OBSTETRICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6TH, 1867.

OBSTETRICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6TH, 1867.

313 I was less fatal than it had been for many years : the published matters. We do not rely upon any of the reports which deaths from this cause we...

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was less fatal than it had been for many years : the published matters. We do not rely upon any of the reports which deaths from this cause were at their maximum in 1863, caus- are so rife at the present time in regard to the operator and his ing 5075 deaths; and since that time the fatal cases have operations, but simply upon the published statements which have successively declined to 3242, 2181, and to 1885 last year. been laid before the profession, and are well known. The resolu Whooping-cough was more than usually fatal both in 1865 and tion will be proposed and balloted upon at the meeting in April ; 1866, causing in each year an almost equal number of 2900 and if there be any discussion upon it, it will take place, accorddeaths. Typhus (including infantile fever) declined from 3689 ing to our rules, at that meeting. Dr. BECK.—I should like to ask the President, if the Council deaths in 1864, to 3231 in 1865, and 2681 in 1866. Dysentery caused 148 deaths last year, as compared with 175 in 1854. are prepared to give us the grounds upon which the resolution is In 1854, the deaths resulting from dysentery were 175, from founded, whether they will favour us with any references. The PRESIDENT.—The Council will shortly have a meeting, diarrhoea 3235, and from cholera 1078 ; last year the numbers were 148, 3184, and 5577 respectively. Only 7 deaths were when the published matters will be arranged seriatim, and they ascribed to ague, which is the smallest number recorded in will doubtless be open to the Fellows to judge upon them before any year. Syphilis has gradually increased the number of its they commence balloting at the next meeting. victims from 168 in 1855, to 408 in 1866. Hydrophobia was Dr. BECK.—Pardon me. I do not want to put any question the cause of 11deaths; during the five years 1858-62no death which is improper ; but would the Council favour us with any was registered from this cause, but in 1863 there were 2, and intimation or reference to the particular parts that are objected in 1865 there were 9 fatal cases. The number of infants dying two? I only ask the question for information. from want of breast-milk has increased from an average of three The PRESIDENT.—They are not prepared to do so at the present or four hundred, to 531 and 514 in the last two years. Scurvy time. increased from 80 to 91. The victims of intemperance have Dr. BECK.—Will they do so before the next meeting ? This is declined from 243 to 205. Deaths from cancer have become a matter of great delicacy, and one which we all approach with very numerous of late years; the fatal cases now exceed great distress (hear, hear), and at the same time we must all feel 1400 per .annum. A very large increase in the deaths from that it ought not to be approached hastily. If the Council will phthisis is noticeable ;they -have risen successively from favour us with particular references to the passages objected to 7716 to 9277 in the last six years. Diseases of the brain and we might have an opportunity of turning them over in our minds nerves caused 8272 deaths last year; these maladies, by their and coming to a more deliberate opinion upon them than we progressive increase, bear witness to the effects of our high- otherwise could arrive at. (Hear, hear.) Dr. ROUTH.—From the observations which you have made, sir, pressure age on the delicate mental organisation. The diseases of the respiratory organs fluctuate each year with the it would appear that you are not yet decided upon what the prevailing temperature ; both in 1864 and 1866 these causes charges are, and yet, notwithstanding that, you, after having met were very fatal, resulting in 15,201 and 13,230 deaths. In- in secret council, have come to the determination to give notice tegumentary ailments are diminishing in fatality; 296 deaths to-night of the expulsion of a member, thus committing an act Violent of the greatest severity against a Fellow. You simply say that were ascribed to these causes in 1856, last year 209. deaths were less numerous than in either of the two preceding you must call a special meeting to bring the subject before the years; and the returns indicate considerable improvement Societv. either in the registration or in the classification of the causes Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I rise to order. (Order, order, and great of death, if we may judge by the reduced number of causes confusion.) not specified" or "unascertained." Dr. ROUTH.—I am in possession of the chair. There was nothing specially remarkable in the meteorology of Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I rise to order. (Chair, chair.) the year. The mean temperature was half a degree above the The PRESIDENT.—I have already stated that full opportunity average of twenty-five years; but the winter and autumn of discussion will be allowed at the next meeting in April. We quarters were warmer, and the summer slightly colder, than are in possession of the published facts. They only require to be usual. It is recorded that the wind blew from the west and arranged for the next meeting of the Society, and even before south during no less than 243 days, leaving 122 days for the that, when they are so arranged, they might be inspected by any ungenial breezes of the north and east. The rain-fall amounted Fellow who desires to see them. to 30’5 inches, which is one inch in excess of the average for Dr. ROUTH.—I think I am perfectly in order. I do not wish a long series of years. to take up the time of the Society, or to say anything unkind towards the Council; but I maintain that it is a principle which every British subject should hold, that, as in any ordinary court of law, when charges are brought against a man, they should be OBSTETRICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON. distinctly put. (Hear, heat.) But here it would appear, that WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6TH, 1867. before the Society have had an opportunity of knowing what the DR. HALL DAVIS IN THE CHAIR. charges are (for the expression that you make use of, " published matters," is exceedingly vague), the Council secretly met-no doubt under the best of motives-without having the "prisoner" So numerous was the attendance of Fellows and visitors at before it to hear what he has to say in his defence, and this meeting that quite a large crowd assembled at the bottom has given to the whole professionof the room and in the doorway, unable to obtain seats. The Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I rise to order, and protest. (Chair, chair, Is Dr. Routh in order in attacking the and confusion.) names of twenty-six visitors were entered in the attendance Council? (Order, order.) but is believed of had omitted it that some those book, present Dr. RouTH.-I do not attack the Council. I take you, sir, this formality. The speakers were frequently interrupted by as the organ of the Council, and you have stated this evening expressions of dissent or approval, and a scene of great excite- that certain charges are to be brought forward against a Fellow. ment prevailed. After the usual formal business, I do not care who that Fellow is ; I go upon the broad principle. Dr. TYLER SMITH.-I speak to order. (Chair, chair.) The PRESIDENT said-Before proceeding with the papers of The PRESIDENT.-I hope Dr. Routh will be as brief as posthe evening, I have a duty, and a painful one, I must confess, to sible. I have already informed the Fellows that there will be full of in of the that of the Council, perform, pursuance request opportunity at the meeting in April to discuss this matter most reading to you, by way of notice, a resolution which has been fully. arrived at at two large meetings of the Council, and which Dr. TANNER.—We cannot discuss the matter without the will be proposed to you at the next meeting of the Society, and materials. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—We must act according to the laws of the balloted upon by the Fellows then present. I should premise that it is necessary, according to our rules, that there should be Society. Dr. ROUTH.—The president has ruled that I am in possession notice of such an important resolution as this ; and I may say of the chair; and I appeal to the Society whether I am to be that a copy of the resolution itself has been already placed in the heard or not ? (Hear, hear.) hands of the Fellow to whom it refers. The resolution is : " That The PRESIDENT.—The rule of the Society is, whenever, in the in the opinion of this Council the published matters in relation to opinion of the Council, there is cause for the removal of a Fellow, the performance of clitoridectomy by Mr. 1. B. Brown justify the same shall be notified by the president of the Society at the next ordinary meeting, and notice forthwith sent to every Fellow the Council in recommending the Society to put in force against of the Society, making the next meeting special, for the purpose him law iv. sec. 2, which provides for the expulsion of a Fellow." of considering such removal. I may say that this resolution, as it states, is grounded upon Dr. TYLER SMITH.—That is the law.

