Page:Transactions of the Provincial Medical and Surgical Association, volume 1.djvu/40

 either be overlooked, the success will be less speedy and less complete.

Among the spinal diseases, are many of which our knowledge is very defective; several for which we have no rational mode of cure. The more prominent of these will readily present themselves.

Therapeutics.—The modus operandi of remedies, too, needs further elucidation. Were this more completely investigated, many of our most active and useful medicines might, through analogy, be extended in their applications, and far more safely used. Mercury, for instance, which, when administered according to its more immediate and physiological operation, is capable of extended and accurate use, of which they who judge only from its more remote and curative effects, have but a very imperfect notion. On this question, my friend. Dr. Barlow, of Bath, has thrown light, in one of his papers in the Cyclopædia of Practical Medicine, a work which, as far as it has gone, does honour to our country, and to which one is proud to see the names of so many provincial physicians attached.

All the subjects which I have above mentioned, (and they might be readily multiplied,) may be elucidated by good essays. They, moreover, have been the favoured method by which some of the brightest ornaments of our profession have given their thoughts to the world. Many, whose avocations and cares will not permit them to engage in the more regular and laborious task of a treatise, may render much service by this more convenient, and not less effective way, of communicating valuable information to their brethren.