses, whidi are accom-
panied with less straggle, as only the diseased parts are touched,
while the healthy parts remain onafiected. In the smaller dose
the Tibrations are synchronons with the healthy parts, and only
those which are out of gear are touched. In the other case the
whole sphere of the medicine, that is, the sphere on which it
Acts, is abnormally and yiolently acted on.
In chronic cases, the vessels of the part are chronically dilated
and have lost their elasticity. Speedy relapse follows restoration
by a single dose. This state of things is to be met by a skilfiil
repetition of dose, and if the part is accessible by atypical
stimulant, or by large doses, we should not give a second dose
imtil the first has exhausted its action, and we should persevere
with our medicine as long as it seems to do good. Altemationg
impede the action of the right medicine and prevent the acquisi-
tion of experience. *' The charioteer lq the car of homoeopathy"
says Dr. Hayle *' always drives at least a pair of horses, but rarely
-well matched."
In another class of cases crisis is rarely admissible. When
the vessels in the interior open upon mucous surfisu^s, then these
relieve themselves partially and set up a series of actions whidi
run a course. First, they contract and the membranes become
dry, then their discharges are poured fourth and lastly they
become thicker.
From the hypothesis thus set forth — that all sensations and
pains come under the category of modes of motion, that the
rectification of abnormal motions by the setting up of normal
ones is probable, and accounts for the non-production of change,
and therefore of sensation when the vibrations are synchronons^
Dr. Hayle argues that change and therefore cure is only effected
when the vibrations are not synchronous, and therefore diseased.
Dr. Hayle concluded by advocating the remodelling of the
Materia Medica, by arranging the symptoms in the order of
their occurrence. The doses in which the drugs have prodoeed
them should be stated, and the effects of a change of dose apoo
the nature and order of symptoms should be ascertained. The
causes, seat and nature of the symptoms should be analysed.
To accomplish this end Dr. Hayle proposes the formation of
an experimental conmiittee. By such work all attempts to
include truth by including everything, even the unimportant and
minute, would be unnecessary. Transitional and temporaiy
-aberrations would be merged in one uniform and scientific system
of practice, which might admit of additions but not of change.
iSSS^rSSTSw?'* MBBTIN08 OF SOOEBTIBS. 493^
Generalisation and Individu€di$ati&n,
By B. Hughes, L.B.C.P. Edin., of Brighton.
In opening his paper, Dr. Hughbs spoke of the necessity of
defining the word ** likes." In doing so he described two classes
of homoeopathic practitioners, the one satisfied only when he can
secnre a drag which will produce the morbid state supposed to-
constitute the disease he is called upon to treat ; while tiie other
ignores disease for therapeutic purposes as a pathological state,
and regards only sick persons. The totality of the S3rmptoms is-
ihe sole guide to the simillimTun, and if that is not attainable
reliance must be placed on the more peculiar symptoms. Dr.
Hughes then proceeded to show, by quotations from The
Organon and Hahnemann's Lesser Writings, that, while Hahne-
man taught that for the multitudinous and diverse forms of dis-
order which come before the physician, arising from common
causes (atmospheric and such like), and having no permanent
eharacter, selection by totality of symptoms and treatment as
individual maladies formed the best mode of proceeding, yet he
ever recognised that there were a certain number of diseases of
fixed type, acquiring this by origination from a specific (generally
miasmatic) cause. To these he appropriated one or more specific
remedies, as always appHcable and usually indispensable. And,
further he considered it a positive gain when morbid states,
hitherto regarded as individuals, could be referred to a common
type and treated by remedies chosen from a definite group,
instead of being made the subjects of an indiscriminate search
through the Materia Medica."
From the evidence he adduced, showing that Hahnemann
recognised certain specific forms of disease, which are always
essentially the same, and always curable by the same remedy ;
that he divided miasmatic diseases into acute and chronic, and
defined another class of diseases as specific fevers, each epidemio
having features of its own, but all cases of each being amenable
to the same specific remedy ; that he asserted the value of the
same remedy for the few diseases which have a constant cha-
racter; and from the importance he attached to the facility
afforded in prescribing by the recognition of the psoric origin of
ehronic disease ; as well as from the fact that he acknowledged
the curative power of spongia over goitre ; of bark in endemic
malarial fever ; of veratmm album in the water colic of Lauen-
burg ; of aurrnn in suicidal melancholia ; of the prophylactic
power of heUadorma over scarlatina, and of copper over cholera.
Dr. Hu^s argued that Hahnemann was no mere individualiser^
that he resorted to this method only where other guidance failed
him^ that for him there were morbid species and specific medi-
cines, and that he counted it real gain to redaun forms of
494 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. *^ffi.%. i^m.
disease from the desert of symptomatology, to trace them to a
common origin and connect them with certain remedies.
Haying &iis shown that pure individaalisers were without
authority, he argued that they had no foundation in reason. To
obtain a group of allied remedies, generic and specific charaeten
are necessary. Generalisation must precede individualisatioD.
Further, by generalisation we are able to utilise the experience
of the past.
There are cases, Dr. Hughes urged, such as goitre and
mumps, where we must all generalise exclusively ; oSiers, soeh
as nervous disorders, varieties of dyspepsia, and of defediTe
nutrition, which cannot be conformed to any known type of
disease, and here individualifiation is the only reasonable oouise.
Between these two extreme poles there is an extensive zone of
genuine morbid species, each requiring the allotment of a groi^
of specific remedies to be differentiated in accordance with each
variety and each case. Where, on the other hand, this is not
possible, where the practitioner has to choose between a remedy
producing symptoms similar to some of the peculiarities of thfl
instance before him or to the type of disease of which tho
instance in question is a specimen. Dr. Hughes argued that it
was of greater consequence to secure similarity to the patho-
logical process itself than, to use Hahnemann's own words, *' to
some accidental concomitant circumstances which do not altar
its essential character."
A New Similia.
By A. W. WooDWAED, M.D., Chicago, U.S.A.
Dr. WooDWABD defined disease as a combined pietoze of
pathological lesion plus the special sympathetic disturbanoei
attending it; necessitating a remedy, which is a simillimnm,
not only to the local lesion, but to all the symptoms in the order
of their relative importance. Our drug provings fail, he said,
in giving the combination and subordination of symptoms
pecijQiar to and characteristic of each drug, rendering us imaUe
to estimate correctly the attending symptoms which govern the
success of the remedy. A drug can only be radically curative
when it presents a complete parallel to the totality of the dieeaee
symptoms. If it cures to-day and fails to-morrow in the same
disease, it must be owing to difierences existing, not in the
local lesion itself, but in the epiphenomena which modify and
present a favourable result and to which the drug is not
homoeopathic. To obtain the knowledge necessary for preeeiib-
ing in this manner. Dr. Woodward argued that provings moft
be made on the healthy by a single dose taken in suffieiflDt
quantity to produce disturbance of the enture economy*
Dr. Woodward then adduced a series of provings of aruafkt
^"^fA^TSSu*" MBETINaS OP BOCIETIES. 495
nitx vomica, cinchona, veratrum album, aconite, and belladonna,
which were brought forward to show (1st) That the same drug
when taken in health, and in a single dose, will affect many
persons in the same general manner, though the specifd
symptoms will vary ; (2nd) That all medichies begin their action
by excitement, either of the motor, the sensory, or the excretory
functions ; and that they divide themselves naturally into three
groups or classes according to the order in which their general
functions are disturbed successively; (8rd) That each drug,
while exhibiting the general method of action belonging to its
class, shows its individuality by the succession in which it
disturbs the special organs and functions of the body, thus
presenting a combination of symptoms peculiar to that drug
alone.
In the proving of arsenic by three persons — ^two male and one
female — ^the smgle dose was, in one case, 8 drops of the Ix, in a
Beeond, a gndn and a half of the Ix trituration, and in the third,
three grains of the 2x. An analysis of the provings showed that,
while speeial symptoms varied, uniformity of physiological action
was seen in the symptoms beginning with morbid sensations, and
being followed by morbidly increased or altered secretions — ^with
a final general disturbance of a febrile character. These proviogs
are held to show that arsenic disturbs not only special organs but
the entire economy in one specific direction, and that these dis-
turbances are cumulative. Its use then diuicaUy must be
governed, not alone by the local symptoms of disease, for they
may belong to many drugs, but by the associated sympathetic
•disorders that must always ohariGMterise this remedy in any
disease. !|7huB, excluding the locus morbi, gastric symptoms
Always lead, cephalic are next in importance, and cutaneous,
respiratory, spinal, renal and enteric each progressively decrease
in importJEuxce except when one of them becomes the leading
feature as the seat of disease.
The new similia governing the use of arsenic in disease is,
that whatever the disease may be called the indications for this
drug are Luvariable, and will be limited to only two conditions.
1st. That the sufferings and morbid excretions shall exceed the
fever. 2nd. That the chief sympathetic disorder must always
be gastric, the second cephalic, the third cutaneous, &c. In this
manner Dr. Woodward examined the provings he had conducted
of the medicines already named.
The subject of discussion, which the papers introduced, was
the Selection of the Bemedy. It was opened by Dr. Drysdale,
who was followed by several speakers. At its conclusion the
next paper presented was —
496 MBETING8 OP SOCIETIES. ^S^^S^!^
On the AUemadoH of
By Br. Mabziht, of Brossek, and Dr. Bxbmabd, of Mods,
Bfllgiunu
The aathora define ftltemation as the snceesaye admiiiiBtiaiion
of two or more remedies which reeor in torn in a regnkr order
and at interrals snfficientlj approximated, so that the dnntion
of the action of the one drog may not be quite exhausted before
another soceeeds it.
This methodical alternation they consider eonstitates a&
important step in practical progress.
In taking a retrospectiye view of the practice of altematioiir
they refer to Hahnemann, who, in the edition of the Organon
published in 1810, admitted its necessity, becanse of the *' insuf-
ficient nmnber of remedies tried np to that time."
Hering, Gross, Bmnmel, iBgidi, Kcempfiar, Hirseh, Hartnuum
and Perry are cited as supporting the altemation of mediones in
the early history of homoeopathy, and Teste, Jonsset, Momremsiu,
Espanet, and Van den Ne<^6r as doing so in later years.
The ideal of the practice of homoeopathy, the finding of a
remedy whose pathogenetic symptoms comprise the totality of
the morbid symptoms, actual and antecedent, personal tnd
hereditary, ol)jectiye and sabjeetiye, is, they say, one bristling
with difficulties— -difficnlties which haye led to the altematbn of
drags. They donbt whether the progress of therapentics inll
ever bring ns exclnsiyely and defimtiyely to the simplicity, io
sednctiye, and, in appearance at least, so much more logical, of the
administration of one single remedy : and consider that so long as
this ideal or eyen nnrealisable perfection of the method is not at-
tained, it is, firom a clinical point of yiew, adyantageons in ordinary
practice to habitually alternate remedies two by two, or three by
three, or even fonr by four, when two or three drags are not soffi-
cient to coyer all the symptoms, or do not answer to all the caoflOB
of disease both profound and occasional. For example, an aeoie
pleurisy occurs in an emphysematous patient who has had
hemorrhoidal troubles : — acomts will be tdtemated with bryma
and arsenic ; and when the acute cfymptoms are calmed, iv»
belieye that to obtain a prompt and durable cure, we must gire
bryofda the first day, arsenic the second, nux vam, the third,
and perhaps sulphur the fourth.
They then illustrate this method of prescribing by reports of
a series of cases, in each of which, seyeral remedies were used
either in altemation or succession.
In discussing the modus agendi of medicines thus prescribed,
they argue, 1st, that sometimes they act as adjuyants, and
instance spongia and hepar in croup and aconite in acute infiam*
mation, alternated with beUadonna or mercurius, &q.
ISSS^^rrSa^' meetings op societies. 497
2nd. They act sometimes as correctiTes — ^as in cases where
special susceptibilities to the action of certain medicines exist —
as when sufphur cannot be taken singlj ; bat when alternated
with niur it does good, while the nux vom. alone would be
inefficacious.
Srd. They think that sometimes alternated remedies seem to
constitute a new medicinal means endowed with new properties,
illustrating this by Dr. Kafka's experience, who says that he has
cured chronic catarrhs of the stomach by alternating mix vom,
and calcarea after having uselessly administered these two
remedies singly.
4th. That under the influence of remedies of more or less
different, sometimes even antidotal action, the remedy seems to
react more briskly ; the vitality seems to emerge from the torpor
into which it appeared plunged.
They next proceed to consider the objections made to
alternation.
1st. Alternations were condemned by Hahnemann.
2nd, With alternation it becomes difficult or impossible ta
discuss the characteristic effects of each of the agents employed.
The object of giving remedies being to cure and not to experi-
ment, they regard this objection as having no weight.
8rd. The alternation of medicine is nothing more or less than
a disguised return to polypharmacy. This objection they assert
is only a specious one. Polypharmacy means the simultaneous
employment or mixture in one formula of several different sub-
stances, whilst the method advocated consists in the employment
of single remedies at short intervals,
4th, The alternation of medicines, if elevated to a system, will
simplify too much the practice of homoeopathy ; it will favour the
laziness of medical men, and the usurpation of the art by out-
siders. '
The simplification of the practice of homoeopathy, so far from
being matter for regret, should, they argue, be considered as a
bencd&t.
5th. We can admit strictly the alternation of two medicines,
but that is the extreme limit of the concession we can make Uy
the partisans of alternation.
This objection they regard as speciouSi as, if it is admitted
that two remedies may be alternated, there can be no valid
reason why a greater number should not be used in succession.
The President now resumed the chair, and a discussion on the
Alternation of Remedies, opened by Dr. Clark, took place.
At its conclusion the following papers were presented :—
Ka« 8, YoL 86. S k
498
HEETINOS OF SOCIETIES. ^%l^
Renew, Aflff. 1. tBBL
Drug AUenuatian : Its Influence upon Drug MaUer and Drug
Power,
By Jabbz p. Daks, M.A.. M.D., NashyiUe, U.S.A.
Dr. Dakb opened his paper by stating that the remedy to be
employed in the combat with disease, upon whatoTer therapeniie
principle or theory chosen, must be exhibited in proper form
and quantity, to the end that its inflaence may be satisfactory.
What then, he asks, is the effect of drag attennation npon drag
matter ? What its effect npon drag power ?
Drag attenuation is defined as the diminution of a drag mass
by division and subdivision and admixture with some neutral or
non-medicinal substance as a menstruum or vehicle.
Viewing the question historically, he showed that Hahnemann
adopted this method of dealing with drugs. 1st. To avoid
aggravation of disease from too Iwge a dose. 2nd. To secure a
thorough diffusion of drug particles. Srd. He claimed that
through a better preparedness for absorption and an increased
surface for contact increased power was obtained. 4th. A given
dose of a homoeopathic remedy was increased in power by the
increased susceptibility to it produced by disease. 5th. In
order to explain or account for the action of infinitesimals,
Hahnemann broached the theoiy that medicine does not act
atomically, but dynamically. 6. Hahnemann conceived the
idea that vigorous succussion and trituration effected a great
unknown and undreamed of change by the development and
liberation of the dynamic powers of the medicine.
Passing to the later history of drug attenuation, Dr. Dake
described Eorsakofi^s " dry contact potencies," putting one dxy
medicated globule in a bottle full of pure sugar pellets in order
to medicate the whole ; Jenichen's high potencies ; those of
Lehrmann and Fincke — all of whom had, Dr. Dake observed,
exceeded the .utmost limits thought of by Hahnemann in the
diminution of drug matter and development of drug power.
After noting the observations upon trituration of Begin and
Mayhofer made with the microscope, those of Dr. Breyfog^
made with chemical reagents, those of Professor Edwards Smith,
Professor S. A. Jones, Dr. Lewis Sherman and Professor Conrad
Wesselhoeft with the microscope, those of Professor Wesselhoeft
with the spectroscope, and some of the teachings of analogy, which.
Dr. Dake says, compel us to conclude that potent drug material
may exist in attenuations, where every test save that of the living
animal organism fails to detect its presence, he thence drew the
inferences — 1st. That medicinal substances differ greatiy in theif
cohesive property and divisibility. 2nd. That some may be
readily diffused in minute particles through a menstruum, drd.
That others are comminuted with great difficulty and sloidy.
4th, That in the case of some metals the comminution is modi
B^^Ss^rSm^^ MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. 499
more complete by chemical than bj mechanical measnres. 5th.
That in the decimal or centesimal scale the theoretical or mathe-
matical rate of diminntion in the size of the particles is Very
dijQTerent from the actual. 6th. That by chemical reagents drag
matter can be recognised in no decimal attenuation above the
third ; by the spectroscope, in none above the seventh ; and by
the microscope, in none above the eleventh or twelfth. 7th.
That analogy warrants the belief in drag presence when not a
particle of drag matter can be discerned by direct observation,
inasmoch as impalpable and invisible material agents, as morbific
caoses, have often demonstrated their presence by their destruc-
tive infloence upon the human organism. 8th. That all efforts
must fjEol to attenaate drug matter beyond its ultimate molecule,
the division of a molecule being a reduction of the substance into
its elements, or the destruction of its identity. 9th. That
According to the accepted theory of molecular magnitudes the
ultimate molecule must be reached in the twenty-tibird decimal
attenuation, and that beyond that there must be a gradual dimi-
nution in the number of molecules till all are gone. IQth. That
neither direct observation, nor analogy, nor anything learned of
the conditions and behaviour of drug matter, can justify the
inference that there is a single molecule of medicine in one grain
of the thirtieth attenuation when faithfully made.
Dr. Dake then proceeded to consider the influence of attenua-
tion upon the power of drugs.
In doing BO he noticed some of the leading theories which
have been advanced upon the subject; and first, the earliest
theory of Hahnemann and that still entertained by many of his
disciples, that drug power may be developed but not increased
by the processes of attenuation. That the potential medicinal
force of a given drug mass is in proportion to the number of its
medicinal molecules, and its actual medicinal force in proportion
to the number of its medicinal molecules made superficial or
ready for an immediate contact with nerve tissue, or an imme-
diate absorption and conveyance to its special field in the
organism. That attenuation and trituration have for their ends
simply the overcoming of cohesion in drug matter and comminu-
tion of drug particles.
2nd. In later years Hahnemann inculcated not only the
development but ^e great increase of drug power through
attenuation. Korsakoff believed in the existence of a drug aura ;
Lutze believed in animal magnetism being imparted by the hand
to the dose employed.
Dr. Bachmann*s theory and the recent neuranalytic experi-
ments and the hypotheses of Dr. Lawton were then considered.
In applying the physiological test to the question under dis-
cussion, Dr. Dake referred to Hahnemann's early provings, in
600 MEETINGS OF 80CIETIEB. ''SJ^, Ai^. i, iflU.
irhich dmg power was present beyond any question ; to the
experiments of Professor Conrsd Wesselhceft, those of the
IGhraokee Academy of Medicines, and to those of Dr. Sherman
and Dr. Potter. From these he eoncladed that drags are reeog-
nised in attenuatioDs up to die 7th x by their effects npon the
healthy hnman organism, while in the 8th x and 9th x their
recognition is less certain.
Dr. Dake conclodes his paper with an examination of <^HTiifal
eiperience on drag power.
He points out in the first plaee, the laige variety of inftaenee
besides those pertaining to drags iHiich may determine recoveryr
Gonyendons to hi^ potency viewB have, he shows, oftai
reeolted from a sin^ experience in using tiiem, and this often
after a lower attenuation had been in action, thou^ not
really fruitiesBly for some days. He gives his personal ex-
perience on this point, showing that he was neariy led to plaee
confidence in their preparation because he obeerred fbe
paroxysms of an intennktent fever suddenly stop after the
administration of a sin^ dose of anenic 200, when he had
been exhibiting the 6th and Mth with no apparent benefit.
Another case, one of pneumonia, is reported, where after giving
hycm, 8x witii little apparent benefit, a single dose of the 200th
was followed by a great change for the better. Befieetioii,
however, convinced him thai the change was really due to the
preparation which had been previously administered. Dr. Dake
Inrtiier argues, that not one of the cases reported in journals as
cured with any high dilutions iuznishes a partide of satiafiMtozy
proof that there is medicinal power in attenuations above the
thirtieth dedmaL
linaDy, where homoeopathy has gained her greatest victories,
as in chokra and yellow fever, the battles have been fou^i
almost entirely by means of die lower attenuations.
A PUa/ar a Standard Limit of Attenuate 2>oi«t«
By 0. Ws88BLH<BR, MJ)., Boston, n.S.A«
Dr. Wbssklhcbft, after some introductory remarks of a
general character on the importance of the question of dose,
gives a summary of recent researches that have been made (m
biturations and dilutions. These point to the &ct that the
limits of ip?P"t^"ft«» to which particles of hard insoluble
substances can be reduced are arrived at between the y^th
and the tsVt^ ^ * millimetre.
Dr. Wessdhoeft, in discussing the molecular structure of
matter, showed that, whereas in Hahnemann's time it was
r^arded as infinitely divisible and that consequently homceo-
pathists were on this basis right in proceeding to attenuations
however high, it had now been demonstrated that there was a
^^^TS^ MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. 601
limit beyond which molecnlar diyidbility did not extend. He
then proceeded to estimate, from the calcidations and experi-
ments of Sir William Thompson and Professor Clerk-Maxwell,
that, with the eleventh centesimal dilation, the number of
molecules in a drop of liqnid is exhansted. By a series of
further calculations, he concludes that the supposition of trans-
mission of molecular force, separated from the original medicine
molecules, is untenable in the light of modem molecular science.
Dr. Wesselhoefb then argued that the molecular constitution of
matter demanded the omission from our statistics of all clinical
results obtained with dilutions above the eleventh centesimal.
With regard to the value of clinical experience in enabling us to
■estimate the best standard of dose, Dr. Wesselhoeft contended
that it is at present but slight, owing to the inadequacy of
statistical materials. What is deemed clinical experience con-
sists, he says, of recorded cures with the entire omission of
opposite or negative results, which must be presumed to be
iaige, and a decision will therefore be impossible until '* expe-
rience " includes numerous and accurate statistics of negative as
well as of p9sitive results. Dr. Wesselhoeft concludes by urging
the limitation of the dose to attenuations below the eleventh
■centesimal.
The Question of Doses : Hahnemannism and Homosopathy,
By Dr. Cbetih, Paris, France.
Dr. Cbetin opens his paper by asserting the therapeutic power
'Of infinitesimal doses, but he demands that their degree of this
power be ascertained by experiment alone.
He desires to enquire, 1st, What, for each drug, are the limits
of its therapeutic action ; at what stronger dose does its action
^commence ; at what weaker dose, what attenuation does it cease ?
These limits being fixed, what is, in each case, the dose which
shows itself the most efficacious, the strong, weak, or even the
infinitesimal ?
Dr. Cretin denies that there is any evidence of Hahnemann's
having been led to the use of attenuation in consequence of
aggravation from larger doses ; but that he proceeded to them by
analogies, by indication, by anticipating generalisation, and also
by studies. This he endeavours to make good by analysing
Hahnenuinn's pathological illustrations of the law of similars in
ihe Organon.
In the following two chapters he examines attenuations, dyna-
misations, and medicinal aggravations, and then the practice of
Hahnemann. From this enquiry he concludes that Hahnemann
has not established on any data, rational or experimental, either
the necessity, the utility, or the action of the infinitesimal attenu-
.ations, and still less the aggravations, which, according to him.
602 ICEETINaS OF 80CIBTIB8. ^"^^r^J^Maa!
shoald be at once the proof of the condition and the product of
their action.
The clinical aspect of the infinitesimal dose shows, that the
admission of its power rests upon an experimental basis. The
questions then arise, at what dose does medicinal action be^pn —
ix what attenuation does it cease ? And again, are infinitenmsl
doses preferable to appreciable doses in all cases, or in what cases
only ? A lengthened enquiry in using all dilutions from the SOth
downwards has. Dr. Cretin says, convinced him that the action
of a drug is less sure as the attenuation is high. ** In acute, as
in chronic affection," he adds, '* I have never obtained from the
higher dilutions the results which have been given me in a more
positive fjEishion by the dilution below the sixth, and above all
by the unattenuated medicine.*'
With some remarks on the choice of the dose in individual
medicines, and a comparative view of Hahnemannium and
bomceopathy. Dr. Cretin brings his essay to a dose.
A discussion followed on the relative value of clinical and
extra clinical evidence as to the efficacy of the infinitesimal dose.
On the following morning (Thursday) a sectional meeting was
held of members especially interested in gynieoological studies.
The chair was taken by Dr. Eaton, of Cincinnati. The ipt^pen
on this subject to be brought forward in the afternoon formed
the basis of discussion.
In the afternoon, at the general meeting, business commenced
by the presentation of papers, of whidi the following are
abstracts.
On the Differmdal DiagncaU <md Treatment of Yellow Feter,
By Wm. H. Holcoxbe, M.D., New Orleans, U.S.
After a full definition of yellow fever. Dr. Hokombe spoke of
its geographical range. It is endemic in the islands and cities
of the Atlantic coast of tropical America. From this habitat it
may be transported northward and southward many degrees of
latitude, but very lew of longitude. Yellow fever has no second
week. It and plague are the shortest of all febrile diseases, as
they are also the most &tal. Yellow fever becomes more &tal
as it advances northward. It is the hottest of all fevers. It is
a hemorrhagic fever, the hsmonhages depending on chemical
changes in the blood itself. The jaundiced or icteric condition
is a peculiarity of the fever, and is entirely of blood origin. An
abnormally slow pulse down to 50, 40, and even 80 pulsations is
found in many cases. Yellow fever has a meluicholy pre-
eminence in its marked or latent features, its sudden changes
and terrible surprises requiting more watchful care and vigilant
nursing than any other disease, the danger being often out
proportion to the symptoms.
BSSS^fSTS^ MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 608
Dr. Holeombe then described the posUmorUm appearances of
jeDow fe^er, and then proceeded to compare its phenomena with
those of the other great fevers. In speaking of the treatment
of yellow fever Dr. Holeombe laid especial stress on the import-
ance of nnrsing and hygiene — a sudden noise, movement in bed,
conversation, a piece of bad news, any excitement, the presence
of food in the stomach at the wrong time, the omission of a
stfmnlant at the right moment, being often enough to transform
a hopefdl into a hopeless case.
Of the medicinal treatment, Dr. Holeombe says that we have
no specific for the first or febrile stage of yellow fever. His
paper concluded as follows : —
''It is in the second stage of fevers, when we contend with
local congestions, special inflammations, and the effects of blood
poisonings or other morbid processes, that homceopathy asserts
its specific and unquestionable power. We may not be able to
break or materially shorten the continued fevers, but we can
control the bronchitis of measles, the sore throat of scarlatina,
the suppuration of small-poz, the pneumonia of typhus, the
diarrhoea of typhoid, the jaundice and haemorrhages of yellow
fever, &c., in the most remarkable manner, thereby reducing the
mortality of all those diseases to a point considerably below the
acknowledged allopathic level.
** What enormous services have been rendered in these cases
by those chemically isomorphous substances, arsenic, phosphorus,
and tartar emetic, applied upon the homoeopathic principle 1 To
these may be added, as special remedies for yellow fever, the
snake poisons, lachesis, crotalus, naja tripudians, elaps coraUinus,
and vipera torva, introduced into practice from the loug-recog-
nised resemblance between the symptoms of yellow fever and
those which have followed the bite of serpents. These serpent
poisons will no doubt be foand valuable also in the haemor-
rhages and jaundice of the plague, of typhus, relapsing fever,
biUous typhpid, and malignant remittents.
'' The homoeopathic treatment of yellow fever is still in its
infancy, comparatively speaking, but the results already achieved
constitute one of the strongest arguments ever offered in behalf
of the practice."
Indian Dysentery and Cholera.
By P, W. Caeter, Ph.D., L.M„ &c., Sydney.
This paper opens with a minute account of the phenomena
of Indian dysentery. Then follow a series of well reported
cases of the disease. Dr. Carter makes the following statement
of the results of his practice while in India: ''The total
number of cases,*' he says, " treated by me allopathically up to
the November, 1875, was 218 — deaths 99. Cases treated
£04 UEETINGS OF SOCIETIES, ^'v^
Aefvieir, Aug. 1* IBU.
henuBopaihieiilly np to the end of 1878 (I left India in March,
1879) were 77^ with 14 deaths — all in dispensary practice, whan
the disease, and erery disease, is generally seen in an advanced
stage.*'
With regard to cholera, Dr. Carter had seen little advantage
from the use of camphor even in the stage of invasion. In the
first stage, he says, he did hest with aconite Ix or 0. This,
when given early, prevented the advancement to the second
stage in every instance. In the second stage, verat, alb. 8z,
anen. 8, cup. acet. 2 or 8, sec. cor. 8x, ant. tart. 8x and 8, and
croton 8 were the chief and most reliable remedies. In the
stage of collapse, arsen. 80 was nsed with the happiest results. In
pulmonary congestion, phoe. 8 or 5. When this had grown to
blood-poisoning, with brain symptoms, beU.^ stram^j hyoec. or ac.
hydrocy. were used with better effects than any treatment be had
obtained under old-school practice. Three out of four cases of
intra-cranial effusion yielded to digitalis. In renal congestion,
with albuminuria or suppression and unemia, he found terebi$Uk
8z, kaH hick. 8, canth. 2 or 8, and digit. 8x very effective.
Homaopathy in the Treatment of Diseases prevalent in India.
By Mahendra Lal Sibgab, M.D.
The paper sent in by Dr. Sibcab was found too lengthy for
the Transactions, and to cover more ground than had been
intended. Such portions only were introduced to the Convention
as bore upon the therapeutics of the special types of Indian
disease.
Diarrhoaa, generally traceable to bad food, but sometimes to
extremes of temperature, was first noticed, and the indications
given for the use of china, arsen,, coloc,, puis., &e. Of dysentery,
Dr. Sibgab says, ** In the majority of cases I find ipecac, to be
quite competent to deal with the disease. Failing this I have
recourse to the mere, sol., and in very grave cases to mere, cor.
Other medicines meeting special cases are aconite, beUad,,
canth., capsicum, and colchicum."
The liver is an organ very firequently disordered in India. In
malarious enlargement, remedies that are suitable for the
general condition, prove corrective of it. Aeon, and bry. in
febrile states ; cak. c. especially in young children ; nua. «.
when there is constipation; lycopod. when with constipation
there is tympanitis, especially of the colon. In acute con-
gestion, no remedy equals <iconite; sometimes bryonia iB
required subsequentiy. When the secretory structures are
inflamed, mercury is wanted. In suppuration, aconite and then
cinchona or quinine in massive doses. In very prostrate con-
ditions, arsenic, earb. v., and laehesis are useful.
^S^SSTS^ BtEBTINGS OP SOCIETIES. 506
In hjrpertrophic cirrhoBis with jaundice, laehesis is a capital
remedy. In chjloria, Dr. Sircar has seen good done by earb, v.
.and phospK add. In hydrocele and elephantiasis of the scrottim,
Dr. Sircar has seen benefit derived from nlica^ rhodod&ndronf
and sometimes from rhtts.
Malarious Fever in India,
By Pratap Chandon Majuicba, L.M.S., &c., Calcutta.
This commonication was one of enquiry rather than one
presenting good therapeutic results. Dr. Majumba says that
' quinine f which is almost the only drug resorted to, does more
harm than good in many cases— -^ough useful in some. So fiEtr
as his experience has gone, he has found aconite useless. Bell.,
in some cases of a remittent type, has proved serviceable ; so,
also, has gelseminum, especially in children with a delicate nervous
system. Baptieia foUowed by hryoma, rhu8y arsenic and
muriatic acid, have been of great value in cases where the fever
has assumed a typhoid type. Dr. Majumba concludes by
remarking on the necessity of a careful study of the Materia
Medica in each case, &c.
These papers having been introduced by the President, a dis-
cussion followed on Homoeopathy in Hyper-acute Disease, in-
•cluding Hyper-pyrexia.
The subject of Cancer was then brought before the Conven*
vention in a paper by Dr. Guttebidoe, of which the following is
an abstract :
After some reference to the statistics of cancer, and having
given a definition of the disease, Dr. Gntteridge expressed his
doubts as to the value of microscopic observation and chemical
tmalysis as means of diagnosis. Beferring to the researches of
HavDand on the geographical distribution of disease, he showed
that districts where the mortality from cancer was high were
such as are liable to somewhat long-continued floods from the
overflowing of rivers. He thei) entered on a somewhat minute
differentiation of cancer and simple glandular enlargement.
Passing to the consideration of the propriety of operation, he
showed that extirpation by the knife does not cure cancer, does
not always remove it, and that the liability to return is ever
present, and often an absolute certainty. The results of
enucleation, he says, are in no way more favourable. He con-
cludes, therefore, that cancer patients do better when treated
medicinally alone. In scirrhus he pointed out the indications for
heU, and eonium. Oicuta is also named as usefdl. Of all most
generally useful remedies. Dr. Qntteridge speaks most favourably
of kydrastis, and especially of Tilden's preparation hydraetin,
intimately incorporated with an equal quantity of hydrastis.
When this drug is given internally a lotion of the tincture or
506 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. ^SS^r.^S^ifMa!
powdered root should be applied at the same time. When
nlceration has taken plaee, Dr. Gntteridge laid great stress on
the Talue of hydrastis, hamamflUf comocladia, bapttsm, and the
iodide of arsenic^ pointing out the special indications for the use
of each.
In epithelioma, Dr. Grntteiidge drew attention to ranuneuhUf
arsenicy and hydrastu as medicines from which the best resnlts
had accrued. In discussing the treatment of cancer of the
stomach, he pointed out the indications for the use of
ranunculus, phosph,, argent, nitric, arsenic, hydnuHs, and
baptisia. With some observations on the nature of the diet best
adapted to cases of cancer, Dr. Gntteridge concluded his paper.
A discussion ensued on the Possibilities of Medicine in
Cancer.
Papers were then presented on gynaecological subjects, the
first being by Dr. Edwabd Blase, On the Place of Mechanical
Measures in Pelvic Disease.
After some introductory remarks on the anatomy and
physiology of the uterus, Dr. Blake argued that the greater
number of the disorders of the female pelvis may be included in
four categories — 1, Mechanical changes acting from vrithont;
2, Mechanical changes acting from within ; 8, Physiological
changes acting from without; 4, Physiological changes acting
from within.
" The inclination,** said Dr. Blake," of the dominant schod
of therapeutics, is probably whilst attaching undue importance
to mechanical methods to ignore the second or vital side ; whereas
our own tendency as undoubtedly is to decry the former.*'
Dr. Blake said that during the first six years of his practice
he abjured local physical examination ahnost entirely, and worked
laboriously at subjective symptomatology, with comparatively
unsatisfactory results ; that during the succeeding six ye&rs he
turned his attention to the use of various means of physical
diagnosis, but without using any mechanical contrivances for
the purpose of local treatment ; while during this time he fre-
quently witnessed through homoeopathy the temporary removal of
results of morbid processes without necessanly attacking the
cause ; he never during this time witnessed the smallest cervical
excoriation healed under the influence of internal medicatkui
alone, even when such medication was carried on under the most
favourable circumstances. Sulgective symptoms Dr. Blake
relies on to differentiate between a group of cloeely-aUied
remedies, but to lead up to that group for diagnostic and prog-
nostic purposes he trusted solely to objective signs.
Dr. Blake ooncluded his paper by urging greater attention to*
the mechanical causes of diseases^
SaSHAS^Ti^ MKBTINAS OP SOCIETIES. SOT
On the TretOment of Common Metritis, egpecially that Form
known <u Endo-CervicUU, with Vlcsration of the Cervix,
By D. Dtgb Brown, M.A., M.D.
Dr. Brown cozomenoed his paper by dwelling on the imperfec-
tions which exist in onr proyings, so far as they relate to chronic
uterine inflammation. A medicine to be selected in this class of
disease mnst show — Ist, from the provings filled np by the
results of clinical observation, that it has a specific relation to
the genital organs by producing disordered menstruation,
leocorrhoea, oyarian pain, &c. ; or, 2nd, if the symptoms should
be scanty in the provings, the medicine must be one which
shows a spedfie affinity for mucous membrane in general, pro-
ducing catarrh or acute inflammation, with their results in the
shape of increased secretion or ulceration ; or, 8rd, it is of the
utmost importance that it should *' cover" the constitutional
dyscrasia that may be present with the various symptoms
referable to other organs than the uterus and ovaries. In
other words it must cover the totality of the symptoms.
The greatest amount of success Dr. Brown thought was
attainable, when a remedy is selected which covers the general
state of disordered health, more especially if this remedy is
known to have a specific a£Snity for the uterine organs.
Before considering medicines. Dr. Brown drew attention to
local applications. Weak solutions of astringent remedies he
regarded as acting in accordance with the homoeopathic law in
eases of chronic inflammation. When first practising homoe-
opathy he thought that such applications as nitrmte of silver
hastened the cure of disease of the cervix. Clinical observa-
tion had, however, convinced him that with specific general
treatment such applications as nitrate of silver, iodine, carbolic
add applied by the mop through the speculum were unnecessary.
Just, however, as everyone would use water dressing or calendula
or Hydrastis to promote healing in ulcerated si^aces so he
employed these means in such cases. When in addition to
ulceration the cervix was hypertrophied, glycerins diluted with
water or with a few drops of Hydrastis added was useful. Where
vaginal catarrh is excessive injection of calendula and Hydrastis,
or even in chronic cases of a weak solution of zinc or alum,
were beneficial. In suitable cases Dr. Brown attached great
importance to the wet compress and to the tepid sitz bath.
Dr. Brown then pointed out the indications for the use of
medicines. Belladonna, he said, was required in almost every
case of chronic cervicitis with ulceration at some period of its
progress. The indications were fuUy and minutely given, but
at too much length to allow of our transcribing them here. Sul-
phur he found often required, especially in cases of chronic
508 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. ^'bSIS^A^!^^.
mflammation of the yenoos type — ^when that sluggish state of
the system exists which refuses to respond to the action of
medicines. The symptomatological indications were then giyen.
Sepia, he showed, was indicated in endo-cervicitis, where the
uterus is enlarged, prolapsed, or where version has occurred.
When there is a tendency to skin eruptions, &c., Pulsatilla,
he pointed out at some length, was indicated in cervical
disease hy the appearance, complexion, and temperament of
the patient, the scanty or irregdar menstruation, the men-
strual pain, the leucoirhoea, prevailing ehiUiness, aggrava-
tion of symptoms in the evening, hut especially by the
gastric or gastro-intestinal catarrh with headache. Actaa
corresponded to the nervous, neuralgic, hyper-s&sthetic patient
suffering from uterine disease. The coincidence of cervical in-
flammation, slight or severe, with well-marked hyper-festhesia
(showing itself by the spinal tenderness, the peculiar head-aches,
the palpitation and sleeplessness from mental depression, or
alternation of depression with excitement, and sinking pain at
the epigastrium) indicates the kind of case in which it is usefdL
Ignatia was indicated rather by the general state of nervousnesB
that characterised some cases than by local manifestations of
•disease. Calcarea earbomca in cervical disease associated with
struma he describes as a remedy of immense value, especially
if the catamenia are too frequent and profuse. Lycopodium is
useful in cases where the pelvic organs are congested and leucor-
rhoea and endo-cervicitis are set up in consequence of the liver
and portal circulation becoming congested. The condition
requiring nux vomica resembles that in which Lycopodium
is useful. Mercury is especially indicated in cases of endo-
cervicitis, when the ulceration is of an unhealthy and sloughy
type, and when vaginal catarrh with thick leucorrhoea is
present to a marked degree ; 2, when gonorrhcea has extended
upwards to the uterus; 8, when syphilitic ulceration is made
-out, or when there is reason to expect a syphilitic taint; 4,
when the collateral symptoms, those of the stomach, liver^ and
intestines, especially call for mercury. Dr. Brown also noticed
LiUum graphites, arsenic, and platina as often indicated in
uterine disease, and concluded by saying that, in his opinion^
we quite as often require to select our remedy less on the
grounds of its local action than on those of the systemic dis-
turbance or constitutional taint which may be present in a given
case, and the more carefully such selection is made the better it
seemed to him were the results.
On the Treatment of some of the Affections of the Cervix Uteri.
By Geo. M. Carfbab, M.I>.
Dr. Carfrae commenced with some remarks on the unsatis-
factory character of much of the Materia Medica, and this especially
SS^iS^M^ MEETINGS OF SOCIBTIBS. 609'
9B related to the action of medicmes on the cervix nteri. Be-
8tricting hia attention to the consideration of cervical endo-
metritis, or cervical catarrh, or uterine leucorrhoea and granular
erosion, or ulceration of the cervix, he entered into a full account
of the etiology, symptomatologj, and pathology of the condition.
P&Bsing to the treatment he divided it into constitutional and
local. In discussing the former he took Guernsey's book on
Obstetrics^ and examined the medicines named therein as
applicable to this condition. He insisted that as leucorrhoea
was a constant symptom of this disease it ought to be among
the phenomena produced by each medicine adapted to cure it,
if the totality of the symptoms was to be our guide. Many of '
the medicines recommended by Guernsey have not this symptom
in their provings. Of the provings of others, it must, he
thought, be admitted that they were unreliable. He then pro-
ceeds to examine seriatim all the medicines named by Ghiemsey,
concluding that out of seventy-two such remedies about a dozen
and a half have no leucorrhosa in the list of symptoms attributed
to them ; while about one half of the whole number have been
proved, Dr. Carfrae thinks, in a manner too loose to merit our
confidence, reducing the number of drugs, the provings of
which entitle us to look upon them as ixulj homoeopathic to
cervical leucorrhoea to scarcely a dozen; and of these Dr.
Garfrae is doubtful of at least six. Of eleven other medicines
recommended by Hale the value is chiefly empirical, few of them<
having been thoroughly proved.
Beading the Materia Medioa as poor in relation to truly
homodopathic remedies in cervical leucoirhoaa and granular
and folHcidar disease of the cervix, he asks, do we get any help
from local applications, and, if so, from what? He then
examines the views of Guernsey^ Madden, Leadam, Ludlam,
and Hale, with regard to the use and mode of action of
externally-applied irritants. He concludes that we are far
from having arrived at that amount of scientific precision
which is desirable or attainable. This he attributes to
some extent to the number of unreliable provings which
are incorporated in our text books. To some extent also
is it due to the difficulty of getting good provings of drugs^
which have a specific relation to the utenis; while, lastiy,
the semeiology of these afiections is often very vague and
no sure indication of their pathological condition. To admit
that the combined local and constitutional treatment of cervi-
citis, granular, erosion, &c., gives the patient the best hope of a
cure is to allow that our treatment is to a certain extent
empirical. '* This," he adds, '' I fear must be so, until we have
a reformed Materia Medica.'* As medicines. Dr. Garfrae relies
ichiefly on arsstdGf mercurius^ nux vcmca^ phosphorus^ pulstUiUar.
^10 BiEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. "^SSrfi^^lfSl!
sdbina, $epia, vadferrum, while gdseminumf helomoM^ hamamdk^
UUum, Phytolacca, and anthoxylum are, he thinks, valnaUe
additions to onr armamentarinm, but requiring more thorough
proving. The best local applications are chromic^ carboUCf and
nitric acids, and nitrate of siher.
He concludes by hoping that ultimatelj we may treat these
-cases altogether without tibe aid of local applications. So long
as these are used we must admit that onr treatment is, to a
certain extent, unscientific and unsatisfactory. When we can
abolish them it will be because we have attained that amount of
scientific preciaon which meanwhile it must be our constant
endeavour to reach.
A discussion followed on the Influence of Homoeopathy on
Uterine Disease, at the conclusion of which the meeting
adjourned.
On Friday afternoon the subjects of general, ophthalmic, and
aural surgery were brought under the consideration of the Gon-
vention, and received full discussion.
The first contribution presented was from Dr. Bojantts, of
Nischny-NoYOgorod, in Bussia. It was in the form of a book,
entitled, Homceopathic Therapeutics in its application to Operative
Surgery, and upon this Dr. Dudgeon prepared a report, giving a
brief resume of its contents. It is occupied with a detailed
analysis of the operations performed in the hospital to which th«
author is attached.
Surgical Therapeutics is the Bubjeot of Dr. J. C. Mcnuuir's
(Philadelphia) contribution to the Transactions,
Dr. Morgan commences his paper with some remarks on the
comparative value of aconite in wounds and other injuries. In
these classes of cases. Dr. Morgan contends that aconite is
superior to arnica — 1, in iiyuries of the eyeballs ; 2, in the
reaction which occurs some hours after an ii^ury; 8, in the
commencement of a sprain. Dr. Morgan then adduoes some
illustrations of the sorbefacient effects of the internal ezhibitioB
of hydrastis 80, sepia Im, arsen,, iod, dx, and hypericum 2x in
mammary tumours.
Passing to tumours of the uterus and ovaries, Dr. Morgan has
no records of absolute cure by drugs, but he can say that in no
case has it been necessary to submit any such to a surgical pro-
cedure, except the pedunculated polypi, fibrous} and mucous;
these he has uniformly removed by the wire Scraseur, AH
others he has treated with drugs '* in potency " for months and
years, according to the various changes of symptoms, to the
great satisfaction of patients, ;Rrho in sheer desperation had
previously courted the most formidable resources of surgery.
Dr. Morgan concludes by giving the charaeterirtio indications
ibr the use of a number of medicines in the treatment of tomomt.
IS^S^Utm!^ MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. 511
Dr. Watson, of Hsmmersmith, eontribnted a paper entitled
Surgical ObserwUions, which consisted of some general observa-
tions on the pathology and treatment of abscess, illnstrated by
several cases.
A discussion then ensaed on the Help bronght to the Snrgeon
by Homoeopathy, in which Dr. Dmm, Dr. M'Clelland, Dr.
Helmnth, and ottiers took part.
A Paper on the Therapeutics of Iritis, by Dr. Vilas, of Chicago,
was then presented*.
Dr. Vilas declined to discnss the cnrability of iritis by internal
remedies alone, because he is of opinion that internal medication
alone will never cnre all cases wluch might be cored were they
treated with all the means at onr command. The first point in
the treatment, he says, consists in perfect rest of both eyes,
shnttmg ont of bright light, and protection from injorioiui
changes of temperature. The second consists in obtaining
•complete rest for the iris. Of all mydriatics, atropium, he said,
was the best, and the best preparation a carefully prepared
^phate. The advantages to be obtained and dangers to be
avoided were folly pointed out. Various other mydmtics were
noticed by Dr. Vilas. In all cases, save those in which there
are no synechisd likely to form, can, he alleged, a mydriatic be
safely dispensed with. If there be exudation from the iris, and
it is not drawn away from its resting place, the anterior lens
•capsule, synechiffi must form, and more or less firmly tie down
the iris. Dr. Vilas next considered the indications for the use
of internal remedies. These comprised some twenty-eight
drugs, and form a usefol collection of references for ophthalmic
surgery. We must, however, direct our readers to the
Tranuactione for their study.
The Treatment of Iritis, simple and syphilitic, was then made
the subject of discussion, the debate being opened by Dr.
Bushrod James, of Philadelphia.
This being terminated, the last paper to be presented to the
donvention, that by Dr. Goofbk, of London, on Aural Surgery,
was introduced under the title. Notes an some Jlomaopatkie
Esmedies in Aural Disease, After some introductory remarks on
the position of the therapeutics of aural surgery. Dr. Cooper
pointed out the indications for the use of the following medi*-
icines in different forms of deafriess : — GeUeminnm, Hydrastis
canadensis, picric acid, capsicum, arnica, rkus, ignatia, quinine,
amyl nitrite, chloroform, salicylic acid, and salicylate of soda,
eypis melUfica, lachesis, slaps, cor,, crotahts, formica, naja, and
vespa. In reviewing his experience, Dr. Cooper says that the
conclusion is forced upon him that very long standing eases are
best met by highly dynamised preparations; these, beyond
question, he says, excoi a most powexfol and satisfiEtoiory
512 HEETiNas OF socnTiEB. "^^^J^f^M?;
inflnenee. He especuJlj names pkotph. and cdlearea as
wbieh in a hif^ dilation haTe proTed of most essential sendee.
After Dr. Cooper's paper had been introdneed a discussion
ensaed on the plan of HonuBopathic Medication in Ear Disease.
The ConTention assembled at two o'clock on the following day
for the transaction of miscellaneous business.
The report of the Conmiittee and the President's address were
brought forward, and as practical results it was determined to
appoint a committee, consisting of one or more skilled phaima*
ceutists in each country represented by the ConTention, to
co-operate with the editor of the Pharmaeopaia of ths BrUiA
Homaoptukie Society in the preparation (^ a pharmacopoua
which shall be adopted by all nations.
It was also resolTed that a permanent secretary of Inter-
national HomcBopathic CouTentions be appointed, aiid to this
office Dr. Richard Hughes was unanimously appointed.
After some couTenwtion, it appeared to be the wish of the
members of the ConTention that the meeting of the ConTention,
which would in the ordinary course of CTents be held in 1886,
should take place at Brussels.
The statistics of the ConTention were presented by the Presi-
dent, from which it appeared that 78 British, 81 American,
4 Fiench, 1 Italian, and 1 Bussian physician had entered their
names on the books of the Congress, while there is reascm to
belieTe that some 20 Biitish practitioners had been present at
the meetings, but had omitted to record the &ct of their
presence.
After Tciy cordial Totes of thanks to the President, mee-
I^nesident, Secretaries, and Treasurer, the members separated.
THE BRITISH HOMCEOPATHIC SOCIETY
CONVERSAZIONE.
(comcuiacATED.)
On Thursday CTening, the 14th ult., the Members of the
International Homoeopathic ConTention were entertained at a
ConTcrsazione held at the rooms of The Society of Britiflh
Artists in Suffolk Street, and a brilliant company was innted to
meet them.
The Tisitors, to the number of 260, were receiTed by ^e
President of the Society and Mrs, Pope. The stair-oass,
entrance-hall, and the cldef rooms were most tastefully de-
eorated with flowers, while the unusually fine collection of
pictures, which were on ezhibitian at the time, was a source of
much interest and pleasure, and afforded a fine back-ground te
the display of the ladies' dresses.
The chief feature of the eTming's amusement was the mnmct
tX^T^ MEBilNGS OF SOCIBTIEB. 618
vhich was of a Teiy high order. M. Niedzielski performed
twice on the violin with that degree of brilliancy for which he is
now BO well known in London mosical circles. His second piece,
entitled '< Sonvenir de H£^ydn,'*bj Leonard, was remarkably fine,
and an irresistible eneare was the resnlt, which M. Niedzielski
obligingly gratified. Miss Meredith Brown and Miss Nellie
Bnmmers were the solo vocalists. The former, a deep
contralto, sang ''The Three Bavens,*' an old English ballad,
and Madame Sainton-Dolby *s song " Ont on the Rocks/' The
latter, a very sweet soprano, '' When the Tide comes in," and
** A Summer Shower." Botii were in excellent voice, and were
received with mnch applause. In the course of the evening
Mr. Burgess Perry's Glee Party enlivened the company with
several excellently rendered glees and part-songs, to the great
Batis£ftction of the visitors.
The reunion was much enjoyed by all present, and the feeling
that it had proved a great success was very generally expressed.
The President of the Society and Mrs. Pope may be congratulated
on having added greatiy to the pleasures which those present at
the Convention experienced during the week.
The only cause of inconvenience was the intense heat^ — it was
the evening of the hottest day of the hottest week of the year.
This, unfortunately, was not under the control of mine host.
THE DINNER.
To go through a week of hard work and bring the proceedings
to a close without a dinner would be too un-English to be endured.
Gonsequentiy, though no part of the programme of the Conven-
tion, it was determined, chiefiy at the instigation of Dr. Burnett
and Dr. Roth, that our guests from America and the Continent
* should be entertained at a public dinner ere they left London.
The idea had but to be broached to be taken up with alacrity
and zeal by many homoeopathic practitioners, and an adequate
subscription list was filled within two or three days.
On the evening of Friday, the 15th, about one hundred
British, American, and Continental practitioners dined together
at the '< Criterion," in Piccadilly. The chair was occupied by
Dr. Hughes, the I^sident of the Convention, and the vice-chair
by Dr. Pope. The dinner was excellent and well served, and
the wine was good. Mr. Burgess Perry's Glee Party attended,
and on the removal of the cloth, sang '* Non Nobis Domine "
very effectively. The CHiiiBHAN then proposed '' The Health of
the Queen," which was drunk right heartily, and followed by
" God Save the Queen," from Mr. Perry and his Mends. ''The
Health of the Prince and Princess of Wales and all the Members
of the Royal FamOy" was proposed by Dr. Pope and responded
to very cordially. This was followed by a glee, ** The Sailor's
Home."
Ho. 8, voL 26. 2 L
614 MEETINGS OF SOGIETIEB. ^'S^fSSthm,
The " Memory of Hahnemann " was proposed by Dr. Db
GsBBDOBFF, of Boston, who when a child had been a patient
of '' The Master." Dr. De GersdorTs father, the Baron De
Gersdorff, was one of Hahnemann's most zealous and self-
sacrificing provers. The toast was drunk in solenm silence.
*' Prosperity to Medical Education ** was then proposed by
Dr. Yon Dittmakn, of St. Petersburg, and responded to by
Dr. Talbot, the Dean of the Medical Faculty of Bioston.
Dr. Burnett then proposed ** Prosperity to American Sur-
gery,*' which was responded to in a humorous speech by Dr.
Helmuth, of New York, during the course of which he succen-
fully magnified his office by reciting an original poem in honour
of surgery^ a production which was received with immense
applause.
<< Medical Literature ** was proposed by Dr. Dudgkok, and
responded to by Dr. Fosteb, of Chicago.
This was followed by an extremely effectiye song by Mr.
Perry, entitled ** The Boatswain's Story."
Dr. BusHBOD James, of Philadelphia, then proposed ^^ Success to
Homoeopathic Hospitals," which was responded to by Dr.
M'Olelulnd, of Pittsburg, who gave a very graphic account of
the duties of a hospital surgeon in the United States.
*^ Prosperity to Homoeopathic Societies " was proposed by Dr.
Methoffeb, and responded to by Dr. Bbeyfogle, the President-
elect of the American Institute of Homoeopathy.
Then came a beautiful glee, ^' Haste ye soft gales." After
which Dr. Dbysdale proposed the <* Health of our American
Guests, to which Dr. Conbad Wesselhceft responded.
Our ** Continental Guests " was proposed by Dr. Pops, and
responded to by Dr. Claude, of Paris.
Dr. Dake, of Nashville, then proposed the " Health of the
President and Vice-President," who responded.
Several impromptu toasts were afterwards proposed and drank
with much enthusiasm, among which was one by Dr. Buxnktt,
that was especially well received — ** The Health of the President
of the United States," coupled with an earnest wish for his
speedy recovery from the wound received from an insane
assassin.
After leaving the dining-hall a considerable amount of time
was spent in the hat-room in saying *' good-byes," and many
and most gratifying were the expressions of the pleasure onr
guests had enjoyed during the week.
No event of the week was productive of more eiyoyment,
k none more thoroughly successful than this closing dinner, and Dr.
< Burnett, on whose shoulders rested the chief burden of making
[ arrangements for it, may well be congratulated On the succesi 0^
^ bis efforts.
r
f^ggff^?^^ NOTABILIA. 516
NOTABILIA.
TESTIMONIAL TO LORD EBURY.
Ws much regret being obliged to omit the list of Bubseribers
to the testimonifd which is being raised io Lord Ebnry, in
consequence of the nnnsual pressure upon our space by the
reports of the proceedings of the International Homoeopathio
GonTention. But we are sure that our readers will be pleased to
learn that a sufficient sum has been subscribed to enable the
Committee to enter into arrangements with an artbt of high
repute to paint a full length portrait of the noble lord for
presentation to Lady Ebury. Due notice will be given of its
completion, so that subscribers may haye an opportunity of
viewing the work.
THE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL AND HYGEE5NE
EXHIBITION IN SOUTH KENSINGTON.
OuB readers will be interested in hearing of some of the con-
tributions made to this exhibition by a few of our homoeopathic
colleagues.
Drs.Drysdale and Hayward exhibit drawings, plans, and books
of their warming and ventilating system for houses. This system
has been successfully carried out in the houses of our two
friends at Liverpool. About two or three years ago a mansion
was built on the Hove estate in Brighton, warmed and ventilated
after this manner, when a number of medical and other scientific
men were invited to listen to a clear explanation of this excel-
lent system from Dr. Hayward. The principal feature of the
plan is a central shaft with warm air, which distributes an
uniform degree of warmth over the house, while the kitchen fire
acts on a shaft which carries off all the foul air. Within twenty
minutes all the air in the house can be renewed without any
draught ; the fresh warm air enters on one side of the ceiling,
while the foul air is absorbed on the other. In summer, the air
which enters the house can pass through wet, cold blankets and
sheets ; thus the air in the room is cooled, while the outer tempera-
ture is higher. What a benefit at such a hot season afl that
through which we have just passed. We recommend all our
readers interested in home comforts and the prevention of
disease to study Drs. Drysdale and Hayward's books and
plans.
Dr. Dudgeon, who has most generously placed his invention
of the best sphygmograph at the disposition of all manufacturers
of medical and scientific instruments, exhibits this instrument.
We hope our colleagues of the old school will appreciate the
merits of this sphygmograph, one which can be applied to
young and old in a recumbent, sitting, or standing position,
516 HOTABEUA. '^ggS^.A.^.f.MB.
wiihont cansing the patient the slightest trouble. The pressure
on the pulse can be changed from one to fonr ounces, so that
the medical man can use it whether the patient is weak or
strong. As the price is only one-third of the original and
incomplete sphygmograph, we can but encourage our coUeagnei
to provide themselves with this beautiful and exact instrument.
They will soon find out that the old practice of ATfLnn'ning the
pulse by the finger is very uncertain and incorrect, as it depends
upon tLe individuality of the medical man, whose touch or
pressure vary according to his general state of health and strengtL
There are some exhibits planned and carried out according to
the ideas of another of our colleagues, who for many yean has
taken much interest in hygiene — ^Ih*. Both.
These are the publications of the Ladies' Sanitary Associatioiif
which was originated twenty-five years ago by Dr. Roth, who,
with the assistance of Lady Mount-Temple (at that time the
Honourable Mrs. William Cowper), by Lady Ebury (at that
period Lady Bobert Grosvenor), and Mme. La Comtesse da
Noailles, nee Miss Trevelyan, and succeeded in establishing this
society, which has published one and a half million of sanitaiy
tracts, beginning with one on '^The Health of Mothers," and
" How to Manage a Baby."
Besides numerous popular lectures on sanitary laws, the
society has distributed patterns of hygiene dresses for babiee,
infants, and children.
As Dr. Both's name is not mentioned in connection with this
important work, we suppose that the committee and the secre-
tary have forgotten that they owe all to him.
Messrs. Coleman and Glendinning, of Wigmore Street and
Norwich, exhibit Dr. Both's hygiene school desk and chair.
These have now been introduced into many schools, and are at
present the best for comfort and health, because the body is aUe
to lean while writing, reading, and drawing. The table or desk
is movable, drawn to the writer, which prevents round and
high shoulders, flat chests, deformities of the spine. Our
readers are recommended when visiting the exhibition to trj
these chairs and to judge for themselves how comfortable they are.
The Society for the Prevention of Blindness and the Improve-
ment for the Physique of the Blind — Hon. Treasurer (pro tem.)
Dr. Both — exhibit their papers, reports, and the best advice to
mothers who do not wish their children to be blind. Half the
blindness in Europe, amounting to 800,000 cases, is caused by
the ignorance of mothers regarding the preventible and curable
inflammation of the eyes of the new bom. Of three persons
who are blind two are blind through ignorance and neglect
A series of twelve gymnastic models are also exhibited (which
many years ago were modelled from life by a French sculptor,
JSaSy^MTSST HOTABIUA, 617
Mr. Megraiy onto Dr. BoUi*8 saperintendenee), tfaoM serve for
the phjdcal ednotttum of the hlind.
We reconunend those interested in the diminntion of blindness
and in a better physical state of the blind, to address themselres
to the hon. secretary, 48, Wimpole Street, London, W., for
farther information, and hope they inSl try to make it known
that, as Dr. Both says, ^* people have no bosiness to be blind."
THE LANCET ON HOMCBOPATHY.
Om the 21st of May last, the Lancet published a leading article,
in which the writer admitted, as true, nearly eyerything that
homoeopathic practitioners have hitherto contended for. Three
letters from well known homoBopathic physiciaDs were immediately
addressed to oxa contemporary, pointing oat this fact. After
three weeks delay — ^snggestive of a good deal of discussion as to
whether they shonld appear or not — ^these letters were published.
By way of a " make- weight," a paragraph appeared in another
portion of the Lancet deliberately misrepresenting the purport of
these communications. That, however, it would seem, is not
atonement enough for the Lancet to mikke for having pablished
a nearly complete recognition of homoeopathy. Tbe ghost of
its founder would seem to have been stirred up, to have
** knocked " or " rapped " Yoeiferonsly at the editorial door, and
having gained admission to the sanctum, to have denounced,
after the manner of former days, any conclusions whatever in
favour of homoeopathy. And now, in consequence of all this
hubbub, we find Uie Lancet of the 16th nit. appealing to the
British Medical Association to re-enact the resolutions of 1851,
resolutions denouncing as false that which two months before the
Lancet had declared to be true 1
It is really a matter of very Httle consequence to any one,
except members of the British Medical Association, whether their
resolutions are repeated, or whether they are not. The only
effect that any re-enactment of them can have will be to stamp
those engaged in the operation as a body of blind, stupid dolts,
incapable of learning anything or of perceiving the signs of the
times. These resolutions are so well known that it is unnecessary
for us to reproduce them here, especially as they are folly set
forth in the Lancet of the 16th. The first has, we may state,
been proved to be utterly erroneous by the general experience of
the profession. The second is a pure fabrication, and has not
and never had any justification in fact. Upon these two reso-
lutions hang all the rest, except the ninth, which is as genuine a
piece of cant as ever was uttered by Mr. Pecksniff. The Lancet
describes the^ resolutions as '* excellent, decided, straightforward,
honest 1" And then proceeds, with an apparent effort at a
sigh, to say, <' but in view of recent events and expressions of
518
notabuja.
B«Tiew, Ang. 1, IM.
opinion, there is room for question whether, with inereaaing age,
this Association, or rather some of its leaders, may not hare lost
part of their early zeal for ' honesty ' in professiomd conduct ! "
Maoh as the Laneet may desire to imitate the efforts of the lale
Mrs. Partington, who strove hard to prevent the incursion of the
waves of an advancing tide with her mop, we suspect that the
present crusade against therapeutic trutii will terminate after
much the same manner — the pen will he as impotent against
truth, as the mop was against the sea !
Let the opponents of homoeopathy pass their resolutions if
they can. No intelligent physician or surgeon will attach the
slightest importance to them.
But the Association cannot pass them if it would. It is now
a "Limited Company," and registered under the Friendly
Societies* Act — and as their resolutions and their consequent bye-
laws are " in restraint of trade," they are inadmissible in point
of law I
How can Wakley*s ghost be propitiated ? Alas ! How ?
HAHNEMANN PUBLISHING SOCIETY.
A UEETiNa of this Society was held on Wednesday, the 12th alt.,
Dr. Hughes in the chair. We are compeUed by the pressure on
our space to postpone the publication of the report until our neit
number.
LIST OF SUBSCmBERS TO THE INTERNATIONAL
HOMOEOPATHIC CONVENTION, 1881.
£ B. d.
Br. A. P. Anderson 110
Dr. Bajes 2 2 0
Br. Baynes 110
Br. William BeU 110
Br.Blaok 110
Br. Charles Blackley 110
Dr. GaUey Blackley 1 1 0
Dr. 5. Blake 110
Dr. GibbB Blake 1 1 0
Dr. Blumberg 1 1 0
Dr.Blyth 110
Dr. Bodman 110
Dr. Biadfihaw 1 1 0
Dr. Brooks 110
Dr. Dyce Brown 110
Dr. Samuel Brown 110
Dr. Biyce 1 1 0
Dr. Buck 110
Dr. Burnett 1 1 0
Dr. Burwood 1 1 0
Dr. Butcher 1 1 0
Mr. Cameron 110
Honbl. Dr. A. Campbell... 110
BcGaxfrae ,.«•..... 1 1 0
£ B. d.
Dr. Cash
Dr. Chalmers
Dr. Clare
Dr. Clarke
Dr. A. Clifton
Dr. Oeorge Clifton ....
Dr. ColUna
Dr. Cooper
Dr. Cronin
Dr. Crouoher
Dr. Dixon
Dr. Druiy
Dr. Diysdale ...,
Dr. Dndgeon ,
Dr. W. Ford Edgelow
Mr. Engall
Dr. Epps
Dr. FKnt
Dr. Galloway ,
Dr. Gibson
Dr. Goldsborough ....
Dr. Gould
Dr. Guiness
Dr. Ghitteridee ,
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
fl
0
0
0
0
0
Boview, Aug. 1, 1861.
GOBBESPOKDBNOE.
519
Dr. Hale
Dr. E.Hall
Dr, Hamilton
Dr. Harris
Dr. Harper
Dr. Hawkos
Dr. Hayle
Dr. Hayward
Dr. Hewan
Dr. Hughea
Dr. Johnson
Dr. Jagielski
Dr. Ker
Dr. London
Dr.M'Hwniith
Dr. E. Madden
Dr. Kaffej
Dr. Marsden
Dr. Mackeohnie
Dr. Maciniosh
Dr. Mahony
Dr. Mansell
Dr. Markwlck
Dr. Massy .^
Dr. Matheson
Dr. Metcalfe
Dr.Mmm
Mr. Mills
Dr. Douglas Moir
Dr. Samuel Morgan
Major Yaughan- Morgan...
Dr. Morrisson
Dr. H. Nankivell
Bir. J. H. NankiveU
Dr.NeUd
Dr. Nicholson
Mr. Noble
Mr. Nonnan
Dr. Perkins
Dr. Pope
Dr. Potta
Dr. Prater
Dr. Proctor
Dr. Powell
Dr. Pordom
Dr. Pnllar
Dr. Fybnm
Dr. Bamsbotham
£ B. d.
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
£ 8. d*
Mr. Bowbotham
Mr. Beynolds
Dr. E. B. Boche
Dr. JohnBoche
Dr. W. Boche
Dr. Both
Dr. Sandberg
Dr. W.Scott
Dr. Scriven
Dr. Shaw
Mr. C. E. Shaw
Dr. Shepherd
Dr. Shuldham
Dr. Smark
Dr. Stephens
Dr. Stiles •••
Dr. Stokes
Dr. Siiss-Hahnemann ...
Dr. Tuckey
Dr. Wynne Thomas
Dr. Ussher
Dr. Wallace
Dr. H. Wheeler
Dr. W. Wheeler
Mr. Whitehead
Dr. Wielobycki
Dr. John Wilde
Dr. Percy Wilde
Dr. A. Williams
Dr. Eubnlus Williams ...
Dr. WoLiton
Dr. Neville Wood
Mr. Thorold Wood
Dr. Woodgates
Dr. George Wyld
Dr. Yeldham
Chemists.
Messrs. Epps, London ...
Messrs. Gould, London ...
Mr. Gillett, Sonthport ...
Messrs. Eeene & Ashwdl,
London 5
Messrs. Leath A Boss,
London 10
Mr. Martin, Melbourne ... 5
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
5
1
1
1
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
5
5
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
5 0
10
5
0
0
Total £188 8 0
FRANCIS BLACK, Treasurer.
CORRESPONDENCE.
INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION.
To the Editors of the Monthly HomcBopathic Eeview.
GxMTLEMXN,— There is reason to believe that some of the
medical men present at our reoent Conyentioa did not enter
520 OOBilESPOKDBNTS. "S^^S??^
Bemwy Aug. 1, im.
their names in the Secretaries* books. If this letter shooH
meet the eye of any who fiuled so to do» I shall be mach obliged
if they will send me their names and addresses at onee» that I
may hkye a oomplete list for insertion in the Transactions.
Yonrs Tery respectfully,
BiCHABD HuQHES, PermanetU Secretary,
86, Billwood Boad, Brighton.
July, 19th, 1881.
ERRATUM.
To the Editore of the Monthly HomaoptUhic Review,
Gentlemen, — ^My attention has been directed by Br. Proctor
to an error in an article on Albuminuria in the last (Joly)
number of the British Journal of Homaopatht/j the editors of
which have kindly promised to insert an erratum to the following
effect : — p. 264, Ime 12, for six grain doses read one grain
doses ; and line 18, for has read have. But as their jounud
will not appear for two months, and as I wish the error to be
corrected as soon as possible, will you kindly giTe insertion to
this in your forthcoming number, and oblige,
Yours truly,
15, Euston Square, Thos. Engall.
July 19th, 1881.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
«% We cannot undertake to return rejected manuscripts.
GommimieationB, Ac, have been reoeived from Dr. Both, Dr. BnaBiR,
Pr. Hewan (London) ; Dr. Ksnnxdt (Blaokheath) ; Dr. Ba.xb8, Dr.
HuoHBB (Brighton) ; Dr. Hatwabd (Liyerpool) ; Dr. Sharp (Bngby) ;
Dr. AxLBT (Halifax) ; Dr. Pxmbebton Duplet (Philadelphia, U.S.A.);
Dr. Black (London) ; Dr. E. M. Madden Birmingham) ; Dr. Fbooiob
(Birkenhead) ; Mr. Enoall (London) ; Dz. Chaxtebtom (Ghioago) ; Dr.
Newman (Bath).
BOOKS RECEIVED.
Rheumatism : its Naturst its Pathology, and its Successful TreatmeiU.
By T. J. Maclagan, M.D. London : Pickering & Co.— TA« British Jasamal
of Homoeopathy. — T?ie Homaopatinc World, — The Chemist and Druggist
^-Burgoyne^s Monthly Journal of Pharmacy. — The Students* Journal'-
Boston University School of Medicine. Ninth Annual CommeneemenL'-
The American Journal of Homoeopathy, New York. — The Ne» York
Medical Times, New York. — United States Medical Investigator. Chiea^.
Hahnemannian Monthly. Philadelphia. — The Medical Advance. Cm-
oinnati — New England Medical Gazette. — Therapeutic Gazette. Detroit.
Bulletin de la Soc. Horn, de France. — Bibliotheque Homotopathiqut.—
Bevue Horn. Belge.^AUg. Horn. Zeitung.^-El Criteria Medieo.^Biviste
Omiopatica. — Boletino Clinico del Instituto Homceopatico de Madrid.—
La Beforma Medica. Mezioo.
Papers, DiepenBaiy Beports, and Books for Beriew to be sent to
Dr. Pope, 21, Henrietta Street, Cayendish Square, W., or to Dr. D. Droi
Bbowv, 29, Seymour Street, Portman Sqnaze, W. Adyertuements and
^uinees OommnniflatoM to bft sent to MeMBk fi. Qooud A ta,
59, Moergate Street, E.G.
¥S^^^ht^ BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 521
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW-
THE BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION AND
HOMCEOPATHY.
Airr time within the last twenty years^ and even quite
recently, w^^have been soberly told by those who ought to
know better, and who do know better, that homoeopathy is
dead. If so, the physiology of the homoeopathic corpse is,
to say the least, peculiar. Instead of following out the
maxim '' earth to earth,'' it shows ever-increasing vitality,
and has of late administered several decided '* eye-openers **
to those who chose to believe that it was defonct.
The fact is, that instead of being dead, homoeopathy at
the present time is more living and active than ever,
leavening to an extent to which no one, even of its oppo-
nents, can shut his eyes, the doctrines and practice of the
old school. The Lcmcet, as we lately pointed out, in a
remarkable editorial article, admitted the whole points at
issue, although, three weeks after, the editor found himself
obliged to cry peccavi in the most humiliating and ridiculous
manner, for the enlightened article of May Slst. And
now we find, by the report of the annual meeting of the
British Medical Association, held last month at Byde, that
the subject of homoeopathy has so come to the front, as to
be discussed in the address of Mr. Babbow, the President,
No. 9, Vol. 85. 3 X
622 BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION- ^b^.^SH!^
in Mr. Jonathan Hutchinson's ''Address in Surgery/' and
in Dr. Bbistowe*s " Address in Medicine."
Says Mr. Barrow : —
''No one can, I think, deny that the homoeopath stands
npon Tery peculiar groond. He practises a system of medicme
(although I have no belief in it) ; nevertheless it is a system^ and,
if carried on in its purity, as laid down by the founder of the
system, and as long as the homoeopath adheres strictly thereto,
I fail to see how he can be called a quack, or why he should ba
tabooed by the profession, as it were, cut off from a position
amongst medical men, forbidden to gather together with them,
and prevented from discussing publicly his system, and hearing
the contrary from those practising legitimate medicine. The
benefit would be mutual, and these discussions would be of benefit
to the public, and an additional proof to them that their weal was
uppermost in our minds."
This is something for the President of this Association,
although he adds that he considers homoBopathy a "f&xiltj
and pernicious system." If " pernicious " it is absurd to
caU it " faulty," and if only " faulty," why " pernicious?"
Mr. Jonathan Hutchinson devotes a considerable
portion of his address to the question of the propriety of
meeting homoeopaths in consultation. He considers that
the followers of the ''talented and learned enthusiast"
who founded the system are not to be called '' fools/' but
are only weak-minded, and in this complimentary estimate
lie includes not only the medical practitioners of the system,
l)ut the laity, high and low, who prefer to be treated
homoeopathically. This is too amusing to take ofifence at.
We can afford to smile at it. But the practical outcome of
Ids observations is that, although the public and many of
the profession are thus weak-minded, the strong-minded
allopath — at least, if he is a surgeon — ought to forget this,
and having an eye to the good of the public, he ought not
to decline to meet a homoeopathic practitioner if the case is
a surgical one. We are glad to hear that this view of respon*
^^jSSt^U^i!^ BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, 523
sibility to the public is coming uppermost in the minds of
such eminent surgeons as Mr. Hutchinson. It is not
so very long ago that the late Sir William Febgusson
had himself set on by a nest of hornets, and had to
rcry peccavi for having been guilty of the crime of saving
the life of a patient who was nnder the care of a
homoeopath, by passing a catheter. It is, therefore, a
•distinct gain in professional right feeling to find a man in
Mr. Hutchinson's position disdaining all sympathy for
such barbarous trades-unionism. He argues that any
practitioner who is on the Medical Register has a right to
'Call on a professional brother for help in such circum-
stances. As these views are thus grounded on the legal
professional status of the homoeopath, and on their
Tesponsibility to the public, we shall not quarrel with him
for his complimentary estimate of the mental faculties of
the homoeopathic public and practitioners. The curious
point is that Mr. Hutchinson says he has several times
met homoeopaths without knowing at the time that they
^ere homoeopaths, and that, the case being surgical, he
has ''never yet encountered the slightest difference of
opinion" — ^nor, we may add, noticed any mental weak-
ness— ^till he found out afterwards that they were heretics !
The remarks of both Mr. Bajo&ow and of Mr. Hutchinson,
however, ajSbrd no evidence, but the contrary, that they have
ever studied our system of therapeutics, or, in fact, know
anything of it practically, illustrating in this the position
of the majority of the old-school, who venture to express
iux opinion on its merits.
Far different is it, however, with the address of Dr.
Bristow^. With, perhaps, the single exception of the
^torial article in the Lancet just referred to, and, we
ought also to add, some papers by Drs« Boss and
Babagluti in the Practitioner, and a work on Therapeutics
by Dr. Booebs, Dr. Bbistowe's address is the only public
2 X— 2
624 BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. ^^.^°^f^
ntterance from the old-school which shows that its author
has taken pains to make himself acquainted with the
subject on which he is going to discourse. We have so
often had to remark that tJie opinions of a man who speaks-
or writes on a subject of which he displays the grossest-
ignorance are worth less than nothing, that it gives us the
greatest pleasure to meet with a physician with whom
we can calmly discuss points in dispute, knowing that he-
has honestly and carefully studied his subject.
Dr. Bbistowe's address is a very able one, and just such
as we should expect from so enlightened a physician. He
is not, in this address, a special pleader, but one who wishes-
to do as much justice as he can to Hahnemann and
homcBopathy, consistently with the fact of his disbelief in
the system.
This disbelief is^ however, as we shall see, entirely
theoretical, as Dr. Bbistowe never once says he has put it-
to the practical test, and, indeed, there is no evidence in
his remarks to lead us to suppose he has done so. It is a
thousand pities that our opponents will not put homoeo-
pathic treatment to the practical test of success or failure*^
The system may be objected to theoretically, but as the
proof or disproof of a theory can be only obtained by actual
experiment, so, however interesting it is to have a^
theoretical argument on the question, it never comes to a
satisfactory issue. The one disputant says, '^ I have re-
peatedly tried it and found the theory proved, and in fact
have such confidence in its truth that I base my practice
on it, and find vastly better results than I did before I
thus practised.*' His opponent can only add, ''I don't-
believe the theory, and shall not try whetiber, practically, I
am right or wrong."
It is an interesting and a very instructive fact that
several of our stauncbest adherents, both in the profession
and among the public, have been previously so opposed to
the belief of its truth, theoretically, that it was only by
the pressure of friends that they were induced to iff
it, more for the sake of getting rid of the importunity of
their friends than anything else, and have been Mtendly
convinced against their will.