Scarlatina

I,

brought

314 Dr. ROUTH.—I presume that that does not affect my right to sion of opinion in the way of applause or the contrary. This on this occasion. I rise as a Fellow, and I think the being a business matter, I should like to inquire whether the visiCouncil have gone out of their way in coming to this conclusion. tors ought to be present or not. I think they have been premature. I do not say that there has Dr. TANNER.—Wehave been told bv the President that vig’,. been anything dishonest on the part of the Council, but they tors for the evening are to consider themselves as members. have not adopted the usual British course in this matter. Dr. BARNES.—Not on private matters. Dr. TANNER.—WE have no private matters. This is a public Whether in this Society or in any other, we should act fairly and equitably. You are bringing forward a most grave charge afFair. This is a question that may be the ruin of a professional against a Fellow, and branding his name with the greatest dis- brother. Let us have nothing in private. Let our doings be grace that you can apply to it. (Hear, hear.) I say, it was open to the whole medical world. I will retire immediately if your duty in a matter of this kind, before you brought forward we are to have any hole-and-corner doings. It has been the the charge of expulsion, to have had the Fellow before you, and bane of many institutions that their proceedings have been conthen, having heard all the pros and cons, you should have come ducted in secret. I second the first motion of Dr. Routh, ’to the Society and said, "We have had this person before us, we because I feel I am somewhat to blame in having brought trouble have heard what he has to say, and we think that he is unworthy upon this Society and upon Mr. Brown. When I wrote my to be amongst yon; and therefore call upon you to expel him." paper and brought it forward, I did so with the intention of disHave you done so? No. You yourselves say, that you are cussing a scientific question, and I hoped it would not be made a not prepared to bring forward the charges except at a future personal matter. I have paid as much attention to the subject of clitoridectomy as any other man in the Society. I have read meeting. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—What is the law ? everything I could find upon the subject, and I confess that I Dr. ROUTH.—The law is the law of British subjects. I can am at a loss to ascertain upon what grounds Mr. Brown should be go upon no other principle than that. You, the Council of this expelled from this Society owing to " published matters" on the Society, are like so manv grand jurymen appointed to investigate subject. If we are to listen to hearsay and to the idle tattle that before us. We are the ordinary goes about, we may take away any man’s character. If the the question before it jurymen who have to decide it. Whoever heard of a grand jury Council has any specific charge against Mr. Brown, Mr. Brown bringing a charge of this kind without having the prisoner before should have an opportunity of being heard before he is branded them I do not say this as applying to the gentleman to whom as being worthy of expulsion. Mr. Brown has been treated in a this resolution relates ; it may apply to me, or to any member way that no murderer would be treated at the Old Bailey. He present at some future time. I stand upon my rights as a Fellow has had no opportunity of knowing the charges brought against f the Society, and I say you have no right whatever by the con- him, and has not been asked for any explanation of his conduct. stitution of the Society to bring any man here and brand him We all know what tongues scandal has, and what lying reports in this way without specifying the charges that are to be brought it constantly gives rise to ; and I say, if the proceedings which against him, without manfully stating the reasons upon which you are now taken against Mr. Brown are followed out, no man in desire the member to be expelled. What is the natural inference this Society will be safe. (Hear, hear.) A.person may go prito be drawn from the course that has been taken ? I believe vately and malie a report against any gentleman, and he, without there are men upon the Council who are thoroughly honourable, any knowledge of the subject, may find himself recommended to and would not put their hand to anything that is unworthy. But the Society-for expulsion. You have stated that this matter what will the members say ? what does the world say ? Why, is to be discussed at the next meeting, but how are we to discuss that the Council of the Obstetric Society is a Star Charnber. it when we are ignorant of the exact charge that is made ? (Hear, hear.) If Iam in order, I should like to move the pre- Nothing can be more vague than to say that a man is to be exvious question, in order that this matter might be carried out in i pelled on account of "published statements," when we do not know what those published statements are until we meet for the a proper and honourable way ; and, secondly, I should like to consideration of his expulsion. We ought to