".iT.T.Trrrr:*T^rTTT -ar^r
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
* *  .
FOUNDED 1836
WASHINGTON, D. C.
OPO  16—67244-1
^msiWH^^H^iHii 
 
 
ORATION,
ON THE
CAUSES OF THE MORTALITY AMONG STRANGERS,
DURING THE LATE
SUMMER and FALL.
PRONOUNCED BEFORE THE
GEORGIA  MEDICAL  SOCIETY,
AND CITIZENS OF SAVAN
ON
JANUARY 1st, 1820."
BEING THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOCIETY.
                        BY


     JACOB DE  LA MOTTA, M. D.

Fellow of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, of the University of tits
 State ofJVexv-York.......Member of the County Medical Society of-fCen*
   York.......Corresponding Member of t/ie Lyceum of JVatural His-
     tory, N. Y........Honorary Member of the Medico-Chirurgical
      Society of W". Y........Honorary  Member of the Philadel-
        phia Medical Society.......Member of the Linmean
          Society of Philadelphia.........Member of the
             Medical Society  of South-Carolina.
                     &c. &C. &c.
PRINTED BY  KAPPEL & BARTLET..........SAVANNAH. 
" »  '  "^ * % * %•■*   ■* V     **\ X
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<Omtim.
    YOU have assembled this day, Gentlemen, to unite in commemorat-
ing the Anniversary of the Georgia .Medical Society; and I appear, de-
signated the organ of that  association, to manifest an accordance  with
the usage of public institutions—that of expressing sentiments connected
with the  objects of their establishment.
    On the present occasion, you readily anticipate the purport of ouu
formation—the principal of our desiderata.  It is to perpetuate the mag-
nitude, enhance the advantages, and maintain the dignity of the profes-
sion of Medicine ; considered both as a science and an art; and, in which,
classic learning—the beauties of literature—and the philosophy of na-
ture, are intimately blended.  Here, in doing justice to the  theme  of a
discourse, the glow of embarrassment betrays my deficiency;—here con-
scious inadequacy urges me  to shrink from the undertaking;  here, you
will readily perceive the paucity of those acquirements, requisite to eli-
cit attention,  or interest your feelings.—Prepared by this candid decla-
ration, your indulgence you cannot withhold.
    The vocation of Medicine, is paramount to all others.—Great vener-
ation was paid its illustrious cultivators in days of Yore ;  and by reverting
to the pages of antiquity, we shall find they were  considered as  descen-
dants of the Gods.   Tracing the respect observed to those who main-
tained elevated stations in the medical world, down to the present peri-
o'd, many instances are presented for our contemplation. V.'e  are told,
Athens conferred divine honors on Hippocrates.  Lydcn was illuminated,
and all the bells of the churches chimed on the recovery of Dr. Boer-
haave, from a violent attack of  disease.  Verona erected a statute to
Heinsius, in honor of the remedy he  discovered, found beneficial in re-
moving a pestilential fever, in that city.  Europe, paid her tribute to the
medical worthies, who graced her annals.  The means of purifying con-
taminated air,  was rewarded by a donation  to Carmicheal Smith.   And
what shall we say of Guiton de Morveau ? his merits  deserved a monu
ment, raised in the gratitude of millions, to be removed only with time
Whilst we revere the virtues and talents of those, who have appeared for
ages past conspicuous in other climes and in foreign countries, let us nol
forget those of our own times. Let us not omit to say of Rush, that Penn-
sylvania mourned his loss—nay, the United States, attested his worth, by
public demonstrations of deep regret.  Georgia, was once prepared  with
her offering, for the shrine of Medical Science.  Grimes, in the zenith of
his usefulness, shone with resplendant brilliancy !
   Medicine, considered both as a science and an art, is bounded only by
the multitudinous operations of nature.  How  important its pursuits P
How pre-eminent its attributes ?  In utility, it rises superior to the blan-
d'shments of fortune ;  for it embraces,  Charity, Benevolence and Hu-
manity.  Boundless are the limits prescribed to its powers.  It knows no
control;  it is circumvented only, by ignorance and barbarism.   In its at-
tainment, rugged are the paths we have to traverse ;  almost insurmount-
able are the eminences, that present and must be reached, ere we can ob-
tain superiority ; with unremitting assiduity  must our labors be  guided,
to possess the necessary qualifications for judicious  practitioners.   To
what an e\tent are we led !  even in the arcana of nature, and there to
scrutinize her secret operations.
    Such then, are the diversified and multifarious objects embraced in
this profession, that 1 feci as  it were launched on the troubled ocean cf
                             A
-vVV, / <?/ 
4'
 indecision, hesitating at what course to steer—undecided, what port xo
 make.  Again I perceive the ample field presented for -mv observation
 The wide range occupied by the  science of medicine.  Numerous  are
 the subjects inseparably connected with it, and others to which it i» near-
 ly allied.   Like the ardent Botanist, surrounded by the beauties of  the
 vegetable kingdom, he admires the varied hues nature invests this part of
 creation, pants to investigate every new object, but  is restrained fey ap-
 prehension', that a rude touch may tarnish and disfigure, or render unin-
 teresting,  what was intended should be skillfully handled.  While con-
 templating so important a pursuit, it may be compared to the sturdy oak,
 its stem is majestic—its branches and fructification, umbrageous  and  nu-
 tricious—its foiliage beautifying and ornamental, worthy the poet's fimcv,
 the painter's  pencil.  In utility, co-existent with its  germination—co-
 extensive with its growth.  Or viewed as having an influence  in the mor-
 al world, its benefits are of heavenly tendency. The  variety afforded
 in the prosecution of this science, and its correlative branches,presents to
 the imagination traits of  magnitude and admiration; and in consider-
 ing a subject  from the many that offers, I am at a loss what to select.—
 While eager  to adopt one, its abstruceness  forbids in\ estigation—while
 disposed to  take another, insufficiency to do it justice, deters further
 consideration.  The several points, appertaining and approximating to
 the doctrine and character of disease, have been descanted on with a  ma-
 turity of intellect, that leaves nothing to discover, or novelty to expect.
 Matters of a local nature, have already  been presented to your observa-
 tion.  The subject  of Fever has been elaborately discussed.   The cau-
 ses of our Endemial, and termed by some Epidemic, have been  thread-
 bare.  The treatment still  remains without the specific ; but  may we
 hope, this deprivation will not be lasting-; for with the  industry and re-
 search already manifested by some of our medical brethren, on this inter-
 esting and important topic ; new light has been shed, to guide the perse-
 vering speculist in the attainment of- truth.  The accumulating rays will
 be soon concentrated, that shall at once disclose the means of subduing
 the formidable hydra—of prostrating the Pithon of our marshes.