But to return to Dr. Bbistowe, as we are anxious to do
him full justice, while at the same time pointing out when
he is wrong or mistaken, we think the best way is to quote
the larger portion of his address^ and make running com-^
A^^s^^HTiS^ BBITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 625
ments on it. Our comments then will be placed in brackets
to distingnish it from Dr. Bristowb's text.
In the first place, Dr. Bbistowe endeavours to do justice
io Hahneiiann as a man of learning, earnestness and
thoughtfulness. He says : —
'* Many will sympathise with him now, as many doubtless would
have sympathised with him then, in the dissatisfiEtction which,
About this period, he undoubtedly felt with the chaotic state of
therapeutical theory and practice at ^ that time prevalent, and
with the aspirations that sprung up within him to make order
out of confusion, to discover some intelligible relation between
therapeutic agents and morbid processes, to systematise the
4surative treatment of disease. Ajid many, even of those who
dissent most widely from his conclusions, will still, I think, admire
.the tenacity, the energy, and the sublime bigotry he displayed in
the development of that system of which he was at once the
-creator and apostle.''
He next says of the Organon : —
** How Hahneuanm's special views of disease and its treatment
originated, and how they underwent gradual development, until
they found exact expression in his Organon^ the bible of homceo-
jpathy, I shall not attempt to discuss. The Organon itself,
however, is a remarkable work, very interesting also, and very
entertaining ; for it not only comprises the quintessence of his
iabours, but reveals the character of the man, as in a mirror,
with all his strength and all his weakness, all his wisdom and all
his folly."
Then comes the following passage : —
*' He was a physician who had a supreme contempt for pathology,
and on the whole for etiology. He inveighs over and over again
jagainst the absurdity of those who endeavour to discover, in
morbid phenomena within the body, an explanation of the
jsymptoms which persons who are ill present. He says : ' We
may well conceive that every malady implies a change in the
interior of the organism, but this change can only be surmised
obscurely and fallaciously from the symptoms ; it can never be
recognised infallibly in its complete reality. The invisible
changes wrought by the malady within the organism, and the
changes perceptible to our senses (that is to say, the sum of the
symptoms), together form a complete image of the malady ; bat
that image is only visible in its entirety to the eye of the Creator.
It is the totality of the symptoms which alone constitutes the
jpart of it accessible to ii^^ doctor; but it is likewise in
the totality of the symptoms that we find everything that it is
needful to know in order to cure.* * To Hahnehann it is a matter
526 BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, *^bS5S^.^2Ti«l
of no moment whether ascites depends on cirrhosis of the liver,
or tubercle of the peritoneum ; whether an attack of constipatioDr
and cohc arises from lead-poisoning or from a cancerous stricture;
whether a paralytic seizure is the outcome of hysteria, or is due
to some material lesion of the brain. In each case, to him,
what is the condition of things within is an idle speculation ;
the symptoms of which the patient complains comprise all that
the medical man need know ; and to treat these according to the
true laws of homoeopathy is to cure the disease. But he goes
further; for, not satisfied with stigmatising all pathological
investigations as mere pedantry and foolishness, he actually
objects to all attempts on the part of systematic writers and
practical physicians to distinguish and classify diseases. Speaking
of pathology in the past, he says : ' It created arbitrarily the
object of cure — ^namely, the malady. Men decided authoritatively
what are the number of diseases, what their form, and what their
genera. Good God,' says he, 'the infinity of diseases which
nature excites in man, exposed as he is to so many different
influences, under conditions never to be determined beforehand,
and infinitely varied, is reduced to such an extent b;^ pathologyr
that there remains only a handful of them, fashioned according
to its whim.' Elsewhere he observes: * We may also pass
over in silence the fact that persons have tried to reduce the
number of maladies — ^those infinitely varied deviations from the
state of health — to a limited list of denominations, and to give
them definite descriptions (which vary, nevertheless, according
to different pathological views), in order to afford a ready
indication of medical treatment for each form of illness that is-
artificially defined in therapeutics.* And again he says, in
reference to the causes of disease (which he regards as
innumerable) : ' Thence come an infinite number of hetero-
geneous diseases which are so different from one another thai
(to speak strictly) every case of illness appears only once, and
(if we except the few diseases which originate in a miasm always-
of the same kind, or which arise from the same cause) eveiy
man who becomes affected suffers from a special .malady, to
which no specific name can be given, and which has never existed
in the same manner as in the present case, in the particular
individual and under existing circumstances, and will never be
reproduced in exactly the same form.' "
[Now, as to Hahnemann's " supreme contempt for patho-
logy,'' we have simply to ask Dr. Bristowk what was the
state of pathology at the date of the publication of the
Organon (1810) ? Is there a work, antecedent to that
period, on pathology, which one can even find extant at the
present day, or is there pathology to be found in any work
iSSS^8^"ri«^ BBITI8H MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 527
on '^Practiee of Medicine *' at that time such as Dr.
Bbistowe or any man of the present day would take the
trouble to study, except for the purposes of the historio-
grapher ? In the beginning of this address Dr. Bbistowb
himself says that ^* it is mainly within the present century
that anatomy, physiology and pathology have risen into the
dignity of sciences/' and can we wonder that as Hahnemanh
noticed how the current views of the pathology of disease
r^ulated entirely its treatment, and perceiving how
little was really known of pathology in his time, can we
wonder that he resolved, for the purposes of treatment,
to cast aside what was uncertain and misleading? We
venture to say that if Dr. Bristowe had lived in
Hahnehann's day, and felt as he did in regard to the
''chaotic state of therapeutical theory and practice,'^
he would have felt the same contempt for pathology,
such as it was at that time. But it is an entire mistake on
Dr. Bribtowe's part to say that to Hahnemann, it was
'' a matter of no moment whether ascites depends on
cirrhosis of the liver, or tubercle of the peritoneum ;
whether an attack of constipation and colic arises from
lead-poisoning or from a cancerous stricture ; whether a
paralytic seizure is the outcome of hysteria, or is due to
some material lesion of the brain." He would have formed
his opinion as anyone of the present day would do, as to
the nature of the disease ; and how, may we ask, can these
several causes of the same result be diagnosed but by the
symptoms? In each of the three diseases named, the
aJtemative causes named produce such different symp-
toms that, not only is it by 'means of these symptoms that
we can make the ^agnosis at all, but the man who goes
most into detail in symptoms will be the one who will
probably make the best diagnosis. The first passage from
the Organon, which Dr. Bristomtb quotes, proves the in-
correctness of Dr. Bristowe's assertion. Hahnemann
says that every malady implies a change in the interior of
the organism, but it is our ignorance, or — ^to put it for the
sake of argument — ^the ignorance in Hahnemann's time, of
what those changes, often very minute, consisted, tiiat
Hahnemann put them aside as guiding to treatment. That
he did not ignore these pathological changes, such as were
known, in the way of developing symptoms, we see by this
same passage, when he says, *^ The invisible changes
wrought by tiie malady withhi the organism, and the
628 BRITISH MBDIOAL AS800XATION. "bSSS^.^TTmSl
changes perceptible to our senses (that is to say, the sum
of the symptoms) y together fonn a complete image of the
malady ; but that image is only visible in its entirety to
the eye of the Creator."
Hahnemann is perfectly correct in adding, ** It is the
totality of the symptoms which alone constitates the part of
it accessible to the doctor/' and Dr. Bristowe's illustra-
tions are quite to the point in explaining what Hahnemann
means. Equally coiTect and scientific is it on Hahnemann's
part to add further ^* but it is likewise in the totality of
the symptoms that we find everything that is needful to
know in order to cure.'* Not, it will be observed, that
these are all that is needful to know, but all that is needful
to know in order to cure. It will also be observed that
here, it is not merely the subjective symptoms which
HAm^MANN advises to be noted, but the totality of the
symptoms, including those which can be gathered or inter-
preted from what knowledge we have of the pathology of
disease, and the changes sdso perceptible to our senses.
In other words, this passage which Dr. Bbistowe quotes
from the Organon, shows that Hahnemann's views were
these : — ascertain everything about the patient which can
be put down as an existing fact — the totality of the
symptoms ; but set aside theory, which may be, and often
is, very misleading. And in spite of the great advances in
pathology and dif^osis of disease which have been made
in the last 80 or 40 years, this is still the ground which
must be taken up by the physician as a healer. Even at
the present time, how often has theory guided the treat-
ment, and guided it utterly wrong, explaining the
waves of therapeutical belief and practice which have
flowed and ebbed, and passed away to the domain of
history. The other two quotations which Dr. Bristowb
gives are well worth study. They give Hahnemann's
views as to the essential importance of individualising
cases of disease when the question is one of treat-
ment. His objections, it is very clear firom this passage,
to the *' limited list of denominations " and " definite
descriptions " are plainly owing to the use made of such
classifications and ''definite descriptions " '' to afford a ready
indication of medical treatment for each form of illness that
is artificially defined in therapeutics," and not to the mere
description and classification of leading forms of disease for
the purpose of systematic arrangement. This insistance
ISS^^Tt^vS^ BMTIBH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 629
on his part of the neoessity for indiTidiialismg each ease of
disease with a view to treatment is one of the wisest and
most advanced doctrines that he incolcated, and at this
present day, in the addresses of the most enlightened
teachers in the old school, the same necessity for indi*
yidoalising each case^ and not treating it as a case of this
or that disease is eqnidly strongly insisted on. We belieya
we are perfectly correct in stating that no two cases of
the same disease are absolutely alike, and consequently
the scientific physician, while bearing in mind, for the
purposes of diagnosis and classification, the main features
which characterise a given class of cases, individualises
each case when he comes to prescribe.]
Dr. Bristowe goes on :
" For him, I should think, preventive medicine which deals
specially with the causes of disease, and has been successful only
in proportion to its knowledge of them, would have been a
delusion and a snare. In the second place, pathology, and more
especially morbid anatomy, had no meaning for bun. All the
laborious investigations conducted in our deadhouses, which we
fondly imagine to add to our knowledge of disease, and to which
(in association with clinical study) we attribute most of the
advances that have been made in medicine of late years — such as
the differentiation of kidney-diseases, the recognition of suprarenal
melasma, the discovery of the condition known as embohsm, the
«zact recognition of the natore of tumours, the discoveries which
have been made in regard to the diseases of the nervous system
— ^would be looked upon by him with contempt. For what, in
the third place, have such investigations and such knowledge to
do with diseases as he understood them ? His diseases, as I
have shown, were, with a few exceptions, simply groups of symp-
toms— mosaics of which the component pieces admitted of endless
rearrangement. Intermittent fever constituted one of the cases
in which he recognised the operation of a definite cause ; but,
notwithstanding this, intermittent fevers were themselves innu-
merable, and each ease that came before him was an independent
disease. I do not wish to misinterpret his views. He recognises,
I admit, the existence of morbific causes ; but he seems to liken
them to the impulse which propels a ball, and to think that with
their initial impulse aU their specific influence ceases. Ner does
he deny the existence of pathological changes in the interior of
the body ; but he says that we cannot detect them ; that, as a
matter of fact, they are correlated with the symptoms which
patients present, and together with these are common manifesta-
tions of the same disease ; and that in the symptoms alone we
580 BBITIBH HEmCAL AB80CIATI0K. ^^iS&^S^SJ'
bttve a sufficient indication of the nature of the difleaee and of
the treatment to be adopted for its cure."
[Now, '' preyentiYe medicine '* has been only developed
into its present state in the last few years, and to say of
Hahnemann, who introduced the nse of beUculonna as a
preventive of scarlet fever, that preyentive medicine " wonld
have been a delusion and a snare," is one of the most
gratuitous assumptions we have ever met with. Then as
to pathology and morbid anatomy having no meaning for
him, we have ahready seen what meaning it had, and in
the latter part of this quotation Dr. Bbistowe himself
states the case just as we have done. But the examples
which Dr. Bristowe gives here of the pathological advances
of the present day oidy show mote clearly how unfiBdrly he
is judging Hahnemann. None of these points in pathology
were known when he wrote the Organon. The stetho-
scope and the physical signs of diseases of the chest were
then unknown. Why thus condemn a learned and earnest
physician because he did not know what was then known
to no one. If this is not asking a man to make bricks
without straw what is it ? Let our opponents be simply
fair, and judge of a man's knowledge by what was known at
the time. With all that was known Hahnemann was
thoroughly acquainted, since we find him translating an
English work (CuUen's Materia Medica) into German, and
displaying profound knowledge of all writers on medicine,
from Hippocrates downwards]*
Dr. Bbistowe goes on : —
*' Of course, in all this there is much that is true, and much that
is specious. Were it not so, his theories would long ago have
been abandoned ; for it is the mixture of truth and verisimilitude
with error that gives error cnrrencj". But how much of wild
speculation, how much of absolute ignorance of the matters which
he proposes to teach, how much obstinate shutting of his senses
to the truths of nature I *'
[We are glad to hear Dr. Bbistowe say there is much
that was true in Hahnemann's views, but we fail to
see the speciousness, the error, the wild speculation, the
absolute ignorance of the matters he proposes to teach, or
any shutting of his senses to the truUis of nature. If ever
a man had his senses open to the truths of nature it waft
Hahnemann].
In the next passage, which, for want of space, we
cannot quote in full. Dr. Bbistowe again quotes from
SlSSiJr^TiS^ BBITIBH MBDIOAL ASSOCIATION. 531
Hahnemann in a passage begmning — ''All hnman mala-
dies haTe, np to the present time, been cored not by/*'
&c., &c. — from which Dr. Bkibtowe argues that Hahne-
MANN " seems to start from the fascinating belief that all
symptoms of disease, and therefore, from his point of view,
all diseases, are curable." Hahnemann never says any-
thing of the kind. In the passage Dr. Bristowe quotes
he says that " all human maladies " — ^not have been cured,
simpliciter — (how could he have said such a thing ?) but
those that have been cured have been so by certain
methods, the fallacy of which he proceeds to point out.
Dr. Bbistowe ought here to be fair in his reading of the-
passage.
Next, Dr. Bristowe says : —
'^ Stated generally, his views are as follows : the innumerable-
diseases which afflict mankind, and which arise out of natural
causes, consist, for the purposes of the physician, of groups of
symptoms ; the innumerable remedial agents which exist in
nature, locked up in the animal and vegetable kingdoms, and in
the inorganic world, are themselves the causes of a parallel series
of artificial diseases, which again, for the purpose of the
therapeutist, consist of groups of symptoms ; in order to cure
any natural disease that may come before us, it is necessary to
administer that particular remedial agent which is capable of'
producing identical symptoms with it, and of course this must
be given in a suitable dose, for, if in too minute a dose, it leaves
a residuum of the original disease uncured ; if in too large a dose,
it cures the disease, but induces after-effects of its own ; and,,
further, inasmuch as we are not yet acquainted with the specific
virtues of all remedies, and inasmuch, therefore, as for a large
number of diseases the most suitable homoeopathic remedy has
not yet been discovered, we must in such a case select a remedy
the effect of which approximates to the symptoms of the disease,
by which means we shall cure a certain area, so to speak, of the
primary disease, but we shall leave a new disease behind,,
compounded of the as yet uncured symptoms of the old disease,
and the supernumerary symptoms due to the drug itself, which
new disease must be treated de novo on homoeopathic principles.
How curious, how ingenious, how interesting the whole thing is t
How exceUent, if true ! And has it not the simplicity of tmtii in
it ? The entire range of diseases, the entire range of therapeutics,,
converted into Chinese puzzles ; the phenomena of diseases
and the effect of drugs upon them treated as algebraical
equations ! It is impossible to conceive of any physician
working daily by the bedside of patients, and in the dead-
^82 BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. *a!S&,^SLi!w£
house, and seeing diseases as they are, framing such a system,
-except as a joke. It conld only have been, as in fact it was
the serious work of a visionary who had thrown off the trammels
of fact, and allowing his imagination to run riot, mistook its
fantastic figments for a revelation from heaven.'*
[This general statemest of Hahnemann's views is in the
main correct, but Dr. Bbistowe's statement that they
amount to a Chinese pnzzle or an algebraical equation is
absurd. Dr. Bristowe may find it impossible to conceive
of a physician working at the bedside on Hahnemann's
lines, except as a joke, but hundreds of fully qualified
physicians in this country and on the continent, and
thousands in America, do so daily, and fail to see it as a
joke, but as a grand reality^ the majority of them having
formerly treated their patients on the old system, which
i;hey have abandoned in favour of the new. What gives
the homoBopathic physician such interest and enthusiasm
in his work is that the homceopathic relationship between
disease and drugs is so " curious," " ingenious/* " inte-
resting," " simple," " excellent," and withal " true." So
far from homoeopathy being the work " of a visionary who
had thrown ofif the trammels of fact," it is fact that the
-system is based on entirely, and without which facts it
would be nowhere.]
The next passage is interesting.
' ' That Hahnemann believed in himself and in the absolnte truth
-of all that he taught, is beyond dispute. He was a prophet, not
only to his followers, but in his own eyes. All other systems of
therapeutics bat his were foUy, and all who pursued them were
fools. That he had learning, and ability, and the power oi
reasonisg, is abundantly clear. He saw through the prevalent
therapeutical absurdities and impostures of the day ; he laughed
to scorn the complicated and loathsome nostrums which, even ei
that time, disgraced the pharmacopoeias ; and he exposed with
no little skill and success the emptiness and worthlessness of
most of the therapeutical systems which then and theretofore
had prevailed in the medical schools ; and then he invented and
proclaimed a system of his own at least as empty and as worth-
less as any that had gone before. In this, I suppose, there is
nothing very strange ; for it is only the broadest intellects (and
his was an essentiidly narrow one) which are capable of treating
the offspring of their own brains with the severe impartiality they
manifest in other cases."
[Dr. Bristowe, in here describing homoeopathy as being
Jt^fs^LijSS!^ BBITI8H BCEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 58S
'^ at least as empty and worthless as any that had gone
before/' is simply begging the entire question.]
Dr. Bristowe next proceeds to consider briefly ^'the^
character of the therapeutical facts and arguments which h&
alleges in support of his doctrines, and the methods of inves-
tigation which he taught and practised," and refers to the
mass of quotations from medical writers from the earliest date
till his own, which ELahnemann publishes in the introduction
to the Organon. He quotes only two — ^the cure of the
'' sweating sickness " by sudorifics, and the reduction of
fever by a hot bath. Dr. Bristowe considers the whole
series of quotations as worth little. But he will find that
EEahnemann himself says that he places little or no im-
portance on these quotations, having merely accumulated
them as an interesting illustration of the previous unwitting
use of the principle of similars, not as an argument of
importance for his case, but merely an unintentional cor-
roboration of it. Dr. Bristowe then proceeds : " In the^
second place, as regards his own homoeopathic observations ;^
these, as given in the Organon^ are not very numerous.
For the most part, he there lays down the law oracularly,
and quotes the more or less questionable and loose state-
ments of other authors, in support of his opinions.'^
[The Organon is a work on the principles of scientific
medicine, not a clinical work at all — Whence the absence of
many cases.]
*' There are two or three observations, however, apparently his
own, or at any rate confirmed by his own experience, which are
really interesting. He speaks, as I have before poiated out, of
intermittent fevers as being innumerable, and derides the blind
pathology which makes of them one disease ; and proceeds :
* Pathology feigns this in order to give pleasure to her dear
sister, Therapeutics, who, excepting antimony and sal-ammoniac ^
has, as a rule, no other remedy against intermittent fevers than.
cinchona, with which she treats them according to a fixed method,
as if they were aU identical ! It is true,' he continues, *that-
these fevers can be suppressed by enormous doses of cinchanaf
that is to say, that their periodical recurrence is overcome by it ;
but those who are affected with intermittents for which this
remedy is unsuitable are not cured by it, but remain continually
ni, and worse than they were before. And this is what the
vulgar art of medicine calls a cure I ' He regards cinchona, and.
mentions it elsewhere, as a homoeopathic remedy for ague at-
tended with certain groups of symptoms. Homoeopathic, forsooth !
when the most striking therapeutical fact concerning quinine is-
534 BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. "SS^.^STifMS!
that it lowers temperature ; while the most strikiiig dinical fea*
lure of agae is the extraordinary rise of temperature which at-
tends its paroxysmal attacks."
[The power of quinine in very large doses to lower
temperature is only one £etct; an equally important one,
and the one which constitutes quinine homoeopathic to
ague is its power to develop in the healthy body a
paroxysm exactly resembling a typical fit of ague. This
fauct has been ignorantdy denied by allopaths, but the
evidence is ample, and even Trousseau and Pidoux in
their Materia Medica admit it. We ourselves have seen
at least one unmistakable case of this. The reason of
its being denied is that the ague-like phenomena occur
-comparatively rarely, and only in those who have the
special idiosyncrasy. It is one of these very important
groups of symptoms which Dr. Dbtsdale terms " contin-
gent," and which he points out are generally of the highest
importance as curative indications.]
*' ButfEuicy ague, which (Hahnemann notwithstanding) is in all
its forms identically the same disease, being homceopaihio to
qmnine in one case, and allopathic or antipathic in another;
being in one case curable by quinine administered in infinitesimal
quantities, and in another aggravated by the same remedy in
large doses. I do not know what the present views of homoeo-
pathic practitioners may be as to the relations of quinine and
ague ; but I appeal to everyone of experience besides as to
whether agae ever succumbs to the use of infinitesimal doses of
quinine^ and whether, in the large majority of oases, it does not
yield with no ill consequences (due to the drug) to qmnme in
large quantities ? "
[Ague is, as Dr. Bbistowe says, in all its forms identi-
cally the same disease, but this does not argue that the
same remedy is the right one for all cases. HAHNSBiANN's
argument is a carrying out of his principle of individual-
isation of cases, no two cases being precisely similar.
Hence, while a case of ague which is a typical one, that is,
where all the stages are typical in duration and time of
access, is cured with quinine, and in very small doses, it is
well Imown by " everyone of experience " (Dr. Bbistowe
notwithstanding) that many forms of ague are not at all
benefitted by quinine, but rather made worse. Many cases,
utterly unamenable to quinine, are cured rapidly by arsenic,
nux vomica, ipecacuanha, cedron, natrum muriaticuin, &c.,
^hile, if Dr. Bbistowe wants allopathic authority, he will find
fS^fs^TM!' BBITISH MEDICAL ASSOOUTION. 536
it in the report of Dr. Boxtbin, surgeon-general to Napoleon's
army in Egypt. There, Boudin found that many cases
were not only not cured by quinine, but were made worse
by it, while they yielded rapidly to arsenic in a dose of t^^
•of a grain. But when quinine is the remedy very small
doses cure.]
*' Again, he speaks over and over again of itch, a disease with
winch he seems to have been flGuniliar, and which, he assumes to
be an affection pervading the whole organism, but attended, as
smali-pox is, with a rash ; and in reference to it, he insists upon
the foUy of endeavouring to cure the skin disease by local appli-
cations, a procedure which, he says, has the effect of aggravating
the constitutional disorder ; and .he teaches that the disease is
only to be cured by the internal administration of sulphur in
homoeopathic doses. Now, it is pretty certain that Hahnemtmn
did not very clearly distinguish itch from many other forms of
•cutaneous eruption ; still, many of his cases of itch were true
itch, no doubt. But what can practical men think of the* insight
into diseases, of the power of observation, of that man who
discovers that to destroy the local phenomena of itch is to
aggravate the patient's illness ; that itch itself is ever curable by
any internal remedy whatever 9 No doubt he was not aware that
itch is due to the burrowing of parasites in the skin ; but if he
had been, it would have made no difference to him ; for he
would have argued of them and of their relation to itch, as I
have ahready shown that he argues of intestinal psurasites and
the symptoms of disease which are usually attributed to their
presence."
[When Hahnemann wrote the Organon, it was not known
ihat the true itch was dependent on a parasite, as
Dr. BmsTowE admits, but one has only to read his
writings carefully — the Organon is sufficient — to see that
under the names psora or itch he includes all itching skin
^uptions, whether papular, vesicular, or pustular, and his
'views of the proper treatment of Uiese, culminating in
his doctrine of '' j^sora," are not only strictly scientific and
&r-seeing, but they are adopted by the best dermatologists
of the present day, under the name of the " herpetic *' or
'* dartreux," diathesis or " herpetism.'' It is quite gra-
tuitous to assume that if Hahnemann bad known of the
itch parasite, as distinguishing the itch proper, or scabies,
from other similar eruptions, he would have ignored the
fitct. But what he would probably have insisted on is, that
most or all cases of long standing itch which resist sulphur
ointment were dependent on a state of health which required
686 BBrnsH medical association. ^bSSS.^STmST
internal treatment by snlphnr in minnte doses. Those
who have had large experience of scabies, in workhonses
for example in Scotland, are well aware that while many^
cases may be cured in twenty-four hours by the application
of sulphur ointment, many, on the other hand, will remaiir
weeks, or even months, uncured, though rubbed daily. In
the former class there is no diethetic taint, the parasite is
killed easily, and the patient is well, while in the latter, the
parasite finds a suitable nidus in which to live, and no
amount of external application cures them. An illustration
of the same thing one sees in different CBses of ring-worm.
These obstinate chronic cases then require internal treat-
ment to modify the state of health, which permits of the
existence of the parasite. Hahnemann's advocacy of the
psora theory only shows how much his views were in
advance of his own day,]
''But, in the third place, before medicines can be employed
homoeopathically, their collective effects must of oourse be aseer-
taiued and tabulated ; and before cases of disease can be treated
homoeopathically, their symptoms must also be accurately deter-
mined and tabulated ; in order that the appropriate, or at any
rate the most appropriate, remedy may be selected for each.
We cannot, therefore, quarrel with Hahnemann for reqainng^
that drags shall be carefully tested or proved, and that cases
shall be carefolly and accurately recorded. But what does he
mean by proving of medicines, and what by taking of easee f
Most men accustomed to scientific investigations wo^d say that,
in order to detennine the precise potential characteristics of any
unknown agency, it should be interrogated, and cross-examined,,
and tested from all points of view ; that, if a drag, its chemical
properties should be determined, and its action on the living and
on the dead, in health and in disease, should be exhaastively
ascertained. That is not Hahnemann's notion at all. Drags
being, in his view, agencies which impart disease, most be
tested only on the healthy body, in order to determine, id
accordance with homoeopathic requirements, what natoral dis^
eases their effects simulate. And the method of procednre is»
that the experimenter and those who act under his direetioDSf
shall take regulated doses of the drugs they wish to ezamipe,
and then note, in each case, accurately every phenomenon which
develops itself during some period, determined more or less
arbitrarily, after the reception of the drug. The system, to the
uneducated eye, looks, perhaps, fair and reasonable. Bat ve
must admit Ihe truth of the homoeopathic view of the relatioo0
between medicines and diseases before we can admit the sgedd
value of investigations conducted only on the healthy body ; sz^»
J
toSS^fsStTS?^ BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 687
as regards the method of inyestigation which he teaches, can
anything be better calcidatad to promote self-deception ? Think
of the innumerable phenomena which a hypochondriacal old man,
a youthful enthusiast in experimental research, or a credulous.
believer, would find under such circumstances, arising from
inconceivable doses of the most inert substances — the itching at
this point, the aching at that, the variations in the pulse, the
watering of the eyes, the noises in the ears, the muscular start-
ings, the eructations, the rumblings in the bowels, and many
other matters of the same kind. What pictures of the mimicry
of disease might be thus produced and varied ad infinitum ; of
what innumerable pictures of the kind (comprising here and
there doubtless accurate and valuable observations) is the homoe-
opathic literature on the provings of drugs made up I
[This proving of drugs on the healthy, is one of the
strongest points in homoeopathy. That this is necessary,
and {^ost the only essential for a pure Materia Medica, is
admitted and preached now-a-days by most of the leading
men in the old school. Sir Thomas Watson, some fifteen
years ago, first insisted strongly on this, and since his
address the same point has been repeatedly taken np by
physicians. One of the latest utterances on this topic is
the remarkable address by Dr. Andrew Clark at the
annual meeting of the British Medical Association, at Cork,
in 1879. Dr. Clark not only insists on the necessity of
having all medicines proved on the healthy body, but gives
the absence of such provings (ignoring those of homoeopathy)
as one of the chief reasons of the backward state of old-
school therapeutics. Dr. Bristowe, then, in finding fault
with EDilHNEMann, is behind the age, and he has only again
to read the directions in the Organan for the carrying oat of
the provings, to see that EEahnemann took infinite care to
exclude all possibility of imaginative or dubious symptoms*.
In spite of all care, dubious symptoms may creep in, but
these are corrected and discovered by clinical observations*
Dr. Bristowe is wrong in saying that Hahnemann, while
insisting on the necessity of provings on the healthy,
ignores symptoms which may be obtained from the sick-
bed, and he will find the most careful directions, in the
Organan, for the observation and noting of such pathoge-
netic symptoms as may crop up in a case of disease ; but
these require much more careful observation and discrimi*
nation than those obtained on the healthy body. We must
draw special attention, however, to a very important
sentence in this passage of Dr. Bristowb's address. He
No. 9, YoL 25. 2 N
588 BRITISH MEDICAL A6800UTI0N. ^^!S^ a^ i.
flays ''But we must admit the tmih of the homisopathie
view of the relations hetween medieines and diseaaes,
before we can admit the special yalne of investigations
condncted only on the healthy body/' Precisely so. Unless
we do so, of what nse is it to know that anenic will produce
conjunctivitis, nasal catarrh, sickness and vomiting,
inflammation of the stomach, enteritis, and diarrhoda,
shortness of breath, weak action of the heart, and general
debility? or that bichloride of mercury will produce
dysentery, or cantharii inflammation of the kidneys and
bladder, or belladonna conjunctivitis, sore throat and an
erythematous eruption, and so on of a host of medicines f
None at all, unless we admit the homoeopathic relation of
drugs to disease. Hence it is that in the old school while
the cry is for proving of drugs on the healthy body aa
absolutely necessary, we find that such investigations are
gone about with so little zeal and come to so little. And
flo it will be till the law of similars is recognised, and tken^
all those otherwise useless symptoms are found to be of the
utmost therapeutical importance. This point has always
fleemed to us to be one of the strongest arguments in favour
of homoeopathy versus allopathy.]
" The recording of cases, according to Hahnemann's directionB,
is of a piece with the proving of medicines. He tells you to
listen csurefoUy to the account the patient gives of himself, to
hear all that the friends and others about tiie patient say con-
cerning him, and to note down everything accuratelv, and in
tabular form. You are not to interrupt. And then, when the
recitals have been completed, you are permitted to ask certain
questions, the character of which he carefully specifies. Bat you
are never to suggest anything to the patient ; and you are never,
so far as I can make out, to cross-examine him. Imagine the
picture of her condition that a Mrs. Nickleby would give under
such conditions. Imagine the innumerable histories of diseases
you would get, in which everything accessory and unimportant
would be recorded, and everything really ^tinotive and im-
portant for diagnosis and treatment, as we understand them,
omitted. I am not prepared to say the method is a wrong one
from the homoeopathic point of view, in which diseases as objects
of medical treatment are regarded only as an assemblage of
symptoms, and in which the interconnection of symptoms is
comparatively unimportant. But what a caricature of scientific
case-taking it reveals to us 1 What an unpractical condition of
mind it manifests in him who elaborated it I What light it
throws on his curious incapacity for exact scientific observation !
^S^SS^Til^ BBITISH MEDICAL A8B0CIATI0N. 589
How like his method is to that of an indostrioiiB newly appointed
elinioal derk ! How ntterly opposed to the procedure of the
experienced scientifie physician 1 *'
[This is too mach. Certainly, listen to all the patient
flays, for by so doing we often get Talnable subjective
symptomSy which the allopath in his rough-and-ready
routine would pass oyer as useless. Certainly, also, never
suggest anything to the patient, for we all know how
certain patients will answer yes or no, according to leading
questions. But cross-examine as much as you want, in
order to elicit what is really meant or felt by the patient.
This, with the objective symptoms noticed by the
physician, including the physical signs, give him the
totality of the symptoms, or, in other words, the picture of
the case as, in Dr. Bbisxowe's words, an object of medical
treatment. We maintain that such case-taking is the
most scientific form of it, and as far removed from
•caricature as light from darkness.]
"Perhaps the most astonishing feature of homoBopathy, as
Hahnemann bequeathed it to 'us, is his hypothesis of infinitesi-
mal doses. He discovered, from the results of his experiments
and practice, that when once the true homoeopathic remedy for
any disease, or rather collection of symptoms, had been ascer-
tained, it was needful, in order at the same time to secure the
full effect of the drug, and to obviate any ill effects it might have
of its own, to reduce the dose of it to an inconceivable minuteness.
The millionth, the billionth, the triUionth of a grain were gigantic
quantities compared with some of those which finally he found it
best to administer. It has been calculated that a drop from the
lake of Geneva, through the waters of which a single grain of
medicine had been diffused, would contain one of his ordinary
doses ; and that a drop from a mass of water similarly treated
large enough to float the whole solar S3r8tem, would contain as
large a dose as is furnished by some of his exixeme attenuations I
When we laugh at these infinitesimal doses, the retort is often
made that we ourselves use small doses ; and calculations are
flung at us, showing how excessively minute must be the amount
of any potent drug administered by the stomach which reaches
the organ wherein it induces specific effects, and how absolutely
inappreciable must be the bulk of odorous particles, which not
affect the sense of smell, but even provoke eoryza, sickness and
ilEuntness. Wherein, then, is the absurdity of the Hahnemannio
dosage ? But this is not a retort that Hahnemann would have
made ; and, indeed, it is one that could only rise to the lips of a
degenerate follower of his. It is not the amount of any drug
which reaches any one part of the organism which is in question,
2 m— S
540 BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 's^.^^Tun!
but the amonnt of it which has to be administered for a dose.
And it eannot be denied that the smallest doses employed by ns,
even such as Dr. Binger recommends, are gross indeed compared
with those of Hahnemann. Where we give a drop or the
hundredth part of a grain, he woold haye given the millionth or
the billionth part of that quantity at the very most, and probably
millions of billions less than tiiat. Moreover, the principles
underlying the two cases are wholly dissimilar.
The belief in the efficacy of infinitesimal doses involved no
violation of his theory. It was, indeed, I think, the natural out-
come of it. The mystical powers, which for him resided in
drags, bore no quantitative relation to the ponderable elements
with which they were associated. They were contained in them
much as the genie in the fisherman's story in the Arabian NighU
was contained in the copper pot, which was fished up from the
bottom of the sea. It was easy then, if not inevitable, for him
to imagine that the power of drugs became more and more
developed, in proportion as the grosser matters which environed
them were removed. It is easy too, from another point of view,
for a vaguely mathematical mind like his (which had already dealt
with diseases as if they were algebraical equations) to conceive
that just as mathematics becomes a more and more potent
instrument, according as the encumbrances of arithmetical and
ordinary algebraical processes are thrown aside, and one comes
to deal, as in the differential calculus, with the mere ratios which
survive in quantities which have been reduced to zero, so medi-
eine would become a more and more potent art, according as the
coarser factors of drugs and of diseases are elixninated from con-
sideration, and we have only to do with the relations or ratios (if
I may so express it) between drugs attenuated to nothing, and
diseases reduced to mere groups of intangible subjective phe-
nomena ! One may, I think, follow Hahnemann's lines of
thought ; one may trace, I think, without much difficulty, the
steps by which his system acquired its full development, and
culminated at length in the doctrine of infinitesimal doses. The
author of homceopathy himself carried homcBopathy to its logical
consequences : and was there ever a more amazing reductio ad
abturdumf "
[The infinitesimal dose is, no doubt, ''the most
astonishing feature of homoeopathy." It is, however, well
for Dr. Bbistowe to know that Hahnemann himself
began with fairly material doses, and only diminished
them till they became infinitesimal because, from ex-
perience, he found that such small quantities would cure
better than larger ones, and ran no risk of aggravating
the symptoms. In his later years he advocated a much
BS^StTSS?" BBITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 541
higher dilation as the best than he did when in the
zenith of his career, and in this extremely infinitesimal
dosage, as a nniform dose, the majority of his followers do
not tread in his footsteps. He thus stated that the 80th
dilution was always the best to give. Now, while a certain
number of homoeopaths do use this dose, and even higher
ones, uniformly, &e majority, as we haye said, adhere
more to his medium doses. Thus we find that the
millionth of a grain (the 8rd centesimal dilution) is con-
stantly prescribed ; so, also, is the billionth (the 6th), or
the trillionth. But while Dr. Ringer's doses (as published
£kt least in his book) are gross compared with these others,
Dr. Bbistowe is quite wrong in saying that the '^ principles
underlying the two cases are whoUy dissimilar." The
majority of homoeopaths make use of the whole scale of
dilutions, from the pure tincture up to the 80th dilution.
The principle of the smaU dose, be it a drop of the tincture
or a hundredth part of a grain, or the 80th dilution, is
simply a corollary from the principle of the selection of the
drug. If a drug is chosen at all, which can produce in a
i^rtain dose an exact simile of a case of disease, the dose
of the medicine must be smaller than will produce
pathogenetic symptoms, or in other words, aggravate the
complaint intended to be cured. How small the dose
should be is purely a matter of individual experience ;
hence we find some homoeopaths habitually using tangible
doses, as BiNaEB does ; others habitually using the highest
dilutions, while the majority make use of the whole scale
of dilutions, from the lowest to the highest. The principle
is thus precisely the same, the same drug being selected by
all parties. And Dr. Bbistowe will please observe that
Dr. BiNOEB never recommends a drop or a hundredth part
of a grain of any drug which has not a homoeopathic
relation to the disease. The Lake of Geneva calculation is
absurd. The 80th dilution can be made in any laboratory
with thirty half-ounce phials and fifteen ounces of liquid.
The efScacy of the infinitesimal dose can never be argued,
but can only be tested in disease, each one for himself,
and it only requires to be properly tested to produce con-
viction in its efBcacy. The infinitesimal dose can never be
given up ; the whole range of dosage may be employed,
but we have no hesitation in saying that numbers of cases
which are untouched by crude doses are cured in a
marvellous manner by infinitesimals.]
542 BBITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. '^SSr,^?;^^!!
Dr. Bbistowe next makes some very fair remarks on the
right of modem homoeopaths to think for themselves, to
develope homoeopathy, and not to be boxmd slaTishly by
the ipse dixit of the master, and in this we see Dr.
Bribtowe's fairness and common sense, so different from
many of our opponents who wonld try to pnt ns in a comer,
by saying that anyone who ventured to deviate from
Hahnemann's direct words, was not a homoeopath at alL
If Hahnemann was inspired, then this latter view would be
correct, but as he was not so, it remains for everyone to
develope the great principle as fully as he can, and to think
for himself. It would indeed be a marvel if one man
should so perfect a new system of medicine as to admit of
no subsequent development, but it is equally a marvel
to consider to what an astonishing degree of perfection
Hahnemann brought his system, and how little subsequent
development or dissension from his very words has been
found possible. Such a wonderful fact is seldom met with
in uninspired writings. Dr. Bristowe shortly notices the
recent correspondence in the Lancet, in which the anti-
pathic action of homoeopathic medicines is advocated. In
concluding this part of his address. Dr. Bristowe conceives
that homoeopaths deceive themselves as to their good results.
Such an assertion is easy to make, but is of no value
from the lips of one who has not practically tested homoeo-
pathic treatment. It is conceivable that one man or a
dozen might so deceive themselves, but when thousands
testify to the same facts, the same results, and use the same
medicines for the same indications, all over the world, the
theory of self-deception falls to the ground.
Dr. Bristowe devotes the conclusion of his address to the
question of ''homoeopathists as men, and as members of oar
common profession." This passage is so interesting that we
quote it entire, as it is seldom we find ourselves spoken of
so fairly and courteously as members of one common pro-
fession with the old school. All the more important are
these remarks, as coming from an address delivered at the
opening of the section of medicine at the annual meeting
of the British Medical Association, an association which
has done more than any trades-union could have done to
snub and '* Boycott " homoeopathic practitioners.
*< That a very strong feeling of hostility should have ansen
early between orthodox practitioners and homoeopathiBts, is not
to be wondered at, when we consider, on the one hand, the
iS^jSSt^Tfm!^ BBITISH MEDICAL ASBOCIATION. 648
arrogance and intdleranee whieh Hahnemann displayed, at anj
rate in his writings, and on the other hand the contempt which
experienced physicians felt and freely expressed for him and his
whimsical doctrines. Nor is it to be wondered at, that this
variance should still be maintained ; for homoBopathy is still a
protest against the best traditions of orthodox clinical medicine ;
and there is a nafcoral tendency among us still to look npon
homoeopathic practitioners as knaves or fools. But sorely this
view is a wholly untenable one.
That all homcsopathists are honest, is more than I would
venture to*assert ; but that in large proportion they are honest,
is entirely beyond dispute. It is quite impossible that a large
sect should have arisen, homoeopathic schools and hospitals have
been established, periodicals devoted to homoeopathic medicine
be maintained, and a whole literature in relation to it have been
created, if it were all merely to support a conscious imposture.
No, gentlemen ; the whole history of. the movement and its
present position are amply sufficient to prove that those, at any
rate, who take the intellectual lead in it are men who believe in
the doctrines they profess, and in their mission ; and who practise
their profession with as much honesty of purpose, and with as
much confidence in their power to benefit their patients, as we
do. That all homoeopathic practitioners are men of ability and
education, it would be absurd to maintain ; but it is absolutely
certain that many men of ability and learning are contained
within their ranks. If you care to dive into homoeopathie
literature, you will find in it (however much you may differ from
the views therein inculcated) plenty of literary ability ; and I
have perused many papers by homoeopaths on philosophical and
other subjects unconnected with homoeopathy, which prove their
authors to be men of thought and culture, and from which I have
derived pleasure and profit. Again, I will not pretend that even
a considerable proportion of homoeopaths are deeply versed in
the medical sciences ; yet they have all been educated in orthodox
schools of medicine, and have passed the examinations of
recognised licensing boards ; so that it must be allowed that they
have acquired sufficient knowledge to qualify themselves for
practice. And some among them possess high medical
attainments.
But it may be replied, if these men are honest and educated,
and at the same time duly qualified practitioners in medicine,
how can they believe, and how can they practise such a palpable
imposture as homoeopathy ? Well, gentlemen, it is very difficult
to account for the beliefs and vagaries of the human intellect.
It is only occasionally that our convictions are the result of
oonscions reasoning. For the most part they arise in the mind,
and take posiession of it, we know not how or why ; and our
544 BRITISH MEDICAI. ASSOCIATION. ^nlS^^ilSr^f^
T6Moiiiiig8 with regard to them (i£ we leaflcm at all) are merely
special pleadings prompted by the very convietions they seem to
US to detemuDe — in ottier words, they are not the fomidations
of our beliefis at all, bat exhalations from them. It is not
surprising, therefore, that, even on matters of sapreme import-
ance, irreconcilable differences of opinion prevail, aye, amongst
men of high integrity and cnltiTated intellect. And if we desire
to live broad and nnselfish Htos, we mast be slow to condemn
all those who entertain convictions which to as seem foolish or
mischievons and logically ontenable, or to refuse to co-operate
with them.
There are few, even of the best among as, who have
not weak points in inteUeet or character. And it woald be
deplorable, indeed, if, for example, those of as who look on
spiritoalism as one of the grossest follies of the times in
which we live, were to scont the distingaished chemists and
great writers vdio devoatly believe in it, or were to
refuse to do homage to the conspicaoas abilities and high
character of a great judge, because, throwing off the jadi<^
impartiality which befits a judge, and acting under the iiiflaence
of prejudice, emotion, and ignorance, he has made himself the
leader of ail the hysterical sentimentalism of the day in a crusade
against experimental physiology in this land of Harvey and of
Hunter ! The remarks just made apply especially to beliefii in
relation to those matters which are incapable of exact scientific
proof, and in which the feelings are largely involved — ^pre-
eminently, therefore, to religion, to politics, and to medicine.
I ask you, gentlemen, to forbear with me, if I push my
arguments to their logical conclusion, and venture now to express
an opinion which is opposed to the opinion which many, perhaps
most, of you entertain. I do not ask you to agree with it ; stiE
less do I ask you to adopt it. But I ask you to consider it; and
I am content to believe that, if it be just, it wiU ultimalely
prevail It is that, where homceopathists are honest, and well-
informed, and legally qualified practitioners of medicine^ they
should be dealt with as if they were honest and weU-iotbrmed
.and qualified. I shall not discuss the question whether we can,
with propriety or with benefit to our patients, meet honoeopatiis
in consultation. I could, however, I think, addose strong
reasons in favour of the morality of acting thus, ard for the
belief that good to the patient would generally ensue ander such
circumstances. I shall not consider at length whether the dignity
of the profession would be compromised by habitual dealing with
homoeopathists. But I may observe that it is more conducive to
the maintenance of true dignity to treat with respect and con-
sideration, and as if they were honest, those whose d|»nions differ
firom ours, than to make broad our phylacteries asd enlarge the
2SSS^^^n?M^ BRITISH BffEDIOAL ASSOCIATION. 645
borders of our ganxLente, and ^rrap onrselveB up, m regard to
them, in Pharisaic pride. I appeal, gentlemen, in support of my
•contention to other considerations. It has been held, that to
break down the barriers that at present separate us from
homoeopathists wonld be to allow the poison of quackery to leaven
the mass of orthodox medicine. But who that has any trust in
his profession, any scientific instinct, any faith in the ultimate
triumph of truth, can entertain any such fear? All the best
physicians of old times, all the greatest names in medicine of the
present day, are with us, all science is on our side ; and we know
that as a body we are honest seekers after truth. What have we
to fear from homoBopathy? Bigots are made martyrs by per-
secution; &lse sects acqnire form and momentum and importance
mainly through the opposition they provoke. When persecution
ceases, wonld-be martyrs sink into insignificance; in the absence
of the stimulus of active opposition, sects tend to undergo
disintegration and to disappear. The rise and spread of homoe-
•opathy have been largdy due to the strong antagonism it
has evoked from the schools of orthodox medicine, and
to the isolation which has thus been imposed on its disciples.
If £Edse, as we believe it to bo, its doom will be sealed, when
active antagonism and enforced isolation no longer raise it into
fictitious importance. At any rate, breadth of view, and
liberality of conduct, are the fittmg characteristics of men of
science."
[Dr. Bkistowb's answer to the question—" If these men
are honest, and educated, and at the same time duly
qualified practitioners in medicine, how can they believe
and how can they practise such a palpable imposture as
homoeopathy?" — ^is the only one which can be given by a
physician who differs from us theoretically and has never
tried the system practically, and we can pardon him freely.
His remarks require no comment.
To one of the concluding sentences — ^'If false, as
vee believe it (homoeopathy) to be, its doom is sealed "
— ^we venture to add, **and if true, it will ultimately
triumph and become the dominant practice." This
latter we as fully believe as that we are in existence,
and the happy time will be vastly hastened by the
<lelivery of such addresses as Dr. Bbi8T0V^*s, and such
editorial articles as that of the Lwncet of May 2Ist.
The length of this article wiU, we hope, be pardoned,
-on account of the desire we felt to do full justice
4o Dr. Bristowb by quoting largely verbatim from his
address, and by meeting his objections in such a calm and
646 BBin8H XEDIGAL AflSOOIATION. '^Sl
friendly way as one foemm ahonld do to another " worthy
of hifl steel/' and who ahows that he has honestly
endeayomed to make himself master of the snbject he
midertakes to diseuss. The sadden change from a seriona
discQBsion to a joke may perhaps be not amiss, and so we
3 note the speech of Dr. Lono Fox of Clifton, who seconded
he asnal formal vote of thanks to Db. Bbistowb for his
address. We qnote from the report in the British Medical
Journal for Angost IStlu
** Dr. Long Fox (Clifton), in seconding the motion, said he
thonght Dr. Bristowe had prored that homoBopaihy was not a
system of medicine in the sense in which educated men mtder-
stood the term. With regard to the question of infbitesimal
doses, many of them mi^t remember the calculation attributed
to the late Sir James Simpson, that the most powerfol homcBo-
pathic remedy was the solution of a grain df medicine in an
ocean of fluid that would extend from the earth to the nearest
fixed star. (Laughter.) If homceopathy was not a system of
medicine, he thought the course with regard to it was extremdy
clear. (Hear, hear.) If a homoeopat^c practitioner^ allying
that the same remedies were used, the difference being only in
name, asked an honourable member of a most honourable pro-
fession to associate with him in the treatment of a case, it
appeared to him to be like asking the Archbishop of Canteibuiy
to associate with the high priest of the lowest fetish in Central
Africa. (Laughter.) Why were the adherents — ^he would not
say the victimB — of homoeopathy, to be found among men eminimt
in piety, sanctity, and benevolence ? He belicTed it was really
because they thought that God acted habitually miraculously.
But as a reverend profession (as Bishop McDougal had called
them), they ought to refdse to countenance so unphiloso^ducal a
view of the great First Cause. (Hear, hear.) It was surely a
much grander view of the Almighty to believe that he alwa^
acted by the grand laws that He had Himself laid down. He
hoped tiiat Dr. Bristowe would not suppose that he had disagreed
with anything he had said. He ventured only to differ in regard
to the remarks in the latter portion of the Address.'*
These observations of Dr. Long Fox remind us of the
dry reply of an American colleague to a question from
as, how Dr. So-and-So could have made such and such
extraordinary remarks. " The trouble is, Sir," said he,
** there is no law in the United States which prevents s
man making an ass of himself." — ^And we must presume
that the powers of the British Medical Association ars
equally defective.
ISlSS^SpLi!^!^ PBINCIPLBS OF HOHOBOPATHT. 64T
THOUGHTS ON TH3E SCIENTIFIC APPLICATION^
OF THE PEINCIPLES OF HOMCEOPATHY
IN PRACTICE.*
By Thomas Hatle, M.D. Edin.
The science of any branch of knowledge is the ascertain-
ment and definition of its facts and of their relations both
in synchronons and snccessiye order, and in all their mutual
interdependencies. The steps to be taken in the attainment
of this knowledge are the exact appreciation of the facts,
then their classification, induction, ratiocination, deduction
and verification. Every step in the order of succession
being known, results can be predicted, and their accom-
plishment appealed to as a verification of the accuracy of
the process.
These remarks commence my paper as a chart for my
guidance and as a bright contrast to my own performance
and the glorious uncertainties of medicine. High as the
heavens above our heads is the " lucidus ordo " of science,
as compared with the mass of assumptions and speculations
through which it will be my perplexing task to clear my
way. The nature of the case must be my apology for failure,
though I do not pretend to more than an attempt to indi-
cate what must be done in order to succeed. The study of
facts should be a worship, and reverence for them is a
reverence for their author ; for they are his words, that is,
the expression of his mind. The history of medicine does-
not present us with such a reverence for facts as the occa-
sion demanded, especially as on their proper application the
well-being of humanity, often the very existence of indi-
viduals, depended. Instead of the '' lucidua ordo " of
science, rash speculations and reckless experiments almost
decimated society. Medicine, instead of being the friend
of man, might well be deemed his worst foe. Secundum
artem became as nearly synonymous in meaning with
'' secundum Martem," as it is symphonous with it in sound,
quite as much so as the fiercest worshipper of Bellona could
have wiAed. There is little doubt that the persistent and
reckless employment of noxious agents in the treatment of
disease caused, in the long run, more deaths than the most
protracted and bloody wars. A constantly acting influence
is more effective than a cataclysm. Good and thoughtful
^ Beprixited from the Tzwitaetioiii of the InteznaiioiuJ HonuBopathio--
ConTention, July, 1881.
^48 PBINCIPLES OF HOMCBOPATHY. 'mSL
I.
men shrank from the responsibility of snch a csUing, and
in sorrow, sometimes in indignation^ stood by and looked
on at this abomination of desokition. Hahnemann describes
his mood as follows : " After I haddiseoYered the weakness
and errors of my teachers and books I sank into a state of
iM>rrowf ol indignation, which had nearly altogetijer disgnsted
me with the study of medicine. I was on the point of
conclnding that the whole art was vain and incapable of
improvement. I gave myself up to solitary reflection, and
resolved not to terminate my train of thought until I had
arrived at a definite conclusion on the subject.* This is
the frame of mind of which it may be asserted as an ever-
lasting truth that those who seek shall find, and that unto
those who knock it shall be opened.
The first event or coincidence that sets the mind on the
right track may appear to be an accident, but it is an acci-
dent which is available only to him whose mind is on ike
watch and whose whole sord is devoted to the consideration
of the subject. The fall of the apple came virithin the
observation of a man whose whole soul was dcToted to the
study of the laws of nature ; it was something to him, it
was nothing to all men beside. That it was a nniformitj
was enough for them ; why it was a uniformity they did udk
-care to inquire.
When Hahnemann found that the cinchona harkpro-
•duced a kind of intermittent fever, which kind it also cured,
he found a fact connected with another fact, and he was in
search for such connections. To most men this would have
heen a coincidence; but a coincidence that always recnis
under the same circumstances is a law ; and Halinemann
at once perceived this. What was the extent of this law ?
Was it confined to this single instance, or did it ran
through all the instances of remedial agency? Or, as
Newton might have thought, is this law confined to the faO
of bodies to the earth, or does it pervade every instance of
motion, controlling it or keeping it up ? Hahnemann's
great learning enabled him to go through the record of
cures with one medicine, and to compare these with what
was ascertainable of their action on the healthy body. He
found in his researches numerous instances in which the
^sease-producing and curative action of medicines corres-
^ JE9eulapiu8 in the Balance, Leipsic, 1806. Letter Writingi 4
Hahnemann, p. 470, translated by Badgeon.
iRSS^rs^riTSK*' PKINOIPLEB OF HOMCEOPATHT. 649^
pond remarkably; the one set of observations being*
reeorded by one set of observers, the other by another set,
eaeh being ignorant, or, at least, not necessarily cognizant,
of each other's observations, thus being undesigned coinci-
dences. In one instance, however, De Haen observed both,
and put them together, with great surprise, having nnwit--
tingly stumbled on a law of nature without knowing it.
Hahnemann quotes from his Ratio medendi, tom. iv., s.
228, the following passage : ** Dulcamarsd stipites majori
dosi convulsiones et deliria excitant, moderata vero spasmos
convulsionesque solvunt." Hahnemann observes, '* Wie
nahe war De Haen an Erkennung des naturgemdssesten
HeUgesetzes I " Very near indeed ! So near that he had
observed the difference between the action of the larger
and the smaller dose.
The number of medicines cited is about fifty; the
number of coincidences, perhaps, two hundred. Some of
these coincidences are of the rough and ready class, and do
not correspond with the requirements of science. For
instance, the cure of the sweating sickness by sudorifics,
and of inflammatory fever by smidl doses of a strong wine,
and also of inflammation of the brain by the same agent,
present no data for the scientific homoBopath to act on.
There is a very striking similarity between the majority of
the cases cited, but exact knowledge was not attainable in
the days of our ancestors, and, in &ct, was not sought for.
It is well for humanity that the after-researches of
Hahnemann and his disciples have immensely multiplied
and precisionised the data, or the homcdopathic law would
have stood upon a very insecure foundation. As it is, how-
ever, these researches, and those which have subsequently
been carried on by experiments on the healthy body, obser-
vations in cases of poisoning, and cures wrought in con-
formity with the homoeopathic law, the last almost countless,
have established Hahnemann's discovery beyond question.
Eighty-four years have passed, and each successive year
has but added to the extent of the evidence and the number
of converts. The benefits conferred on suffering humanity
have been incalculable. Diseases previously considered
incurable have been rendered amenable to treatment ; the
percentage of fatal cases has been reduced, so much so as
to render it safe, and even remunerative, to reduce the rate
of premium on policies for persons treated homceo-
pathically ; a venture which has been proved remunerative^
560 PRINCIPLES OF HOMOBOPATHT. n..^^ o^ i.
in New York [under State inspection] by an experience of
more than a decade of years. This does not consiitiite
more than a small portion of the benefits which have beoi
realised by the system of Hahnemann, applied, as it was,
in all sorts of ways, none of them scientific. They had the
form of science, bnt not the power of it.
Thinking that it was impossible to get at the nature of
disease, H^nemann was driven to adhere to the symptoms.
He was in the position of the savage, of Dngald Stewart,
I think, who, harassed by a bnrning fever and raging
thirst, comes to a spring of cold water to qaench his ilmvt,
and finding that the cold draught not only removed that,
bnt with it all the other symptoms, carefiiUy noted all the
circumstances of time and place and whatever other con*
ditions might apply to the case ; the time of day ; whethtf
the sun was shuung or not ; his relation to it ; whether it
was shining on his back or his side ; whether it was doudy,
calm, or windy ; the direction of the wind if there was one;
the position of his body, on his hands and knees or others
wise ; the taste of the spring, saline, acid, or effervescent.
All this and much more lus careful mind would note, not
knowing what was essential or unimportant, so ignorant
was he of the world in which fate had placed him. And so
for some time his servile imitators blindly followed hinu
At length it was discovered that the sun might shine or
not, the body be in any position, the wind blow as it listed,
without affecting the results. It was the spring that did
it all. But the human mind was not so easily satisfied.
What part of the spring was efiBcient ? There were ten or
twelve ingredients. Was it the potass, the soda, or the
lime ? At last by investigation, chemical or otherwise, the
active ingredient was discovered, and all superfluous was
eliminated. This is the course of science ; a very slow but
a very sure one. Hahnemann had found that swiUia
simiUJbus curantWy but what was the simiUa t Pathological
science was not &r enough advanced in his time to be con*
fided in, and he was too sagacious a man to trust in
hypotheses he could not verify. He therefore determined
to take the totality of the symptoms as his guide. He wss
in the position of the savage, and he acted as sagaciously,
proceeding on the facts of the case. There was, however,
a difference in the proceeding. The savage did not know
that there was no connection between all the parts. He
proceeded as if there was. Hahnemann knew that there
BSS^^TirStt!*' PBINOIPLBS OF HOMOfiOPATHT. 551
-was, and perhaps he was jnsfcified in thinking so, but he
was not in a position to trace it. In the one case the
fortnitons had to be discovered and eliminated ; in the other
the great majority of symptoms had to be retained in order
to be investigated and explained.
Hahnemaxm was misled in his view of the case and by
his distmst of speculation. He treated the affair as one of
natural history, whereas it was one of ratiocination and
deduction. He thought that a medicine which produced
A symptom in any one case might produce it in every other,
onmindfol of the various and altogether different kinds of
disturbance that one and the same medicine might set up
in the body and the variety of interdependence which might
prevail among the symptoms, that the symptom which was
set up in one kind of disturbance might be out of place in
another. Thus, he arranged all the symptoms belonging
to every kind of disturbance together, and confoundiug
things different, made a scheme of them, putting all the
Bymptoms which belonged to one region together, and thus
A puzsle-box of dissimilars out of which to construct a
whole with no chart to guide.
It really makes me ashamed to criticise one to whom we
•owe so much, and we should consider the difficulties under
which he laboured, and put down his errors to an attempt
to steer clear of the hypotheses and rubbish of his time.
His divine discovery came on the human mind as a thunder-
bolt, and its reception corresponded to the medium on
which it fell. It fell on a world, the recklessness and folly
of which was well expressed in the waggish distich —
** I bleeda them, I puxges them, I sweatB *em,
And if they diea— L Lettsom.*'
A description this of profound stupidity and of the reckless-
ness for human life by which it was accompanied, couched
in appropriate terms. No wonder that the Sangrados of
their day rejected the light they could not comprehend
with scorn and ridicule. This was unavoidable. The
large doses of drugs which it was the fashion to give, and
in which alone they were considered efficient, were incon-
sistent with the practice of homodopathy. The infinitesimal
doses or exhibitions of nothing were considered inventions
of Hahnemann to conceal the failure of his laws, — at least,
to render that failure less conspicuous, which the doses in
common use would no doubt have done in a remarkable
way ; and thus the action of the small doses, a discovery as
652 PBINCIPLES OF HOM<EOPATHT. ^bS^.^TSl
brilliant as any in the annals of medicine, and which
law was a step to, was made nse of by the profession, not
only to throw ridicule on the whole thing, bnt even to cast
suspicion on the good faith of the great man whose faith
in the immutability of nature had guided him to his dis-
covery. The reception of homoaopathy among its adherents
was various. The great majority materialised its teachings.
They could not reject the assertion of Hahnemann that his
doses acted, but their habits and instincts led them to
compromise. They preferred the lower attenuations, and
often gave the crude material. They came as near as they
could to the absurdities of polypharmacy by giving alterna-
tions of two or more drugs, and I have even heard of twa
or three drugs being mixed and given at the same time, in
direct contradiction to the precepts of Hahnemann and of
common sense* until at last a homcBopathic and allopathic
prescription could not be distinguished, given, as they weie,
in the same dose.
There is nothing new in all this* Men have aliraTS^
materialised truth. When a new spiritual religion came
into the world men christened the statues of the heathen
gods and gave them the names of saints. They substituted
the Christian festivals for the Pagan, retaining even the
time. The great festival of the year when the days begin
to lengthen was honoured by being converted into the
commemoration of the nativity of its founder, ail whose
precepts they took pride in disregarding. His priests
prayed to the god of battles for success to the armies of
their nation. No priests were appointed by him. His^
God was not the god of battles, but the Universal Father
and God of Love. Oaths bristled up on every side thoogh
he had expressly forbidden them. lUches denounced by
Him in the strongest terms became the special objects of
their worship. Thus, Paganism was retained under ihe
name of Christianity, and man's lusts gratified under the
name which renounced them. Thus, too^ was the sem-
blance of homoeopathy retained, though the substance was
allopathy. In both cases, however, was there some truth
received, and that little leavened the whole lump, and the
world was the better for it. Another branch of homcBO-
pathists, however, out-Hahnemanned Hahnemann himself.
If he gave thirtieths they gave millionths. If, lihe the
savage at the spring, he observed positions, aspects, and
the weather, they attended to the most minute particnltf^
i
lESSSfs^rr^'' PBINCIPLE8 OF HOMEOPATHY. 653
and circamstances ; in fact, they were and are the Boman-
ticists of homoeopathy, and have outliyed their time. That
which Hahnemann did from necessity they do from choice.
The resources of pathology were not open to him, and he
was therefore compelled to find his similar in a very round-
about way. Symptom-covering was his only resource.
Eveiy symptom which the disease produced must be found
in the medicine. Unimportant symptoms were confounded
with essential, subjective symptoms, in which hardly two
people would be found to agree, took their place with
objective, which spoke for themselves. In this search after
nonentities the weary and perplexed searcher after truth
might well exclaim, as in the i^into di Tasso —
** Quante vedove notte,
Quanti di solitari,
Ho oonsomato indamo/'
did he not every now and then chance upon some similar
which led him to a startling cure. Yes, in spite of the
absurdities of the letter, homoeopathy has achieved its
splendid triumphs. Six thousand physicians in America,
with a clientele that makes its influence felt on the legisla-
ture, and insurances effected at a considerable reduction of
premium to the profit of the office. It has been demon-
strated that homoeopathy saves one out of every two lives
that allopathy loses.* If such be its achievements, en-
cumbered as it is with so much rubbish, what may we not
expect when science has cleared away the impediments and
has revealed the essentials in their unadulterated beauty !
when we shall have ascertained the nature, extent, and
limits of the law, and the essence and relative importance
of the symptoms. The recent discovery of the telephone
has rendered it highly probable that '' nervous communi-
cation is effected by means of nervous cords which conduct
what may be called a carrier fluid endued with a quality oif
so plastic a nature as that every mode of motion by which
one of the extremities may be affected is fedthfully repre-
* In fact, the Report of the HonuBopathic MutwU ZAfe Inturanee Com--
pany, New Yorkf makes the following atcUemerU : —
Total Btunbtt of FoUdaB Temunated
iMoed. by death.
HonuBopAthio 8827 (or 1 in 71) 124
Non-HomoBopathio .... 2466 (or 1 in 27) 89
(or nearly 1 to 8).
No. 9, Vol. 25. 2 o
564 PRINCIPLES OF HOMOEOPATHY. ^'SS^f^Trnfla!
Bented at the other extremity in an absolntely perfect way
for the information of the brain."*
The peripheral extremities are always famished with a
mechanism adapted to the peculiar mode of vibration they
are meant to transmit. Heat being a mode of molecular
motion requires no peculiar apparatus and has none. Touch
requires an apparatus of a simple kind. As we ascend
through the various senses, through the sense of taste, of
smell, of hearing, and of sight, the apparatus of reception
becomes more complex. Thus, in the present state of
our knowledge I think it is probable that the apparatus for
sensation is constituted somewhat after this fashion. First,
there is the nerve cord, a sort of telegraphic wire ; then
there is the carrier fluid, the vis nervosa of Dr. Drysdale,
analogous to the electricity which travels along the wire ;
then there is the special fluid, the vibrations of which cause
our various sensations — dare I say our thoughts, feelings,
And emotions ? Thus, the sense of heat, the impressions
of touch, the sense of taste, that of smell, of hearing, and
of sight are caused, the last bringing us into communication
with the realms of space, and with their phenomena.
But there are other sensations not perceptible in health,
but which come out in diuease or when the body is affected
ly certain noxious agents, mechanical or otherwise. Thus,
for instance, in a strong, cold, north-east wind a delicate
individual feels a strong sensation of cold which, through
the sensory nerves, is conveyed to the brain, from whidi,
through the vaso-motor nerves, the vessels at the surface
are contracted, the skin becomes pale and almost bloodless,
or blue and livid. This may also be the direct effect of
cold. If this ends here, a little warmth sets it right again.
But it may not end here. Then another set of reflex actions
are set up, terminating in one or more of the internal organs
— generally one or more of the serous membranes— the
pleurse or synovial membranes. These vessels are not
calculated to withstand the shock, and after a few alterna-
tions of diameter some weaker portion subsides into a
paralytic state. It becomes dilated, and stagnation of the
•circulation takes place, and what is called inflammation is
set up. Stabbing pains on every inspiration impede the
breathing, and the phenomena of pleurisy are developed. I
once met with a case of this kind, and as its phenomena are
* " Some Sensations and Pains discossed, with an attempt to detennine
their mode of origin and production." Poblished in Monthly Horn. Reviem,
^^f ^tT^"* PBINCIPLBS OF HOMOEOPATHY. 555
•characteristic, and its mode of cessation illustrates the
Action of a homoeopathic medicine, I transcribe it.
'* A yoong lady, a teacher at a school, when walking out
with the scholars on a cold frosty day, a sharp north-east
wind blowing, was seized with violent pleuritic stitches. I
found her in bed ; a hard pulse of 120 ; great agony ; every
breath caused acute stabs; every movement was acutely
painful. Yet she was so restless she could not keep quiet.
•One dose of aconite 80 was the only medicine I gave her.
In a short time after taking it, five minutes she said, a most
violent perspiration broke out-— a vapour bath was the term
she used — and all her pains left her. The next day I found
her free from pain and fever but weak."
The rationale of the process by which the disease was
-set up I have given above, at least, what I suppose was the
rationale — What explanation is to be given of the cure ?
The answer to this lies in an explanation of the mode of
action of medicines, and especially of the higher attenua*
tions. Medicinal action consists in a particular mode of
motion controlling and altering the mode of motion which
is constantly going on in the different nerves. Each medi-
<3ine has its own sphere of action, and controls and alters
the mode of motion in its own sphere of nerves. It does
not alter the mode of motion that is going on, if healthy,*
that is, synchronous with its own mode of motion ; but what-
ever is amiss, out of gear, it restores to its normal action,
and, in fact, sets right all that is wrong. I am speaking
of a proper dose, that is of a dilution. When given in a
large dose it not only acts on the diseased parts, but sets up
morbid movements of its own, deranging the whole nervous
tract.
Thus, in the case before us the aconite descended the
Tasomotor nerves of the pleurae, and finding some of them
weakened in their movements and out of gear, and the
▼easels under their control dilated, strengthened their
action, restored the dilated vessels to their normal calibre,
* I am speaking of the smaU doses. In a large material dose its action
pervades the whole sphere of the nezTons system under its control, and,
instead of merely setting ri^t what is amiss, we have to do with a
deranging inflnence. In one case, the smallness of the dose renders it
too weak to alter the healthy vibrations, bnt only the abnormal. The
largeness of the dose seems to derange the harmony, and even though its
vibrations are syndironons, they beat down the normal vibrations and
raporsede ti^em, thus producing disease or an extension of it. The small*
ness of the dose limits and softens the action.
656 PBIKCIPJUBS OF HOM(EOPATHY. ""S^lf Sept. i; issL
consequently caused the pains produced by their pressm^
to subside, and set np a series of actions, ending in the
relaxation of £he cutaneous ressels and profbse perspiration.
Thns, the process is reversed ; the dilated yessels of the
plenrs are contracted, and the contracted vessels of the
skin are dilated, and relieve themselves by transpiration.
The blood previously thrown npon the vessels of the-
interior, which were nnable to bec^ it, is thrown ontwards
on the cntaneoQS vessels, which relieve themselves by per-
spiration. This is a common mode of relief. But the
other day rheomatism of the knee-joint gave way to the
action of mercury, which set np a profuse perspiration with
complete relief. This is a very common mode of relief if
the vessels of the interior are strong enough to throw back
the blood-cnrrent to the surface. In intermittent fever
relief is accompanied by a profuse perspiration, by a natural
or medicinal reaction. Here is a quotation from Stanley.
"Early in the morning I commenced on my qtdnine doses;
at 6 a.m. I took a second dose ; before noon I had taken
four more, altogether fifty measured grains, the effect of
which was manifest in the perspiration, which drenched
flannels, linen, and blankets. After noon I rose, devoutly
thankful that the disease which had clung to me for the
last fourteen days had at last succumbed to quinine.** *
On the other hand, we have numerous cases treated by
small doses. In Buckert's Klinische Erfahrungen we have
twenty-seven cases so treated, and all successfully, with
china, and eleven cases treated likewise successfully with
chinin. suLph., first attenuation. How is it, then, such
different doses alike prove curative ? One dose produces-
intermittent fever, the other cures it, but is unable to
produce it. One would have thought that the large dose,
capable as it is of producing the ^sease, would aggravate
it. Is it possible that it sets up such a turmoil in the
system that in its sphere a crisis is produced by which the
disease is expelled when it is already produced ? This
would be one devil driring out another. An examinatioa
of cures by large doses, of which there should be many in
our ranks> would throw light on this subject. I beheye
* Stanley's How I Found LivingBtone, p. 1 92. He had sevezai attacks-
of fever after this. He speaks of the '* athninia or deq>0Ddeney in which,
he was plunged by eyer-reonzring fevers." He adds, '* My enfeebled
stomach, harrowed and izritated with medicinal oompoonds — tpee., cdo-
cyrUhj tartar em., quinine — protested against the coarse food." 8o mnch
lor driig treatment 1
lS^^jS^t!VS^ PBINCIPLES OP HOMCBOPATHT. 557
that the cnres so wrought are more violent and less rapid,
and more apt to return, than those by smaller doses, which
are accompanied with less straggle, as only the diseased
parts are touched, while the healthy parts remain unaffected*
Jn the small dose the vibrations are synchronous with those
of the healthy parts, and only those which are out of gear
are touched. In the other case the whole sphere of the
medicine, that is the sphere on which it acts, is abnormally
and violently acted on. The vibrations and oscillations of
the vessels are tumultuous and endanger their continuity,
and then a crisis takes place, and things are made right as
after a storm. This is dangerous work ; it is a trial of
strength, the vessels may give way, and then all is over.
Sweats may set in, but not of the kind that restores. The
patient sinks under the action of the medicine. The subject
is a very interesting one, and will make an excellent subject
for experimentation, and will have the advantage of settling
the vexed question of the dose. There are numberless
^diseases, however, in which there are no crises, in which
the vessels of the part, chronically dilated, have lost their
elasticity. If they are restored to their normal state by
-one dose of a homoeopathic medicine, they speedily relapse
into their usually dilated and diseased state. These are
>our chronic cases, and this state of things is to be met by
A skilful repetition of doses, and if the part is accessible by
A typical stimulant or by large doses, we should not give
a second dose until the first has exhausted or nearly
•exhausted its action, and we should persevere with one
medicine as long as it seems to do good. The too conmion
plan of alternations is contrary to the dictates of common
i9ense, may impede the action of the right medicine, and
prevent the acquisition of experience. I do not mean that
alternations are never of use ; but the fact should be ascer-
tained by careful experiments, and no alternation should be
used in the happy-go-lucky way of modern practice. The
charioteer in the car of homoeopathy always drives at least
a pair of horses, but rarely well matched. There must be
magic in number two.
There is another class of cases which do not or rarely do
admit of crises. When the vessels in the interior open
upon mucous surfaces, these then relieve themselves
rartially, and set up a series of actions which run a course.
J*irst, they contract, and the membranes become dry, then
their discharges are poured forth, and lastly, they become
558 PRINCIPLEB OP HOMCEOPATHY. ^B^.^^tTSt
thicker. Ulcerations occur, and in one case fibrinons-
exudations nnder the inflaence of north-east winds, as in
cronp. We must recollect the disturbing agency is applied
in this class of cases to both surfaces. The results of
treatment are often gradual, and people rarely take medi-
cine for a cold. Now, a great deal of all this may be mere
speculation. It is a worlong hypothesis which may serve a
turn till superseded by a better. The hypothesis that aU
sensations and pains come under the category of modes of
motion, as those of the senses undeniably do, is according
to the analogy of nature. That the rectification of abnormid
motions by the setting up of normal ones is at least pro-
bable, and accounts for tiie non-production of change, and
therefore of sensation, where the vibrations are synchronous.
Change, and therefore cure, is only effected where the
vibrations are not synchronous, and therefore diseased.
The hypothesis is also rendered probable by what we now
know of the way in which the electric fluid conveys along
the wire sound, light, and heat. The small doses of
bomceopathy are accounted for and their efficiency explained
when medicinal action is referred to vibration, and attention
vrill be directed to points of practical interest, such as
alternations of medicines and the doses. In various and
unlooked for ways an hypothesis, if it approaches truth,
may be useful. It directs investigation and leads to other
guesses, which, when they are of an experimental character,
may be verified or discarded. The first step, or at any
rate a very important step, in the scientific application of
homoeopathy is the remodelling of our Materia Medica^
We must reform our medicines. The symptoms must be
arranged in the order in which they occur. The doses in
which the drugs are given should be stated, and the effect
of change of dose upon the nature and order of the symp-
toms should be ascertained. The symptoms themselves
should be analysed, so that their caases, seat, and nature
should be ascertained.
In my papers on Same Sensations and Pains I have
endeavoured to do this in regard to the sensations of heat
and burning — ^very inadequately, I confess. It is a hnmble
attempt ; I have done what I cotdd. But there will be
some advantages in the method of proving suggested. The
rise and progress of the different sensations may be dis-
tinctly traced. An important element this in ascertaining:
the causes, seat, and nature of the symptoms, an advantage
B^^^P^u^^ PRINCIPLES OP HOMCEOPATHY. 559
I did not possess. In following out these investigations,
the resoarces which chemistry and the microscope have
placed at oar disposal should he brought to bear. The
excretions^ especially the nrine, should be thus examined.
Disease should also be studied with equal minuteness and
accuracy. Every advance in the knowledge of pathology is
an advance in that of drug-action. In fact they are one and
the same. We may obtain and utilise the labour of our
allopathic brethren, at present, from the want of a system of
healing, almost purposeless, A branch of the enquiry will
be the action of the different remedies on each other, and
the modification of symptoms by such action. This looks
all very well when we are laying down plans, but the
process is slow and tedious when we come to action. It
would be well to form an experimental committee to prove
the medicines and arrange the symptoms. Another com*
mittee might analyse and endeavour to find the cause,
nature, and seat of the symptoms. The energies of the
homcBopaihic world should be turned towards these objects.
Should it be objected that the members of a hard-worked
and ill-paid profession can ill afford to devote time to such
objects, money might supply that want by enabling self-
denying, conscientious men to devote themselves to these
purposes. The world will pay for what it wants. A few
hundreds a year for each of the five or six men that
would be wanted would be a slight thing to do for the
attainment of such a purpose. Hahnemann's law would
thus be presented to the world shorn of all its impedi-
menta, and fit for application to every case. The savage
at the spring would be nowhere. All attempts to include
truth by including everything, even the unimportant and
minute, would be rendered unnecessary by a perfect
analysis. Transitional and temporary aberrations would
be merged in one uniform and scientific system of practice
which might admit of additions, but not of change. The
reckless and murderous school of the Lettsom's would be
superseded by a tender and reverent approach to the noblest
work of God — a process at present going on. Secundum
Martem would cease to be synonymous with secundum
artem in medical practice.
In conclusion, what is wanted for the scientific applica-
tion of the law of similars in practice is, I think, a rational
and true theory of medicinal action (the one proposed may
not be the trae one, bat it is proposed merely as a working
660 CAMP LOU. ^%S£
hypoUiegis in &iilt of a better); a remodeUing of our
Materia Medica in a naioral ordra* ; a carefol analysis of
symptoms^ so that we may be sore that our similars sro
not alike merely in iqipearance, but in reality; last, bat not
least, embracing all oar researches, a humble and reverent
spirit as becomes workers in the great temple of Ood.
