CASE 175,827. Impotency, Constipation, and Seminal Loss at Stool and with the Urine.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—Since I have taken the remainder of a third month's treatment that you gave me I have been relieved of my trouble. The emissions have ceased and the losses at stool and in the water have left me. Eighteen months ago I was almost a complete wreck; now I take an Interest in business and am in excellent health.

Respectfully, S., Waveland, Ind.

CASE 177,068. Spermatorrhea. Loss of vital strength. Cared with seven months' treatment.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—You have undoubtedly wondered at my long silence. Since last I wrote you there has been a marked change in my life (of which I will speak further on), under your skillful treatment. I improved so rapidly, notwithstanding the many interruptions which misfortune on my part occasioned, that six months ago I considered myself cured. I have been married three months and a half to a worthy woman, who should have gained for herself a husband who never deviated from a virtuous path as much as I; but the attachment formed was so strong that no misfortune seemed powerful enough to sever it. The barrier which seemed insurmountable, and which I had erected myself by early indiscretions and excesses, has given way, thanks to your superior medical knowledge and skillful treatment. Again I can hold up my head and say, "I am a man. I never fail to call the attention of my friends to your Institution as the best in the world, for I have reason to know that it is truly so. I have recommended two friends of mine to you, who are under your treatment, and are getting well. One has tried all the local physicians, and many firms, but with no success. May God bless you, and may your Institution meet with all the success it so richly deserves, is the prayer and wish of one you have caved. J., Leadville, Colo.

[pg 788]CASE 178,666. Emissions, and Loss of Weight and Strength.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I have had no emissions now for some time, and feel well in every way. I am gaining in strength and weight, and find I shall not need further medical treatment. The four months' medicines that you have sent me have effected a radical regeneration in my health, and I thank you for it. M., Hartford, Conn.

CASE 111,477. Spermatorrhea and Irritable Bladder; cured by two months' treatment.

This was a badly complicated case of spermatorrhea, the patient being also troubled with frequent urination, partial impotency, mucous discharges from the urethra, and a burning sensation in the testicle and groin.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—I took the two months' treatment sent me by you as directed. After taking the first month's treatment the emissions ceased entirely, my appetite increased, and I slept much better. Eight months ago I finished the second month's treatment and have since been in perfect health. I am fully convinced that you do every thing that you promise. I am, gentlemen, yours respectfully,

R., Fort Totten, Dakota.

CASE 266,080. Spermatorrhea. Threatened Impotency. A severe case, cured by six months' treatment.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I have received the last medicine sent me, and have taken all with the best results. I have so improved in health that I think it unnecessary for me to take any more medicine. It is now several days since I took the last of the medicine, and have not had any return of the disease. The desire to masturbate seems to have left me, and I feel well, happy and strong. When I look back to the time before I commenced to take your medicine, the change that has taken place seems wonderful. I had lost all hope of being restored from the ruinous habit I had practiced for many years without knowing how fatal it was to health. I tried hard to stop the practice, but it had grown so strong on me that I would always practice it again, and was fast becoming impotent. Had emissions at night; was nervous, downhearted; and I lost flesh, and felt miserable in many ways too numerous to mention. But now I feel healthy and well. If I had been more careful, and had not stopped treatment so soon before, I might have been cured in four or five months. Nevertheless, I am well satisfied, and thankful that I am restored to health in six months; and I wish to express my sincere thanks to you and your Institution, for I owe my restoration to health and happiness to you. If in the future I need any medical skill, I shall always apply to your Institution, being certain of receiving the best attention. Yours thankfully, S., Pittsburgh, Pa.

CASE 62,365. Very Bad Case of Spermatorrhea and Impotency. Cured with six months' treatment.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—It has now been nine months since I stopped your treatment, and as there has been no return of former symptoms, I judge there can be no doubt as to my cure being permanent. I must confess that, having been duped and swindled by so many previous to visiting you, I had not much confidence when I went to Buffalo to see you. But your specialists, and your Manager, seemed to talk so straightforwardly and without making any of those extravagant promises that I have become so used to, that I became convinced of your skill before I had been long in your wonderful Institution. I think almost any invalid who will visit your Hotel, and see for themselves the wonderful appliances that you have accumulated for the cure of disease, must soon become convinced that if there can be any hope of relief it can be secured there, if anywhere. There I saw those who told me they had been brought there on beds or couches for hundreds of miles, and that they had not been able to walk for two to four years, and yet with two or three months' treatment were able to go about everywhere, and were about ready to return home. Such experiences as these established my confidence, and to-day I bless the day I first visited the Invalids' Hotel. True, it took six months to cure me, but I presume you seldom have cases to equal in severity the condition I was in when I applied to you. I was so bad, as you will remember, though I do not suppose you rely upon any thing but your records in referring to cases, having so many under treatment at all times, at all events, if you will turn to the record of my case, which is "File No. 62,365," you will see that I had discharges of semen every time my bowels moved and without erections. In fact, I was completely impotent. I am now as strong and vigorous as any man. You told me it would probably take a year to cure me, but as you accomplished it in five months, though I continued to take medicine a month longer to insure against a relapse, I think myself very fortunate. Should any of your staff have occasion to come this way, I should be only to glad to do any thing I can to entertain them.