    It may be expected from me this day, that I  should advert in this ad-
 dress, to the peculiar character and grade of our fever.., that prevailed
 with unrelenting wrath, and dreadful havoc,  during the  late fall months ;
 and thatmowed down with one common scythe, the indigenous as well as
the exotic—that consigned to the dreary reeepticles of earth, the native,
resident and stranger.  Here let me pause ! the mortality was decidedly
more prevalent among strangers.  Yes, the  hapless emigrant—the men-
dicant alien, groaning under penury and want—severing the shackles af
 a ruthless despot—abhoring oppression and the  fangs of degradation-
 fled  to our shores—this  asylum from tyranny and odious persecution.—
Indeed it has  been a fatal asylum!  The  cold earth, soon received their
lifeless frames!!!
    I should readily comply, with what on similar occasions has received
the sanction of custom; but I have nothing novel to advance, or improve-
 ment to suggest.  You arc all familiarised to the type of our Fever; a re-
capitulation of a subject so trite, would not repay yon for the small portion
 of attention you may this day honor me with.   Conceiving there are inci-
 dents of vital  consequence,  inseparable with the successful treatment of
disease, the preservation of health, and the prolongation of life  ; that  are
blended with  the propagation,  duration and termination of our endemic.
fevers ; 1 trust what I have selected to form the subject  matter of this
address, will not be  considered irrelavant to our prosperitv—uninterest-
ing for consideration—undeserving vour candor—or unworthv observa-
tion.  Impressed with the strength of facts, hastilv collected; I shall now
proceed to speak of the agents that influenced the fatality of our late  fe-
vers, and the  causes of the great mortality among strangers.  The limits 
3
 prescribed by your indulgence in the occupancy of time, will naLpermu
 me to amplify on each point; I shall briefly touch on what I consider the
 most forcible.
     All nature proclaims aloud, by the economy of perpetuation ;  and
 more especially the animal and vegetable creation ; that atmospheric air,
 or that invisible, subtle, elastic fluid, wliich pervades the perceptible and
 imperceptible cavities of all bodies, that occupies  interminable space,
 and forms a component and constituent principle of many phenotnina—
 so variously modified and combined, as to be omnipresent—is indispen-
 sably necessary to the support of vitality.  That its invigorating and s n- .
 ative properties, are peculiarly dependent on its purity. That if rcndci < <i
 contaminated, it loses its salutary influence, and consequently is incapa-
 ble and inefficient to distribute those beneficial effects  intended should
 be afforded, in its uncontaminated state.  This essential attribute of na-
 ture, this law in physics, has received the sanction  of chemical philoso-
 phy.  Let us then enquire, how f$r a vitiated state  of this ethA-ial com-
 pound, formerly considered an element, is capable of affecting the animal
 economy.
     The situation of our city; its remoteness from uncombined sea air; its
 peculiar soil, partly alluvial; circumjacent country, low, marshy, and ex-
 tremely porous; its vegetable productions, of  luxuriant growth, and ac-
 tive properties ; the innumerable animalcules and infusory animals ; the
 countless numbers of the insect tribe, that generate, die, and are then re-
 duced by spontaneous and regular decomposition ;  and that constantly
 eliminate deliterious  gases—all these separately and conjointly  acting in
 a greater or lesser degree, tend perpetually to vitiate the air, and diffuse
 through it those noxious properties, destructive to animal life ; and wliich
 being constantly reproduced by like causes,  consequently and irrefragi-
 bly render our atmosphere less pure, than the circumambient air of ot iter
 places, differently encumbered and surrounded.  These impurities being
 inhaled, convey most incidiously those destructive agents, that pervading
 the system, produce derangement of the natural, functions,  subvert "lie
 operations of nature, and throw the whole frame into disorder and disor-
 ganization.  The doctrines of chemical philosophy, have clearly defined
 the proportion of principles, composing our chief support, without which
 animation would be suspended,  and all nature would droop and decay.
 But this subtle, invisible material that we necessarily respire, and that acts
 as fuel to support the flame of life, is capable of being rendered unfit for
 the complete and perfect operations of the system,  and by uniting with,
 or being combined with deleterious gases and foreign bodies, may be in-
 spired ; and acting by slow progression, contaminate ilie fluids and solids,
 and ultimately destroy that equilibrium between the  various  and compli-
 cated offices, as to derange the intention, and destroy the order of organ-
 ic functions, thereby producing extinction of the  vital spark.   It is on
 this principle alone we  can reason on the  changes  induced, when  the
 system is exposed to causes capable of engendering disease ;  and it is
 from this disorganization from violent causes, we  are to account for the
 occurrence of fevers.
     The Coan sage, gave to the  world an axiom in phylosophy, that  nei-
 thertime, orthe piercing sag-xify of research, have attempted to confute.
 He recorded it as an aphorism, " that the good  or bad  disposition of air
 does not depend solely on the difference of climate, but on the situation
 of every place in particular," and common observat'on so far corrr 'jenitcs
 this opinion, that the atmosphere is variously modified with regard to pu-
rity, according to the sources and quantum of impure gase-, that con-
 stantly tend to vitiate it ; and such is the peculiar constitution of atmos-
 phere, as being capable  of receiving various combinations, that there will
 appear a difference in constituent principles, within short distances.   Na-
 turalists have repeatedly attested this fact, and  the senses of all animals 
6
incontegtibly show it; for we are very sensible to the impression of im-
pureftp, and by removing out of its sphere of action, or at a short space
%vher6 it is less impregnated, we are at once convinced of the difference.
Analysis of atmospheric air within inconsiderate distances, or in different
apartments, has repeatedly evidenced this assertion, and it is as cogniza-
ble to our  senses as various  temperatures.   This admitted, will show,
that under particular causes, our city  is differently supplied with those
extraneous materials, that contaminate the air, and consequently render a
difference of location, either more or less injurious to those subjected to
its influence.  These ideas premised in relation to what has been termed
accustomed and unaccustomed impressions,  will account for the great
susceptibility of the human system to be effected, by whatever deranges
the vital, and that simultaneously tmpaircs the natural  functions,  or in
other words, certain animals in particular will be more sensible to the
change from a rarified to a dense atmosphere, from pure to impure air;
andthat,a derangement of the operations of nature, will evidently  ensue
to such an  alienation of residence,*»s may subject mankind to those a-
gents, that invariably either directly or indirectly, induce irregular action
and consequent disease.  It is only on this ground, and by assuming these
positions, fairly arising from  legitimate deductions, and receiving the
countenance, authority and attestation of the Litterati on this subject, in
all ages and in all countries : that we  can rationally infer, the great dis-
similarity in different constitutions, independant of idiosincraces or tem-
peraments, that render strangers so liable to contract the diseases pecu-
liar to our climate, and that occasion this hostile disposition to health, at-
tributable only to the peculiar state or constitution of the atmosphere.