Bochdale, Jnly, 1881.
" CAMP LOU."
By Dr. A. S. Kbnkedt, Blackheath.
** Camp Lou " is the title of an article in the May nnmber
of Harper^s Monthly, which opens up a subject of great
interest to the medical world. It is written by a news-
paper reporter after his retom, in comparatiyely robnst
health, from a district in the Adirondack mountains, to
which he had been sent as a dernier reuort. As he says
himself, he went hunting for health, and he found it.
About two years ago. Dr. A. L. Loomis, of New York
City, read, before the State Medical Society, a paper
entitled ''The Adirondack Region as a Therapeutical
Agent in the Treatment of Pulmonary Phthisis " {Medical
Record, toI. xv.). Dr. Loomis speaks from personal ex-
perience of this district, having been himself the victim of
phthisis, the only survivor of a family, everyone of whom,
save one, died of phthisis. After trying many climates,
and having been made worse by a journey south, he went
to the Adirondack wilderness, and when, after a residence
of some months in the woods, he returned free from cough,
with an increase in weight of twenty pounds, he very
naturally became an enthusiast. For eleven years he has
been sending invalids to that region, at first for the
summer only, and latterly for the whole year. He cites
twenty cases of persons who tested this experiment, and,
after an extended trial, he reports ten as recovered, six as
improved, two not benefited, and two dead. The ten
absolute cures were in cases of catarrhal phthisis, the form
of the disease which seems most benefited by residence in
the wilderness. The characteristics of the climate are the
extreme purity of its atmosphere and the high percentage
of ozone. Balsamic odours abound from pine, balsam,
spruce, and hemlock trees. The air is cool and moist, but
the soil is so porous as to be always dry. The cold in
winter is great and continuous, snow lying thickly until
^SS^^^^T^^ CAMP LOU. 661
Seviaw, Sept. 1, 18S1.
March, when the thaw is rapid, and the moisture rapidly
Tans through the soil. He dwells especially upon the dry*
ness of the soil as being of the greatest importance to the
patient.
The writer of the article amved in the Lake St. Regis
•district in the last stage of the disease — in fact, his friends
scarcely expected to get him there. His tent was pitched
^n the borders of a lovely lake, near the one hotel of the
neighbourhood. The great point in the treatment is that
-the patient liyes in a hut or tent, so as to be almost
•entirely in the open air, breathing always the healing
atmosphere, and drawing in new life with each breath.
To quote his own words — *' To begin with, camp life is to
l>e considered as perhaps the most important feature of the
wilderness cure. When the reporter first came into the
woods, his ideas with regard to this matter of camping out
were vague in the extreme. Having faithfally read all the
books on the Adirondacks that he could find, the im-
pression left was a jumble of woollen blankets, rubber
<»oat8, hemlock boughs, salt pork, and a frying-pan. To-
day he is glad to be able to report that camping out, so far
SB relates to the St. Elegis country, may be absolutely
dissociated from pork, fr3^ing-pans, and all other abomina-
tions. Here, forty miles in the wilderness, one may
surround himself with all the comforts and nearly all the
luxuries that he can enjoy in his own city home."
And really, if the readers of the Review could only see
the pictures of the invalid's hut, and read the descriptions
of camp life, I think they would be inclined to agree with
Mm. Passing over the graphic descriptions of camp life
in this delightful spot, we come to the manner in which
the winter is generally spent by the invalid.
The writer stands out stoutly for the necessity of
staying in the St. Begis district during the winter. The
atmosphere is then like that of Davos-am-Platz, which is
regarded with so much favour as an invalid residence.
Daring this time the invalid must live in one of the hotels
of the district or in a boarding-house, of which there are
several in the small towns of Saranac and Bloomingdale.
^' The winter months are generally dry, cold, and almost
entirely free from thaws. . As a rule also the snow-fall is
abundant, and three or four months continuous sleighing
may be counted upon with certainty. In winter, as in
summer, the first duty of the patient should be to live out
662 CAMP LOU. ^SSS^
of doors as much of the time as is practicable. If not
strong enough to hont — and winter hunting is rare good
sport here — or to tramp oyer the snow-covered roads, then
he may resort to riding, and thus secure the benefits of the
bracing air."
The food is good at the boarding-honses, with the
exception of one important item, viz., beef. " Adirondack
beef is tougher than anything in this world ^riiich it has
been the lot of the reporter to grapple with, an assertiffli
not lacking in solemnity when it is remembered that
reportorial experience familiarises a fellow with criminals,
politicians, and the orthography of the man who writes
gratuitous communications (on both sides of the sheet) to
the daily press."
Now, as to the cost. The reporter was not a rich num,
and had to carefally count the cost of everything. The
conclusion he comes to cannot &il to be comforting. He
says : " From his personal experience and the oppor-
tunities afforded him of studying the subject, the reporter
is convinced that a person can journey to the St. Begis
country, spend a year there, give the experiment a &ir
trial, and all for a smaller sum than the same person must
necessarily spend at home. He can pay the cost of the
journey from New York, buy a good tent, and fit up a
camp so that it shall be in all respects comfortable, spend
the winter months in a hospitable farmhouse, live on bed",
mutton, venison, partridges, chickens, speckled trout,
fresh eggs, pure milk, sweet butter, and a variety of
vegetables, recover his health, and his entire outlay for the
year need not exceed the £2 8s« a week which he would
have spent at home, taking the expenditure in New York
at 12 dollars at the lowest."
The reporter gives a tabular statement of the expenses
for two persons for twelve months' residence.
Gamp-life Period— Fivb Months: —
Canvas tent and camp equipments . . .
Labour and buildings
Food and all necessaiy expenses at
9 dollars per week
Guide for season ...
£
B. d.
20
0 0
10
0 0
86
0 0
80
0 0
£96
0 0
SsSii^llST?^ CAMP LOU. 663
Beview, Sept. 1, 1881.
HOUBB-LIFB PeBIOD — SbVEN MoNTHS I —
Board and washing 61 12 0
Horse for driving 16 16 0
Extras for table 20 0 0
je98 8 0
Total ... £194 8 0
The average weekly expenditure on this scale reaches
£S 16s., but this supposes many laxories which coald
easily be omitted wi^out in the least endangering the
experimenter's chances of recovery.
'' In a word, then, the wilderness is poverty's paradise.
Yon can rent a house here, with two or three acres of
ground, for 10 shillings a month. You can buy mutton,
or venison, or beef for 10 cents a pound, partridges or
chickens for 25 cents a-piece, butter for 16 cents, speckled
trout for 5 cents. You can get your wood all sawn and
split for 1 dollar a cord, and a horse to use all through
the winter for his keeping."
Camp Lou has now passed out of the stage of an
experiment. Numbers of consumptives have since thea
gone to this region and regained health and strength.
The district is within easy reach of England. Travel
now-a-days is sufficiently easy and luxurious to permit
of invalids from our own country reaching this new
sanatorium in safety. The journey may be comfortably
broken at New York and other places of interest en route^
so that by short and easy stages a patient may be enabled
to reach this district, which promises so good a chance of
arresting the disease, and a restoration in great measure of
health and strength.
Surely this is worth a trial. We send patients to
Egypt, the Gape, Davos, Queensland, in fact, anywhere,
that they may have a chance of recovery through climatic
influence. Why not send some to St. Begis? In the
brief space of tlus review there are many points of interest
necessarily omitted, and no justice can be done to the
lovely etchings which adorn the pages of the article. I
would earnestly recommend all who are interested in the
subject to obtain the May number of Harper's Monthh/y,
and read for themselves what I have been able to give only
the barest outline of.
564 MEETINGS OP BOCIBTIEB. *fe^S!!?"?'TS*
finvjeWy Sept. Ip IflSL.
MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES.
THE BANQUET TO THE VISITORS TO THE INTEB.
NATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIC CONVENTION.*
At the invitation of British homoeopathic phjadans, the
Ameriean and foreign Tisitors were entertained at a banqnet ai
the Criterion on fViday evening, July 16th. The Preaideiift
(Dr. Hughes) occupied the chair ; Dr. Pope the vice-chair.
At the conclusion of the dinner, the Chaibmak called npon the
'Company to charge their glasses, and said : It is always custo-
mary in this country, when we begin onr toast drinking, first of
all tu drink the health of Her Migesty the Qneen ; and although
the present assemblage is that of the Intsmational Homodopathie
Convention, I am sure there will be no gnidging on the part of
the members of any nationality here represented in the response
iiCGorded to the toiust I am about to ask you to drink. We, here
in England, have the satisfEu^tion of knowing that the honour and
respect we feel for the person of Queen Victoria is shared hj
every one who knows anything of her, and that there is no
Sovereign in Europe who is more honoured wherever she goes.
I venture also to say that in our sister America — ^though no
longer subject to the British Crown — ^there is more than honour
— ^ere is affection felt for the head of our State, and that ** the
<2ueen " is a household name there as well as here for one who
has adorned her high place, and has shown therein all the viitaes
of a mother, a wife, and a woman. (Cheers.) The Queen knows,
and well exemplifies one chief office of the Monarchy, thai is, to
represent her country — ^to r^resent it alike in its historic past
and in the mind of its present ; and that office of hers was never
more worthily fulfilled than when our brethren over the sea were
plunged suddenly into great trouble through the calamity which
fell upon the head of their States. She then was foremost in
shoignng her spirit of sympathy and affection. We all sympa-
thised with her then ; and I ask you to sympathise with us
to-day, and to drink to the health of Her Majesty the Queen.
(Cheers.)
The toast was cordially received, and accompanied with the
singing of the National Anthem.
Dr. Pope, in proposing the next toast, said : I ask you to
drink the health of the Prince and Princess of Wales and tiie
members of the Royal Family, assured that it is a haoilj that
eigoys a high degree of popularity not only in this country, when
it is perfectly natural, but in every other country in the world.
The Prince of Wales in his time has travelled over the greattf
* Through the ooortosy of the Preddent of the reoMit Convention, we
aie enabled to present onr readers with an ample report of the speeches
at the dinner, to whidi we briefly referred last month.
22^f^t mSS!** meetings op societies. 665
portion of the ciTilised world. His yiflit to the United States and
to Canada some years ago was one of very pleasant memories to
many who were there. As a visitor to Paris there is no one who
is more popular than the Prince of Wales, and it is the same as
regards Vienna and St. Petersburg, and we may say all over
Eniope. Hence there is a veiy great degree of propriety in
asking an International assembly to drink the health of the
Prince and Princess of Wales and the members of the Royal
Family, which I now do.
This toast having been doly honom^,
The Chairman said : Now, gentlemen, that we have performed
oar loyal duties, we can address onrselves to the subjects which
more immediately bring us together. But before we can say a
word abont homoeopathy or homceopatiis, we must first remember
bim to whom we owe both homoeopathy and homoeopaths ; we
must first of all honour the memory of Hahnemann ; we do that
as nsufd by drinking to his memory in solemn silence, and I will
ask Dr. De Gersdorff, of Boston, to propose the toast which we
shall thus honour.
Dr. De Gbbsdorff : Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the
Homoeopathic World's Convention, I am truly over-powered by
the honour you bestow upon me by asking me to propose the
toast to the memory of Hahnemann, for I claim certainly no
right to it in the presence of so many of his more worthy
disciples. But if the personal, and almost filial affection, which
I entertain for him and his memory, and which I have
entertained during my entire life, can give one a rig^t to it,
I may claim it. The great master was esteemed as my own
father and true friend, and my physician in my infancy, and
I can truly say that by his judicious treatment, my life, when
laid low, and in much danger, after a scarlet fever, was saved by
him ; he saved me also from the horrors of the old-fashioned
allopathy of 1824. He himself had the satisfaction of verifying
his method by curing me with fresh air, good diet, and cole. carb.
Thus it happens, that as I have occasionally gloried in this event
of my early lifb, one of my Boston friends has called me the
** lap-boy of Hahnemann.'' I do not think that there is a man
among us who has been more beset than I have by doubts of the
various theories of Hahnemann, and who yet at the same time is
more strong in hb conviction of the greatness of the man and his
method. TmUi is a wholesome, but often, also, a searching fire.
It is only rarely that a Prometheus arises to snatch it from the
heavens ; and your great Shakespeare, hundreds of years ahead
of his time, guessed at a physiolgioal taruth when he made Hamlet
flay—
" Oh that this too, too solid fleih
Would m«lt, thaw* and resolve itself
Into dew."
566 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ^BS^.^sStTttn!
foreshadowing thereby the cureulation, the offioe, and the desti-
nation of the blood. So did onr lUufltrionB TT«ttiTiflmiMm ovedeap
his time, and penetrate with prophetic wisdom the mysteries d
life and disease and those of the power in the drag, and he
ignited his Promethens torch by pronouncing the living method,
a method of action, in the immortal words unuUa dmHSm
curantur. (Cheers.)
The CaiOBMAN : One word in addition. In drinking to the
memory of Hahnemann, let us remember also those three worthy
disciples and followers of his who have departed from us duriD^;
the last five years — Qoin, Nunez, and Hering.
The toast was drunk in solemn silence.
The CHATBifAW : The next toast on our list is ** Prosperity to
Medical Education." And I shall ask a gentleman whom we
have been very glad to see among us on this occasion, coming
from the hi north of Russia, to propose that toast. He vill
appreciate the toast of Medical Education more than most of as,
from the fact that homoeopathy has no educational opportnnitiee
in that country. I shall ask to respond to the toast a gentlemis
who represents a country where medical education in homoeopathy
is widely difiused, and who, as Dean of the MediealFaeulty of the
University of Boston, stands at the head of it. I shali ask
Dr. Talbot to reply.
Dr. Von Dittbcann, in proposing " Prosperity to Medical
Education,*' said : I think we have idl been delighted to listen at
one of the sittings of our Congress to the very able speech of our
most learned and illustrious colleague, Dr. Talbot, in which ha
gave us a short account of the excellent and almost astonishing
results of special homoeopathic education in America. If it is
true that in the old world the question of introducing homiBopathy
into the official centres of science, the universities in the difiereot
lands, meets with such difficulties as to make it nearly impossibie,
and if, on the other hand, there are many important reasons for
suggesting that perfect knowledge of the therapeutic method of
the old sdiool is desirable, and gives to the homoeopathic pne*
titioner a very great advantage in meeting the mockery or the
assailings of the allopathic physicians — nevertheless it cannot be
doubted a moment, that as long as we do not find out a way to
give larger opportunities than we do now to young physicians of
the old school to learn homoeopathy, we shidl never be able U>
compete with our brethren on the other side of the Atlantic I
hope that this question, once raised by Dr. Talbot, will not he
dropped, but most carefully examined, so as to ascertain the
possibility of founding homoeopathic schools for young physieiaDS
who have obtained the license to practise from the universities
of the old school, and that every one of us will do his best to
frurther this question by following the good example of our
hS^^^X!^ meetings of societies. 567
American coUeagaea. I beg to propose the toast of ** Prosperity
io Medical Education/' and the health of Dr. Talbot, Dean of
the Medical Faculty of the University of Boston. (Applause).
The toast having been dnly honoured,
Dr. TaiiBOt, in response, said : Mr. President and Gentlemen,
— the subject of medical education is one too broad and too deep
to go into to any great extent to-night, and I do not propose to
bore you with a long speech upon that subject, but a Httle anec-
dote perhaps may start us right. Possibly you have heard of a
gentleman who was going to a town supposed to be not very far
distant ; as he was going along, and not feeling quite certain of
the way, he met a Yankee fEurmer, to whom he said, ** Can you
tell me how &r it is to Dedham ? " << Well," said the Yankee,
*' the way you are going now, it is about 24,000 miles, but if
you turn right round, and go the other way, it is only a little
^ay.*' Now, medical education, for the last 6,000 years, has
often times been going the other way a long distance round ; but
at its shortest distance, and in the best method that it can be
pursued, you wHl bear me out, gentlemen, in saying that it is no
4ihort, and no easy way. (Hear, hear.) Our homoeopathic schools
in America, that you have so kindly alluded to, have been esta-
bHshed by men of earnestness and of education — men who have
been willing to make every sacrifice, from Hering in his earliest
efforts in ijuerica, to those gentlemen who are associated together
in our medical schools in America to-day ; they have all made
great sacrifices for it ; and yet, gentlemen, what they have done
has been only the beginning of i£e way for homoeopathy. If we
Lave started them with a compass, with a law — ^witiii good direc-
tions which shall take them in the right course, we are happy ;
but, gentlemen, it requires more than schools ; it requires the
daily effort of our lives ; it requires our association one with
another ; it requires our literature ; it requires our hospitals, our
dispensaries, and all the connections with which the medical
profession is associated, to give a proper medical education to
the physician; and let me say that this association, and this
meeting, has done not only for me, but I trust for every one of
US, something to help us in our medical education. (Cheers).
The Chaibhan: Gentlemen, we have wished prosperity to
medical education, but mediciue, strictly speaking, does not
include surgery; and yet we have here to-day such eminent
representatives of American surgery that I feel the subject
demands a special toast. Surgery, thanks to our American
brethren, has done great things for homoeopathy, and we must
therefore wish it prosperity to-night. I call upon Dr. Burnett
to propose the toast, and upon Dr. Helmuth to reply.
Dr. BuBMETT : I have pleasure in rising to propose the toast,
namely, ** Medical Surgery " or surgery, with special reference
568 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. ^BSSJ.^S^tJttaT
to American snidery. We poor miforkmate homoeopatiiB hare
been accused of eyerythmg nearly, and have been told that we
have failed in eyerything. It is said we are not rq>resenting
science in any way, and I bave heard it said and repeated ihai
we have never produced a first-class snrgeon. We have the
honour to-night to have here one of the first surgeons of the day —
(applause) — and, having the presence of one of the first sargeona
of the day, I am sure yon will not expect me to occupy your
time. I tiierefore propose " Health and Prosperity to Amerieaa
Surgery," and couple with it the name of our honoured guest.
Dr. Hehnuth.
The toast was warmly responded to.
Dr. Helmuth, in reply, said : Mr. President, if it were not
that a surgeon should never be on the sick list, that he should
be up to all emergencies, and ready at all times to meet the
demands made upon him, I certainly should feel overcome by
this extraordinary demonstration of your society and tiie
assembled physicians ; but my love for my science and my ait
bear me up. They call me an enthusiast in surgeiy, and so I
ought to be, and I expect to bring before you some arguments ia
a few minutes which will go to prove that actuaDy the whole
world was peopled through surgery and through nothing else.
(Laughter). Li order to prove that if there were no surgeiy
there would be no population, I have put this little argument d
mine into verse, and, if you will allow me, I will repeat it to you
now. Dr. Helmuth then recited a humorous poem, to prove
that, while medicine was claimed to be as old as man, and
surgery was regarded as its poor relation, as a matter of &et
surgery preceded medicine, and in age could claim priority.
Describing the temptation of Eve and the fall of herself and
Adam, he said —
" 'Tis tme the snake aroused the onriosify, and gave to Eve
the apple fair and bright ;
She ate, and with a fatal generosity inveigled Adam to a
Insoioiu late.
But from that time disease and sofleiing came,
Boctors were called vapon to core the evil ;
The art of healing then, with all its fame,
Was but, at the best, developed by the DeviL.
Medicine thus came eoBval with the sinning
Of Mother Eve (fair creature, though qnite human),
' While noble suigeiy had its beginning
In Paradise, before there was a woman.
But facts are facts, and we are all agreed
That Satan laid on man the diref nl rod ;
The doctors aie the Devil's progeny,
While surgeons came directly down from God.*'
In illustration of this assertion, Dr. Hehnuth went on to say
\ that^
w^S^^kS^ meetings op societies. 569
" Adam piotonndly slept by axuBsthesia,
And from his thorax was removed a bone.
This was the first recorded operation,
No doctor here dare tell me that I fib ;
And surgery, thus early in creation,
Can claim complete excision of a rib.
This is nothing to the obligation
The world to surgery most surely owe,
• "When woman (loTeliest of the creation)
Ottew and developed from that very bone.
From this the world was peopled.'*
Thus hftTing finished his task, he asked them to —
** Sometimes give honour to the bright scalpel,
And, when you recolleot what I have told you,
"Remember me — *tis all I ask — farewelL'*
{Applause).
Dr. DuDOGON, in proposing the toast of '* Medical Literature,* *
said : When Dr. Pope requested ma to propose this toast I was
much too submissive to think of objecting to it, because we never
refuse what our " Pope " proposes, but I feel that I am very in-
competent to speak to the toast of Medical literature. When I look
around the table and see more than one gentleman who has already
distinguished himself in the path of medical literature, it seems
presumptuous to select a humble individual like mysdLf for this
honour. Perhaps the reason is that I have destroyed more sheets
of paper with my literature than most of you. But the Latin
Bays Litsra seripta manet, I hope that is not literally true,
because if it were the world would soon be too small to contain
all the books that are written on medicine. I think, in order to
bring it within reasonable compass, we must confine ourselves to
the literature of homosopathy. Now we have representatives
here from all the countries of Europe, and those representatives
of homoBopathy are also the representatives of homoeopathic
literature, for it is a curious fact that the cacoeth^s scribendi is so
rife among medical men that no medical man thinks himself
properly initiated into the profession till he has written a book.*
{Laughter). I think we may say '* so manj heads so many
books." Some of the heads have produced a good many books.
But the literature of homodopathy is represented to night by
delegates from different parts of the world. The homoeopathic
literature of America is enormous, and is represented by some
of its most illustrious representatives. The literature of France
also is represented here by Dr. Claude ; the hterature of Russia
is represented by our friend Dr. Von Dittman ; and the literature
of Italy by Dr. Oigliano. Now it would be presumptuous on my
part to take upon mys€df to assign anything like discriminating
honour to the different countries as fsur as literature is concerned.
We are a very small body in this country, but still we have
produced a great deal of literature, and the hterature of all the
Ko. 9, Vol. 36. 2 F
670 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES^ ^^Jg^^J^J^
other countnes is also a verj oonsiderable qaaniatj in propor-
tion to the number of representatives of homoeopathy in thoeo
countries. It appears that those who practise homoeopathy
write a great deal more in proportion than the old school, and
the matter that we have written, I think, will compare Tery
fiayourably with anything that has been written by the professon-
(or others) who represent allopathic literature. I will not detain
you longer, gentlemen, because the subject is too vast and my
powers are too limited to worthily speak upon the subject, but I
will call upon Dr. Foster, who is also one of our transailantus'
Tisitors, to reply to this toast, and I hope you will join with me
ID drinking his health and his success. (Cheers).
The toast was cordially received.
Dr. FosTBB in reply, said there was no sentiment to which he
could respond more fervently and cordiaUy than that of ** Medical
Literature." For what was medical literature but the consum-
mated flower of all past medical experience ? Or, it might perhaps-
still better be likened to the last product of a long series of physi-
cal elaboration — ^the blood — ^not only the blood which supplied
the general system, but medical literature was the blood which
supplied the cerebral circulation in the organic bodies of medical
men. When this cerebral fluid was supplied in sufficient quantity
and quality then the medical organisation which corresponded to
the brain matter received their aliment therefrom, rushed out to
feed upon it as their natural aliment, grew strong and robust and
jovial under its influence, and then merely began to express
themselves in rhythmic thought and to send forth hymus of
scientiflc praise. When this medical literature was not supplied,
then — as with the brain, which would fedl if it were not supplied
with blood — they would sink to sleep or it might be to death. But
the analogy did not hold good any further. It had be^i weD
said that ** men die but man lives ;'* and so while individuals
might sleep, organisations, like the Omnipotent, neither slumber
nor sleep. They are eternal, and are made so in great part by
the power of their constant aliment, which was supplied in t2i«
form of medical literature. The function of the Christian rdigioa
was to make all men one by identifying them in one of the most
sacred of all sentiments, mutual love ; the object of medical
literature to medical men was analogous to that, if not so
great ; yet so great was it that he might compare one with
the other, for it was to make all of them intellectua]]^
one in the possession of common thought and a common
intelligence. (Applause). They had seen a noble exempliflcafckm
of that idea during the meetings of the week, where the intelli-
gence of many nations became the intelligence of each individual,
and the inteUigence of many ages was brought down to the
comprehension of the hour. France had sent her fzibute, and a
bS^^H^ST^ meetings of sooibtxes. 671
tribute worthy of her ; Italy was grandly represented ; Russia,
too, sent her brilliant contribution ; Geimany, the ^reat, power-
ful, and philosophical Fatherland, they missed, but Germany had
mitoed the meetings. America, too, the youngest of all the
countries — and the one which he, amongst others, had the honour to
represent or to misrepresent — (no, no,) — as became her, had sent
her early contribution, somewhat luxuriant and florid, perhaps,
but nevertheless characteristic of her position and her age ; at all
events, America had done her level best — (cheers) — and they might
flatter themselves that she contained within her the promise and
the potency of every form of medical action in the future. And
as for England (the great mother), he must say of her that
*< every man ** among Uiem ** expected England to do her duty,"
as she always had done ; whether as a host, as a friend, or as a
contributor, she had done it gloriously. But those contributions
of wisdom which they had had from so many ages and so many
lands, could not have been given except by the perpetuity of
medical literature ; and the good accomplished by the meetmgs
of the week would be communicated to others by the same means*
The topic of medical literature was a large one, and was inti-
mately connected with medical education. That brought him to
the question of medical colleges, and he could not help thinking
of the marvellous effect that would be produced upon the imme-
diate medical future of Europe if those splendid European
minds whose possessors had contributed to their instruction
during the we^ could all be busily engaged, as they ought to be,
in instructing the youth of their respective countries in the
general therapy and principles of homoeopathy ; he was satisfied
^at before long they would see them so engaged, as the effects
of their influence were everywhere seen ; the value of the homoeo-
pathic remedies were being acknowledged, and the remedies
themselves appropriated and respected by members of the old
school ; and he believed the time was not far distant when it
would be impossible to distinguish between the medical literature
of homoeopathy and that of the r^^ar school, for then they
vould all be one, and all be well taught in general therapeutics,
and they would all derive that which was their birthright as-
physicians, from their thorough acquaintance with medical litera-
ture. (Applause.)
The Chjjbman : The next toast we have to take up now is-
that of hospitals, and following the good example set us by
^» Dudgeon, we will limit ourselves for the present to homoeo-
pathic hospitals — not that we do not love the others a good deal,
but that we love these a littie more. (Applause). I would call
^pon two gentlemen, both from the United States, and both
connected with hospitals, to propose and respond to this toast.
The toast will be proposed by Dr. Bushrod James, of tho
572 MEETIKOS OF SOCIETIES, i.^.^^ «^ i.
Hfthnmnann Hoepital of Fldkdelphia, and responded to hj
Dr. MeClelknd, of Pittsbnig.
Dr. BusHBOD James, in proposing the toast, said : If ^ere i»
one subject that is nearer my heart than another, independent
of the edneation of young men in the profession, and &ie pro-
fession of homoeopathy, and the Luty of homoeopathy, it is this
subject of the progress of our hospitals. I therefore propose
*' Rt)8perity to our Homoeopathic Hospitals." About femieen
years ago, being in in-healthy I sought tiiese shores, and haYing
reached them, I wended my way to this great metropofis — the
metropolis of the world — ^London ; and before I visited that
sacred temple, Westminster Abbey, or that noble struetniB,
8t. Paul's, or that old historic London Tower, I said, ** Where if
the Homoeopathic Hospital ? " I was told that it was in a street
called Great Ormond Street. My expectations were great, and I
soon found my way there. I had the pleasure of visiting year
hospital, and I was much pleased with it and all its arrange-
ments. I have since enquired about it, and find that it has
added to its wards, and, further than that, I find that it has
made additional progress, thanks to that glorious old man, that
noble man, that grand homoeopath, Dr. Qnin, who has left it a
legacy of so much material wealth. (Cheers). I say that that
certainly indicates progress. Now let me refer for a moment to
the signs of the times in my own country, so that you may see
bow we are educating the people there. Oiily a few years ago
flome worthy people in New York began to remember that there
was such a thing as homoeopathy, and that they had been
educated in the science, and two or three prominent men in
New York said, " We will give the homoeopaths a hospital
here,** and they went and picked out a building that would
acconmiodate 700 or 800 patients, and they handed it
over to the homoeopaths. Well, sir, just a week or so before I
left home I was very much pleased with a little fact that
eame under my notice, showing that even in Philadelphia
—dull as it is, and fiir behind as it is in homoeopathy--
the people are beginning to learn, yes, have learnt, its value.
I saw a statement in the papers to this effect. We have what
we call a grand jury; it is composed of men selected
from, the more educated and intelligent of the business comma*
nity ; they were called together and they made a report upon our
hospitals. I should tell you that charitable institutions, among
other things, are included in their duties. These men in thor
visit to the almshouses discovered the fact that there was no
homoeopathy there and that there never had been, and they said
to themselves (sensible men that they were), ** Why do we not put
the homoeopaths in here and let the homoeopaths have a ehanoe
as wen as the allopaths ?" a&d in their r^ort they recommended
aSteSfS^ra?** MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 573
to the Judges of the Court that this defect should be rectified, and
that the subject of the appointment of homoeopathic physicians
as part and parcel of that insitution should be considered. We
have there a club called the Hahnemann Club, and a very few
hours sufficed after that came out in the newspapers to have the
members called together. A committee was appointed and that
committee was very soon in consultation with another committee,
and those committees within a few days were at work. I was so
busy the last few days before leaving home that I could not meet
with that committee, but I had the satisfaction of learning this»
that they had been in consultation, and that they had called
upon the Chairman of the Board of Guardians which has charge
of these almshouses (which have from 8,000 to 4,000 paupers in
them under the charge of five men). The President of the
Association said, '* I am in favour of homoBopathy going into that
institution, how will you arrange it? '' That is a matter for
after consideration, but they have consented to the principle of
our admission, and I suppose the committee are at work, anyhow^
I hope they are at work, and I hope they will accomplish the
object for which they are working before I get back. I have
great pleasure in proposing for your cordial acceptance the toast
of " Ihrosperity to our Hospitals."
The toast having been duly honoured,
Dr. McClelland said : I can answer to that toast with an
unction such as one only can have who has been helping to esta-
blish the prosperity of a hospital. We have a little hospital in
Pittsburg that has done splendid service for humanity, and for
homoBopathy ; and let me just say that that is the function of a
hospital. (Applause). I beheve tiiat the first element of success
in a hospital is that it shall be established in order that it may
do good service for humanity. Let that be the prime, the
cordial object ; and then see that it does good service in the
propagation of homoeopathy. If it is successful as a hospital, it
will be successful in illustrating the doctrines which we profess.
I do not know of any hospital which has been established under
homoeopathic auspices, which has not established the fact that
homoeopathy is superior as a system of therapeutics to allopathy ;
and I can tell you that it is one of the chief means of establishing
ours as a system of practice, of giving us dignity before the world
and in the eyes of the profession at large. Now, I say, in order
to ensure the prosperity of hospitals, one thing particularly is
required, and that is, hard work. (Applause). Nothing in the wide
world will make a hospital successful but hard work, and as our
Poet Laureate has recently established the fact that there is no
greater *' inducer '* (if there is such a word) of medical quarrels
than medical colleges, I can assure you that there is nothing
that cements the medical fraternity to such a degree as hospitals*
674 MEETINGS OP B0CIBTIB8. ^S^^SS^^TSa,
A hospital brings together the best men of the profession as a
Tole ; at any rate, those who do come together woik hand in hand,
not only for hnmanity, bnt for homcBopathy. Therefore, to
neutralise the effect of a medical college (if it is snch as I have
qnoted) in any community, I would advise the immediate estab-
lishment of a hospital. But it certainly does mean work. I
have been connected with our little hospital abont 14 years, not
only as a surgeon, but as one of its trustees ; and I can give yoa
an idea of what we do in a day. Sometimes after a very hard
day's work, and perhaps very little night's sleep, the bell rings
and a message comes up to your door that somebody wants yoa
in great haste in the office. Well, yon get up, feeling very tiied,
and go down stairs, and the first thmg &at greets you is — "Hera
is a patient down in the hospital, who is very sick, and wants
you." Ton hurry down there right away, and periiaps yoa
wish that that hospital was anywhere but in your town. Hinr-
ever, you have got your clothes on, and the demand made
upon you is from the hospital, and therefore you go down
there. Ton would not go to see a patient from whom yoa
would receive a fee, but you go down to that hospital every time.
Well, you get through with the ease and come back again ; yoa
go into your office, and while you are prescribing for your patient
somebody comes up very politely and says, " Doctor, I believe
you are one of the trustees of the hospital.*' — " Yes, sir." — " We
have a little account that has been standing for some time ; I
wish you would bring that to the attention of your board." — *' Oh,
yes, I will do that ; we will have a meeting next week and I will
bring it to the attention of the board." Well, next I go and
look at my visiting Ust and find that there are a lot of cases to
be seen, and there is an operation set at the hospital for twdve
o'clock perhaps ; everything has to be set aside for that ; yoa
must let your private cases wait ; you are getting money for
them, but that has nothing to do with it — at the hospital there is
a patient to be operated upon. Down you go, and it may take
perhaps half-an-hour, or an hour, or two hours, or five hours.
It does not make any difference what time it takes, for it is the
hospital, and you must do your work there ; and so it goes on.
The case is operated upon, you have got through your round of
patients, and you go iMtck home perhaps about midnight, when
you find a message waiting for you — "Come down to the
hospital at once ; tihe patient operated upon is worse." So yoa
turn round and drag off down to the hospital again. People say
" Where is the doctor," and the reply is "Gone down to the
hospital." Now, that is all true, and yet I tell you that it is the
pleasantest work that ever a man did, either for his profession cr
for hnmanity. (Applause). Yon go down, and the patient says,
••Doctor, I am mighty glad you are come," and you can
^^^STSSl" mbbtinos op societies. 576
believe eyery word of it ; and the naraea, and eTerybody, step
.aside and say, *' Doctor, we are migbty gW yon are come."
That yon ean believe, and it pays for all the labonr, and you are
able to say, '* It has been a hard day's work for the hospital, bnt
ril start again to-morrow, and do jnst snch another if it is neces-
sary." (Applause.) Now I have only another word to say, and
I will say it in the langnage of the dassic Rip Van Winkle — ^I
wish that every hospital, and every hospital effort in England (or
all that Enj^and represents, for she represents three -qoarters of
the globe) r and in every country that is represented here '* may
live long and prosper." (Cheers).
Dr. Mbthoffbb next proposed the toast of <' Medical Societies.'*
He said : I am not going to make a speech. There are abondant
reasons why I shonld not. The first is, that I cannot. Bat we
are deeply indebted to the societies among as. In all conntries
wherever a society exists, it keeps alive signs of the progress of
•onr doctrine. We are, therefore, all deeply indebted to them for
their work, and for their contribations in every respect in main-
taining amongst ns that doctrine. I beg to as60<nate with the
toast the name of Dr. Breyfpgle, the President elect of the
American Institute of Homosopathy.
The toast was heartily received.
Dr. BaxYFooiiB, in response, said : No one can deny that the
advancement of medical science is due to the prosperity of medical
societies. They began with medicine, and have been the great
juteries through which the life and spirit of investigation has been
•distributed throughout the medical world. Homceopathy owes
its present position in my judgment to its strong organisation.
In America we have sectional societies distributed all over the
States, and I am proud to say that our oldest and largest
national association is the American Institute of HomoBopaOiy.
That body represents the results of the experiments made by our
brave Dr. Gram, who in 1625 first planted the banner of homoBO-
l^athy in the great centre of our then young Republic, and the
little band of physicians who have braved the perils of the deep
and travelled so many thousand miles to be with you on this
•occasion, now bring you greetings from the American homoeo-
pathic professsion, which numbers over 6,000 members. That
profession has its colleges, its hospitals, its dispensaries and
asylums, planted from one end of our vast country to the other ;
it has its representatives, both State and National, on medical
boards and in medical universities ; and it numbers its cUeni^ls
by the million, among our best and most intelligent people. The
American Institute of Homoeopathy has just closed its session in
New York, and whilst bidding us God-speed in our mission of
love, they bade us extend to you the warm grasp of friendship,
and to convey to you those sentiments of high professional regard
576 MEETINGS OP SOCIETIES. *S2Si^S??S'
BefTisw, Sept 1, laBL
which yon have so richly merited by your devotion and zeal in
the cause of relieTing siofreriDg humanity ; and they hope ifaai
onr meeting on this occasion mil mark an era in omr histoiy and
be bat the beginning of another series of brilhant aehieTemenii
in the medical world. In being called upon to respond to thi^
toast as the highest officer of the American Institute of HonuBO-
pathy on this occasion, I am moved by a deep sense of the high
honour conferred upon me in thus being placed before so maoy
of my distingnished colleagues. I see around me not only many
of the ex-presidents of that institution, but men who have dis-
tingaished themselves by their learning and scientific attainmenk
Perhaps some of them were present when, thirty-five years ago,
that Uttle pioneer band of homoeopaths first orgaoiised die
American Institute of Homoeopathy, and with their axes on tfadr
shoulders struck into the vast wUdemess of medical scienea,
determined to hew their way to recognition and success. (Cheen)*
What obstacles they have encountered, what difficulties tiieyhava
overcome, what results they have accomplished, history alone wiH
tell. It is sufficient for my purpose to point out the fact that tiia
broad way hewn by those brave men stands, and will ever ataodi
as a monument of their ability, industry, and scientific research.
Mr. President, I cannot close my remarks without refeiring to the
very cordial welcome we have received at the hands of our BriiiBh
homoeopathic physicians, and on behalf of our American delegpt-
tion, it is my privilege and my pleasure to extend to yon oar
sincere thanks for your liberal hospitality. (Cheers).
The Chatrman : We hitherto have been acting as one Conven-
lion, but now we must resolve ourselves into a British body, for
we are about to drink the health of our American and then of
our Continental guests. The healths of our American guests-
will be proposed by one eminent man and responded to bj
another*-it will be proposed by Dr. Drysdale and responded to
by Dr. Conrad Wesselhoefl.
Dr. Drysdale, in proposing the toast, said it was one wMefa
he was siire would meet with a warm reception from his English
and Continental colleagues. Since meeting Dr. De Gersdorff he
had been reminded of a very pleasing incident. As a boy he
was educated in France, and as a medical student he was for a
time studying in Germany, and he had just learned that while in
Leipsic Dr. De Gersdorff was a student of law in the same tovUf
but that he afterwards abandoned the legal profession for that of
medicine. In proposing this tosst he felt that he could not
include their American brethren amongst foreigners, fortiiey
spoke the same language and possessed ^e same tone of tbonght
as Englishmen, though they had their feet set in a larger room.
With the exception of that slight difierence they were the samSr
he believed, intellectually, socially and emotionally. He eooli
SSi^sSlTS^ MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 577
not jet go the length that Mr. Gladstone went in saying thai
America had reached pre-eminence in all departments, for he
must say vith regard to art and science, and literature, that the
sceptre still rested with the mother country. But as to medicine
the sceptre of progress in homoeopathy had passed from the
English people over to the Americans. Enghmd and America.
heffji ahout the same time to develop homoeopathy in their
respectiye countries, but they saw what little progress England
had made in the science. The English practitioners had been
cramped and confined from the beginning, they had increased
slowly and had not been able to develop their principles, they
had been shut out from the hospitals, from medical literature and
publications, and all the means of development of medical,
training, and their adversaries had turned round upon them with
unexampled meanness and taunted them with the assertion thai
they could not produce any man-'* great in medicine " as they
called it, but *' great in allopathy *' was what was meant. It was
impossible to expect that homoeopathy could be developed
witiiout hospitals, and without literature and without large
numbers. In England they had not the large numbers, they were
not increasing, and he was afraid they had now reached their acme
(No, no). He hoped not, but at any rate the principles of
homoeopathy were being imported into medicine not through
confessors and martyrs, but through renegades and crypto*
homoeopaths. In America it was otherwise, and they there
counted hundreds where in England they could be counted hj
tens. In the future, when the history of medicine came to be
written, he feared it would be written by those who would say
that what was good in homoeopathy had been imported into*
medicine by the crypto-homoeopaths. He had watched with
interest the great fight that was going on across the Atlantic, and
in looking to the future he felt ^at they could leave their repu-
tation and memory in the hands of their American brethren.
From what he had seen during the meetings of the week he now
felt no fear, for he had been delighted to see men in every
department taking a leading part, and he trusted that they would
in the near future become the majority of the best educated
physicians and surgeons of America, and then medicine would
pass over to homoeopathy. H&re, homoeopathy had been simply
lost in medicine, but there medicine would be absorbed into
homoeopathy, and the progress of medicine would be the progress-
of homoeopathy. (Applause). It had been well said not long ago,
that homoeopathy alone has the friture of medicine, and he
reminded his American colleagues that with their great work
ihey had great responsibility, and upon them the duty rested
that nothing mean or imperfect should be tolerated in homoeo-
pathy. Being representatives of medicine, they should strain.
^78 MEETIHOS OF SOCIETIES. jS^^Stu^OL
•every point to suae medical edueation to its lii^^iest develcfmeiit
in homoBopathy ; they had a great example in Dr. Talbot, vfao
had laised the emrieiilam to a perfection which allppatha had
not yet reached ; and the duty lay with America of meeting the
allopathH with their own wet^ona, and showing them that the
fntore of homoBopatfay was the fiitoie of medicine. ( Applanse.)
Dr. Wbssblhobft, in responding, said that tha« had been
many pleasant things spok^ that evening, and his dnty simply
wonld be to thank them for the cordial recognition that they had
given to the toast. He mi^t remark that he had never seen Her
Majesty's health drank with more cordiality than it had been by
the American delegates present at that gathering. They f^
much gratitude for ^e kind reception with which they had met
on this side of the water, for they had been literally overwhdmed,
and had been revelling in Inxnry ever since they airived in
England ; words fiiiled him to express in a suitable manner the
l^tefol feelings of himself and ereryone who had accompanied
him over the Athmtic.
Dr. Pope, in proposing the health of the visitors from the
Continent of Europe, said they could only regret that some who
had intended to be present had been prevented from attending
the Convention. They could not fail to remember that to the
Continent of Europe they owed homoeopathy in the first instance
— (applause) — and from the Continent of Europe they hoped for
much, and expected much, in the future. They bad been
gratified in seeing firom several countries, gentlemen who were
well-known and able representatives of medicine in their respec-
tive localities, and one of those gentlemen he would ask to
respond to this toast He referred to their friend Dr. Claude,
of Paris, who was veiy well known, wherever homceopathy was
appreciated, as one of the ablest contributors to the literature of
medicine. (Applause).
Dr. CuLUDB said it was with very great pleasure that he roae
to return thanks in the name of his Continental brethren for the
toast so kindly proposed by Dr. Pope. In common with his
Continental coUeagoes, he was very happy to see at the Conven-
tion the faces of so many friends whom they had known before^
and to meet with so many new Mends whose acquaintance they
had been happy to make. He thanked the company for the
kind manner in which they had received the representatives from
the Contment, and assured them that the time had appeared to
take wings and fly away, so that, in the words of Shakespeare^
«< Pleasure and action make the hours seem short : you make
the July day short as December." (Applause). In conclusion,
he would express his very best thanks for the reception accorded
to himself and others, and, again borrowing the words of
^dSSfSSTfrSSsi!* MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. 579
Shakespeare, say, '* The best wishes that can be forged in
jour thoughts be servant to you." (Applanse).
Dr. Daks said he now proposed a new move, and in doing
80 he was about to appeal from the President. He was about to
propose the health of one gentleman present, and it might be
that the President would rule him out of order, and, therefore, he
would address himself directly to the company. He rose to pro-
pose the health, first, of one who was made known throughout the
Homoeopathic World by his works upon Materia Medica. When
he began that labour it was remarked by some who were a little
like Bip Van Winkle, that he was taking down the old books
irom the shelyes to throw dust in their eyes; nevertheless he
went forward, and in his efforts he had done much to dear away
the dust that had accumulated round many of those precious
names which they valued in connection with the practice of
iiomoBopathy, He begged to propose the health of one who was
now doing as much as any living man to give the homoeopaths a
Materia Medica and therapeutics of a reliable character and a
;high order, and in doing so he proposed the health of one whose
biain, and hand, and head had been, month after month and
year after year, preparing for this glorious occasion which they
had been enjoying in the City of London — (cheers) — one whom
the American delegation present had had the pleasure of
welcoming to their own shores, when he came into their midst
five years previously, — he referred to the distinguished and
honoured President of ** The World's Convention," Dr. Hughes.
{Loud applause.)
The toast met with an enthusiastic reception, and then
Dr. Da£e continued, saying that he was also going to appeal
from the Yice-President, and he would not permit that gentleman
to rule him out of order either. He would now propose the
health of another gentleman, one who had been a noble worker
in the arrangements for this Convention, a gentleman who was
v^ell known in the literature of the profession as one of the
brightest and most distinguished writers in the islands of Great
Britain and Ireland, viz.. Dr. Pope, the Yice-President of the
Convention. (Cheers).
This toast met with an equally cordial reception.
The Chaibicax in acknowledging the complunent said, gentle-
men, when two years ago I had the pleasure of presiding over a
meeting of our own men, and when they kindly drank my health
at the end of the banquet which closed our proceedings, I said
that since I had become one of those, known as homoeopathists,
I had set before me, as one great aim of my life, the resolve to
be useful to the cause I had embraced. I said that the honour
paid me on that occasion convinced me that my efforts had not
been altogether in vain, and that I was thankful for it. But let
680 MEETIK68 OF SOCIETIES. ^^SSSL^S??^
Berifcir, 8e|il. 1, U£l.
me say to ni^t, as pertinent to the present oecasion, that
perhaps the seeond aim I have set before me in the same sphere
has been to draw closer together and to cement the onion of
homcBopathists in all eonntries. I felt (and it is some years ago>
now) that we were not sufficiently known to one another, we did
not read one another's joomals sufficiently, or one another's books,
we did not visit one another's coontries sufficiently, and we, of the
British Jonmal of Homoeopathy, accordingly set to work some
time ago to present as fall an abstract as we could of all that was
interesting in the journals of other countries. Again, I sought to
plan how best we could visit one another, and accordin^y, when
the World's Convention of 1876 was announced, I decided to go
over and visit our American brethren, and since that time others
have visited them, and they have been invited to come here as
much as possible. Then, again, some of us went over to France
in 1878, and joined the Congress there, and so, bit by bit, in thia
way we have become known one to the other ; and this occasion,
I trust, will be the beginning of many more such gatherings,
which shall bring us face to face, hand to hand, mind to mind,
and heart to heart, so that, though our brethren of the pro-
fession at large will not admit us to their community, there shall
yet be a unity in which we can delight, in which we can bind
ourselves very close, and that shall be a union of homoeopaths*
(Cheers). I thank you, gentlemen, veiy much for the kind
appreciation you have shown, both in the meetings of the week
and again this evening, of such efforts as I have been able to put
forth for the success of this Convention, and my best reward for
anything I have done is that which is conveyed to my mind by
your plaudits, and the great success which I believe we all feel
we have attained. (Applause).
Dr. Pope also acknowledged the toast drank in his honour, an
honour which he said was entirely unexpected, and for the
cordial response to which he was proportionately unprepared;
but, he added, I thank you very much for the appreciation
shown of what littie I have been able to do to further the
interests of our meeting on this occasion — a meeting which I
trust will be fruitftd of good results, not only to homoeopathists
in England, but to homoeopathists in all parts of the world.
(Cheers). ''Union," gentiemen, '*is strength," and depend
npon it--a8 one of the Seven Bishops, addressing his colleagues
in misfortune in the Tower of London a couple of hundred yeais
ago, said — '* We must all hang together, for, if we do not, we
shall all hang separately." (dbeers).
The list of toasts being concluded, Dr. Moobb (Liverpool) pro-
posed the health of Dr. Hamilttm, Dr. Hilbers, and Mr. Cameron,
which, having been drunk, was acknowledged by each.
it^^SmS^ CORBESPONDENOB. 681
Bevfew, Sept. 1, 1881.
The Pbbbidbnt then proposed the health of the Treasurer
(Dr. Black) and the Secretaries (Dr. Gibbs Blake, Dr. Hay ward,
and Dr. Bomett), which was responded to by Dr. Hatward and
Dr. BuBNSTT, the latter adding that he had a toast of his own to
propose, which he was sure would be received with all heartiness.
Their American brethren liad most cordially honoured the toast
<of the Queen and Boyal Family (and might they live long to
teign over us), but he reminded them that on the other side of
the Atlantic there lay a man, who, although not a king, was
almost more than a king, for he was one of Nature's noblemen.
He, now, by the hand of a madman, was stretched upon a bed
of suffering, and he (Dr. Burnett) would ask the British members
especially, to drink to the speedy restoration to health of
General (rarfield. (Applause).
Dr. Bretfoolb (Louisville, Kentucky) next proposed the
British Homoeopathic Society, and the health of Dr. C. H.
BiiACELEY, Vice-President, who responded. The last toast was
that of ** Absent Friends," proposed by Dr. Dycb Bbown, which
having been appropriately honoured, the company separated.
00RRE8P0NDENCE.
To ihe Editon of the Monthly HonuBopathio Eevimo,
Gentlemen, — May I ask your kind insertion of enclosed letter
in next Review. It was forwarded to Dr. Hughes with a request
that it should be read at the International Convention. But by
some unfortunate oversight it was not so read.
It was my intention to have been present at the Convention,
and to have advocated the emancipation of medical teaching from
the present unworthy restrictions by which it has been and still
is possible for the dominant school to prevent the teaching of the
homoeopathic system in the only recognised schools.
I wished also to plead the cause of free feUotoship in science
over the whole civilised worid. A subject perfectly appropriate
for discussion before an International Convention. But my
health prevented my presence on that occasion, and the President
omitted (I believe by inadvertence) to read my short letter.
Hence I am compelled to trouble you with it, as ihe best means
of insuring its meeting the eyes of our brethren who, Hving out
of our htde Islands, are excluded from some of the rights of
physicians by what I cannot but consider our narrow insularity.
Yours truly,
William Bates, M.D.
88, Lansdowne Place, Brighton,
ll^i August, 1881.
682 OOBBESPOHPBNCE. '^Sg^fffMS:
To the President of ike Jntemational HomceopaMc Convention.
My Dear Dr. Hughes, — ^I wish to express throngh joa mj deep
r^et that I find myself nnable to be present at the Intemation^
Homoeopathic Convention, which will bring together so large a
nmnber of our colleagues from all parts of &e civilised world.
Nothing less than the plea of inability throngh ill-health would
have excused my absence from the Convention. I was most
anxious to have opened the discussion on Tuesday by a reference-
to the great opportunity presented to us by the Medical Acta
Conmiission (at present sitting at the House of Commons), pro-
vided something could be proposed by us which should tend to
break down the practical monopoly of teaching enjoyed by the
established medical schools. It seems to me we should go
beyond all lesser considerations, and ask for absolute freedom as.
to the acquirement of medical knowledge, so that there shall be
no monopoly of teaching placed in the hands of any body of men.
Monopolied corporations are certain sooner or later to use
their powers in a manner opposite to liberality, towards those
who'are placed under their power.
We have seen that the whole medical corporate bodies of fiiia
kingdom have, with one accord, suppressed the scientific teaching
of homcBopathy in any of the medical schools. The course of
conduct pursued by the medical corporations towards our science
and art of homoeopathy might as well be employed against any
other progressive devdopment of the curative art ; and therefore,
in demanding perfect freedom for the teaching of any theory or
practice of medicine or surgery, we are fighting the battle, not
only of homoeopathy, but of every branch of medical and surgical
science. I would advise that we should petition for the right of
teaching, by lectures or otherwise, of any branch of medicine or
surgery, by any physician or surgeon who holds legitimate
degrees or diplomas. In fact, I would place all private medical
or surgical schools on the same legal footing as the older institu-
tions of universities or schools.
The word doctor signifies teacher. Why allow such a title to
remain a dead letter ? Let each doctor have the inherent right
to teach, and let his teaching qualify any student whom he has.
taught to present himself to the examining body or bodies, and
give >>im a claim to be examined as to his fitness to receive a
diploma to practise. The present International Convention is &
proper body to appeal to as to the International recognition of
all medical teachmg within the foreign bodies recognised by the
State in which they reside.
Why should we deny a qualifying power to the teaching of
Paris, Berlin, Boston (U.S.)* Harvard, New York, Philadelphia,
&c., while we recognise as valid the teaching of Edinburgh,
Glasgow, St. Andrews, Aberdeen, Dublin, Galway, Durham, &c.f
SS^^TSw?* CORRESPONDENCE. SSS*
Competition with foreign schools and with clever private
medical schools wotdd tend to energise the teaching of the
universities of England, and to stimiilate the corporate medical
bodies to seek for new developments of medical and surgical
science, instead of (as at present) attempting to hinder aH
progress in new directions.
We must press then iot free trade in medical teaching , as the
only way to prevent iojury to the public weal by the opposition
io new developments and to new systems, which will always bo
brought forward by old corporations when they see their
monopoly of teaching threatened.
We must —
** Ring oat the false.
Ring in the true,"
by sounding the knell of medical monopoly of teaching.
Yours, very sincerely,
William Bates, M.D.
DR. BRISTOWE AND HOMOEOPATHY.
To the EdUon of the Monthly Homaopathic Beview.
Gentlemen, — ^I forwarded enclosed letter to Dr. Bristowe on
reading the report of his late address on medicine, at Ryde.
Yours very truly,
William Bates, M.D.
88, Lansdowne Place, Brighton.
12lA Atigust, 1881.
To J. S. Bristowe, Esq., MJ>.
Dear Sir, — I have read, with interest, the report of your*
Address on Medicine, delivered at the meeting of the British
Medical Association, at Ryde.
In your address, you speak of Hahnemann as having a ^* eupreme
contempt " for pathology.
I feel sure you have no desire to misrepresent either Hahne*
mann or his followers.
You will therefore pardon my reminding yon that your obser-
vations are wanting in exactness. Had you said " Hahnemann
had a supreme contempt for the pathology of his dayy^' you would
have given a just idea of the position Hahnemann and his
followers held. But you will also confess to holding much of the
pathology of Hahnemann's day (the end of last century and of
the earlier part of the present century) in almost as much
contempt yourself.
As to the value of *' similia similibus curantur " as a guide or*
indication for the selection of a remedy, the true question is not
quite accurately stated in the report of your speech. Noft only
do homoeopaths take the '* groups of symptoms " as their indica-
tion for selection of a remedy for disease, but they avail them-
584 CORRBBPONDENTS. ^B^f^TS
selves of the pathological signs also. If they find a medicine
which can produce similar pathological signs as well as similar
sabjectiye symptoms, snch a medicine wonld be preferential^
ehosen as the remedy. I venture to say that those physicians
who at the present day are followers of Hahnemann's rule or
law do not value pathological indications less than do those who
oppose it. I was told some years since by the agent who can-
vassed for the sale of Eiemssen's Cyclopadia that the sale to
homoBopaths far outnumbered that to allopaths (proportionately).
For myself, I can only bear my very strong testimony to the hat
greater efficacy at a msans of cure of medicines given from their
careful homoeopathic selection, when administered in a sufficiently
minute dose to insure against their inducing over-stimulation odf
the tract on which they exert their specific action.
I have a right to speak with authority on this point, having
for the first thirteen years of my practice used the ordinary allo-
pathic remedies, and for the last twenty-five years have adopted
and practised the homoeopathic, both in public and private
practice. Allow me to give you John Hunter's advice, *' Don't
think, but try" ThanHng you for much courteous expression
in your address.
Believe me, yours very sincerely,
William Batbs, M.D.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
^% We cannot undertake to return r^ecied manuMcrifU.
GontribatoTS and OoireBpondentB are requested to notioe the alteraikn
in the addreaa of one of the Editors of this Review.
We zegret that want of spaoe obliges ns to defer the report of the
Hahnemann Pablisfaing Society, and also Dr. Bbbbidob's paper on
'* Hydrophobinum."
Commnnieations, Aw., have been received from Dr. Batbs (Briffhton) i
Dr. A. 0. GuvTOR (Northampton); Dr. EauKSBT (Blaekheath) ; Dt.
BEBRn>OB (London) ; JDr. ELltwabd (Liverpool) ; Dr. Maddbn (Biimisg-
ham) ; Mr. Pottaoe (Edinburgh) ; Dr. Ghattebton (Ghioago).
BOOKS RECEIVED.
Practical Biology , dke. By Edward Haughton, B.A., M.D. London:
Wade & Go. — The Honueofothic Ouide for Family Uee, By Dr. Laoxk,
edited, Ae.t by Dr. Guttendge. 86th edition. London : Leath & Boas.
— Thirty-fint Annual Report of the London Homceapatkie Hospital. — Tke
Annate of the Britieh Homoupathic Society. — The Homaopathie World.
— The StudenU* JownaL—The Chemiet and BruggieU-^The New York
Medical Timee. — The Medical Advance. — BiHiothique HomcMpathique.—
El Criterio Medico. — Boletino Clinieo del Institute Homoeopatico di
Madrid. — La Reforma Medica. — Mexico. Rivista OmicpaHea.
Papers, Dispensary Beports, and Books for BeTiew to be sent to
Dr. PopB, 21, Henrietta Street, Gavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D, Drea
Bbowv, 29, Seymour Street, Portman Square, W. Advertisements and
Business Gommunications to be sent to Messrs. B. Qould ds Batf
69, Moorgate Street, E.G.
M^^mTSS^ sotool » homcbopathy, 089
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW.
THE LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMCEOPATHY.
On the 4th of this months the London School of HomoaO'
pathy enters on its fifth session, the Hahnemann oration
being delivered by Dr. Bichabd Hughes on that day. We
feel sure that the oration will be a masterly onoi and forza
a fitting opening for the new session, and we trust the
attendance on this day wiU be a large one.
The fact, however, that this is the commencement of thp
fifth session of the School involves considerations of special
interest. The School, as originally cpnstitnted, was more
or less of an experiment, and it was resolved that its
present constitution should last for five years, the sub-
scriptions being also, most of them, for this limited period..
This limit will have been reached at the end of the session
which is now about to commence, and those interested in
the progress of homoeopathy are beginning to consider what
ought to be the course pursued for the future.
Whether the School has been a success or not is a dis-
puted point. Those who look for great things, for what
is impossible in the nature of things, and firom the feeling
which at present exists in the minds of our opponents of
the old-school, consider that the School is a BEdlora, on the
No. 10, Vol. 25. 3 Q
586 SCHOOL OP HOHCEOPATHT. "^ eSSiJ^S!mw^
' » ___^ . ^ ^ .
gronnd that the average regular attendance has not exceeded
seven.
Those, again, who cahnly consider what we ought to
expect, and what we cannot at present look for, are satisfied
that in present circumstances the School has had such a
measure of success as to justify, naj, demand its con-
tinuance in some form. Those who take this view, do so
remembering the difficulties which have to be met m
carrying the war into the enemy's camp, in acting on the
ofTensive instead of simply on the defensive, and weighing
the antagonistic influences at work, are content to reckon
iheir success by comparative tests.
The first great difficulty in the way of getting many
istudents to attend the lectures is that the study of homoeo-
pathy is not included in the curriculum which a student
must go through in order to qualify, and as these subjects
are becoming more numerous, and the amount of study to
ensure success requires to be greater in proportion than
formerly, only those who are very hard workers, and are
already interested in acquiring a knowledge of homoeopathy,
can be expected to attend our lectures and hospital practice.
Secondly, of this limited number, many are not unnatn-
rally afraid of being known as having even a leaning to
homoeopathy, in case of this possibly influencing the resolt
of their examinations. Those, therefore, who come to our
School during their student course must be few.
Thirdly, after students have qualified, comparatively few
can afTord the time or money required to enable them to
spend another year in London. This class, then, most
likewise be limited.
Lastly, we have the practitioner, but of these few can
manage to get away from practice for anything like legolar
attendance at hoefpital practice or lectures.
IKSJfSLMS?^ SiJHOOL OP HOMCEOPATHY. 687
It seems to ns, then, that imtil the time comes when the
fitndent finds that it is really necessary for him to enter a
practice with a good knowledge of homoeopathy, and until the
feeling in the old School is so modified that attendance at
liomoeopathic lectures is a piece of training which a student
need not keep his thumb upon, we must not expect to have
other than small classes. But, however small the class, the
School must be kept up. At no time in the history of
homoeopathy in this country, has such attention been drawn
to it. We find text-books full of homoeopathy reckoned
and used as standard works ; we find the use of homodo-
pathic medicines by those still in the old school ranks
daily increasing ; pieces of practice which ten years ago
were laughed at, are now considered en regie ; leading
'Chemists are advertising many of the homoeopathic remedies,
** as recommended by Dr. Phillips '* ! the allopathic
Journals are full of discussions as to the propriety of meet-
ing homoeopaths in consultation; these journals show a
much greater knot\rledge of what homoeopathy is than they
did a couple of years ago ; while introductory addresses at
the annual meeting of the British Medical Association
clearly shows what a hold the subject of homoeopathy is
taking on the allopathic mind, and this in spite of every
effort hitherto used to crush it, by silence, misrepresenta-
tion, abuse, and ridicule.
Surely, at such a juncture there ought not to be a single
man in our own ranks who does not see the necessity of
supporting and encouraging by every means in his power
the efforts made to keep a School of Homoeopathy alive,
'even though the School may not be carried on precisely on
the lines that certain of our friends would wish. In
view of the importance of any systematic course of
instruction in homoeopathy, however imperfect in com-
pleteness it may be, and as at the present time it behoves
2 Q— 2
683 SCHOOL OP HOMCBOPATHY. *a^?g5fggS?
^ ■ - "
all to sink diflferences of opinion as to detail^ and to unite
to make the best of our materials and opportunitieBy
qiiasi-friendliness is often worse than open opposiiton, and
we trust that during the new lease of life which the School
is about to obtain, every one will do his utmost to aid the
great cause by unflinching support.
The sub-committee appointed in the beginning of the
present year to consider the best course for the future,
submitted their report to the general meeting in April.
In that report, the discontinuance of the systematic course
of lectures on Practice of Medicine was suggested, and the
substitution for it of two courses of clinical lecturas.
Hitherto, the clinical instruction at the Hospital has been
informal, the physician expounding extempore at the bed-
side the details of the case, with the meaning of the treat-
ment employed. Instead of this, or rather, to make thi*
more complete, it was proposed that a formal clinical lecture
should be given once a week, based on the cases at that
time in the wards ; that two such courses given by two of
the physicians should be made as fully usefiil as possible
by some re-arrangement of the number of beds under the
care of the three In-patient physicians ; and that the School
should be drawn more closely to the Hospital by an altera-
tion in the Executive. The lectureship on Materia Medica
and Therapeutics was to remain undisturbed.
These changes were evidently not unanimously supported
at the April general meeting, and since then, the sub-
committee which was re-appointed to consider the matter
further, have found that the feeling was by no means so
unanimous in favour of their first proposals as would
justify them in offering again the report as it then stood*
What the sub-committee now recommend may be seen
fully in the communication from the Hon. Secretatji
Dr. Bayes, in another part of this Review, and we draw
fejr^TSau^ SCHOOL OF HOMOEOPATHY. 689
attention to it, so that fhll opportunity should be given for
its consideration before the day of meeting. It will be
seen by this report, that the sub-committee still recommend
that the lectureship on Materia Medica and Therapeutics
should be left intact. They likewise adhere to their
suggestion, that a formal clinical lectureship should be
instituted, a lecture being given, say once a week, during
the winter session. But they now advise the maintenance
AS before, of the lectureship on Practice of Medicine. This
advice is given, as it was deemed by some who are much
interested in the success of the School and its ultimate
position as an educational institution, that to abandon the
systematic course of Practice of Medicine would be a retro-
grade step, and that the School would lose in position and
importance thereby. It is also thought that while students
should have the opportunity of as perfect clinical teaching
as possible, they ought not to be deprived of the chance of
obtaining likewise instruction in homoeopathy in a syste*
xnatio manner, and thus going over the whole field of
^sease. The sub-committee thus advise the addition to
(he present systematic courses of a fomial clinical lecture-
.ship, instead of its substitution for one of the existing
courses. The continuance also of the summer course on
the Principles of Homoeopathy, as given this year by
Pr. Hughes, and also of the Hahnemannian Lecture, is
also advised. Lastly, they suggest that as soon as cir-
cumstances will permit, other courses of lectures be insti-
tuted. The aim, in fact, is to extend, not to limit the
operations of the SchooL We trust that a full attendance
of Governors will be found when the report embodying
these proposals will be laid before the general meeting this
imonth. An alteration also in the Executive of the School
IB also proposed, but the detail of this plan, which will b6
Ibund on another page, we do not enter into.
690 SOIENTIFIO MEWOINE, "^SSJ?oS??waL
We trust that a wider interest than ever will be elicited
in the affairs of the School, that subscriptions will be
renewed, that all who are acquainted with students or
their friends will do their best to induce them to attend
the School, that they may learn what will one day be &
sine qua non in the education of eyery medical man, and
without a knowledge of which he will find himself at a dis-
count in the eye of the public and also of the profession.
Magna est Veritas et prevalebit, and happy are those who
feel that they are doing their utmost, however small, to
advance the spread of the knowledge of the greatest truth
in medicine Qver discovered. Let everyone feel with the
poet, that '' the aim, if reached or not, makes great the
life."
A SEAUCH AFTER " SCIENTIFIC MEDICINE."
By TH01CA.S Hatlb, M.D., Bochdale.
The art of medicine is imder great obligations to
homoeopathy. The discovery that the curative power
of medicines is due to their power to disorder or derange^
the actions of the system, and that from the latter you can
infer the former, was a great step. The power of prediction
and verification sets the seal of truth on an hypothesis,
and elevates it into a theory. But your prediction mighi
be a guess, your verification an accident. Your law might
be a truth, but how to apply it ? How about certainty as
to your similar, and how about your dose? You have
evidence of the reality of your law; your cures are too
numerous to be coincidences ; but if you come to particular
instances, where are you? overwhelmed in the darkest
doubt. You cannot tell a sceptic what to expect. You
eannot predict eclipses; that is when the symptoms
of the disease will be extinguished by that of the medicine.
Until you can predict eclipses, your system is not a science ;
it is not deductive ; it is empirical, founded on observation;
it is true, and thus far in advance of the *' scientific
medicine " boasted of by your College of Physicians, still
in their sins ; but you can see the dawn far in advance ot
nS^l^oSHi^S^^ SOUfiNTIVIG MEDicuns* 591^
- -
you when the trae sun of science will rise to gladden the,
eyes of the watchers for truth. The reason of these
uncertainties lies in the tact that your law is an empirical
law — one founded in ei^rience and experience alone.
There are cases in which you are able to predict, as for
instance, the lowering of tiie pulse in certain cases of
fever from the action of aconite, and in a great variety of ^
dose ; but in many cases of chronic disease you are no '
wiser than the College of Physicians, quite as much at
sea, and quite as innocent of the power of prediction.
Your attempts to find a simile is in one school overloaded ^
by a number of minutias which may be accidental, while'
another, of which Dr. Hughes is the able exponent, in the
endeavour to separate the essential from the unimportant
and accidental, often leaves us with insufficient guidance. \
The question of the dose^ also, is in a very unsatisfactory '
state. On the one hand you have the millionth attenuation,
on the other, the crude material — ^both professing to be
guided by pure experience. Now, if we had a deductive
law founded in the properties of the nervous system, we
should escape from all these confasions. In the first
place, we should see why a homceopathic law existed, and
be able to explain the necessity of its existence. An agent
in a large dose comes down the nervous tract, which it is
fitted by nature to influence, like a tornado, and destroys
the harmony of the scene : nausea, vomiting, colic, and
diarrhoea wiUi cramps, take the place pf the natmral feelings.
On the other hand, an attenuation, dififering in degree
according to circumstances, acts upon this disturbance
when it arises from another cause, and causes all this
disorder to cease, sometimes as by magic. I am not sure
whether it will not act with the same efiect when the
disorder arises from the same cause. I was once called in *
to a case of dysentery, tenesmus recurring every five
minutes. The patient was under the influence of mere,
cor. 8. The case was Dr. Pybum's, and I recommended a
higher attenuation of the same medicine. The result was
marvellous. All disturbance ceased, and a complete cure
was the result. Only one dose was given. Now, on the [
same principle that Hahnemann argued from his one.'
instance of similarity to the law of homoeopathy, if this is
a trustworthy observation, and I have Dr. Pybum's and the '
woman's word for it, it is probable that this law pervades
all medicinal action. The small dose always counteracts
B92 SCIENTIFIC MEDICINE. "'T^^oS'jSn!
the action of a large dose. This is what Dr. Sharp and a
large school of homceopathists assert, hut they assert also
that the zephyr overcomes the tornado, a proposition which
appears to me monstroos. The doctrine is, you select
yonr medicine by the law of similars, bnt yon nse it as an
antipathic agent by the law of contraria contrarii^, because
every medicine in a small dose acts in an opposite way to
the medicine in a large dose. Now, this is meeting the
tornado with a zephyr, and we know what happens when
that takes place. The less has no chance with the greater.
On the other hand, upon the theory I have suggested,
when a mnch smaller dose is given a set of vibrations in
the direction of health are set np ; everything abnormal is
done away with, and the result is health. This result is
countenanced by many observations. When Sir W. Arm-
strong, in his first series of lectures delivered in Newcastle*
6h-Tyne, on the hydro-electric machine, stated that he
could change the electric current generated by the friction
of steam against a metal tube at will, by the addition of
small quantities of turpentine or salts, &om positive to
negative, he asserted, it seems to me, a similar sequence
of facts. The properties of electricity also present us with
positive and negative states of opposite qualities. The
attenuations iseem to share in this quality. They develop
different states from those which the crude drug pro-
duces. Their influence running down a nerve disordered
by the crude medicine supersedes its action, whether
by a property due to its attenuated state or by some
property inherent in medicinal action. Medicinal action is
probably closely allied to nervous action, for it acts on it
without a special apparatus, unlike the air in the production
of hearing. It seems to be like the nervous fluid in being
able to act on the same parts, sometimes deranging them,
sometimes when deranged restoring them to healthy action.
Whether this be done by opposite or merely different actions,
I submit requires further investigation. They are actions
that proceed down the same nervous tube, and they proceed
down it in the same direction. It is not a question of
opposing forces going in opposite directions. We know
this to be contrary to the fact. In a great many cases they
enter into the system in the same way. Besides, in such
a case the weaker force would always go to the wall. The
tornado would always overcome the zephyr. Now the
attenuated force is obviously the weaker, for it only acts
BSS^iST!^?^ ^AtHOiiOGY AKD THERAPEUTICS. 59^
nnder conditions^ The crude material acts unconditionally,
and yet the attenuated force acts upon the organism so aa
to modify its actions and recall them to a state of health,
sometimes in a very maryellous way. It has little or no
power to act when the parts are jbi a state of Jiealth ; but
when they are morbidly excited in a peculiar way then it
€omes down and acts with magical power. The quality of
the power comes into play and not its quantity. Here we
have an explanation of the mode in which our infinitesimals
act, or rather of the possibility of their action. They enter
into the realm of fluids which are inconceivably attenuated,
fiomewhat akin to electricity. They have been eliminated
from the bodies in which they dwell, and exercise a free
power. The &ct has been too often avouched to be dis-
puted. Every homceopath knows, however he is unable to
explain, the action of these small doses. The fact is so
incredible that sometimes he is driven to deny it, or at any
rate to explain it away. It is not, be it remembered, the
opposite shock of opposed forces, where the result is in
favour of the lesser. It is the modifying influence of two
forces travelling the ^ame road and extinguishing each
other by negative and positive action, like two currents of
opposite electricities. The advantages then of raising the
empirical law of homceopathy into the deductive rank are
manifold. From the properties of the nervous system and
of medicinal action you can reason out the necessity and
conditions of the law. You can appreciate its limits ; by
an exact knowledge of drug action you can predict results
in a given case ; you can show the necessity of small doses ;
and all need for an apologetic attitude will be over. Scien-
tific medicine will be a fact, and unfounded claims to its
possession will meet with their due reward.
THE RELATION OF PATHOLOGY TO THERA-
PEUTICS.*
By G. T. Campbell, M.D., London, Ontario.
To say that a necessaiy pre-requisite to scientific thera-
peutics is a knowledge of the cause and character of disease
may sound like a truism. And yet, our inexact modes of
4^xpres8ion have given rise to the opinion that many of our
* Beprinted from tlie Atmriean OUerver,
594 PATHOLOGY ASD TBBRASKUTICS.
echool consider a knowledge of pathology a seeondaiy aflbir
—that to ibem it is immatenal what the caose of the
disease may he, or what its character may be, so long as
they recognise the external symptoms it prodooes. I say
this opinion is doe to a lack of exactness and harmony in
onr forms of expression ; for there is no donbt that onr
physicians are practically agreed as to the tme Tslne of
pathology, and that they utilise the knowledge gained
therefrom. But for the consideration of any who may
really be disposed to ignore pathology, and for the benefit
of those who assrmie that onr school does so ignore it, I
purpose submitting a few ideas as to what I conceiye to be
the true relation between pathology and therapeutics.
Diseases we can only know by their symptoms. But
what are symptoms ? and
WHAT ABE DISEASES?
A person hAs a high pulse, a hot skin, a pain in his ch6st>
a cough and a rusty expectoration. Do these constitute
the disease ? No ; they are only symptoms. His lung is
hypersemic from active congestion, and the air cells are
filling up with coagulable matter; there is a condition
existing called acute pneumonitis. Is that disease ? No ;
these are only symptoms. Where and what, then, is the
disease ? It must be sought in the ultimate structure, the
cell. There is an abnormal action of the cell wall ; there
is derangement of its attractive and selective power, and
from this follow the results of the disease : inflammation,
exudation, pain, cough, rusty sputa, all of which are only
symptoms. Disease, then, is
AN ABNORMAL STATE OF ULTHIATE STEUOTUBE,
which we are, as yet, able to recognise only through its
symptoms, just as we can only recognise fire by its signs
and effects. In rude classification, there are symptoms
which may be called external, and those which may be
called internal. We may call those external which are
patent to the senses — ^which the physician can see and the
patient can feel. Among intemsd symptoms, we may class
those secondary pathological conditions affecting tissues,
such as inflammation, ulceration, exudation, &c. Some of
these internal symptoms can be recognised during life by
the skilled diagnostician ; some can only be detected by a
post mortem search ; while there are cases of grave nervous
IK^oSTSSttl*' PATHOLOGY AND THERAPSUTJOS* 69d
disorder in which no iatemal symptoma can be found ; no
neeondary pathological state; no connecting link between,
the disease and its external signs.
SOIENTIFIO THEBAPEimOS
requires a knowledge of all symptoms, whether external or
internal^ subjective or objective, abnormal structure, abuor*-
mal function, abnormal sensation. External symptoms
alone will not suffice ; attention to aches and pains, aggra-
vations and ameliorations, times and localities, is not
enough ; nor should we be content with an investigation
into what we term pathological changes. We require the
"totality of the symptoms,"
as Hahnemann termed it, and nothing less.
Anything short of this, is but guess-work. For example,
take the following external symptoms: Quick pulse, in-
ooreased temperature, dyspnoea, stitches, as with a knife in
right side of chest, soreness in chest, cough ; mucus sputa,
with streaks of blood. These are among the external
qnnptoms of pneumonia ; and these are symptoms of borax-
But how many cases of pneumonia have been cured by
lorax i The article has not the internal as well as the
external symptoms of pneumonia, and therefore is not
therapeutically correlated to that disease, although a super-
ficial observer might think so. Or, for another example,
take the action of a corrosive poison. The brown stains on
the lips and mouth, the vomiting of shreds of disorganised
mucus, and of coffee- ground-looking substances, are symp-
toms of the chemical effect of BuLph. ac, but he would be
very unwise who would attempt to cure with 9ul/ph, ac., a
diseased state in which he found these signs, for he would
not be regarding the totality of the symptoms — ^those which
are produced by the drug when diluted, and which are not-
dependent on chemical action.
It is the boast of many practitioners of our school that
they place the most implicit confidence in the doctrines and
INSTBUCTIOKS OF HAHNEMANN.
Let us enquire, therefore, what were the views of this great
teacher of medicine on this point. *' The physician must
avail himself of all the particulars he can learn, both respect-
ing the probable origin of the acute malady and the most
significant points in the history of the chronic disease, to^
if96 PATHOLOaY AKD THBRAPEUTIC8. ''l^i^SLif^.
aid him in the discovery of their fundamental cause."
Organon, Sec. 6. Sections 206, 207, 208, 209 of the
Organon point ont the necessity for an elaborate search as
to the cause of the complaint, as to any preyioas treatment,
as to habits, as to occupation, regimen, &c., in tiauct to
everything connected with the patient which may contribute
towards ^* a perfect image of the disease '* — the tout ensemble
of the symptoms.
'' The first duty of the physician who appreciates the
dignity of his character and the value of human life is to
inquire into the whole condition of the patient, the cause
of the disease," &c. — Chronic Diseases, p. 162.
