Page:Merret - A short view of the frauds and abuses committed by apothecaries.pdf/32

 it in such Physicians as buy their Medicines of them.

Fourthly, The Kings Physicians have formerly made the Kings Medicines, as 'tis manifest by my Lord Coke, in his 4th. Book of the Institutes, part 4. pag. 251. where he comments on ''Rot. Pat''. 32 H. 6. m. 17. He there first recites the Roll it self, wherein are appointed (the King being then sick) 3 Physicians and 2 Chirurgeons, to freely minister and execute Physic about the Kings Person, and there are also recited in general, Medicines external, and internal. And on this Roll Coke among other things infers, that the Physicians may use the aid of those Chirurgeons named in the Warrant, but of no Apothecary, but to prepare and do all things themselves, &c. And the reason of all this is, the precious regard had of the health and safety of the King, who is the head of the Common-wealth. And l am told by one of his present Majesties Physicians, that the King himself affirmed heretofore we are unwise in neglecting our duty herein, and lately of these papers, that 'twas the publick interest so to do.

Fifthly, chirurgeons (as before) will not trust them to make external Remedies; and the King, and East-India Company commit the making of their Chests for their Fleets to the Chirurgeons.

Sixthly, Have not Ladies and Charitable Gentlewomen their Closets well furnished with various Medicines for the Poors use, and for their own also, when Physicians are called to their houses in the Country? Distillers of Strong-waters, Makers of Plaisters, Confectioners make Medicines bought by the Apothecaries, Rh