This subject, early called the attention of individuals, who  have devoted
much time and attention to investigations appertaining to  the causes of
the great disposition in certain cases to disease and death.  The fruits of
their labours,  have been collected and embodied, and the  corroboration
of sentiment in respect to the changes produced, has received universal
sanction.   To enter more fully on the grounds of explanation, would be
a useless amplification*.   The evidences rest with  the  most indifferent
observer.  The truth has never been questioned or denied;  and all will
agree,  that one of the agents that favor the mortality among strangers, is
their liableness to be effected by a change of situation, and the manner
this is induced, may be rationally explained on the principle of a peculiar
septon, or specific gaseous poison, being received in the system,  either
through the lung's or otherwise, pervading every vessel  and fibre, vitia-
ting the fluids, occasioning a correspondent  vitiation of the  solids ; and
like a violent and destructive poison, penetrates every avenue that leads
to the seat of life, deranging the  powers of respiration, and thereby pro-
duce those obstructions to the regular operations, as to destroy the ma-
chinery of animated nature, and  prostrating  the whole fabric, it  soon
crumbles into dust.
   That Savannah should be more or less subject to the production of
fevers, than any other place in the United States, are opinions that can
never be supported by correct reasoning or sound principles ; and let
me here state, that low marshy situations, or a residence in the vicinage
of such places, are not exclusively exposed to the visitation of bilious and
pestilential diseases; we have the evidence of Cleghorn, who asserts that
Minorca is far from being a marshy country, nay,  on the contrary', it is
very dry.  Doctor Lind, advances a similar opinion : " that noxious  va-
pours aris'ng from the earth, are for the most part to be blamed, even in
c< ■•r.tries seemingly dry, and where violent rains are not frequent."  He
th'iVicsthe  air may load  itself with putrid exhalations from the ground
and that except in the burning desarts of Arabia or Africa, people are no
wh.r-exempt from fevers.  We must infer from what has been said  on
tliis subject, independant of locality, and  the evidences of the  causes 
                                r

which produce disease, that the atmosphere is capable of being altered!,
at particular seasons, and that woody or marshy lands  in warm countries,
are pernicious to the health of Europeans, and especially those who have
been accustomed to a cold region.  This unfriendly effect, is dependent
on the peculiarity  of constitution of  our  atmosphere ;  and as long as
this exists, so long will  it constitute a material agent,  in the causes of
mortality among strangers.
  The condition of our atmosphere at particular seasons, is very much
subject to certain alterations, resulting from a greater or lesser supply of
those materials, that make it innoxious or  injurious.  If the exhalations
from the earth,  and decomposed animal and vegetable matters, are less
abundant at one period than another, we are t6 look  for an atmosphere
more or less surcharged with those offensive ingredients that enter the
system ; pass through every vascular ramification, and  occasion that de-
rangement which  constitute  disease.   Our enquiries must  lead to the
origin and production of these pestiferous particles ;  and here  we must
revert to what is familiar to ever) one ; I mean heat and moisture, those
essential agents in producing putrefaction, and a consequent elimination
of those vapours, so prejudicial when respired.  A succession of showers
or an abundant fall of rain, occasioning more moisture  than is required for
vegetation,  alters the texture of plants, or creates that change in their
physiology, as to render them more readily influenced by heat, which
destroying their vitality, reduces them to their constituent principles;
which operation evolves a variety of gases, whose specific gravity being
less than atmospheric air, they constantly rise, and being aided by calor-
ic, are suspended to a certain height, are wafted by the  current air in all
directions, and exercise their baneful influence over every thing submit-
ted to their sphere of action.  When the quantum of vapour is less, it of
course disposes the atmosphere to a less deterioration, and renders it
comparatively less injurious.   It is then from the previous fall of rain, and
subsequent heat, we may invariably  expect, that alteration in our atmos-
phere, which is the result of exuberant humidity and accumulated exha-
lations from low marshy soils, covered with various plants, and which we
may from fair deductions enumerate as fruitful causes or agents in govern-
ing the generation  and fatality of the fever  cases.  The occurrence of
fever, mav be regulated, as respects its violence, by the means that shall
be judiciously employed to suppress or lessen the sources of its produc-
tion.  The medical topography of our city,  defines these receptacles or
labaratories of Miasmata,  that have become formidable obstacles to the
health and prosperity of this habitable portion of our state.  An annoy-
ance so grievous has called forth such measures, as were intended, should
stifle this enemy,  or at least unarm it of much of its havoc and desolation.
Labour and attention have  not  been wanting to this end—means have
been partially adopted.  The pursuit is worthy the effort   It is laudable
—humane.   But whether it will have a beneficial result, time must devel-
ope.  Its usefulness is worthy the trial.   None can  be inimical to Dry
  Culture.  And while we see the most sanguine expectations expressed
 by one party, in charity to those whom it is said ungenerously, constitute
 an opposite; if their expectations have been less ardent, at  least  let us
 say, dry culture has had their good wishes, and their pecuniary aid has
 not been wanting to further the object.
     While we direct the excursive eye remotely for the sources of pesti-
 lence, let us npt overlook near points.  It has been conceded by the most
 sceptical on this subject, that to the constitution of the atmosphere, is to
 be attributed the infrequency of fevers.  Instead of looking abroad for
 the spring of this annoyance; let us look at home.
