Page:The Hunterian Oration, delivered at the Royal College of Surgeons on the 14th of February, 1834 (IA b31879792).pdf/24

20 had pursued so safely in other departments of pathology. Instead of taking up the subject de novo, and examining the facts for himself, he adopted the current notions respecting the pro- gressive and destructive nature of syphilis, and the specific powers of mercury in arresting the dis- order. He made the influence of that remedy a test of the nature of the disease; maintaining that affections, which admit of cure without the use of mercury are not venereal. Hence his treatise, instead of representing faithfully the course of nature, is chiefly occupied in the endeavour to make facts accord with these preconceived notions. As the latter are unfounded, the structure built upon them falls to the ground. The high autho- rity of MR. HUNTER confirmed and extended these pernicious mistakes; giving origin to the imaginary distinction between venereal diseases, and those resembling them, to the fanciful creation of pseudo syphilis, and syphiloid diseases; by which so much confusion, uncertainty, and embarrassment, have been introduced into an important department of surgical pathology and practice.

So completely was MR. HUNTER engrossed by his favourite pursuits, that the feelings and objects which sway common minds were either inoperative in him, or absorbed by the ruling passion. He valued wealth merely as the means of aiding his scientific undertakings: as fast as he acquired money, he spent it in his museum, in purchasing