Page:Medical jurisprudence (IA medicaljurisprud03pari).pdf/524

 known it fatal: I have known a patient in imminent danger within fourteen hours, but he recovered.

In what way does that disease usually shew itself? does it begin all at once, when the person is in good health, or gradually?—I have known it rather sudden, after an illness of an hour or two.

Have you ever known an instance of a person in good health, eating a hearty dinner, and then sitting down to tea, taken instantly with vomiting and purging in that way described?—I have seen a case very similar to that.

When you say very similar, will you be good enough to explain that a little more?—It occurred in my practice eight years ago, to see a gentleman who was seized with sickness and nausea about five or six o'clock in the afternoon; the sickness and nausea continued increasing till one or two in the morning, and I was desired to see him; and from two to four o'clock I considered him in such danger that I had no hopes.

That does not apply to my difficulty; I want to know what the state of health of that patient would be—that is, whether he would be troubled with a languor or illness, which a person does not very well understand; or whether that person would be, just before his being so seized with it, in perfect good health?—That gentleman whom I mentioned had been delicate in his health, but had had no positive complaints.

Cholera Morbus proceeds from bile?—From bile and corrupt humours.

Will they collect all at once?—They will shew themselves collectively within a very short period of time.

(By Mr. Gifford.) I believe you knew the prisoner at the bar, when attending the Hospital at Exeter?—Yes, Sir.

Had you an opportunity of seeing him frequently?—Occasionally.

Did you know his character for humanity and tenderness?—He always appeared to me to have rather an unusual share