have some days move the appointment of a committee consisting of members of the Council, and members of the Society, to investigate this at least given to us for deliberation. I was prepared to move, question thoroughly ; and then, when we, the members of a if the measure proposed by Dr. Routh is not carried out, that an liberal profession, have heard the conclusion at which you have abstract of these published statements, with references to the arrived in that committee, we should be likely to follow your deci- places where they are to be found, should be circulated among sion. But do you think that any member of this Society, who is the Fellows, such a statement to be given to every member in the habit of performing that or any other operation, is to be fourteen or fifteen days before the meeting, so that we may compelled to follow out any particular line of practice without a have ample opportunity of looking into the charges that are previous inquiry into it? Why, sir, the very question of clitori- brought. I do not accuse the Council of any wrong-doing, but dectomy is not yet settled. The proper thingwould be to bring I say that they have been unwise and unfair, for no gentleman forward that subject before a general committee of members ought to be made the subject of any charge without having an against whom there could not be the slightest suspicion, who would opportunity of being heard in his defence. Dr. HOLT DUNN.—Upon an occasion like this, when we are investigate it fully and honourably, and then you would do some good for the Society and the profession at large, and you would not called upon to perform so painful a duty, it behoves us to see bring upon the honourable Council over which you preside those what the object of the law is. We are somewhat in the position opinions which are now entertained against them for the manner of having to interpret an Act of Parliament that has never been in which they have acted. I speak entirely upon my rights as a worked. This is the first time (I hope it may be the last), that British subject, feeling that I am addressing a body of men who we have had to consider this matter. I think the object of the notice you have read is to give the Fellows an opportunity of are accustomed to see justice done, not only to those who are accused, but to the accuser himself ; and it is because the pro- stopping the proceeding here, if they should think fit ; therefore ceedings of the Council are opposed to those principles that I I think it is most important that we should be fully informed as have been taught from my youth upwards, and which I consider to the nature of the charges you have to make against a Fellow to be the great honour of this country, that I now stand up and who is proposed to be expelled. I was pleased to hear that contend that the course which you have pursued is not right. I those charges were to be confined to " published matters ;" that should like to move the previous question, so that what you are no tittle-tattle or idle reports, if they had reached your ears, made about to do may fall to the ground entirely till such time as you any impression. Indeed, I cannot suppose for a moment that shall be ready with your charges in black and white ; so that after the Council would be influenced by such considerations. But I having examined the prisoner, so to call him, in his defence, you agree with the two previous speakers, that we are entitled to may be able to come to the Society and say, "Gentlemen, we something more definite. The " published matters" form a have investigated this matter, and we find that this member is volume, and many of the Fellows may never have had an opporunworthy of remainingamongst us." My second proposition is, tunity of reading them. In reference to the value of those pubthat with a view of informing the whole of the profession as to lished statements, I cannot but call to mind that one gentleman, the course which they are to pursue in reference to this operation, a Fellow of this Society, made a statement by insinuation in refea committee be appointed to investigate the question impartially, rence to the institution to which the member in question belongs, and give us the benefit of their wisdom. that he had seen and beard things there which he would not de Dr. TANNER.-I beg most respectfully to second the resolutio scribe further than to say, that they had such an effect upon him which has been proposed by Dr. Routh. that he would never go again, and that he warned his class not There is a published stateDr. BARNES.-I wish to speak to a point of order. (Chair, to go. (Question, question !) chair.) I must insist upon this point. This is a matter which ment which has never yet been explained. I do impress upon concerns the Society. There are a certain number of gentlemen the Society the importance of supporting the two gentlemen who present who are not Fellows, and I suggest that if they remain have proposed and seconded this resolution, and if possible preas visitors in the room they should not take part in any expres- venting this matter from going any further, as it will only be a

