The present state of medicine in Sheffield : an introductory address delivered at the Sheffield School of Medicine, October 1st, 1866 / by J.H. Aveling.

  • Aveling, J. H. (James Hobson), 1828-1892.
Date:
[1866?]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: The present state of medicine in Sheffield : an introductory address delivered at the Sheffield School of Medicine, October 1st, 1866 / by J.H. Aveling. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    5/24 (page 5)
    <5 “ When we find a lady and gentleman, possessed of almost unequalled talent, bestowing their valuable services in skill, time, and money, in restoring to health our poor sisters and brothers, we cannot say too much in their praise, and we trust that they may be spared to us many years to come, showering those blessings around which none but high skilful practitioners can impart.” The quack clings firmly to the arm of the editor, and is proud to be allowed to appear in such respectable company, and this is the worst form of quack. At home he exhibits bottles of worms, coloured anatomical diagrams, and disgusting wax models. He is subtle, cunning, unscrupulous, and pitiless. His vampire nature revels in the spoliation and destruction of his victim. He seizes upon the ignorant, morbid, and credulous, makes them believe they have diseases which they have not, and frightens and threatens them until the last penny it out of their pockets; and all this cruel system of extortion and terrorism he carries on beneath a cloak of benevolence and disinterestedness. It appears that some of these vagabonds are now obtaining diplomas, professing to be American, simply by paying for them. The authorities of the Royal College of Surgeons have directed the attention of the American minister to this practice, and it is to be hoped that something will soon be done to stop it. Most of you have doubtless seen the following advertisement in the papers lately :—u Diploma (Medical) to be disposed of, a great bargain. This adver¬ tisement having been answered it was found that it came from an institution in New York. It was duly attested and signed, and a space left for the name of the purchaser. Most quacks simply assume a medical title, and in spite of the Medical Act continue to practice as qualified medical men. The public in general know nothing about