      Among the many situations, from which arise the materia; tnorbi that
 infest our atmosphere ; the condition of our streets and lanes present ob-
 jects that cannot receive  the countenance of cold indifference.  We 
b
must view them particularly as sources  of those injurious materials, that
.assist in altering the constitution  of our atmosphere.  Need we authori-
ties to substantiate our position, none others can be desired, deserving of*
greater respect, than those pfthe immortal Linnaus.  It was his stupen-
dous mind that first suggested the fact that sindy soils of themselves, in-
dependent of their aptitude to cover and secrete putrid animal and vege-
table substances ; would be sufficient to  explain the reason, why they
dispose the atmosphere  to  become deteriorated.   The health of  Phila-
delphia  for many years, was attributed to  the  paved  streets,  and
the excellent police regulations, that made it obligatory, continually
to keep them clean, as well as the gutters, by which means the collec-
tion of impure articles, was prevented.  Our situation is different, our
streets dissimilarly arranged.  We have abundant sources of pestiferous
vapours, they have but few.   However disposed our location may be to
keep alive the embers of disease, instead  of fanning them into  a flame,
our exertions should  be directed to their  extinguishment.  This can
only be done by the proper enforcement of such restrictions, as shall ob-
viate all these inconveniences.  Traverse  our lanes during the hot sea-
sons, and you will soon be made sensible of the  offensive effluvia arising
from the offals of the kitchen,  consisting of putrid fish, and decomposed
animal and vegetable substances, that are constantly thrown out after
tlie hours prescribed for removing such filth.   Scarce a  public  street is
exempt from this detestable practice; thus loading the air with offending
matterSjthat tend to po!lute,what would become less so,from other causes.
And let me not be considered as overstraining the point, when  I ad-
vance,  that the diffusion of such ingredients, has no inconsiderable effect
in altering the state of the  atmosphere ; which aggravating our fevers,
may be ranked among the causes of mortality;   An  additional subject in-
timately blended,is the emanations from stables, the dirt of which has been
repeate 'Jy suffered to accumulate and remain in reservors, to be remov-
ed at convenient times ;  which receptacles, may be compared to  labo-
ratories for preparing pestilential gases, when the doors are unhinged, the
suffocating fumes and  injurious effects, cannot be  suppressed.   These
may be considered by many of minor importance.   They are in my  es-
timation of much  magnitude in determining atmospheric impurity ; and
notwithstanding the  judicious arrangement of removing  the trash by
scavengers, and the inspection of lots, still during the intervals of time
this duty is performed, certain  description of our inhabitants are regard-
less of cleanliness, and  seldom think of making  a proper distributionj
till they  expect an examination, which being  communicated by  previ-
ous publication, they in order to elude a fine, are but for a  short time at-
tentive to the ordinance.  The visits of the inspector being  once in a
month, apprises them of what  should never be lost  sight of;  were  his
calls unexpected, the lots would be kept in constant preparation ;  under
existing regulations, it is tantamount to a superfluous office.   It must
be admitted, that the practice of constantly throwing offensive materials
within the enclosure of dwellings, and also  in our  streets  and  lanes,
which  generally prevails at all hours of day and night, must, by diffusing
in the  atmosphere mephetic particles, add contamination, to what has
been  made partly vitiated from other sources,  and undoubted!}'  induce
the tendency to disease  and mortality.
   Pursuing this subject still further in relationto the causes of mortality.
observation points to the condition and uncleanliness of many boarding
houses and public taverns, among the ordinary classes of this communi-
ty ; where a regard to comfort and health, is lost in temporary gratifica-
tions.  The nocturnal revelry collects together a  horde of depraved be-
ings, whom after excessive indulgencies in innebriation and  riot,  throw
themselves promiscuously in a room, where the proprietor huddles ma-
ny beds, and you would suppose his mansion was the  hold of a ship, 
9
Vhere men are stowed together, as merchandise, in  unventilated small
apartments, around wliich is constantly created an artificial atmosphere,
the corruption of which, is kept up, by expirable air of human creatures,
and  the emanations of foul materials, that like the Grotto-del-cannn, who-
ever  inhales the noxious vapour, is sure to be prostrated, but, to suffer
the agonies of a malignant fever.
   Situated as this city is,  subjected to an increasing population of stran-
gers, and where boarding houses are in great demand by the lower or-
ders in society ; it would be attended with beneficial results, for  public
authority to invest an individual with  powers to visit such places, and
enforce a proper regard to cleanliness, that comports with health, and
the suppression  of disease.   If there be  any  within the reach  of my
voice, who will not unite their assent, that the increasing mortality  a-
mong strangers, may be attributable to the condition of certain dwellings,
let them no longer doubt; many have been the facts to substantiate the
assertion.  It is perfectly consistent with  this part of our subject, and
while speaking of atmospheric ascendency, in favoring the mortality of
our fevers, to draw a comparative view betwreen the relative proportion
of health and  disease amongst natives and strangers.  This is done to
show, that if strangers are more sensitive to the impression of our atmos-
phere than natives ;  the latter are not excluded  from its baneful influ-
ence, and that they  are exposed to the same causes, aud have suffered
from similar effects.                 i
    The idea  of graduating the quantum  of health and disease  during
pur sickly season, according to the mortality among residents and natives,
is as ridiculous as irrational, as subversive of medical principles, as preg-
nant with evil consequences.  If temperament—peculiarity of circum-
ambient air—habit from particular  vocations—but more especially the
repetition of certain impressions on the nervous system ;  are no exemp-
tion from the effects produced in the constitution of those unaccustomed
and estranged to certain vicissitudes ; wdiat situation in our southern
hemisphere, would be free from the ravages of disease ?  What individ-
ual could escape the  assaults  of those maladies  incidental to warm cli-
mates ?  No place would become  habitable under a torrid region—no
tropical clime would be inviting to emigration ; terror and dismay would
seize  the minds of those, who from their inability to remove, and pecu-
niary circumstances, would be  compelled to remain in this or that section
of our country,  during a season, unfriendly to the  health of every one,
and where disease and in many instances death,  may be  the inevitable
result.
    Notwithstanding  this enumeration of what  may be termed climati.
zed prerequisites, such is the power and  control of heat and its con-
comitants in generating bilious fevers, that natives and residents are not
excluded from that peculiar character of disease,  that under more aggra.
vated and malignant features, attack strangers.   I have more than once
lamented, that  an opinion has been advanced,  and suffered to roam
abroad in favor of the healthfulness of this city,  on the belief that the
mortality was almost exclusively  confined  to strangers,  and that our
inhabitants have seldom been victims of, or  labored under the endemial
fever.  This sentiment, promulged under  whatever circumstances, is
egregiously erroneous.  Where the type of disease has been more mild
in some  cases, it has  been very violent in others.  But I would ask the
advocates of a contrary belief, whether endemial  or epidemic fevers, oc-
curring in any of the southern states,have not been more prevalent  among
those unaccustomed to the  climate and atmosphere,  and whether the
mortality has  not been more confined to them; and how is this to be
accounted for ?—On the principles just recited,  and not to the total or
partial exemption of fever,  in natives and  residents.   This liableness in
both to be affected by fever, will more glaringly  appear, by considering
the absence  of fever/and the violence of its accession during that season,
when the usual causes of its generation either do not e.vist,  or exist i::
          B 
to
t n-ioderate degree.   Surely if strangers are exposed to the invasion of
fever, arising from a change of climate alone, they would be as suscepti-
ble of its attacks, when the causes are absent;  as when the semina of
disease arc floating in our atmosphere.