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315 to the fair and free discussion of this subject by any other person, but I wish to point out that Dr. Routh recom we are not in order in the course which . may be yours or mine to-morrow. (Hear, hear.) mends us to pursue this evening. The PRESIDENT.—I wish to know whether it is the desire Sir, no more the Fellows thatthe discussion should take place to-night question could come before the Council than the-one which has recently come before it. When the subject came up we of in April ? were obliged to consider the laws of the Society ; we were Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I appeal to the law. Dr. HEAD.—I should like to ask one question. Two letters obliged, first of all, to consider how the laws directed that we should proceed. I believe that Dr. Tanner and Dr. Routh were were sent by Mr. Brown to the Council for their consideration, and they were not answered. Some daysbefore the 27th of largely concerned in the making of the laws which guide the February the Council must have had Mr. Brown’s letter, stating Society. Well, we were obliged to refer to the law on this subthat he was anxious to withdraw for the present his application ject, and I do not think it has anything unfair in it, but gives to the Society. I wish to know whether, after that withdrawal, evidence of remarkable care that nothing should be done in the Council are justified in stating that they recommend Mr. haste, nothing done out of order against any Fellow of the Society. Brown’s expulsion on account of " published matters" ? Is there The law is this : " Whenever there shall, in the opinion of the any connexion between Mr. Brown’s letters and the recommen- Council, appear cause for the removal of a Fellow, the same shall be notified by the President of the Society at the next ordinary dation of the Council for his expulsion ? The PRESIDENT.—No connexion whatever. meeting." We cannot, therefore, have done anything else than Dr. SAVAGE.—I understood a previous speaker to say that he has been done to-night. According to the law, we were bound would move the previous question, because the matter might be at the next ordinary meeting to read that notice which has been settled in that way. Now, it seems to me impossible that the read to you. This law was not made against any particular question can be settled in any other way than by the fullest in- Fellow, and we are obliged to act up to it. Dr. Routh has revestigation. You have thought fit in your wisdom to circulate ferred to Englishmen. I am sure there are no Englishmen not only amongst us, but in truth amongst the profession gene- here who would not wish things conducted in every way acrally, such allegations or insinuations against Mr. Brown as it is cording to the law of the case. (Hear, hear.) Then the rule impossible to pass over. There is a very simple plan for you to states that " notice is forthwith to be sent to every Fellow of adopt-to print and circulate the published matter under con- the Society." The nature of the notice would have to be con-

disgrace

to the

should all

Society, deeply regret.