The necessity of attention to the cause in the treatment
of disease is especially pointed out, as in note to Sec. 7,
Organon, **It is taken for granted that every in-
telligent physician will commence by removing this causa
occasioncdisJ'^ — Chronic diseases, he tells ns in section
204, ought to be treated by remedies appropriate to their
originating miasm. On this subject, in the work on
Chronic Diseases (p. 166), he speaks of a number of
'accidents which may interfere wifli treatment, and t^IIs
how these accidents are to be met, not according to
symptoms, but to the cause. " Immoderate eating — the
effects of which may be remedied by taking thin broth and
a little coff. ; derangement of stomach from eating ftt
meat, fasting and puis, ; coldness of stomach, consequent
upon eating fruit, arsen. ; consequence of using spirituous
drinks, nux ; results of fright, op. ; chagrin and fright
combined, aeon, ; contusions and wounds from blunt sub-
stances, am. ; weakness from loss of blood and other
fluids, china**
He also impresses upon us the fact that the physical
symptoms are not a sufficient indication of the remedy
unless the mental condition corresponds. As, for example,
when he points out that aeon, seldom or never effects a
permanent cure when the temper of the patient is quiet
and even ; or nux when the disposition is mild and phleg-
matic ; or pals* when it is lively, serene, or obstinate.—
Note to Sec. 218, Organon,
But why go into details ? Hahnemann's whole theoiy
of chronic diseases involves this principle of treating the
CBxise of the disease as well as the symptoms.
He takes care to assure ns that, before his psoric thec^y
was developed, the treatment of many chronic diseases by
jSBS^S?^^?^ pathowgy and thbbapbutics. ^T;
himsalf and his disciplea '^ was carried ou b; those drags,
the pathogenetic effects of which upon the health system^
corresponded most accurately to the existing symptoms^,
and had power to remove them for a time > * * * and
in this way a sort of cure was effected." But the remedies,
were insufficient for a complete cure, despite the similarity
of the symptoms ; not being anti-psoric8."-7-Note to p. 15,
Chronic Diseases.
Other medicines, even when chosen in accordance with,
the similarity of their symptoms to those of the disease,
do not heal the abore-mentioned chronic diseases as
thoroughly and permanently as the so-called anti-psories.
-^Note to p. 166. The medicine suitable for a psoria
intermittent differs from that for one in which there is no
psoric taint. — Sec- 262, Organon.
In psoric diseases we are told to ** cure first the internal
psoric disease, upon the principle cessante causa, cessat
pectus."— Page 127.
For those chronic affections originating in syphilis, it
will be noticed that he finds all the indications met by a
Tory few remedies, chiefiy mere, ; while those from sycosis
always and only require thuja.
I haye quoted thus largely in order to give full effect to
the author?l7 of HahnetnaL^on this subjeS. And yet we
may have heard of a few practitioners claimmg to be
HAHNEUANKUNS PAB BXOBLIiENOE,
who assure us that the study of etiology is unimportant.
Such men, Hahnemann tells us, are not intelligent, and
do not appreciate the dignity of their calling. It is
noticeable, however, that they practically contradict them-
selves when they prescribe am, in chronic disease following
ixyuries, even though no particular symptoms of that drug
be present; or mere, when there is a syphilitic taint; or
thuja in diseases of sycotic origin.
That there are cases where the simple external symp*
toms indicate the remedy is true. But when called to
treat a disease, we cannot be certain that the external
symptoms present the necessary tfmt ensemble xmtil we
have thoroughly examined the case, after the manner of
Hahnemann. Consequently it follows that every case
should be so examined, and that, without a perfect com-
prehension of the entire pathological condition, scientific
therapeutics is an impossibility.
098 CLINICAL OB8BBYATION8.
Beffew, OeL 1, im.
The relation of pathology to therapentlbs can only be
^fined by a correct nse of words. If, when we speak of
pathological conditions, we refer only to internal fonctional
and structural abnormalities, then pathology is neither
more or less serviceable to therapeutics than what is
loosely termed symptomatology. But if we take it as
picturing the totality of the symptoms — external and
internal cause and course of disease — ^then
PATHOIiOaY IS INBISPENSABLE TO THEBAFBUTICS.
The physician who confines his investigation to the mere
external characteristics of the disease is as far from a
scientific therapy as he who looks only for oi^^anic changes.
To dull the sensitive nerve with narcotics, to open the con-
stipated bowel with cathartics, to moisten the parched skin
with diaphoretics — ^this is but symptom treatment, and at
best can only be palliatiye. Curative treatment goes
farther back to the^bfu et origo mali, and gives the remedy,
whose primary action on the cell vmll, as indicated by the
train of symptoms it produces on the healthy structure,
corresponds with the disease for which a cure is sought.
CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS.*
A RADICAL CURE WITH KALI BICHROMICUM.
Bt Db. Pboell, of Nice and Oastein.
(Translated hy B. Lilibnthal, M.p., from AUgemeine HomSopaikuehe
Ziitung^
A NoRTHEBN lady, twenty-six years old, was sent by her
physician to Nice on account of her throat and chest
affections. At a preceding consultation a high authority
on physical diagnosis had said : '^ Whether she goes south
or not consumption will soon finish her." The patient
heard of it, and was therefore the more determined to try
Nice. From her father she inherited excessive nervosity,
anxiety at the least ailment, irritability, and tendency to
spasm, and was of a tearful disposition. As soon as she
caught cold, and this happened frequently, coiyza and
cough troubled her for a long time. Several years ago she
suffered from a severe acute gastric and intestinal catarrh
with ulcerations, for which she took very large doses of
nitrate of ailver. This ulcerative intestinal catarrh left
* Bepiinted from the Haknemannian Monthly.
SSS^oTirSS^ CLINICAL OBSEBVATIONS. 599
lier with a great sensitiyeness in the rectum and obstinate
transient rheumatio pains, also a dangerous affection of
throat and chest.
The patient is a blonde, smaQ figure, steel-gray eyes,
ozygenoid constitution; of gracile, but not phthisicky
habit; hce slightly flushed; nasal mucous membrane
irritable, either dry or secretes copiously a yellow mucus ;
eyes now healthy, often catarrh in the comers ; teeth all
destroyed (mercurial sequela), so that she wears artificial
teeth ; tongue clear at the tip, which is covered with red
points, the root of it covered with a thick yellow coating ;
mostly great dryness of the mouth, alternating with
salivation ; gums livid ; mucous membrane of posterior
fiances and pharynx covered with red granulations,
interlaced with white streaks and reaching down to the
cesophagus. These white lines alternate with red ones
(strongly injected bloodvessels). A troublesome sensation
of constant irritation, as from a foreign body in throat,
sometimes severe burning and scratching ; tonsils and soft
palate somewhat reddened; taste sour, often metallic;
appetite good ; great thirst, drinks black tea thrice a day ;
stomach bloated, with sensitiveness', ftdness, and pressure ;
Tomits sometimes ; liver and spleen normal, the region of
fhe rectum sensitive to pressure ; urine very acid ; stool
mostly very hard and defecation difficult (water injections
cause pains and spasms, probably unabsorbed exudations
from the time of ulcerations) ; dysmenorrhcea ; pulse and
skin normal. But the second principal seat of msease, or
rather its localisation, appeal^ to be the right upper
(anterior and posterior) part of the chest, where percussion
gave a dull sound, especially below the right clavicle. In
the apex of the right lung weak rattling murmurs ; the
same sjnnptoms on the left side, only weaker; cough
mostly dry, but troublesome, especially in the morning
after dressing and late in the evening; sometimes thick,
iongh, white expectoration ; sensation of heat and titilla-
tion in the larynx before coughing, making her restless
and impatient.
Three months in Nice did not improve her much, though
she took the full diet and was very careful not to expose
herself unnecessarily. As the climate alone had failed to
be of much benefit it was necessaiy to try other means,
and as I considered the chief focus of her disease to be the
abdominal mucous membranes, her diet was more re-
000 CLINICAL 0B8EBYATI0HS. ^'^mSS,
• ObLU
rtiicted; all alcoholic bereiagea were forbidden, die was
adyised to take nonrifihineiit more frequently but less sfc
oncey and to five especially on eggs and milk, some bread
and bntter, and once a day rare meat. To qoiet her
nenrona irritability and tendency to spasms she todc
ignatiay fifth centesimal diliition, three times a day thll^e
drops, with good effect. Our radical remedy was kaH
Ucnromicum, fifth cent., three times daily (fiye drops in
100 grammes distilled water), ereiy three honrs half a tea-
spoonfdl). After two weeks slow and steady amelioration
the tongne cleared np, the granulations in the throat
diminished as well as tiie rhenma ; features brighter, only
the congh would not cease, though she took the tenth and
thirtieth potency for three weeks. A more thorough
examination revealed an old habit of hers, to sponge her
chest with cold water ereiy morning, and then to rob
hard in order to bring on a reaction. I forbade this
reactionaiy process on account of ubi irritate ibi €idjbijcns.
She kept on taking twice a day the thirtieth potency of
kali bichromicum, and the cough left her and she returned
hale and hearty to her Northern climate.
NOTS BY DB. LIUENTHAL.
January 6th, 1880. — ^A strong, hearty Irishman^ of about
thirty, came to the clinic and reported that during the
day he is able to work and enjoys his breakfast and lunch,
hut for the last three years he has a complaint for which
he has taken a great many remedies without any benefit
whatever. He takes his dinner at 6 p.ii., and about three
hours afterwards he is seized with waterbraah, raises phl^m
continually, vomits whatever food remains in the stomach,
and rarely sleeps before midnight, as the phlegm chokes
him; has cough, bowels rather constipated, stools hard
and passed with some exertion. I had just read the case
of Dr. Proell, and studied afresh this remedy. He
received twelve powders kali bickromicum, thirtieth, with
directions to take a powder morning and evening and
report.
January 12th. — ^He reports alleviation the first night»
and constant and steady improvement since. He can
sleep immediately on lying down, and begs for some mxM
powders in case the trouhle should return. Twelve
powders kali bichromicum, thirtieth, were given with orders
to take a powder every second or third night, according to
necessity.
¥S^Jo^T^ HTOROPHOBINUM. 601
HYDROPHOBINUM.
By E. W. Bebridoe, M.D.
(!)• Provincial Medical and Surgical Journal. yol.i.9p.l34*
By Mr. P. Bennett Lucas.
Case of a Newfoundland dog.
The dog exhibited a heavy, dull expression, restless, walking
continually as far ad his chain would permit ; it would raise
its head in an unconscious manner when spoken to, and
when not roused it would keep it prone to the ground. It
was every now and then gnawing, not snapping, at the
straw^ wood, earth, &c., by which it was surrounded ; it
had a sullen appearance, and was perambulating its confines
like the carnivorous animals in a menagerie.
Post mortem. The lining mucous membrane of the
tongue and mouth was dry ; that part of it covering the
fauces was highly vascular. The papill® of the tongue
were prominent, particidarly at the base of the organ. The
pharynx was slightly vascular, the cesophagus pale^ the
stomach very vascular all through; the duodenum and
large intestines were also very vascular. The gall-bladder
was distended with bright yellow bile. The nares were-
highly inflamed, and beneath their mucous lining mem-
brane blood was extravasated in four or fiye places, in
patches. The mucous membrane of the cartilages of the
larynx, particularly of the arytenoid cartilages, was highly
vascular ; below the cricoid cartilage the mucous membrane
abruptly assumed its natural appearance, and continued so
to the bifurcation of the trachea, where it again became
intensely red, and continued in this condition into the
bronchial tubes and their ramifications. The lungs were
highly congested. The interior of the right kidney pre*
sented no traces of organisation, but contained a dark
grumous fluid; the left was healthy. The bladder was
firmly contracted, and did not contain a drop of urine.
Both testicles were distended with semen, and their ex-
cretory ducts were beautifully convoluted and distended
with semen. The pia mater of brain and cord was very
vascular. The ventricles of brain contained a table-spoonful
of serum. There was extravasation of blood beneath the
right conjxmctiva. The left conjunctiva was one sheet of red
from vascularity, without any extravasation. The stomach,
contained straw, chips of wood, dog's meat and earth."^ AL
No. 10, YoL 25. 2 b
• (
602 HYDBOPHOBINUM. ^'tS&^oSTSS.
dark tarry substance adhered to the dnodennm and to the
upper part of the jejannm ; tiie flenm was empty ; the colon
and rectom were filled with a tarry snbstance similar to
that found in the small intestines.
Ca^eofa boy.
Post mortem. Intense* of the mucous membrane cover-
ing the rima glottidis and upper extremity of the larynx, and
also at the bifurcation of ^e trachea ; the portion of the
trachea between these two points being perfectly healthy.
The stomach was very vascular. The urinary bladder was
intensely contracted.
(2) . Provindci Medical and Surgical Journal, YoL i., p. 44.
M. Breschat's report, read before the Academy of Sciences,
Paris, September 21st.
A dog inoculated with the poison was seized with furious
rabies on the S8th day. In general it appears from the
20th to 80th day after the bite, but sometimes after three
months. In a few cases aversion to water is absent. An
electric current passed through the wound of inoculation by
means of a metallic wire connected unih one pole of a
galvanic pile in a/ction, the other end of the wire being ui
contact with some other part of the animal^ dissipates aU
the symptoms.
[Apparently &om the report this occurred in birds, in
wmch death followed inoculation without the usual symp-
toms of rabies. The experiment was first performed by
M. Pravaz.— E. W. B.l
The post mortem appearances are as follows : The isthmus
of the throat, the velum palati, the pharynx and oesophagus,
were sometimes found of a rosaceous tint, but more often
of an intense red, bordering on violet. A irot)iy secretion,
similar to that of the respiratory organs, covered aU these
surfiices, and descended to the origin of the (Bsophagus.
The distension of the capillary vessels of the lungs widi
black blood was very marked. The vascular network of the
pia mater, of the circumference of the brain, of the inter-
lobular intervals, has been frequently found injected. The
cellular tissue of the pia mater has been found distended
with a sero-gelatiniform matter, chiefly over the course of
the principal arteries. The lungs are always more or less
[* Note. — ^A wozd is here omitted in my MS. which I am at preseok
imable to supply.— E. W. B.]
^SS^oSST^SS^ HYDBOMOBIKUM, 608
injected ; one of the most frequent alterations is that of the
mncons membrane of the air-passages, which consists of a
red tint, sometimes violaceous, and verging to brown in
the bronchiflB, and occasionally in the trachea. Emphy-
sema of the cervical region, and especially of the lung, has
been often remarked. The trachea, bronchisB, posterior
fiauoes, and pharynx, contain the frothy secretion in
abundance.
(8) ProvintAal Medical and Surgical Journal. Vol.1., p. 196.
By Dr. W. V. Pettiobjbw.
1. J. P., aged 47. Po$t mortem after 20 hours. The
body seemed more rigid than usual, and a very dark
appearance of the muscles was observable through the skin.
Upon the skin being raised, every muscle of the body
appeared of the deepest crimson, and overcharged with
blood, and most of the viscera — ^the liver, spleen, lungs,
and kidneys were of the same color and condition. With
the exception of some coagula in the ventricles, the blood
was uncoagulated in every part of the body, and in the
larger arteries was found staining their inner surfaces.
The arm being examined, a point of discolouration resem-
bling the ecchymosis resulting from a leech-bite was
observable under the skin on the left thumb. From this
•evidence of the bite of the cat, the nerves were traced up
ihe arm to the axilla, and found to be quite healthy in
appearance; a small twig under one of the discoloured
points was thotight to be greatly reddened, but it could
hardly be considered as evidence of the inflammation of
the part. The dura mater had strong adhesions to the
calvarium, and the membrane showed more than usual
vascularity. Between the tunica arachnoides and the pia
mcUer there was some effusion, and minute portions of
coagulable lymph were floating in it. In certain parts the
tunica arachnoides was opaque; the vessels of the pia mater
were full of blood : upon cutting into the hemispheres of
the brain the vessels were more conspicuous than usual,
the bloody points appearing very numerous. The lateral
ventricles contained about 8^ ozs. of fluid, and the sub-
stance of the brain was in general of a soft consistence.
At the base of the brain, the investing membranes over the
pone varolii and the medulla oblongata were highly injected,
and bright red ; they adhered with great firmness to the
parts they immediately covered, but these parts when cut
2 B -2
604 HTDBOPHOBINUH. ^'"^^^JF^ST!^
Bericw, Oct. 1. 18BL
into were quite healthy. The membranes inyeeting the
origins of the 8th and 9th pairs of nerves were gorged with
blood. The vessels of the spinal oord seemed foUer than
ordinary. The papilhe of the tongne were much enlarged.
The mucons membrane covering the fnenum was healthy,
with the exception of a few gltmdolar enlargements : the
npper part of pharynx slighUy inflamed ; the OBSophagos
presented several white seed-like glandular enlargements,
and was bluish. The stomach contained a little macns ;
it was considerably inflamed near the cardiac extremitj,
and at the lower part of the smaller end the surface was
abraded, the vessels being distinctly visible, ramifying
minutely at this spot. The duodenum was strongly tinged
with bile, and slightly inflamed. The jejunum was
inflamed. The gall-bladder was full, and its ducts pervioaq,
The spleen was enlarged and gorged with blood. The
kidneys were more than usually injected with blood, and
vessels were observed ramifying on their pelvis. The
bladder was found strongly contracted. The trachea was
inflamed, particularly between the rings ; a similar condi-
tion existed in the bronchisB and their termination. The
pleura was healthy, but contained a pint of fluid. The
lungs were gorged with serum, and blood, and sputa.
The substance of the heart was softer than natural, and
the right side contained several coagula ; the left aoricle
was of a deeper colour than the right ; the aorta was of an
uniformly high red colour, which increased in depth as it
approached nearer the heart, and the pulmonary artery of
a deeper hue ; but this appearance of the arteries seemed
due to post'Tnortem staining by the fluid blood.
2. G. G., aged 18. Post mortem in 20 minutes [? boms'
— ^E. W. B.] The external surface where the muscles wew
in greatest bulk was rather darker than usual. It was par-
ticularly observed in the calf. On cutting into these
muscles, they were all found to be full of blood, and much
darker than usual. The dura mater adhered with great
firmness to the skull. The longitudinal sinuses were
empty ; a small quantity of blood was seen in a fluid state
in some of the lai*ge veins leading to the sinuses. The
hemispheres of the brain had a mil%- white appearance od
the removal of the dura mater, and this was observed to be
greatest in the intergyral spaces between the convolutions;
the general milkiness of the membranes disappeared in
some degree upon exposure to air. The membranes were
l£!SgS^<5T3if^ HTOBOPHOBINUM. 605
much less injected with blood than could be expected. The
snbBtance of the brain was very firm^ and less yascnlar than
ordinary ; there were fewer bloody points from division of
yessels than nsnal. Between two and three drachms of
flnid, not bloody, were found in the ventricles. The plexus
choroides was turgid with venous blood, and the vessels in
the left ventricles were much fuller than these of the right.
The pineal gland contained no sabulous matter, but was
very tough in its substance, and did not break down under
the pressure of the fingers as usual. The greatest vascu-
larity observed throughout the brain was of the pia mater
over the pons varolii and medulla oblongata. Here the
vessels were highly injected with arterial blood, particularly
on the right side, and they were very strongly adherent to
the parts beneath. The membranes over the optic nerves
and the crura cerebri were also very vascular. The absence
of vascularity in the brain generally was remarkable, and
not a drop of fluid was found at the base. The lateral
sinuses, like the longitudinal, were empty. The muscles
of the neck were dark, and fuller of blood than usual. The
papillsB of tongue were very large; particularly at the root.
Tonsils much enlarged, but not vascular. There was slight
redness at the bifurcation of trachea. The inner surfaces
of larynx and trachea were smeared with a dark fluid, which
appeared to be a portion of a dark bilious fluid, a small
quantity of which was found in the stomach, and of which
a considerable quantity had been vomited, prior to death.
The lungs contained an unusually small quantity of blood.
The pericardium contained about | oz. of a light straw-
ooloured fluid. The left ventricle was empty, firm, and
thick ; and its substance of a dark colour ; the right ventricle
had some small portions of coagula. The gall-bladder was
distended with bile, perfectly black. The stomach was very
much contracted, and on opening it, it was found to contain
About 4 oz. of a greenish fluid. The rugce were very strongly
marked, and the glands about the cardia and pylorus un-
usually conspicuous, and contained a whitish deposit, giving
them a strumous appearance. The mesenteric glands were
much enlarged, and the pancreas was more firm than usual.
Slight redness towards the pylorus* Intestines were dis-
tended with air, and looked very dry. The whole of the
descending colon and rectum were powerfully contracted ;
there was also a contraction in the centre of the transverse
arch of the colon. The urinary bladder was very firmly
606 HTDBOPHOBIHUM. ''aSSv^oSlZ
eontraeted, and as hatd to the fed as a dense fleshy mass;
the mnscnlar fibres were obserraUe through the peritonaal
GOTering firmly contracted. The penis was in a stale of
tension that might be considered semi-priapism.
The bite in this case was on the right pidrn*
(4) Provincial Medical and Surgical JovmaL YoL L, p. 227*
By Mr. Jok&than Toooood.
A BOYy aged 12, was bitten slightly nnder the left eye by a
dog. Angast Slst, about six weeks after the bite, he ML
indisposed, and refused to take his supper, but was per-
suaded to drink some warm cyder. On getting into bed
he shuddered considerably. On the morning of September
1st he refused to take his tea, though he complained of
thirst, and stated his surprise that he could not swallow.
He took, howeyer, a little bread and butter. About noon
on this day he was found to be afiected with sli^^t
headache, slight sickness at stomach, and a spasmodic
convulsiye affection of the muscles of the throat. The
countenance was anxious, the tongue white, the pulse
firequent, and the skin hot. On offering him a glass of
water he was seized with a Yiolent couTulsion of the face,
head, throat, and trunk of the body whilst attempting to
bring the gkss to his lips. After repeated attempts to
swallow, each of which was attended with a degree of
shuddering and horror, he succeeded at length in taking a
spoonfdl into his mouth, but was immediately seized with
a spasmodic affection of the throat, threatening suffocation.
He took 3 grains of tartar emetic, which caused yomiting
and purging. In the afternoon all the symptoms were
increased. The spasms were induced by slight causes,
such as an agitation of the bed-clothes. The pulse was
110, and there was much thirst. On September 2nd, at
10 a.m., the boy was found sitting up in bed, the
countenance flushed and the skin hot. The sight of the
water, of the spoon by means of which it was intended to
inspect the &uces, a draught of air, the rapid motion of
any object near the face, the opening of the window — all
induced immediate spasmodic catching motions of the
&ce, neck, and arms, and a sort of swinging movement of
the trunk of the body. Occasionally these convulsive
movements took place spontaneously, without any f^parent
external cause. Articulation was sometimes easy and
Bg^TJiff^ HTOBOPHOBCTXTM, 607
distinety bni sometixnes difficnlt, agitated, htimed, with
hesitatiozi and a spasmodic effort* The countenance
denoted great anxiety. The patient always sat up in bed.
The tongue was protruded easily and was whitish. Pulse
120. !l^morrhage from the nose had occurred. SO os.
of blood were taken from the arm. About 5 p.m. every
symptom appeared in an aggravated form. The coun-
tenance was suffused, except about the nose and upper lip,
which were pretematurally white ; the eyes started and
were glossy [? glassy — ^E.W.B.]. There was an ex-
pression of anxiety, amounting to agony. A quantity of
mucus and saliva now collected constantly in the fauces
and on the tongue, which he protruded out of the mouth
in a hurried manner, and seemed anxious and impatient to
have removed (sic). The sight of this frothy fluid seemed
indeed to aggravate all his sufferings, and he requested
repeatedly, in an eager and impatient manner, to
have it removed by means of a handkerchief. This he
sometimes did himself too, with the same impatience, until
at length the lips presented an abraded surface. The body^
arms, &c., were now almost constantly affected with strong
spasmodic affections ; sometimes he requested to be held
still. The respiration became frequent; the hands and
feet were cold and clammy ; pulse 160, and small. At
this time he attempted to get out of bed to go to stool, in
doing which the motions of the body and limbs were rapid,
hurried, convulsive, and, apparently, little under his
control. The sight of water, &c., stiU induced the same
painful effects as before. There were occasionally moments
of delirium, but in general he was rational and sensible to
external objects, and recognised the bystanders. He had
been occasionally much exasperated at his mother, whom
he had hurt on the hand, by the finger nail ; in general he
manifested no disposition to hurt or bite anyone. About
8 p.m. the countenance appeared fallen, the surface was
cold, the pulse imperceptible. There were stiU constant
but feeble spasms, and still the protrusion of frothy mucus
from the mouth. There was at this time a constant
muttering dehrium; the voice had become inarticulate.
Soon afterwards he assumed the supine recumbent posture,
the spasms became still feebler and smaller, and confined
to the mouth, throat, and neck ; the eyes were opened and
unfixed, the pupils throughout the disease were unusually
dilated. In this state of debility and feeble spasmodic
606 HYDBOPHOBIHUM. ''igS^^gg^Tm!
agitation he remaiiied for a short time, and died 48 hours
a^T the first symptoms.
During the attack the boy complained of pain in the
region of the bite.
(5) Provincial Medical and Surgical Journal, 1842.
Vol. 8., p. 442.
Extraots from Bulletin Therapeutique.
A man, who had been bitten by a mad dog, was seized
with rabies twelve months afterwards. He was bled to 32
ozs.y and took large doses of opium daring 24 hoars, which
only made him stupid. The veratrum cevadiUa was given
in doses of 12 grs. at 9 a.m. The sense of heat and
burning in stomach was increased ; 16 ozs. of blood were
taken by cupping from behind the ears. At 1 p.m. he
complained of weakness, constriction, and burning heat
about the throat, and difficulty of breathing ; at 8 p.m. he
had another attack of suffocation; at 10 p.m. he was
tranquil, and slept for three hours, and was able to drink
some fluid ; he complained less of the epigastrium and
throat. He recovered.
(6) Lancet, 1864. Vol. 1., p. 26.
By the Liverpool Correspondent of the Lancet.
A boy, aged 16, was bitten over the eye by a dog. Five
weeks after, on December 12th, he complained of having
felt ill all day, and that the side of the £ace where he had
been bitten was numb and hot. That night he had great
difficulty of breathing, and felt as if he should choke. The
symptoms which followed were characteristic: — a succession
of fits, during which he barked like a dog and foamed at
the mouth. In the intervals he was sensible^ and always
on returning to consciousness, anxiously enquired of his
mother if he had bitten her, as he thought all the time he
was in the fit he was worrying her. He could neither bear
the door to be opened nor ihe sight of water. The fits
succeeded each other more rapidly, and he died.
(7) Lancet, 1864. Vol. 1., p. 607.
From the Liverpool Correspondent of the Lancet.
A man, aged 40, was bitten close to the wrist in October.
On April 18th, nearly six months after, he did not feel well,
and on 19th was admitted into the Southern Hospital with
^S^J^STSS!^ HTPBOPHOBIHUH, 609
sll the B^pioma of hydrophobia. The inhaktion of
chloroform oansed ticdent spasms* At 7 p.m. the thirst
and desire to clear the throat had become greater. At 10
p.m. the thirst and constriction about the tiiroat were more
intense. He died about 86 hours from the commencement
of the attack.
(8) Lancet, 1864. Vol. 1., p. 733.
From the Liverpool Correspondent of the Lancet.
Two other fatal cases reported. The cases were charac-
terised by a peculiar susceptibility about the pharynx and
Tipper part of windpipe, which, as it increases, gives rise to
constant efforts to clear the throat, and in doing so to the
peculiar noises which are sometimes heard.
(9) London Medical Gazette, 1837-8. Vol. 1., p. 73.
By Mr. Fbedebick Chableb Jomss.
About five weeks ago, E. L., aged 26, was bitten by a
dog in the cheek and upper lip ; the wound on the lip was
immediately excised. On September 28rd, in the evening,
after drinking two or three pots of beer (his habits are
temperate), he was seized with a fit of vomiting, and
loathed the sight of meat.
September 24th. Was very unwell all day, and in the
afternoon feU into a deep sleep, from which there was
fiome difficulty in waking him. No spasms, but had a
restless night.
September 25th. In the morning spasms took place,
and he grew worse. No stool.
September 26th. Was taken into hospital at 9 a.m.
At 9.46 a.m. a turpentine enema was given, the greater
part of which was retained. At 10.15 a.m. his pulse was
soft, slow, and irr^ular ; feeling of great lassitude ; could
drink no water, but took a tablespoonful of milk ; sense of
constriction of the throat ; voice feeble, and when
speaking it resembles a loud whisper; skin moderately
warm, extremities, cold; pupils dilated; countenance
anxious. On the approach of anyone a slight spasm takes
place, and he appears as if being choked. At noon
symptoms were much aggravated ; tongue slighted coated,
but moist : breath of an acid odour ; every two or three
minutes was seized with spasms, characterised by violent
and gasping efforts at respiration. A high degree of
nervous irritability was apparent, and was increased by* the
610 KlBBOnKHURlllff. ^^^SSL^OBti^nau
presanoe of Tintors, and 0101 by Eght, so thai he kept his
Mod timed from the wmdowB and hia eyes cloeed.
Carbonate of irtm waa ordBred, and the spine nibbed with
camihaTide$, followed by a belladonna plaster. While
theae preparattona were being made the spasms became
more frequent, and were excited by the most triTial eaoaes,
snch as opening a door, the moTement of a person about
the room, &c., owing probably to the vibration of the air
upon the face. Even flies seemed to canse him much
annoyance. Abont 2.30 p.m. he slept for three-qiiarters
of an hour. At 5 p.m. he complained of great prostra-
tion of strength ; the spasms were greatly increased in
intensity; tongne moist; poke 54, irregular and inter*
mittent ; sMn rath^ warm ; no pain in the lip, but had
the sensation of a baU rising in the throat ; when he spoke
it was with great exertion, and like a man out of breath ;
quite sensible ; has passed rather high-coloured urine
Uiree or four times. At 7 p.m., getting rather more rest-
less ; pulse 84, sharp ; tongue dry ; mouth parched ; skin
hot, but no sweat* Once, when taking the bolus of iron,
he experienced great difficulty in swallowing, in eonse*
quence of the flatus meeting the substance passing into
Ihe oesophagus. Pulse, while I was writing the aboTO,.
sunk to 64. He appeared very much conrulsed, and could
not bear anyone to stand before him, but did not mind my
standing at his back. At 10 p.m. he was more conyulsed*
Gave 8 grains of chloride of morphia every thirty minutes^
and the cantharide$ and belladonna applied also to the
chest and region of diaphragm ; pulse 64, but rather fulL
He was more restless ; could not bear to have the candle
brought into the room ; his voice, however, was more
natural, and there was no rigidity of the muscles. His
cries were loud and frequent, and he did not like anyone
but his wife to come near him.
September 27th. — ^Has been restless, but quieted by the
morphia. At 6 a.m. : Has passed a quiet night on the
whole, crying out, however, at intervals. Pulse 68 ; said
fdt better, but rather sick. Asked for a cupful of milk, but
swallowed with difficulty. No stool since admission into
hospital [possibly the eflbct of the morphia. — ^E. W. B.]
At 7 a.m. getting more restless ; pulse 80 ; tongue dry and
fdrred ; urinated freely ; skin hot ; but no sweat ; felt no
pain, only a weakness at heart. At 8 a.m. asked for some
water ; took 2 oa., but immediately jumped up in bed and
aSS^SntSn!'^ HYDBOPHOBINUM. 611
appeared choking. Papila contiacted [? effect of morphia^
— -E. W. B.J ; spasms more yiolent. At 10 a.m. was leerj
Tiolent ; when Dr. B. entered the room, jumped oat of bed.
in a frantic manner, but apparently without any definite
object. No persoasion could induce him to return, till at
length he promised to do so if left alone. The experiment
was tried, but no sooner had all parties retired than he
bolted the door, made a rush at the high wooden railing
which separated him from the windows, and before an
entrance through another door could be obtained, thrust
through two squares of glass oyer the railing which he had
forcibly torn away. EUs wife succeeded iUr inducing hint
to return to bed. His limbs were now secured ; the con-
finement excited him much at first, but he gradually became^
reconciled to it. He was particularly anxious, however,
that only one person should enter his room at a time. At
11 a.m. tongue was parched, skin moist ; pulse 86. Has-
had no stooL Hallooed out yery loudly in a deep hoarse
▼oice; after each paroxysm he became very low; his
countenance was expressive of great anxiety, and his
manner extremely irritable. He was decidedly much worse.
At 12.80 p.m., stiU keeps crying out, and asks for milk,,
but cannot bear the sight of the cup, which he directs to be
kept under the bed. The fluid makes him sick, or rather
is forcibly ejected from his gullet. Morphia has been con-
tinued. Skin moist. Voice is becoming thicker, the
breathing more laborious, and the feeling of oppression
much increased. The pulse 140 after the paroxysms, but
he expresses no more horror at liquids than of anything
else he is requested to swallow. He bit a piece out of an
apple, but was unable to masticate it. At 1.46 p.m. the
angles of his mouth were continually elevated and depressed ;
eructation, accompanied by a noise slightly resembling the*
howl of a dog ; very much convulsed ; face very livid ; eyes
have an upturned expression ; breathing about eight times-
a minute ; pulse 180, small ; contraction of the occipito-
frontalis muscle ; chest heaving ; breathing veiy laborious ;
changing rapidly for the worse. The tobacco enema cannot
be administered on account of his violent spasmodic move-
ments. Pulse hardly perceptible. Appears perfectly un-
conscious of what is taking place, but seems to have some
idea of a pleasing nature, for now and then the countenance^
assumes a serene smile, evidently not due to convulsive
contractioii. Pupils strongly contractsed, and insensible to*
^12 UEVUSWS.
OdLUUBL
light ; conjnnctiTa much injected. At 2 p.m., pnlae 195 ;
twitching at the bed-clothes, and polling his neck about
Teiy mnch. All the bad symptoms much worse. From
this time till his death at 8.20 p.m., his pnlse was con-
tinnally yarying. He died comatose, and immediately after
his death his papils were observed to be Tory mnch dilated.
No blood conld be obtained from the arm after death at
first ; but in half an hoar tome serum flowed, followed in
three or four honrs by much blood.
REVIEWS.
TrafuaeUotu of The World^t HcnuBopaikk Convention^ 1876.
Two Tols. PhDadelpbia : Shennan k Co. 1881.
^Fhese two splendid yolmnes, containing 1,100 pages each, come
to ns seyeral years later than was originaUy anticipated — a resnlt
dne to the death, very soon after the proceedings oi the Conven-
tion terminated, of its widely esteemed president, Ganrofl
Dunham, and the prolonged illness of the secretary, Dr.
M*Clatchey. Hence, the work of editing has been done by
Dr. Joseph Guernsey. It has been a work of great labour, and
the excellent way in which it has been performed is ample
•evidence of the devotion of the editor.
To review a book of this character is scarcely possible. We
•can bat barely describe its contents.
The first volume, after sundry details of a purely business
character, opens with the eloquent address of the president.
Then follow papers on Materia Medics, including one by Dr.
Sharp, of Rugby, on the Foundations and Boundaries of Modem
Therapeutics; A Memoir on Arnica, by Dr. Gourbeyre; an
Essay on Apis Meilifica, by Dr. Goullon, Junr. ; one on
Mezerenm, by Dr. Gerstel ; on Hydrocyanic Acid in Epilepsy,
by Dr. Hughes ; on Curare, by Dr. Pitet ; and others on general
topics connected with the subject of Materia Medica, by Dr.
Pdilicer y Frutos, Dr. David Wilson, Dr. Navarro, and Dr.
Conrad Wesselhoeft. Next, we have full reports of the discussions,
in which Dr. Sharp's paper is especially assailed by Dr. Lippe
4Uid Dr. Farrington. The speeches in discussion are really
additional essays on the questions taken up in the original
papers.
In the department of Clinical Medicine, several valuable essays
appear, while the discussions on pneumonia and diphtheria are
especially interesting.
The department of Surgery is, as might be expected from a
Convention in the United States, particularly full. Ophthahnie
l£5fi!».SnSS*^ BEviBws. 61 &
Benew, Oet. 1, 1681.
sabjecis are discoursed on by Dr. NoTian, of New Tork, and the
late Dr. Woodyatt, of Chicago ; those relating to the ear, by
Dar. T. P. Wilson, of Ann Arbor, and Dr. Houghton, of New
York ; while Dr. Helmuth considers the influence of homoeopathy
Bpon snrgery in a very elaborate essay, in which he brings
together a large number of observaticms fiom his own experience
and from the records of others^ showing the advantages of
homoeopathy in the treatment of diseases generally regarded as
surgical. Dr. Bojanns, a Russian surgeon, contributes a
paper on Uro-Litluasis ; Dr. Beebe, one on Tumours ; Dr.
Franklin, one on Gunshot Wounds; Dr. M'Clelland, one on
Syphilis ; Dr. Minor, one on Yaricosis ; and Dr. Jenney, an
interesting case of Gunshot Wound of the SkuU. The discus-
sions which follow are chiefly Hmited to the consideration of
syphilis and tumours, and several of the speeches are replete
with interest and instruction. The remaining essays are on the
diseases of women.
The second volume is occupied with a history of homoeopathy
in the different countries of Europe and in the United States. A
large amount of extremely interesting matter is brought together
in tiiese essays. They give one a very fair idea of the immense
progress which homoeopathy has made in all parts of the world, in
spite of an amount of opposition, the extent and intensity of
which it is impossible to calculate.
Never do we remember seeing two volumes of greater interest
to the homoeopathic physician, or essays which may be read
with much greater advantage than those contained in the work,
before us.
The HoTncBopathic Phyneian: A Monthly Journal of Medical
Science. Philadelphia.
This recent addition to the periodical literature of homoeopathy
is, we believe, intended to supply the void created by the sudden
demise of the Anglo-American Journal, called The Organan.
Its articles are of much the same quality, its sneers at all
physicians who do not believe in the marvellous efficacy of CM. '&
fully as contemptuous as were those of its predecessor.
Of the medical men who took part in the International
Homoeopathic Convention the modest editor says, they ** have
never practised homoeopathically," and, ''for the most part,''
they " know nothing of the homoeopathy of Hahnemann." The
moral they seek to derive from the proceedings is " the great
necessity for the International Hahnemaimnan AssoeicUion,**
English practitioners who like literature of this type may be
interested in hearing that Mr. Heath, of Ebuiy Street, is the
agent for its sale.
614 NOTABIUA. "'S£?Sr7S
Bericfir, Oet 1, un.
NOTABIUA.
THE MEDICAL PBBSS ON THE ADDBESSES AT THE
MEETma OF THE BBITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION.
Db. Bbxbtowe and Mr. Jokathak Hutchinson have, by thdr
exhibitioii of common sense and, as liiings go, Eberal Tiews on
the question of meeting homoeopaths in consnltation, stiired iro
a large amount of feeling among the more narrowed minded
seetion of the profession. The Lancet has been especiaUy
exercised. The ide& of snch opinions being so much as mooted
at a large professional meeting has been an extremely sore
point. Only a few weeks ago the editor counselled the
Association to re-endorse the resolutions of 1851. The reply to
this was their practical repudiation by two members of the
Association, "uniyersally recognised,'* we are told by tiie
British M^Mcdl Journal^ '' as two of the ablest, most deeply
read, most philosophical, most acute, and most cautious re-
presentatives of medicine and surgery." That two such men
should so reply to the silly bigotry of tiie Ijancet was, we admit,
a somewhat severe blow.
In an article, on the 20th August, the editor kindly says thai
he does not wish to call us " knaves and fools.*' Such, indeed,
was often enough the language of his predecessor in the editorial
chair ; but so great has been the progress of education in our
midst, that even the editor of the Lancet has learned that
*^ medicine in its most rational and effective forms is imperfect
enough to make us modest, and to lead us not to call each other
names." After this exhibition of mildness, he continues — " Tet
we maintain that the histoiy of homoeopathy is the history of a
delusion and a conceit." It is very easy to assert anything, how-
ever contrary to feuit, but to prove that homoeopathy is either a
delusion or a conceit is amply an impossibility. No one has
ever succeeded in doing so yet, though a goodly number have
tried, and no one ever will so succeed !
The British Medical Association is not only a Society for the
discussion of all subjects bearing on the science and art of medi-
cine, except homoeopathy, and a large trades-union, but it is
the proprietor of a medical journal which competes with the
Lancet for professional patronage 1 The fact that homoeopaths
had been favourably spoken of at one of its meetings, and that
the journal of the Association had not, during the two sueceedii^
weeks, repudiated the opinions expressed, gave the Lancet an
opportunity for a little self-glorification wluch, it was probably
hoped, might re-invigorate its circulation and take some of the
sting out of the existing competition. Hence, on the 27th Augustp
the editor attributed the opinions expressed by Dr. Biistowe and
SS^iSTW?** jroTABiLU* 615
'Bflviflv, Oflt 1,
Mr* Htttdiinflon to *^ a very deep and well caneerted scheme laid
l>y the Cooneil of the British Medical Association, or those
irho govern the cooncily to reverse the ethical principle which
has regulated the attitode of the profession in all civilised
eonntries towards homceopathy." There was not the slightest
reason for supposing anything of the kind ; bat to dronlate such
a notion mi^t have the efiect of weakening the confidence of
some members of the Association in the so-called orthodoxy of
their jonmal, and lead them to look once more to their discarded
Lancet to sustain their prcgudices and foster their bigotry. A
week later, and the President of the Council repudiated all know*
ledge of ^e intentions or opinions of Dr. Bristowe and Mr.
Hutchinson ; and a fortnight after the Lancet admitted that its
4< fear never was very great that any considerable number of the
practical members of the Council ever gave the sanction of their
authority to the practice of consulting with homoeopaths." One
would have supposed that the suggestion that there had been, on
the part of the Council, a ''very deep and well concerted scheme "
io promote this very end, did shadow forth some '* very grave
iiBar " indeed ! Anyhow, the suggestion in question had a three
weeks ran before its eontradicti^was anno^oed in the jomnal
that made it. That was something. Having in this manner
admitted the groundlessness of its '' suggestion," the editor goes
on to claim the gratitude of the Council and to express its
assurance that it has that of the members of the profession for
its '' prompt repudiation of the views of Dr. Bristowe and
Mr. Hutchinson." '' Short's your friend, not Codlin " is the
moral the Lancet here appears desirous of impressing on those
who do not take it in as they once did 1
This some article shows also some advance in education on
the paort of the editor. He thinks that licensing bodies are
properly prohibited from imposing an obligation on candidates to
Adopt or refirain from adopting the practice of any particular
theory of medicine or surgery. A few short years ago and this
same Lanoet insisted on tiie duty of all corporations refasing
diplomas to candidates known to be intending to practise
homoeopathy 1 The world evidentiy moves, even in the Strand I
In the Lancet of the 17th ult., a considerable portion of a
leading article is devoted to an endeavour to convince its readers
that there are no homoeopathists now-a-days, or, at any rate,
only '' about a dozen!" The authority that our numbers are
thus reduced is *' a friend " of an anonymous correspondent,
who describes him as "a man who practises strict homoeo-
pathy." Who the person is who is responsible for this statement
we know not. Someone, we presume, who regards himself as a
Tery superior person — some one who considers his conception
616 NQTABILIA. ^"SS^^S^X
of homoeopathy the only one poesible for an mtdligent man to
entertain 1
'< Homoaopathy/' the editor infers, ''has been played oai
Eyerything is conceded, by those who practise it, but tbe
name." He further alludes to the injndioions letter addressed
some years ago by Dr. Wyld (who happened at the time to be
one of the Yice-f^esidents of the Britu3i Homoeopathic Society)
to Dr. B. W. Eiehardson, and says that in it Dr. Wyld
« admitted practically all the Ltmc§t said about the system and
those who profess it without practising it." Whatever may
have been Dr. i^Wyld's indiscretion, this is a gross mis-
representation of what he did say.
What are the facts ?
1. Homoeopathy consists in a principle of drug selection of
well nigh universal application in the treatment of disease by
those who have a sufficient familiarity with the Materia Mediea,
2. A knowledge of the effects of drugs is obtained by experi-
ments made with them upon healthy human beings.
8. The dose of a homoeopathicaUy indicated remedy must be
smaller than one sufficiently large to induce its physiobgieal
action.
These principles are held to be true by a very large, an
increasingly large, number of medical men. The confessioa
that they are true involves that exclusion against which Br,
Bristowe and Mr. Hutchinson protested. The discussion and
illustration of these principles is denied by the medical press,
hence the ezistence of journals, especially and by title devoted
to these objects. These principles, though partially put into
practice in some hospitals, are so in a more or less diahomest
manner — in a way calculated to obscure them. Hence, tbe
existence of hospitals in which they are put into practice —
hospitals known as such by the name they bear. Facts denved
from these principles are taught in some medical schools, bat
the principles themselves are not so much as mentioned, mocb
less expounded to students. Hence, the existence of a school,
the very name of which tells the student where he may leam
what homoeopathy is.
Any man, who, believing in these principles and endeavouring
to put them into practice, denies that he is a homoeopathist, is to
our thinking, a good deal of a coward. The persons wbo
mislead the public are the men who deny the truth of homoeo-
pathy, when speaking and writing, and practise homoeopatbicallj
as far as they know how to do. There are, we have reason to
believe, a very large number, an increasingly large number, of
medical men who thus mislead the public, in order to keep on
I good terms with their medical brethren, and secure for themsdres
I the ** good things " of the profession.
I
Yfhetn the principles we haye set forth are admitted to be
Talid and true, and reoeiye proper consideration in hospitals,
societies, s<diool8, and jomnals, then there will be no necessity
for deseribiog onr institutions as homoBopathic ; tmtil that time
anives, however, the title is alike wise, correct, and essential.
Ilts Medical Timss and Gazette, of the 17th nit., has an
article, entitied, '* Hahnemann, Hanuxopathy, and HomcBopaths,*'
This was admirably replied to by Dr. J. 8. Clarke on the 24th.
One or two passages we also most quote. ''There is not a
single remedy," says this inteDigent editor, " except among those
which act only locally, as by irritating the skin or the bowels,
which produces the same effect as does disease, and at best the
resemblance is of the most remote and superficial description ! **
How about ttrychnia and tetanus ? How about arsenic and
cholera ? The similarity here is so great, both in the symptoms
during life and in post mortem appearances, that Yirchow has
dwelt upon the difficulty of distinguishing the conditions
X»roduced by drug and disease.
** The proof and test of the value of a remedy in a given form
of disease is," we are told, '* experience and experience alone.*'
This is perfectiy true. Apply this test to homoBopathically
selected remedies, and the proof that homoeopathy is true is
provided.
*^ That the physiological effects of a drug as ascertained by
experiment and observation, are of incontestable value as an
aid to its application in practical medicine, no one will seek to
deny.** IJiatno one does now deny this, is entirely due to>
Hahnemann. He it was who first of all worked out this method
of drug investigation. The results which have foUowed this
method, have led to its general adoption to-day. The plan pur-
sued, too, is simply that described by Hahnemann, plus the use
of instruments of precision invented since his day.
Beferring to the comments made by homoeopafluc journals on
the addresses, the editor says : '* The tone is that of conquerors
all round— a tone which is probably premature, certainly un-
pleasant and thoroughly misleading.** It is not, we may remark,
in such addresses as those of Dr. Bristowe and Mr. Hutchinson
that homoBopathists see their victory. They can and do con-
gratulate these gentiemen on their bcong able to rise superior to
&e bigotry of tibeir coUeagues, and on their not condemning a
therapeutic method without taking some pains in making an
effort, however imperfectiy, to understand it. Where we do see
the assurance of tiie ultimate triumph of homoeopathy is in the
general adoption of Hahnemann's method of drug investigation,
in the popularity of such text books of Materia Medica as those
of Dr. Bingar, the d-devant homoeopath Charles Phillips, and
Dr. Barth(2ow* Mora than seven-tenths of the therapeotio
Ko. 10, Vol. 25. 2 8
618 KOTABILIA. bSS^oSTTSu
.advice given in these vohimeB has been derived from ihe pne&e
of homceopaihy. A few years more and ihis proportion will
increase ; a littile longer, and, the dost being wiped off the eyea of
the profession by more frequent interconrse with homoeopatits,
it will be made apparent where aU this teaching came fr(Mn, and
where more of the same sort may be fonnd, and then will be the
triumph of homoeopathy. For this we can wait, doing oar best
to hasten it by teaching and writing.
We have just had handed to ns a bonnd pamphlet, issued by
Messrs. Savory and Moore, the well-known chemists, and
entitled JVew Eemedies and Special Preparatiom by Savory and
Moore. Among these we find '* Tinctures prepared at the
suggestion of Dr. Phillips, and mentioned in his Materia
MedicaJ* This list consists (dpubatiUaf hydrastis; stapkysagria^
aetaa racemosa, cocculus^ eanguinaria, ihujat kamala^ colocyntk^
bryoniaf ignatia^ spigelia, and rhus ; and immediately afterwards
Savory and Moore *' call attention " to '* other important non-
officinal tinctures," in which list we find gebeminum^ hydrastu,
hamameliSf Phytolacca, sangidnaria, xarUhoxyUan,
That audi a long list of remedies, unknown till homoeopathy
pointed out their value, should be so far recognised by the old
school as to be advertised by Savory and Moore, is a fact which
speaks volumes, and requires no comment.
These articles show a great deal of ignorance of what homoeo-
pathy is. though less so perhaps than existed a few years ago.
If the readers of these journals do desire to know something of
Hahnemann and homoeopathy, we may inform them that they
have now an opportunity of doing so without much trouble. On
Tuesday next, at 4 o'clock, there will be a lecture delivered at
the London Homoeopathic Hospital, on Hahnemann as a Medical
FhUosofJier \ on Thursday, at 5 o'clock. On ihe Principles of
Drug Selection in Prescribing ; on the day following, at the same
hour, on The Scientific Aspect of Homoeopathy ; on Monday, the
10th, at the same hour, on The Study of the Effects cuid Mode ef
Action of Drugs ; and on the following Thursday, on Posology ui
Belation to Homceopathy, At these lectures all medical men will
be heartily welcome.
The recent discussions on the subject of homoeopathy render
it more imperative than ever that medical men should possess
themselves of an intelligent knowledge of its principles, and we
trust that the present opportunity will be largely made use of.
THE MELBOURNE HOMCEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
Thb followers of Hahnemann are numerous in Victoria, and it is
now some years since the believers in homoeopathy founded a
dispensary for out-patients in Collins Street. It was soon found
that a very m^ent necessity existed lor providing for the accommo-
dation of in-patients ; and in 1876 a bnilding was procured for the
purpose in Spring Street, and the hospital has been in existence oyer
Binee* In the course of a year or so, the accommodation became
so limited that it was determined to make an effort to build a
iiospital that would be sufficient for the requirements, for many
years to come, of those who preferred the homoBopathic treat-
ment. It may be remarked that during the time the hospital in
Spring Street has been in existence nearly 14,000 patients have
l)een treated, and in 1879 there were no less than 7,594 consul-
tations. The committee, impressed with the necessity of another
1>uilding, applied to the Goveroment for a site, and received a
most favourable reply. The Chief Secretary granted a piece of
jground on the St. Kilda Boad, and further gave an assurance
that the institution would be entitled to share in the vote to the
other charitable institutions as soon as a certain sum had been
collected. The site secured is on the St. Eilda Boad, between
the military barracks and the Immigrants' Home hospital, and
the committee, on obtaining it, entrusted Messrs. Grouch and
Wilson, architects, with the preparation of a design, which was
itdopted. The building, when completed, will present a very
iiandsome appearance. It will be a two-story brick building,
in the early English style of architecture, and will, when
finished, cost Jg8,000 ; but only what is termed the adminis-
trative block, and one wing, for the accommodation of forty
persons, will be undertaken at present, the cost being estimated
At Jg5,000. Some Jglv200 has been received for the building
fund, and a Bruce Auction, lately held on the Melbourne
<sricket ground in aid of this fund, was such a success that,
when the accounts are made up, it is anticipated the amount
realised will be such a handsome addition to the funds in hand
that the work can be gone on with at once. Starting under such
favourable auspices, it is not too much to expect that the whole
sum required for the completion of the building will be speedily
available, and that another presentable and useful structure will
be added to our numerous institutions of a kindred character.
A Bruce Auction may be briefly described as a fiancy fair, at
which a large portion of the articles are sold by auction. The
credit of initiating this sort of procedure to raise funds for any
purpose is given to a Mr. Bruce, many years ago a prominent
colonist, who was exceedingly successful in obtaining a large sum
for a charitable institution by this combination of auction and
bazaar. Since then the plan has been adopted on many occasions
with marked success, but not one of them with greater than that
attending the Bruce Auction on the Melbourne Cricket Ground
on the 10th Apnl last in aid of the funds of the homoBopathio
hospital. It was opened by the chief secretary, but owing to the
g s— 2
^0 woTABiLu. igj&Ji^gygi:
inclement state of the weather only about 2,000 persons irere
present on the first day. Shortly before noon Mr. and Mn«
Berry were receiTed at the reserve entrance by the managen,
and conducted to seats in the space below the grand stand set
apart as the bazaar. A considerable number of ladies and
gentlemen assembled there, and the inauguration ceremony
was commenced by Mr. J. W. Hunt, hon. b'easurer, address-
ing Mr. Berry, and tendering the sincerest thanks of the
committee for the generous manner in which Mr. Berry had
responded to the request that he should open the Brace
Auction and Easter fair. Mr. Berry made a suitable reply,
and expressed his pleasure at the establishment of a new
school of medicine, which had passed through a great deal
of adverse criticism successfully. After the show had been
declared open, a number of auctioneers, who had given their
services, were soon at work. They had no difficulty in seeming
the attention of a crowd at each tent, and they submitted sndi a
heterogeneous collection of oddities and utilities, and caused aa
much unusual merriment in forcing the transactions^ that it was
quite amusing to participate in the barter. What matter was it
tiiat one was asked to bid for a decrepit beer pump, or to mab
an offer for a pair of lady's boots ? He was not bound to ebim
his purchase, although it was surrendered if a demand was made.
It was quite optional with him to allow the article to be again
submitted, always providing that he satisfied the request of the
clerk for the payment on his bargain. There was no uncertainty
as to the destination of the money ; there were no intmaive
brokers to make everybody uncomfortable by a rough scnitinr
of the value of the articles ; there were no secret agents engaged
to force the bidding; there was nothing but goodwill, and whflst
the patrons paid for their amusement, &e auctioneer maintained
his position. But there were bargains and there were people
who knew when and how they were to be notade. A tiinfij
hoiisewife could purchase a half chest of tea on most £avoaiable
terms. An addition of a bag of flour or sugar eoold
be most advantageously made to the pantry stock, and, if
required, there were articles of clothing to be had at absnrdly
low figures. There was some legitimate business intenmzed
with the fun, and in no instance was any dissatisfaction expressed
at the result. The next important attraction was the Bichardson's
show, in which reigned all the glories of an extra quaKty melo-
drama, where murders and the triumphs of virtue were of
alarmingly frequent occurrence, and where there prevailed a
remarkably friendly feeling between the actors and the patrons.
The performances of a troupe of minstrels afforded much, amuse-
ment, and an enterprising donkey owner hired his animals to 9Bf
who were venturesome enough to ride them. Such an inddgeneo
^SS^J&fS^ HOTABILU. 621
Bevieir, Oot. I, U8t.
inyariably resulted in the overtkrow and dificomfitore of the rider,
luad contributed much to the amusement of the onlookers. On
Easter Monday the eommittee was favonred with the finest
weather, and there was a much more nomerons attendance —
upwards of 10,000 persons being present. The bazaar was very
busy all the afternoon, each entertainment and side show was
liberally patronised, and the auction sales were Tery brisk.
There was no unwillingness to take part to the utmost in the
festivities of the day, and wherever an opportunity was afforded
of indulging in barter of any kind there were always plenty of
buyers. On the following day, the last of the show, there was
again a large attendance ; and though no accurate account has
yet been made out, there is no doubt the undertaking has, on
the whole, resulted satisfactorily, and will, it is anticipated, yield
a considerable profit to the funds of the Homoeopathic Hospital.
— Illustrated Australian News,
THE DEATH OF GENERAL GARFIELD.
Ik common with Englishmen everywhere we take the earliest
opportunity of expressing our deep sympathy with the people of
the United States in the severe trial which has recently visited
them. The intense interest with which everything relating to the
illness of the late President has been received here demonstrates
far more conclusively than treaties or aught else can do how
elosely we are as a nation united to our brethren across the
Atlantic. Struck down at the very opening of a career fiill of
promise of usefulness to his countiy by the band of a fEtnatical
assassin, President Garfield has been an object of deeper interest
throughout the world during the last three months than any
other person. And now that he has gone he is mourned for on
this side of the Atlantic certainly with as much sincerity and
nearly with as much intensity as he is by his own countrymen.
The post mortem examination has abundantiy demonstrated how
impoflsible his recovery was from the moment the bullet entered
his body. His protracted illness likewise shows the wonderful
vigour of his constitution — a constitution unimpaired by excesses
of any kind — and yet for all that he was a man who, from his
earliest childhood, had been a hard worker, both with his brains
.and his muscles.
The surgical treatment of the case has been the subject of
much severe and, we think, somewhat ungenerous criticism by
the press of the United States. Dr. Bliss, who was chiefly
responsible for the management of the case, is, we are informed,
.a surgeon of ability and experience, and folly qualified to do that
which was most likely to conduce to the recovery of his patient.
Jt now appears that whatever had been done the result would
Jiave been the same, and he is fully entitied to a share of the
622 hotabuja. ^^S^
Betinr, Oct 1, 18BL
credit oi faaTing, by his mamgament, assisied in proloi^iDg tbe
]ile of hiB patient.
CriticiBm of a kind is alirays easy — ^bnt for newspaper writeis
to take upon themselves to prononnce dogmatically about ivbat
onght to be done and what oof^t not to be done in eiieum-
stances of the natoie of which they are necessarily igaonni, ii
a piece of presnmption which is deserving of the bigbesi
reprobation.
A surgeon of recognised ability and experience in charge of %
difficolt and important case, to which he doTOtes himself day and
night for weeks together, is entitled to the confidence and grati-
tude of those he is endeayooiing to serve.
THE QUEEN AND MEDICAL WOMEN.
A PARAOBAFH Originating in an English newspaper, has obtained
circulation through some American joumals to the e£fectthat
Her Majesty threatened to withdraw her donation and patronage
from the International Medical Congress if medical women were
admitted as members of it. We belieye that Sir William Jenner
entirely denied the truth of the assertion.
STATISTICS OF SMALL-POX AND VACCINATION.
Db. Bebnabd reports that a total of 402 patients were admitted
during the year 1880 to the small-pox hospital at Stockwdl,
887 suffering from smaU-pox, and 15 from other diseases.
Fifty- two died, 289 were discharged, and 111 remained under
treatment at the end of the year. The mortality was 12.9 per
cent. Of 292 vaccinated patients, 19 died, or 6.5 per cent;
of 24 patients whose vaccination was very doubtful, 8 died, or
88.8 per cent. ; and of 86 unvaccinated patients, 25 died, or
29.0 per cent. Dr. Bernard gives a table (showing the state as
regards vaccination of the children less than ten years old ^(^
were admitted as patients) which indicates veiy strongly the
protection afforded by vaccination. Of children showing good
vaccination- scars on their arms, 167 were admitted, witfi odIj
8 deaths; of those with imperfect scars, 127 were admitted,
with 16 deaths ; of those said to be vaccinated, 22 were admitted,
with 8 deaths ; whilst of 86 unvaccinated, there were 28 deaths.
Dr. Bernard says that his experience at the hospital daily shovs
him the urgent necessity for more stringent measures being taken
concerning compulsory vaccination and compulsory revaccinatioD'
He would also like to see compulsory notification and registratioa^
of smaU-pox and other infectious diseases. Adverting to tbe
statements made as to the spread of smaU-pox from hospitalsr
mX^ITS^ noxabilu, ^
Br. Bernard says thai ha has evidenoe which directly proves
that these statements are not fdanded on hci. He admits,
howerer, that it is very probable small-pox hospitals may, directly
or indirectly, be the means of propagating the disease when
improperly conducted. Eleven of the patients walked into
hospital ; a most fertile source of the spread of the disease,
which is likely to oontinne unless o£fenders are prosecuted. A
very large number of visits were paid to the patients in both
hospitals; and Mr. McEellar and Dr. Bernard unite in saying
that, so far as they have been able to discover, no case of
infection has been caused thereby. — British Medical Journal.
MORNINa DRAMS.
If there is one form of *' drinking ** more injurious than others,
it is that which consists in the frequent recourse to drams at odd
times between meals. That there is a great deal of this sort of
tippling in vogue cannot be doubted, when we take cognisance of
the very large and, as it would seem, the increasing number of
young men and even women of respectable appearance who are
to be met in the streets of London or any large city as early as
noon, already to an evident degree under the influence of an in-
toxicart. Discounting the multitude of such inebriated persons
for habitual debauchees, and those who drink so deeply at night
that they retain the e£fects of the poison until late in the following
day, it is still only too plain that a considerable proportion of the
staggering and half-unconscious or unduly excited individuals
about are the victims of the morning dram. It is a serious
question whether public-houses should be allowed to begin the
day before noon. It is surely unnecessary that workmen and
workwomen should commence their potations earlier than the
usual dinner hour. As it is, no sooner have the bricklayers,,
painters, plumbers, plasterers, or carpenters engaged in the re-
pair of a house returned from their breakfast, and arranged their
tools, than they go or send for beer. The result of tUs early
beginning of the drink business is that before the afternoon has
w^ set in they are apt to be practically useless, or only able to
labour with a great effort for self-control. While the doors of
public-houses stand open those who have money will enter and
buy drink. Perhaps if the purveyors of intoxicants were not at
liberty to commence their dangerous trade until just before the
first meal in the day at which stimulants are legitimately taken,
there would be a less common use of the " morning dram,** one
of the most mischievous '* drinks " in which the multitude
especially the young — can possibly indulge. — Lancet.
624 N0TA«U4.
OeLi,fln.
LAUGHING IS CATCHING.
On the banks of the river Delaware, America (the Journal de
CondS informs its readers), lives a fJEOining &milj, the members
of which are troubled with a most singular affection. The
father was seized — it is ten years ago — with a sudden,
uncontrollable fit of laughter. As it continued without apparent
cause, the wife appealed to him to tell her the reason, but he
only laughed the more. His son beat him between the
shoulders, but that was of no use, so they sent for a doctor.
He was unable to deal with the case, said it was a nerrooB
disorder for whi«di he knew no precedent, and against it, he
thought, medical science was powerless. At sunset the
laughing ceased, and the fanner fell exhausted. But his
strength soon returned, he supped, and afterwards slept as
usual; but, at the end of a few hours the fit of laughing
suddenly returned, and ceased as suddenly at the end of five
hours. On succeeding days and nights, the laughing fits came
on at regular intervids ; but, becoming used to them, and
feeling that they did not impede his working, he continued
in his fields, and took as little heed of his lauglung as he could.
But although the fits came on, as a rule, at fixed hours, some-
times one would take him unexpectedly; for instance, one
Sunday at his chapel it came on and he could not control it ;
it proved catching ; gradually the congregation joined him ; ftnd
after trying in vain to quell the contagion, the preacher hims^
proved a victim, and he laughed also until obliged to hold
his sides. So it went on with the farmer for nearly two years ;
the young people feeling the impulse but struggling against it,
but ultimately they all, beginning with the eldest, have become
victims to the disorder. — Journal du Magnetisnu,
A DEFINITION OF ALLOPATHY.
Dr. Daniel Hoopeb, the senior physician to the Surrey and
Public Dispensaries, in an article in the September number of
The Practitioner^ entitled '* Allopathy, Homoeopathy, and No-
Pathy,'* thus defines allopathy: *'The system of treatment
adopted by the non-homoeopathic members of the profession.*'
''This system,'* he says, ''is based upon scientific knowledge,
experience, and sound logic ; it is physiolc^cal medicine charac-
terised by a strong belief in the sanative powers — the vi» meH-
eatrix-^i nature, and very great scepticism as regards the
utility of drugs ; it takes care of, supports and amuses the patiait,
while nature cures his disease ; it makes much of dii^osis.
Teeogpicdog ttuU to find out is in miiiy euei to enre a disease,
snd it nerer wearies of searching for causes of symptoms,
because causa whlcud yery often anat affeetm ; lastly, it admits
the existence of a few specifics, such as quinine for ague, which
i^re given quite empirically, without any notion of their nux^tit
x)peraafidi of how or why they produce their e&cts."
Dr. Hooper woidd herein seem to desire to pose as a modem
lioliere t It would be difficult, we think, to pen a more telling
satire on the present practice of medicine t Dr. Hooper amuses
his patient, while nature cures the disease I How very kind of
^* nature *' I '* To find out is in many cases to cure a disease."
-Cholera is traced to impure water— did that discovery ever cure
-one single case of cholera ? Prevention we admit is better than
cure, but it is far from being the same thiog I Who ever cured
■a painful joint, because he had found out &at it was caused by
rheumatism ? Finding out the cause of disease is, in short, one
thing, and curing the results of this cause is another.
He essays to describe homoeopathy, and his account of it is
•comic to a degree. When he gives the l-4th of a grain of
ipecacuanha to cure vomiting of food, he says that he is not
** granting the truth of the law of similars." Perhaps not, but
he is giving a practical exhibition of it, which is much more to
the purpose !
He tells his readers that '' it is quite certain that, under no
treatment whatever will 80 per cent, of genuine established cases
of Asiatic cholera recover." For ** it is quite certain that ** read
'* I am quite certain that so far as my experience goes '* — and
we could credit Dr. Hooper here. But ihe experience of Fleisch-
mann in Vienna, of Russell in Edinburgh, and of the physicians
of the London Homceopathic Hospital has proved clearly enough
that 76 per cent, of cholera — ^real genuine cases of Asiatic cholera
—can be saved by homoeopathic treatment 1
The Arcadian simplicity with which Dr. Hooper concludes his
extraordinary essay is delightful — the more so when we consider
that it was written in the Borough of Southwark I He writes :
*' Can they show us one Brodie, or Bright, or Jenner, or Watson,
or Paget, or GoU, or Wilks ? No ; and' the reason is, homoeo-
pathy is not true ; for such men as these would sacrifice (and
oflben have sacrificed) everything for tho truth — friends and fame,
and wealth and health, and even life itself." We are happy to
know that notwithstanding the frequency with which these dis-
tinguished physicians and surgeons are said to have sacrificed
these five blessings, they have still a very fair share of each
remaining to them.
626
HOTAULU.
IKniiftHy HiiiOM|wlliIc
Bavieir, Oet. 1, un.
HAHNEMANN PUBUBHINa SOCIETY.
Annual Meport,
Ths annual Meeting of this Society was held at 7, Argjie Street,
London, Jnly 15, 1881 ; Dr. B. Hnghes, President, in the chair;
and amongst those present were Ihs. C. and W. Wesselhoeft,
Owens, and Eaton, of Ameriea.
After reading the minntes of the preyions annual meeting, the
Secretary read a report of the proceedings of the year ending
Jane 80, 1881, in which it was stated that since the previons
annual meeting the Society had published, at a cost of £288,
ToL 1 of Hahnemann's Materia MecUca Pura^ with Hahnemann's
own introductions^ notes and comments, translated by Drs.
Dudgeon and B. Hughes, and of which Messrs. Boeiieke and
Tafel, of America, had taken 500 copies ; also that toI. 2 was
now in the printer's hands, and would be ready within the next
two months; and of which Messrs. Boericke and Tafol weie
taking 500 copies, as of vol. 1. Also that chap, zziv., that is.
Back and Neck, of the Repertory, prepared by Dr. Stokes,
was also in the printer's hands, and would be supplied to mem-
bers probably within the next month; and as this chapter
includes all &e reliable symptoms of all the trustworthy medi-
cines, in Allen's Encyclopedia and supplement, and has been
prepared in strict accordance with the original plan, it would be
the most complete and reliable repertory of the back symptoms
ever published, and a book essentud to every homoeopathic prac-
titioner. Also that Dr. Black had arranged &e symptoms of
digitaUe for the Society's Materia Medica, and this arrangement
was ready for the printer. After some discussion on Materia
Medica matters, it was unanimously agreed that as the compendious
character of Allen's Encycloptedia necessitated the collection of
even doubtful symptoms, and the plan iuTolyed the spUtiing np
of the symptoms, it could never be a substitute for the Society's
Materia Medica, in which all the reliable symptoms of each
medicine are selected and arranged in their natural groups, and
indexed ; and it was therefore very important and desirable to
p* oceed with and push forward the Society's Materia Medica as
rapidly as possible. In response to this demand. Dr. Black
promised an arrangement of the symptoms of plumbttm, to be
ready by Christmas ; and, in conjunction with Dr. Dudgeon, of
the symptoms of nux vomica ; and of murcurixu corrosivus, with a
survey of those of mercurial preparations generally. Dr. Burnett
promised the symptoms of phosphorus ; Dr. Ker, those of conium ;
Dr. Clark those of argentam nitricum ; Dr. E. T. Blake, those of
seeale ; Dr. B. Hughes, those of iodium ; and Dr. Hayward, those
of crotalus. These volunteer workers promised to endeavour to
eomplete these works so as to enable the Society to bring out a
aS^tegTogMSg* KOTABILIA. 627
good-flized Tolmne by next annnal meeting. And it was onani-
monsly agreed that it is the dnty of all Britidi homoeopathic
practitionerB to assist the Society by at least joining it as
members^-all its publications being essential to their every day
work ; and by being members they would obtain these at cost
price.
The committees and office-bearers of the Society were re-elected,,
and the time and place of next annnal meeting were fixed to bo
those of the next Congress. — John W. Hayward, Hon. Sec.
THE HAHNEMANN CONVALESCENT HOME,
BOURNEMOUTH.
This Institution was re-opened for the winter season on th6>
20th nit. Daring last winter the Home was literally fall. The
committee, relying upon public generosity, allowed themselTes-
to exceed their income by J6170, which tiiey now owe to their
bankers. Besides requiring funds to carry on their work, they
haye therefore to appeal to the generous and wealthy to enable
them to pay off their present indebtedness. The Institution is
one of great value. It has not been long in operation, but it
has during this short time done good work, and shown that it
is well worthy of that liberal public support which we trust it
will secure. ____^__
BRITISH HOMOEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
Ths First Ordinary Meeting of the present Session will be held,
on Thursday, October 6th, 1881, at seven o'clock. A paper
will be read by Dr. Washington Epps, of London, entitled
Two Cases of Chronic Eczeina.
THE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL CONGRESS.
The Times of the 19th ult. informs us that one of the German
papers has remarked as a result of the recent International
Medical Congress, that '* during the absence of the most
eminent medical men the mortality in Germany had been
diminished!** ^^
PRIZE ESSAY.
Db. Pbateb, of London, offers a prize of £80 for the best Essay
on the following subject : <* In the use of copper plates worn,
next the skin as a preventive of cholera, is the beneficial result,
which is said to be produced, due to magnetism excited by the-
copper ?*' Dr. Prater expects that experiments fully detailed be-
made to show whether there is any ground for supposing that'
copper thus worn excites magnetic action or not, and if it does,
with what material in the body the current is generated.
Secondly, if it can be shown that magnetism is developed,.
628 NOTABiLiA. >%!aL
Benefv.OeL 1,UBI.
flignmants for or agaiiui this being the eanse of the bMieficial
effect of the cagpex plates which is said to exist, to be given.
Dr. Prater expects that all experiments, original or quoted,
irith aU cases, original or quoted, be detailed in fall. Dr. Prater
would wish to have Dr. Swanks (of New York) cases (see Paper
by Dr. Berridge in Homceopaihic World) related in full, provided
they have been treated by mineral magnetism. He notes, as
bearing on the subject, Jousset's Paper in the Hamceopatkie
Review^ March, 1881 ; the advertisement of Mr. Seymour's
Magnetic Appliances (Homceopathic Review^ March, 1881) ; and
** Dr. Burq*8 Qirdles," 1829— ^ousset^s experiments to be if
possible repeated.
No prize will be given unless the adjudicators decide the
essay to be sufficiently good.
Essays to be sent to Dr. Dyce Brown, 29, Seymour Street,
Portman Square, W., on or before April 1st, 1882.
PRIZE ESSAY.
A Pbizb of one hundred pounds (£100) will be paid by ** The
Equitable Life Assurance Society ot the United States *' (London
office, 81, Cheapside, E.C.), to the author of the best Essay on
the subject named below ; and twenty-five pounds (dS25) to the
author of the second best Essay.
Subject, Life Assurance 1 With special reference to its
influence in promoting habits of economy, thrift and sobriety ;
and the consequent repression of intemperance, poverty and
crime ; its bearing upon the reduction of the poor rate, the coet of
repression of crime, and in stimulating the productive industiy
of the country ; and hence the national beneilt conferred on the
community in lessening taxation, while giving increased power
to pay ; and finally, its Lofiuence upon our social sorronndings,
in strengthening family ties, and in rendering sacred the home.
Conditions 1 Essay (not to exceed, when printed, the length
of 32 octavo pages of long primer type) to be sent to the under-
signed not later than October 1, 1881, unsigned, but marked
with a nom de plume or number, by means of which identity may
be secured. Endorsed outside, ** Prize Essay Contest."
A Committee consisting of the following gentiemen have con-
sented to acyudicate upon the essays sent in: — B. C. Haix,
F.S.A.; CoBNEuus Walford, F.I.A., F.S.S. ; Thomas Huohbs
("Tom Brown"), Q.C., F.S.A., umpire, llheir award in
writing, and the accepted essay, will be made public. The
names of authors will not be pubUshed without their assent.
The Society reserves the right of awarding a third prize of
ten pounds (£10) to any writer recommended by the '* Selection
Committee ** as having produced an essay of merit, although it
may not have conformed entirely to the preceding conditions.
B09iBWf Oofe. if
NOTABILIA.
029
METEOROLOG'IOiLL OBSERVATIONS
ZAxm Jkx no
HOTEL BELVEDEBE. DAVOS-PLATZ, SWITZEBLAND,
From Ut July, 1880, m IBth April, 1881.
Ths instniments are first-raie (Negretti & Zambra, and Gasella), Terified
at the Eew Observatory and plaoed according to the regolations of the
English Meteorological Soeiefy. The observations have been taken with
the greatest accuracy.
N.B. — ^When the force of the wind is not mentioned a sli^t breeze is
indicated. A complete cahn is denoted by O.
JULY, 1880.
llinn
Thennometer.
Hygnmetar.
Wrjd.
womem of wxan.
of
of
MIkftW
Date
—1
■uuw
•
IMu*
Mm.
44.6
SoImx.
Max.
127.
wulo.
balb.
Upper
CITTeitt.
VaUey
wmter
in
Sng.
inche»
1
24.896
73.6
8.W.
N.
2
24.896
71.6
44.6
128.
S.
N.
A strong breese.
8
24.897
69.8
60.0
109.6
s.
8.
4
24.9
51.6
40.
113.
45.
42.5
8.
N.
11 a jn. 2.30 p.m.
high wind.
5
25.12
59.5
62.
129.6
66.6
48.
W.N.W.
N.
A strong bzeeze.
6
25.10
71.
68.
189.
66.
62.
W.N.W.
N.
^m
7
26.08
76.38
36.
140.
71.
66.
N.W.
N.
8
24.96
69.6
68.
136.6
69.
64.6
S.D. Vf .
8.
After4p.m.htgli
winrl
9
25.0
68.2
63.
136.6
66.76
66.26
o»o,^¥»
8.
10
25.12
67.5
45.
122.6
68.6
63.
8.S.W.
8.
11
26.21
69.3
46.75
138.
68.
60.
8.
N.
1 strong breeie.
12
26.21
68.2
46.
140.
67.6
67.6
a
H.
13
26.17
67.5
48.
127.6
65.
66.6
w.
0.
14
25.16
72.76
40.6
137.
70.2
68.
8.
N.
15
25.15
78.33
42.
140.
72.6
68.6
N.W.
N.
16
25.12
81.
46.
142.6
80.6
62.2
N.
N.
17
25.18
80.6
60.
146.
80.
69.
N.
N.
18
25.16
78.26
48.5
139.6
70.6
60.
S.W.
N.
19
25.22
79.33
49.33
148.6
72.5
67.2
w.
8.
11 a.m. 1 p.m. a
strong hreeae.
20
25.26
76.76
60.6
139.
74.6
67.
8.W.
N.
21
25.14
73.
61.
136.6
64.
67.26
8.W.
N.
22
26.04
66.5
60.
122.5
64.6
67.
S.W.
N.
23
25.06
66.
46.
136.
68.6
66.
B.W.
N.
24
25.07
72.
37.
135.
69.8
63.
S.W.
N.
25
25.12
78.
44.8
136.
69.6
63.
w.
N.
6 p.m. 5.45 pjn.
his^wind.
26
25.07
78.5
45.
137.
77.
69.
W.S.W.
S.W.
27
25.1
76.5
49.
136.
60.
61.
w.
N.
A. strong bvsese.
28
25.08
71.6
48.5
136.5
60.
65.
8.W.
N.
29
25.01
76.5
44.
144.
76.6
66.26
8,W.
N.
•
80
25.01
65.
63.
96.
61.6
64.
8.
N.
OooaubnaTTy
strong gnsts.
A hi^ breeze.
81
24.95
59.76
48.5 127.
62.33
49.
8.
N.