Gratefully yours,
C., St. Louis, Mo.

[pg 789]CASE 183,998. General Debility. Emissions and Loss of Energy. Urinary Irritation.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—The reason for my not continuing treatment further than the fourth month, is the fact that my health is so much improved that I do not need it. I feel like a new being. All of my bad symptoms are gone, and I feel that I am cured. For eight months my health has continued to improve all the time. I owe you and your staff a debt of gratitude that I can never pay.

Yours with thanks, H., Johnson's Bayou, La.

CASE 152,504. Spermatorrhea.

Mr. S., of Bagwell, Texas, writes as follows: "language fails to express my gratitude for what your treatment has done for me. I have gained forty-two pounds since coming under your care. My cure is perfect."

CASE 174,628. Spermatorrhea. Extremely bad case. Loss of voice; threatened with Consumption.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I am thankful to say that as a result of eight months' treatment you have given me, the symptoms of my disease have been entirely removed. My voice has got strong and clear, and my breathing is easy and natural. My weight is increased, and in every way I am feeling well. I cannot refrain from penning a few lines.

H., Port Hope, Ont.

CASE 113,274. Spermatorrhea.

Mr. K., of Kalamazoo, Mich., writes: "I feel that you have proven to be the best friend I have on earth. It is about three weeks now since I finished the last month's medicines, and I feel as strong as I ever did in my life. When I commenced taking your medicines I only weighed 155 pounds, but now I weigh 170 pounds. I feel strong and rugged; my step is firm and bold; and I feel altogether a new man, for which I return you my sincere thanks."

CASE 173,399. Emissions. Loss of Weight and Appetite; Dyspepsia.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Dear Sirs—I write to let you know that my health is improved, and to thank you for the same. The emissions occur only at intervals of several months, and I do not have any more polluting dreams. I am better in every way. My appetite is improved, and my digestion is perfect. Have gained in weight, and sleep well. I have not required all of the last supply of medicine, the sixth month, and I think I will pull through all right. Please accept my thanks for the benefit effected.

D., Valparaiso, Ind.

CASE 45,757. Spermatorrhea.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—Received yours dated Oct. 27th, and am happy to say that I have so far recovered as to believe further treatment unnecessary. I feel like a new man; am able to do a full day's work without pain or laziness. I am very thankful for the benefits I have received through your skill, and should I think it necessary at any time for me to renew the treatment, I will be glad to call on you.

Yours with great respect. A., Zanesville, O.

CASE 175,315. Spermatorrhea; Dizziness and Biliousness; Dyspepsia.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I am in good health, and can say that I am cured. The emissions have stopped, and I have no unnatural discharges, nor dizziness in the head. My health is good in general, and I work hard every day. Physically, I have a good appetite and digestion, which is a great change from what it was when you first treated me. Although I continued the treatment for eight months, owing to the complications and severity of my case, yet I am thankful for the great relief.

D., Newport, Ark.

CASE 39,625. Seminal and Nervous Debility.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—My case was one of long standing, and had brought me to think and meditate more of dying a consumptive's death, than living. The ill success I had met in trying to recover my lost manhood, had put me in such a constantly low-spirited condition, that nothing was interesting or pleasurable. I am highly pleased to report the improvement in my condition. My voice, weak and hoarse when I commenced treatment, is now strong and masculine. Hope and self-confidence have returned, and my countenance is firm and resolute. The dull, heavy, pressing pain under my left shoulder, is entirely gone, long ago. The pain and weakness in hips, back, and side, are never felt. I am in every way fully restored to perfect health and manhood.

Yours sincerely, O. Sheboygan, Mich.

[pg 790]CASE 67,546. Spermatorrhea. Cured In four months.