and injure it in a manner which we What is this gentleman’scase to-day

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impediment Dr. Routh

or

of

disagreeable

instead

so that we may have an opportunity of reading it sidered by the Council ; and I have no doubt whatever that a before we dispose of the question. (Hear, hear.) I am rather notice will be sent to the Society containing the information afraid that the proposition which has been made may prevent you which the Society might fairly demand at the hands of the from doing this. Considering the manner in which this subject Council. (Hear, hear.) Then the rule says that the next has been brought forward, it seems impossible to pass it over meeting is to be made special for the purpose of considering without a thorough consideration amongst ourselves. It is not such removal. Now, what I want to say is this, that Dr. imnrobable that. having- looked over all these matters. we might against the law, and against the justice of the decide in to the Council, and in that case some sort case, in wishing to consider the matter now. We must proceed of consideration or acknowledgment will be due to Mr. Brown in the way which the President has pointed out. There is no for all the pain and agony he must have undergone. I never wish to be secret, there is no wish to be irresponsible, but we are heard of published matters being entertained by a society in this obliged to act according to the law, and I believe that the law is framed to meet the justice of the matter. There will way. I do not say that they should not be entertained by the Council; but when they were entertained it was their duty at be full time for consideration and discussion at the next once to circulate them amongst us, in order to show us that there there is not at the present meeting. Dr. Routh is not in order I wish in rising not to obstructive to him but merely was some justification for coming to so extraordinary, and I may be the proper order of our prosay so cruel, a conclusion. The PPESIDENT.—AlloW me again to remark, that I think this ceedinds. I think the Society will only be paying itself proper discussion had much better take place at a future time. respect if it adheres to its laws. (Hear, hear.) Dr. SANSOM.—I have an amendment to propose. Dr. ROGERS.—May I be permitted to say a word ? I agree Dr. SAVAGE.—But I have not finished yet. (Laughter.) If with what Dr. Tyler Smith has said ; but there is one important you allow an amendment you must hear all I have to say. I point which he omitted. He has said that notice is to be given desire, above all things, that Dr. Routh’s resolution should not us of the charges that are to be brought forward ; but when ? interfere with our having the whole subject before us. I should iThe day before the meeting ? have known nothing of this matter, had not Mr. Brown sent a Dr. TYLER SMITH.—No, no. circular to apprise us of what we ought to have known Dr. ROGERS.—You may leave it till then. We ought to have full information on this subject in ample time to enable us to you fifteen days ago. The PRESIDENT.—Is it the wish of the meeting to go on with come to a right conclusion. this discussion ? (Yes, yes, and No, no.) The PRESIDENT.-- Dr. Smith has stated that we have not yet Dr. SAVAGE.—I should be glad to move at once that those arranged the notice that is to be sent. (Hear, hear.) Dr. ROGERS.—Then it will be better to wait until it is ready. "published matters" be circulated among the members, unless we can get your assurance that we shall receive them from you Dr. WYNN WILLIAMS.—I beg to suggest that this meeting forthwith. stand adjourned till we have the particulars placed before us. I Dr. was what I was about to propose by way really think that is the intention of the law. The law saysof amendment, thatbrief abstract of these published matters," "Whenever there shall, in the opinion of the Council, appear with references to the published works whereon the Council have cause for the removal of a Fellow, the same," that is, "the cause," " founded their decision, be sent to the Fellows of the Society. shall be notified by the President of the Society at the next Dr. SAVAGE.—I do not want an abstract ; I want the whole ordinarv meeting, and notice forthwith sent to every Fellow of the thino (Hear Society." Now I beg to say that the "cause" has not been Dr. SANSOM.—I do not wiph any fundamental point to be notified. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—" The same" refers to the "removal," not curtailed ; but it would be impossible, I suppose, to give all the to " the cause." arguments in extenso. The PRESIDENT.—I think we are out of order in proceeding Dr. WYNN WILLIAMS.—I beg to propose that the meeting with this discussion. There is no objection whatever to pro- stand adjourned till we have the particular charges brought forduce to the Fellows of the Society the statements upon which ward. No one must suppose that I do this from any love for the Council intend to proceed. The Council have the state- Mr. Baker Brown, or his operation, because every one must be ments in their possession, and when they have arranged them aware that I am strongly opposed to it ; but I do it in fairness a Fellow of the Society, that we may be able to give the subthey will be made known to the Fellows. Dr. ROUTH.—I think we are under a misapprehension. I ject due consideration before we come to any conclusion as to have moved the previous question, and Dr. Savage is in error. whether he should be expelled or not. The "previous question"means that the motion that you have Dr. BARNES.—I do not see blr. Brown here to-night, but brought forward to-night shall fall to the ground. After you several gentlemen have spoken on his behalf, and I should like to have brought everything forward in black and white, and ex- know whether they are authorized by Mr. Brown to take this amined this gentleman, and circulated to all the members the course-if it is Mr. Brown’s wish that these particulars should grounds upon which you proceed, bring forward this motion ifbe sent to all the Fellows. choose. What I find fault with is, that before you have I Dr. TANNER.—I appear here as a partisan of no man, but I heard the accused you bring forward the resolution against him. come as a Fellow of the Society wishing to act fairly. The Dr. TYLER SMITH.—My object in rising is not to put any Council has already taken away Mr. Brown’s character by the