680
1
KOTABILIA.
n8VMV|
^Oet^CiflL
AVOTR, UtO.
1
1
A^L
Date
Bm.
24.82
Thermometer.
Hygromfltar.
Wind.
wkBOH nv ^Tvn
Ami.
of
of
Max.
68.33
Min.
40.
861w
Max.
52.5
Wet
bulb.
TJliper
oozrent.
YtJhn
Wind.
JrVlH/S W WAJiV.
^^M
IB
1
117.6
49.6
8.
N.
2
24.79
55.5
48.
127.
64.
49.
S.
N.
8
24.78
49.
40.5
90.6
46.
48.6
S.W.
N.
•
4
24.95
56.
89.5
110.6
46.
48.
N.W,
N.
6
24.96
65.75
30.88
130.5
64.6
66.
N.
N.
6
24.96
66.33
38.83
139.6
65.6
54.
S.
8.
7
24.82
56.2
47.5
92.6
54.
48.2
s.
IT.
8
24.74
63.66
37.
93.
62.
52.
s.
N.
9
24.97
63.8
41.
102.
60.
44.
s.
N.
10
25.19
56.8
40.88
186.
56.6
47.2
N.N.W.
N.
11
25.02
64.
41.5
186.
61.2
49.
s.w.
N.
12
24.93
60.2
87.
137.
60.
52.
W.;
0.
13
24.95
65.2
46.
88.
52.6
50.
W.
0.
14
24.93
61.8
49.
125.
65.
58.
N.
N.
15
24.97
64.
50.
143.
63.66
56.66
N.
0.
16
24.98
70.5
45.
141.
70.
59.66
N.
8.
17
26.08
70.25
47.
146.
70.
69.5
W.
N.
18
25.07
61.66
50.
122.6
59.
55.
W.
N.
19
25.05
65.5
46.
138.
65.
64.75
w.
0.
20
25.12
68.5
43.5
142.5
67.
55.6
w.
0.
21
25.11
69.
45.33
140.
65.66;55.
w.
0.
22
24.95
57.
50.
70.
50. 48.
8.
0.
23
25.07
68. 47.33
145.
66. I55.
w.
0.
1
24
25.01
68.2 41.5
75.
54.5
58.
s.w.
0.
1
25
25.08
68. 40.
66.2 40.
141.
64.
54.2
w.
0.
26
25.07
127.5
62.25 51.
w.
0.
1
27
25.1
59.5 47.
105.
55. 51.
w.
0.
28
25.13
65.3347.
143.6
59.5 ;52.
N.W.
0.
29
25.04
62. !42.33
123.
61.6
56.
8.
0.
80
24.92
56.8 |46.33
73.
56.5
53.
8.
0.
31
25.03
59.7547.2
101.
57.
54.5
S.W.
0.
SBPTSXBEB, 18
«0.
1
25.12
62.5 47.8
129.5 60.33
56.66
N.N.E.
0.
2
25.32
69. ;49.
139.33 69.
59.33
N.
N.
3
25.31
74.2 44.25
143.
69.
59.33
0.
N.
4
25.29
76.5 '44.
146.5
70.5
58.25
0.
N.
5
25.31
73. '43.76147.
71.66
59.33
N.
N.
6
25.2969.3351.5
142.33
69.
58.
W.N.W.
N.
7
25.14 69. l48.
135.
68.25
55.
W.N.W.
0.
8
25.13 65.6648.2
108.
64.
55.25
8.W.
N.
9
25.05|66.66 50.25 150.
58.33
53.33
S.W.
N.
10
25.02,66. '44.66 112.
68.
53.33
8.
N.
11
24.9869.6642.33145.
69.
56.66
8.
0.
12
24.94 64.5 40.25
127.
60.
62.6
8.
N.
13
24.93 64.66 40.25
120.
53.
45.25
8.
N.
1
14
26-02 62.33 36.
80.
60.
48.
S.W.
0.
15
24.8852. ;35.66
125.
50.25
46.
S.W.
N.
16
24.79 48.75,33.
135.
46.
41.2
s.w.
0.
17
24.87 56.75 32.6
140.
52.5
48.
S.W.
N.
18
25.08 69.6636.2
134.
59.
47.
.9-
N.
19
25.03
57.5 31.5
128.
56.2
46.
S.W.
N.
20
24.88
49.5 142.5
92.
46.
44.
8.W.
K.
21
24.98'39.75'33.
116.
88.
85.
S.W.
N.
22
25.08
54.5
32.5
115.6
49.
46.25
w.
N.
,Ootl,li81.
KOTABILIA.
681
1 1 Amt.
Thermometer.
Hygrometer.
Wind.
Amt.
of
Date
BroL
FOBCB OF WIJTD.
of
mow
in
Sng.
inches
]£ax.
60.
Min.
Solar
Mat.
137.
ban>.
59.
Wet
bulb.
50.5
Upper
correat.
Valley
WinC
water
23
26.08
86.
W.
N.
24
25.04
58.75
45.
90.
48.5
47.
s.w.
0.
25
25.06
61.75
43.
147.5
59.5
51.
N.W.
N.
26
25.09
61.
31.5
136.5
60.
48.25
N.W.
N.
27
25.09
57.76
37.
134.
57.
49.
NN.W.
N.
"28
25.16
55.
84.5
136.
58.75 48.26
N. N.
29
26.22
56.75 29.2
136.5
56.25;46.76
0. N.
SO 25.22i
69.8 i29.
133.
68. i49.26
0. 0.
ocTOBXB, laso.
1
25.26l67.76
29.26
148.
61.76
47.
N.
0'
2
25.07 65.26
31.33
143.
65.
48.
0.
N.
3
24.8647.33 32.83
110.
47.
42.25
W.N.W.
N.
4
24.88 57.33|40.5
122.
62.
47.
W.
0.
5
24.9769.76
42.25
93.
66.5
48.
s.
0.
6
24.9662.
46.33
103.
60.5
61.5
D.O.W.
B.
7
24.9661.76
63.
101.
61.
51.26
S.
0.
8
24.8361.5
44.
123.5
57.
50.25
S.
0.
9
24.81 47.
26.2
122.5
46.
44.
0.
0.
10
24.7
42.8
29.
136
87.6
37.6
s.w.
N.
11
24.85
49.
26.2
114.
48.
40.5
8.
0.
12
24.9
43.26
35.
100.5
42.
39.
S.
N.
13
24.9643.2
28.
124.6
43.
39.33
w.
0.
14
26.07
49.5
32.5
185.
89.6
37.
w.
N.
15
26.06
68.26
23.5
134.5
55.6
44.
w.
0.
16
25.04 66.
32.5
123.6
53.25
48.
W.N.W.
0.
17
25.04 67.
31.
128.6
61.26
45.
S.W.
0.
18
24.98|50.5
38.
84.6
60.6
46.25
S.
0.
19
24.98'6d.
41.66
136.6
48.66
46.
S.
s.
20
24.7462.2
37.38
135.
52.
44.
s.
S.&N.
21
24.8 54.26 39.5
76.
50.5
47.
s.
N.
22
24.7 .66.8
41.5
61.6
66.
48.
s.w.
0.
23
24.83'66.33 41.
134.
64.66
49.25
w.
N.
24
24.8337.26 34.
93.
36.
34.
w.
N.
25
24.97 41.26
26.2
124.
39.
34.
w.
N.
26
24.87
51.8
19.25
123.6
48.26
38.
w.
0.
27
24.8264.76
29.25
94.
62.6
47.5
s.
N.
28
24.74 54.5
42.
128.
53.75
44.
s.
0.
29
24.53 60.76
40.25
93.
46.66
48.66
s.
N.
30
24.7734.
24.
89.6
31.5
27.26
w.
8.
81
24.94 38.5
25.5
122.
38.6
81.
0.
0.
VOTEMBSB, 1880.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
26.00 33.
24.90i38.
24.7835.5
24.73|43.
24.8637.5
26.07,40.
25.12 60.
26.07,50.2
24.9760.2
24.94 37.2
24.96
24.9945.
46.5
13.8
112.
19.
87.
28.
81.
81.
120.
28.
117.
27.
119.
21.
124.6
27.6
105.
26.33
122.
26.6
86.
20.25
117.5
21.76
114.
33.
36.
33.
42.
36.
38.
127.26
6632.
!29.
33,86.
5 132.
36.
26'36.
26 36.
46.
42.
48.
36.
46.
44.26'37.
44.66
36.
86.
0.
N.£).
0.
0.
0.
0.
s.
0.
s.
0.
N.W.
0.
o;
0.
0.
0.
S.W.
0.
w.
0.
0.
0.
0.
0.
<»2
WOTAtPr^fi
• O0LI,
1 1
1
1
i&
V^ A.
Y^^^
Thermometer.
Wind.
.Ant
of
ol
Date
Max.
Min.
20.
Solar
Max.
70.
1^.
48.
Wei
bnlb.
89.6
TTppcr
cuxettt.
TaUey
WmcL
lonGBi ov wniDk
in
18
24.95 54.25
S.
N.
J3
14
24.9558.83120.
122.
58.
41.
w.
0.
15
24.75;48.75'27.2
122.5
46.
88.38
fl.W.
N.
16
24.77,48.2 l26.
100.
47.6
87.5
s.
8.
17
24.89 39. 32.
46.
38.
85.
0.
N.
.4946.75
18
24.4238. {25.2
136.5
34.
28.88
N.
8.
.036
i
19
24.4841.7512.2
94.5
39.
86.
s.
8.
20
24.7741.2525.
135.5
37.
33.76
s.
0.
21
24.88;40.33|23.
139.
38.
83.
s.
0.
.47
22
24.78 40.66 27.
128.
38.
86.25
s.
0.
28
24.4 38.5 '17.25
124.5
38.
82.5
8.
0.
24
26.1441.6617.5
118.
89.5
84.5
0.
0.
25
25.1643.5 I2O.25
106.
40.
86.
s.
0.
26
25.
48.7525.25
129.
i2.
87.
8..
0.
27
26.09
47. 28.33
136.
46.26
89.26
8.
0.
28
26.03
39.66 30.
114.6
36.5
84.76
0.
0.
29
26.04
44.3324.
189.6
43.26
87.6
0.
0.
30
25.2842. 25.5
120.
42.
84.
0.
0. I
BXCXICBSS, 1880.
1
2
8
4
6
6
7
8
9
10
11
22
28
24
26
26
27
28
29.
80
81
25.
26.
26.
26.
26.
26.
26.
26.
26.
26.
26.
2 |45.
08 39.66
12
17
2
24
12 26
18 24.
14 24.
16 |24.
16 24.
17 24.
18 24.
19 24.
20 l24.
21 |24.
38.5
48.66
36.8
40.8
2836.
37138.33
2141.66
05 38.5
0437.33
03 34.
26.
24.
24.
94
87
88
77
68
7
99
92
7
96
6
24.65
24.6
24.74
24.73
24.73
24.71
24.72128
33.5
37.
34.5
41.66
42.
36.66
31.
42.26
39.5
27.
82.5
34.75
38.25
23.
37.
41.5
46.6
40.6
21.5
19.
17.
17.6
19.6
24.
29.5
20.
20.
24.
24.
13.
14.25
27.33
27.5
17.6
21.33
27.
13.26
18.76
24.6
18.6
7.
19.
21.
7.26
7.
21.
24.26
81.
26.6
120.
115.
117.
125.
120.5
116.
51.
120.5
116.
102.
103.
130.
46.
87.
107.5
137.
140.
106.
120.
146.
109.
126.
100.5
118.
66.6
120.
132.
181.5
186.
68.
116.
42.
84.
0.
0.
39.
81.5
0.
0.
36.33
81.
0.
0.
42.
82.
N.W.
0.
36.33
21.5
N.W.
0.
40.
88.66
N.W.
0.
36.
86.
W.
0.
87.
82.
N.W.
0.
36.
82.
W.
N.
32.6
29.
S.W.
N.
36.
88.
W.N.W.
0.
30.
26.
N.
0.
32.25
81.
0.
0.
84.25
82.5
0.
0.
34.
82.6
N.W.
0.
40.6
38.
W.
0.
40.33
84.26
s.w.
0.
36.
84.
w.
N.
27.
24.26
w.
0.
41.6
85.5
8.W.
0.
38.26
84.
0.
N.
21.
18.
0.
0.
80.
27.
w.
0.
38.
80.
8.W.
0.
87.
81.
8.
0.
20.6
17.6
W.
0.
36.5
82.
W.
0.
38.76
84.76
w.
0.
48.
87.
8.-
0.
87.
84.
8.
0.
27.
23.6
W.
0.
06
.20
.04251
.44
.49
8tioDg gusts.
Aft6r!4 p.in.tW|^
BonlhiriiicL
.19
1.83
.1051
.8
.36
J8
2i
|17.
3.
L
4.
.10
.085
1.5
i
B«Tiew, Get. 1, 1881.
NOTABILIA.
68S?
JAVTTABT, 1881.
1 1 Amt.
Bate
Brm.
24.97
Thermometor.
"Wind.
Amt.
of
snow.
ICax.
Min.
Solar
]!iaz.
118.
Drjr
bulb.
24.
Wot
bulb.
Upper
coirent.
VaUoT
Wind.
voBCB OF vmny,
•
of
water
in
Eng.
inches
1
26.5
8.25
22.
N.
0.
2
25.07
26.
^1.
122.
20.
18.
N.
0.
3
25.02
32.
6.
136.
25.25
22^5
0.
0.
4
25.01
40.25 15.
128.
39.5
32.5
S.-S.B.
N.
5
24.78
42.7518.5
136.5 40.
35.
s.
0.
6
24.9
41.3322.
95. 41.
36.
8.
0.
7
25.
28.5
3.
120.5 28.5
25.
0.
0.
8
24.92
29.5
1.66
121.5l28.25
23. 0.
0.
9
24.75
28.66 3.75
122. '23.
20. 0.
0.
10
24.68
28.5 -5.
121. ;23.5
20. lO.
0.
11
24.6
27.33 0.
120. |24.33 21. :0.
0.
12
24.6 27. 0.
121. 24.6
21.5 1 0.
0.
.126
.5
13
24.37
26.25 3.5
62. 24.5
22. 0.
0.
.1
.5
14
24.48
20. 1 5.75
114.
16.
14.
W.
0.
15 24.27
22.5 1 4.
118.
21.
17.5
s.w.
N.
f
.25
.33
16 24.48
11.25 5.
115.
11.
10.
N.N.W.
N.
17 24.72
21.6610.66
120.5
16.
13.
0.
0.
18 24.43
30. -3.
55.
25.5 24.5 1 8.W.
0.
.10
2.&
19 24.4
30.66 7.
65.5
28.25 26.5
s.s.w.
0.
20 |24.27
23. ;io.
112.
19.
17.
8.
N.
21 24.78
18. -3.9
118.
11.1
9.2
w.
0.
22 24.89
24. i-3.
137.
23.25
20.
0.
0.
23 ,24.67
21. -2.
128.6
19.6
16.5
0.
0.
24 124.92
20. -10.
123.
18.
16.5
0.
0.
25
24.85
23.25-5.
118.
22.
17.6
8.W.
N.
A strong breease.
.115
1.
26
24.6
30.76 10.75
131.6
29.25
26. ! N.N.W.
0.
.55
1.
27
24.58
40.5 9.
133.
40.
32.5
W.N.W.
0.
.3
•75
28
24.44
42.25! 9.
126.
40.5
35.5
S.W.
0.
29
24.51
42.66 14.5
130.
40.25
32.25
S.W.
0.
30
24.39
38.25 19.
108.
37.26
32.5
8.
0.
.135
2.
31 24.62
42.5 18.
163.
37. 134.
S.W.
0.
FBBStlAKY, 1881.
1
24.62i41.33 9.25134.
40.
32.26
N.W.
0.
2
24.83 40.33 12.25 135.
37.25
32.
N.
0.
3
24.9
42. 10.66136.
36.
32.
0.
0.
4
24.65
44.25 13. 135.
40.
32.6
0.
0.
5
24.65
42. 12.25135.
36.
32.
8.
0.
6
24.55
25.2 19. 60.
24.66
23.5
0.
N.
Strong gosts.
.10
3.
7
24.81
37. 19.5 117.
26.
23.5
W.
N.
8
24.62
34. J 7.
96.
33.5
30.6
W.
0.
A strong breeze.
Fromll.l5 a.in.,
.345
12.
9
24.62
33.5 22.25 98.
1
29.
26.2
W.N.W.
0.
till 1 p.m.
strong breeze.
.26
4.5
10
24.6
43. 24.25 128.
42.6
38.
W.
0.
.15
2.
11
24.32
36.5 22.
135.
35.
29.
N.W.
0.
A strong breeze.
12
24.49
24. i]3.
55.
18.25
15.2
N.W.
N.
.5
.75.
13
24.86
32.75 10.
119.
28.
22.
N.W. .
N.
.226
.5
14
24.78
32.66-6.6
142.
31.5
24.
N.W.
0.
15
24.7
44. ' 1. 144.6
40.
32.
0.
0.
16
24.84
48.6 12. 144.
46.
35.
B.W^.
0.
17
24.88
46.7618.5 133.
45.5
36.
8.
0.
18 24.92
44.6620. 134.
42.8
36.
S.S.W. '
0.
19
24.9
46.5 19.5 147.
43.
36*
W.8. W.
0.
20
24.9845.6 18.25133.
44.
85.
S.W.
0.
21
25.0248.5 25.5
134.
46.
84.
S.W.
0.
22 25.00!43. 20.
134.
4a.25
[84.
0.
0.
Nf
». lU.
Vol. 26:
2
T
IKH
b
NOTABILU
kt
iSSm
, Oat. Coil
7XBBVABT, 18S1.
, 4^
Btte
Bnn.
ThtrmooMter.
Hygromater.
Wind.
Amt
if
VOBCB or «!■!».
OK
•
25.00
Max.
48.
Wn.
17.
Solar
Max.
188.
InSb.
Wet
bnlb.
flnxsnt.
TallflT
Wind.
&
23
46.5
88.25
S.W.
0.
24
25.00
42.75
13.75
129.
40.6
82.
0.
0.
25
24.85
42.25
18.6
133.
89.
32.
0.
0.
26
24.76
43.66
12.
180.
42.6
84.
w.
0.
27
24.7
41.66
16.
79.
41.
84.26
s.
0.
.S5
.7S
38
24.64
41.66I22.5
129.
40.
85.
s.
0.
.d6 '8.5
MASGH, 1881.
1
24.55
25.33
24.25
67.
28.
22.
0.
0.
.3
.5
2
24.84
24.
12.
140.
22.
19.
N.
N.
8
24.75
35.66
-.4
126.
82.6
26.
N.
N.
4
24.8
36.33
11.33
76.
34.26
32.25
0.
0.
3
.5
5
24.7
42.25
24.
82.
40.
36.
0.
0.
6
24.74
46.
29.25
82.
40.
33.
8.
0.
.5
7
24.85
54.5
34.38
118.
47.25
43.
W.
0.
17.
L
8
24.87
40.5
32.5
136.
40.25
37.5
N.
0.
9
25.02
37.66
27.26
117.
32.
30.
0.
0.
.146
U
10
25.04
39.
28.5
69.
38.
32.
0.
N.
.966|U.5
11
25.06
39.66 28.
89.
39.6
38.
N.N.W.
0.
.1I6| 3
12
24.92
52.5 22.
156.
48.5
38.6
N.W.
0.
13
24.81
46.33 24.
140.
44.5
38.
N.
N.
14
24.81
49.5
12.
140.
47.
34.
0.
0.
15
24.98
49.5
15.
128.
44.5
34.6
0.
0.
16
25.08
44.5
14.33
127.
42.
34.
0.
0.
17
25.2
44.0
12.5
127.2
42.
33.
0.
N.
18
25.81
42.5
14.
114.
88.
31.
0.
0.
19
24.91
52.76;24.5
119.
50.5
41.
0.
0.
20
24.91
51.25,25.
180.
50.
40.
s.
N.ifeS.
21
24.66
44.
81.6
129.5
42.
87.
W.N.W.
8.
.16
2.
22
24.55
25.
21.
120.
24.
22.
0.
N.
A. high wind.
.305
9J
23
24.95
39.
14.5
150.
84.
27.
N.W.
N.
A. strong fareese.
24
24.95
40.5
18.
126.
38.
32.
W.
N.
A rtrong bzeese.
25
24.52
50.
30.
142.
43.6
37.25
N.W.
0.
.1
26
24.66
44.2
28.75
128.
42.6
37.
8.
N.
27
24.6
50.2
19.25
130.
48.6
35.
0.
0.
28
24.7
53.5
20.
135.
52.25
38.
0.
0.
29
24.7
54.5
21.5
187.
52.
38.
0.
0.
80
24.62
51.75
31.
103.
46.
40.6
8.W.
N.
From 12 ajn. a
strong fareeae.
.65
81
24.65 50.5
81.
120.
46.5
42.
S.
N.
APSII, 1881.
1 24.65
53.5
88.
187.
61.6 41.
S. , 0.
■ .6 i
2 24.67
51.
85.
188.
47.6
42.6
s.
0.
8
24.55
52.5
38.5
128.
47.5
48.
s.
0.
.285
4
24.6
51.
32.5
129.
45.
40.
s.
N.
5
24.68
52.
27.
106.
61.26
41.26
s.
8.
.8
6
24 73
59.
29.
136.
56.
46.
8.
8.
7
24 73
57.
30.6
140.
56.
46.
s.
0.
.6
8
24.87
44.5
34.
66.
42.
40.6
0.
0.
.11
9
24 93
50.
31.6
111.
46.
42.
N.
8.
10 li4 97
50.
36.
114.
42.
38.
N.
0.
.85
11 24!87
46.25
31.6
113.
44.
41.
£.
0.
Oooasional high
.186
12
24.88
52.25
32.6
188.
49.6
41.
S.W.
0.
18
24.94
54.
27.
136.
68.
41.6
N.W.
0,
14
24.94
50.25
34.
180.
48.6
39.
N.W.
8.
9
15 24.97149.6 188. "116. 1
48.26
40.
8.
8.
~ 1
lSS^^:rrS^ HOTABILIA. 685
AN EDINBUBGH PBOFESSOB ON H0M<E0PATH7.
Tax following passage ttppean in The SeoUman of 2nd Angoat
as a part of the Yidedictoty Address to the graduates of the
Uiiiversity of Edinburgh by the Professor of Surgery, Mr. Amriif*
** It is probably expected that I should here say something in
regard to homoeopathy and homoeopathic practitioners. My
difficulty in regard to homoeopathy is, that, judging from the
recent correspondence and discussions on the subject, the
majority of homoeopathic practitioners no longer acknowledge or
practise in their entirety the principles of the original founder of
the system. I understand that they now make use of homoeo-
pathy, allopathy, or any other treatment which they consider
likely to be useful — ^I might in some, I hope not in many,
instances, say agreeable— to their patients. Why, then, call
themselves homoeopaths ? and why do they let it be understood
that their treatment is a special one, or is in any way superior
to that practised by the ordinary practitioner ? The position of
homoeopathic practitioners is at present both illogical and
inconsistent as regards the practice of medicine ; and I say that
ihey should either hold to the original principle of homoeopathy,
and call themselyes true homoeopathic practitioners, or they
flhonld retire from the ranks of homoeopathy, return to the field
of the ordinary profession, and give up their pretensions to cure
all diseases by any special system which is peculiar to them-
selves. You wOl meet homoeopathy not infrequently in your
future professional life. You will meet it in the form of your
patients leaving you in order to undergo a course of this special
treatment. You will meet with it by being told that homoeo-
pathy has cured patients whom you have failed to cure, the
fact being that patients become cured sometimes without any
treatment, after treatment of aU kinds has failed — nature having
at last got a chance. And you will meet with it in your patients'
houses by seeing pretty little bottles and boxes of bottles containing
minute portions of fluids or solids lying on the tables of their
dressing-rooms. (Laughter.) I cannot resist likening homoeo-
pathy to what is now termed Aesthetics. Both are amusing and
absurd to those not practising them ; both are harmless when
used in moderation, and both apparently please, entertain, and
occupy the minds of those who have the time and money to
spend on them. Perhaps the best advice I can give you in regard
to the treatment of homoeopathy is to treat it as most sensible
people treat aesthetics. I have no desire to say anything that is
discourteous or personal in regard to homoeopathic practitioners
themselves. Many of them are educated gentlemen, and are
3 1— 2
636 NOTABILIA* ^"^i^o^^St
qualified members of our profession ; but it is impossible, mider
present oircumstances, that yon can haye any tme sympalhy
with them in the matter of medical practice. Yon cannot meet
them in consultation, because, although yon might agree mik
them as to the natore or diagnosis of a case of disease, one or
other of you must consent to sacrifice your principles and belitf
when the treatment of the disease has to be decided, and no man
with any proper feeling will do this, or should do it, more par-
ticularly when the health or life of a human being is concerned.
Your assistance as surgeons, or in other departments where
medicine is not required, may be sought by homoeopathic prac-
titioners, and in these cases the question of homoeopathic treat-
ment does not arise, for homoeopatiiy will not cut off a leg or set
a fractured bone ; but even under these circumstances, although
you may sometimes be justified in meeting a homoeopath, I
would, from experience, advise you to insist upon taking sole and
special charge of the patient as long as your particular treatment
is required."
Why Mr. Annandale should be *' expected to say something
about homoeopathy," we are not aware. It is angeneronsto
expect a man to discourse on a subject regarding which he is
very ignorant. Ne sutor ultra crepidam is a maxim Mr. Annan-
dale would do well to bear in mind, when he is next called npon
to address either medical students or any other body of persons.
If he does so, he will not again touch upon homoeopathy without
haying gone through a course of study relating to it.
Mr. Annandale states that his '' difficulty in regard to homoeo-
pathy is that, judging from the recent correspondence and dis-
cussions on the subject, the majority of homoBopathic practitioners
no longer acknowledge or practise in their entirety the principles
of the original founder of homoeopathy." K Mr. Annandale had
known anything about the " principles of the original founder of
homoeopathy," he would haye been aware that these embraced
many subjects besides homoeopathy. Homoeopathy is a role or
principle of drug selection — and this alone. Thiis rule or principle
homoeopathic practitioners now, as ever, carry into practice in
all cases where it is possible so to do. They know perfectly
well, that in a few instances a parasiticide will remove — not
disease — but its cause ; they also know, that in cases of incurable
Kufifering palliatives can alone reheve, and use such medicine in
such cases accordingly. Further, there are cases — though far
less numerous than Mr. Annandale supposes — in which a soipcal
operation is requisite, and they avail themselves of such a dernUr
ressort in such instances. There is, however, no novelty here —
such measures have been used by homoeopathists throughout the
ItSSS'Sn^^SS^ NOTABILIA. 637
X«fieir, Oet 1, 1881.
entire history of this method — as the literature of the subject
-abimdaxitly proves.
Why, then, Mr. Axmandale wants to know, do those who
practise homoBopathy admit that they do so ? Because so to
admit is the only method within their reach of forcing the subject
upon the attention of the medical profession. Their experience
assures them of its importance aJike to the physician and the
patient. They know that homoeopathy is superior to the methods
ordinarily practised — and, knowing this, they are bound to say
80. They do not, however, keep the principles of homoBopathic
practice secret, they do not assert their personal superiority to
their medical neighbours ; on the contrary, their method has been
explained in the most public manner possible, and in every
variety of way, and is as open to their medical neighbours as it
is to tiiemselves.
Mr. Annandale's account of the various ways in which his
young friends will meet with homoeopathy is amusing, whatever
else may be said regarding it. '' You will meet with it,'* he said,
'**by being told that homoeopathy had cured patients whom you
have failed to cure, the fact being,'' he continued, '* that patients
become cured sometimes without any treatment, after treatment
of all kinds has failed — nature having at last got a chance.''
The experience Mr. Annandale tells the graduates they will have
to encounter in after life, is probable enough, but his explanation
is a pure assumption. Far wiser would it have been for him to
have advised his hearers carefully to examine each case of the
kind that comes before them, and to ascertain for themselves how
far the resources of homoeopathy have been of advantage to the
patients. There would be more common sense in so doing than
in taking it for granted that it was a simple abstinence from
traditional drugging that had been beneficial.
Mr. Annandale's comparison of homoeopathy to aesthetics is
sheer nonsense, and serves only to exhibit his ignorance of it in
a yet more glaring Ught.
His advice regarding consultations is a little mis-timed. It is
hardly probable that the opinion of an inexperienced Edinburgh
graduate would be sought by an experienced practitioner, either
fis to the nature or diagnosis of disease, and still less as to its
treatment. When these young gentlemen have had the expe-
rience which can alone render their opinion worth having, they
will probably feel more disposed to act upon their own judgment
than upon the ex cathedra utterances of a professor, ignorant of
the subject on which he essayed to instruct them.
The Edinburgh graduate of 1881 will do well to examine the
4}ue8tion involved in homoeopathy for himself. Let him ascertain
by personal clinical experience, whether he cannot cure diseasie
more completely and more frequently by a homoeopathically
^8 HOTABILU. ^"SS^.'SZtml-
selected drag, than by the mere paUiatiTes on T^dihe has bees
hitherto taught to rely. To all who wish to form an independeDi
opinion on the subject, the London School of Homoeopathy and
the wards of the London HomcBopathic Hospital are open. Li
both institutions medical enquirers will be heartily welcome.
THE NEW YORK STATE HOM(EOPATHIG ASYLUM
FOR THE INSANE.
Ths following extract from the annual report of this very weQ
managed institution is interesting : —
'* The results of the year prove anew the striking benefits (^
benign medication, combined with the most modem of hygienie
and sanitary measures for promoting the physical and mental
restoration of insane patients. Increased experience in the use
of drugs after the homoeopathic formula demonstrates the cer-
tainty of their action on the part of some remedies in some
classes of insanity, mania and melancholia, notably melancholia
with stupor being particularly susceptible to the beneficial
action of appropriate medicines. It is with peculiar satisfaction
that we record the cure of several cases of melancholia with stupor,
during the past year, with baptisia Hnetoria; for thus the uses d
this remarkable drug have been developed in a new and untned
field. I now use this remedy with that confidence which happy
experience warrants. The domains of dementia, general paresis,
and epileptic insanity still form ' debatable grounds ' as to
whether, any remedies have, to any marked extent, any prompi
or beneficial effect.
<* Medicine has its happy uses, and a wide and benign scope
of power ; but it has its limits likewise, beyond which it cannot
pass. And yet, even when medicine fails, our efforts to afford
relief may not stop, for we have still always present the vast
resources of diet, air, exercise and diversion. The physician to
the insane who would neglect these and rely upon a course of
drugging (which sometimes proves more hurtiEhl than otherwise^
since drugs, like water and fire, are dangerous elements when
misapplied), will often meet with bitter disappointment, and &il
in accomplishing the fullest results for good which are at his
command.
«« Most of our patients, when admitted, present the appearances
of physical as well as mental degeneration. They are, in fact,
simply worn out and shattered wrecks of humanity. We find
here both disease to combat and dreary wastes to be repaired*
Drugging can no more meet the demands of a wasted system for
repair than the oiling of machinery can become a substitute for
agoSgyaii!^ ROTABILIA, 689
the eoal and water that aie zieeded for the generatioii of steaia
in the engine. That which Tnannfactares good blood, keeps it
pure in its eonises, Bends it in a eeaseless and Tigoroos enrrent
throng the arteries, and eansee it to give tone and enei^ to the
nerves, is a necessity for recuperating from exhaustion. It is a
just demand which the debilitated insane make upon ns for
supply. We reiterate what we have stated in our former reports
that, in addition to cautious medication, we rely largely for the
cure of our eases upon abundant and nourishing food, an un-
failing supply of pure air, a constant attention to personal clean-
liness and the free use of the bath, appropriate out-door exercise,
moderate and judicious labour for ^ose who are strong enou^
to work, profound and protracted rest where that is deemed
advisable, and proper and agreeable diversion for all.
** These are the methods adopted for the treatment of the
insane at this asylum. To get the weak and wasted fat and
strong is our first endeavour. Then comes regular exercise in
the form of walks, drives, strolls over the hills and practice in
the gymnasium. To out-door exercises are added in-door
amusements of an exhilarating nature in the form of weekly
dances. To those accustomed to toil, and to those who are
willing, we furnish, as far as possible, agreeable and moderate
employment. We do not, however, drive our patients to uncon-
genial tasks, since our supreme effort is to restore them to health,
not to make them a source of profit or excessive economy to the
asylum.
"Yet the aggregate of work cheerfuUy performed at this
institution amounts reaUy to a large and notable sum. The
men have been engaged on the farm, in the garden, in keeping
the walks trimmed, in cultivating flowers, in aiding the genertd
work of the wards, kitchen, laundiy and boiler-house ; and the
sum total of this labour for the year amounts to 4,950 days'
work. This is a good showing, especiaily when we consider
that by far the greater number of our men are unable to work at
all.
« In the department for female patients there have been per-
formed 5,820 days' work of sewing. Nearly all the plain work
of the house, such as the manufacture of sheets, pillow-cases,
towels, napkins, dresses and aprons, together with the necessary
mending, has been done by patients. More than this, they have
assisted in keeping the wards in order, and in beautifying the
same by tastefal decorations of autunm leaves and other orna-
mentation for the waUs and furniture. Everyone who is willing
and able can be furnished with something light and agreeable to
do, even if it is not remarkably profitable."
640 ifOTABOU. *S!SJ*S?72?
fieiiew. OeL 1. IflBL
THE CABLSBAD WATERS TREATMENT.
In a paper read at the Philadelphia Medical Society (PhU, Med.
Times, May 7th), Dr. Bmen, after admittmg the Valae of the
Oarisbad salt (especially when administered highly dOnted vhilst
fasting), observes that it docs not represent the waters as they
issne from their natural sonrces. It is, indeed, afler all, only
Glauber's salt; while the waters, in addition, also contain (in the
pint) thirteen grains of carbonate of sodinm and two of stdph&le
of sodium, besides a fair amount of chloride of sodium, some
carbonate of lime and magnesium, with free carbonic acid, at a
temperature varying from 122^ to 166^ F. Speaking from
personal experience at Carlsbad, he says that the cases resortmg
thither may be divided into three classes — 1. Enlargement of the
liver and spleen, as a consequence of repeated congestions, induced
by chronic dyspepsia or chronic malarial disease ; interstitial
hepatitis, or the primary stage of cirrhosis, especially wbeo
jaundice and insufficient intestinal digestion persist ; and the
cases of chronic indigestion with deficient assimilation, whether
or not constipation be a prominent symptom. 2. Case^ of
chronic rheumatism or gout. 8. Cases of the gouty state, or
those obscure cases attended with renal congestion or inactivity,
as evidenced by the passage of a deficient amount of urine of low
specific gravity, usually associated with deficient vaso -motor tonus.
These cases are subject to transient attacks of headache as
hysterical nervousness.
The springs differ from each other chiefly in temperature and
in the amount of carbonic acid. Patients usually rise at six, and
spend about two hours at the springs, taking at fifteen minutes'
interval three or four ounces of the water. Beginners usually
indulge in from twelve to sixteen ounces a day, and the amount
is often carried up to twenty-four or thirty ounces. Exercise is
taken while drinking the waters. A strict diet is necessary for
the success of '* the cure,'* and consists of a light breakfast of
eggs, bread, and coffee, with meat (steak or chi<^en) at noon ;
the same meal being repeated in the evening. No one under
treatment must venture on a table d'hote, or even a more liberal
meal. Early hours and moderate exercise are insif^tcd upon.
Most persons experience a laxative action, ajthough some require
compound liquorice powder to obtain motions. Without exception,
individuals experience the most profound exhaustion, and extreme
anaemia usually ensues. The urine is usually notably increased,
and is sometimes of a blackish-green colour, the stools also being
often greenish. Notwithstanding these effects, the treatment is
contLDued for three or four weeks, when the patient is sent to
Ischl, St. Moritz, or some other springs, the waters of which
contain iron, and then the blood crasis is restored. In persons
lK3SSf<Sras?** ;»0TABiLUi 641
^wi^akened by previous long illness, recuperation is very slow ;
and I>r. Bmen believes that often the treatment is pushed too far
in such cases. Sir Henry Thompson believes that as good an
effect is produced by six to eight ounces of the water daily for six
•or seven weeks as by the usual three-weeks course of larger doses.
In serious cases a repetition of the course every three or four
months is desirable if the patient's strength will bear it, and too
much mjast not be expected from a single course. Dr. Bruen
believes that the restriction placed on articles of diet contributes
much to the favourable results. Thus, alcohol or fermented
liquors must either be relinquished or given only in the most
diluted and purest form ; sugar, fatty matters, butter, cream, and
fruits are prescribed ; while vegetables and good fish are
unattainable.
The '< after-cure " consists in sending the patient to some
mountainous resort possessing a ferruginous spring, two places
being just now in vogue — ^viz., Ischl in the Tyrol, and St. Moritz
in the Engadine. Dr. Bruen gives the preference to Ischl on
account of its equable climate, good hotels and interesting
adjacent country. At St. Moritz the climate is variable, and
there is but one month in which it is really comfortable — viz.,
July or August, as the case may be ; and even then the temper-
ature may vary fifteen or twenty degrees. The climate is too
cold (60° to 65° Fahr.) for amemic people, while the hotel
accommodation and the drainage are bolli bad. The waters are,
however, good, and containing only a small proportion of iron,
are well digested ; and baths consisting of the same water, heated
as required, are very agreeable and exhilarating. As a careful
reparative diet is of high importance, and is not obtainable in
this locality, Dr. Bruen believes it preferable after the " cure **
to return home, even at the cost of having to repair to Carlsbad
a second time. — Medical Times and Gazette.
HOM(EOPATHY IN THE ISLE OF THANET.
While discussions on homoeopathy versus allopathy have been
going on of late in the medical journals and tiie Times^ and in
many of the provincial papers, the battle has likewise been
•carried on in the KerU Argus by our esteemed confrh-e. Dr.
Harmar Smith, of Bamsgate. Dr. Smith, in a very spirited
manner, gave a public lecture on homoeopathy, and this has
been the casus belli. Dr. Smith has waged .the war almost
single-handed, and of course has the best of the argument.
[Newspaper controversies may be thought by many to be futOe,
but we think otherwise. The profession as well as the public
require to be enlightened, and the more clearly and frequently
4he doctrines of homoeopathy are brought before the public.
642 irOTABILIA.
', otL t, isn.
iogeXtker with the flhallow lepKes of the oU-fldiool, ihe moro is
the good cause of Hahnemeim forwaided. We eongrsiohle
Br. Hannar Smith on the paUie spirit he has shown, and tmsi
he wiU find his reward in the conseqnent spread of a desire for
honuBopathie treatment in Bam^gate and the neighbooring
important watering pkees.
BUTTERFLIES AND ALPINE FLOWERS.
Db. Hkbmamk Muixeb, who has long been well known as one of
the most zealoas stadents in the new flower-lore, has jnst
published, at Leipzig, a most interesting volnme eontaining the
resnlts of six years' inrestigations of plant fertilisation among
the high Alps. What mainly engages Dr. MuUer's attention is
the modification which flowers of the plains undergo in adaptation
to a mountain fife ; and, in order to arrive at definite oondosiona,
he has stationed himself day after day, during the summer
months, among the belt of pastures which intervenes between
the snow-line and the highest limit of pine forests, watching,
noting down, and if possible catching all tiie insects which visited
certain special groups of blossoms during many hours etxi'
secutively. He is thus enabled to show by regular statistics —
which he schedules with true German patience and accuracy —
what are the particular set^ of insect fertilisers to which eadi
species of mountain plant has adapted itself. It has long been
noticed that while bees and beetles, two of the most important
groups of flower-fertilisers are relatively most numerous on the
plains, flies are somewhat more common at greater heights, while
butteiflies are relatively far more frequent along &e hi^er
mountain slopes. But Dr. MiUler goes much beyond such rou^
generaHsations as these. He treats the matter numerically, and
gives actual per-centages in place of mere records of general
impressions. For example, he finds that for every 100 visits
of butterflies to flowers in the plains there are 614 above &e
forest-line ; while for every 100 visits of bees and their allies
in the plains there are only 85 above the forest-line. In other
words, on the mountains the butterflies increase more than
sixfold, whereas the bees decrease by nearly two-thirds.
From these difierences in the insect fauna of the plains and
the mountains it naturally follows that many plants which spread
from the valleys to the Alpine pastures must undergo certain
changes of form 'or colour, in adaptation to their new haunts*
For § flowers which lay themselves out for bees or beetles make
their way into regions mainly tenanted by moths and butterfliet,
they must either fit themselves for fertiHsation by new agencies
or else die out altogether for want of setting seed. Dr. Muller's
observations now show almost conclusively that all the peea-
Marities of larger size and more brilliant colour which ererjboij
NOTABIUA. 048
has notified in the flowers of the upland paatoree are striotly
oorrelated with this difference in the insect fertilisers. In short,
Alpine blossoms are in many oases valley blossoms adapted to-
bntterfly tastes and butterfly habits. Sometimes, it is trae, the
normal form and hne of certain flowers are eqnally adapted to
either class of visitor. Thns the pea*blossoms» vetches, and
other like species, are fertilised in the lowlands by seventy-three
bees to every seventeen butterflies ; while in the Alps they are*
fertilised in the proportion of only forty bees to every fiffy-six
butterflies. But in an immense number of cases the flowers
necessarily undergo special modification, because their lowland
shape prevents the possibility of their fertilisation by any insects-
except bees. For instance, the gentians of the plains have wide
tubes, through which the bees creep to get at tibe honey, and in
so doing brush the pollen from one blossom against the stigma<
of anotibter. But in such blossoms a butterfly can insert his
slender proboscis and steal all the honey without touching the
stamens at all, and so without doing the plant any service in.
return. Accordingly, Dr. MiiUer points out that the mountain
gentians have, on the contrary, long and narrow tubes, so
arranged that the proboscis of the butterfly must come in contact
with &e pollen before it can reach the nectary. In another genua,
the mouth of the lowland blossom has been entirely closed in the
mountain form, and a special butterfly-door has been developed
on the upper lip for the accommodation of the new guests ; while a-
pair of bright violet valves on either side help to attract the
colour-loving butterflies, and to point out to ^em the path to-
the honey. An intermediate form, growing in the mid-slopes,,
has both the bee-mouth and the butterfly-door, and is fertilised
by both kinds of insects alike.
It is not only in such structural details that mountain blossoms
undergo modification in adaptation to their altered habitat.
Alpine flowers are almost always larger and more brilliantly
coloured than their congeners of the plains ; and they tend to
grow gregariously, in considerable patches, as in the case of
those masses of blue gentians which every traveller must have
observed hanging in belts on the sides of Uie Bernese Oberland
in early spring. The reason is that butterflies flit very high and
far, and so require large fields of bright colour to attract them:
while bees, which fly low and pass from one flower to another in
its immediate neighbourhood, are sufficiently enticed by small
and relatively inconspicuous blossoms, such as thyme or lavender..
Dr. Mtdler shows how the brilliant and scented pinks, which are
butterfly-flowers, have been probably developed from certain
pale and scentless congeners which are fly-flowers. On the other
hand, the butterfly is not particular as to minutei distinctions of
hue ; all it asks for is plenty of red, blue, or yellow, and it is-
644 OBITUABY. ■*'S!£,
Benbw,Oet.l,tBBL
satisfied as long as it can see its blossoms a&r off: whereas the
careful, honey-storing bee, having to make provision for the
hive, not only to gratify its own errant tastes, sticks closely to
one kind of flower at a time, and is therefore benefited by
marked distinctions of colom* between one species and its nearest
allies. Hence.it happens that bee-flowers are distingoished by
great variety of hne between jthe different species of a single
genus. In this way Dr. Miiller acconnts for the very varied
colours of the dead-nettles and the clovers. The German investi-
gator also confirms an observation already pabUshed in this
country that many butterflies display a marked liking for flowers
of the same colour as themselves : a point of taste which is of
importance from its bearing on the curious question of selective pre-
ference on the part of insects for beautiful or variegated mates, which
Mr. Darwin has so fully worked out from another stand-point.
It is worth notice, too, that enquiries of this sort, purely
otiose and of mere scientific interest as they seem at first sight,
are yet not always without some practical value. For many
years common English clover had been sown annually in New
Zealand from imported seed ; but the plants had never set any
seed of their own, and the cost of importation was a serious item
to the sheep-farmers. Mr. Darwin had already pointed out,
however, that clover is entirely fertilised by humble-bees, which
do not exist in New Zealand ; and some seasons since a small
cargo of humble-bees was shipped to the colony, where they
established themselves as readily as all European plants and
animals almost invariably do there. The clover has since began
to sow itself. In fact, every year horticulturists are now more
and more distinctly recognising the great importance of insects
in all matters of acclimatisation and ^e setting of fruit or soeds.
— St. James's QazetU, Feb. 19th, 1881.
OBITUARY,
THOMAS R. LEADAM, M.D., M.R.C.S. (Eng.) ; L.R.C.P.(Edin.)
We regret to have to record the death, at the age of 72, of one who
was for many years a prominent figure in the homoeopathic worlds
Thomas Robinson Leadam was bom on the 22nd November,
1809, and was the third of a generation of medical practitioners,
his father and grandfather having been in the profession. After
leaving Merch^t Taylors' School he studied at Guy's and the
London Hospitals, and had charge of a maternity charity before
commencing private practice, with the view of perfecting him-
self in midwifery, which branch he always made a speciality. He
took the diploma of the Apothecaries' Company in 1680, and
that of the College of Surgeons in 1832. During the first oai-
i)reak of cholera, he had charge of a ward in the workhouse of
ISS^^graSr OBITUABY. e45-
Bt. John's parish, specially set apart for eholera patients. In
1886, he entered into partnership with his father, married his
first wife in that year, but was left a widower with two sons in
1889. This affliction seriously affected his health for some timeT
In 1888, he met a homceopathio doctor, whose name is forgotten,
at the table of the celebrated Dr. ElHotson, who succeeded in.
interesting Leadam in homoeopathy so far as to induce him to
buy a book and a case of medicines. He made six trials of it,
three were successful, the other three being failures, and he then
gave up further thought of the new system. In 1844, he was
appointed an out-door parochial medical officer, which post he
retained for five years.
His father died in 1845, leaving Leadam with the whole burden-
of the practice. In 1846, he married a second time. In 1848, he
bad a case which caused him much anxiety. A middle-aged woman
was liable to frequent threatenings of apoplexy ; she l^ed being
enpped, but Leadam felt that he was really doing her harm, the good
being only apparent and temporary. He then bethought him of his
former homoBopathic studies, resolved to give the system another
trial, and with the aid of his new remedies he cured his patients
speedily. This result induced him to study homoeopathy thoroughly,
and to put it anew to the test in several severe cases of acute
disease. Mrs. Leadam well remembers his mingled anxiety and.
delight at the results he obtained, his large private and parish prac-
tice affording him ample field for testing the truth of homoeopathy.
From this time he became an enthusiastic homoeopath, working'
away quietly till he was prepared to come out openly as a
homoeopath, which he did in 1850, settling in Wyndham Place,
Bryanston Square, and disposing of his former practice to a
partner whom he had previously taken. Before leaving his
practice, the cholera broke out again in 1849, and Mr. Leadam
had wonderful success from homoeopathic treatment in the cases
under his charge. He treated over 1,500 oases, many of them
of a very severe type. On his coming out opesJy as a homoeo-
path, Mr. Leadam, being of a sensitive nature, felt keenly the
loss of many of his former professional acquaintances, but when
truth was at stake, he considered private feelings of secondary
importance. He started a dispensary in Adam Street, and another
in Welbeck Street, and when the hospital in Golden Square
was opened, he was appointed to the care of the diseases of
women and children, which post he retained till 1878. During
this period he delivered a course of lectures on diseases of
women. From the time that he began homoeopathic practice,
he devoted himself specially to his favourite branch, obstetrics-
and gynaecology, his knowledge and skill in this department being
universally recognised and appreciated by his patients and his con-
frhreSf and eamingfor him the leading consultingpractice in this line-
In 1858, he pablithed a -wciA oa " Diseeues of Women and
Ckildrm" for which he reeehred the diploma of H.D., from
<IleTehmd, Ohio, U.S. In 1867, he took the diploma of L JLCP.,
^Edinborgh.
Till the aatomn of 1878, Dr. Leadam eonftisaed to eajaj as
ertenaiTe practice, and was never so happy as when he was hard
^woik. In that year, owing to severe amieties and heavy
peemiiary losses in New Zealand investments, he had a sli^
paralytic stroke, Mrs. Tieadam noticing when he came down to
hreakfost on his birthday, that his face was drawn to one side.
He always had a presentiment or dread of being paralysed, and
though he rallied from this attack, he was maeh depressed,
-owing to the onset soon after of a large carbmiele in his right
hand. From this time it was noticed that he began to fidl, both
mentally and bodily, and thon^ he was able to hold on in
practice till 1876, his friends then strongly advised him to retire.
This he did, finally, in March, 1877, retiring to Mortimer, in
Berkshire. Ld 1878, he had another stroke of paralysis, and again
in 1879, leaving him in an almost h^less condition. In
Avgost, of the present year, he had another attack, and he sank
peacefolly on the 6th of September.
Dr. Lctfidam was nniversally beloved, and we know that when he
retired from practice his patients felt his loss deeply, not only as
a physician, skiUiilandkmd, but as a friend in whom they could
tmst. He was always looked up to by his professional brethren
as the soul of honour, and now that he is taken to his rest, we,
from onr personal knowledge of him, can look back on hia life as
that of a perfect gentleman, a genial and kind friend, and a
hardworking physician, who did maeh for the caose of homoeo-
pathy. HeHvedto a good age, and we can only regret that, after
so many years of hard work, his years of retirement afforded him so
little enjoyment, owing to the gSradoal breaking np of his health.
Dr. Leadam leaves a widow and a frunily of five sons and seven
daughters to deplore his loss.
CORRESPONDENCE.
LONDON SCHOOL OP HOMOEOPATHY.
To ths Editon of ths Monthly HomaopaMe Btoimo.
Gentlemen, — ^Will yon kindly insert the following report, which
it is intended to bring forwajrd for discussion at tiie Special
(General Meeting of the School.
I hope those interested in the maintenance of a school for the
teaching of medicine frx)m its homoeopathic point of view will
rally ronnd the carefrdly revised scheme, and not only continae
saygnrag* «>BMflPowi>BHCT. 647
iheir Babaoriptions, bat indnee their Mends and patients to ffve
Jiberally acooiding to their means towards not only the support
of the presMit school, bat to its increase, so that it may
ultimately become an established medical school, with complete
recognition.
Yonrs truly,
William Bates, M.D.9
B89 Lansdowne Place, Brighton* Hon, 8sc.
To BB BUBUITTED TO THB BfECIAL QbNBBAL MsBTIMa TO BS
BBLD ON TUBSDAT, OoTOBBB 4tH, AT 5 P.M.
lUport of the 8ub'eommitte$ appointed on March 14th to draw
up a report of the changes needed in the Constitution and Rules
of the London School of Honueopathy at the end of the proba-
tUmary period of five years, ending December 15^, 1881, and
re^appointed at the Annual Meeting.
The snb-committee have, as requested at the annual meeting
lield April 12th, 1881, reconsidered the whole question, and
conclude that it is betteor to continae the delivery of —
Isily* The Annual Hahnemann Lecture, as the introductory
lecture to the winter session.
:2ndly. The Lectureship on Materia Medica and Therapeutics,
embracing a complete exposition of the art and science of
homcBopathy in relation to remedial agents.
■Srdly. The Lectureship on Principles and Practice of Medicine,
embracing a complete exposition of the art and science of
homoeopathic medicine.
4thly. A Lectureship on the Institutes of Homoeopathy, em-
bracing its literature and principles.
4>thly. The practical instruction, by clinical lectures and other-
wise, of students, at the bedside and in dispensary practice,
in any hospital or dispensary in which homoeopathy is
practised in such a manner as to be satis&ctory to the
medical council of the school.
6tbly. That such other lectureships as may from time to time
appear to the authorities to be desirable, may be added to
the school until a complete medical school is constituted.
As to the constitution of the school, it appears to the sub*
•committee that it will be desirable to simplify its executive.
The following modification would probably meet all require-
ments: a President; a Treasurer; three Trustees and two
honorary Secretaries ; an Executive Committee, consisting of not
less than six Governors, elected at the annual meeting each year ;
A Finance Committee, consisting of three members, one being a
Trustee, the Treasurer, and one of the Honorary Secretaries. A
Medical Council, consisting of medical Governors — also elected
fit the annual meeting each year.
648 OOBBESPOHPfiNTS^ *'*'^
Bcww, OoL 1, U8L
The sub-commiUee zecommend that the roles add laws of the
London School of HonuBopaihy should be remodelled on the
aboYe basis, and that a sab-committee shoold be appointed bj
the meeting to prepare and submit revised rules for the fdtme
guidance of the school to the next general meeting of Bubscribas
and donors on Thursday, 15th of December, next ensuing. It
will be seen that the aboye scheme differs materially from that
submitted to the last annual meeting. On enquiry it seems thai
the scheme then presented does not, at present, meet with una-
nimity of approval from those deeply interested in the welfare of
the hospital. In the absence of absolute unanimity it is better
to defer the question of closer union of the school with the
hospital, for future consideration.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
^% We eamnot undertake to relntm tweeted manmeripte*
GontribatorB and GoRespondeDtB an requested to notice the alteration
in the address of one of the Editors of this Review.
Dr. Bebbidob,— We axe obliged to yon for yonr ooireetion. The faet
of TTaiiinATTiatin bavlng been acquainted with the existence of the acaziu,
liiyi escaped the notice of the writer of the article.
Commnnications, Ac, have been leoeiTed from Dr. Hashkos, Major
Vauohan-Moboan, and Captain Matcock f London); Dr. Baixs
(Brighton) ; Dr. Hati<e (Bocbdale) ; Dr. Shabp (Bagby) ; Dr. StaiOiEX
WxiiDB (Nottingham) ; Dr. Leb (Philadelphia); Dr. Casaii (Mentone), ko^
BOOKS RECEIVED.
The Tratuaetiotu of the Intematumal Convewtum held in I^ondan^ 188U
— The Homaopathie World. London. — The Students* Journal, London.—
The Chemitt and Druggist. London. — Burgoyne*8 Monthly Journal of
Pharmacy, London. — Annual Report of the Canterbury Homaopathic Dit-
pewary. — The Hahnemannian Monthly. Philadelphia. — The New England
Medical Gazette. Boston. — The Medical Advance. CindnnatL — The Medi-
cal Call. De Qnincy. — The United States Medical Investigator. Chicago. —
The Homaopathic Physician. Philadelphia. — The Clinical Review. St
Louis. — The Therapeutic Gazette. Detroit. — The Medical Counsellor.
Chicago. — The American Observer. Detroit. — Homaopathic Journal of
Obstetrics. August. NewTork. — Addrees of the Prendent of the American
instituU of Homaopatky. 1881.~XMrt Medical. Paris.— BiUiotAdffiM
Homaopathique. Paris. — Revue Bomaopatthique Beige. Brussels. — AUge-
meine Horn. Zeitung. Leipsio. — El Criterio Medico. Madrid. — BolOiM
ClinicodellnetitutoHomaopatieode Madrid. — LaReforma Mediea. Medoo.
Papers, Dispensary Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. PopB, 21, Heniietta Street, Cavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D. Drcv
Bbowm, 29, Seymour Street, Portman Square, W. AdYertiaements and
Business Communications to be sent to Messrs. £. Gould & Soy*
£9, Moorgate Street, B.C.
SSSSf^T^^rS?^* PWSBDOM OP OPINION. 649
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REVIEW,
THE DAWN OF FREEDOM OF OPINION IN
MEDICINE.
The events of the last few months, so far as they have
borne upon homoeopathy, have done good service in
drawing professional attention to the subject. They have
brought into prominence the ignorance, which so exten-
sively exists among medical men, as to what homoeopathy
means, what it is, and how it is carried into practice ; and,
at the same time, have displayed the intolerance with which
it is regarded. '' Intolerance," said Mr. EDlward the other
day at St. George's Hospital, '* has always been associated
with ignorance." We know no more striking example of
this, than that afforded by the resolutions of the British
Medical Association, passed thirty years ago. They were
essentially intolerant of homoeopathy, and of all who,
understanding and appreciating it, practised homoeopathi-
cally, while they were passed by a body of men not one of
whom imd^rstood anything whatever about the subject
he denounced, and vehemently refused to tolerate. Of
these the late Dr. Hobneb, of Hull, was one. On his
return from Brighton, after the meeting, he was requested
by a few of his medical friends in Hall to strengthen
them in their opposition .to homoeopathy by giving them a
lecture upon it, so as to provide them with arguments-
No. 11, Vo]. 25. 2 IF
650 FEBBDOH OF OPINIOS. *S^!r^.' ifim.
j^ainst it. For the first time h« felt hie igooranoe. He
knew nothing about homceopabhy. Bot, as he had pro-
mised to lectore on it, be set to work to examine the
eabject, and this with the Role object of exposing what,
he aeenmed, were its folhicies. To this end he read several
bookBf setting forth its principles and method. And, hj
wa; of demonstrating its worthlessneBs, he tested homceo-
pntbically indicated medicines in disease. To his sarfttise
his patients, so treated, improved as he had never seen
them improved by medicine before. Suffice it to say, his
lecture was not delivered. He could but have told his
friends what he had seen, and the conclusions at which he
had arriyed — and these were precisely the reverse of those
they desired to hsten to I
Every member of that Association was as ignorant of the
subject as was Dr. Hobneb. This ignorance is slowly being
dispelled, and, in proportion as it is so, does toleration
become more pronounced. Dr. Bbibtowe, for example,
though far from accepting bomceopathy as true, chiefly we
^oabt not because he has merely read about it, and has
not seen homceopatbically selected medicines prescribed,
knows yet enough to compel him to exhibit, towards
medical men practising homieopathy, a degree of toleration
previously unknown in this country. Not only does he
exhibit such toleration himself, but he advocates its eshi-
bitioQ by others; and he does this at the aonaal meeting
of the very Association which has made a resolution not to
tolerate homteopathy a sine qud non of memberahip !
'^hat there are many members of the profession who view
elations which ought to subsist between bomceopathie
Qon-homceopathio practitioners much in the same way
) Dr. Bbistowe and Mr. Hutohinsoh, we do not doubt,
they have hitherto felt unable to speak out, or have
unwilling to risk a possible loss of professional statni
S^yjrrSr fbebdom of opinion. 651
by doing so. They hare been nnoonsciouB of their real
strength. Now, however, that men so prominent, and of
snch reputation, have expressed snch sentiments, they are
beginning to show that courage of their opinions which
required some well ascertained sense of safety to display
itself openly.
A large, and we doubt not a very large proportion of the
profession, are as ignorant now of what homceopathy is, as
were the members of the Association who met at Brighton
thirty years ago ; and therefore they are as intolerant of
any discussion of its principles, of any intercourse with
those who believe it, as were their fathers. Some of these
men have essayed to show that all their fellow membi^rs
are as ignorant, as narrow, and as intolerant as themselves.
For example, we find that a special meeting of the Lanca*
shire and Cheshire Branch of the British Medical Associa-
tion was held at Liverpool on the 21st of September, for
the purpose of once more condemning homoeopathy and
homoeopaths to perpetual ostracism. Dr. B. G. Bbown, of
Preston, occupied the chair.
The meeting was summoned by circular : '< To take into con-
sideration the subject of consultations with homoeopathic
practitioners, bearing in mind the resolutioDS passed thereon by
the Association in 1858 and 1861, and also the late editorial
articles in the Journal, as well as the addresses in Medicine and
Surgery delivered at the late meeting at Ryde ; and to pass snch
resolutions as may be deemed desirable in the interests of the
profession and the Association."
Nearly eighty members were present.
The resolutions on this subject, passed by the Provincial
Medical and Surgical Association in 1851 and 1852, and those
passed by the British Medical Association in 1858 aud 1861, were
read by the Secretary.
Dr. Fitzpatrick of Liverpool moved, and Mr. Lund of
Manchester seconded, the following resolutions.
2 u— a
652 FREEDOM OF OPINION. ^£SL
jB0Vi0Wf KOT* If ibBI«
1. ''That this meeting repeats and confirms the resohildans
passed hy the Association at the meetings held at Brighton m
1851, and at Oiford in 1852, and at Canterbniy in 1861, in all
that relates to the practice of homoeopathy and the recognition of
its practitioners by the members of the medical body."
2. *' That this meeting considers that it is inconsistent with
professional honour and honesty for practitioners of medieine or
surgery to meet homoeopathists in consultation, and r^udiates
the views expressed by the readers of addresses in medicine and
surgery of the late meeting at Byde."
On the consideration of the first resolution, an amendment
was moved by Dr. H. Lowndes, of liverpool, and seconded bj
Mr. Hakes, of Liverpool :
** That in the opinion of this meeting, every member of the
British Medical Association is entitled to the freest exercise of
his own individual judgment in regard to the question of meeting
in consultation gentlemen who practise homoBopathy.*'
After a prolonged discussion, in which Drs. Waters and Glaze-
brook and Mr. Manifold of Liverpool, Drs. Leech, Borchardi,
Samelson, Boss, CuUingworth, Sinclair, and Messrs. Walmsley
and Emrys Jones of Manchester, Dr. Colley March of Bochdale,
Dr. Godson of Cheadle, and others, took part, the vote was
taken, when 23 voted for the amendment and 26 against.
The amendment being lost, the previous question was then
moved by Dr. Harris of Birkenhead, and seconded by Mr. Dacre
Fox of Manchester. Dr. Fitzpatrick then withdrew his resola-
tions, and the previous question was agreed to nsm, con.
One can easily imagine the consternation v^ith which
sach a revelation, as that with which this meeting termi-
nated, must have been received by those who, trusting too
implicitly that their fellow members had, like themselves,
learned nothing and forgotten nothing during thirty years,
Iiad called upon them once more to repudiate homoeopatfay
and homoeopaths ! We can fancy the look of happy con-
fidence with which the proposer of the resolution and his
Mrlier Bupporters would have addressed the meeting, and
JSSSSfyjrrSff^ fbbedom of opinion, 658
liow this would gradually give way as views broader and
more intelligent foand expression, nntil a sense of dismay
•and bewilderment took possession of them when they
fonnd that in a large meeting of the Branch, one in which
forty -nine members took part in the discussion^ they could
not carry their resolutions !
We have little or no doubt that this meeting very fairly
reflects medical opinion everywhere. The report of the
meeting, which we have quoted from the Association
Journal, is brief, and hence Dr. Lowndes, who moved the
amendment, thought it right to send for publication in the
journal a statement of the line of argument he took in
proposing it. This he did in the following letter : —
Sib — ^At the meeting of the Laneashire and Cheshire Branch
held here a few days ago, the amendment I brought forward in
favour of perfect freedom of individual 'judgment was rejected by
a narrow majority. The excellent but brief report of. the meeting
did not and could not give the speeches delivered on the occasion^
though some of them were extremely interesting.
I simply explained that I had long felt that all practitioners, as
soon as they were duly qualified, were entitled to perfect freedom
-of thought and action, might freely use all such remedies as com-
mended themselves, and might meet whoever could give them
assistance in their art, and might avail themselves freely of aQ
the discoveries, of whatever kind, the unknown future may bring
forth ; that absolute freedom of thought was the very breath of
our nostrils. Also, that an association fomided for scientific and
social purposes degraded itself into a trades* union, or a Boycott-
ing machine, when it hampered and harassed its members by
telling them what line of practice they were not to adopt, and
what kind of practitioners they were not to meet.
I wish now to be permitted to expatiate a little more freely on
this subject, and I will try not to be tedious. The question
then, to my mind, we have to consider is, not whether it is right
4xr expedient to meet certain practitioners ourselves, but whether
654 FBEEDOM OF OPINION. ^'tS^
aBfiew.KaT. UiaSL
it 18 right for Qfl^to compel others not to meet them ; to aaj to
others, ** You must not and shall not meet them, and jou must
aot and shall not meet anyone ebe that meets them.'* '' Most "
and ** shall " are words highly distasteM to the En^ish mind.
• And what is the penalty to he exacted for meeting these
tabooed' gentlemen ? Expulsion from this Association, the only
association that bands the profession together, and one which,
looked at in its scientific and social aspects, commands onr hi^
respect, and with many of us, a much warmer feeling. It is
difficnit now to conceive how resolutions of so arbitrary a cha-
racter could ever have been passed unanimously by our meetings.
If some despotic monarch had commanded us not to meet these
gentlemen, or for that matter if he had commanded us to meet
them (a thing not^one whit more tyrannical), how we ^ouM
have rebeUed, or how servile we should have thought ourselves if
we had submitted.
It may be said that we live in strange times, and that strange
diseases demand strange remedies. But the times are always
strange. Th^re have been the days of Dr. Sangrado ; there hare
been the grand times of Louis XIY., when the state of the pro-
fession afforded so delightful a field for Moliere to revel in. And
here I must venture to give a translation 1 once made of a little
scene from this writer's U Amour Medeciny which sounds strangeiy
familiar to medical ears.
A consultation of doctors is going on ; each has already relaled
what a long round of visits he has paid, and what distances into
the country he has been; then M. Tomes says, *' By-the-bye,
now, what do you think of the quarrel between the two doctors,
Theophraste and Artemius, for it is a matter on which the
whole profession is divided ? "
M. Defonandres : '* For my part, I am for Artemius.'*
M. Tomes : And so am I. Very true, his advice, as people
say, may have killed the patient, and that of Theophraste may
have been much better; stifl, the latter did wrong under the
eircumstances, and ought not to have had a different opinioD
from his senior. What say you ? "
bS^ncTHSS!^ fbeebom of opinion. 665
M. Defonandres : ''I quite agree. Formalities must be
observed, happen what may."
M. Tomes : *' For my part, I am as strict as the deuce,
nnlesB it be among Mends ; and one day we had met, three
others of us, with a strange physician, for a consultation, when
I stopped the whole affair and would not allow an opinion to be
given on the case if things were not done in order. The people
in the house pressed us all they could, and the malady was veiy
urgent, but I would not yield a bit, and the patient died bravely
during the dispute."
M. Defonandres : '* It is very right to teach people how to
conduct themselves, and to bring them to a sense of their errors."
M. Tomes : ''A man dead is but a man dead, and makes no
matter; but a formality neglected does a notable mischief to the
whole medical profession."
The public in those days, as in these, may have reasonably
been puzzled with the formalities of the profession ; and, while
they laughed, it must still have been with an uncomfortable
feeling that things were not altogether arranged for their benefit.
I have a strong opinion that the relations between tiiie pro-
fession and the public can never be quite satisfactory until every
practitioner has the free use pf his own independent judgment as
to whom he shall meet, and whom he shall decline to meet. He
can then give, if he pleases, reasons that may commend them-
selves to people's common sense, and not be obliged to confess
that he is simply obeying the dictum of others. But, inde-
pendently of the question of expediency, every man's right to
this measure of freedom is surely indefeasible.
My amendment, as your readers may know, was simply this :
'* That, in the opinion of this meeting, every member of the
British Medical Association is entitled to the freest use of his
own independent judgment in regard to the question of meeting
gentlemen who practise homoeopathy."
In conclusion, I willingly concede to the &amers of the reso-
lutions, that seem now so archaic, the merit of the best inten-
tions, and of a perfervid zeal for the honour and dignity of a
656 FBEEDOM or opnnoN. "SSIjSSJTmS!
profesnon that happens, however, to be not altogether miable to
stand without artificial bnttressea. — ^I am, air, yoim obedieatij,
lirerpooU September 26th, 1881. Hxxbt Lowxdes.
Other letters, exhibiting precisely the same kind of
feelingy have appeared in the medical jocumals. Mean-
while the jonmal of the Association makes no sign, hnt
ihe Lancet and the Medical Press and Circular are
obTionsly much depressed at the oatlook. The comments
of the former on the Liverpool meeting are as follows : —
'* The ill-advised utterances of leading members of the profes-
sion at Byde, following upon the line of action pursued by another
leading member in the recent case of an ' illustrious invalid,'
have already borne bad fruit. The Lancashire and Cheshire
Branch of the British Medical Association has — ^by a very small
minority, it is true, but substantially — ^refused to affirm the
unwritten law of the profession, that the practitioners of sdeu-
tific medicine shall not meet homoeopaths in consultation. This
is a grave decision, and one of the first questions which it
suggests, after the regrettable episodes of the General Meeting at
Byde, is whether the profession is to understand that the British
Medical Association, with its branches, is wholly given over to a
libertine disregard of honour and consistency ?*'
In the teeth of each an expression of opinion on die
part of the members of the Lancashire and Cheshire
Branch, it further says : ^' If the British Medical Asso-
ciation is to be nnderstood as sanctioning the contempt of
moral obligation involved in the pretended consultation of
ordinary practitioners of medicine with the professors of a
* system,* it will become a question whether those
members of our cloth who retain their self-respect can
continne members of the Association." Does the Lancet
mean to suggest that men like Dr. Lowndes and Mr.
Hakes, and those who supported them, have lost their
" self-respect?"
On more than one occasion have the Lancet andAfedicol
Press appealed to the Committee of the Council of the
iBS^Jr^TuM^ FB1BI>0M OF OPINION. 667
ABSociation for a pronunciamento deBonncing all pro-
fessional intercourse between homoeopathio and non-
homoeopathic practitioners, and repudiating the more
liberal views uttered at Byde; bat the Council has met,
■and its members have separated without perpetrating such
an act of stupidity, such an anachronism.
It is thus perfectly clear that the knell of intolerance
•has begun to toll. It has done so in obedience to
increased knowledge. Knowledge of a subject and in-
»tolerance of its discussion are incompatibles. We desire
that the existing knowledge of homoeopathy should
increase until we have not merely toleration of it, but its
fall and complete appreciation. To this end it behoves us
to use every means in our power. Oar literature must be
increased and more freely disseminated. Our school must
.be supported, and enquirers, as to what homceopathy is
and how it is practised, invited and encouraged to attend
its lectures. We are glad to know that the classes this
year are much more fully attended than they have been
previously. The school forms a centre at which in-
struction is not only given by lecturing, but by replies to
questions put by enquirers, and by assisting them to test
homoeopathy for themselves. Its organisation is, as our
readers will have learned from our last number, about to be
revised. The tentative or experimental shape it received
five years ago is about to be re-modelled, and to be so
framed as to ensure its permanency. We trust that it will
receive a full measure of support from all who are in-
terested in extending a knowledge of homoeopathy. Never
before was an institution of the kind more necessary, never
before did the one we have show more evident signs of
beiog a success, or of being fftvourably regarded by those
4m whose behalf it has been instituted.
668 - BAPTI0IA TIKCTORIA. ^^bI^^vSHuws^.
STUDIES IN THE MATERIA MEDICA.
By D. Dyge Brown, MJu> M.D.,
PbyaiciAa to tbe London Homoeopathic Hospital, and Lectnxer oa
Praotice of Medicine in the London School of Homceopathy.
No. XI, — Baptisia Tinctoria (Wild Indigo J.
Baptisia is one of the most valaable gifts we have fix)iii
America. It takes a very high rank in our Materia
Medica, being beautifully limited in its sphere of action^
but of inestimable service in that sphere. It is one of
the few medicines we possess which produce a genuine
pyrexia. It has, in fact, two great foci of action.
1, in fever of a certain type, and 2, in acute catarrh of
mucous membrane. It meets several medicines at certain
points, viz., aconite, beUadonna, bryoniay rhus, mercuriui,
gelseminmy arsenicum, kali hichromieum, pvdsatiUa, and
eupaiorium perfoliatum^ while it diflPers from all these in a
marked manner.
The fever of baptisia is characterised by chilliness,
and great restless uneasiness, followed by full, frontal
headache, diy heat of skin, increase of pulse, and excited
action of the heart, approach to delirium, sleeplessness
after 2 a.m., and most noteworthy of all, extreme aching
in tbe muscles of the back, from the neck to the sacrum,
and with such an amount of tenderness in the back,
that the ordinarily soft, restful bed feels hard, and as if
he were lying on a board, inducing a painful restlessness
and tossing about in order to obtain an easy position, and
yet the headache and backache are worse on movement.
Wherever this condition exists, baptisia acts like a charm,
and is more indicated than any of the allied remedies I
have named.
Still more, of course*, will baptisia be called for if there
is present the acute mucous catarrh, which forms the
second great sphere of this medicine. We trace this-
irritation of the mucous membrane all the way down from
the eyes. The eyes are red, and water easily, with
aching in them; there is sneezing and nasal catarrh,
extenoiing down to the pharynx, which is red, feels raw
and dry, and then secretes much mucus. The mucous,
membrane of the mouth is involved, even to ulceration,,
the tonsils and fauces are red and swollen, causing desire
iSTtoiS'lSnr^" BAPTI8IA TINCTORIA. 65^
for deglatition, and pain in swallowing. The tongue is at
first white, with red papillae, then becomes yellow in the
oentre, while the edges are clean and red. Viscid saliva is
secreted, and there is a flat taste in the mouth. In the
stomach baptigia causes much pain and tenderness, nausea,
flatulence, and vomiting, with loss of appetite and thirst*
The duodenum is tender, and causes pain, whidi is referred
to the right hypochondrium. The liver also is probably
affected also, through the propagation of the catarrh along
the common bile-duct. The whole intestinal mucous mem-
brane is involved, causing not only the duodenal pain just
mentioned, but pain in the whole abdomen, tenderness on
pressure, distension from flatulence, rumbling, desire for
stool, with, in some cases, constipation, but more
frequently soft papescent diarrhoea. The patient sleeps in
the first part of Uie night restlessly, then wakes in a state
of febrile heat about 2 a.m., and lies awake, tossing
uneasily. There is some heat in passing urine.
The respiratory mucous membrane is also affected,
though in a less degree. Hoarseness, slight mucous-
coQgb, and feeling of tightness in the chest, are felt,
with pains referred to one or other lung, generally the
right.
We see, then, how clearly baptisia is the remedy for
acute gastro-intestinal catarrh, or for what is correctly
termed " gastric fever,*' in opposition to true typhoid.
This may be either looked upon as a fever, with gastro-
enteric catarrh, or as an acute gastro-enteric catarrh,.
of which the fever is a symptom.
We see also why baptisia should be of value in the early
stage of true typhoid fever, being symptomatically homceo-
pathic to it. Whether it has the power it is credited with^
of cutting short true typhoid in the first week, is a point
on which different opinions are held, and into which I do
not here enter ; suffice it to point out how homoeopathic
it is to the early stage of it, while clinically it certainly is
of great value in the amelioration, at least, of the
symptoms then present. "
. Again, in cases of acute mucous catarrh, oven though
bot involving the whole gastro-intestinal tract, baptisia
ought to be of the greatest service, and will rival aconite.
Thus, m febrile '' cold in the head," in acute naso-faucio-
pharyngetd catarrh, in acute gastric catarrh, and acute
660 BAPTiaiA TINCTOBIA. KSSSrjSS^MS!
enteritis, or enteric catarrh, or in gimple febrile diarrhoBa
with soft pappy stools, baptida is well indicated^ ought to
be, and' is of the first importance.
That these statements are borne oat by the provinga
will be seen from the detailed summary of the patho-
genesis, which I now proceed to giye. I may add that,
if the case is complicated by a certain amonnt of bronchial
irritation and sense of tightness in the chest, so mnch the
more will baptisia meet these conditions.
Mind, — The effect of baptisia on the mind is to produce
first a doll gloomy feeling, with low spirits, with weakness
of brain function. ^'Cannot confine his mind; sort of
wild wandering feeling." ^* Mind seemed weak rather
than confused.*' " Indisposed to think, want of power to
think.*' This is seemingly the preliminary to the second
stage of febrile excitement — ** a sort of excitement of the
brain which is the preliminary, or rather the beginning of
delirium. With him it never fails to take place if the
fever continues, and increases to considerable intensity.'*
This state is in harmony with the febrile condition which
baptisia so markedly produces.
Head. — There is a dull, confused, heavy feeling in the
whole head, with swimming sensation. Headache is
prominent, almost entirely frontal, with pressure at the
root of the nose. The frontal pain is of a dull, pressive,
full character; worse from noise, or on stooping. Sharp
pains are also felt in both temples. One prover notes —
*' Vertigo and sensation of weakness in the entire system,
especially in the lower limbs, with weak knees.** A sensa-
tion as if the skin of the forehead was too tight, is noted
several times. This state of the head is evidently a febrile
one, and just such as is experienced in the onset of fever.
Eyes. — The eyes look shining, and the conjunctival
vessels are dilated, causing redness. The eyeballs ache,
feel '' soie and lame '* on moving them, and feel as if
pressed into the head. Prover feels difficulty in keeping
the lids open. There is pain also over both eyes ; some
confusion of sight, and lachrymation in the open air.
These also are evidently symptoms of the general fever;
the redness and lachrymation being indications of the
mucoup membrane irritation that exists everywhere.
Ears. — ^Dnlneas of hearing is all that is noted*
iSS^NjnrS^ BAPTISIA TINOTOBIA. 661
Nose. — ^Here we find the mucous catarrh showing itself
by sneezing and ^^ feeling as after taking a severe cold/*^
mucous discharge, and dull pain and pressure at the root
of the nose. These symptoms, with those of the eyes and
head, show that baptiaia will rival aconite in the beginning
of an acute febrile '' cold in the head."