[EXTRACT FROM LETTER.]

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—It is with great pleasure that I write you. I have taken but one month's treatment from you, and if I should just give you a full history of my case before and since I have taken your medicine, you would not believe the improvement could be true. I feel better every way. I am without language to express my thanks to you for the great work you have done for me.

Your ever true friend,
B., Blountville, Sullivan Co., Tenn.

CASE 22,511. Impotency.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Dear Sirs—Accept my thanks for the great benefit received from your treatment. I never thought I could be so fully restored.

G., Peru, Ind.

CASE 450,422. Spermatorrhea, Seminal Debility, Muscular Rheumatism. Cured with six months' treatment.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I am thankful to say that, as the result of the six months' treatment you have given me, that I am cured of my trouble. Since the beginning of the treatment the losses became less and less frequent, and now I am entirely relieved, and desire to return my sincerest thanks to you for the good you have done and the kind attention that you gave me.

Sincerely yours, G., Milverton, Ont.

CASE 48,927. Nervous Debility and Impotency.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Dear Sirs—My head is clear and I feel like myself again, and now only wish that the money I spent for useless medicines and experimenting doctors, had at once found its way to you. By recommending you to others suffering as I did, I hope to assist in your honorable work. For my restoration to health and manhood, I am deeply grateful.

Truly yours, B., Philadelphia, Pa.

CASE 154,136. Seminal Weakness.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—I see no further use in continuing your medicines, as I now feel perfectly well and the emissions have stopped entirely. I used to feel dizzy, exhausted, and irritable on arising in the morning, but now I feel nothing of the kind.

Respectfully, K., Johnstown, Pa.

CASE 175,391. Spermatorrhea, with symptoms of Bright's Disease and Torpid Liver.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—When I applied to you for treatment, although a man of apparently perfect health, yet I was subject to an exhausting drain, and felt myself gradually declining in vigor of intellect and constitution. The five months' treatment that you have sent me has effected a very remarkable change in my health. My kidneys (which had troubled me so that I feared Bright's disease) and torpid liver have become natural, and I feel like a new man. The only precaution I now take is not to sleep on my back; and I feel that I am cured. I send you the names of some other patients, and close by saying that I thank you sincerely for the cure, and the great benefit in my health that has resulted from your treatment.

M., Manhattan, Kans.

CASE 110,837, Stricture and Spermatorrhea.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—My seminal trouble was cured long since, and I had forgotten it. Your medicines relieved me of that in a short time, and I am satisfied that it will cure the worst cases in a few weeks. I am also satisfied that you and your faculty accomplish more in the healing art than any other in the country, and I cannot say too much in recommendation of your institution. I have tried your institution, and have found your words true in every sense, and take pleasure in authorizing you to use my name in any way to suit yourself. My appetite is good, and I have no pain or trouble whatever. The neuralgia in the lungs, the tough phlegm, weakness, etc., have all disappeared.

A.

CASE 111,571. Spermatorrhea.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—Under the influence of your last course of medicine my health has improved so greatly that I feel any further treatment to be unnecessary. My health is better now than at any other period for years. The night emissions have ceased entirely, I not having had one now for many months. I feel better in every way.

Respectfully,
P. Pittsburgh, Pa.

[pg 791]CASE 57,757. Lost Sexual Power Regained.

[EXTRACT FROM LETTER.]

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—While taking your medicine I labored physically. I am cheerful, hopeful, joyous, glad, and grateful for my restoration to sound and vigorous health. My friends daily express surprise at the great change in my personal appearance, and declare that I appear younger than I did fifteen years ago. I always reply that I obtained my new lease of life from the World's Dispensary Medical Association, Buffalo, N.Y.

With sincere gratitude and great respect, I subscribe myself W., Canyon City, Grant Co., Oregon.

CASE 3,508. Seminal and Nervous Debility of thirty years' standing. Cured in two mouths.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: My kind Benefactors—Inclosed find the case of my daughter-in-law, whom I desire you to treat, believing that you can cure her. I feel assured that if you fail in the cure of her case, now so chronic, that no human skill will be of benefit.

Some four or five years ago you treated me for general debility and premature decay, with severe attacks of vertigo. The first month's medicines, which were sent by express, effected a relief of my case. Owing to the long standing of my trouble (twenty-five or thirty years), I concluded to continue the treatment another month. My order was promptly filled by mail. By these two months' treatment I was perfectly cured, my whole system renovated and invigorated. I have been repeatedly asked what I had been doing to cause such an improvement in my personal appearance, and activity, for an old man. With profound gratitude, adding love,

I am your obedient servant,
W., Rusk, Texas.