sideration,

Routh is going

opposition

abutdmirably

I to lay down what seems tome to

through

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316 proceedings it has adopted. I say it should have inquired what relates to the President : The President shall regulate all the reply Mr. Brown had to make before bringing forward this proceedings of the Society and Council ; he shall state and put motion. questions, admit Fellows, interpret the application of the byeDr. BARNES.—My question has not yet been answered. laws, and decide every doubtful question ;" and then comes a Mr. BROWN, Jun.-I cannot say that I am authorized to speak clause which I would with all deference submit to the President

my father’s behalf; but as heis not present I may say, that I am and Council : " He shall check irregularities and enforce the it wouldbe his wish that this matter should be laid fully before observance of the laws." Mr. SCOTT.—I commend thatclause to Dr. Tyler Smith’s rethe Society, and that he would court the fullest investigation. I differ from the learned professor of midwifery at the University of collection, for at the commencement of the proceedings this London, and his English, and I say that when the rule says, that night he was the cause of a very great loss of time and inter" when there shall appear cause for the removal, the same shall ruption. (Laughter.) Notwithstanding the observation of Dr. be notified," it means that the " cause" shall be notified. It is Tyler Smith, I think this point is for the Society and not for the fifteen dayssince the last meeting of the Council, which was held President to decide, whether this grave charge hanging over a man should be brought forward in this loose strange sort of way. on the 22nd of last month ; and there has been ample time to reprint the published matter, to which allusion has been made, and You are bound, I conceive, to show cause. Have you done so ? lay them before the Society for consideration. That is evidently That is the simple question before the Society, and I think the what is meant by this law, I have not had any communication Fellows are the proper parties to settle it. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—At the next meeting. with my father, nor seen him for some days ; but I am sure that Mr. BURTON.—I feel that in strictness we ought to follow the he would desire that the fullest investigation should be made of his conduct, public or private. He has twice offered the Council ordinary rules of the Society, and it appears to me that the Council have done so. Nevertheless, I think a great deal might to appoint a commission. be done towards satisfying the feeling of the meeting, and also Dr. BARNES.-Never. I deny that. Mr. BROWN, Jun.-Perhaps he did not. (Oh, oh.) I believe what Dr. Routh calls the claims of justice, if the Council would he has done so. engage to provide the Fellows before the next meeting, with the Dr. BARNES.—He did once, and then withdrew it before the means of satisfying their own minds as to what is right or wrong in the conduct of the Fellow to whom reference has been made. meeting could consider it. The PRESIDENT.-I have given that assurance a long time ago, Mr. BROWN, Jun.-I was in error, because I believe the remarks of the late president, in his Address, with reference to the and it will be abided by. Dr. ROUTH.—In order to give the Council time to act, I moved appointment of a commission:on any scientific subject, had special reference to the letter. The proceedings of the Council are very the previous question, and I wish to insist on my resolution. mysterious to outsiders; but I have heard-I do not know When we have the matter fully before us we shall be in a posiwhether I am rightly informed-that the late president, at the tion to discuss it. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—That would occupy three nights of the farewell meeting, said it had been decided not to appoint the commission. I may be in error, but I believe that is the Society. Dr. ROUTH.—Well, what then ? We had better do it fairly ; general opinion ; because in a later letter, which was never contradicted, Mr. Brown stated that he had sent a letter, and thisis a serious matter. Mr. HARPER. -It certainly does appear to me that before the that he should send another on the subject now that a new Council was appointed. That was not denied by any member Council sent forth to the world a most grave charge involving the of the Council. greatest penalty that a Society can inflict upon a man, they ought to have prepared themselves with the evidence they wish to give Dr. BARNES.—I deny it now. Mr. BROWN, Jun.