Face. — The face not only feels flushed and hot, with
burning of cheeks, and '' burning and prickling of left side
of face and head," but it is noticed that the face is per-
ceptibly flushed and hot.
Mouth. — The tongue indicates distinctly the ^tate of
febrile mucous catarrh ; it is at first white, with reddish
papillsB seen here and there, then becomes yellow in the
centre, the edges being red and shining. The tongue feels
dry, swoUen, and as though it had been scraped. The
gums become sore. Ulcers also form in the mouth, there
is increased flow of viscid saliva, the lips stick together,
and there is a ** flat," bitter taste in the mouth.
Throat. — The condition here is very marked. There is
a feeling of contraction and soreness, causing frequent
efforts at deglutition,' a scraped, burning feeling, and
tickling, causing cough. The fauces and tonsUs are
distinctly red. The pharynx is red and congested, with a
sense of dryness and roughness, a raw sensation or pricking
there. This extends up to the posterior nares, and is
followed by increased secretion of viscid mucus.
We thus see how homoeopathic boiptisia is to an acute
febrile catarrh of the nose, involving the mucous mem*
brane of the mouth, tonsils, fauces, and pharynx. In this
its action calls to mind aconite, heUadonna, mercuriusj and
kali bichromicum — ^in fact, it would seem to combine the
effects of a£on., bell., and mercurius, and ought to be
valuable given alone in such cases.
Stomach. — ^In this organ we notice the extension of the
mucous membrane irritation of an acute type, causing loss
of appetite, thirst, nausea, and desire to vomit, very
marked pain of a drawing character, and '' distress " in
the epigastrium and rigUt hypochondrium. The pain in
the latter is probably partially from the liver, as we shall
see in the next section, but chiefly from catarrh of the
duodenum, extending along the common bile-duct. Bap-
Usia stands thus almodt unrivalled in acute gastric catarrh^
668 BAPTISIA TINOTOBIA. *SSS5.^aJ!T
whether existing alone or as part of a general aente
catarrh of the whole gasfero-mtestinal tract, and also in
.acnte daodenal catarrh.
Abdomen. — ^Severe pain is felt at the liver, of a dull
character, with soreness, and is much aggravated hj
walking. This pain is, as I have said, probably as mneh
•or more from the dnodenmn as from tlie liver. There is
dull aching pain in the umbilical and hypogastric r^ons*
with pain on pressure, distension, flatulence, rumbling, and
desire for stool. The pain goes into the groin and testicle^.
Here again we have evident enteric catarrh, the pain, ten-
derness, distension, rambling, and desire for stool being
characteristic of this state, and pointing out hapiUia as a
most important remedy in this condition.
Stool and Anus. — The marked feature here is the
diarrhoea; the stools being dark, soft, papescent, with
much mucus. In other cases, there is constipati<Hi.
These two conditions are not .antagonistic, as we know that
catarrh of the upper portion of the bowel is attended
by rambling and desire for stool, but actual constipation,
while diarrhoea exists, when the catarrh affects the ileum
and colon. In one case, when constipation was produced,
piles became troublesome. It is to be noted that ihe colour
of the stools is only once mentioned, and then they are said
to be '' dark." This supports the view I have expressed
that the pain in the right hypochondrium is as much, if
not more, duodenal than hepatic. If the liver were much
involved, the stools would probably have been pale.
Urinary Organs. — ^There is " a sort of burning " when
urinating; the urine is high-coloured, and in one case was
neutral to test-paper. The *' sort of burning " is what is
usually felt in a febrile condition.
Respiratory Organs. — The catarrh of the mucous
membrane is also here visible, though not nearly so
marked as in the digestive apparatus. There is hoarseness,
tendency to cough, increased secretion of bronchial muous ;
with feeling of oppression, tightness and difiSculty of
breathing, and in one case, '^ soreness of right lung."
This tightness and oppression is, in fiict, the most
nuirked feature. One prover thus describes it. ''On
lying down, difficulty of breathing, in half an hour,
becoming so great that he was obliged to rise ; afraid to
go to deep from feeling of certainty that he shoaM
BS^vTumL^ BAKTIBU TINOTORIA. 688
immediately have nightmare and snffoeation. This dif*
fieolty of breathing is not so much from constriction of
the chesty as from a feeling of want of power in the
respiratory apparatus^ snch as he had only felt daring
A fever."
Chest, — ^In this section are repeated the symptoms
'Of tightness and oppression, with diffioolty of breathing,
-and pains referred to both longs, chiefly the right.
Heart and PuUe, — There is increased throbbing in the
heart, felt distinctly by the prover, and feeling as if filling
the chest. The palse becomes qnick, np to 100, in some
weak, in others fnll and soft. This is in keeping with the
general state of fever.
Neck and Back. — The symptoms in this region are very
important to notice, as they form the key to the nse of
baptisia in cases of fever when there may be no marked
acnte macons catarrh. The muscles of the neck and back
feel stiff, and ache severely. This aching and stiffness is
worse on walking. That in the lambar and sacral regions
is particularly severe. A proving is thus recorded: ^' Dull
pain of the sacrum, compounded of a feeling as from
pressure and fatigae from long stooping, and soreness ex*
tending around hips and down right leg." Other provings
in the same strain, classed under " Generalities " in Allen,
ought really to be named m this section of the back. As
they are important, I quote them entire. '' Bheumatic
pains and soreness all over the body." '' Stiffness of aO
the joints, as though strained." '' Feel stiff and sore all
over ; dread to move." " Each time after waking firom
the nightmare, the parts on which he lay soon became
exceedingly painful, especially the sacral region and hips.
After lying for not more than ten minutes upon the back,
the sacral regions became intolerably painful, as though he
liad lain upon the bare floor all night, and inducing the
conviction that a short continuance of the position would
produce bed-sores. When turning on the other side, the
«ame sensation was produced in the hips, obliging him at
last to turn on his face to relieve these parts." ''In-
tolerance of pressure on all parts on which pressure was
made. Gould not rest back against chair without pain
from the pressure. Obliged to change sitting position eveiy
few minutes from same cause. Even the feet became
equally painful from resting on the floor." These symp-
664 BAPT18IA TmoTOMA. ^SSaS^.TTTS^
toms are yeiy majrked, are freqaenily met with in a ease of
fever, when one's attention is drawn to them as indicating
a medicine, and, as I have jnst said, when present with
ferer they indicate bajrtina. Clinical results amply con-
firm this statement. Patients often describe it as tiiat
the bed feels so hard.
Upper and Lower ExtremitieB, — Aching and drawing
pains are felt in all the muscles, sometimes nnmbiiass ct
hands and feet ; prickling nmub feeling, as if the parts
were going to sleep.
OeneraUties. — There is a yeiy restiess state. He cannot
sleep qniedy. "Wants to sleep, and yet does not want
to." In evening restless, uneasy feeling. Wants to
move about from place to place. With this restless
feeling there is a sense of weakness and prostration and
utter weariness, with general sore, tired, bruised feeliug.
"Indescribable sick feeling all over." In one case,
" paralysis of the whole left side " is noted. This weaij
weakness is evidenUy part of the incipient febrile state.
Skin. — Only the following is noted: — "Livid spots
appear all over the body and Umbs, size of pea to three-
cent piece ; thickest on body ; without sensation ; not
elevated, and irregular in shape — after six weeks.
Sleep and Dreams. — The provers almost all record the
same condition, namely, sleeping till one, two, or three
o'clock a.m., waking uneasily, sometimes with a feel-
ing of tightness in chest or suffocation, oftener after a
nightmare or frightful dreams, and then lying awake,
tossing about, or sleeping very restiessly, with troubled
uneasy dreams. This form of sleeplessness is common in a
febrile state. It is also common in other states of dis-
health, and is much more difficult to cure than sleepless-
ness occurring in the first part of the night. Baptuia,
then, will be one of our few medicines which meet this
form of sleeplessness.
Fever. — There is marked chilliness in the evening,
followed by dry heat, the face particularly feeling hot, with
which the prover wakens at two or three. a.m. Only once is
perspiration said to have followed the heat, and then it
was accompanied by vomiting and diarrhcea.
bS^Js^^S^ phosphorus in pneumonia. 665
PHOSPHORUS m PNEUMONIA AND SOFTENING
OF THE BRAIN.
By Dr. W. Arnold, Heidelberg.
Translated from the Horn. Vierteljahrschrift IIl.^ 161, 1852, by Dr. Lilien-
THAL, and reprinted frum the North American Journal of Homoeopathy r
Aog., 1881.
There must be an internal as well as an external similarity
between the morbid manifestations and the action of the
drug. As an example for onr study let us take phosptior.
This drug offers many symptoms, which according to-
the law of similarity hmt its application in inflammation
of the respiratory organs. It has been recommended in
pneumonia complicated with bronchitis, in pleuritic exuda*
tions, in exudations into the parenchyma of the lungs, in
hepatization, even when well advanced, in pneumonia during
the course of tuberculosis, in great depression of the yital
force, a weak cough, when pulmonary paralysis threatens,
when nervous symptoms appear or are already present, in
lung fever during typhus epidemics, in those of old people,
especially when they had been troubled for a long time
with chronic nervous cough and shortness of breath. I
acknowledge that such indications are not of much import-
ance to us, though nobody denies that phospltor. did good
work in some such cases, but too often in similar cases
other drugs are better indicated, and the reason of ib is,
because such expressions fail to show a state, evincing itself
as a pathologico-therapeutical specialty. GL Muller truly
designates phosphorus only suitable for those cases of pneu-
monia where with the dyspnoea and difficulty of breathing
we meet also pains, especially stitching, caused or increased
Dy coughing and breathing, or in pleuro-pneumonia, where
the scanty expectoration contains mucus or bloody mucus
and breathing is rendered difficult even in the pulmonary
parts free from inflammation. In such cases we also meet
depression of the mental faculties, light bland delirium with
carphologia and subsaltus tendinum, rapid loss of strength,,
cold clammy sweat, with rapid pulse, lustreless eyes, sunken
hippocratic face, dry lips and tongue without thirst, short
laboured respiration with slight and difficult cough and
expectoration, oppression and anguish, involuntary defeca-
tion. In his essay on pneumonia (H. F., J., 158) the
same author leads our attention to the changes in the blood
produced by phosphor., and I may be allowed to add that
phosphor, not only diminishes the coagulability of the blood,.
No. 11, VoL 25. 2 z
666 PHOSPHORUS IN PNEUMONIA. "^S^fjSKITSE
dissolTing the blood corpuscles and changing the colour of
the blood into violet, but it also causes a discharge of it
into the tissue of the organs and hemorrhage by its passage
from the blood-vessels. We mast not forget that pho9phm.
cannot produce an inflammation in its strict sense in order
to understand fully when phosplior, is indicated in pneu-
monia. Because phosplior. produces in animals poisoned
by it redness of different parts of the body, some physiciaiiB
•considered it as a stimulant indicated in different inflamma-
tions. In all my experiments in the cadavers of animals
killed with phosphor. I never witnessed an unusually strong
development of the capillaries nor a stagnation of the
increased bloodmass accumulated therein, I rather found
in the lungs of these animals livid spots, often more than
usual filled with blood, which hypersBmia caused in some
cases a firmer state of the lung-tissue, so that on some
parts crepitation was absent. I never observed a folly
formed hepatization of the lungs, but Bibra observed
hepatization and partially tubercular formation, perhaps
because he used the phosplior. in the form of vapour
immediately on the lungs for some time. The blood
accumulated in the lungs was darker, violet, of a bad colour
and fluid. He found also larger and smaller spots of the
same colour, caused by the exuded blood, which were also in
the pulmonary mucous membrane, and the mucus was
often mixed with blood. Totally different are the changes
in the lungs afl;er the action of aeon. I found considerable
accumulation of blood in the lungs after the application of
^leon. or extract of aeon., especially in strong, well nour-
ished animals ; far less so in weaker or poorly nourished
animals and none at all after loss of blood. I found the
blood accumulated, especially in the blood vessels, in ihe
arteries as well as in the veins, where it coagulated, so that
copious coagula could be found in either one. The quantity
of blood in the pulmonary blood vessels was often so large,
that decided pulsations and lateral movements could be
seen in the pulmonary arteries, when opening the chest of
such animals during life. Flow of blood into the tissue of
the lungs or upon ihe mucous membrane is more rarely
observed with aeon, than with phosphor. Hence, the oases
suitable for a^on. toe diametrically opposed to those suitable
for phosphor. By comparing the changes in the lungs
with the manifestations which these drugs produce during
life and with observations on the sick bed, we find a great
iS^K^JT^I^ PH0BPH0RD8 IN PNBUMOKIA. 667
similarity, and to find out the internal changes of the organ
affected mast be therefore of great importance, and only
thns the selection of the drug can be justified. According
to commonplace expression we might say that aeon.
corresponds to pure, genuine inflammations, phosphor, to
the so-called typhoid ones with dissolution of the blood.
But I do not consider such differentiation of great
importance, as it is neither scientifically nor practically of
great ¥alue« Every physician, practising according to
the specific method, knows that besides aeon, other
remedies may be indicated in pure pneumonia, and that
phosphor, is not the only remedy in the so-called
typhoid pneumonia. We discard, therefore all such
nomenclature, and also that old misleading definition
of inflammation. We keep in yiew rather the hyper-
samia and then by studying all the cases of intoxication
we find pliosphor. indicated according to the law of similarity
where the following state is present : Fulness of blood in
the lungs, fluid quality of the blood, diminished calibre of
the blood-corpuscles, or more or less their dissolution,
decrease or loss of the coagulability of the blood, its exit
into the tissue of the lungs, pleura or pulmonary mucous
membrane, admixture of dissolute and miscoloured blood
with the bronchial mucus, bloody expectoration, especially
iiuch of bad quality ; fulness of blood with the presence of
pulmonary tubercles. The degree, the duration and form-
ation of the hypersBmia gives no hint for or against the use
of the drug» it is applicable in hypenemia, stasis and
hepatization, when the blood is of the quality just mentioned.
Where physical examination, observation of the sputa and
of the quahty of the blood exuded from this or that part of
the body, where the state or mode of life of the patient as
well as the noxte to which he was exposed, or the endemic
and epidemic influences prove that the lungs are the part
Affected, and if we then also find the manifestations pro-
duced by phospluyr. on the healthy body, showing a
dissolution of the blood and a peculiar hypersmic state in
the lungs, we may in such a case prescribe this drug with
the greatest confidence, and its effect will leave nothing to
be desired. I succeeded best, where with the characteristic
symptoms in the lungs I also found more or less: sensation
of oppression, rendering breathing difficult, complaint of
weakness in the chest which with the impossibility of taking
a deep inspiration causes a fear that breathing may stop
2x -9
668 PHOSPHORUS IN PNEUMONIA, ^t^f^i^^u^.
entirely; sensation of fulness in the chest, of increased
heat, sometimes of homing; stitches here and there in the
chest (not so yeiy characteristic, but not contra-indicating
the drug), respiration with rattling murmnrs and difScuh
expectoration of mncns mixed with blood ; rare dry congh
and laboured expectoration though the chest may be filled
with bloody mucus, which in other cases may be easily and
copiously expectorated ; cough followed by oppression and
anguish ; hemorrhage from other parts, especially epistaxis,
with the same bad quality of the blood ; dull pain in the
head, especially in forehead, dulness of head, stupefiiction,
even loss of consciousness, delirium; great lassitude, a
paretic loss of power in the extremities ; cool, placid sidn,
especially coldness of the extremities with heat of the
head ; cool sweat with the sensation of malaise, accelerated
pulse, more frequent than rapid, mostly soft, sometimes
small, easily suppressed. In such cases a rapid cure
followed its application, though it also acted well in other
cases where its peculiar bloodcrasis was not so fully de-
veloped, and where, therefore, the manifestations during
life were not so decided. This is especially remarkable in
so-called pneumonia when typhus is prevfloling ; whereas,
many cases undoubtedly need phosphor.^ others show
no such characteristic symptoms so that the prescriber may
hesitate to select it, and still they find in phosphor, their
best remedy. Such observations might have been the cause
of the general recommendation o{ phosphor, in pneumonia,
but they ought only to urge us on to study diligently the
epidemic constitution.
In softening of the hratn, phosphor, is also of great
value. In my experiments on animals, I constantly
observed softening of the central parts of the animal
nervous system, especially of the brain, less so of the cord
(Hygea 28). This is nothing astonishing, as phosphor,
acts as a resolvent on different organic tissues, especially
albuminous matter, and as it is an essential part of the
central mass of the animal nervous system. This is not
only of great interest in relation to science, but practically
I demonstrated its great value in softening of the brain.
A farmer, set. 40, rather delicate from infancy up, and
who could well stand the hard labour of a fiEirmer's life, is
married for ten years, but never had any issue. Since his
marriage his bodily vigour is still more &iling; coition
always weakens him for several days, and latterly even for
iSSSSfM^nS^ PH08PH0BUS IN PNEUMONIA. 669
weeks ; bnt only the last tweWe months he is really sick.
His morbid state deyeloped gradually, and his attending
physician diagnosed it as an incarable softening of the brain.
I saw the patient for the first time in February, and found
him paralyzed on the left side. The paralysis attacked
•especially the extremities of the left side, the upper and
lower one, less the face and the tongue, though speech was
somewhat difficult. Paralysis was not total, as the patient
could make some motions, had sensitiveness to the touch,
.and without any cause he felt pain, which sometimes
became severe in the affected arm and leg, with short,
involuntary movements. There is a kind of stiffness in
the affected parts so that it costs some effort to flex or to
move them. He complains of paroxysms of vertigo, dulness
of head, the faculty of thinking is not free and memory is
imperfect and slow. When questioned it takes him a long
time to answer ; replies are short and imperfect, as much
from inhibition of the mental faculties as from the heaviness
of speech. Little appetite, defecation rare and laboured, so
that he used purgatives frequently. Sleep restless, often
interrupted, and after awaking patient felt the worst,
whereas formerly, when he passed most of the time out of
bed, he arose usually very late. The right non-paralyzed
•side could be moved, but he never felt safe in his move-
ments ; if he wanted to grasp something he did it tremblingly,
.and had no power to hold it with firmness. The patient
.showed everywhere the picture of lassitude and powerless-
ness. Vision had decreased, he complained of a veil being
before his eyes. Features pale, only overspread by a
transient redness after an exertion or when taking some
hot nourishment. The change of temperature was remark-
.able, heat and cold were equally disagreeable to him, and
when chilly he felt inclined to stretch, in which also the
paralyzed limbs participated. I prescribed phosphor., 2d
dec, in solution, to take ten drops three times a day in
water. After sixteen days I saw him again and found him
remarkably improved ; the right extremities felt stronger
and more moveable, and also more sensitive to impressions ;
the head was more clear ; he replied more easily and
quicker, and expressed hopes of returning health ; he
looked better, ate better, and was able to be up each day
for a few hours ; well supported he could walk about the
room, though he dragged the left leg considerably. Medi-
cine repeated twice a day. Amelioration progressed steadily
670 PHOSPHOBUB IN PNEUMOKIA. *Sffl^%??^
SwisWt Not. l« IflBl.
for the next two weeks, but the patient complained of pains
in the affected limbs, and the skin over them was coTered
with red spots, siniilar to scarlatina. Phosphor, was
now omitted and bellad. 6x, given twice a day, one drop, and
after five dajs changed it to the fourth. The pains and
redness disappeared, I do not know whether to ascribe it to
the 2>ho8phor. or to the action of bellad. As no amelior-
ation followed I returned to phosphor.y twice a day ten
drops of the third decimal solution, but still improvement
was slow, but steady. He perspired copiously every night,
and pocks appeared here and there on the skin. After teai
days I found the patient greatly changed; he was up nearly
the whole day, walked about without support in his garden.
All medicine omitted and good nourishing diet with plenty
of fresh air recommended, and he hoped soon to attend
again to his business. Six months have passed, and
though not entirely cured he feels comfortable and satisfied
with his present state of health.
A delicate girl, sBt. 19, not fully developed, with scanty,,
watery menstruation or amenorrhoBa, had chlorosis for the
last two summers. She lives with her mother and two
sisters in a smaU, damp room, has to work hard notwith-
standing her insufficient nourishment. For the last two
weeks her strength entirely left her; she complains of
dizziness, restless sleep, general malaise, is forgetful and
replies slowly. Nov. 20th. She fell from her chair, was
unconscious for quarter of an hour, made some spasmodic
motions, felt somew^hat stiff when consciousness returned,
and complained of vertigo, so that she feared to fall. Nov.^
24th. She had another attack, moaned in breathing, ih»
left side moved spasmodically, the right side was stiff.
She got pulsaU After two days consciousness returned,
but the whole right side was paralyzed, motorily as well
as sensorily. The paralyzed limbs were stretched out and
it took some force to bend them ; the lower maxilla could
only be moved with difficulty, for if requested to put out
her tongue, she pressed the lower jaw-bone down with her
hand, and then succeeded only imperfectly; the tongue
could hardly be protruded and she could only utter inarticu-
late sounds ; the faculty of speech was lost. Phosphor.
Sx, four times a day, ten drops in some water. Dec« 6th.
I observed the first traces of sensation and motion in the
paralysed thigh and leg. Dec. 8th. She could move the
leg slightly, though only with great exertion ; the month
B^ji^U^'' PHOSPHORUS IN PNEUMONIA. 671
eonld be opened a little and the tongne somewhat protruded,
rather more to the right side. Dec. 10th. The right hand
was more sensitive to the touch, and she tried to move it ;
she also could pronounce some words, as apple, bread. Dec.
15th'. Sensitiveness had returned nearly to the upper arm,
motion was easier but not perfect, supported she could
walk a little about the room, but hardly any improvement
in speech. Dec. 24th. Amelioration had steadily progressed,
though there was some weakness still in the axillary joint.
Walking was nearly perfect, speaking easier, only she com-
plained of a weakness in the larynx, and she could not
open her mouth fully. She looked well though it took her
some time yet to feel well. Jan. 10th. Menstruation ap-
peared with some pains, after haying been gone for six
months. It lasted a few days, showed no influence on the
motory apparatus, but speech was a trifle less clear during
its continuance. Sometimes the girl could not find the
right word and used a similar expression instead. Towards
the latter part of January she could speak plain enough
when quiet, and only some emotional disturbance prevented
her from speaking plainly. She took the pJiosjjhor. up to
the 15th of December when she complained of some frontal
headache and pain at the upper part of the right arm,
when the drug was omitted for five days and resumed on
the 20th. From that time forward all medicine was left
off.
In both cases according to mere external similarity many
more drugs might seem to be indicated, and considering
only the superficial appearance of these manifestations, the
selection would be difiicult. But keeping in view the
origin of the disease, which in its symptoms suggested
softening of the brain and knowing from my experiments
on animals that phosphor, produced it, I prescribed it in
both cases with confidence, in as much as the external
manifestations corresponded well.
A CLINICAL CASE.
By S. H. Blaee^ M.E.C.S., Liverpool.
Besides the well known application of hryonia to the
dyspepsia, bronchial affection, and chest-wall symptoms
characteristic of this medicine, there occasionally occurs a
peculiar cesophageal symptom which is much more rarely
672 CLIKICAL CASE. "SS^^S~?»^
Beview. Nor. 1, 18BL
met with in practice, bat which, when found associated with
the other conditions indicating hryonia^ may be effectually
cored by it, as the following case will illnstrate : —
Margaret B., aged 15, of sanguine temperament, and
sedentary occapation, presented marked anssmia. Ferrum
earh. 3 x dose ter die was ordered, and continued for a
fortnight, when she came again, and now complained of
indigestion, with flatulent distension of the epigastrinm,
and in addition pain in the left side at the sixth and
seventh ribs, the pain catching her when making inspira-
tion. Besides this, there was the peculiar oesophageal
symptom — '' the food when eaten seems to lie on the chest,
as if it had not gone down " the gullet, giving to her the
sensation as if it continued to lie at a spot corresponding
with the upper third of the sternum, just as if '* choking
her," to quote her own words. She even had to *' take a
drink " after eating solid food, in order '' to get the food
down." Bryonia 1 x a dose every third hour. This was
on August 23rd. She did not find it necessary after this
to get more medicine, and so did not come again until
October 11th, when she came with a slight cough, having
felt quite well in the interval, and she reported that the
indigestion and other symptoms had been quite cured by
the medicine. No doubt, however, but some anaemia had
still remained, as I observed it on the date last named.
The sesophageal symptom referred to is not a common one
in my experience. Perhaps it may only occur a few times
in some hundreds of cases treated, but it occasionally crops
up so that it is interesting to confirm the clinical use of
bryonia for this symptom.
The most like to this that I find recorded in Hahne-
mann's Materia Medica Pura, run thus : ** Pressure in the
oesophagus, as if he had sw^allowed a hard angular body."
Again, *' she cannot get the food and diink down [for?]
she has a choking in the oesophagus (sensation when
swallowing as if the throat were swollen internally, or were
full of mucus, which cannot be got rid of by hawking),"
these symptoms being recorded among the provings of
bryonia alba. Taken with the stomach symptoms, and
especially if superadded, to cough with bronchitis of the
upper chest region they appear to me to give good reason
for the selection of this medicine. How different is this
condition of swallowing from that indicating jUwric acid,
the dysphagia of which may be traced in certain cases to the
SiSi^^rns:* clinical oabe. 67a
lower end of the gollet and oesophageal orifice of the
stomach with its symptom noted during swallowing, as if
the solid food passed over a wound or sore, causing intense
pain, and how different again from the burning pain of the
dysphagia of oxalic acid ! But again, as regards substances
possessing medicinal yirtues of closer resemblance to those
of bryonia, we have, for dysphagia of solids, bell,, ign.y loch.,
lycopod., $tram. (Cypher By.). Belladonna causes a
sensation of contraction in the gullet, or as if it were drawn
i;ogether which prevents swallowing ; and
Ignatiay a neurosis, with the sensation of a lump rising
up, and actually worse when not swallowing.
Lachesis — constriction feeling of suffocation ; symptoms
increased by pressure on the throat, and there may be an
•opposition offered to the food at the cardiac orifice. With
Lyeopodium, the pharynx feels contracted, as if nothing
•could be swallowed, and a paralytic inability to swallow.
Stramonium. — The aversion to water, and spasms of
the throat on attempting to swallow, or the paralytic
inability to swallow (Cypher By.) are characteristic of this
medicine of the group when compared with the foregoing,
And for a group of medicines such as this, the symptoms
of each medicine, even so clearly defined as these are in the
Materia Medica^ serve well to differentiate our ideas con-
•ceming their therapeutic uses, and the extent to which
they may prove of value in various diseases of the throat.
When we consider these local throat symptoms, and add to
them any gastric, hepatic, cardiac or cerebral symptoms,
-.should the patient present such — and this will often be the
case — ^to further confirm our selection ; then we are in a
-capital position to effect the object we have in view. In
this manner we may obtain a group of medicines separated
off clinically from others by a general character, so far as
the group is concerned in itself, yet of a specified or
peculiar quality as compared with other drugs, viz., by
the symptom, the dysphagia of solid food (Cypher Ry.) :
yet, nevertheless, this group forms but a small numerical
proportion out of a great number of medicines bearing the
homoeopathic relationship to dysphagia in some shape or
other. Nor, on the other hand, can we say that these few
medicines are the only ones absolutely that cause dysphagia
for solids. Fluoric acid, for instance, possesses this
symptom in reality, and especially painful dysphagia for
Jbread, and doubtless, for most if not for all solid foods.
674 A8THBM0P1A. "Sll!^"Sl"??S!^
Beriew, Not. 1, IflBI.
ASTHENOPIA*
By W. H. WiNSLOW, M.D., Pittsburgh, Pa.
Thebe are many senffltive women who have a great deal of
tronble with their eyes, out of all proportion to any canse
apparent in the organs. They cannot read or sew without
suffering from an aching of the eye*ballSy heat and twitching
in the hds, and more or less head-ache, both frontal and
occipital. There is shrinking from bright light, and the
glare of snow-iields and sheets of water ; giddiness is not
infrequent, and nausea occurs occasionally.
These symptoms and some others, are grouped under the
term Asthenopia, a Greek derivative, signifying " weak eye.""
The history of a patient affected by asthenopia varies
with each case, but will be something like this : She has
used her eyes too long in a dim light, has strained them
over fine work ; has worked too assiduously upon a black
dress, or has been obliged by her occupation to use her eyes
many hours every day. Another lady will confess that she
has used her eyes during illness or convalescence, to glance
over the paper or read a new book, to finish a bit of em-
broidery, or just to mend a rent in Johnnie's pants.
The first giving way of the eyes is sudden, and laid at
the door of some extra work, or some imprudence ; but the
patient will recall that the eyes have felt a little strained
and watery, perhaps, months before, especially if the
asthenopia has occurred when there has been continuoua
fair health.
Steady work, strain, illness, predispose to the affection,
but there frequently exists some defect in the curvature of
the cornea or lens. The patient can't see to read or sew
without pain ; the ciliary muscle has lost some of its power
to accommodate, and the harmonious relation between
accommodation and the convergence of the eyes has been
destroyed. The ciliary muscles and the internal recti are
correlated parts of the ocular apparatus, and contract and
relax together. The strong lose power of accommodation
through excessive demands upon the ciliary muscles ; the
weak through inherent weakness of muscular fibre.
The invalid don't beUeve she has abused her eyes. To
be sure, the room was darkened a little, she was bolstered
* Bead before the Homoeopathic Medical Society of AlIegheDj Go.,.
July, 1881. Beprinted from the New York Medical Timet,
1
is:^^^:i:^s^ abthbnopia. 675
np in bedy or redining in a chair, and her eyes felt a little
weak at the time ; bat it was so short a time, she was so
tired doing nothing, and, then, it didn't hurt.
She kept all her other mnscles at rest, by peremptory
order from the doctor, and didn't know that the ciliary
muscles and the recti got weak with their kind of tissue,
and also demanded rest. She didn't know how these
muscles have to work to see near objects ; she thought
seeing was as easy and effortless as sleeping.
Thus necessity, in those whose livelihood depends upon
much visual labour, and ignorance and imprudence in the
invalid, lead to troublesome eye symptoms ; which, in some
neurotic persons, prove very obnoxious to treatment.
Asthenopia occurs in both sexes, and requires a long
disquisition to do justice to the subject, but this is neither
the time nor place for such a work. I have said that an
organic defect exists in many eyes that show symptoms of
asthenopia. This defect is of such a nature, generally, that
the individual who uses the eyes much for near work is
almost sure to find it out sooner or later, without having
done anything imprudent.
The most common defect is hyperopia, or, so-called far-
sight, i.«., the patient can see far away better than near ;.
in contradistinction to myopia, in which the far sight is not
so good as the near. The far sight in hyperopia, however,
is not 80 good as with the perfect eye. It is the attribute of
the uneducated and uncivilized, and found most commonly
in sailors, Indians of the plains, and desert- wandering Arabs.
Myopia, on the contrary, is the attribute of the educated
and refined, and is most prevalent where schools flourish and
culture is broad.
Hyperopia consists of a shortening of the antero-posterior
diameter of the eye, in comparison with the refraction of
the media. The ball may be too short, or the cornea and
lens too flat, the effect wUl be the same : parallel rays of
light will not be focussed upon the retina — will not come
together — and the images of objects will be blurred, unless-
the ciliary muscle does an extra amount of work. When
the ciliary muscle contracts, it makes the lens more convex.
In the normal eye, the muscle can change the shape of the
lens, so that a small object may be seen when brought within
a few inches of the eye. In the hypermetropic eye, the
muscle makes the lens convex enough by extra effort, so*
that the defect is masked, and one can see near for a time>
^676 A8THSN0PIA.
Btviaw, Nor. U mi.
yery well. This demands much work of the muscle ; and
as age adranoesy and the lens stiffen, or the mosele becomes
weak from improper nse of glasses, excessire demands for
fine work, or trinal nse during a debilitated state of the
system ; seeing things near, or accommodating for the near
point, requires considerable effort, causes strain and pain,
and is often impossible. Any attempt to nse the eyes in
snch a condition causes yarioas unaccountable neuralgias
^bout the eyes, forehead, and occiput, and is likely to injure
the visual organs permanently.
The ciliaiy muscle gets in a spasmodic condition by the
patient's attempts to see near, and it is a very difficult task
for those who have not studied eye diseases carefully to
-determine what is the matter. The accommodatiTe asUie-
nopia may be simple weakness in the muscle, it may be
weakness of the muscle attended by the hyperopia described
or, with one or both of these, there may be another refrac-
tive anomaly called astigmatism.
This consists in a lack of symmetry in the different
meridians of the cornea or lens. The radius of curvature
in one meridian is shorter than that of the meridian at
right angles to it. It greatly complicates a case, and
often requires hours of careful examination to arrive at its
correction.
Astigmatism diminishes the vision greatly, and the per*
son affected will necessarily hold things nearer and nearer,
in proportion to its degree, in order to enlarge the visual
angle, and to see plainer, This will give the friends and
physicians a false impression that the person is near-sighted
or myopic. Be on your guard about this. A good many
doctors have been fooled. It is the family physician's duty
to recognise all the curious eye symptoms which his
patients present, and not pass them over lightly, nor treat
them with medicine continuously, until satisfied by a
critical examination at the hands of an expert that no
physical defect exists. The physican is not honest with his
patient nor just with himself, who goes on treating a
sufferer in the dark, when perhaps an examination would
reveal an organic defect, that can be corrected by glasses.
In all suspicious cases, it will not hurt any physician's
practice or reputation to call the specialist to his aid. I
do not say this because I am a specialist, but because it is
true. These eye troubles will go the specialist — ^if not to
me, to others in Pittsburgh and the east ; and the physicians
SSSS^iSn:^**^" ASTHENOPIA. 677
Beview, Nov. 1, 1881.
of both Bohools baye been bitterly blamed by patients, ia
my officei because they did not send them for examination
sooner.
The treatment of accommodative asthenopia is mechani-
cal, hygienic, and medicinal. I place these in the order
of their importance. The refraction of the eye must be
examinedi and a proper glass ordered. This is a difficult
task. The opticians do it after a fashion, and make-
distressing mistakes. It seems a simple thing. The
patient can't see near, a convex glass will make her do it ;
that's the thing, then. So the optician decides ; but the
number of glasses that will help a patient to read at eight
to twelve inches, frequently bring on terrific pains, even
when they relieve the ciliary muscle considerably. The
muscle gets in a spasm often, and then all glasses except
concave ones are refused emphatically. Who would
suppose a person requiring a convex glass to relieve dis-
tressing asthenopia would see better both far and near with
a concave one? Yet it is even so; and. Gentlemen, I
assure you that not only scientific opticians, but oculists of
considerable reputation, make mistakes in selecting glssses
for asthenopia. I've done it myself, and am not ashamed
of it. Every oculist sympathises, especially young ones.
I^ order about two hundred pair of glasses a year ; and at
least two-thirds of the cases have worn from one to six pair
before, according to the advice of some " scientific opticiany^
or some oculist with the hay seed still in his hair.
The proper use of glasses preserves sight, and is the
sine qua non in all cases of asthenopia.
Build up the general health, improve the personal and
local hygiene, and diminish the use of the eyes to a
minimum for awhile. There is no need to expatiate in
this direction ; every educated physician knows the import-
ance of good food and clothing, a healthy homci and rest^
for a damaged organ.
Medicines have a limited value in this affection. Conium
has proved very valuable, especially in women with some
uterine disorder, and a very exquisitely-tuned nervous
system. The retina is very hyperaesthetic, the patient
shrinks from bright light, and even the glare of a mirror ;
and the other symptoms of asthenopia are marked.
Cedron has done good service. Shooting pains in and
about the eyes, extending to the back of the head ; pain and
pressure from temple to temple, and weakness, dependent
'678 BBA SICKNESS. "'SS^^SSTiSS!
Upon the malarial cachexia, are leading symptoms calling
for this remedy. Spigelia coyers mnch the same symptoms,
occurring in a rheumatic patient. Cincfiona is one of the
best remedies in debility and anaBmia of the retina and
nenre ; and phospliorus cannot be dispensed with. Agar-
icus, euphrasia, ignatiay physoi., and rutay are occasionally
indicated* These medicines will relieve temporarily, but
nothing will cure till the proper glass is ordered.
SEA-SICKNESS.— ITS CAUSE AND CURE.*
By B. N. FosTEBi M.D., Chicaoo.
It would be wholly unprofessional for any physician to
cross the Atlantic and return without bringing with him a
theory of, and cure for, sea-sickness. Hence, these
remarks, which are founded upon an observation of about
fifty cases of that malady. Before witnessing these cases,
I had always entertained the notion (which I think is the
prevailing one), that sea-sickness was invariably a disturb-
ance of tibe stomach— consisting essentially in a state of
extreme nausea, accompanied by more or less vomiting.
But, in fact, there are many forms of sea-sickness, in some
of which nausea is not present at all. Without attempting
anything like a pathological classification of these forms, I
may say briefly that the one only and essential factor of
sea- sickness in every form is
Motion, — ^By which I mean that it is not primarily a
disease of the gastric mucous membrane, or of tiie liver, or
of the cerebellum, or of the nerve periphery. Any organ
in the body may be diseased or sensitive, and this fact may
^cause such organ to feel more quickly the influence that
occasions sea-sickness, or it may not. The nervous system
is perhaps that part of the organism most generally
involved, but it is not necessarily the first or only part
.affected. The circulatory apparatus may in many cases be
the first to feel the disturbance of motion ; which it then
transmits to the terminal nerves. The whole body of a
terrene animal is by habit, and by nature, accustomed and
adapted to life on a motionless foundation. All of the
movements, automatic and volitional, of such organisms,
are accustomed to refer themselves to a fixed pan etc or
.basis, which is the constant fiilcrum of their operations.
• Beprinted from the United States MMeal Ifivutifftttor, Sept., 18S1.
It^^ST^?^ SBA SICKNESS. 679
Vtoview, Not. 1, 1881.
And wheneyer this foundation or falcnim is itself set in
motion, as in earthquakes, carriage*riding, swinging, or
-sailing (all of which alike canse the same symptoms), then
ibis motion of the animal's resting-place, clashes with the
motions of the animal fluids, and solids, with the move-
ments mnscnlar and molecular of the whole frame, and
with the sense of security to which they have been accus-
iomed — ^in a word, the little animal world is thrown into
ntter confusion by the introduction of this one new element
of a moving basis. It is as if every element in the body
•experienced the sensation that the individual feels when in
^descending a stairway he miscalculates the number of steps,
:and unexpectedly descends one step more when he thought
he had taken the last. Everyone has experienced the brief
but unpleasant sinking at the epigastrium, or " all-gone "-
ness, occasioned by su6h a mis-step. Now, the motion of
a ship on the water is an endless series of such mis-steps,
with the additional mischief that the steps are irregular in
time, inconstant in direction, and of ever-varying length.
'Something similar also is witnessed in the sudden taking
away of any mental, moral, or emotional support, to which
we are accustomed. In such cases as when shocked by the
quick announcement of the death of a much beloved friend
or relative, the subject whirls around us from vertigo, falls
helpless, and is oftentimes attacked with nausea and
vomiting. When Robert Dale Owen learned that Katie
King, the wonder working medium, was an impostor, his
belief in spiritualism, upon which he had built the whole
-of a life-long series of thoughts and philosophies, tottered
to its base, and the whole fabric tumbled into the chaos of
insanity — ^in his case a mental sea-sickness, not seldom
•encountered by those who go down into deep waters.
The peculiar swells of the vessel are thought by some to
have much to do with sea-sickness, and doubtless they do
^gravate the condition. But that is all. The sick stomach
is the more easily nauseated, whether by the odour of food
or by the mere thought of it, or by the odour observed on
boaid of ships.
This, then, is probably the sole cause of sea-sickness, —
ihe motion of the vessel.
But let me not forget another illustration, which is this:
We all know how variations of altitude affect the heart's
action, and how intimately such disturbance is associated
with nausea. It is probable, therefore, that the sudden
680 SEA SICKOTISS. "SSSL^S^TSt.
variations of altitnde experienced on ship-board haye mndi
to doy by suddenly altering the blood pressure in various
organs, ivvith the phenomena of sea-siekness. That a very
slight increase or decrease of the normal blood-pressure
will cause very great disturbance, we know from many
illustrations furnished by pathology.
Furthermore, sea-sickness is not always a su?&-ness.
Some are rendered very nervous, apprehensive, and sleep-
less; some enter into a state of torpor or semi-somnolence;
some are a£9icted with diarrhoea; and some with nausea and
vomiting. All these phases of the disease may be observed
among any twenty passengers selected at random from
those on board. At least, it was so on my voyage out, and
also on the voyage back. There are probably other forms
of the malady, which I did not detect.
But, howsoever numerous the disturbances may be, they
all refer to one cause, — the undulations of our temporaiy
habitat. A final negative evidence of this fact is shown in
the sudden sickness which seizes upon many when the
vessel suddenly '' heaves- to '* in mid-ocean. By this time
many organisms have adjusted themselves nioely to the
undulatory regime, and likewise to the forward movement
of three hundi*ed miles daily. But the instant this rapid
forward movement ceases, the adjustment is broken, and
there is a sudden surge of cerebral congestion, flushings,
vertigo, and nausea. A similar feeling arises when an
earthquake shock is felt, although this arises from an exact
reversal of conditions. In both cases, however, the dis-
turbance is due to the interruption of the long-established
equilibrium between the motions and so-forth of the
organism and the motion of its environment. Doubtless,
if the rotary movement of the earth were to be slightly
altered at any time, a universal sickness would ensue.
How many of our physical ailments are due to causes of
some such character, we have no means of knowing. At
all events, neither the sewer nor the germ theory have aa
yet explained the rates of mortality.
The Cure. — If the above is the correct theory of sea-
sickness, and certainly it approximates thereto, then is it
quite unnecessary to exhibit our idiocy by seeking the-
similimum. The one certain and scientific remedy is that
proposed by a Boston medicus, viz., stay on shore. The
next best remedy is a little thing of my own, viz., stay of*
board. This latter is a cure : the former is merely a pre-
?£i^^iSrr25?^ SEA SICKNESS. 681
Jtaview, Nor. 1, IWl.
Tentive ; which, in this case, is not better than the cnre*
For many persons are wonderfally benefited in more ways
than one by a sea-voyage, and the Boston man's prescript
tion robs them of this gain, while mine does not.
The third cure is motor-pathic. Stay on deck. Keep
on your feet. Keep moving. Walk all yon can. In thi»
case the energetic movements of the body and of its organs
are set actively against the sickening movement of the ship.
This latter movement is not given entire control. It is in-
terrupted every moment by counter and accustomed move-
ments of the body and its parts. This treatment must
be continued until the adjustment of movements is com»
plete, when we have again a cure. Moreover, this proves
that something may be done to moderate sea-sickness.
The fourth cure is to stay in bed. This is^ the necessary
course for those who have not the strength for the heroic
treatment just set forth. In this case the motion of the
vessel is allowed to rule, and the organism is allowed by
its involuntary resources alone to adjust itself to the new
conditions, which, sooner or later, it nearly always does.
The fifth cure is by symptomatic treatment, disregarding
the cause, if we like, and seeking for a remedy which will
produce a similar disturbance. This is Homoeopathy. In
a certain number of cases, perhaps in a large percentage^
this treatment will ameliorate very promptly, and so will
aid to hasten the coming adjustment. In the milder cases
of nausea, or of cerebral disturbance, it will prove, according
to what I have seen and heard on careful enquiry, a ver7
great relief, and it would be my own first experiment. It
is not unreasonable to infer that an equal amelioration
occurs in severe cases also, but in such cases the result
falls so far short of the desideratum that neither physician
nor patient feels much confidence in the method. At all
events, the physician who has gone to sea with his pocket
case and cured ttUo, cito, etjucundcy every case of sea-sick-
ness, has not yet been heard from. But let us not wholly
despair. We have some few on land who come pretty near
to that standard of precision, and why should they not yet
be found at sea ?
The sixth cure is the administration of sedatives, such
as apomorphia,* opiums ehoraly and the bromides of sodium
* We would refer our friend, Dr. Foster, to experiments made -mtib
afomorphia^ and we think that these wiU show him that it is not merely
an antipathic sedative, bat strictly homeopathic to many cases of sea-aiok-
ness.— {Ed. M. H. B.]
No.ll,yoL35. 2t
682 8BA Bicpnsgs, ^'HS&.^SS^TSi
and potash. This, I am informed, is " regokr " treatanent,
ihongh I see no d^erence in the regol&rity involved in any
of these methods. Experience mnst decide for or against
them all alike. Several persons told me that th^ obtained
a little relief from the bromideiy bst that the remedy was
idmost as unpleasant as the disease ; while, in other caseSj
ihey certainly make matters worse. This is still more
tme of the opiates and hypnotics.
Finally, after all these ''cnres" have been iaried faitfafdlly,
except the first, there will still remain a lai^e number of
patients who experience no sense of relief from any of
Ihem, and who have come doggedly to the conclusion that
*' nothing does any good but time and patience." In severe
cases this is so nearly tme, that no amount of medication,
high or low, regular or irregular, theoretical or practical,
-can disprove it. In which respect there is a goodly amount
of similar sickness on land.
To this, it may be added, that while some persons daim
a decided benefit from the sedative treatment, and many
more from the homoeopathic treatment, yet the ** cures "
are most frequent, with that class who would doubtless do
just as well under the motor-pathic system, or under a
strictly expectant regime. However, we must admit that
up to this time systematic observations and comparisons
are wholly wanting, and that opinions are therefore of veiy
little value. They are all liable to be vitiated by erroneous
notions, by faith, or prejudice, and some even by fitiud. If
ten thousand victims could be systematically treated by one
method, and as many more by another, and so on, and if
^^arefully compiled records of the results could be compaied,
the merits of the various methods of treatment might then
be estimated to some purpose. But nothing less can be of
much value. Meanwhile, like Bunthome in the new play,
we must continue '' to long for whirlwinds, and have to do
the best we can with the bellows."
Finally, I am sure that many of my readers would be
happier if I should wind up with a series of " indications **
for certain remedies. For such I will simply say thai
ipecac, is good for nausea and vomiting, belladonna for
cerebral congestion, gel$. for occipital congestion, and any
drug for any sj^ptom that it characteristically produces. —
(Vide Allen's Materia Mediea.)
ItSi^^aHT^SS!^ MOLBCULAB PROPEBTIES, 688
B0Ti««, Not. U 18B1.
ON THE CONNECTION OF THE MOLECULAR
PROPERTIES OF INORGANIC COMPOUNDS
WITH THEIR ACTION UPON THE
LIVING ANIMAL ORGANISM.
By James Blake, M.D., F.R.C.S.
DuBiNO my prolonged researeheson the phenomena elicited
by the direct iutroductioa of inorganic matter into the
^irccdation of living animals, I have arrived at results which,
as I believe, open a new path to the solution of certain
riddles of molecular chemistry. The researches were begun
with the intention of applying these simpler and better
known snbstances for the analysis of physiological facts, but
in the course of my experiments it became clear that living
matter might serve as a means for giving a clue to the
molecular properties of inorganic matter. In a discourse
•delivered in 1889 before the Academy of Sciences of Paris,
I cdbowed that when solutions of different salts are intro-
duced into the blood of living animals the physiological
Action depends on the electro-positive component of the
•salt, and little upon the acid with which it is combined. A
^onmiunication which I read at a meeting of the Royal
Society in June, 1841, proved that the action of inorganic
bodies introduced directly into the blood of living animals
depends on their isomorphous relations ; and in a memoir
communicated to the California Academy of Sciences in
1878, 1 showed that among the compounds of the metallic
bodies, strictly speaking, the physiological efficacy of sub-
stances belonging to one and the same isomorphous group
was proportionate to their atomic weight ; the greater the
atomic weight the more intense the physiological action.
This is not the place to enter closely into the physiological
action of the bodies employed in these experiments. They
included salts in 41 elements, and their action was tested
upon horses, dogs, eats, rabbits, geese, and hens with
identical results. Aqueous solutions of llie different salts
were injeeted into the blood-vessels of the living animals.
Among those of the monatomic metals were salts of lithium,
sodium, rubidium, thallium, calcium, and silver. They all
agree exactly in their physiological action. The fatal
quantity of lithium sulphate for a rabbit is 1 grm. per kilo*
of the animal's weight ; whilst of silver nitrate, 0.06 grm.
was &tal. Among the diatomic metals tried were salts of
684 VOLECCTLAB PBOPEBTIES. '^^^^
Beview* Nor. 1, 1881.
magnesium^ iron, manganese, cobalt^ nickel, copper, zinc,
and cadmium, as also calcium, strontium, and bariam.
In the salts of the magnesium series, the analogy of phy-
siological action is very numifest, and their actiidty is
enhanced with the increase of the atomic weight, rising
from 0.97 grm. per kilo, for magnesium sulphate to 0.06
grm. for cadmium sulphate. The salts of calcium, stron-
tium, and barium form likewise a group in which the-
increasing physiological action is very distinct, being 0.47
per kilo, in calcium chloride and 0.04S grm. per kUo. for
barium chloride. The physiological reactions of the lead
salts resemble those of the barium group, though agreeing
in certain reactions with the salts of silyer. (Similar
transition-reactions were obsenred in the salts of mag-
nesium, calcium, silver, and gold.)
Among the tetratomic metals, the salts of thorium^
palladium, platinum, osmium, and gold were examined.
All showed great similarity in their physiological action,
ranging from 0.029 grm. per kilo, in thorium sulphate to^
0*003 grm. per kilo in gold chloride. The decided and
characteristic effect of this class of substances upon the
action of the heart was shown in the most suiprising
manner by the compounds of gold, which even in the
minute dose of 0.003 grm. per kilo, kept up the action of
the heart for several hours after death, though the tein-
peratare of the body had sunk 13^ below the normal heat
of the animal.
Among the hexatomic metals, the salts of glucinum,
aluminium, and iron (ferricum) agree perfectly in their
physiological reactions. The fatal dose per kilo, ranges
from 0.023 in glucinum, 0.007 for aluminium, and O.W)4
grm. in ferricum, all in the state of sulphates. The phy-
siological action of glucinum confirms the view that glu-
cinum is a hexatomic metal.
Among the rarer earths, experiments were tried with
ytterbium, cerium, didymium, lanthanum, and erbium.
There was found a marked difference between the cerous
and eerie salts as in those of iron. The difference is,
however, less, being 1 : 3 in cerium and 1 : 28 in iron.
Among the non-metallic elements, compounds of chlorine,
bromine, iodine, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, sulphur,
and selenium were examined. Chlorine, bromine, and
iodine agree closely in their physiological reaction, but
instead of an increase there is here a decrease in intensity.
bS^^STuS*' a case of poibonino. 686
Phosphorns, argenio, and antimony do not induce any
immediately perceptible physiological reaction. Arsenions
acid, injected in the proportion of 0'660 grm. per kilo.
4sheck8 tiie pulmonary circulation. Sulphur and selenium
-are similar in their action, the latter being the more
powerful. The only exceptions to the rule, that isomor-
phous substances act in an analogous manner, are the salts
•of potassium and ammom'um. The latter produce results
resembling those of certain nitrogenous alkaloids. If the
carbon compounds exhibit similar phenomena in their
manner of action upon the living animal body, researches
concerning molecular relations will be greatly facilitated.
Pujardin has already demonstrated in this direction, that
in alcohols of one and the same series the intensity of the
physiological action is directly as the atomic weight. —
Translated in the Chemical News from the Berichte der
Deutscherij Chem. GeseUschafU
A CASE OP POISONING WITH BELLADONNA.
Bt Pbotheboe SidXH, M.D.*
On September 1st, 1881, Mrs. K — , a highly nervous
patient, suffering from chronic metritis, inadvertently swal-
lowed from half an ounce to an ounce of belladonna
liniment, equivalent to about half an ounce of the root,
about 5 or 6 a.m., just before which her bowels had acted
copiously. She was seen by her attendant between 9 and
10 A.H., who administered a mustard emetic, which caused
her to vomit freely. I first visited her at 2 p.m., when she
was insensible, with wild, scared, and pinched features,
^nsomic, with lips blue and pale, the pupils being fully
dilated, and not acting to the light ; her tongue was rough
and diy; the pulse was ISO, thready and intermittent;
the heart's action feeble, especially the first sound ; respir-
ation BO in the minute; temperature normal. When
roused she was quite incoherent : pain in the pit of the
stomach, calling out when it was pressed; frequent
retching; large quantities of light-coloured urine have
been passed unconsciously. I prescribed one drachm of
aromatic spirit of ammonia with four minims of sedative
solution of opium (the only suitable remedies at hand), and
jurrowroot or beef tea and brandy every ten or fifteen
* Beprinted from The Lancet, October 1st, 1881.
686 A CASE OF POISONING. ^'S^
Bflvtov, Kor. 1, 18BL
minutes. At 4.15 p.m. slie looked better, more oolomr in
her cheeks and lips, which eontinne pale but pink. She
has taken the food ordered every ten minutes; sickness
less ; pulse 112, fuller, without intermission ; respiration 28;
pupils remain dilated. She is still incoherent, but is able
to retain her urine.
September 2nd. — 11 a.m. : Has passed a very, restless
night, and is still incoherent, imagining she has committed
murder, &c. Pulse fuller, without intermission : heart'a
first sound louder, still rhythm imperfect; tongue somewhat
moister ; excessive itching of the nares. Cheeks flushed,
lips red ; the fingers and nails, which at first were blue,
are more natural in colour. Abdominal pains mitigated ;
when roused, says she hears eveiybody as though at a^
great distance, and sees them as greatly magnified ; talks
rapidly and incoherently. Gatamenia appeared this
morning before due. Ordered half a drachm of hydrate of
chloral, with one ounce of water every four hours, with
twenty minims of aromatic spirit of ammonia. — 5.45 p.m. :
Soon after taking the chloral she became rational. Pupils
act better. Pulse 80, and full without irregularity ; says
she has not slept since she took the poison. To take forty
minims of chloral, ten minims of nepenthe, with water at
bed-time, and, if necessary, repeat every six hours.
September Srd. — 11 a.m. : Says the medicine (chloral)
has acted like magic, the first dose restoring her senses in
half an hour. She has slept all night, and is now restored
to her usual bright and intelligent expression, and is quite
herself again.
In the above instance it is worthy of remark that the
domestic remedies generally at hand — ^viz., mustard emetic,
sal volatile, brandy, and opium — so far modified the urgent
symptoms as to render the case less dangerous to life, and
gave time for procuring more efficient remedies ; that the
extreme feebleness and irregularity of pulse were at once
relieved by small doses af liquid food, brandy, ammonia,
and opium, but that for several hours it was found neces-
sary to exhibit them at first every ten minutes, and after-
wards every fifteen or twenty, in order to sustain the heart's
action and prevent its intermitting. But the remedy which
of all others produced the most happy result, restoring
quickly the normal action of the heart and iris, and effecting
a rapid cure, was the hydrate of chloral^ in half-drachm
ItSa^^m^ BBVIEWS. 687
Mi&ritm, Not. 1, iffil.
doaes, with a small qnautitj of solution of opiunii &c.,
every four to six hours, and a larger dose at night.
A case of poisoning by belladonna is reported in The
Lancet, of January 8th, 1881, suggested by Dr. Trocqaart,
of Bordeaux, in which chloral hydrate was successfully
employed as an enema.
Another case is published by N. Grattan, L.B.G.P. Ed.,
in the British Medical Journal, of April 16th, 1881, in
which one-fifth of a grain of pilocarpin was hypodermically
injected every fifteen minutes, with equally favourable
results. As. however, the chloral is shown to be such an
efiScient antidote, I should be disposed in cases of poisoning
with belladonna always to prefer it to the new and powerful
remedy of pilocarpin, which in unskilled hands might not
be altogether exempt from risk.
REVIEWS.
A Guide to the Clinical Examination of Patients. Boericke
and Tafel, New York.
Thrbe is much in this work which will amply repay perusal.
Intended by the author, Dr. Hagen, of the University of Leipsic,
as a text-book for students, it is full of information which is of
great help to the practitioner.
The general plan of the work is excellent, and easily followed.
The first part of the book is devoted to the various methods of
examining patients, and the several departments of physical
diagnosis. The section on percussion is most carefully and
minutelv written. The author seems to attach much more
importance to the pleximeter than is commonly done.
Copious and valuable information is given as to auscultation
also, but this is a subject of which but little can be learned by
reading. A student can gather more knowledge of rales and
murmurs by one hour*s work in a hospital ward or out-patient
room, under the guidance of a competent teacher, than in a
week's reading of the most scientific treatise on the subject.
In the section devoted to thermometry and fever, much useful
instruction is condensed. The import of a given range of
temperature is well impressed on the student. In the present
day it is, of course, rare to meet with anyone who is not in the
habit of constantly using the thermometer, but we fear there are
practitioners who do not attach due importance to the relative
value of collateral indications or circumstances in taking
temperatures. For instance, in cases of fever occurring in
688 BEYIEWS.
Berinr, Nor. 1, IflBI.
children, a temperature of 108 at 7 p.m. might not
nearly as much danger as a similar temperature in the case of an
adult. It is mnch to be regretted that, in presenting this
▼alnable little manual to the English reader, the translator has
retained the centigrade scale. There are bat few of ns who are
accnstomed to its nse, and it is not always easy to make the
necessary calculation if the temperature be a fractional one.
The chapter dealing with the examination of the urine is most
clearly and scientifically written. After treating of the normal
constituents of the urine, both organic and inorganic, the author
proceeds to a carefully detailed description of all the abnormal
products which may be found under different diseased conditions
of the body. Then the various deposits are described in order,
with their various microscopical characteristics. The various
morbid states in which these deposits occur are carefully noted.
Many practitioners will welcome the directions given for short
special chemical tests to detect the presence of albumen and
sugar, for which latter five tests are given. An interesting,
though rather rare, substance in the urine is tyrosin. This sub-
stance is specially found in the urine in acute atrophy of the
liver, phosphorus poisoning, sometimes also in gangrene, typhus,
or small pox. Its presence should generally induce us to
administer pJiosph, as an appropriate simillimum.
Passing from general clinical considerations, we come to the
second part of the book, which embraces the actual clinical
examination of patients and the actual diagnostic indications of
all bnt the most unusual diseases. Most minute directions are
given for the palpation and percussion of various regions. Many
of us, however, will scarcely venture to follow the author's
directions for palpation of the pylorus. He advises the
administration of a powerful purgative the evening before.
This would be hardly advisable in advanced cases of cancer or of
obstruction.
The latter part of the work in its arrangement is somewhat
like 'Fenwick's Manual, but instead of beginning with the
symptoms and ending each section with the name of the disease,
the author heads each section with the name of the disease and
then proceeds with the description of the various clinical signs.
Obpcure and rare forms of disease are briefly conmiented on, the
author keeping more to diseases of wide range and firc^ent
occurrence. Cardiac diseases are well described, but with
perhaps a little too much compression. General interstitial
fibrous hepatitis is not a very ordinary term for cirrhosis of the
liver, although strictly scientific. Three pages suffice for skin
diseases, of which merely the names and classes are given.
Brain and nervous diseases are described next, but the same
B^SSS^^^'nffi?*' MBETIKGS OF SOOIETIBS. 689
Bflfiew, Not. 1, 1881.
tendency is seen as in the section devoted to cardiac diseases.
Books, like brains, sometimes snffer from too much compression.
The chapter on acute infections disease includes intermittent
fever. This we should hardly term an infectious disease in the
sense which the author has implied, although as a matter of £Mt
it arises from malarial infection, still we would not be disposed to
rank it with variola, scarlatina, measles and typhus. We notice,
too, the omission entirely of rotheln, which is nowadays regarded
4W a distinct malady. With these few exceptions the book is
:fioundly and scientifically written, and will be valued by many for
the useful hints which abound in its pages. It is a book to
which one can turn after examining a patient, as an aid to
memory, a refresher, so to speak, of the powers of diagnosis.
Although we, as homoeopaths, perhaps more than allopaths,
recognise that no two cases of a given disease run the same
course, yet there are always salient diagnostic points and features
which this little manual brings into strong relief, enabling the
practitioner in a minute to run over the various symptoms and to
determine whether any have been omitted from his clinical
examiiid,tion. It is highly valued in Germany, having been
adopted as a text book in many of the Universities, and we have
no doubt will make many friends in its new form.
MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES.
LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMCEOPATHY.
A SPECIAL General Meeting of the Governors and Subscribers of
the London School of Homoeopathy was held on October 4th,
1881, in the Lecture Room of the London Homoeopathic Hospital,
■<^eat Ormond Street, on the termination of the Hahnemann
Address by Dr. Richard Hughes, to receive and discuss the
Report of the Sub-Committee appointed to revise the constitution
and laws of the School. Lord Ebury being unable to be present,
the chair was occupied by the Treasurer, M%jor Yaughan Morgan.
Among those present were Dr. Matheson, Dr. Dyce Brown,
Mr. Pite, Dr. Buck, Mr. Boodle, Dr. Baynes, Mr. Harris, Dr.
Hughes, Dr. Burnett, Dr. Woodgates, Dr. Pope, Dr. Bayes.
The Secretary (Captain Maycock) having read the notice con-
vening the meeting, the chairman called upon Dr. Bayes, to
make a statement and bring forward the report of the Sub-
dommittee.
Dr. Bates said that those gentlemen who were present at the
last annual meeting would remember that it was proposed to
reconstruct the School at the expiration of the five years for which
it was originally instituted. It would be hardly worth while
reading again the whole report, which had been submitted to
4he annual meeting. There were some objections raised, par-^
690 MEETINGS OF SOCIETIES. ^'iS^
B«?iew, Mot. 1, IGBL
iicularlj by Dr. Yeldham, and after they bad been discossed, it
will be recollected that the annual meeting appointed the Sob-
Committee to reconsider the whole question, and to report again
to-day. Some of the snggestions made at the annual meeting
yriih regard to the appointment of clinical lectures in the Ho^tal
proved unacceptable to certain iriends of the Hospital, who feared
they would inyolve an ^* imperium in imperio " within the HospitaL
Under these circumstances, the scheme of endowing the dinical
lectureships was abandoned. The present lecturers had in an
exceedingly generous manner promised to continue their courses
of lectures without fee should the interests of the School necessi-
tate it, and that had put the authorities of the School at eaae, so-
far as the question of money was concerned. It was, howeT^ ,
hoped that the School would be possessed of enough means to
provide for the continuation of lectures without so complete a
sacrifice. The whole matter had been carefully ccmsidered by
the Sub- Committee, who had embodied their decision^ in the
report which he would now read.
[The report of ihe Sub- Committee, was printed at full length
in the last month*s Review, and need not be repeated here.~^£ds.]
Dr. Bayes then proposed that this report should be formally
adopted.
The proposition having been seconded by Dr. Bubneit, Dr.
Dtce Bbown, in response to a call from the chairman, said that
he would not detain the meeting by any lengthy statement of his
views, as they entirely coincided with those of the Sub-Conunittee
as expressed in the report which they had heard.
The Chairman asked whether any gentleman wished to make
any observations on the other side of the question.
Dr. Hughes said he had no remarks to make on the other side,,
but it had been suggested in another place that we should draw
back from the position taken up by the School, and acknowledge
that the scheme has been a failure. But while he was prepared
to admit that it has not yet fully succeeded, he could not allow
that it was a failure (hear, hear.) He quite agreed that it was
time the School became reconstituted, and ihe Sub-Committee
had drawn out the outlines or skeleton plan on which they ought
to work. There was only one proposition he would like to
trouble them with, and that was that they should substitute for
the two Honorary Secretaries a Dean and a Sub-Dean (hear,
hear). They knew on whom the duties of Dean would devolve
(hear hear), and they knew that that gentleman could hardly be
expected to perform them without assistance.
Dr. Pope would hke to ask Dr. Hughes whether he derived the idea
that some persons regarded the School as a failure from the report.
Dr. Hughes said he derived the idea from the concluding
remarks of the late President of the British Hommopathic Society
S3*?SrrSS* HOTABILIl. 601
Beview, Not. 1, tau.
in his last aimoal address. Those remarks had seemed to-
advise that they should confess to failure, hide their diminished
heads, and alter their name*
Major yAUOJBAN Moboan said that, at the last annual meeting,
he had quite felt the fcnrce of the objections raised by Dr.
Yeldham, but they had now been removed, and he now saw no-
objections to the proposed reconstruction of the School from the
Hospital point of view.
The motion that the report of the Sub-Committee be adopted
was then put to the meeting, and carried unanimously.
Dr. Baybs then said there was another matter upon which it
was their duty to pass a resolution, and that was the offer of the
Lecturers to continue their lectures gratuitously. He had also
had another ofier of fresh lectures, and their secretary had
generously come forward and offered to continue the duties of
his office at such rate of remuneration as could be afforded by
the School. He thought that a vote of thanks to those gentle-
men ought to be carried by acclamation.
The proposition, being seconded, was carried unanimously.
Dt, Bayes then said there was one other point. The report
having been adopted, it was necessaiy that a Sub- Committee .be
appointed to consider and advise as to the best methods of
carrying out its recommendations. They could not do better
than re-appoint the same Committee, and he therefore proposed
that Dr. Pope, Dr. Dyce Brown, Dr. Hughes, Dr. Burnett, and
Dr. Blaokley be appointed a Sub-Committee for that purpose.
Dr. Matheson seconded the motion, which was carried.
The meeting then terminated with a vote of thanks to the
chairman.
The result of this meeting, therefore, is that the School will
be continued as heretofore. The Governors are informed that
one guinea annually constitutes a governor, but it is hoped that
the wealthy will subscribe for l^ger amounts. The present
session shows a considerable iocrease of interest in the subject,
and the number of students attending the classes is fourteen
np to the 22nd October.— W.B.
NOTABILIA.
THE LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMCEOPATHY.
Ths work of this institution for the current session was inaugu-
rated on the 4th of October, by the delivery by Dr. Hughes of
the Hahnemannian Lecture in the Board-room of the hospital, in
Great Ormond Street. A large and attentive audience, consisting
chiefly of young men, was present — ^the room, indeed, waa-
thoroughly well filled.
^92 NOTABILU. ^^SSL, Nor. 1, 1«L
Dr. Hngbes took for his sabject, '* Halmeinaiiii as a Medical
Philosopher," as exhibited in his treatise entitled Orgamm ef
Medicine — the exposition and Tindieation of his therapeotie
method, appearing in fiye editions between 1810 and 18dd. The
leetnrer began by commenting on the title Orgamon^ showing
that the an&or designed it to recall Aristotle's treatises on logie
4Uid Bacon's great reform of philosophical enquiry. Hie method
set forth in this work was to be a new instrument for the dis-
covery of specific remedies, and a sabstitation of patient observa-
tion and experiment for the theorising prevalent at the time.
Beferring to the motto at first prefixed to it, he commented on
Hahnemann's hope for the fotore of medicine as based on his
Adth in the goodness of God ; and contrasted this with the hope-
less scepticism of the present day, as expressed in the ** Address
-on Medicine" recently deUvered by Dr. Bristowe before the
British Medical Association, and as illastrated by the conspienoos
absence of '' therapy " from the proceedings of the late Inter-
national Medical Congress. Passing now to the Organan itseU^
he described it as divisible into two parts, in each of which three
4nibjects were discussed — in the former doctainally, in the latter
practically. These constitute the three elements of his method,
and are — 1st, the knowledge of disease ; 2nd, the knowledge of
medicinal powers ; 8rd, the knowledge how to choose and
administer the remedy. The knowledge of disease which the
physician needs for curative purpoeis is declared by Hahnemann
to consist in a full and minute perception of his patient's symp-
toms, to the exclusion of all hypothesis. This position was
•vindicated against the charge that- it ignored pathology by
showing that symptoms are themselves a living pathology,
revealing disease at a stage when it may be remediable ; whereas
ihe morbid anatomy which now goes by the name exhibits only
the ultimate results of disease in incurable disorganisation.
Hahnemann's mode of ascertaining the virtues of medicines was
by '* proving " them on the healthy human body — a proceeding
now generally recognised, and to some extent adopted. He may
fairly be styled the father of experimental pharmacology. The
lecturer next exhibited Hahnemann's view as to how the
physician was to use his knowledge of drug-actien in the treat-
ment of disease. There are three, and three only conceivable
relations between the physiological effects of a drug and the
symptoms of a patient, and therefore only three possible ways of
applying the one to the other. The two may be altogether
diverse, as when an aperient is given to relieve a headache ; this
is aXLoRopatky. Or they may be cdrectly opposite, as when bromide
of potassium is used to force sleep on a subject wakeful from
.mental excitement ; this is antipathy. Or, thirdly, they may be
similar, as when strychnine is given for tetanus ; which is
^SS^STTS^ NOTABILU. 693
Beview, K<nr. 1, IfiHl.
homaop<Uhy^ The first is both anoertain and injnrions^ the
second, though often paUiative, is of limited applicability, and
subject to troublesome re-actions. Tbe third alone is harmless,
inexhaustibly fertile, complete and permanent. The lecturer
proceeded «to meet objections which had been made to this
argament of Hahnemann's, the only one of which he regarded as
TB^d being that it is too exclosive — ^antipathic palliatives hayings
a true and useful place in medicine. He touched briefly on the
practical details into which his author went, dwelling only on
that of dose. It was not, he showed, until the fifth edition of
the Orpanon was published (1888) that the 80th dilution was laid
down as the best for all medicines and in all cases. In the former
issues the dose was simply directed to be so small as to avoid
needless aggravations and collateral 8uffering8**-its precise
amount varying with the medicine used.
Some remarks were then made on certain features of the later
editions of the Organon, which were styled ** the romance of
homoeopathy.*' They were hypotheses — ^physiological, patho-
logical, pharmacological, in which Hahnemann like other men
indulged, and which he unfortunately thrust into a work which
originally was free from all such elements. They were those of
a '' vital force," of the origin of much chronic disease in psora-
(itcb), and of the dynamisation of drugs by trituration and
succussion. The lecturer was unable for lack of time to dwell
on these points. He declared himself quite able to clear Hahne-
mann from any disparagement in respect of them ; but nevertheless
regretted their appearance in the Organon^ and begged his hearers
to study that work without them, as might easily be done — ^they
formiug but a slight and no essential element in it.
He concluded by exhibiting the fruits of Hahnemann's medical -
philosophy, after the manner of Macaulay describing what Bacon
might have beheld as the result of the impulse he gave to science.
<* Gould he" — ^Hahnemann— *-*' have foreseen the medicine of
to-day, how much there would have been to gladden his heart !
He lived in a time When heroic antiphlogisticism was in full force ;
when physicians * slew,' as in Addison's day, ' some in chariots
and some on foot ' — ^when every sufierer from acute disease was
drained of his life-blood, poisoned with mercurials, lowered with
autimonials, and raked by purgatives. He denounced all this
as irrational, needless, injurious ; and it has fallen — ^never, we
trust, to resume its sway. The change thus wrought even in the
practice of the old school would be a matter for great thank]Fiil>
ness on his pa}:t ; but how his spirit would have bounded when
he looked upon the band of his own followers 1 The few
disciples made during his life-time have swelled into a company
of some ten thousand practitioners, who daily, among the millions
of their cUenUUf in their scores of hospitals and dispensaries and
«94 WTABILIA^ ^SS^J^C^^ISI^,
dbaritable home*, ewrry oat his beneficeDt refomi, makiiig tin
treatment of dieease the Gtiniple admixiistration of a few (mostly)
tasteless and odourless doses, and yet therewith so reducing its
mortality that their patients' lives can be assured at lower rates.
He would see the acordte and belladonna, the bryony and rAvt ,
the muB vomica and puhaHUa^ the ealearea, mlica, tulpkur, which
he created as medicines, playmg their glorious parts on an
extensive scale, robbing acute disease of its terrors and cfaronie
disease of its hopelessness. He would see his method erer
developing new remedies and winning new victories-— evoking
lachetis and apU, kali biehromicum^ geUendum, gaining laurels in
yellow fever as green as those which crowned it in the visitations
of cholera. He would see his principles gaining aeeess one by
one to the minds of physicians at large — the proving of medidneSy
the single remedy, the fraetional dose already accepted, and
selection by similarity half adopted under other ezpianatioDS
:and names. He might well feel, hke Bacon, about the PhUosopkia
Seeunda which should end his Instauratio magna. He had giv«B
its prodromi sive a$tUcipationes ; * the destinies of the human race
must c<Hnplete it — in such a manner, perhaps, as men, looki]^
only at the present, would not readily conceive.' The destinies
-of the human race, in respect of disease and its cure, are com-
pleting it ; and will be yet more profoundly modified for the
better as that completion goes on.
''With these thoughts," the lecturer said, "I commit the
&me of Hahnemann as a medical philosopher to the impartial
judgment of the great profession he has adorned."
On Thursday, the 6th of October, Dr. Pops commeneed tiie
course of lectures on Materia Medica, with one on the '* Principles
•of Drug-selection in Prescribing," in which, after describing the
several principles of drug-seleddon, he explained at some lengtii
the principle of homoeopathy, showed its advantages. Hid
43upported his arguments by evidence of the success which has
followed the adoption of homoeopathy in hospital practiee.
On the following day, Dr. Dtcb Bbcwn opened the lectaiei on
the ''Practice of Medicine," by setting forth the sdenlific
character ci homoeopathy.
On both occasions the lecture room was well filled, andfourtsA
students have entered their names as regular attendants on flie
classes. This, we believe, is the largest number with which any
session has commenced, and is just double that of last year.
TYPHOID FE7ER AT BRISTOL.
Foe some weeks past it has been known that an epidemic of
typhoid fever has been prevailing at Miiller's Orphanage on
Clifton Down, near Bristol. This institution consists of four
houses, each of which is managed independently of the oth^s,
^S^^Hf^S^ WOTABIMA. 696
'Oven to the extent of pxoeoring the food rappHes from diflerent
sources. The epidemie has been confined to one hooge. In it
eighty cases have occurred. They have all been nnder the care
of Dr. Enbnlns Williams, of Clifton, and all have recovered. The
testimony thus afforded to the value of homoBopathy in controlling
A disease ordinarily fatal in 14 per cent, of the cases that occur
is most important. Every effort was made by Dr. Davies, the
Medical Officer of Health for Bristol, and by Dr. Williams, to
trace the outbreak to its source, but so far, we believe, without
success. Dr. Davies, who, when visiting the house fbr the
purpose of sanitary inspection, saw many of the patients with
Dr. Williams, pointed to several who, he thought, had littie or no
chance of recovery. Through homoeopathy, however, all are
now well.
Dr. Williams had the opportunity of seeing his patients in an
early stage of the fever, and hence was able to utilise to the full
the curative power of baptisia, and this medicine he has found of
inestimable service.
Our readers will be interested to know that Dr. Williams has
kindly promised to furnish us, at as early a date as his engage-
ments will allow, with a paper giving an account of the epidemic
and its treatment.
HOM(EOPATHY IN YELLOW FEVER.
HoMCEOPATHzsTs, says The Echo, will be interested to learn that
homoeopathy is supplying the best cure for yellow fever. Writing
from Barbadoes, a correspondent says : — *' In sixty-one cases
treated by homoeopaths, only one proved fatal, and that simply
•on account of the medicine not being properly administered."
HOM(EOPATHY AND THE BRITISH MEDICAL
ASSOCIATION.
On this topic the Lancet of the 15th ult. writes: — ''At the
Committee of Council of the British Medical Association, held on
Wednesday last, we understand that a letter was read from the
President of one of the branches of the Association, stating that
Sk homoeopathic practitioner in his neighbourhood had been
admitted a member of the Association, and that unless his name
was removed from the list of members, he, the writer, would
feel compelled to resign his membership. An earnest discussion
ensued, in which the opinion was generally expressed that it was
distinctly contrary to tiie laws of the Association to admit homoeo-
paths as members, and opposed to the opinion and wishes of the
Committee of Council. As, however, the expulsion of any of
the members on account of homoeopathic practice would give
Ihose individuals both notoriety and a quasi-grievance, it was
696 HOTABiuA. "SSSL^^SrrSSf
Bsriew, Kor. 1, UBI .
i
considered best not to adopt the step suggested by the writer of
the letter. A resolution expressing these opinions, moved by Mr.
Husband, was earned ; an amendment, moved by Mr. G. Mae-
namara, to erase the said individual's name receiving only veiy
small support. We think that the decision of the Committee of
Council was wise ; at the same time it is evidently necessary that
the secretaries of the various branches should take great care
that the law of the Association bearing upon this point be not
infringed. We are informed that the views on the subject of
consultation with homoeopaths propounded by Dr. Bristowe and
Mr. Hutchinson in their present addresses at Byde were not in
any way discussed at this meeting. The Committee of Council
cannot be said to be pr^^cipitous in its haste to disavow them iot
the name of the Association.'*
GERMAN LAW AND HOMCEOPATHISTS.