CASE 250,336. Spermatorrhea; loss of Strength and Weakness of Memory. Cured with seven months' treatment.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I have not taken any medicine since last December, at which time I had closed the seventh months' treatment. I am happy to say that, as a result, my mind is clear and easy. I am steadily gaining in strength, and feel better than I have for many years, and owe it all to your treatment and advice. I hope you will live long and prosper, and continue to dispense a balm for suffering humanity. I will close by giving your faculty my greatest devotion and sincere thanks, and hope success will crown your business.

W., Pickens, Miss.

CASE 82,127. Spermatorrhea.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—Your last month's treatment has entirely cured me. I have been married three weeks and am happy, thanks to your unexampled skill.

B., Blackberry, Kane Co., Ill.

CASE 88,736. Spermatorrhea.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—Sure enough I am well, and I desire to thank you for your medical skill. My strength is very greatly increased, my digestion and appetite are perfect. I sleep well and awake refreshed, and, in fact, feel better every way. My eyesight, which was weak, is wonderfully improved, and my physical condition is now perfect in every way. All the emissions have ceased.

Respectfully,
B., Fayette, Howard Co., Mo.

CASE 144,241. Seminal Debility. Cured with four months' treatment.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: Gentlemen—I am happy to say that your treatment, which I have taken four months, has effected a radical cure of my trouble, and you are at liberty to use my name and address as a reference. Your treatment has effected a cure in my case.

Very truly yours,
M., Trout Creek, N.Y.

CASE 71,250. Spermatorrhea of thirteen years' standing.

WORLD'S DISPENSARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, Buffalo, N.Y.: Gentlemen—I can honestly say, as the result of your treatment, that I feel better now than at any time previous for years. My disease is under complete control, and I have no fear of any further trouble in that direction. In a word, I feel that I am cured and well; and you may rest assured that I shall take great pains to avoid in the future the cause that brought me to my former condition. I am, indeed, thankful to you, as your treatment has made it possible for me to lead a better life, and effectually to resist those passions which so long dominated over me.

I remain, very respectfully yours,
H, Council Bluffs, Iowa

Mr. Davis, of England, having a collection of about eighteen hundred cranial specimens obtained from different quarters of the globe, ascertained the relative volume of brain in different races, by filling the skulls with dry sand. He found that the European averaged 92 cubic inches, the Oceanic 89, the Asiatic 88, the African 86, the Australian 81. Dr. Morton, of Philadelphia, had a collection of over one thousand skulls, and his conclusions were that the Caucasian brain is the largest, the Mongolian next in size, the Malay and American Indian smaller, and the Ethiopian smallest of all. The average weight of brain, in 278 Europeans, was 49.50 oz., in 24 White American soldiers, 52.06 oz., indicating a greater average for the American brain.

The weight of the human brain varies from 40 to 70 oz.; that of idiots from 12 to 36 40 oz. The average of 273 male European brains was 49½ oz., while that of 191 females was 44 oz. If we compare the weight of the female brain with that of the body, the ratio is found to be as 1:36.46, while that of the male is as 1:36.50; showing that, relatively, the female brain is the larger. It appears that neither the absolute nor relative size of the cerebrum, but the amount of gray matter which it contains, is the criterion of mental power. Although a large cerebrum is generally indicative of more gray matter than a small one, yet it is ascertained that the grey substance depends upon the number, and depth of the convolutions of the brain, and the deeper its fissures, the more abundant is this tissue. It is this substance which is the source of thought, while the white portion only transmits impressions.