-It was never denied then. I say with all in support of that charge. If they had been prepared with it, deference that the Council is not in order in bringing forward they could have referred to it to-night. As it is, they have drawn this resolution to-night, unless they are prepared to lay before up charges practically condemning a man and afterwards sought the Fellows the " cause" for removal. I am not sufficielitly in- for the evidence (No, no). The PRESIDENT.-I beg to say that the resolution would never structed in the laws of the Society to be able to frame a resolution in accordance with them, but I think we may fairly take it have been brought forward had we not already been in possesthat the sense of the meeting is, that the Council is not in order sion of the matters referred to in the resolution. Mr. HARPER.-Then they cannot want arrangement. in proceeding in this way.suppose the best way would be to A FELLOW.—The Council have certainly condemned an accused adopt Dr. Routh’s motion of the previous question. Dr. ROGERS.—I would suggest the advisability of withdrawing person before he has been tried ; and I think Dr. Routh’s resothe resolution until the next meeting, so that the members may lution is one which will enable them to retrace their steps. Dr. SEDGWICK.—When the rule says that the Council shall have full information on the subject. I think that would be a graceful act on the part of the Council towards the Society. It notify "the cause," it does not mean that they shall notify the will only be postponing the matter a month, and everything will proofs of the cause. They have given us a statement in general be then in order. terms, and I think we should be satisfied with the President’s The PRESIDENT.-The Council have acted strictly in accordance assurance that at the earliest period the proof shall be in the with the laws as far as I understand them. Notice will be given hands of all the members of the Society. I think " the previous according to the rule to each Fellow, and no doubt the charges questionshould be withdrawn. will accompany that notice. I do not see that we can gain anyDr. SAVAGE.—We ought to know what "the cause"is. It thing bv any further discussion at present. There will be full might be the east wind or anything else. (Laughter.) I want it opportunity of discussing it at the next meeting, and materials specified-not merely an abstract.but a full detail of the statewill be placed in your possession long before the meeting is ments on which you ground your determination to recommend Mr. Brown’s dismissal from the Society. If Dr. Routh’s resoheld. Dr. HEAD.—It is desirable that the charges brought against lution will carry that, I am satisfied ; otherwise I press my Mr. Brown should be most clearly defined, so that there may be amendment. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I am sorry to trouble the meeting so no mistake about them. Dr. HICKS.—It seemsthat there are two ways of reading the much, but I want you to see plainly that which Dr. Routh rule to which reference has been made. The matter only rests avows-that his object is not to obtain information, but to put upon the interpretation of the law, and upon that depends the aside the whole matter. Dr. ROUTH.—No such thing. question whether the Council are in order or not in order. Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I am obliged to appeal to the law, which Mr. SCOTT.-The whole question turns upon that, and I think it is desirable that the sense of the meeting should be taken upon says that "whenever there shall in the opinion of the Council it. To my mind the rule declares that the Council shall bring appear cause for the removal of a Fellow, the same shall be nobefore the Society the cause of removal. Now, I conceive it is tified at the next meeting." We cannot notify it at the meeting impossible that we can accept the vague charge which you make after the next. We should then have Dr. Routh and the genwith regard to published statements. There is no specific charge tlemen with him saying, "Why do you not abide by the law? made. This is not a question of Mr. Brown at all, but a ques- you cannot do it at this meeting;" and he would laugh in his tion of the honour of the Society. I think we are bound to make sleeve at having " befooled" us. (Laughter.) If this matter is to it clear for our own sakes and for our own honour. It appears be considered, it must be in the way which the law directs. The to me that the Council are quite out of court in the proceedings President has promised on behalf of the Council (and he is really supreme in the management of the Society) that the information they have taken. The PRESIDENT.-The Council consider themselves quite in which Dr. Routh, Dr. Tanner, and Dr. Savage require shall be order. forthcoming, not the day before the next meeting, but in ample Dr. TYLER SMITH.—I should like to read another law which time for the consideration ofevery Fellow. (Hear, hear.) V’hat