The Cfieinist and Druggist informs us that " another interesting
case has been fought in the Cterman law courts relative to the
rights and position of homceopathic practitioners. Privy Coun-
cillor Professor Dr. liman, of Berlin, was 'required by the
Landgericht (Chief Court of Justice), at Potsdam, to give his
opinion as to whether a certain homoeopath had or had not acted
according to the rules of homceopathic art. Dr. Ldman de-
clined to express an opinion, saying that he could not consider
that a quack had any rule by which he acted, and suggested ta
the Court that it should apply in this matter to a homoropath or
a quack for the information it desired. Consequent on the pub-
lication of this rather contemptuous opinion, Dr. Liman was
sued for damuges by eight homoeopathists, and was in the first
instance sentenced by the Schoppengericht (County Court) to a
fine of 50 marks. He, however, appealed to a higher Court,
and in arguing his case he maintained that the homoeopathists
belonged to no recognised society, that there was at no University
a section for them, and that even at the London Congress, where
all kinds of medical persons, even dentists, found a place,
homoeopathists were excluded, and that, in fact, anyone might
call himself a homoeopathist without any qualification. In acting
as he had done, he considered he had only defended the medical
profession without having oflfended any one personally. The
Court considered Dr. Liman's views just, and acquitted him."
Either the '^ higher Courts " in Germany must be in the habit
of taking a defendant's statements as necessarily true, or the
*< eight homoeopathists " must have been singularly remiss in not
obtaining evidence to rebut Dr. Liman's statements. Dr. Liman,
for example, did not consider that "a quack," by which he
^oant, we suppose, a homoeopath, <^ had any rule by which he
■\
£^^KT5SS* NOTABiLu. 697
Seview« Not. 1, 18B1.
acted.'* Had this tmscmpnlons disdple of Ghden known any-
thing aboat the subject on which he spoke, he wonld have been
aware that homodopathic practitioners are the only medical men
who have any therapeutic rale by which they prescribe. Then,
again, he says that there is at no nniversity a section for homoeo-
pathists. There is such a section at the University of Pragne, in
Hungary — at those of Michigan, Iowa, and Boston in the United
States. Finally, at the London Congress homooopathists were not
excluded. It is within our knowledge that a goodly number
attended the meetings of the various sections, and at the Materia
Medica section, at least half-a-dozen spoke.
Dr. Liman is at fully thirty years behind the age in describing
the position of homoeopathists. He must be a very ignorant
person. How such an one can have become a Privy Councillor
and a Professor, is not easy to understand.
MEMORIAL OF THE LATE PRESIDENT GARFIELD, AT
THE BOSTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE.
A MEETING of the faculty and alumni of the Boston University
School of Medicine, was recently held at the College, East Con-
cord Street ; Dr. I. T. Talbot, the Dean, in the chair. In calling
to order. Dr. Talbot addressed the meeting as follows : —
'< We need add no words of sadness to the grief of the world
that President Oarfield is dead. If to the darkest cloud there is
a silver lining, may we not find it in the glorious example of him
whom we mourn ? Bom under the most adverse conditions, we
find bim through the struggles of bitter poverty acquiring a broad
and thorough education, which gave him an elevated position
among scholars. When called to the defence of the country,,
his wonderful energies freely given rendered invaluable service,
and, as a legislator and statesman, even in the highest position
his country could give him, his efforts were untiring and his
faithfulness knew no limit. Even in his last days of sickness
and pain, his hopeful patience was such as the physician, better
than others, can appreciate and admire. AltogeUier, his death
has been a glorious example for us, and his life will be a great
inheritance to the nation if it but emphasises and impresses that
example upon us. May we not, then, first ask What are our
duties / They are not, of course, to imitate him in the work he
was called upon to do, but in our own work to imitate the sam&
energy, faithfulness, perseverance, and conscientiousness. As
physicians we owe him our regard for the respect in which he-
held our profession. As reformers in medicine we owe him
especial esteem for the courtesy and confidence he ever extended
toward us, exemplified in the positive request that one of our
school should remain with him throughout his long sickness.
Ko. 10, Vol. 25. 2 z
\
«»8 NOTABILIA, ^^Sr^rgSi!
As physicians, then, as reformers in medicine, as Mends of the
dead Qarfield, who through life was our friend, and, let ns trosi,
whose friendship goes heyond this life, what duties have we to
perform ? It is not to bculd monnments of stone or brass, but
may we not do better far, and, in benefiting oar profession and
hnmanity, may we not so associate his name and his example
that oar associates and oar successors shall bear in mind his
worth, and feel his friendship ? '*
Prof. Smith moved the adoption of the following resohitions.
'' Whereas, in the death of President Garfield, the soldier,
patriot, and statesman, the nation has sustained an irreparable
loss, and in the demise of the ripe scholar, and staunch finend of
education, this school, in common with every institution of
learning in the land, has lost a firm support ; ther^ore
' ' Resolved, that, in honour and in memory of our late President,
who, in spite of poverty and obstacles, acquired unusual learning
and usefulness, and who was ever ready to assist those straggling
for the same worthy objects, we will establish a fund, to be
known as the Gkurfield Schohurship Fund, the income of which
shall be used to aid worthy and needy students in this school,
who are striving to obtain a professional education.*'
'' Besolved, that we call upon all the alumni and friends of
Boston University School of Medicine to unite with as in adding
to this fund, and thereby not only aid the school but also assist
the meritorious to a life of greater usefulness, and serve to per-
petuate the memory of one whose whole life is a noble example
to the world.*'
Prof. Smith supported the resolations with brief remarks, and
being seconded by Dr. Clapp, they were adopted. It was voted
to appoint a conmiittee of two from the faculty, and three from
the alumni to have charge of the subscriptions, and Dr. Talbot,
Dr. Hastings, Dr. Shaw, Dr. J. W. Clapp, and Dr. M. L. Gummings
were constituted the committee. IVof. Smith moved that the
•executive committee prepare and forward to Dr. Boynton resola-
tions expressive of the appreciation of his conduct during bis
attendance upon President Grarfield, and the motion was adopted,
alter which the meeting adjourned.
THE LADIES* SANITABY ASSOCIATION.
Tms Association has for its object the educating of the poor in
flaniiaiy matters. It was originally founded by Dr. Both, many
years ago, and has been the source of publication of numeioos
tracts and books, all bearing upon the sanitary needs of a healthy
home and healthy children.
Dr. W. B. BioBABDSOH is delivering a course of lectores, at
Exeter Hall, in behalf of the Association, ** On Domestic Sam-
tatiozi."
It^SSTfS^ NOTABILIA. 699
iL&^riiBW, Not. It
The foUowing is an extract from the eironlar appealing for
fdnds: —
** It is an acknowledged fact, that by far the greater part of
the debility, disease, and premature mortality in this eonntry,
.xesnlts from preventable causes ; but very few preventative
measures, bearing upon the personal habits of the people, have
yet been adopted.
'* The promoters of this Association, convinced that one of
the principal causes of a low physicial condition is ignorance of
the laws of health, have combined to extend and popularise
flanitaiy knowledge.
For this purpose :—
*^ 1st. — They write and distribute simple interesting Tracts on
sanitary and domestic subjects. The greater part of
these are written specially for the poor.
<<2nd. — They establish Loan Libraries of popular books, on sub-
jects relating to health and social well-being.
** 8rd. — ^They arrange for the delivery of practical Lectures on
Healtii, Sanitary Improvements, and Domestic Economy.
*^ 4th — They form Branch Associations in various localities for
carrying on practical sanitary work.
** a. By distribution of the Tracts among the poor of the
district and in Schools, Hospitals, and Mother's
Meetings.
b. By collecting money for Sajiitary improvements,
such as opening windows, curing smoky chim-
neys, removing nuisances, giving soap and lime
for white-washing, lending books, patterns of
clothes, scrubbing brushes, saucepans and
cooking receipts.
c. By requesting the Medical Officers of Health and
otiier professional and well-educated gentlemen
to deliver popular free Lectures.
d. By instituting. Mothers' Meetings, and Glasses of
Adult Girls, and giving them sanitary and
domestic instruction.
s. By forming or aiding Penny Clothing Clubs, Coal
Clubs, Baths, and Wash-houses, Temperance
Associations, Cooking Depots, and Working
Men's Clubs.
/• By establishing Nurseries for motherless babes,
which may serve as Schools for Mothers of all
classes. Schoolmistresses, and Nurses.
** The Association is entirely dependent upon voluntry contri-
butions, and the Committee earnestly solicit the aid of all who
are interested in Sanitary Reform.
The secretary is Miss Bose Adams, and the office 22 Bemers
Street.
2 z-9
700
NOTABILIA.
BmwiBW, KoT. 1, un.
THE "EPPS" PRIZE.
prize of JglO, whicli was generonsly offered bj Mr. James
EppB, of Upper Norwood, for the best collection of 20 cases^
fllnstrating the action of homceopathic remedies, has been awarded
to Mr. Samuel Hahnemann Blake, of Liyerpool. It will be
remembered that the similar prize given last year by Dr. Prater,
was awarded to Mr. Blake. These cases will be published by
degrees in our pages.
Should any of our liberal subscribers offer a similar prize for
next year, we shall be glad to hear from them.
MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT OF THE CANTERBURY
HOMCEOPATHIC DISPENSARY.
We have received the annual report of this institution, and have
pleasure in observing its continued prosperity and usefulness,
under the medical care of Dr. Barnes. We notice with mncli
pleasure that a subscription of two guineas is again sent to the
London HomoBopathic Hospital. Were aU provincial dispen-
saries to follow this generous example, the fimds of the hospital
would be largely increased. The following are the details : —
Cases treated during the year, 217.
Cured ... 142
No Report
Relieved
Dead ...
No better
On the books
Left Canterbury
21
14
4
6
28
7
217
In addition, some 500 gratuitous visits were paid.
Very many patients have been treated who were unable to
obtain tickets.
Three patients were sent to the London Homoeopathic Hospital,
and two to the Hahnemann Convalescent Home (Bournemouth),
all of whom were greatly benefited from their stay at these
institutions. — ^Donald Batnes, A.M., M.D., F.RG.8.
DR. NEALE'S MEDICAL DIGEST FOR 1882.
One of the most useful books published by the Sydenham
Society is Dr. Neale's Medical Digest. It consists of references
to papers on medical, surgical, and obstetrical subjects, in all
iheir relations, which have appeared in the leading medical
journals of this country for forty years. On almost any subject,
physiological, pathological, or therapeutical, one ean find all
that has been written on it by so-called '^ orthodox" physicians,
lS^#.r;nSg!^ NOTABILU. 701
isnrgeons, and professors. Having had frequent occasion to nse
it, we can testify to its great valae to aU students of medicine.
A new edition is in course of preparation, bringing the work
up to the end of the present year. It will contain, we are told,
'20,000 additional references to papers that have appeared in the
medical periodicals during the five years subsequent to the
first edition ; The British Medical Journal^ The Medical Record,
and the PraeHtumer having been added to the list of journals
jreferred to in the first edition.
It is being published by subscription, and only so many copies
'Will be struck off as are subscribed for. There wiU be two edi-
iions, an octavo, price 18s. 6d. ; and an oblong quarto, with
-broad margins for future notes, price 17s. Applications for
copies should be made to the Secretary, 60, Boundary Boad,
London, N.W.
THE MODERN MEDICAL STUDENT.
The average London medical student of to-day enters the
Jhospital as a boy of about eighteen years of age. He is generally
fairly well-dressed, and adverse to slangy habits, though he very
seldom sets himself to become the mirror of fashion. He is very
eager to dissect his first ** part,** and does not object to osteology;
if of a mechanical or artistic turn of mind he likes to prepare
and mount microscopical specimens ; but he shows less energy
in the study of physiology, and has Httle or no taste for ihe
collateral sciences. It is proverbial that during the winter
session the chemistry lecture is, on this accoxmt, generally the
scene of the least orderly conduct. The first year's man has
the deepest admiration for the medical staff of his hospital, and
an implicit belief in their teaching — a very wholesome instinct
for a learner. His faith in the superiority of his medical school
^ver all others is often unbounded. Hence, even if too studious
to join in the sports and games of the athletic clubs of his hos-
pital, he delights to see how his '* team ** or ** eleven *' have
beaten another hospital at football or cricket. Nobody can
thoroughly like or trust what he cannot understand, hence the
junior student is generally prejudiced against the lay authorities
of his hospital. He cannot comprehend why non-medical men
should be put over the experts whom he so deeply honours. He
has grounds for his prejudice, but has to learn that for the
managemeut of technical institutions the ruling body should not
be wholly technical.
The modem student likes to pass his ** first college " at the end
•of his second winter session, and always feels more or less dis-
concerted if he be not ready for that ordeal at the earliest
possible date. Owing to the severity of the test, however, rejection
'does not involve so deep a stigma as formerly. During his last two
702 NOTABU.U. "^Sa
JMiiisVt TXoT. If
years the stadent alters somewhal from his earlior type. He has
his preferences, as before, and likes surgery as a role better than
medicine ; midwifery, wiUi all its offensive snrroimdiDgB, is not
so very distasteful to him, as there is something adTentnroas in
watching patients night after night in a back slum ; besides, h»
knows that he is training for a veiy important brandi of practice.
The advanced student is apt to be more critical than he has the
right to be over the relative merits of members ef the staff. Hia
views concerning the lay governors are also, for snndiy reasonB»
apt to undergo great modification* He always looks forward to
qualification, for then he becomes a *' medical man *' or *' the
doctor," not simply a student. Then he can become house-
surgeon, or take a long holiday, and afterwards join his father as
a partner, or set up on his own account, according to cixcum-
stances.
The average student is never a Bohemian ; indeed, free and easy
habits, especially in the wards, are looked on with discredit by
the pupils of London schools. It was till recently the minority
that wore short coats and low hats, and smoked wooden pipes in
the day-time, but of late this style has become more general
among the youth of England in every profession, and particularly
in high life, and the medical student is only faUing in with the
fashion. The student is, as a rule, rather a hard than a moderate
worker, even in cases where he works by fits and starts ; he is
still too apt to look on work as consisting of learning text-books
by heart, and to love dry condensations in preference to standard
works.
The average student does not fail in his earlier examinationSr
hence he is not of the *' chronic " type, which includes the
inert and the still more objectiouable varieties of his coUeaj^es.
We do not include under the heading of *' average " the students
who come from the two old English Universities, who can teach
much to their hospital fellow-students in matters of style and
method of learning, but also can sometimes learn a great deal from
those who have not had the same advantages.
As to the student's moral character, that is entirely an indiri-
dual question, and so are his habits. In a large hospital where
there is a '' college," we observed, some years since, resident
students who spent their leisure time in the most varied manner,,
some playing Uie piano or violin, some studying the dead lan-
guages, even Celtic literature, some actively joining the hospital
athletic clubs, and others without any special tastes merely taking
long rambles when not at work. Every one of these students^
varied as were their habits, passed their final examinations, and
have settled in practice or in hospital appointments. The tendency
to level all to one common type, even in non-technical matters^
does not exist among medicfd studentSi nor are the moderately
eocentric so liable to pertinacious ridicole as elsewhere. Is not
this spirit rather advantageous to those who haye not, hereafter,
to adopt the uniform method of the pulpit, the bar, or the parade-
ground, but have to meet the innumerable contingencies of prac-
tice, and to deal in a different manner with the varied prejudices
and tastes of patients ?
Such is the average student of to-day. We have only roughly
sketched the outline. He has not yet been fiilly and impartially
discussed in print ; he has been calumniated as a rule, or in very
exceptional cases elevated into a hypothetical being wrapped in
the cause of abstract scientific progress. As a matter of fact the
average student is nearer to the type of which we have given a
slight, superficial and hasty glimpse. — British Medical Journal.
PHYSICIANS TO GEORGE IH.
'* The King employed three doctors daily —
Wi}lis, Hebeitien, and Baillie.
All exceedingly skilful men,
Baillie, Willis, Heberden ;
But doubtful which most sure to kill is —
Baillie, Heberden, or Willis.
VACCINATION IN CHINA.
A BEOBMT speech of Sir John Pope Hennessey, Governor of
Hong-Kong, contains an iuteresting account of the spread of
vaccination among the Chinese, not only of the colony, but of
the empire. No port is more hable to the introductiou of small-
pox, yet it never spreads there. The health officer of the colony
was also astonished to find that nearly all the young Chinese
emigrants had vaccination or inoculation marks on their arms.
That inoculation has been practised in China, as in other Eastern
countries, from time immemorial, was already known, but the
adoption of vaccination is quite recent, and he was surprised to
find it so generally and perfectly performed. On inquiry he learnt
that the native doctors of the Tung-wa hospital — a charitable
institution supported by the voluntary contributions of Chinese
merchants and others — not only vaccinated their countrymen
in the colony itself, but actually sent travelling vaccinators over
the acyoining provinces of China. In this way thousands of
persons have been vaccinated during the past four years. The
lymph is supplied to them by the Governor, who gets it by every
mail in his dispateh*bag from Downing Street. — Medical Time*
and Gazette,
704 NOTABILIA. '^SL^i
Beviev, Nar. 1« IflBL
ABSINTHE.
The consumption of this sednctiye, health-destroying linear
appears to be on the increase, and it is now, according to Mr,
Winter Blyth, sold in a large number of places in Marylebone,
for which parish he is the public analyst and medical officer of
health. It seemed to him, therefore, a right and proper thing
to chemically examine samples of this liquid, which was done.
Absinthe is a yellowish green liqueur, which contains, as a
peculiar ingredient, a poisonous oil having a deleterious effect on
the nerrous system ; the oil is called wormwood oil, and is pro-
duced in nature by the Artemisia Abnntkium. Other flavouring
oils are always added, such as peppermint, angelica, cloves,
cinnamon, and aniseed. The colour is produced by the juice of
nettles, spinach, or parsley ; or, in other words is due to the
common green ** chlorophyll,*' found in all green plants. Most
samples of absinthe contain sugar. The average composition of
absinthe is as follows : Absolute alcohol, in 100 parts, 50.00 ;
oil of wormwood, .88 ; other essential, oils, 2.52 ; sugar, 1.50;
chlorophyll, traces ; water, 45.65. Alcohol causes drunken sleep;
alcohol and absinthe combined produce convulsions. The poor
wretches given up to absinthe drinking suffer from a peculiar
train of nervous symptoms, the most prominent of which is
epilepsy of a remarkably severe character, terminating in
softening of the brain and death. The last moments of the
absinthe drinker are often trulv horrible. M. Yoisin records a
case in which a man was picked up in the pubhc street in an
epileptic fit. He was known to be a large consumer of absinthe.
The convulsions lasted until death — four days and four nights.
During the last five or six hours of life, the skin of the £ace
became almost black. — British Medical JotimaL
THE DISADVANTAGES OF COD-UVER OIL FOR
YOUNG CHILDREN.
AccoBDiNO to the Revue Afedicale, the Council of Public Health
has recently submitted for the sanction of the Academy of
Medicine of Paris a report on the disadvantages of cod-liver oil
administered to infants and young children. The Commission
on the hygiene of infancy has not yet reported its opinion on
this subject ; but the accusatious brought against this medicine
by the Council of Hygiene are worth notice. All physicians are
aware what disastrous infiuence is exercised on the health of
young infants by defective alimentation, and especially animal
nourishment ; fatty matters are as little suited to the alimentation
of the newly-born infants as albuminoids, excepting always casein,
which exists normally in milk, and is found to be perfecilf
assimilable. In fact, in the first period of life, the joioes
Ss^^^rra?* notabilu. 705
Baview, Kor. 1, 1881.
necessary for emulsifying fatiy nuitiers are almost entirely
wanting. The liver, in spite of its enormoas development in
this stage of existence, secretes only a smaU quantity of bile ;
and the researches of Langendorf and Zweifel have proved that,
in yoong children, pancreatic juices possess an emulsive power
which is almost nil, or, at least, very slightly marked. These
physiological considerations sufficiently indicate that — ^far from
being profitable to the infant — fatty matters, and especially cod-
Uye/oS, can only injure its hedthfand gra.ely co^romiL the
integrity of its digestive functions. — British Medical Journal.
BROMIDE RASH.
A PATIENT, under the care of Dr. Percy Boulton, of the Samaritan
Hospital, suffering from pelvic neuralgia, took between the 12th
and 19th of October, three grains of hrcnmde of iron, three times
a day, when its discontinuance was directed in consequence of a
few spots appearing on the face, suggestive of a bromide rash.
A fortnight afterwards she returned ''with her legs covered
pretty uniformly with a discrete pustular eruption.'* Dr. Boulton
felt sure that the eruption was non-specific ; it resembled
pustular eczema (ecthyma) more than any other kind of erup-
tion. He then asked Dr. Thin to examine the skin, and on its
4K)ndition he makes the following interesting remarks in The
Lancet of the 15th ult. : — '
" The chief interest in this case, in so far as the eruption is
4soncemed, lies in the fact that, although the diagnosis was at
the first glance by no means easy, it was yet possible to make
out the nature of the rash from its objective characters alone.
I diagnosed a bromide or iodide eruption before I was informed
that either of these agents had been given. When the woman
presented herself to me on November 2nd, the anterior surfaces
of both thighs and both legs were thickly studded with papules
and pustules. There were a few on the back and on the
shoulders and arms, but none on the rest of the body. Practi-
•cally the seat of the eruption was the unusual one of iiie anterior
surfaces, exclusively of the lower extremities. The papules, I
was informed, were the early stage of the pustules, the latter
Attaining the size of a large pea. The first appreciable stage
was a small hard subcutaneous swelling.
''The three stages of the lesion were thus — ^induration,
imflammation, and suppuration of a given point in the skin.
The special character of the eruption was found in the last of
these stages. The free bullous pustule in which the infiamma-
tion terminated is rarely found in any recognised form of skin
disease. The lesions in certain forms of secondary syphilis most
xesembled it, but to my mind they were excluded by the uncom-
I
706 HOTABILIA.
.1,
plicated ohancter of tlie pastnle and by tlie localiBiiHwi A
syphilitic dennatiiiB which produced so much free sapecficbl
postolation would have been oniYerBal, and would have led either
to an abundant formation of nipiai crusts or to snpecfidii
ulceration.
"Bat whilst the emption differed from all known forma of
skin disease it coincided in its principal characten with the
lesions now known to be characteristic of certain forma of iodide
and bromide emptions.
'* Further enquiry ehcited the information which is contained
in Dr. Bouiton's report in regard to the administration of the
bromide of iron. The patient further informed me that the
eruption on the legs began whilst she was taking the medicine,
and that new papules had continued to appear up to the time I
first saw her. The eruption was left to itself, and when I svr
her ten days afterwards, the smaller lesions had disappeared,
and the position of the larger pustules was marked by daik-
brown or copper-coloured spots, with dry adherent scales on the
centre."
HEADACHES.
The approach of the winter season will, with a lage number of
people, be inaugural of a recurrent headache, for which they sie
unable to account at all satisfiactorily, but which experience has
taught them to expect as surely as fires and " snugness " are
rendered necessary to personal comfort. It would be well if all
such sufierers were to understand the rationale of the complaint
that periodically attacks them, and be wise in time to ward df
the return of tiieir old malady. In every case where the hesd*
ache is not dependent on some organic disturbance, and when it
is felt only during the colder months of the year, especially in
large towns, it is undoubtedly due to the vitiated atmosphere of
rooms lighted by gas, and rendered **snug" by close-drawn
curtains and draught-excluding doors, while a brilliant fire ia
maintained for heating purposes. This latter is, indeed, the
only preventive under the circumstances of an absolutely poisonona
condition of the air, which is very seriously contaminated
wherever a gas-light is employed for illumination. Careful ob-
servation of the efiects gradually produced by prolonged continu-
ance in such an apartment, will reveal the fact that a feeling of
oppression, becoming gradually more intense, steals over one;
and in an increased degree accordingly as the number of
occupants of the room is added to. The atmosphere becomes
thus heavily laden with carbonic acid, the products of combustion
of the gas and of the human tissues ; failmg any firee ventilation
this rapidly accumulates, an insignificant amount alone finding
exit by the chimney, and acting on the nervous system of those
^sss^^rrse?^ kotabuja. 707
BeTi0w, Nov. 1, 1881.
UBing the room, indnoes cerebral congestion that results in serious
disturbances, which are relieyed only after a more or less painful
period of indisposition. The remedy for the e^il is in efficient
and constant ventilation, a necessity that every householder
should see is secured in all the rooms of hiB dwelling before they
are transformed into winter habitations. — Medical Press.
AUTOMATIC REGISTRATION OF BODY TEMPERATURE.
A Mxw form of thermograph, capable of recording automatically
the rise and fall of temperature of the body for a given length of*
time, has been recentiy invented (we learn from the Sdeindfic
American) by Dr. Adams, of Colorado Springs. Its principle
is, causing the electrical resistance of a fine powder in a tube to
vary by means of pressure derived from heat. A vulcanite tube
is filled with a fine powder made of plumbago, gas carbon, and
silver ; these contents abutting at either end against a platinum
knob. One knob is attached to a hard rubber bracket, and the
other (which imparts the varying pressure) to the free end of a
spiral spring, constituting the thermometer proper. This spring
is made of two slips of brass and steel, soldered together, the
brass occupying the outer side. The more expansible brass, on
rise of temperature, causes the free end of the spring with its
terminal knob to twist, and so exert increasing pressure on the
tube-contents. An electric current is sent through the substance
in the tube, entering and leaving by binding posts ; and its
variations with the varying pressure affect an ingenious electro-
magnetic mechanism, which produces on a moving surface a
sinuous line, the graphic representation of the changes of tem-
perature. The thermometric part of the apparatus is suitably
enclosed in a circular, perforated German-silver case, which is
secured in proper position in the armpit. Dr. Adams is arranging
to obtain on the same strip of paper, not only a curve of the
febrile condition of a patient, but also a sphygmographic and
respiratory curve, so that the interrelationship of these cardinal
symptoms under varying circumstances may be easily studied.
—The Times.
CENTENARIANS OF ANTIQUITY.
Solon, Thales, Pittacus, Epimenides, four of the seven sages of
Greece, exceeded a century in age, according to Lucian, who
fixes the date of their deaths at 600 years b.c. Epinides, poet
and historian, died at the age of 154 years, according to Pliny.
Aristarchus, a tragic poet of Tegaea, in Arcadia, died a century
old, about the year 460 b.c. The comic poet, Cratinus, of
Athens, died at 98 years of age, in the year 431 b.c.
Aeoording to Valerius Maximus, Sophocles composed *< (Edipus"'
708 NOTABiLiA. ''g^^gryg
when he was nearly 100 years old, ahont 405 b.c. The satineal
poet, Demoeritas, died at the age of 109, in the year 861 b.c.
Gorgias, of Leonttnm, died at 108, in the year 400 b.c. !D»
great orator, Isocrates, is said to have starred himsdf at 99
years of age, ahont the year 888 b.c. Hippocrates, tiie father of
medicine, died at the same age, 861 years b.o. The philosopher,
Theophrastas, died at 107, about the year 288 b.c. Cleantbes,
of Epims, disciple of Zeno, died at 100, about 1!he year ^ b.c.
The historian, Hieronymus, of Rhodes, died at the age of 104,
about 254 b.c. The immortal Galen died almost a eentenariaa,
like his great predecessor, Hippocrates, in the year 193. The
philosopher, Demonax, of Crete, starved himself to death at 100
years of age, in the reign of Adrian, 120 ^.d. The Bomaos
have also their centenarians, but their dates are often im-
recorded. Juvenal is said to have died a centenarian, a J). 120.
Terentius Yarro, of Atax, died at 98, a.d. 28. Quintios Fabioi
Maximus died a centenarian in the year 107. Perennius Tatos,
died at 111 years of age, at Cornelia, in the year 117. B
appears from this list, as collected from the Lyon Medical, thai,
in ancient times, some people had already acquired a habit of
allowing themselves to die of hunger ; and Dr. Tanner, with his
long fast, is only a plagiarist. The ancients had, however, as a
justification, their great age ; and they might reasonably think
that they had lived long enough. — British Medical JaurfuU.
A NEW METHOD OF REMUNERATION FOR MEDICil
SERVICES.
Mr. Henby Dodd, a wealthy dust contractor, lately deceased, ^
a far-seeing man. By his will he bequeathed to his medical
attendant a legacy of two thousand pounds, to he paid only in
the event of his living for two years after the date of the bequest;
if he lived for five years the amount was to be increased to
three thousand pounds, and had he survived that period his grati-
tude would doubtless have taken an even more substantial
pecuniary form. Unfortunately, however, for both testator and
legatee, the ingenious dust contractor died within a week of
making the will, and the bequest has consequently lapsed. Stifli
the notion was an original, and by no means a bad one. 'Da
•doctor is looked upon as a necessary evil. His assistance is only
invoked when mischief is done, and he has constantly to combii
at a disadvantage disease which might have been prevented. ^
instead of calling him in when we feel indisposed, we were to
contract with the family physician to keep us in health, it wonU
be obviously better for both parties concerned. The doetor
would not receive, perhaps, such large fees for indiWdav
attendances, but he would have a less fluctuating somce d
ISSSil'SrrS^ NOTABILU. 709
Beriew, Not. 1, 18B1.
income ; while the patient, on his part, might introduce into the
compact a system of fines by which his medical attendant should
be mulcted for any pains or illness which might attack him, the
amount of the fine to be determined by the gravity of the case.
It is true that, like Sancho Panza^s physician, our medical
advisers might, now and then, interfere with our diet and
habits in a rather arbitrary manner ; but in most instances we^
should be the gainers by such surveillance. The system, again,
might lead to a new form of litigation — a general practitioner,
for instance, praying for an injunction to prevent a gouty Alder-
man from attending a City banquet, or a patient suing the doctor
for damages on account of a toothache which should have been
avoided by medical precautions. The Chinese have a method of
paying their doctors by results, and the system is at least worth
a trial. Wealthy people, also, with too expectant or ungrateful
heirs, might often make a worse use of their money than applying
it, like the late Mr. Dodd, to the potential prolongation of Uieir
own lives, so far as this lies in the power of medical skill. It is
to be regretted that the first recorded experiment of the kind has
not been more successful. — The Standard.
A MALICIOUS DRUGGIST.
A MAN who at one time dealt in drugs and groceries at Rome,
N. Y., had the curiosity to keep the bulk of the misspelled notes
which he received from various sources, and paste them in a
scrap-book. The Sentinel publishes half a column of specimens,
from which we cull the folloning :
One small scrap of paper contains simply the words, *' Car
boHck assid.'*
Another contains the cabalistic words, '' Surep epcak."
No one except a druggist would know that the person who
wrote for ' ' perovd bark and alius ' ' wanted Peruvian bark and aloes . .
The person who wrote for *' one ounce of grose of suppliment ' '
wanted corrosive sublimate, no doubt.
A person with a weak back writes for a '' Bourous Plaster."
A <* shamie leather skin " is called for by a person who wants
a chamois skin.
'' Bickrement of potash," which is called for in one note, pro-
bably means bichromate of potash.
In another note, bichromate of potash is tortured into, *' prock
mate of potash."
'' Bludroot " and ** liqurash " are called for in another note.
Some persons wrote for '^annff yellow to culler to bbls. of
cotton rags."
Opodeldoc is spelled <* oberdelduck" in one note, and in
another seidlitz powders come in for the following : '* Sutlife.
powders.'
»»
710 OBITUABY. Bemw.K*r.i;ia8L
li was a very carefol peracm who wrote magnesia thus:
«< Ifag-ne-cia.'*
An ounce of " read percipitj " is called for in another note.
" Corgal for a baby " ia aalDsd for in one note, and two omiees
** Gamfur " in another.
The simple word " Amicky " stands oat solitary and alone on
a small scrap of paper. It cannot be taken for anything in the
dmg line except arnica.
Here is one that " takes the cake/* as the boy says: "Keyaa
pepper. Gam fore» Lod nom, Bhen bub. Pepper mint.'*
Dail^ News f Ann-Aibor, Mich.)
BRITISH HOMCEOPATHIC SOCIETY.
The next meeting of this Society will be held on Thnrsday next^
the 8rd inst., when a paper will be read by Mr. Deane Batcher,
of Beading.
OBITUARY.
DAVm BRAINERD DALZIELL, M.D.
We deeply regret to annoonce the sadden death, on the 11&
nit., of Dr. Dalziell, of Malvern. He was actively engaged in the
daties of his profession on the 10th. On the morning of the
11th, he was sammoned to a patient at five o'clock. Not feding
well, he sent some medicine, and ordered a carriage to come
roond at half-past six. When preparing to go, he was seised
with a spasmodic pain in the region of the heart, and compelled
to lie down again. He requested Mr. Croker, of Malvern Link,
to see his patient for him, and to report the condition soon after
nine, when he hoped to be able to visit her himself. At nine
o'clock, however, the pain retnmed, and death followed almost
immediately. For many years Dr. Dalziell has been folly aware
that he had valvular disease of the heart. It was, we beheve,
the relief he got years ago from homoeopathic treatment
that indaced him to study and practise our method, of which
he was ever a thorough though unobtrusive advocate. Dr«
Dalziell was a member of an old Scotch fomily, and owned
an estate called Glenae, in Lanarkshire, we think. He gradu-
ated at Marischal GoUege, Aberdeen, in 1858, and subsequently
resided for short periods at Warminster, in Wiltshire, tA
Lympley Stoke, near Bath, and at Buxton, ehiefly, we believe,
in search of health. In 1867 he settled at Malvern, a loealitj
which, in spite of its hills putting undue stress upon the heart,
he found to suit him better than any other. There he has
since resided, ezgoying the confidence and esteem of as
•ever increasing circle of patients and friends.
it^^rrSSS^ OBITUABT. 711
'^BLenerWt Nor* 1, 18M.
In the course of a wanxily appreciative notice of onr departed
<K>]leagae, the editor of the Malvern Advertiser writes as
follows : '* It is bejond oar sphere to discuss Dr. Dalziell's
merits as a medical man ; but we may make a passing note,
that no one ever engaged in the important work of a physi-
cian, who used his skill and knowledge more lavishly for his
I)atient's wefd and with less regard for self-aggrandisement.
It is well known that Dr. Ddziell's practice had latterly
^eatly increased, but the proportion of his gratuitous services
more than kept pace with his growing repute and engage-
ments. To the poor his advice and time were as cheerfully
|[iven as to his wealthiest patients, and he had the happy
art of conferring a favour so delicately that the recipient was
never made to feel the obligation. Dr. Dalziell was, however,
less known as a skilful physician than as a man of the most
active sympathy with all the great religious and benevolent
agencies of the day. Eminently religions, he was free from party
spirit and denominational exclusiveness. We suppose he was a
Nonconformist, but he as heartily co-operated wiUi churchmen
as with dissenters in any movement that commended itself to his
judgment ; and in the advocacy of any cause it was enough for
him that ^e work was good to secure his help."
T. HALE TUDGE, M.D., M.R.C.S., Eng.
Fbom the same cause, and, we believe, with parallel suddenness,
occurred a few weeks ago the death of Dr. Tudge, of Yeovil, in
Somersetshire. He was an active and useful member of the
profession, and much respected in the district in which he lived
and laboured.
We have been requested to state that a memoir of our
deceased colleague will bo published early next month by
Dr. Kiddle, of Bristol.
H. BOBEBTSON, Esq.
We have also been informed of the death of Mr. Bobertson, of
Shrewsbury, in the 75th year of his age. Mr. Bobertson was
well-known in London thirty or forty years ago as the assistant
and friend of the late Dr. Hering, with whom he remained untlL
he retired from practice. Mr. Bobertson then removed to
Birmingham, where he was connected with the Homoeopathic
Hospital. About ten years ago he settled in Shrewsbury, where
he died on the 14tii ult. Besides being a well-informed
practitioner, Mr. Bobertson was possessed of highly cultivated
literary tastes. He was one of the most learned Shakespearian
scholars of the day.
712 COBBESPOIiDENCE. '^^
B0fiev,ir<iT.l,lflBL
CORRESPONDENCE.
HAHNEMANN PUBLISHING SOCIETY.
Gentlemen, — ^If it will save trouble to the physicuuis who are
engaged on the Hahnemann Materia Mediea, my MSS. of
poisonings extracted from the allopathic journals are at their
service.
Yonrs,
W. Bebbidgk.
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
^\ We cannot undertake to return rejected manuseripte.
Contribators and Cozrespondentfl are leqneeted to notice the aUeratkn-
in the address of one of the Editors of this Betnew.
Gommnnications, &e., hare been zeeeived from Dr. Bqanara, Dr.
BzBBmoE, Capt. Matoock, Miss Rosa Apams, Mr. Gboss (London);
Dr. Kbnnxdt (Blackheath) ; Dr. WnxuMS (Clifton); Dr. Bates, Dr.
Hughes (Brighton) ; Dr. EmnuB (Bristol) ; Dr. WauiACS (Parsonstovn).
BOOKS RECEIVED.
' Notes on Coneumption, By S. Moznsson, M.D., London. HomcBopathie-
Pnblishing Company.
British Journal of Homaopathy,
Homaopathie World,
Chemist and Druggist.
Student's Journal,
Monthly Magazine of Pharmacy.
North American Journal of Homaopathy. New York.
The New York Medical Times. New Tork.
The New England Medical Gazette, Boston.
The Hahnemannian Monthly, Philadelphia.
The United States Medical Investigator, Chicago.
The Medical Advance. Cincinnati.
Weekly Counsellor,
BihUotJ^que Homceopathique,
VArt Midieal.
Revue Homceopathique Beige.
AUgemeine Horn. Zeitung,
El Criteria Medico.
Papers, Dispensary Beports, and Books for Beview to be sent to
Dr. Pope, 21, Henrietta Street, Cavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D. Dxci
Bbown, 29, Seymour Street, Portman Square, W. Advertisements and
Business Commimications to be sent to Messrs. E. Goxju> A Bott
59, Moorgate Street, E.C.
h^SS!'uS^ HOM(BOPATHY A METHOD. 71S
THE MONTHLY
HOMOEOPATHIC REYIEW-
HOMCEOPATHY A DISTINCTrVE METHOD.
Thirty years ago the virulent bigotry of a profession,
chiefly remarkable for its crass ignorance of the subject
under discussion, decided that homceopathy was not a
system entitled to any consideration, and that its mere
existence would be one of short duration. At the present
time we find men, whose names are a tower of strength,
and who in intellectual capacity are certainly not inferior to
the grave and potent Dr. Sangrados of the past, openly
announcing that they can find no reason why homoeopaths
should not be treated as honourable men, and as men fully
entitled to all the privileges of their profession. There has
been latterly evinced a more kindly spirit of tolerance and
less of a disposition to regard as Pariahs those who stand
openly pledged to the method of Hahnemann.
In those days of bitter ignorance homoeopathy was
regarded as a system fit only to be held up to ridicule, the
milder of its opponents denouncing it as a mistaken system,
whilst others did not scruple to blacken the characters and
asperse the reputations of its practitioners. The march of
time, and possibly also the spread of enlightenment, have
done much to tone down the angularity of professional
No. 12, Yo]. 35. 8 a
714 HOMGSOPATHT A HBTHOD. ^''^SL
Sefi0V,D«e. 1, U81
opposition. The empirical use of many of onr remedies by
allopaths has paved the way for the admission that after all
there really may be some truth in the doctrines of homoeo-
pathy. We can quite understand that men, having read
only those descriptions of homodopathy, hardly deserving
the name of caricatures, written hy ignorant popularity-
hunting mongers, anxious to pose as self-appointed execu-
tioners of what they were pleased to term an expiring
quackeiy, should imbibe such feelings as to effectually
prevent them from giving serious thought or enquiry to the
subject. But the last three or four years have changed all
this ; the cry is no longer quackery, hut we are told by snch
of our medical brethren as address us or the public on the
Buhject, that there is really no difference now-a-days
between us ; that there are no real homoeopaths left ; and
that those who remain only use the name as a means or
fulcrum to lever money out of the purses of a credulous
plutocracy. They point to the fact that many remedies are
used in common by both sections of the profession as a
powerful proof that we, the homodopaths, are n^idly
deserting our colours and trooping over to the enemy. They
utterly ignore the numerous indications in contemporaiy
medical literature and practice, that the doctrine " similia
similibus curantur " is permeating the schools, and mould-
ing the daily practice of many of the younger generation of
practitioners. Or if perchance some notorious instance is
forcibly thrust upon their notice, they spend considerable
time and display ingenuity worthy of a better cause,
in demonstrating " that things are not what they seem/*
and that " similia similibus curantur " is just '' contraria
contrariis curantur " in a new garb suited to the needs of
the age.
In the face of tendencies of this nature it is incumbent
on us, and all who own homoeopathy as a great medical
ISSS^SnTSSiI^ HOMOBOPATHT A BCETHO0. 715
iruthy to lay down dearly and incontrovertibly the fact tbat
homoBopathy is a distinctiYe method.
This is all the more neoessary, because latterly there has
arisen a class of men, leaders in modem therapeutics, who
resemble in many ways that modem outcome or appendage
of the stage, the adapter from the French, save that the
latter always acknowledges the source of his productions.
Their manuals of therapeutics teem with instances of drugs
and methods imblushingly filched without acknowledgment
from homoeopathic sources. *^ First find your medicine in
a homoeopathic author, and then discover it in the medical
^ress," seems to be their motto.
Many persons accuse us now-a-days of taking up a sec-
tarian position. No one, knowing the contumely attaching
to the word homoeopath, would imagine that the word was
adopted from choice as a designation for those who hold our
views. It was forced on us, by that same medical trades
unionism and Boycotting which has hitherto characterised
the old school in its relations with the followers of Hahne-
mann. We retain it now, as a protest against those who,
while willing to adopt our method and to reap all the
personal benefit they can, are still unwilling to publicly
declare their faith in the doctrine of similars. We do not
j>ro-fess homoeopathy, but con-fess it, as a new gospel in
medicine.
The time is fast passing by when it was necessary to
refute the ridiculous ideas prevalent about our practice, but
none the less must we openly and firmly maintain the
essence of homoeopathy. That the recognition of the trath
of Samubl Hahnemann's discovery must come, and that in
the near future, is patent to all who feel the pulse of pro-
fessional opinion. There are still left some old world fogies,
who will not trust themselves in the perilous wake of a
locomotive, preferring a pair of post horses to the Flying
8 JL— 2
716 HOMiEOPATHY A METHOD. ^^SSSr^Sn^MfflT
Datchman ; but their existence matters but little to the
iron horse, and when they are dead and gone, men, if they
ever remember them, will only smile at their folly. So with
those who persist in casting nntmthfdl and nnreasoning^
aspersions in the path of the advancing dawn of progress in
scientific medicine.
Thirty years ago, had Sidnet Binoeb dared to promul-
gate the idea that ipecacuanha in small doses wonld control
Tomiting, he wonld have been regarded either as a Innatic
or a homoBopath.
That homoeopathy is a distinctive method is amply
testified to by the &ct, that the major part of the dis-
coveries in modem medicine owe their inspiration (if
nothing more) to homoBopathic sources. Who that believes
in contraria contrariis curantur would ever have advocated
the use of small, aye infinitesimal doses, of stUpJude of
calcium in suppurating glands of the neck and elsewhere?
What was the law used in the selection of small — ^yes, one
drop doses of belladonna, in nocturnal enuresis of children?
In what allopathic author do we find the use of chamonMla
in teething ? And how is the use of arsenic in minute
doses for the cure of certain skin diseases, to be accounted
for if not on the ground that in similia simUibus curantur
we have a certain and scientific method of drug selection ?
And these, forsooth, are some of the reasons why we are
informed that homoeopathy has ceased to be a distinctive
method. As well might we accuse the French author of
want of originality, because some of his work is recognisable
in England under another name. Turn we then from these
eminent therapeutic adapters to a class of men, rapidly
increasing, who admit homoeopathy to be true, and employ
it, more or less exclusively, as a method of therapeutic
selection, but through some occult train of reasoning are
afraid to confess it openly. We recently heard of one of
E^^fDS^rSJ^ HOMOEOPATHY A METHOD. 717
these ciypto-homoBopaths who considered that he] could do
more good for homoeopathy by this course of procedure
than by admitting openly the truth of its doctrines. It is
just possible that he may be doing more good to his patients
than formerly, and it is probable that he is doing more
good to his own reputation as a therapeutist, but we foil to
discern wherein lies the benefit to the cause of scientific
homoeopathy. Such men, if they ever discoyer anything at
all of benefit, are obliged to lock it up in their own bosoms,
or at best to confide it to some sympathising fellow-
Nicodemus. These men should recognise the fact that by
their practice they are aiding the spread of that new catch,
word, '' that there are no homoeopaths left;, that there is
really no difference between the two methods." If the
public were able to recognise the homoeopathic truth under
the questionable guise in which these crypto-homoeopaths
clothe it, the evil might be lessened, or possibly eyen
changed into a benefit.
The distinctiye term of '^ homoeopath," has been rendered
necessary in the past by prejudice and professional
malignity ; there are other reasons now for its temporary
continuance. We fully recognise that the time is coming
when there will no longer be need of it, but until that time
arriyes we must retain it in order to keep the doctrine of
homoeopathy before the profession.
Not until homoeopathy is recoguided as a distinctiye
method by the profession at large, is discussed in a spirit
ef enquiry in medical societies, represented in our hospitals
and asylums,- and taught in our medical schools, will the
necessity for the terms " homoeopathy," " homoeopathic,"
and " homoeopathist " be remoyed.
As homoeopaths, it is our duty manfully to maintain the
integrity of our doctrines, to show that the line of demar*
■cation between the two doctrines is as sharp as oyer, and
718 HOMCEOPATHY A METHOD. "S^^52f?^
Seriefv, Dee. 1« tBBl.
that allopathy and homoeopathy are not assimilating as
many would hare ns believe. Any attempt at compromise,,
any hashing np of truth nnder another name, must be
rejected, as it will but reopen the bitter strife which has so-
long raged.
We are witnesses of the truth in medicine; a truth,
which, without witnesses, would be burked unscrupulously
or '* adapted " more or less imperfectly, and appropriated
by some imitator of Br. RmGEB.
The same conditions which have brought about the use
of the word homoeopathist have compelled into existence
the London School of Homoeopathy, an institution, by the
way, which at the present time is more flourishing than
ever. We know of one school in London which might
with truth assume the title of the London School of
Empiricism, but until homoeopathy as a distinctiYe method
is taught and recognised by the examining bodies and
schools we must continue to promulgate its practice through
the instrumentality of the school. It is a matter for con-
gratulation that its usefulness is rapidly increasing, together
with the number of those who attend its lectures.
A sectarian title is also forced on all our literature by
the rigorous policy of exclusiveness which has always
characterised the medical press. In this age of freedom
of the press it seems almost ridiculous to think that
for all these years no discussion of homoeopathy has
been permitted ; rarely have letters concerning it been
inserted ; and even advertisements of homoeopathic works
are uniformly excluded by the organs of the most liberal
profession in the world ! But it is true, nevertheless, and
this it is that has forced homoeopaths to start and carry on
societies, monthly and quarterly magazines, and even
publishing societies for the spread of the doctrines of
Hahnsicakn. The distinctive title of homoeopathic cannot-
SS^^iSTS^ PODSITB OF BBSBMBLANCB. 719
be erased £rom all these until liberty, equality, and frater-
nity take the place of ridicnle and exclusion. Signs of
the times are not wanting to show ns that the dawn is
breaking. But let us not be deceived by any show of
compromise, which as a first condition requires the abjuring
of the word homoBopathy. These efforts bear as much
relation to the noonday sun of truth and honesty as a sky-
rocket ; they go up with a roar and a flourish of sparks,
describe a brief arc in the heavens of popularity, come down
like a stick, leaving no trace behind, and making no perma-
nent impression on the Cimmerian darkness of intolerance.
A KEVIEW OF THE CHIEF POINTS OF RESEM-
BLANCE IN THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ACTION AND
THERAPEUTIC USES OF ACONITE, BELLA-
DONNA, OPIUM, HYOSCYAMUS, STRAMONIUM,
GELSEMIUM, CONIUM, CANNABIS IND. AND
SAT., AOARICUS, AND GLONOIN*
By Alfbbd C. Pope, M.D.,
Lecturer on Ifateria Medics at the London School of HomoBOpathy.
During the last few weeks of this session, I have drawn
your attention to the physiological action and therapeutic
uses of aconite, belladonna, opium, hyoscyamvs, stramo-
nium, cannabis indica and sativa, gelsemium, conium,
agaricus, and glonoin, substances the chief sphere of whose
action is on the cerebro-spinal system.
In the instance of aconite and glonoin, the circulation is
directly disturbed before the effects of disordered nerve
fanction become apparent; but in the remainder, either
the brain or spinal cord is, as I have shown you, primarily
affected.
Such being the case, the disturbances created by each
are more or less alike, and consequently all are indicated
as remedies in yery much the same forms of disease. But,
as I have frequenUy insisted, it is nevertheless a matter of
* A Lecture deliTezei at tie London Ecbool of Homoeopatby,
N^Tembor Uth, 1881.
720 POIKTS OF BEBEIIBLAHOE. i5£r7SS!'3uMS
eonsidenible importanoe whidi yoa prescribe in a gi^fea
instance. As we have gone along, I have endeaToored to
point out the circnmstanoes wliich should guide yon in your
selection, in yonr preference for one or other. It is for
cases that yon have ultimately to prescribe, rather than for
diseases. The differences betireen both diseases and medi-
cines are caressed by the symptoms. Hence it is of the
utmost importance that you should have a clear conception
of the different modes in which these drugs show their
analogy to diseases which are nosologically the same.
I have thought that by reviewing the morbid states which
these remedies simulate in their action upon the healthy
body together, I might perhaps make diese differentia
clearer to you, and impress them more emphatically upon
your memories.
In carrying out my purpose, I shall first bring before
you the febrile conditions reflected.
Of the twelve remedies we have to consider, only fonr
can be said to excite anything of a febrile state ; these are
aconitey belladonna, hyoscyamus and gelsemium, while of
these aconite alone produces a thoroughly well marked
sthenic pyrexia. That to which belladonna gives rise is
much less active, and more purely sympathetic than is that
of aconite ; while the febrile excitement of hyoscyamuXy
though Uke that of belladonna^ is less pronounced — so
much less so, indeed, that the phenomena marking it are
almost too transient to allow of our speaking of them as
fever. One of the chief distinctions between a belladonna
poisoning and one produced hy hyoscyamus, is that with the
former febrile excitement is fairly developed, with the latter
it is but very slightly expressed. The fever produced by
gelsemium, again, is not sthenic and continuous, neither
is it truly sympathetic, but distinctly remittent in its type.
To carry our distinctions a step further — ^the fever of
aconite is well marked in all its stages. The chill and
rigors are unmistakable, the skin is hot and dry, the thirst
is great, pulse quick and hard, and the process terminates
in perspiration. Another marked feature in the action of
aconite here, is the great restlessness it gives rise to, the
tossing to and £ro, and at the same time the great anxiety
and impatience which are present. Moreover, evidence is
generally found in a slight degree of the inflammatory
process having been set agoing in some ^rgan or tissue.
lt!^^STS^ JOINTS OF BBBBMBLANCB. 721
Compare this state with the fever of belladonnay and we
find that in the latter, the chill and rigors, instead of being
-severe, are quite the reverse ; they are comparatively slight
but the heat is very great ; thirst is much less marked than
in the fever of aconite^ and the sweating which follows is
but slight. Neither do we find the restlessness, impatience,
and anxiety which we meet with in cases where aconite is
useful. The nervous excitement is altogether of a different
type, and tends rather to delirium.
In hyoscyamns, again, the slight fever which it produces
is chiefly marked by the profuse sweating which succeeds a
iaiat chill, followed by a slight increase of heat.
Gelsemium, as I have already observed, differs entirely
from the previous three drugs in the kind of fever it pro-
duces— this being essentially one of a remittent character.
The initiatory chill is considerable, and is followed by heat,
or rather flushes of heat, with prickings in the skin, and
this again by profuse perspiration with great prostration.
We have, then, in these drugs, illustrations of fully
^developed sthenic fever, such as ushers in most inflamma-
tions of internal organs ; of the sympathetic fever accom-
panying some congestions — ^well defined in its character ;
of a faintly marked fever of a similar type, and of one of
the many forms assumed by intermittent or remittent fever.
We come now to the direct influence they have upon
sleep. This influence is especially marked in aconite,
helladonna, opium, and hyoscyamus.
By aconite, the sleep is disturbed, light, and very rest-
less. Dreams abound of an anxious, worrying, and puzzling
character. It resembles the sleep of a person who retires
to bed somewhat feverish and excited. Its chief character-
istics are the lightness of the slumber, and the restlessness
of the patient. Belladonnay on the other hand, produces a
condition in which, while sleep occurs, it is frequently
interrupted by sudden startings, the patient wakes with a
scream, and in a fright. There is not actual insomnia at
first, but a disturbed, excited sleep, such as is often seen in
teething children when cerebral congestion is threatening.
In opium, again, we find as the primary effect a condition
of well marked insomnia, the symptoms of which suggest
it in cases where the patient feels a desire to sleep, but
cannot get any ; he is not wide awake, without any incli-
nation for sleep, but he is sleepy without being able to
•obtain any ; getting off to sleep siter a time, he is in a few
722 POINTS OP BR8EMBLAN0E. ""^^fSSTiS!
miBntes awoke by the least noise. Short naps aie aha
crowded by dreams of a more or less horrible and alarming
character. When, on the other hand, the fall effects of
opium haye oocoired as shown, when complete congestion
has been set up, the sleep is hesTy and snoring, the patient
cannot be aroused saye with difficulty. The dreams are yet
more ri^id and firightful. Such a sleep as this is genenJly
followed by seyere headache of a pressive character.
Hyoscyamus gives rise to a kind of sleep very much like
that of opium, and one, in some points, resembling that of
belladonna. The sleep here is obtained fairly readily, but
it is restless and frequently interrupted by dreams of a-
frightening character, causing the person to start. It is a
restless, excited sleep. Both opium and hyoscyamus are
often indicated in the restless, partial insomnia, due to
excessiye mental activity ; the decision as to which is to be
administered will depend upon ccmcomitant symptoms.
Cat. par. opium will be more suitable in persons of a
somewhat lethargic habit, while hyoscyamus is indicated
where the aptitude for excitement is greater. Lastly,
opium is required where the tendency to sleep heavily is
iiie distinguishing feature of the case — ^where heaviness
and oppression are conspicuous.
Headache is a prominent symptom of the pathogenesia
of all the drags I have brought before you. In all the
pain is dependent on the existence of more or less cerebral
blood stasis. It varies in degree of intensity, and manifests
itself differently in each.
The headache of aconite is marked by a confosed and
muddled sensation, with heat and throbbing at the temples.
A pressive and contractive-like pain in the upper part of
the forehead, increased by light and noise, is characteristic
of aconite. It is, in short, the sort of headache which
ushers in a sharp febrile attack of a sthenic type. There is
little or no delirium with it, but there is a distinct, though
not severely, increased blood pressure in the brain.
With belladonna, on the other hand, the presence of
congestion is very decided. There is a sense of pressure
over the entire head, though it is mostly felt in tiie fore-
head, and involves the eyeballs, which are heavy and
painfril. Further, dizziness and vertigo are especially
prominent, so much so as to lead to staggering. Eveiy
movement increases the pain ; anything but a dull light is
unendurable. The closeness of a room increases it, while
SSSSf §STS^ POINTS OP BBSBMBLANCB. 728
fresh air gives relief. It is often^ too, attended by a
flnshedy swollen face — a very characteristic symptom of
beliadanna^ When severe, this headache will be followed
by a mild form of deliriam ; the patient talks irrationally,
tries to get out of bed, when it is necessary for him to
remain there. But whether with or without delirium, the
belladonna headache is commonly followed by confusion.
Belladonna is thus par excellence the remedy in con-
gestive headache of the type ordinarily met with, where
tiie circulation is slightly but not seriously increased. The
headache produced by hyo9cyamu$ is somewhat like that of
heUadonna, but yet differs from it in a few particulars.
The pain, chiefly felt in the forehead, is pressive and
stupefying, is felt also in the eyeballs, and renders vision
indistinct. There is a great deal of vertigo and confusion,
and some faintness, wiUi a feeling as if a tight band were
around the head. But there is not much heat, little or no
flushing of the face — which, on the contrary, is usually
pale— and little or no excitement of the circulation.
Following the headache is delirium, characterised by
obscene acts and words, and in some instances by a greater
degree of violence than that which marks the action of
belladonna^
Cannabis indica gives rise to a severe headache, chiefly
in the forehead and occiput. The pain in the latter situa-
tion is of a stunning character, and gives the sensation of
something rushing from the occiput to the forehead. At
the same time, there is considerable vertigo, and sense of
swimming, aggravated by motion. This, too, is a headache,
followed by delirium, with visions at first gorgeous, and
then horrible in the extreme.
The headache of stramonium is expressed by a sense of
fulness, as though the head would burst, associated with a
stupid dull feeling, and producing a perfect indifference to
anything and every one around. This form of headache
often terminates in a weakness of memory. The headache
which precedes the delirium so characteristic of stramonium
is more distinctly of the congestive type, and marked by
giddiness, flushed face, a brilliant eye, incoherence, and
unconnected chattering.
In opium^ we have a headache of the intensely congestive
order. There is a feeling as of a rush of blood to the head,
with vertigo, a sense of weight and pressure referred to the
724 POINTS OP BESEMBLANCE. '"hSS^t^dS'iI^
forehead and occipat. With it we have drowsiness, inca-
pacity for grasping even common-place ideas, a total loss of
interest in all that is going on. The headache, here does
not tend to delirimny but rather to coma. It is essentially
the headache of the apoplectic subject.
Ohnoin also produces a headache of the purely con-
gestive order. The seats of pain are pre-eminenUy the
vertex and the occipnt, where the pain is throbbing and
oppressive, and extends thence to the temples and forehead.
There is great heat in the head, a flushed face, with palpi-
tation of the heart, and a sick, faint feeling is referred to
the stomach. This headache is remarkably increased by
movement — shaking of the head, or jarring of the foot, or
noise, f^gravate it greatly — but it is not associated with
•any delirium.
The headache of geUemium is in some respects like that
of glonoin, but the throbbing is much less intense. The
forehead and occiput are the parts chiefly affected by the
pain. In the occiput the pain is throbbing, dull, and
heavy, and there is at the same time a sense of numbness.
It is increased by movement, is worse on stooping and
towards evening. There is here, as when hyoscyamus has
been taken, a sense of tightness around the head, vertigo,
with a tendency to stagger. The frontal headache is
associated with indistinctness of vision, and a loss of power
in the orbicular muscles. The pain here is pressive,
stitch-like, and shooting, not throbbing as in the occiput.
The headache of geUemium is not associated with either
loss of consciousness or delirium. It is indeed more of
the neuralgic type of headache than one of simple con-
gestion, like that of beUadanna or opium.
Agaricus gives rise to a headache of the neuralgic type.
Together with a sense of confusion and vertigo, we have
pains in the head, as if cold needles were pricking the part
affected, pain like the boring of a nail in the right side of
the head, described as boring, tearing, cramp-like, and
sometimes throbbing. As showing still more clearly the
neuralgic character of the headache, these pains are con-
fined to certain spots in the head ; they do not radiate over
the whole of it, but are met vdth in one person in one
part, in another in another. Moreover, this headache
is associated with considerable exhaustion, and also with
twitching pains in the muscles of the extremities.
^^fSSTSw!*' POINTS OF BESBMBLANCE. 725
Conium also prodaceB a headache of a nervons character.
The pain is described as pressive, squeezing, and is felt
chiefly at the top of the head and in the forehead. It is
most marked on the right side of the forehead, and when,
as sometimes occurs, it occupies the occiput, it is mostly
to the left.
How markedly the headaches of these seyeral drugs
differ from one another will now be apparent. To sum-
marise our analysis still further, I might add, that aconite
represents the febrile type of headache, hyoscyamua that of
a certain degree of congestion, helladonna^ glonoin, can-
nobis, and stramonium, represent a more intense degree of
the same condition ; while in opium you have it produced
to an extent culminating in coma. In some, the pain is
felt throughout the head ; in others, it is most marked in
one portion of it. Again, in gelsemiwn, agaricus, and
conium, you hare drugs giving rise to a headache such as
is commonly termed neuralgic.
In practice, these differences are of the utmost im-
portance; not only must the pathological condition be
recognised, but the manner in which it displays itself, and
the general condition of health with which it is associated.
From headache we pass to consider the variations in the
character of the delirium produced by some of these drugs.
Those in which delirium occurs are belladonna, opium,
hyoseyamus, cannabis indica, stramonium, and agaricus.
Under the influence of belladonna the patient is completely
lost to all that is going on around him ; he takes not the
slightest notice of anyone or anything, unless addressed in
a loud tone of voice, and then he stares vacantly at the
person so speaking to him, and relapses into his state of
apathy. During this state he is busy and restless ; is
either apparently engaged in pursuing his ordinary avoca-
tion or is grasping at imaginary objects ; he has very vivid
hallucinations, seeing cockroaches and the like. Again,
it is of the sort called '* meddlesome;" the patient picks
at and handles imaginary objects in the air, muttering or
smiling or chattering the while.
When hyoseyamus has given rise to delirium, it is one
which, in its early stages, is controlled with comparative
ease. There is a good deal of muttering and lack of compre-
hension ; to all questions he answers simply '* yes " or
''no." There is not the absolute indifference or uncon-
sciousness of belladonna ; replies are made, but they are
726 POINTB OF BS8EMBLANCE.
simply ''yes" or ''no.*' He clntches with bis hands
at imsginsry objecte, picks at the bedclothes. Again, his
movements are sadden, he strikes ont at his attendants, or
tries to Ute ; all is done rapidly, as if from some sadden
impolse. He becomes excited, and talks incessantly on a
Tariety of absard topics, sings, laughs, and freqaentfy does
or says obscene things.
In opium poisoning, the deliriam is marked by incessant
chattering^ great irritability and mach excitement, whidi
is presently succeeded by deep melancholy. Daring the
irarioos phases of this deliriam, the person exhibits great
fear ; he sees, or rather thinks he sees, ghosts, frig^tfol
Miiwiala and other alarming objects; all too real to his
frenzied brain, and hence his temHrs, his restlessness, and,
80 fur, his sleeplessness.
In the deliriam of ttramonium, we see the sense of
terror very great indeed. The hallacinations are alarming,
«nd haye a reaUty about them, impelling the patient to fi^t
his way out of the reach of his imaginary enemies, thus
leading to the display of great riolence. It is a delirium
that is sudden in its onset and marked by shouting,
screaming, gesticulating, laughing, and immoderate and
incoherent talking. In the milder form of the stramonium
delirium » the hallucinations are like those of opium — in-
sects crawling, and so forth. The excitement is, however,
greater and more violent than that which marks the
opium delirium.
Cannabis indica produces a delirium, of which im-
mensity is as good a definition as any other. Minutes
appear hours, yards miles. Eveiyihing surrounding the
patient is grand. A hovel is a palace, a beggar a
millionaire. On the other hand, spectres of the most
horrible and revolting appearance are among the hallucina-
tions. Moreover, in the cannabis delirium, an idea
possesses the mind that the person has a double existence
— one is being pursued, while the other is looking on.
In short, the delirium of cannabis seems more like that of
some kinds of mania, than the form of mental disturbance
met vdth in acute disease. But there are cases of delirium
tremens in which the kind of delirium is very like that of
cannabis. As you will have observed, it is totally different
to either of the other forms to which I have relerred.
In agaricuSf the delusions which mark its delirium
represent grandeur and importancci in the first instance.
itl^SSTS^ POINTS OP EESBBiBLANOB. 727
The patient is cheerful and good hnmonred, and chatters
.« good deal of incoherent nonsense. Thronghoat the
mascles of the extremities tremhle. Presently excitement
increases, and reaches its highest point in screaming and
raving — ^to be shortly followed by confusion, prostration,
and stupefaction.
We observe, then, such leading points of difference as
the following between these several drugs in the kind of
delirium they excite. In that of beUadotma, the mani-
festations of restless excitement are passed amid a state of
perfect unconsciousness, and attended by some excitement
•of the circulation. That of hyoBcyamua is accompanied by
little or no fever, is noisy, the violence of the patient is
manifested suddenly. Thiftt of opium is characterised by
irritability and fear. That of ttramonium by intense terror
^and violence and shouting. That of cannabis by visions of
^grandeur on the one hand, and horror on the other, but
without violence. That of agarievs by cheerfulness at first,
incoherence in speech, then excitement, and finally stupe-
fjEtction.
The consideration of the delirium produced by these
medicines is separated by but a narrow line firom the
condition of mania. It is, however, only in three of the
half-dozen I have just referred to that mania can safely be
said to be one of the established effects. These are beUor
-donna^ hyoscyamus and stramcmium.
The belladonna maniac has a wild, fierce look, the eyes
sparkling, and the pupils are vddely dilated ; the face is
red and swollen, the pulse full, hard and quick. He is
^quarrelsome in his violence, and yet exhibits some con-
siderable sense of fear. He makes sundry efforts to bite
iund strike those around him. He is sleepless ; and also
incoherent in his talk. The circulation is always excited,
it will be remembered, in cases to which belladonna is
liomoBopathic.
Strwmonium produces a condition resembling mania in
ihe passionate violence it excites. The pupils are fixed
and dilated, the person starts with great suddenness as if
in terror, shrieks and screams and makes rapid and
-energetic movements in efforts to carry out a destructive
purpose.
Hyoscyamus produces a kind of mania of a totally
different type. With no small degree of violence, in the
728 POINTS OP EESEBCBLANCB. ^^^^^^^^
manifestation of which considerable canning is exhibited,
the patient nms about dancing and grasping at objects real
and imaginary. He is quarrelsome, and attempts to bite
and scratch. His conversation, incoherent as it often is,
is obscene. There is little or no excitement of the circu-
lation, the face is pale, the pulse rapid but small, the
pupils dilated.
The essential points to be noted here, as compared with
belladonna and stramonium^ are the nenre exhaustion
rather than exaltation, which is typified, associated with &
comparatiyely feeble condition of the circulation.
I have, in going through these medicines, pointed out
the similarity of the convulsive movements some of them
excite to those which characterise a fit of epilepsy or an
attack of tetanus or chorea.
Belladonna, indeed, gives rise to conditions simulating
all three disorders in certain instances. During the un-
consciousness to which it gives rise, convulsions occur
resembling those of epilepsy. The Umbs contract spas-
modically, and the face is swollen and somewhat livid.
Then, without unconsciousness, we find among the
phenomena of heUadimna poisonous spasmodic twitchings
of the muscles of the face, and extremities, with headache
and confusion — ^herein resembling chorea.
But beyond the choric spasm of epilepsy and chorea,
belladonna produces a spasm like that of trismus ; the jaws
are rigidly closed, the face is red and swollen, the muscles
of the spine and the extremities are rigid.
Hyoscyamus produces a convulsive action somewhat like
that observed in epilepsy and also in chorea. The muscular
spasms are scarcely so violent as are those produced by
belladonna. The muscles of the face twitch and jerk ; there
is a good deal of frothing of the mouth ; and the spasms
are often of a somewhat tonic character. The hands, for
example, grasp anything that may happen to be in them
with great force and rigidity for some time. The distinction
to be observed in deciding between belladonna and hyosey-
amus as medicines to be given in convulsions— and both
have their place in the treatment of acute epilepsy or
eclampsia^— are to be found in the force of the convulsion,
which is greater in belladonna than in hyoscyamus, in the
excitement of the circulation, which is also greater in
beliadonna, and in the character of the delirium, the
^^jSThtS^'' POINTS OP RBSBMBLANCB. 729
difference of which I have just pointed out. In chorea,
hyoscyamus is less often indicated than is heUadonna.
The convnlsions which mark a case of stramonium
poisoning resemhie those of one of chorea more than
either of the drags nnder consideration, except agaricus^
with which I will compare it.
The chorea-like spasm of siramonium comes on suddenly,
jnst as does the delirium it excites. The jerking move-
ments are rapid and frequent, and proceed from muscles in
all parts of the body — fjace, mouth, back, shoulders, and.
extremities; the tongue is also affected, and suddenly
jerked forward now and again ; curious noises are fre-
quently made.
In agarieuSf these t¥dtchings are mostly remarked in
the face and extremities ; the cerebral symptoms noted as
occurring in ttramonivm are not present, but simply
twitching and jerking of different groups of muscles, now
in one limb, now in another. But at the same time there
is considerable nervous exhaustion. In siramonium casea
there is excitement, in those indicating aga/ricvs nervous
depression.
Stramonium is usefrd almost exclusively in recent cases*
Agaricus in such as are more or less free from cerebral
excitement.
It must be remembered that aconite produces a tetanic-
like state, to a limited extent at any rate, a degree indi--
cating its utility in tetanic states which have been excited
by cold.
The cerebral apoplectic state is the result of poisoning by
heUadonna^ opium^ hyoscyamus, and gUmoin.
The symptoms of apoplexy which call for opium may be
summarised as follows : — the patient is comatose and
snoring, his face swollen and bloated-looking, red or livid
in colour, the pupils are contracted and insensible to light,
the breathing is stertorous, the surface cold, and the
pulse full, and heavy, and slow, or quick, small and feeble.
In proportion as the coma is great, the pupils contracted
and insensible, is opium indicated here.
In belladonna poisoning there is coma, but scarcely sO'
heavy and complete as in that from opium* The eyes are
closed, the pupils dilated, the jaws fixed, the hands and
feet cold, the pulse hardly perceptible, the respiration
heavy and stertorous. So &r the distinction to be drawn
between the indieationB for opium and beUadonna appear
No. 19, Yd. 85. Ba
780 POINTS OF EE8BMBLANCB. *%SL^te??S"
Btriew, Bw. 1» ISBI.
&int, and are to be gathered rather from other symptoiiui
than those which directly refer to the brain. The patient
in whom belladonna is the best remedy is a more excitable
person. He is nsaally yonnger. . The attack is the reanlt
of a more acnte congestion of the cerebral yessels. In
cases calling for opium the stupor is more complete.
There haye been premonitory symptoms of the approach of
the attack for a greater length of time, and the patient is of
a more plethoric habit.
In cases where yon will be called npon to prescribe
hyoBcyamus, the apoplectic symptoms are those which are
dne rather to the complete rupture of new fibres that haye
for some time been gradually disintegrating. The patient
is unconscious ; the pulse is small, thready, and rapid ;
the respiration is stertorous and difficult, but this rather
from spasm of the pectoral muscle than from cerebral blood
stasis; the body is cold, and there is a good deal of
muscular rigidity ; the pupils are dilated, and their con-
junctiya injected.
The apoplexy in which glonoin should be giyen is one
where the blood stasis, which has occurred in the brain, is
contingent upon an hypertrophied heart. The suddenness
of the attack and the yiolence of the heart's action will
direct you to the choice of this medicine in preference to
others.
Belladonna and opium are indicated in apoplexies depen-
dent upon direct cerebral congestion ; hyoscyamus when
the apoplectic condition is traceable to ramoUissement
cerebri ; and glonoin when an hypertrophied heart is the
main source of the apoplectic condition.
In paralysis, the result whether of a distinct apoplexy
or that which follows a ramoUiesement cerebri^ there does
not seem to be much scope for medicinal action in promot-
ing recoyery of power. Neyertheless, the irritation in the
injured part, which, if unsubdued, tends to keep up the
paresis, may unquestionably be held in check by appropriate
remedies. Of such we haye considered two or three.
Belladonna is the most useful when headaches of the
type I haye already described are present, t<^ether with a
weight and sense of inactiyity in the limbs. It is, howeyer,
less in the paralysis of cerebral than that of spinal origin
in which this medicine is indicated, and in which it has
been found most useful. Thus, in the paralysis of loco-
motor ataxy, when the power of will oyer the muscles is
BSS^^HTrSa^ POINTS OF RESEMBLANCE, 731
•dimiziished, when the moyements, such as they are, are
irregular, staggering, jerkj, when muscular co-ordination
is lacking, and when at the same time you have such
symptoms as incontinence of urine, injected conjunctivad,
pupils varying in size, and the like — ^here beUadonna will
often do service.
Oelsemium is, in some points, not unlike beUadonna in
its relation to paralysis. It is, however, in spinal paralysis
alone that we have any reason for using it. It gives rise
to no loss of consciousness, no true cerebral apoplexy; but
the spinal cord is, by it, undoubtedly congested. Complete
motor paralysis is a well ascertained result of gelsemium.
Given, then, a case of motor paralysis of the limbs, or of
the sphincter vesic®, or both, with burning in the spinal
column and tingling in the extremities, and you will find
gehemium of more use than beUadonna.
The paralysis in which conium effects some good, per-
chance not much, yet more than any other drug, is that
where softening is the cause of paralysis in elderly people.
Where, with loss of motor power, you find an enfeebled
memory, a weakened intellect, you may, with conium, do
something to relieve and tone the nerve debility which has
been engendered by long continued wear and tear.
There is one form of paralysis, and that a purely local
one, which I ought not to omit the mention of. I refer to
facial paralysis — that induced by cold — in which aconite is
an admirable remedy. A paralysis which can be secured
by driving in a low state of health in an open carriage on a
•cold, snowy night, when the temperature of the atmosphere
is low, and its degree of moisture high. Here, aconite will
restore nerve power more surely than all the brandy and
water that was ever mixed.
Of the medicines I have brought before you, four have a
direct influence on certain cases of neuralgia. Each is, as
you will see, indicated in cases markedly differing the one
from the other.
The neuralgic pain produced by aconite is shooting and
darting in character, is felt especially in the right supra-
orbital ridge, extends upwards over the scalp, and laterally
to the temple and cheek of that side, passing into one or two
teeth. At the same time the cheeks are hot, the pain is
felt most severely during the evening, and is increased by
any pressure exerted on the part. It is a neuralgia which
is in all particulars acute, generally the result of a chill,
8b—S
732 POINTS OP BESBMBLAHOB. ^^S^fSTi^Mffl!^
and ushered in with rigors and some excitement of th»
eiroolation.
Belladonna is homoeopathic to a nenralgia which is
olearly dependent on congestion or hyperaBmia. The face
is bnmingy swollen and flushed. The pain is hot and
darting in character, and takes the direction of the fibres
of the fifth pair. Unlike that form cured by a^onite^ it is
not necessarily an acute disease : on the contrary, chronic
neuralgias of the face, associated with well marked hyper-
smia, have not unfrequently been permanently relieved by
it. The belladonna neuralgia, too, is generally remarked
as being worse at night, and occurs most frequently in
plethoric persons.
Gelsemium is indicated in neuralgia affecting nerves in
divers parts of the body. The pains are sudden, acute
and darting. They resemble electric shocks, and after
passing off, leave a line of tenderness in their track. It
is a neuralgia totally different from that to which aconiU
and belladonna are homodopathic, and resembles that which
sometimes forms one of the reUquia of a depressing fever
or other acute illness.
The neuralgia to which agaricus is homoBopathic differs
from either of the three I have noticed. There is a
good deal of nerve erethism. The pains are like the effiacts
of fine splinters driven into the muscles and cheeks. They
do not appear along the whole track of the nerves, but, as
it were, in individual points of it. They are sudden and
sharp — are felt sometimes on one and sometimes on the
other side of the face, which is hot and puffy ; and very
generally there is, in addition to the pain, a constant jerking
irritation and twitching in the muscles.
The pathogenetic actions of the medicine I have been
dwelling on resemble one another in several other morbid
states, but I have time only to refer to two.
The cough produced by. belladonna is mostly dry, the
expectoration being scanty. It is paroxysmal, provoked by
tickling in the laiTux ; comes on early in the evening, or
when lying down in bed, the larynx feels sore and the chest
somewhat oppressed. In plethoric persons it is often indi-
cated in congestion of the lungs, more especiaUy when head
symptoms are present, and there are much heat and burning
in the face.
Hyo8cywnm8 gives rise to an irritable nervous cough,
with a good deal of mucus in the throat, which comes oa
iS^STuSS?** POINTS OF RESEMBLANCE. 783
after a person has fallen asleep^ and awakes him. It is
relieved on sitting up, but recurs when lying down again.
There is little or no expectoration attending it, neither is
there any reason to suppose that there is any hypersBmic
condition of the mucous membrane of the larynx or trachea
as its cause — ^bui that it is the result of simple nerve irri-
tation.
The cough of conivm is hard» dry, and tickling, and is
felt especially when lying down at night.
The cough produced and relieved by aga/ricuB is much
more irritating than that caused by either of the drugs I
have noticed. There is a sense of constriction in the
larynx, which gives rise to a series of irritating paroxysms
of cough, which are easily suppressed by an effort of the
will, but are otherwise incessant. It is a spasmodic cough,
often violent during the day, but much worse at night, and
frequently wakes the person out of sleep, producing at the
same time a great deal of breathlessness.
In conclusion, I will briefly compare the action of helh,-
donna, opium, hyoscyamnSy and cannabis on the bladder.
Belladonna gives rise to a certain degree of strangury,
with some retention, passing ultimately to incontinence.
Opium produces complete retention of urine, proceeding
from paralysis of the fundus.
Hyoscyamus excites great irritation at the neck of the
bladder, causing frequent micturition, especially at night,
as often happens in an irritated and enlarged prostate.
Cannabis sets up a well marked inflammatory state of
the neck of the bladder, and of the urethral mucous mem-
brane, as indicated by a constant desire to pass water and
the passage of urine in small quantities with considerable
pain.