    It must anpear obvious to the most unlettered mind, and I advance
it on the  authority of almost every medical writer on  tropical diseases,
that the standard production of fever, must be established according to
the existence of the causes  generally acknowledged to generate it, and
not to the  greater or lesser fatality among strangers than  natives.   We
find, that when the agents that  favor the appearance  of our fever are
more abundant during one season than another; we  see more disease
among foreigners, but residents  and natives are not exempt.   By refer-
jng to the bills of mortality  in  former  years,  we shall note,  that  the
natives formed no small proportion of the  number of cases that termi-
nated in death.  Much could be urged against the fallacy of that reason-
ing, and in opposition to  the trite common  place observation,  th't  our
city has been, during  our last  summer and fall, decidedly healthFul  ;
because few cases of death  have occurred among the natives.  From
the nature and constitution  of  our atmosphere, it  has been conceded,
that the people from the north, are more disposed to be  affected by it,
at that season of the year when  bilious complaints are wont to be present
among us,  than that portion of the inhabitants of the south, who are
more habituated to this affection, and accustomed to inhale a vitiated air.
This I readily admit, and it may account for the yellow fever being more
predominant among the residents of the north, than those of the south;
because, independent of their being sooner affected by impure air, we
know that crowded apartments, or confined residence  in parts of a town
thickly inhabited, where there  is little  or no free circulation of air ; are
observed to be  the  most frequent places where malignant fevers  first
generate.   This is particularly  applicable to  situations in our northern
cities, adjacent to docks and other receptacles for filth, where the yellow
 or malignant fever of cold climates, first prevails.   Comparing then the
state of our atmosphere, with that of other places,  rendered impure,;  I
cannot subscribe to the opinion, that our natives are excluded from  high
 grades of  bilious fever, or that the  paucity of such cases among them,
 is a true criterion of the health of our city.
   Prom what 1 have briefly stated it must appear in the most glaring light,
 that a peculiar state of our  atmosphere at certain seasons, is inimical to
 health, and acting with more force on strangers, from their aptitude to
 disease, occasion fevers of  the most aggravated  type, that frequently
 baffles the skill and vigilance of medical aid, to avert from the iron grasrr
  of death.   Let it not be understood we overlook the predominance of
  foyer among  natives, because the mortality has been less with them.  I
 Assert unequivocally, that in estimating the amount of disease that at-
  tacked natives, residents, and strangers ;  we shall find on due consider-
  ation, a relative proportion ; and that, had the same circumstances pre-
  vailed with strangers, their  chance of recovery would have been as great.
     Here suffer me to observe, I am aware of the  diversity of sentiment
  on this subject; I am aware of the opposition I shall meet with, from
  some of my medical brethren  : but in stating it has been sickly among
  natives and residents, I am supported by the number of  cases that oc-
  curred among natives and residents, and which 1 shall enumerate.   In
  this I trust, I am  sanctioned by  medical  opinions, matured  by the
  best experience and nicest observation.   From the time of the promul-
  gation of our reports, to their suppression, a period of five months; we
  have had,  according to the reports of the committee appointed by the
  Medical Society, (in a population amounting to upwards of four thousand
  white inhabitant) seven hundred and thirty two cases of Billious, Remit-
  tent, and Intermittent fevers.   Of this number from 2'5 to 250 have
  terminated in death.  In June  and July, 70 cases were  registered ; 16 oc-
   ti.rred in the centre—of the whole number 13 terminated in death. No 
II
 notice  was taken of the number of  cases, among natives,  residents oTr
 strangers.  In August we had 117 cases of fever  if een deaths—twenty
 three of the 117 occurred in the centre of the c ..v. No distinguishing-
 line between natives, residents  or strangers, who  sickened or died.  In
 September, two hundred and fifty  one are reported—forty-six deaths-r
 twenty-one are cases recorded as originating in the centre of the city.
 In this month, we have a record  of seventy-four residents and natives~
 one hundred and seventy-two strangers, who were attacked with fever.
 Showing the relative number, it appears then, in support of the assertion,
 when comparing the number of sick among residents, natives and stran-
 gers, that above one third and nearly half of the former, constituted the
 statement of this month.  In October, we had two hundred and ninety-
 four cases—sixty central, or in the city^—of the whole number, one hun-
 dred and fifty-one deaths—one  hundred among strangers.  From this
 account we must infer, that fifty one were natives and residents, making
 one third who suffered from the mortality.  Will any man in his proper
 senses,  now declare, it was healthy among residents and natives ?  But the
 report  for this  month, enumerates the cases  thus  : one  hundred and
 forty-two strajigers—nine residents—forty natives of the north—sixty-sis
 Irish—thirty-four foreigners. It would appear from this latter statement,
 which so far corresponds with the number of deaths among foreigners,
 (and indeed no other conclusion can be drawn,) that it was comparatively
 unhealthy among residents at least, and that fifty-one deaths must have
 been among natives and residents, or residents who have been climatized
 by a residence amongst us, of at least three years.
     From this statement, it is obvious, that our inhabitants suffered in
 proportion to their numbers, and more especially from the causes of
 disease.  Our reports recognized the great disparity between the deaths
 in natives, residents and strangers, and  not the number of recoveries, by
 which we can only arrive at any degree of precision; and if these are not
 to be considered, what  shall we say of the various cures ? Are we. to
 yield nothing to  the talents of those, who with lynx's eyes, watched the
 progress and pursued with alacrity  the meanderings and intricacies of an
 incidious epidemic ?
     After this plain narration of facts submitted to the notice of the
 discriminating, let us  not boast of the health of our city during the late
 season.   It is due  to  candor, to propriety, and to  that liberahty which
 should pervade every state in the union ; to declare, unshackled by doubt,
 unencumbered by partiality ;  that comparing the bills  of  mortality
 published in Charleston,  with  those  of our city, and  considering the
 relative  proportion of the population of each place, we have not enjoyed
 more health, nor have our non-residents suffered less during the last fall.