on

sure

I

317 be wanted ? Dr. Routh will destroy the possibility of infant its natural food. I have found it very useful in reconsidering this matter. If it is put off, the President cannot tracted nipples, bringing them out and the milk to the surface, give notice, because it will not be the " next" meeting. Far be thus rendering suction easy. In sore nipples it is of great use, it from me to say a word in the way of stifling discussion. I as the mother is not subjected to the excruciating pain caused

more can

desire the freest and fullest discussion, and I believe the laws by the tearing and kneading action of the child when applied them. provide for it ; but if the Society were led away by Dr. Routh’s to To sum up its advantages. It requires scarcely any trouble motion, the whole subject would be burked. Dr. RouTH.-Dr. Tyler Smith contradicts himself. He begins to render it self-acting. ’Whilst being a breast-pump it serves by saying that I do not want information on the subject, and also as a feeding-bottle. It is easy of application. By its ends by saying that I do. timely use many cases of abscess may be prevented, as its action is simple, and no pain is given or violence required in Dr. TYLER SMITH.—Not a bit of it. Dr. ROUTH.—I merely wish the Council to be in a proper its use. The aperture in the centre is applied over the nipple, the position. I object to their condemning a man before he has been heard. tap being turned onsuction is then applied to the indiaA FELLOw.-Mr. Brown’s best friends can only wish that this rubber nipple, and the bottle becomes quickly exhausted. the milk gets freely out the tap must be turned off, question should be properly discussed, and that his character Directly should be cleared. The best way to do it is to discuss the matter and the instrument, which must be lightly supported against at the next meeting ; you, as the organ of the Council, giving the breast by the patient, becomes self-acting. As soon as the your word that the charges shall be placed in the hands of those breast is relieved, the tap can be turned on, which renders the who have to decide the matter. What more can be done than removal of the instrument easy. Messrs. Maw and Son, of Aldersgate-street, have underthat? Mr. BROWN, jun.-I should like to know, before a vote is taken to meet the demands of the profession. T ann Sir yours &c., taken, how long it will be before the " cause" of removal is made FRED. GOODCHILD, M.D. known, because that would influence me very much in voting. Portland-street, Leamington, March, If Dr. Routh’s motion be carried, it leaves the stigma on the Fellow in question for a month longer. If we have a promise that the whole information shall be brought before us in a week THE LATE PROFESSOR GOODSIR. - three weeks before the next meeting-I feel sure that the wishes of the Society would be carried out. (Hear, hear.) The PRESIDENT.-I think a week or ten days would be as THE profession and the scientific world at large will hear early as we could promise. with profound regret that John Goodsir, the distinguished Mr. BURTON.—I will move, " That the meeting is satisfied with the assurance of the Council that the published statements shall occupant of the chair of Anatomy in the University of Edinbe circulated among the Fellows within a week or ten days of burgh, died on Wednesday last at Wardie. We shall take the present time." another opportunity of laying before our readers a detailed Dr. LANGMORE seconded the proposal. account of the life and labours of this great savant and sucThe PRESIDENT (who requested visitors to retire while the vote was being taken) put Mr. Burton’s proposal to the meet- cessful teacher. It must suffice in the meantime to record our conviction that, since the death of Cuvier, anatomical science ing, and it was carried by a large majority. The other business of the Society was then proceeded with. has sustained no loss so severe or so difficult to be replaced as that of John Goodsir.

1867.

THE SUSSEX

COUNTY HOSPITAL.

To the Editor of TIIE LANCET. SIR,—In your allusion to the twelve beds which were granted to the junior medical officers at the annual meeting of the Sussex County Hospital you say " Dr. Fussell took an active part in framing the alterations." Allow me to observe that such a desirable movement did not originate with an ordinary member of the committee. Its inauguration and successful issue were entirely due to the medical staff. In urging its necessity I pointed out that our physicians and surgeons were not obliged to retire at the age of sixty or sixty-five. I take this opportunity of stating that our statutes are still encumbered with those obsolete rules-that physicians should not practise midwifery-lately put aside at the Gloucester Infirmary, so graphically described as subjecting Dr. Evans for years to the res angusta domi, and so recently and earnestly commented upon in the columns of your journal. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, E. F. FUSSELL. Brighton, March 4th, 1867.

A BREAST-PUMP AND FEEDING-BOTTLE. To the Editor of THE LANCET. SIR,—Knowing how difficult it is to get nurses to attend properly to the state of the breasts where there is a tendency to acute inflammation and its results during lactation, and which, I believe, depends upon the want of an instrument easy in its application and simple in its mechanism for the purpose of drawing off the milk, I am desirous of calling the attention of my professional brethren to one which I have had in use for the last seven years, and which has proved most satisfactory in its action. It is a combination of breast-pump and feeding-bottle ; and its easy adaptability to both purposes will, I am sure, meet a great want. I have succeeded in twelve minutes in extracting six ounces of milk from a turgid and painful breast, thereby relieving the patient and at the same time preserving for the

DEATH OF DR. LIVINGSTONE. THE

great missionary explorer, Dr. Livingstone, has fallen a

victim to his fearless and devoted

enterprise. On the west of time between end of July and September, the Nyassa, he and his party were suddenly attacked. Half of their number were cut down, and Dr. Livingstone himself was felled by a blow from behind. The extent of the loss thus inflicted, not only in the cause of the diffusion of Christianity, but in natural and even medical science, we shall take early occasion to estimate and to deplore. some

Parliamentary Intelligence. HOUSE OF COMMONS. MARCH 1ST. MR. WALPOLE brought in two Bills for the extension of the Factory Acts-the first, relating to glass, copper, iron, brass, leather, india-rubber, paper, and tobacco works, and all manufactories employing more than 100 hands ; and the second, to workshops in which fewer than that number are employed, and affecting together nearly 1,400,000 workpeople. Under the first Bill the factories would be subjected to the provisions of the Factory Acts with regard to ventilation, hours of labour, and education; and there would be restrictions as to nightwork, women and children being prohibited from it altogether. The second Bill would prohibit the employment of children under eight years of age, and would regulate the employment of children between eight and thirteen years of age. MARCH 4TH. SANITARY STATE OF LIVERPOOL.

Mr. SAMUELSON inquired whether Mr. Taylor’s report rethe health of some parts of Liverpool would be laid

specting