You will find, gentlemen, that, by studying drug
symptomatology in this comparative manner — by taking,
as I have endeavoured to do this afternoon, several drugs
having a more or less analogous action, and noting the
points in which their action, similar as it en gros, differs
en detail — ^you will greatly add to the facility and efficiency
with which you can select your remedies in the treatment
x>f disease.
21, Henrietta Street,
Cavendish Square.
784 CLIWCAL OASES. "1S^"2??lS^
B«Ti0V, Ses. 1, 18BU
CLINICAL CASES, WITH REMAKES.*
By S. H. Blake, M.B.G.S., Liyerpool.
Case n.
lUvatrating the Toothache of Sanffuinaria,
This is a medicine which may prove of considerable
value to the dentist, for, judging from the temperament-
and constitutional state of a patient in whom I have of late
observed a toothache produced after taking the sangmnariay.
this variety of dental pain would appear to be one of rather
frequent occurrence among people with decayed teeth. I
have since employed the drug in toothache with some
success. I had occasion to select ecmguinaria for the
treatment of a lady aged 68, of sanguine temperament and
disposed to rheumatic gout, evidenced by the enlarged
joints of the fingers and by tendency to a painful swelling
of the face and side of the head (left side), and a left-sided
facial palsy, attributed chiefly to a rheumatic affection of
the head. But there had been also a history of true gont^
in her parentage. Unfortunately her husband was also
gouty, and one of her daughters presents plainly the signs
of the same diathesis. The articular enlargements of the
fingers do not look so much like the deposits of typical
gout, but correspond to the appearance of chronic rheumatic
arthritis. Besides a painful red swelling of the left side of
the face and head, lasting for about three weeks, there was
continuous, dull and deep seated pain in the region of the
liver, about the lower ribs in the right axillary line, together
with indigestion and constipation. These symptoms
vanished as if by magic after one dose of sanguinariu. She
was ordered 5-drop doses of the pure tincture three times a
day, but for some reason of her own she only took one dose.
After that there was no liver trouble and no constipation,
but the medicine developed a troublesome toothache.
The symptoms shall be related as much in her own
words as possible. Thus : on the 17th of December she
took five drops of the sanguinaria, and between this time
and the 26th there came a very bad toothache, although
there was great improvement in other respects, as before
stated. On the 26th it was again ordered to be continued
* Being part of a series of oases, 'the record of which gained for
3fr. Blake the •» Epps " prize of £10. '
S^SSTSw!^ CLINICAL CASES. 735
as at first directed, 6 drops three times a day ; bat the
toothache increased and continued so badly under this
medicine that she sent a messenger on the 28th to ask for
its veto, when the dose was remitted to one-tenth part of
the former dose, t¥dce daily. The following day I obtained
a report as to the kind of toothache experienced, and she
reported that '' This weary toothache began about a week
after the new medicine had been taken. I bore it," says
she, ^' as meekly as I could until yesterday, but as I can
scarcely eat and it keeps me awake at night, I thought it
best to make a stir. I have taken none to-day, so perhaps
it may die away pretty soon. As regards iJbie previous
state of the teeth, there is not a sound tooth in the head."
This unsoundness of the teeth is another contingency, but
not a useless one, for it is most conyenient to be able to
cure the pain in the carious teeth of patients. ** I wish,"
she says, '' that what teeth are left were all out of my
head. What with stumps and odds and ends" — ^they ail
amount in number to about a dozen. The pain, however,
began in a tooth which had never ached before, although it
has a ** wee hole in it." This is in the right upper jaw,
but " the pain dug down into every old root I have, and
made me remember where they were. My gums throb
and nerves shoot, and, altogether, I am in a bad way.
When I open my mouth to eat, it gets very bad ; then,
after a time, the great pain dies down, and leaves a teasing,
gnawing pain. However, all the time, I quite forgive you
and your medicine too, for it certainly did me a great deal
of good. My tongue is cleaner, and I have had no trouble
with liver, stomach, or bowels since (constipation). The
sound of the distant sea, though, is still in my ears, more
or less, and is worse when lying down. No music or singing
in the head now. Swelling of head and face gone down."
She asked for mere. soL, as she had on a former occasion
found that good for toothache, which I agreed to as an
antidote. 8rd attenuation.
After an interval of freedom, she (on January 10th)
again writes : " I had quite lost toothache, so began san-
guinaria let down to one-tenth of the former dose. After
three days toothache came back much worse. It is now
in one tooth. The nerve is exposed, but hole so small
I could not put anything into it to stop the pain. Merc.
eoL 8 seems no good — the tooth is so sensitive, ,even
breathing makes it ache. I feel so done up from so many
786 CLINICAL CASKS* bS^^SS^uI^
honrs bad pain and loss of sleep. Can yon Bend a cnre ?
Jjast time the pain only lasted some minntes and then flew
all ronnd and died down, now it is in one tooth and con-
stant."
I sent her rkus. U a. for an antidote, which proved soon
effectual.
Here are these symptoms of safiguinaria abbreviated : —
Pahi beginning in the right upper jaw in the most recently
diseased carious tooth ; extending thence to the roots of all
the other carious teeth ; a digging pain with throbbing of
the gums and shooting in the dental nerves ; the pain
worse on opening the mouth to eat ; also keeping her
awake at night; and, after cessation of the more severe pain,
leaving behind a teasing and gnawing pain, the gum swollen
and sore.
What were the hepatic and other symptoms so promptly
removed by this medicine ? These had been very obstinate
for some time, failing to give way to hryoniay mercurius,
and even lycopodium. The symptoms were pain and sore-
ness in the hepatic region, resistiug even strong mustard
applications employed for its relief. Pain in the right
hepatic region, about the lower three ribs, and extending
rather backwards than forwards in the site of the liver.
Pain rather deep in position. Is subject also to a grip-
like pain around the head on a line with the pinna of the
ear. Head worse on hurrying or from any anxiety. Head
sensitive to noise — always the rush of the sea in the
ears. Bowels act only every two days, with diffi-
culty. Pain goes down the right arm after using it«
Painful swelling of left cheek, with redness, complicates a
previously existing palsy of the portio-dura. The liver
(hepatic region) feels swollen and especially so after food.
Her own voice sounds so that she cannot tell how loud it
is — ^it seems to come from a distance. It was from this
symptom, together with the liver symptoms, that sanffuin-
aria was first prescribed. See Cypher Repertory. Some time
previously there had also been singing noises and occipital
pain, with tight feeling in ears as if stuffed. The food all
*' seems to go into wind." Bitter taste, tongue white.
** Quinine never agreed with her," she says.
Afber noticing the dental symptoms, I turned with some
interest to the Materia Mediea, and to confirm my con-
viction found that they were pathogenetic; that san-
guinaria has toothache in hollow teeth when touched bj
SnggrDSTSei!^ CLIHIOAL 0A8ES, 787
the food ; also a spongy, bleeding, and fungoid condition
of the gams* My patient had also a slight jaundiced state
of conjunctiYa and skin, and this symptom, again, is in the
pathogenesis of sanguinaria. The pathological state of the
teeth would seem to indicate inflammatory action, extending
not only to the gums and roots of the teeth, but eyen to
the dentine, pulp cavity, and nerve ends of the teeth. The
pulp, which before, even though more or less exposed, had
been in a quiescent state, is rendered highly irritable and
sensitive by the action of $anguifuiria, and pain is ex-
perienced by the least touch, by mastication, and is
increased, too, at night; and this hyper-sensitiveness
extends not only throughout the pulp cavity, but the
dentine and alveoli appear also to participate largely in
the disorder. In gouty patients, perhaps also in the
gouty-rheumatic, this drug, therefore, should be exceed-
ingly useful for toothache occurring in hollow or carious
teeth, under the conditional symptoms before named.
Constipation and flatulence are well-marked points for
sangvinaria, and the urine, high-coloured, deposits
copiously of lithates. The mental state, again, brings us
near to that of gout; there is the angry irritability, or
moroseness ; cannot bear a person to walk in the room ; and
this dislike to activity, noise, and desire to be perfectly
quiet, is just characteristic of $anguinaria. There is also
noted in Hering's work, rheumatic headache running up
the posterior auricular region ; also headache occipital,
spreading upwards and settliQg over right eye; painful
sensitiveness to sounds, burning of ears, cheeks red,
singing in the ears, and vertigo ; so very many of san-
guinaria conditions are associated with or dependent on
flatus. Its action on the chest, besides the well-known
use of it for pneumonia, enables it to control bronchitis,
especially in persons suffering from inactive liver, and
bowels, and flatus, and in persons with the lithic acid
diathesis. In fi(Vich persons where the bronchitis extends
from the throat pit down to the minute ramifications of the
bronchia, this is a valuable medicine. If the sputa be
yellow, more or less difficult to expectorate, and not
naturally inclined to diminish, it aids the expectoration,
and at the same time diminishes the tendency to its re-
formation. I have not observed it do much for relaxation
of the uvula, but it diminishes the spasmodic asthmatic
respiration of the bronchial tubes, which often attends the
738 CLINICAL CASES. "^R^^n?«S^
Biewkm, Dee. 1, 16B1.
ftboye-desciibed form of bronchitiB. It suits wdl after
tartar emetic has exhaasted its good effects, and it makes
the night eongh less troublesome if this be a well-marked
symptom, and especially if increased by flatulence of the
stonuush.
Comparison of Medicines.
Sangninaria^ as I haye said, corresponds to the oonsti*
tutional state, and to the local symptoms of the first case
cited. There are also a few other medicines allied to gout
and its inflammatory complications. Benzoic acid, for
instance, is so allied, and has the inflammatory facial
symptoms, but its pains in the hepatic region are mostly
stitching pains, and its main efiects are directed more
directly upon the urinary organs than the liyer ; therefore,
for the giyen phase of my patient's illness, I prefer the
sanguina/ria. Howeyer, this benzoic add is a great medi-
cine for gouty conditions. Again, actaa and macrotin
would fail here in the local symptoms and signs, althongh
a^tiea has the mental ones. JSryonia corresponding to some
things locally of the face, palliated only as I found in this
case, and it fails in the general condition and hepatic
symptoms — ^its pain being stitching, and worse on inspira-
tion, not present in the case cited.
Cohhicwm has no su^h facial conditions. Stdphtr
causes swelling of the cheek, but the redness is circum-
scribed, or face is pale, and erysipelas begins at the right
ear, though its action on the liyer and general yitali^
would render it a yery useful medicine to a patient of this
kind, when passed out of the acute illness. Arnica acts
on the right side of the head and face, and fails in the
mental symptoms. Chelidonium, yery like in many respects^
fails in the facial symptoms as compared with sanguinaria ;
the swelling, redness, stifthess, and soreness of the face
and head are so yery extensiye in the preying of this drag.
China, the face is alternately red and pale. Mezereon is
deficient in hepatic symptoms. Sabina has flushes of heat*
Colocynth, arsenic, and belladonna suit rather the neu-
ralgias of gout. Guaiacwni much resembles sanguinarui,
but seems not so fully preyed, and its hepatic action is not
so clearly made out. The redness of gvuiacum is spotted,
but the power of this drug to induce swelling of the side of
head and face is akin to that of sanguinaria, and its
suitability to gout about the head is well known.
ISSS^SSTSS^ CUOTCAL CASES. 739
Case m.
Neuralgia cured by Gelsemium.
A yonng lady, sat. 19, daughter of the patient whose case-
was described in case I., once suffered from a seyere
neuralgia. When the pain occurred, it began in the occiput,
then extended forward to the forehead, and proceeded to a
continuous cephalalgia. The tongue was white, bowels
constipated, and there was some catarrh of the nose. Pain
decidedly worse from warmth of any kind, as when near the
fire. It returned promptly at 11 a.m. each morning, left
her suddenly in the evening, and did not trouble her during
the night. She slept well. But it returned again the next
morning at 11 a.m. Pain felt seyerely across the forehead
and eyeballs. Although this neuralgia had continued
severely for several days, it was quickly cured by gelsem. (p
gtt. ii. every fourth hour, acting in twenty-four hours. The
complaint quitted her suddenly at mid-day, and did not-
return again. The indication for this medicine was found
in the course and progress of the symptoms (Cypher
Repertory), viz., from the occiput to the forehead, head and
eyes. Her diathesis is the gouty.
Selection of medicine and remarks.
Why choose gehemium i From a strictly homoeopathic
point of view, which is our present consideration, where we
have so definitely localised a neuralgia as this one is, it is
a good plan to exclude at once all medicines which have
not the symptom. Beasons for selecting any other would
be farther to reach and more difiScult to give than I am at
present in a position to account for. Therefore, if on turn-
ing to the Repertory this symptom be found, it is most
practicable to deal only with such drugs as possess it.
Suffice it to say that few drugs present the characters of
this neuralgia both in kind and locality. Bar. carb. (shoot-
ing pain), cyclamen (drawing pain, and through temple
also), and sabina^ and kali carb. (tearing pain), lactic aicid
(on lying down), ag.-n. (compressive and cutting), gUmoin
(throbbing), and mr.'i. (dull), and macrotin (duU), and
dirca p. (deep, congestive, and with throbbing carotids), of
all these none seemed to suit better than geUemium, and
from the fru^t that the catamenia were habitually copious in
this case and were at that time in suspension, this appeared
to afford still good grounds for its seleetion» and, as I ob-
740 cLnaoAL cases. ^'SSSL
• Dae. 1,1861.
seiredy it promptly cared the nenralgic pain. The kind of
pain of gelsemium is of the dull land in these localities,
hnt it also produces seyere neuralgic pains, that is, the
pain has severe exacerbations, and pains also which haye
been described as drawing, dragging and tearing. We
know that sometimes different persons describe pains
which are essentially of the same nature by yery different
appellations, so that medicinal equiyalents sometimes have
their pains expressed under different kinds of pains. A
•definite seat and a direction of pain is of the highest
importance, especially if the character of pain complained
•of closely resembles that which is described by the patient.
What one person calls a quick, tearing pain, another person
not so accustomed to describe his or her ailments may term
a shooting pain, or may confess an inability to describe it
at all until we suggest seyeral kinds of pain to him, or show
him a printed list, when he will often fix upon a pain
corresponding to his idea of the meaning of the word
standing for it. This renders the matter often very doabtM
to the prescriber. Of course, in other instances, there is
much less liability to error. Most persons, for instance,
can distinguish between a " scraping pain " and a ** throb-
bing pain " (or, as it is called in this locality of England, a
** linking pain "). Again, a dull pain and an aching pain
are to many persons about synonymous, and the same may
1)0 said of a bruised pain, or a pain as if beaten.
On Oeneral Selection of Medicine, and Remarks.
In selecting a medicine for two such cases as those just
described, by what principles are we to be guided?
Firstly, it is clear that in each case we haye as data a
given constitutional dyscrasia, or peculiar condition of
general bodily health, as a basis ; and secondly, an array of
local symptoms of a special kind in each instance in
addition. For the totality of these phenomena we have to
prescribe. Now, of the several methods which might be
enumerated of covering symptoms and conditions, &c.,
namely, of prescribing in some one way or the other under
the very wide canopy of the homoeopathic formula, two at
least of such methods naturally occur to our minds as
3>re-eminent and superior, both in principle and practice^
to all other methods under this law of similia. These two
methods are — ^firstly (a), a selection precisely for the local
symptoms according to their exact nature, with their
^SSi^^^^n^^ CLINICAL CASES. 741
Beffiew, Dec. 1, 1881.
precise conditions and concomitants, &c.y and this is one
form of similia ; and secondly (6), a selection snitable both
to the general bodily health or dyscrasia, plus all the local
symptoms precisely, with their exact conditions and con-
comitants, &o., and this latter method, as everyone knows^
mast form the highest and most complete form of homoeo-
pathy, and for obvioas reasons. If there be seyerol
medicines in the Materia Medica which will fall easily
into the latter category, it is clear that we are abundantly
rich ; if but one were found, the course open for selection
should still be easy. But how often does it happen that
we are not able easily to find this correspondence, and even
sometimes perhaps it is not actually possible. We are
then sometimes compelled to fall back, against our wish, on
the former method, knowing it to be subsidiary, yet it ofben
affords us a most material aid, enabling us to subdue all the
local symptoms, with great relief to the patient and with
the subsidence of the actiye disease. To take an illustra-
tion, I should consider that belladonna, when prescribed
for enlarged glands, falls into this subsidiary branch of the
homoeopathic law. When prescribing this medicine for
swellings of the lymphatic glands, whether cervical or
mesenteric, everyone ImowB how beautifully this medicine
acts, what great things it accomplishes for the glandular
hypersemia— sometimes subduing the swelling and. even
the inflammation with great rapidity, and nearly always
doing good. No one, so far as I know, doubts its
homoeopathicity to such an array of symptoms, nor do L
Do not let us therefore smash this minor deity because he
may be unable to avert for us the entire plague of scrofula.
Do not let us seek to dishonour him even below his proper
level, nor try to rob him of his habitation and his name.
Let us at least yield him that respect which is his just
due, lest we ourselves should be justly punished in
return.
Now, it is easy to find a drug in the Repertory having
the exact local symptoms, compared with the task of getting
one to meet botii these and the dyscrasia. For instance,
several medicines suit gouty persons as a general thing, but
the local symptoms may be absent from the Repertory under
these very drugs, and considering that the provings are
not as yet quite complete, what are we to do ? Are we to
throw overboard the local symptoms and give a drug, which
is known as a general thing to be suitable to gouty persons
742 CLIKICAL 0A8SS.
Beview, Dee. 1, 1881.
— say, for instance, colchicum or aetaa, &c. — for gtbij
person whose case we cannot at the time completely caver?
We naturally say no ; this would be very risky work.
Again, are we to select some one special symptom, and
call it a key-note, and provided the mental condition
simply be present, and even, if yon will, the general suit-
ability of snch dmg to the dyscrasia, are we to select ibis
for onr totality, believing it to be the best medicine?
This, again, would be risky ; the local symptoms, if not in
the provings, might fail to give way, and tiie patient be a long
time getting better. Except in exceptional instances,
this is so, because the immense number of symptoms
now at our disposal enable us in the great majority
of medicines to determine exactly in which direction
the local symptoms turn or tend. The provings should
contain the evidence of this witiiin themselves. They
are open to everybody's inspection, and if we say that
because drug A causes symptom B — ^that this being a
purely mental symptom, or any other peculiar symptom —
that it is therefore the medicine, because of this key-note,
we shall be in serious danger of error. That any person
of note or distinction should have stated it so, or told us
of it, does not necessarily make it any the more true. In
hcty the very circumstance that such medicme should be
capable of setting up this mental state, pins a state of
bodily health in general allied to gout ; and yet, after having
accumulated hundreds and perhaps thousands of symptoms,
that there is not a symptom anything like the local
symptoms we require, but instead, perhaps, they all point
quite in another direction, and sometimes quite in the oppo-
site direction, seems to me to be almost absolute proof
that THB medicine is not homcaopathy at all accord-
ing to the higher conceptions of that term, and
that we cannot expect any speedy amelioration of the array
of symptoms then before us. Hahnemann tells us to pre-
scribe for the totality in each instance. Let us do so. For
instance. To state that calcarea has a special homoeo-
pathic key-note among local symptoms, observed only from
our perception of a case of cure, when amongst the enor-
mous array of ccdea/rea symptoms, there is no such one,
nor anything like it, but symptoms quite in the reverse
direction for the most part, and to make such an indication
without at the same time qualifying it as clinical only, may
be to mislead any persons seeking for information irbo may
¥S^J^X!^ . CLINIOAL CASES, 748
"be less well informed than those who bring forward snch
symptoms as leading homoBopathic indications.
On the extremities, the pathogenetic symptoms of cole,
carb. are heat, or else heat and sweat, qnite the reverse of
cold, damp feet, which finds no place in the proyings. The
former condition is a very common one, and especially so
in young delicate children, in association with some of tibeir
ailments, and, as I have verified over and over again in
practice, calc, carb. cares well nnder these circumstances ;
but if it be prescribed for cold, damp feet, it does not succeed
nearly so well. If it cure under this last-named condition,
it must be quite exceptional, and I doubt even then if it
removes this very symptom of cold dampness. There is
no conclusive proof that it is in the higher homoeopathic
grade for such a condition.
Again, as regards the head symptoms of perspiration,
when we look into the pathogenesy, what do we find ? Not
sweating of the head as has been sometimes given as its
indication ; on the contrary, it is sweat on the forehead,
face, and back of the neck. Head perspiration especially is
lefi; out. We do, on the other hand, notice plenty of heat
about the head. Here, in clinical observation, we may often
be led into error unless guarded ; for many persons if asked
if the child sweats at night about the head, will say, '^ 0,
yes, a great deal ; " whereas they have not precisely, under-
stood our meaning, and give their answer too readily. Thus
they may have seen sweat on the face, neck, and other
parts, and so give us this answer for sweating on the head.
As a contrast, iUicea again does cause sweat on the head
and of the head itself, and this is noted that it may actually
run from the head down upon the forehead. Here, then,
is a distinct difference between these two drugs so far as
the provings can at present tell us. The sweat for col-
carea c. is on the forehead and face per se, that of Mica on
the head, streaming down to the forehead and face, and the
latter is just what we get in ricketty children where silica
is so useful. Moreover the odour of the sweat is different
in the two cases. I cannot help thinking that cases of the
head perspiration cured by calc. carb. may have been
actually sweating of the forehead, face, occipital region, &c.,
and not essentiidly of the head. We must substantiate and
justify homoeopathy more by the provings, rather than by
irrelevant things.
744 ON THE GEBM THEOBY. ""^S^. ^ee, i; iffii.
ON THE GERM THEORY-*
By Pbof. Pastbub.
The subject of my oommimicatiou is yaceination in rela*
tion to diicken cholera and splenic fever, and a statement
of the method by which we have arrived at these i^snlts —
a method the fruitfolness of which inspires me with
boundless anticipations. Before discussing the question of
splenic fever vaccine, which is the most important, permit
me to recall the results of my investigations of chicken
cholera. It is through this inquiry that new and highly-
important principles have been introduced into science
concerning the virus or contagious quality of transmissible
diseases. More than once in what I am about to say I
shall employ the expression virus-culture, as formerly, in
my investigations on fermentation, I used the expressions,
the culture of milk ferment, the culture of the butyric
vibrion, etc. Let us take, then, a fowl which is about to
die of chicken cholera, and let us dip the end of a delicate
glass rod in the blood of the fowl, with the usual precau-
tions, upon which I need not here dwell. Let us then
touch with this charged point some bouiUon de potde^ very
clear, but first of all rendered sterile under a temperature
of about 116^ centigrade, and under conditions in which
neither the outer air nor the vases employed can introduce
exterior germs — those germs which are in the air, or on the
surface of all objects. In a short time, if the litUe culture
vase is placed in a temperature of 26^ to 35?, you will see
the liquid become turbid, and full of tiny microbes, shaped
like the figure 8, but often so small that under a high magni-
fying power they appear like points. Take from this vase a
^op as small as you please — no more than can be carried
on the point of a glass rod as sharp as a needle — and touch
with this point a fresh quantity of sterilized b<nUUon de
poulCf placed in a second vase, and the same phenomenon
is produced. You deal in the same way with a third culture
vase, with a fourth, and so on to a himdred, or even a
thousand^ and invariably, within a few hours, tiiie culture-
liquid becomes turbid, and filled with the same minute
organisms.
At the end of two or three days' exposure to a tempera-
ture of about 80^ G. the thickness of the liquid disappears,
^ Bead before the Ihtematioiial Heclioal Congress, London, 1881.
2S5^2r5?SSi*" ON THE GBBM THBOBT. 745
Bevifew, Dec. 1, 1881.
and a sediment is formed at the bottom of the vase. This
signifies that the development of the minnte organism has
ceased — ^in other words, all the little points which caused the
tnrbid appearance of the liquid have fallen to the bottom of
the vase, and things will remain in this condition for a longer
or shorter time, for months even, without even the liquid or
the deposit undergoing any visible modification, inasmuch
as we have taken care to exclude the germs of the atmo*
sphere. A little stopper of cotton sifts the air which enters
or issues from the vase through changes of temperature.
Let us take one of our series of culture preparations — the
hundredth or the thousandth, for instance — and compare
it, in respect to its virulence, with the blood of a fowl
which has died of cholera ; in other words, let us inoculate
under the skin of ten fowls, for instance, each separately,,
with a tiny drop of infectious blood, and ten others with a
similar quantity of the liquid in which the deposit has first
been shaken up. Strange to say, the latter ten fowls will
die as quickly, and with the same sjrmptoms as the former
ten ; the blood of all will be found to contain after death
the same minute infectious organisms. This equality, so
to speak, in the virulence both of the culture preparation
and of the blood, is due to an apparently futile circum-
stance. I have made a hundred culture preparations — at
least, I have understood that this was done — ^without
leaving any considerable interval between the impregnations.
Well, here we have the cause of the equality in the ^mrulence.
Let us now repeat exactly our successive cultures, with this
single difierence, that we pass from one culture to that which
follows it — ^from the hundredth to, say, the hundred and
first, at intervals of a fortnight, a month, two months^
three months, or ten months. If, now, we compare the
virulence of the successive cultures, a great change will be
observed. It will be readily seen from an inoculation of &
series of ten fowls, that the virul^ice of one culture differs
from that of the blood, and from that of a preceding culture,
when a sufficiently long interval elapses between the
impregnation of one culture with the microbe or the
preceding. Mwd than that, we may recognise by this
mode of observation that it is possible to prepare cultures
of varying degrees of virulence. One preparation will kill
eight fowLs out of ten, another five out of ten, another one
out of ten, and another none at all, although the microbe
may still be cultivated. In fact, what is no less strange, if
No. 12, YoL 85. 8 0
746 ON THE GEKM THEORY. '*^w!dSW.
yon take each of these cultures of attenuated virolenee as
a point of departure in the preparation of successiye enltnres
and without appreciable internal in the impregnation, the
whole series of these cultures will reproduce the attenuated
Tirulence of that which has served as a starting point* Simi*
iarly, where the virulence is null it produces no effect. How,
then, it may be asked, are the effects of these attenuating
virulences revealed in the fowls ? They are revealed by a
local disorder ; by a morbid modification, more or less pro«
found, in a muscle — if it is a muscle — ^which has been
inoculated with the virus. The muscle is filled with
microbes which are easily recognised, because the attenuated
microbes have almost the bulk, the form, and the appear-
ance of the most virulent microbes.
But why is not the local disorder followed by death ?
For the moment let us answer by a statement of facts.
They are these : The local disorder ceases of itself more or
less speedily, the microbe is absorbed and digested — ^if one
may say so — and little by little the muscle regains its
normal condition. Then the disease has disappeared.
When we inoculate with the microbe, the virulence of
which is null, there is not even local disorder, the natura
Tnedicatrix carries it off at once ; and here, indeed, we see
the influence of the resistance of life, since this microbe,
the virulence of which is null, multiplies itself. A Uttle
farther and we touch the principle of vaccination. When
the fowls have been rendered sufficiently ill by the
attenuated virus which the vital resistance has arrested in
its development, they will, when inoculated with virulent
virus, suffer no evil effects, or only effects of a passing
character. In fact, they no longer die from the mortal viras,
and for a time sufficiently long — which in some cases may
exceed a year — chicken cholera cannot touch them, espe-
cially under the ordinary conditions of contagion which
exist in fowl-houses. At this critical point of our manipu*
lation — ^that is to say, in this interval of time which we
have placed between two cultures, and which causes the
attenuation — ^What occurs ? I shidl show you that in this
interval the agent which intervenes is the oxygen of the
air* Nothing more easily admits of proof. Let us produce
a culture in a tube containing very little air, and close this
tube with an enameller's lamp. The microbe, in developing
itself, will speedily take all the oxygen of the tube and dt
the liquid^ i^t^ which it will be quite free from contact
l5riS^D2rvS^ ON THE OEKU THBOBY. 747
with oxygen. In this case, it does not appear that the
microbe becomes appreciably attenuated, even after a great
lapse of time. The oxygen of the air, then, would seem to
be a possible modifying agent of the yirulence of the
microbe of the chicken cholera : that is to say, it may
modify more or less the facility of its development in the
body of animals. May we not be here in presence of a
general law applicable to all kinds of virus ? What benefits
may not be the result ? We may hope to discover in this
way the vaccine of all virulent diseases ; and what is more
natural than to begin our investigation of the vaccine of what
we in French call charbon, what you in England call splenic
fever, and what in Russia is known as the Siberian pest,
and in Germany as the Milzbrand ?
In this new investigation I have had the assistance of
iwo devoted young savants^ MM. Chamberland and Roux.
At the outset we were met by a difficulty. Among the
inferior organisms, all do not resolve themselves into those
corpuscle germs which I was the first to point out as one
of the forms of their possible development. Many infectious
microbes do not resolve themselves in their cultures into
corpuscle germs. Such is equally the case with beer
yeast, which we do not see develop itself usually in brew-
eries, for instance, except by a sort of fissiparity. One cell
makes two or more, which form themselves in wreaths ;
the cells become detached, and the process recommences.
In these cells real germs are not usually seen. The microbe
of chicken cholera and many others behave in this way, so
much so that the cultures of this microbe, although they
may last for months without losing their power of fresh
cultivation, perish finally like beer yeast which has ex-
hausted all its aliments. The anthracoid microbe in
in artificial cultures behaves very differently. In the blood
of animals, as in cultures, it is found in translucid fila-
ments, more or less segmented. This blood or these cul-
tures freely exposed to air, instead of continuing according
to the first mode of generation, show at the end of forty-'
eight hours corpuscle germs distributed in series more or
less regular along the filaments. All around these cor-
puscles, matter is absorbed; as I have represented it
formerly in one of the plates of my work on the diseases
•of silkworms. Little by little all connection between them
disappears, and presently they are reduced to nothing more
than germ dust.
8c-2
748 ON THE GEBM THBOBT. *iS&r?D5??Sr
If yoa make these corpuscles germinate, the new enltnre
reprodaces the Tinilence peculiar to the thready form
which has produced these corpuscles, and this result is
seen even after a long exposure of these germs to contact
with air. Beceutly we discovered them in pits in which
animals, dead of splenic fever, had been buried for twelve
years, and their culture was as virulent as that from the
blood of an animal recently dead. Here I regret extremely
to be obliged to shorten my remarks. I should have had
much pleasure in demonstrating that the anthracoid germs
in the earth of pits in which animals have been buried are
brought to the surface by earth-worms, and that in this
fact we may find the whole etiology of disease, inasmuch
as the animals swallow these germs with their food. A
great difficulty presents itself when we attempt to apply
our method of attenuation by the oxygen of the air to the
anthracoid microbes. The virulence establishing itself
very quickly — often after twenty-four hours in an anthra-
coid germ which escapes the action of the air — it
was impossible to think of discovering the vaccine
of splenic fever in the conditions which had yielded
that of chicken-cholera. But was there, after all»
reason to be discouraged ? Certainly not ; in fact,
if you observe closely, you will find that there is no real,
difi'erence between the mode of the generation of the
anthracoid germ by scission and that of chicken-chol^:a.
We had therefore reason to hope that we might overcome
the difficulty which stopped us by endeavouring to prevent
the anthracoid microbe &om producing corpuscle germs,
and to keep it in this condition in contact with oxygen for
days, and weeks, and months. The experiment fortunately
succeeded.
Id the ineffective {nevtra) bouillon de poule the anthra-
coid microbe is do longer cultivable at 45^ C. Its culture,
however, is easy at 42^ or 43^, but in these conditions the
microbe yields no spores. Consequently, it is possible to
maintain, in contact with the pure air at 42^ or 43^, a
mycelienive culture of bacteria entirely free of germs^r
Then appear the very remarkable results which follow. In
a month or six weeks the culture dies — ^that is to say, if
one impregnates it with fresh bauiUon, the latter is com-
pletely sterile. Up to that time life exists in the vase
exposed to air and heat* If we examine the virulence of
the culture at the end of two days, four days, «ix days.
"iSS^fSnnS^ on thk gbbm theory. 74»
eight days, etc., it will be found that long before the death
of the cnltnre the microbe had lost all Tirulence, although
still cultivable. Before this period it is found that the cul-
ture presents a series of attenuated yirulences. Everything
is similar to what happens in respect to the microbe in
chicken cholera. ^Besides, each of these conditions of
attenuated virulence may be reproduced by culture ; in fact,
since the charbon does not operate a second time {ne reddive
pas), each of our attenuated anthracoid microbes constitutea
for the superior microbe a vaccine — ^that is to say, a virus
capable of producing a milder disease. Here, then, we
have a method of preparing the vaccine of splenic fever.
You will see presently the practical importance of this re-
sult ; but what interests us more particularly, is to observe
that we have here a proof that we are in possession of a
general method of preparing virus vaccipe, based upon the
action of the oxygen of the air — ^that is to say, of a cosmic
force existing everywhere on the face of the globe.
I regret to be unable, from want of time, to show you
that all these attenuated forms of virus may very easily, by
a physiological artifice, be made to discover their original
maximum virulence. The method I have just explained of
obtaining the vaccine of splenic fever was no sooner made
known, than it was very extensively employed to prevent
the splenic affection. In France, we lose every year, by
splenic fever, animals of the value of twenty million francs.
I was asked to give a public demonstration of the results
already mentioned. This experiment I may relate in a
very few words. Fifty sheep were placed at my disposition,
of which twenty-five were vaccinated. A fortnight after-
ward the fifty sheep were inoculated with the most virulent
anthracoid microbe. The twenty-five vaccinated sheep
resisted the infection ; the twenty-five unvaccinated died of
splenic fever within fifty hours. Since that time my ener-
gies have been taxed to meet the demands of farmers for
supplies of this vaccine. In the space of fifteen days we
have vaccinated in the departments surrounding Paris more
than twenty thousand sheep, and a large number of cattle
and horses. If I were not pressed for time I would bring
to your notice two other kinds of virus attenuated by similar
means. These experiments will be communicated by-and-
by to the public. I cannot conclude, gentlemen, without
expressing the great pleasure I feel at the thought that it
is as a member of an International Medical Congress
760 BEViEWs. "Sia.^rf^*"
Beriev, Dec 1, 1881.
assembled in England that I make known the most recent
results of vaccination npon a disease more terrible, perhaps,
for domestic animals than small-pox is for man. I have
given to vaccination an extension which science, I hope,
will accept as a homage paid to the merit and to the
immense services rendered by one of the greatest men of
England, Jenner. What a pleasure for me to do honour
to this immortal name in this noble and hospitable city
of London !
REVIEWS.
TransaetionB of the InUmatumal Homceopathie Convention^ held
iji London^ JuLy^ 1661. London : J. E. Adlard, Bartholomew^
Close. 1881.
With a degree of promptitude which is in the highest degree
creditable to Dr. Hughes, the TranMtctioM before us appeared
within two months of the close of the meetings, of which thej form
a record. To have accomplished so arduous a task as the
arrangement, revision, and correction of 800 such pages as those
in this volmne, must have made large demands not only on the
editor's time, but must likewise have tested his ingenuity.
We find at the commencement a list of the officers and
members of the Convention. Presence at the meetings, and
affixing the signature to the roll, was held to constitute member-
ship. Of members, then, there were among ourselves eighty-two..
But these figures are far from representing all English prac-
titioners of homoeopathy who took an interest in the proceedings.
This is happily made apparent by the list of those who subscribed
towards defraying the expenses of the meetings published in our
Beview for June. Of those who contributed of their substance,
but were from one cause or another unable to be present, there
were forty-nine. So that we may fairly say that 131 British
practitioners took part in the proceedings.
The volume is divided into four parts. The first contains the
minutes of the general meetings and of the sectional meetings.^
The second is devoted to the address of the President. The third
to the reports of the progress of homoeopathy in different parts
of the world. The fourth to the various essays that were
presented for discussion, of which there are twenty-one.
The method adopted of placing copies of the papers in the
hands of a few chosen speakers, and of only reading abstracts of
them to the members assembled, had several great advantages.
Time was saved, and a large amount of discussion took place
which, had the essays been read, would have been impossible*.
Monthly Homceopathic -nwrv-ssra 751
iWtter, Dec. 1, 1881. aEVIbW8> i OI-
Further, the debaters being chosen beforehand, firom among
those whose preTiooa work had shown them to be especially
qualified to deal with the sul^ects entrusted to them, was also
advantageous. The speeches were much superior to those ordi-
narily heard on such occasions, were much fuller, and much
more instructive. They read in the Transactions like brief but
carefully prepared essays. Debaters were not, however, limited
to those appointed to speak, but these gentlemen having con-
cluded what they had to say, others had an opportunity of
expressing their opinions, which they did freely and fully, and,
as we can well see in the reports, with much advantage.
This plan of carrying on a scientific meeting is much to be
preferred to that ordinarily adopted of reading the papers in>
extensoj and debating them afterwards. Doubtless, to be carried
out as fully as it may be, a copy of the paper to be discussed
should have been in the hands of every member present. This,
however, was impracticable on the occasion we are considering.
We most confidently commend the reports of these speeches
to the attention of our readers, feeling assured that they will read
them, as we have done, with great interest.
The reports of the discussions are followed by the eloquent and
excellent address of the President, Dr. Hughes. We listened to
the address with much pleasure, and we have read it with still
greater. The conception of homoBopathy set forth therein is, we
are sure, the correct one. The determination, come what may,
to adhere to what we believe to be true, expressed by Dr. Hughes,
is worthy of all admiration. While the desire that differences of
opinion should not be hindrances to professional association, but
rather subjects of professional discussion which should lead to
higher, wider, and more accurate conceptions of what is true in
medicine, will find an echo in every breast not stifled by preju-
dice, ignorance, or narrowness. All who read this address will,
we feel sure, rise from its perusal the better for having done so.
The third part is devoted to reports on the history of homceo-
pathy during the last five years, furnished by Belgium, Canada,
France, Germany, Great Britain and her Colonies, India, Italy,
Bussia, Spain, and the United States.
Dr. Martiny, of Brussels, describes the present state of
homoeopathy in Belgium. His brief account assures us thtEt
the progress of our views there is eminently satisfactory, and
especially so at present. Hence, when in 1886 the next Inter-
Dational Homoeopathic Convention assembles in its capital, we
believe that those who are present will find that its appreciation
has largely extended.
Canada is reported on by its provinces. Dr. Logan, of Ottawa,
sketches its history in Ontario ; Dr. Nichol, of Montreal, writes on
behalf of Quebec ; and Dr. Allan King, of St. John, for the
752 BBTIBWS. B«fieir,D«s.i.iaB*
Maritiine Provinces. The result is an eihibition of steady pro-
gress, both among the more inteUigent dasses of soeiety a&d
among medical men.
Dr. Glande, of Paris, is the author of the report on France.
There, it appears, the progress of homoeopathy is not so
rapid as we should expect it to be. The reason, however, is all
too plain, and consists in the propensity of our neighbours to
form themselves into groups, divided against one another, on
points of secondary importance. Dr. Claude's account of these
divisions among the 800 homoeopathists who minister to the
wants of their country remind us of the words of M. Thiers, who,
when taking leave of the deputies before the holidays, expressed
a hope that on their return to Versailles he should find them
less Elepublican, less Bonapartist, less Legitimist, and all more
French, We would that our colleagues in Paris could be
brought to feel that, by attaching supreme importance to minor
points, they are impeding the progress of homoeopathy ; that
one large and comprehensive society would effect far more good
than three small and, as it were, sectarian associations; that
one good-sized hospital would be more useful than two com-
paratively little ones ; that a journal which would give currency
to the views of all would do more good than three or four which
are limited to the expression, each of one set of opinions ; that
union is strength is a lesson our French brethren have got to
learn ; and, if homoeopathy is to advance there, they must both
learn it and act up to it.
Germany was to have been reported on by Dr. Goullon, jun.,
of Weimar, but as he failed to do so. Dr. Dudgeon, who is
thoroughly familiar with German literature, undertook the task«
His account is not satisfactory. In Germany homoeopa&y
appears at the best to be stationary.' The practice of medicine
there offers but a slender chance of making a livelihood. Com-
petition is great, and the fee, regulated by law at two marks or
a couple of shillings a visit, does not admit of a homoeopathic
physician making a living. Patients get well under homoeo-
pathic treatment too fast to allow of a physician earning enough
to keep himself and his family at two shillings a visit, so
homoeopathy makes but little progress. To be a physician in
Germany a man must be an allopath to make as many visits
during an illness as will enable him to keep himself. Just now,
however, a good deal of attention is being directed to homoeo-
pathy by allopathic persecution, so that we look for a revival in
the &,therland of homoeopathy ere long.
The state of homoeopathy in Great Britain and the Colonies is
set forth by Dr. Pope, and as that may be fairly supposed to be
known by our colleague^ here, we need not further refer to it.
iSSS'SrrS^ BBViKws. 768
KiBfiew, Dm. 1. IBSL.
Dr. Sincar*8 aeconnt of the history of homoaopftthy ia India
U very interestiiig, and from it we gather that progreas there,
though Blow, is still satisfactory.
, In Italy the spread of honusopathy is» according to Dr.
Amtdphy, of Nice, restricted hy imperfect organisation. Never-
theless, improvement is being daily manifested, and if Italy can
boast of a few physicians so earnest and so accomplished as
Dr. Cigliano, who attended the Convention, we are sore that
homoBopathy will ere long become a power in that country.
The account of homoeopathy in Russia, by Dr. Bojanus, of
Moscow, is very interesting. When we consider the innumer-
able restrictions on freedom of opinion and indeed on everything
else which exist in that country of Imperial and Nihihstio despot- .
ism, we think his report may be regarded as good.
. A native having failed to respond to the invitation to tell us
how homcBopathy fares in Spain, Dr. Tuckey very kindly under-
iook to examine the facts concerning its progress. In the
course of a short but interesting narrative, he succeeds in
showing that quiet but satisfactory progress is being made in all
departments of the Peninsula.
Following the easy-going people of Spain, who proverbially
put off doing to-day what tiiey fancy that they can do as well
to-morrow, we come to the report by Dr. Talbot, of Boston, on
the state of homoeopathy in the energetic young giant of the
Western hemisphere — the United States of .^erica. From this
we find that, starting with one homoeopathic physician in 1825,
they have to-day upwards of six thousand, and, in addition,
twenty-six State and more than one hundred local societies,
thirty-eight hospitals, forty dispensaries, eleven medical colleges,
and seventeen journals. We trust that homoeopathy will con-
tinue to flourish there, and when we note the earnestness and
ability displayed in the discussions by those who came over to
represent American homoeopathy at the Convention, we have not
a shadow of doubt but that it will do so.
This portion of the Transactions concludes with a report on
homoeopathy in Victoria, Australia, by Mr. Martin, of Mel-
bourne. His account is in ail respects satisfactory.
The concluding section of this volume is made up of the
essays presented for discussion. Of these we gave a brief
resume in our report of the proceedings in our August number.
We need, therefore, say nothing further about them, save that in
all therapeutics is prominent, especially prominent. The cure
of disease is that which the writers have aimed at discussing—^
not the post mortem appearances it displays. Hence, these
papers are of considerable value, and when read in connection
with the criticisms they elicited in debate, will we are sure be
ibund very useful to botii students and practitioners of medicine^
754 BKVIEWS. Ibefiew*I>ee.l,1ttU
Finally, we mxmt eongratnlate Dr. Hnghee on the complete
saeceBs of the gathering he initiated, wivked at TwiremittiTiglyy
and carried through with so much gratification to eTetyone ccm-
cemed. The Tohime we have heen noticing completes hia woik,
and does so most worthily. We trost that all our medical
hrethren will purchase it. The coet most have been con-
siderable to admit of so handsome a yolnme being brought ont
in the way it has been, while, as is well known, the fnnds at the
disposal of the committee were quite inadequate to provide for
the publication of the TraiwicUons, We therefore trust that
Dr« Hughes will not be allowed, through a deficiency in sales, to-
be any loser by having so generously, so thorou^y, and so
erediti^ly finished the work he had undertaken.
The Homoeopathic Physician's Fisidng Ust and Pockst Esperkny^
By BoBEBi Fauueseb, M.D. Boericke & Tafel.
When, as is usual at the close of the year, medical practitioners
are beginning to think about a new visiting list, we would com<
mend that before us to the notice of homoeopathic practitioners.
Its chief feature is that it contains a Repertory ; which, brief
though it is, will oftentimes prove useful. In addition to the
spaces ruled for the record of a visit the corresponding page is
ruled with spaces sufficiently large to allow of the name of the
medicine being written therein — a very great convenience in
many instances.
NOTABIUA.
BATH HOMOEOPATHIC HOSPITAL.
A Bazaab and Exhibition of Paintings and other Works of Art
was held in the City of Bath, during i^e first week of last month.
The following report of the proceedings is firom the Bath Argus,
of the 5th ult. : —
*' The Bazaar was opened at noon on Wednesday by the
Mayor, who was supported, amongst others, by the following:
gentlemen :--the Bevs. C. S. Hort, G. Newnham (of Corsham),
and N. Numberg ; Colonel Black ; Doctors Holland, Newman,,
and Norman ; Messrs. G. Cruickshank, T. Beeves, &c.
''In his speech his Worship observed that when he was re-
quested to open that bazaar, he decided to pay a visit to the
hospital. He did not give the management notice in order that
a holiday appearance might be put on, and everything put ship-
shape, but quietly walked there one day after his duties at the^
Guildhall were discharged, and asked permission to inspect tho
wards. He must congratulate the committee upon the arrange-
SSSS'SrrS^ NOTABILIA. 755
Beview, Deo. 1, 1881.
mentff that were made for the indoor patients. Everything
seemed in perfect order, the matron was most attentive and
obliging, and the patients gratefnl. Since its establishment it
has admitted 620 in-patients, and treated 15,600 out-patients.
They mast at once realise in some slight degree the benefits the
committee had been conferring upon the poor of onr city. Hi?
Worship made complimentary reference to Dr. Holland, who so
kindly gave one day in six to the hospital. Dr. Newman, the
fomider, who was actively connected with it for 85 years, and
who is now an honorary physician, and Mr. Norman, who
devoted two days a week to the institution, and then declared
the bazaar open.
" The Bev. Q-. Newnham proposed a vote of thanks^ to the
Mayor. Colonel Black seconded, and after being supported by^
Dr. Holland it was carried.
*' The Mayor on returning thanks was presented with a
bouquet by Miss O. Hort. Mr. G. Gruiokshank mentioned that
after the American war eight or nine hundred soldiers were
treated by the homoeopathic system, and a similar number by
the allopathic mode. Under the former 5 died and 15 remained
in the hospital, while under the latter 120 died and 189 remained
in the hospital.
''A great feature of the bazaar was the valuable and in-
teresting assemblage of objects displayed in the Octagon Boom.
There were pictures, china, examples of work in the precious
metals, embroidery, and other things in which the cultivated
mind delights. The pictures were placed around the room ;
some on tables rested against the walls, with others hanging'
above them, and many found most convenient places on the
well-known seats of the rooms. The contents of one of these
seats were particularly attractive, and as they faced the windows
they were well lighted, ten advantage which, from the construction
of the room, it was impossible all these treasures could enjoy.
The pictures we allude to were part of a large contribution sent
by Dr. Dyce Brown. They were a remarkably good example of
Collins — a very pretty picture with a wrong name ; a capital
Morlaud called ' The Fleecy Charge,' a title that will suggest the
subject to those acquainted with his works ; and a picture of the
present time, a water-colour by Wilmot Pilsbury, in which a
wheat field, with distant village, is most skilfully treated. Dr.
Brown also sent a capital sketch of a dead pigeon by W. Hunt,
one of J. D. Linton's single figure studies, entitled * Ofif Guard,'
a recent picture by Stocks of ' Dante and Virgil crossing tho
Styx,' and several other works of mark. Of Mr. Blaine's contri-
butions, one struck us as being particularly charming ; it appears
to be the portrait of a young lady, in which the pretty face is
foil of animation. She is c^essed in black, with a white lao&
766 NOTABILIA. *SSSL
Beviev, Bee. 1, IBtL
ruff, and a turban of siimlar material — a fashion of the last
^sentoiy. Mr. Butcher's picture of * Cheddar GUffa, with fog
coming up the Gorge,* is a good example of Hardwiek's wo^ in
oiL The capital pictures of sheep and Scotch cattiLe by Park,
were contributed by the Mayor, who also sent, besides others, a
large picture in which a fine St. Bernard is represented as having
found a child in the snow, but being hung above a door it was
out of the reach of close inspection. Mr. Milsom*s very
pretty circular pictures by Branwhite were unfortunately
hung on the dark side of the room. Mr. Milsom also sent
a fine Syer. Mr. G. H. Stunney was a liberal contributor,
as was Mr. Rainey and Mr. Hill. In a comer, with tittle light
upon it, we observed a large and powerM Bembrandt etching,
sent by Mr. Harbutt. A set of water-colour drawings, repre-
senting the scenery of the Ottaway, excited a great deal of
interest, from their subjects, bright autumnal colouring, the
patience with which they had been studied, and also from the
fact that they were the work of a member of an old Bath &mily,
Mr. Alfred Holdstock, who left his native city for Canada many
years ago. We were struck with the dexterous brush-work and
pleasant colour of a small plaque sent by Mrs. Holland, in which
a nymph is represented playing on a flageolet. It was in one of
two cases contributed by Mr. Chivers, containing fine specimens
of old and modem silver and gold plate, carved ivory tankards,
pierced silver work, and who also had a beautifully constructed
' piping bullfinch,' who every now and then issued from hia
golden nest and sang most merrily. The Bev. C. Hort sent
some Moorish china ; Mr. Gk>odman had a large case containing
choice examples of the Ceramic art. Lady Straubenzee, we
noticed, contributed beautiful alabaster frames, ivory carvings,
and some works in which coral was mixed with silver filigree,
producing excellent results. Mrs. H. M. Skrine sent many
beautiful things. Mr. J. D. Harris, besides some fine bronzes,
sent most delicate and tasteful examples of goldsmith's work
from Cashmere and China; particularly we noticed an exquisitely
wrought casket from the latter country. The Art needlework
from South Kensington appeared to us most beautifully executed,
but of course a judgment on that must be left to the ladies, and
they certainly seemed satisfied. All that we observed appeared
to be perfect in design and arrangement of colour. Other
beautiful things were lent by I^dy Dynevor, Lady Jane Swin-
burne, Mr. T. Owen, Mrs. F. Clerk, Mr. E. T. Payne, Mr.
Tyndale, and others. A very beautiful piano, the case of which
was made by Mr. Knight, wa^ contributed by Messrs. Milsom
and Son. Mr. Chapman's basso relievos attracted much atten-
tion. During each evening this room has been very effectually
lighted by electricity, the machinery being under the super-.
jE^g^gTSir NOTABILIA; 767
intendence of Mr. Braham. Prolmblj in oase of accident the
gae chandeliers were lit, but the new light paled them 8adly«
So bright and pnre was it that the pictures cotdd well be seen in
it, l^e effect of the delicate tints in Mr, Holdstock's Canadian
drawings in no way suffered.
'* The following is a list of those ladies who kindly undertook
the duties of the stalls : — ^Mrs. Black, Miss Fox, Mrs. Hippesley,
Mrs. HoUand, Mrs. Norman, and the Misses Newman, Missea
Little and Orr. There was also a host of young lady assistants,
who were indefatigable in their praiseworthy endeavours.
« The decorations were by Messrs. Becket and Son, of Quiei
Street. The Rhine Band performed at intervals in the gallery,
and a Glee Choir, accompanied by Mrs. Frith on a piano kindly
lent by Mr. Soane, enlivened the proceedings during the
evenings."
PROFESSOR GREENFIELD ON THE LATE
PROFESSOR HENDERSON.
Db. W. S. Gbeenfobld is now the occupant of the chair of
Pathology in the University of Edinburgh, once filled by
Professor Henderson. On the occasion of his Inaugural Address,
Professor Ghreenfield reviewed the past history and present state
of the science it is his business to teach. In his opening
remarks, he referred to the institution and conduct of the chair.
The first ^professor, Dr. John Thompson, is alluded to in no
friendly spirit ; he told his hearers that '* during his tenure of
the professorship, pathology did not suffer in the school, but it
was by the labours of his colleagues rather than his own that it
was enriched." Of Professor Henderson, he says, '*I know
not what infiuence may have been exerted by it during his long
tenure of office, but it cannot have been marked in the hands of
one, who, whatever his genius and accomplishments, was in the
strange position of professing a subject whose methods are
practical, and whose principles are the basis of scientific medi-
cine, whilst he practised a system of therapeutics, originating in
groundless theories, and uncontrolled by scientific observation.
Thus, for thirty-eight years after its foundation, the chair,
instead of advancing on the lines of observation and research,
which should have made it a distinguished aid to science,
remained practically useless for that purpose.'*
Dr. Greenfield has, as all who know anything of modem
pathology know, done good work in that department of science,
and has established his right to be regarded as an authority
tiierein. As a ph3'sician, as a curer of disease, it is otherwise.
Not one &ct, so far as we are aware, has ever been put forward
by bim calculated to render any aid in the' treatment of disease^
758 KOTABILIA. '^^^■iSrfjS?'
Review, Dee. !• IflBU
He has not even done so mncli — as have others — as take a
clinical ofoserration on the use of dmgs from homceopathic litera-
tore, and lay it hefore the profession generally as something new
And nsefhl 1 The distinguished man at whose memory he sneers
so indecently was not only a pathologist of wide and varied
learning, and an original observer of high repnte, bnt he was a
physician of large experience, one who not only knew what
disease was, hnt how to cure such as was corable. Of him the
late Dr. John Beid, of St. Andrews, once said — ''if Henderson
had not been a homoeopathist, he wonld have been the leading
physician in Scotland." As a diagnostician, Henderson had not
his peer in Edinburgh. As a snccessfbl practitioner he was
unrivalled. As a lecturer there was no professor whose addresses
were characterised by greater research, more acute criticism, or
by sounder or more practical learning, while none were more
thoroughly abreast of the science of the day.
That Henderson confined his observations in science to the
class-room is due to the fact that the medical periodicals of the
day were closed to him. The subject of daily insults from his
colleagues in the Faculty of Medicine, he withdrew himself from
all association with them, and threw his energies into private
practice, a department of work his success in which did much
towards exciting enquiry into and stimulating the progress of
homoeopathic therapeutics some thirty years ago. Hated with
all the vigour that an Edinburgh medical professor of that day
appeared to feel so much pleasure in displaying towards one or
other of his colleagues, Henderson was equally the subject of the
fear and envy of the members of the medical faculty.
All this and much more arose from the fact that Dr. Henderson
made homoeopathy the subject of a prolonged, careful, and inde-
pendent investigation, and finding that he could cure disease
more quickly, more safely, and more pleasantly by employing
his medicines on homoeopathic indications, he honesUy and
openly confessed the results of his enquiries, and acted upon
them in practice. This homoeopathy, of which Professor
Greenfield knows nothing ^hateyer, into the merits of which he
has never made any enquiry at all, is described by him as
''originating in groundless theories," and as being ''uncon-
trolled by scientific observation."
Is it likely, we would ask, that a physician who had devoted
fifteen or sixteen years of his professional life to scientific investi-
gations, who, as his immediate successor in the chair, the late
Professor Sanders, said of him in his inaugural address, early
" distinguished himself as an original observer of disease ; " one
to whom we are indebted for our power to discriminate between
typhus and relapsing fevers, and again, between typhoid and
typhus; whose pathological observations and clinical lectures
S^'^rriSf^ NOTABILIA. 769
Beriew, Bee. 1, 1881.
-stamped him as a singularly aeenrate observer, is it possible, we
would ask, that snch a man wonld adopt a method of treatment
<* originating in groundless theories and uncontrolled by scientific
observation." We believe that anything of the kind is utterly
impossible, and the mere fact that a physician of Henderson's
type did adopt homoeopathy is a priori evidence of no mean
value that it is a method which has a soHd foundation in fact,
and is in perfect harmony with scientific observation.
Professor Greenfield would be wiser were he to reserve his
sneers at his distinguished predecessor until he has given proof
jbhat he is something more than an observer of the products of
disease, that he knows something more than its mere natural
history. When he does, he will, we think, regard Henderson's
memory with somewhat more of respect than he did when he
delivered his inaugural address last month.
INTERNATIONAL HOMCEOPATHIG GONVENTION.
The treasurer requests us to state that the subscription of the
Hon. Dr. Allan Gampbell, of Adelaide, was erroneously published
in the Ust as one instead of two guineas.
The following letter, which owing to an imperfect address only
reached the President of the Gonvention last month, would, had
it arrived in time, have been read at the meetings last July.
Germany was unfortunate. One delegate firom Gentral Germany
was stopped by the illness of a near relative occurring suddenly
just as he was on the eve of departure, and we learn from the
letter we now publish that the representative of the Berlin Society
of HomcBopa^c Physicians was detained by the dangerous
illness of his wife. The letter runs as follows : —
** Berlin, 9th July, 1881.
** We deeply regret that Dr. Walz, the member of our Society
who has been appointed to attend the International Homoeopathic
Gonvention in London, and to offer to you our best wishes and
respects, is unable to be present with you, as his wife has
Ajuddenly become dangerously ill. We must therefore by this
letter express to you our sincerest desire for the success of the
Gongress in the development of our venerated science, which is
at present exposed to so much insult.
** We also wish to express our desire to enjoy the great honour
of having the next International Homoeopathic Gonvention held
at Berlin — a desire which has been expressed in the address of
ihe Homoeopathic Gentral Society of Germany, and we join in
760 KOTABHiU. *%S1S
Bsnew. Dec 1, IflU.
eipressmg a hope fthat the meeiixig of the International Homceo-
pi^c Congrees may he hdd at Berlin on the 9th and lOtfa of
Angoflt, and that it will he largely attended.
*' The Berlin Society of Homoeopathic Fhysieians^
** Dr. Fischer, President.
** Knrforstenstr. 58."
THE LEE AND BLACKHEATH MEDICAL AND
SURGICAL AID SOCIETY.
A SociETT on the Provident Aid principle has been formed in
this district, under the management of an influential Committee.
The object of the Committee is to enable the working classes and
others who are unable to pay the usual professional fees, to
secure for themselves, on provident principles, efficient medical
advice and medicine during illness by their own periodical pay-
ments, aided by the contributions of honorary subscribers.
We are especially glad to see that the members of this Society
are allowed Uie choice of either homoeopathic or non-homoeopathic
treatment, and that to this end Dr. Arthur Kennedy, of Black-
heath, has been appointed a medical officer conjoint^ with Dr.
Chittenden, of Lee.
The Committee draw especial attention to this arrangement,
as one that cannot be '< too highly valued."
We congratulate the Committee on the truly just and liberal
spirit displayed in their arrangements, and also on their having
been able to secure the services of a homoeopathic practitioner in
whose skill and attention they may confidently place full rehanee.
THE PASSION FOR PURGATIVES.
Thb passion for purgatives, and the belief in their universal
applicability, has been ridiculed by satirists and surgeons from
Voltaire to Skey, but it still survives. A boy, aged 4i years,
named Frederick Dillnutt, has recently met wi& his death
through the administration of a druggist's purgative powder.
At the inquest, it was stated that the deceased had been iU for a
day or two, and stayed at home firom school. It was not thought
that he was seriously ill, and the mother gave him a purgative
powder. He became worse after having the powder, and died
during the night, as he was being carried from one bedroom to
another. Mr. John Brighouse, of 98, Tollington Park, stated
that deceased was dead when he was summoned to attend him.
On making a post mortem examination, he found the whole of
the organs healthy, the death having resulted from failure of the
heart's action. The stomach and intestines were quite empty,
which was no doubt owing to the strong purgative powder
^liS'Srf^ef^ NOTABILU. 761
•Beview, Deo. 1, 1881.
which had been given. From what he had heard of the case, he
had come to the concloBion that death had been actually caused
by the strong pnrgatiye powder. He wished it to be distinctly
understood that, to give a child a strong opening powder on the
slightest appearance of sickness, was to place the life of that
child in great danger ; and the jury wotdd, of course, know that,
in the majority of instances, parents went to a druggist for a
powder. The coroner said that his experience had shown him
the truth of Mr. Brighouse's remarks, and he hoped the press
would make the case known. The jury returned a verdict that
the deceased died from the administration of a purgative powder,
and appealed to the members of the press to use their best
endeavours in bringing a knowledge of the dangers of such
powders to the public. The purgative powder is the pharma-
ceutist's panacea, and the apothecaries* cure-all. Although the
most common, it is probably the most dangerous, and the most
often abused weapon in the pharmacopoeia. Prescribing
druggists fly to it as their first implement, and most favourite
nostrum. How many has it not slain, and how many thousands
are yet doomed to die from " a simple purge" ? — British Medical
Journal,
CULTIVATINa SPONGES.
Messrs. McKesson & Bobbins, of New York, are now showing
in their office a sponge of fine texture and in every respect perfect,
measuring 7 inches by 8 inches, the history of the growth of
which is exactly known. This piece of sponge is one which has
been grown in Florida from a cutting about two inches in length
and of triangular shape, ''planted" only seven months previously.
It has not been previously supposed, we believe, that sponge
grew so rapidly.
The '' planting " was a rather curious process. From a parent
sponge were cut 24 of these triangular cuttings, and through
each a stick was thrust, and then stuck in the sand on Ihe
sponge-bar close to the shore. The whole process was conducted
under water, the sponge never having been lifted from its natural
element. The experiment was carried out by a gentieman
residing at Pine Key, Florida, who was interested in the sponge
business.
The natural propagation of sponge takes place at certain
seasons of the year, when yellow jelly-like grains sprout from
the substance which covers the skeleton of the sponge, projecting
more and more, and gradually increasing in size. Each germ
assumes an egg-like shape, and a large portion of its surface
becomes covered with cilia all endowed with the power of
vibration. These vibrating hairs act as oars to the littie germ
YoL 25, No. 12. 8 D
762 HOTABILIA. ''^gSJ^Sg^;^
to row it away as soon as it is fireed from its parent to some
other spot to which it may attach itself; and then, having
answered the purpose for which they were expressly dereloped,
the cilia fall off, leaving the genn gradually to develop ihe
peculiar form and qnaJities of the parent sponge. This
experiment at Pine Key now proves that the cultivation of the
sponge artificially is not only practicable, but that a " crop "
may, under favourable circumstances, be soured by this means
in a much shorter time than by awaiting the ordinary course of
nature. The experiments will doubtless be continued, and it wiU
not be long before ground will be staked for " sponge beds," as
it is for " oyster beds."
As the Mediterranean sponges are generally fished from deep
water, it is probable that the experiment could not be so easily
repeated there, but the result of the process in America will be
watched with much interest, especially as Florida sponge has of
late gone up considerably in value. — Chemist and Druggist.
INDIABUBBER GATHERING IN COLUMBIA.
Am interesting account is given of this process in a report just
issued by the United States Consul at Carthagena. When the
hunter has found a rubber tree, he first clears away a space from
the roots, and then moves on in search of others, returning to-
commence operations as soon as he has marked all the trees in.
vicinity. He first of all digs a hole in the ground hard by, and
then cuts in the tree a Y-shaped incision, wiQi a machete as high
as he can reach. The milk is caught as it exudes and flows into
the hole. As soon as the flow from the cuts has ceased, the-
tree is chopped down, and the trunk raised from the ground by
means of an improvised trestle. After placing large leaves to
catch the sap, gashes are cut throughout the entire length, and
the milk carefully collected. When it first exudes, the sap is of
the whiteness and consistence of cream, but it turns black on
exposure to the air. When the hole is filled with rubber it is
coagulated by adding hard soap, or the root of the mechvacan,
which have a most rapid action, and prevent the escape of the
water that is always present in the fresh sap. When coagulated
sufficiently, the rubber is carried on the backs of the hunters by
bark thongs to ihe banks of the river and floated down on rafts.
The annual destruction of rubber trees in Columbia is very greats
and the industry must soon disappear altogether, unless the
Government puts in force a law that already exists, which
compels the hunters to tap the trees without cutting them down.
If this law were strictly carried out there would be a good-
opening for commercial enterprise, for rubber trees will grow
^^^rr?Sf"' OBITUABT. 763
Beriew, Dec. 1, 1881.
from eight to 10 inches in diameter in three or four years from
seed. The trees require hnt little attention, and begin to yield
returns sooner than any other. Those that yield Ihe greatest
amount of mbber floniish on the banks of the Simn and Aslato
rivers. The yalne of the whole indiambber imported into the
States annually is abont $10,000 yOOO.-^Ktiowlec^e, Nov. 18th.
THE LONDON SCHOOL OF HOMOEOPATHY.
A MEETING of the Goyemors and Subscribers of this institution
will be held in the lecture room on Thursday, the 15th inst., at
three o'clock, for the purpose of revising the rules and regula-
tions by -which it has hitherto been directed.
THE BRITISH HOMGBOPATHIC SOCIETY*
The next meeting of this Society will be held this evening at
7 o'clock. At eight o'clock a paper will be read by Dr. Burnett
on The use of Argentum and its preparations in Gastric Affections,
OBITUARY.
T. H. TUDGE, M.D., M.R.C.S. Eng.
The following notice of the late Dr. Tudoe has been forwarded
to us by Dr. Kiddle, of Bristol : —
** Timothy Hale Tudge was bom of highly respectable parents
near Malvern, in 1822. Through family reverses, however, he
was deprived of the advantages of early education. Nevertheless
courage, perseverance, and a natural talent enabled him to
succeed well in life.
<* He became connected after a time with a hydropathic
establishment in Malvern. Here, under the superintendent-
physician, he had often the care of gentlemen of high culture and
attainments, and among them the late Lord Lytton. Frequently,
too, he had to travel with them. His kind, genial, animated
nature, and his macions and delightfidly happy turn for con-
versation, soon made him a general favourite with the patients,
who under the circumstances were usually very communicative
and liberal of advice. Hence he had ample, various, and valuable
opportunities for improvement, and of gaining useful information
and knowledge.
*' At lengUi one gentleman was so interested in him as to
insist upon his accompanying him to his residence, and ulti-
mately to induce him to remain some years with him as his
quasi-medical attendant. He soon came to be noted in the
8D-.2
764 OBITUABT. "^^JSrWJK"
Berieir, Dee. 1, 18B1.
neighbonrhood for his skill in hydropathy, whieh brought him
many patients ; and it was while praotising in this way among
them that he first was made acquainted with homoeopathy. A
friend interested in the system gave him a small book on the
subject, and some remedies, and entreated him to try them ;
which he did, and was at once stmok by their effects. The book
was then eagerly read, when his natorally astute mind canght at
the idea of anything approaching certainty in therapentics.
Convinced of its validity, he became £EU3cinated and delighted
with the wonderful law of similars. From that time he was,
throughout the remainder of his life, an ardent admirer and a
bold defender of the School of Hahnemann.
<* He now determined to study for the profession, and accord-
ingly informed his patron-patient, who rather than be deprived of
his services took up his winter residence in London. Entering
the Grosvenor School, where he took honours in anatomy and
physiology, he worked hard, and passed his final College in 1864.
** After taking a tour through France and Germany, he first
commenced practice in partnership with a gentleman at Leeds.
** In 1865, after passing an examination and producing an able
thesis in phthisis, he graduated M.D. of Pennsylvania.
*' He remained a short time only at Leeds, and then went to
Yeovil, where he quickly formed a large and respectable connec-
tion, and was extremely successful in practice. Notedly so when
some four years ago that town was severely visited with small-pox
— ^when, though he had a large number of patients, he never, if
called in &om the first, lost a case.
'* It is extremely difficult, especially in so brief a sketch, for a
dose friend to adequately and rightly estimate the character of
the late Dr. Tudge. He was no ordinary man. And had he
only taken some pains to make himself as efficient in writing as
he did in many other matters, he might undoubtedly have
wielded a wide empire over his fellows. He was essentially —
notwithstanding one or two minor prejudices — a large-minded and
large-hearted man. You had only to convince his intellect, or to
touch his heart, to enlist his full and strong sympathy in any
just cause. Possessed of much originality and force of character,
he thought and felt deeply upon all important subjects that came
under his notice. A brief period it may be, and the profession
may know how deeply he thought and felt, for instance, upon the
question of the medical education of the homoeopath in tbis
country. To understand something of the true metal of the
man, it was necessary only to do something by the way, say, of
running down a friend, or wilfully misrepresenting homoeopathy.
In an instant his crest rose, his bold, fine head swung back upon
his shoulders, his dark eyes flashed, when, in a voice tremulous
with emotion, he bore down upon his opponent with a very
SS^nSTiiSf*' 0ORBB8PONDBNOB. 786
Beriev, Deo. 1, 1881.
torrent of eloqoent inyective. Occftsions of this kind aroosed the
whole energy of his being; called forth the deep, poweifdlt
masculine qoalities of his mind ; while his immense fond of infor-
mation, his wide range of knowledge, his fertile and rich imagi-
nation, and hia warm, Idnd heart, were alike plainly and at once
discovered.
'* Professionally, he had a most hmnble estimate of his own
powers, and was never dogmatic, even to a junior. With a keen
insight into disease, and a rare grip of the Materia Medica, he
had all the gifts attaching to the tme physician. His aim was
always pure, disinterested, elevated, noble — ^without any respect
of persons, to cure and to relieve suffering humanity.
<' It was the knowledge of such fieicts as these, perhaps, that
made so many weep when on the 25th of September last he
succumbed to heart disease — a family complaint. Dr. Tudge
was married, but had no children. He leaves his widow and a
brother, as well as many friends, to deplore his loss."
CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMS, ESQ.
We regret to have to announce the sudden death, at a com*
paratively early age, of another colleague — Mr. Williams, of
Belfast. Mr. Williams was bom in 1885. His medical studies
were pursued at Qxiy*s hospital, and in 1860 he was admitted a
member of the Royal College of Surgeons, and he received the
license of the Apothecaries Company. About 1868 or 1869 he
commenced the study of homoeopathy, and in the latter year
succeeded Dr. Edward blake in his practice at Wolverhampton.
Here he remained until 1876, when he removed to Belfast.
HomoBopathy had few friends there at this time, but Mr. Williams
had succeeded in overcoming many difficulties, and laying the
foundation of a practice which gave promise of being of con-
siderable extent. For some three years he has had occasional
attacks of cystitis, which have caused him both suffering and
anxiety. Five days before his death he had to go late at night
some miles into the country to attend a midwifery case. Walking
home appeared to bring on an attack, when complete retention
occurred, followed by uremic poisoning.
CORRESPONDENCE.
TYPHOID FEVER AT MULLER'S ORPHANAGE.
To the Editors of the Monthly Honueop<Uhic Review,
Gentlemen, — ^I regret that I cannot redeem the promise yoa
Jdndly made on my behalf, in your last Journal, to write a paper
766 COBBEBPONDENCE, ^^fSSTwrn!
on typhoid fever, but gladly gire the results of two epidemics of
it at the Orphan Houses here.
The New Orphan Houses, more generally known as " Miiller's,"
are five in number, detached, and situated in a commanding^
position on the top of Ashley Hill, about two miles to the north-
east of Bristol, and, when built, were '* in the country," bat
now the town extends beyond them, though each house is
situated in a large space of its own ground. All five houses are-
substantially built, well lighted, and thoroughly ventilated.
Each has its own well of good water, and some of these give
an abundant supply at all times ; the bread is all baked in No. I
house. The milk is from one farm, but its channel of distribu-
tion is distinct for each house. Each house has firom 400 to
600 inmates, besides officials.
The position of the houses, the extreme cleanliness, the
thorough ventilation, the complete absence of all unnecessary
drapery, would lead one to expect a high standard of health ;
but this is folly compensated for in the feust that the children
are greatly predisposed to hereditary disease, especially struma,
or phthisis, or they have lost both parents, (and a very large
number of the children have lost both parents by phthisis),
which, we all know, teUs greatly against the patient in any
illness.
House No. 2, in which the epidemic of August last took
place, is occupied by 400 girls ; these are divided into three
sections. ** Infant wing," ** Girls' wing," and the " Domestic
Department," the last occupying the centre of the building, and
consisting of the older girls ; ihere is &ee intercommunication
between the different parts of the house, but the children do
not mix. The management is under one control for all the five
houses.
The support is from voluntary contributions, and unsolicited.
There is no collection, no list of donors published, no ordinary
incentives to get money, and thesd contributions come from all
parts of the world ; the institution is, in fact, a standing monu-
ment of a living faith in God and his promises. Into this part
I must not further enter, though much might be written thereon.
In the year 1875, there occurred here a sudden outbreak of
typhoid fever, confined to two houses, (Nos. 2 and 5) ; there
were over 500 cases, with a result of 18 deaths. They were
principally treated with baptisia in a low dilution, gelsenduin to
allay restlessness and irritation, and in the after treatment,
arsenicum.
The well-marked effect of baptina led me to regard it as &
great preventive to the exhaustion generally found during and.
after the course of the disease.
SSSt^DSTSS^ OORBESPONDENCB. 767
The cause of this attack was traceable to the children drinking
water from a brook near the orphan houses when out for their
usual country walk. Many were prostrated a few days after-
wards ; and ^e effects continued to show themselves for five or
six weeks, with the result I have described. During the recent
epidemic, which occurred during my absence, the cases were
treated by Mr. Salmon, who has charge of the health department,
and who adopted the same plan of treatment that proved so
beneficial in the former epidemic ; Dr. Nicholson, of Clifton,
attended for me when sent for during my absence. There were
101 cases all confined to No. 2 house, but strangely located as
to their distribution, an equal number of children being affected
in either wing, those in tiie middle or domestic portion of the
building escaping entirely ; this part is occupied by girls from
15 to 17 years old ; one wing by infants aged from a few months
to children of 10 years, and the other wing by girls from 10 to-
16 years old. Of the 101 cases all recovered, though in some
instances recovery was very tardy.
For this second epidemic no cause can be discovered, the
patients were all supplied from one common source with water,
milk, and bread and other articles of diet, all of which were care-
fully tested, and their purity ascertained, and the affected were
fed in common with the healthy and unaffected.
From my experience in the first epidemic in 1875, and the
results obtained in the last, I have no hesitation in strongly
urging on the attention of our body the desirability of the free
use of baptisia in typhoid fever. I believe in all cases it modifies
the severity of the disease, and in many shortens its duration.
The very interesting paper on this medicine by Dr. Dyce
Brown, in last months* EevteWf comes in very appropriately to the
subject in hand.
Doubtless typhoid fever is a disease one would gladly obliterate,,
still from a long course of observation I find that the results are
generally favourable to the patient. I believe it is a fact, and
think the experience of others will corroborate mine, that a large
proportion of the convalescents from typhoid fever become more
healthy and stronger than before, and I can point to many
instances where children have been very frail and delicate up to
the time of taking this fever, and after their recovery have
attained a much higher standard of health. I would even go
further, and say there are few who do not benefit by it. I put
it 2 per cent, risk of death on the one hand, to improved general
condition of health on the other.
I am, yours &c.;
ExTBUiiUS Williams, M.D.
Clifton, Nov. 18, 1881.
768 COBBESPOHBENTS.
Bavlev, Dee. 1,
NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS.
^% We eaumot umdertake to retrnn rtjeeUd wamcier^rff .
Commmiicatioiis, ^., have been reoeived from P. W. Sxtmoub, Esq.
London); Dr. Hatwabd and Mr. Blakb (Liveipool); Br. Bayxb,
{Brighton) ; Dr. ScBmEN (Dnblin) ; Dr. Wilzjamb (Clifton) ; Dr. Eiddlb
(Lympley Stoke) ; Dr. Hollamd and Ifr. Kobicaii (Bath) ; Dr. Baysbb
{Ganterboiy) ; Dn Gallowat (North SliialdB); Dr. KzimKDT (Blaak-
heath) ; J. M. Wtbom, Esq. (London) ; Dr. Pboll (Nioe) ^. ; Dr. £. IL
Madden (Biimingham) ; Dr. Bsadshaw (Tonbridge WeUs).
We are requested to state that there is at present a first-dass opening
for a bomoBopathio practitioner at Bombay, the present incnmbent haying
io leaTe on aoooont of his heslth. Particulars may be obtained from
Dr. £. M. Biadden, 14, Islington Boad, Birmingham.
Dr. Bbadshaw, late of Nottingham, has xemoTod to Holmrook,
Tmibridge Wells.
BOOKS RECEIVED.
The Guiding Sympionu of cut^ JSlaUria Medico. By G. Heiing, MJ).
ToL iii. Philadelphia.
The Homaopathie World.
The Chemist and Druggist.
The Students Journal.
The MontKLy Journal of Pharmacy.
The North American Journal of Homceopatky.
The Homaopathie Times. New Tozk.
The New England Medical Gazette.
The United States Medical Investigator.
The Medical Counsellor.
The American Homaopath.
The Medical Call.
The American Observer.
The Medical Advance.
Boericke and TafeVs Bulletin.
Bihliothtque Homaopathique.
Jtevue Homaopathique Beige.
AUgemeine Uom. Zeitung.
El CriUrio Medico.
Beforma Medico.
Boletino Clinico.
Bivista OnUopatica.
Papers, Dispensary Beports, and Books for Beriew io be sent to
Dr. Pope, 21, Henrietta Street, Cavendish Square, W., or to Dr. D. Dtob
Bbowk, 29, Seymour Street, Portman Sqnaze, W. AdTertisements and
Business C!ommmucations to be sent to Messrs. £. Gould A SoH»
^9, Moorgate Street, E.G.
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