 Let this be submitted to the test of truth,  and should the attestation of
 the reverse be found to prevail,  may  lacerating obloquy rest on those,
 who should utter this opinion.
    We must now direct our attention to the consideration of other con-
 spicuous agents, that aided the mortality.
    Many have sunk beneath the weight of disease,  who, by timely as-
 sistance, may have been propt up amidst the  accumulation of symptoms,
 that with hurried and unabated violence, terminated the  closing scene of
 life.   Such cases may be attributed  to a variety of circumstances.  The
 most prominent was the delay and neglect to apply in due time for Med-
 ical aid.  Such has been the indifference to timely relief, and such the
 inflexible stubbornness and consummate ignorance  among attendance ;
 that the propitious opportunity has been lost, the efficient moment suf-
fered to pass, because  the unfortunate  sufferer evinced appearances of
recovery.  Some sudden change  unhappily construed into favorable
 symptoms, has eluded the watchful care  of friends ;  and  the  speedy
 approaching moment of dissolution has lulled by the most specious pre-
 cursors,  all apprehension of unrecalled fatality.  Alas, how deceptive!
 but hot  more so to the attendants, than  to the inexperienced physician 
12
  who confiding in the statements of his patients, and those about them,
  would, if not possessed of the keenest discrimination, directed to every
  function and to every feature ; nay, if all his senses were not immediately
  stunmoned into requisition, would suffer his misguided judgement to pay
  the forfeit of his ignorance.   The aspect of many cases, were  delusive
  indeed.  Often  have I  seen morbid action, transcending sensation.—
  Often have T noticed the operations of the  mind, seemingly to progress
  without obstruction.  Often have I observed reason with all the majesty
  of pre-eminence, assuming her accustomed  empire.   Often have I be-
  Jield the animal functions performed with that stability, indicating per-
  fect health.  And you may have seen, to use the words of a conspicuous
 character in the  medical world, patients,  a few hours, or a few  minutes
 previous to dissolution, conversing and walking, as if tumultuous disease
 had become suddenly  quiescent,  and nature  again pursued her labors.
 But on feeling for the pulse at the usual place, it is  absent, or if present
 scarcely perceptible.  The clay cold surface—anxious  look—increasing
 restlessness—hurried respiration—are the sure harbingers of the dread-
 lid catastrophe.   Then, and not till then, does insidious disease flash on
 the mind with all its terrors—then reflection  and harrassing self rebuk-
 ings  occupy but to torment the mind—then are a thousand  imaginary
 circumstances presented to those, who are left to appease their grief, in
 bitter lamentations.   And here the  well known postulate in medicine
 is sadly verified, " but for timely aid, thousands perish of medicable
 wounds."   Were facts  wanted in  corroboration of the  opinions advan-
 ced, on the delusion of disease, and neglect to resort to medical aid I
 should  not be at a loss to cite many.  I "speak from credible  authority,
 that instances of death, were noticed, just before and vervrecent aftersonie
 patients were received in  our public hospitals.  It seemed as if  fate or-
 dained, they should be carried there, to breathe their last ; arresting
 from the attending physicians, the power of bestowing relief.
   Pursuing this subject still further, in connection with the causes of mor-
 tality, the want of those requisites to render patients  comfortable, and
 the deficiency of proper nourishment, and change of clothing, almost in-
 dispensable  in the cure of disease ;  have retarded the sannative  powers
 of medicine, and thereby deprived the system of that support,  so essen-
 tial to its recovery.   Many cases in certain situations have been aggra-
 vated for the want of proper adjustment and removal of bed clothing, and
 the necessary  supply of such diet, as would comport with the nature of
 the complaint  and the physicians judgment.  Altho' innumerable  have
 been the instances of public as well as private charity,  extended to the
 alleviation of misery, and of affording comfort to the sick ; and notwith-
 standing the abundant provision made by public  donation.—Yet  from a
 variety of incidents,  that  attention could not be confined, that  the hand
 of friendship, and the sympathies'of relationship, could  bestow.  And
 here I must be suffered to digress, and award my humble tribute for be-
 nevolent deeds.   The .Mayor and Aldermen of our  city justly  merit.
 Such regulations were adopted, and such  appropriations made, as ameli-
 orated m a great measure the sufferings, and somewhat lessened the mor-
 tality m strangers.   They evinced that  philanthropic disposition, char-
 acteristic or their public usefidneSs and private  worth ;  and must havo
 afforded soothing consolation to the suffering mendicant; that  their lot
 had placed them, (whilst laboring under accumulated ills) among- those
who had learnt "to feel for others woes."  How melancholy the  reflec-
tion that independent of all the care extended, such was  the formidable
 invasion of fever, that few remain to boast  of their escape, from the grasp

  A dereliction to established  principles in the  treatment of diseases
 and non-complyance with the prescriptions and directions of Physicians •
 may be ranked among the causes that favoured the mortality.   A dread
of too much effect and violence in the operation of medicine—its untime-
ly administration—the giving of improper nourishment—resorting to tuv.- 
13
applied applications—harsh remedies—uneooth and harassing manage*
ment, as regards removing the sick—an assumption of power, and re»
sponsibilitv, predicated on previous conduct, that happily terminated—.
the withholding  of medicines—and the unwarrantable boastings in thcr
presence of the patient, of cheating the doctor,  at the expence of chea.
ting the poor sufferer of his life—all these causes, assuredly have  had
their baneful influence, and when the orders of a Physician in  one case
may have been strictly attended, in two, they have been scorned.   But
it may be said, that this contrariety of conduct, was only observable among
the ordinary classes of people; to this I would reply it is only among this
particular denomination of beings, we are to look for the greater preva-
lence of the mortality in fever.
     In recurring to the disregard manifested to the proper administra-
tion of medicines, a reluctance on the part of the patient, frequently con-
verted a  curable into an incurable  fever. Some  from  a want of confi-
dence in the use of medicines, and others from a natural  antipathy to re-
medies, suffered until their pains  could no longer be endured.  Others
fell victims, from an enervated state of mind, either impaired from pecu-
liarity of tone, or intimidated from bodily infirmities.   On the first inva-
sion of fever, terror and dismay would involuntarily rest upon them, and
conceiving their situations critical, and their recovery doubtful, would at
once resign all hope of restoration, and submitting  to  their imaginary
forlorn condition, refuse to submit  to profferd  assistance ;  till  disease
by rapid strides  made such  incursions  on the system,  as to render its
removal impracticable.   We need no proofs  of the  influence of fear
and superstition on the mind ; our medical records abound  with instan-
ces, and the practical observer must be convinced of the force of pre-
sentiment, and  the prophetic annunciation of death,  in  the first or
forming  stage of fever.   This has not  passed unnoticed  by the most
scientific of the  profession.  Many cases  terminating fatally,  and com-
paratively mild during an epidemic ; have been produced from despon-
dency ; and is a forcible elucidation of the operation of the mind over
the  body ;  loudly  calling for vigilance  and prescription.   The most
distressing apprehensions have been quieted by the assuasive eloquence
of a physician, and confidence has been acquired, when it would have
been lost, by directing our attention to that purturbation  of mind, insep-
arable with some bodily complaints.
