ldren to the contagion of
scarlatina from the confidence he has in the curative or protective
powers _of any drug_.

I hope, my brother-physicians will believe me, when I assure them, that
I do not mean any disrespect to the profession, in thus introducing a
new sound method for the weak old routine. Perhaps, my exposition of the
principles of my practice, and the attempt at a systematic arrangement
of the materials at my disposal, may gain a few converts. If I am not
mistaken, this pamphlet is the first that treats the subject
systematically and to some extent. I am aware that it might be better
written and more perfect. But, I trust that it will do some good, and
hope it will pave the way for a better production, based on a more
extensive practice and enriched with new discoveries on the part of
American physicians, whose genius and activity are not inferior to those
of any other nation.

When the Hydriatic System becomes more and more a part of the practice
of educated and enlightened practitioners, it will become a much greater
benefit to the human race, not only with regard to the cure of eruptive
fevers, but of that of all diseases to which it can be adapted, beside
the happy reform it will assist in bringing about in our effeminate and
luxurious way of living, which, at all times, has been a source of ruin
for individuals, families and nations.

But as long as the profession continues in its old routine, I can give
you no other advice than that of following my prescriptions and of
helping yourselves:--

"Aide-toi, et le ciel t'aidera!"

FOOTNOTES:

[37] I speak here of the true erysipelas, of course, and not of the
chronic eruption of the face, &c., erroneously called erysipelas by
many.

[38] I think of the obstinacy of a medical friend, who refused to take a
lesson from Priessnitz, and constantly looked for advice, in cases of
need, in works written by learned practitioners. He lost three patients
in one family from scarlatina anginosa, which would certainly have been
cured by the packs. In two other cases I was called to his assistance,
when he insisted upon putting ice upon the head of the patients to
remove the affection of the brain (the reaction was sthenic! See 50). I
told him that in the cases before us, repeated packing was the only safe
application, and we had a few unpleasant words, when I yielded,
promising him that he would come round to my opinion within a few hours.
And so it was; th