     The indulgence of appetite—The too frequent and injudicious use
of food and drink, by the ill and convalescent, have had no inconsiderable
influence in the fatal termination of many cases.  Such  is the fondness
of nurses to supply their  patients with what they wish ; that  they fre-
quently yield to  their solicitations, under the impression their recovery
is sure, from the desire for food ;  ignorant of an axiom in medicine, that
false appetites is the effect of morbid action; and that abstinence increas-
es the keenest cravings, when the powers of the stomach are  too weak
for the performance of its due functions ; and what is received with avidi-
ty, is a cause of offence, and consequent derangement.  I have  witnessed
the  fatal termination of many cases, that would have been numbered
among the cures,  but for the  uncontrolled  demands  of hunger and
thirst.
     Untimely application to business in convalescents, has been a cause
of relapse ; and a sudden prostration of the system from too much exer-
tion, reducing-the powers of the body below the point of reaction.  Ma-
ny of thafaculty can bear testimony to this fact, as existing among those
whose peculiar situations, and desire for returning to their daily occupa-
tions ; hurried them into  excesses  that ultimated in a return  of fever ;
when  unable to  withstand the shock of a second attack, were soon con-
signed to their lonely habitations.
     It is a trite observation but of melancholy truth, that intemperance
among strangers has been a fruitful cause of fever.   This indeed has had
its too frequent tendency to exposure and other excesses, that lay the 
14
foundation for the superstructure of misery and wretchedness, with atJ
its concomitants.  This was observable in many instances.  The practice
of slingingdown, as it is termed, the anti-fogmatics and mint Julaps! from.
the dawn of day to midnight, has been pursed to too great an excess,
under a false idea of cooling the system, and counteracting the  effects
consequent to a change of climate.  This odious  indulgence  saps  the
foundation of mental as well as bodily stamina, and so enfeebles and alters
the energies of the system, that the slightest attack in many instances, is
sufficient to demolish the fabric of man.  A predilection for ardent spir-
its has induced nurses and attendants to give the patients free potations,
when it was absolutely improper, and when its use was strongly enjoined
by the physician, they converted to their own use, what was intended to
sustain and restore lost tone ; and by depriving the sick of this article,
favour the death of a fellow-creature—deceive the doctor who confided
in their care; but at the same time, deceived  by their  own depravity,
ensure for themselves no distant end to their cares.
    Improper conduct in nurses and  attendants from negligence, igno-
rance and dark  design, have been repeatedly observed.  Negligence to
cleanliness—to the use of remedies—to close attention to the wants of
patients—to the proper preparation of their diet—to the ready perform-
ance of all those offices appertaining to the sick;—baffle the exertions,
skill and care of a physician, at the expence oF his reputation, and the
life of the sufferer.   Ignorance, andther evil, excusable in certain cases,
is abominable to the feelings and detrimental to recovery.  Insufficiency
to perform the duties  of a nurse, and timidity in approaching the sick
bed, should be arranged under the sources of  pestilence, and enumerat-
ed among those agents, destructive to health, the removal of disease, and
the prolongation of life.
    But what shall we say of that fiend-like deportment under the spe-
cious garb of friendship, that demon design, which  accompanies every
word and action.  Bear with me for a moment my patient auditors, whilst
I delineate scenes, that in rendering the rugged path from life to death,
so diversified dui-ing our late sickly season, greatly enlarged the bill.s of
mortality.
    It now becomes my painful duty, as inseperably connected with this
subject, and in further illucidation of the agents that influenced the mor-
tality among those assailed by the iron-grasp of infuriate fever, to state
the deficiency of attendants to the sick on some occasions; the neglect
of attendants in others; and the wanton, intentional indifference to those
whose unfortunate situations assigned them to  the  care of monsters in.
human shape ; whose obdurate hearts,  never pulsated in the cause of hu-
manity—whose minds never entertained the  ennobled principles of
commisseration—whose eyes were obscured to  the  agonizing throes of
suffering humanity—whose ears were  deaf to  the importunities of ex-
hausted nature—whose souls, steeled against the great attributes of God,
would  wage  open hostility against charity and benevolence.   Death,
with all  its terrors, arrayed in all  its  various garbs ;  and assuming the
most horrific aspect; could not assuage nor soften their savage breasts.
Disregarding the sufferings of their fellow beings ;  they would be bu-
sily engaged  in devising means of stripping the almost lifeless body of
its last raiment.  Villainy, in certain situations, stalked uninterrupted j
and in seeking  one object of less perverseness, one would be lost in  a
throng  of such congenial spirits.   Treachery, rapine  and detestable
avarice, were frequently seen,  hovering round  some devoted duelling,
seeking  an opportunity  of executing  base designs.  At one moment,
you would perceive the profligate, with a borrowed  tongue of assuasive
eloquence, administering apparent comfort, while their hands would be
busily employed, pilfering a few worthless trinkets from the prostrate
friend.  Turning your eyes  in another direction,  you  behold a kind
matron, serving the cup replete with the nauseous draught, qualifying it
with an earnest of solicitation, as if the nectarious potion was to infuse 
13
life and vigor.   But mark the reverse !  It is to hasten the close of the
dreadful scene, that shall exonerate from  debt, or place in possession
some inconsiderate legacy.  Directing your attention otherwise, you dis-
cover the watchful nurse, who under the inebriating effects of strong
potations ;  omitted, during the night, giving medicine or nourishment;
but assuming the specious show of attention in the morning, at the  in-
stant of the arrival of the physician ;  would impose on his credulity, and
make him  doubt his own senses ;  insist  on the medicines having  been
properly administered, and would arrogantly assert, the  patient was on
the recovery.   Next you see the kind  friend, who actuated by self in-
terest, had cast the physic out of the window, and declare most solemnly,
the patient had swallowed it.   Next you are annoyed by many loquacious
gossips, Who are paid to  pronounce the doom of your patient, and made
to swear all things have been attended.   But how mortifying the reverse,
to the scrutinizing eye of the physician.   Alas, death soon closes the
scene ! but not the iniquitous scene that ensues.  Scarce has the spirit
winged its flight, when the depredation commences.  Here let me pause.
I shall be led to a foreign theme.   This digression would be inadmissible.
Your feelings would be  too  abruptly arrested on a subject, that  would
harrow the keenest sensibility.
     I cannot omit enumerating one or two agents, that I conceive, have
had their full  force in bringing to an untimely close, many of our fever
cases.
     The constant visits, and officious interference of those, whose garru-
lous, and querimonious tongues, would distract the solemnity of saints;
are sure obstacles to that tranquility and composure, which should always
surround patients.  The vicious tendency of this kind of indulgence, is
not limited in its exercises.  Importunities from these scourg-es to society,
to induce  patients to settle their worldly affairs, and imposing on their
minds the  necessity of making their wills, are too  evident and lamenta-
ble, to be unnnoticed.  We cannot be ignorant of the effect such propo-
sitions make, on the duration of an  acute  disease.  The poor sufferer
is made too soon sensible of his situation, to the detriment of his  future
recovery, and  the gratification of mercenary dispositions ;  who are gen-
erally trained  and expert in what they  term "proper preparation."  If
their forward conduct" stopped here, the  injury would be limited ; but
ever disposed to give full scope to  their detestable views, they, to use
the words  of our much  lamented countryman, doctor Rush, who early
called the attention of physicians to this subject;  " they sap the  confi-
dence of the  sick, by observations on their  physicians, detrimental  to
their reputation, and recommen ■atory of others in consultation, and the
invalid is excessively annoyed with complaints  and animadversions ; and
when they are unheeded,  their effrontery leading them  into greater
excesses of impropriety, they are sure to attack with pertinaceous confi-
dence, the conduct and treatment recommended by the attending  prac-
titioner, even v/ithin the  sound of their voices.  W7 hat then must bethe
effect of such  indecencies on the mind of the patient,  and the conse.
quenccs  that generally result from this aggavation of symptoms.   Confi.
dence in a physician, in many instances favors the cure ; and we are told,
many intelligent men have lamented the demise of a celebrated quack,
in whom the most implicit reliance was  placed, in the progress of a se-
rious malady.
     Are these the only circumstances  that have exercised their influ-
ence in determining and accounting for the  great mortality prevalent
during our sickly season ? I trust not;  the  store of facts is not quite
exhausted ; but I  have sufficiently trespassed on your time and patiencej-
by a recital of the most conspicuous and important.  The force and
magnitude of each particular, I am sensible, will be admitted by those,
who honor me with their attention.   To some of you, these subjects are
more familiar, and I but  renew them in  your recollection.  To others,
they are novel, and would  almost  stagger credibility.  If doubt exist,
accompany the physician in  his visits, enter with  him the  mansions  of 
16
misery and want.  Let the excursive eye be indulged, and the closest
observation brought into action, and he must be insensible to those sub-
limated feelings, which adorn,  exalt and dignify our species, if he does
not readily admit the opinions  and sentiments, this day expressed.  But
in order to  possess  himself of all the bearings and  accompanyme nts
embraced in the positions I have assumed ;  he must first traverse the
fields of philosophy, study the operations of nature ; and  above all, he
must analyse  the circumambient  air ;  that  subtle ether, which is the
prime agent of the stranger's calamity, and that wafts the  semina of dis-
ease over this part of the continent.   Let him learn one truth, paramount
to all others ; that all animated nature demands for its sustenance and
perpetuation, a portion of that invisible  fluid  termed air.  That  in its
common state,  the most perfect operations are performed. That in its
impure stite, imperfect operations are  produced.  Then, and not till
then, will he be convicted of what has been handed down  to us, from the
early dscwn of science to the present period ;  that to a deterioration of
atmospheric air, may we account  for those non-naturals,  subversive off
healthy action, and the prolongation of life.
    Gentlemen of the Society—It becomes me  on thi9 occasion to address
you with that sincerity of expression and warmth of feeling, commensur-
ate with the important trust you are engaged in.—The undeviating zeal
that accompanied you in your labours, and the unremitted devotion, man-
ifested in assuaging the torments, that both corporeally and mentably de-
ranged your fellow beings.  It is due to you individually and collectively
to say, that no research has been wanting, no skill deficient, in combating
the incidiiuis and formidable invasion of that peculiar type of bilious fever,
that regularly appear at certain seasons.  If the specific still lays buried
among the arcana of nature, you have evinced, as much industry in search-
ing for, and detecting its presence, as marked the conduct of your Medi-
cal brethren in any section of this habitable globe.  Your experience and
acquaintance with the various diseases incidental to our climate; has long
convinced you,  that each climate has  its  peculiar diseases—each disease
its peculiar grade—and each grade its peculiar characteristic symptoms.
No regular system can be laid down in the treatment of our fevers ; they
are as various as nature ; as subject to revolution as the planetary system.
He who acknowledges the unity of disease, but tenders his offering at the
shrine of truth; but acknowledges  the memory of him, whose medicsd
worth can never be erased—who  has  raised an imperishable monument
in the medical world : that  the foul blast of envy can never effect; the
rude cavillings of impertinent detraction, can never remove.
    You have  not been unmindful of the calls on  your benevolence,
in attending those destitute of the means of employing  medical aid -,
and the  last  contributions of your pecuniary  and personal support in
furthering the establishment of a Dispensary, evinces your disposition in
favor of its anterior foundation, if your efforts were there  unavailing.
    Pursuing that line of conduct which must perpettlate your useful-
ness, and ultimate to the honor of the profession, you will thereby main-
tain the dignity of your title, and  support  the  respectability of the so-
ciety.
   Remember the science of Medicine stands  unrivalled—remember the
divinity of its origin—its matchless excellence—its extensive  dispensa-
tions.  I need  not remind  you of its coextensive researches with the
chemist, the botanist, the mineralogist, the electrician, the astronomer,
the naturalist.   In a word, it stalks with majestic dignity through all the
avenues of philosophical inquiry ; prompting man to exercises of heav-
enly pursuits—that presents to his mind the profound adoration of th&
Works of creation.  It leads him by resplendent intellect,
             "  Through heaven, or earth, or air, or food,
             "  Through nature's -works, to nature's  God."

                              FINIS. 
 
 
Mei-Hist.
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