We do not wish to underrate any attempt heretofore made to classify the functions of mind and assign to them an appropriate nomenclature. It is not unusual for scientists to give advice to phrenologists and point out the fallacies of their system; but it is hardly worth while to indulge in destructive criticism, unless something better is offered, as the day has passed for ridiculing endeavors to understand and interpret the physiology of the brain. The all important question is, not whether phrenologists have properly located and rightly earned all the faculties of mind, but have their expositions been useful in the development of truth. While endeavoring to connect each mental power with a local habitation in the brain, the system of phrenology may be chargeable with some incongruous classification of the faculties, and yet it has furnished an analysis of the mind which has been of incalculable service to writers upon mental philosophy. Phrenology, in popularizing its views, has interested thousands in their own organizations and powers, who would otherwise have remained indifferent. It has called attention to mental and bodily unities, has served as a guide to explain the physical and psychical characteristics of individuals, and has been instrumental in applying physiological and hygienic principles to the habits of life, thus rendering a service for which the world is greatly indebted. Samuel George Morton, M.D., whose eminent abilities and scholarship are unquestionable, employs the following language:"The importance of the brain as the seat of the faculties of the mind, is pre-eminent in the animal economy. Hence, the avidity with which its structure and functions have been studied in our time; for, although much remains to be explained, much has certainly been accomplished. We have reason to believe, not only that the brain is the center of the whole series of mental manifestations, but that its several parts are so many organs, each one of which performs its peculiar and distinctive office. But the number, locality, and functions of these several organs are far from being determined; nor should this uncertainty surprise us, when we reflect on the slow and devious process by which mankind has arrived at some of the simplest physiological truths, and the difficulties that environ all inquiries into the nature of the organic functions."

Illustration: Fig. 77. Side view of the brain of a Cat.
Fig. 77. Side view of the brain of a Cat. A. Crucial sulcus dividing anterior convolutions. B. Fissure of Sylvius. C. Olfactory bulb.

We may here allude to the recent experimental researches with reference to the functions of various portions of the brain, prosecuted by Dr. Ferrier, of England. He applied the electric current to different parts of the cortical substance of the cerebrum in lower animals which had been rendered insensible by chloroform, and by it could call forth muscular actions expressive of ideas and emotions. Thus, in a cat, the application of the electrodes at point 2, Fig. 77, caused elevation of the shoulder and adduction of the limb, exactly as when a cat strikes a ball with its paw; at point 4, corrugation of the left eye-brow, and the drawing inward and downward of the left ear; when applied at point 5, the animal exhibited signs of pain, screamed, and kicked with both hind legs, especially the left, at the same time turned its head around and looked behind in an astonished manner; at point 6, clutching movement of the left paw, with protrusion of the claws; at point 13, twitching backward of the left ear, and rotation of the head to the left and slightly upward, as if the animal were listening; at point 17, restlessness, opening of the mouth, and long-continued cries as if of rage or pain; at a point on the under side of the hemisphere, not shown in this figure, the animal started up, threw back its head, opened its eyes widely, lashed its tail, panted, screamed and spit as if in furious rage; and at point 20, sudden contraction of the muscles of the front of the chest and neck, and of the depressors (muscles) of the lower jaw, with panting movements. The movements of the paws were drawn inward by stimulating the region between points 1, 2, and 6; those of the eyelids and face were excited between 7 and 8; the side movements of the head and ear in the region between points 9 and 14; and the movements of the mouth, tongue and jaws, with certain associated movements of the neck, being localized in the convolutions bordering on the fissure of Sylvius (B), which marks the division between the anterior and middle lobes of the cerebrum. Dr. Ferrier made similar experiments on dogs, rabbits, and monkeys. The series of experiments made on the brain of the monkey is said to be the most remarkable and interesting, not only because of the variety of movements and distinctly expressive character of this animal, but on account of the close conformity which the simple arrangement of the convolutions of its brain bears to their more complex disposition in the human cerebrum. It is premature to say what import we shall attach to these experiments, but they have established the correctness of the doctrine, advanced on page 105, that thought, the product of cerebral functions, is a class of reflex actions. The cerebrum is not only the source of ideas but also of those co-ordinate movements which correspond to and accompany these ideas. Certain cerebral changes call forth mental states and muscular movements which are mutually responsive. They indicate that various functions are automatic, or dependent upon the will, and, as we have seen, experiments indicate that the electric current, when applied to the cerebrum, excites involuntary reflex action. We cannot say how far these experimental results justify the phrenological classification of the faculties of mind, by establishing a causative relation between the physical and psychical states. This short and unsatisfactory account furnishes one fact which seems to support the claim of such a relation: the apparent similarity between the motor center of the lips and tongue in lower animals, and that portion of the human cerebrum in which disease is so often found to be associated with Aphasia, or loss of voice. While these experiments are by no means conclusive in establishing a theory, yet they favor it.

It is wonderful that nervous matter can be so arranged as not only to connect the various organs of the body, but at the same time to be the agent of sensation, thought, and emotion. It is amazing, that a ray of light, after traversing a distance of 91,000,000 miles, can, by falling upon the retina, and acting as a stimulus, not only produce a contraction of the pupil, but excite thoughts which analyze that ray, instantly spanning the infinitude of trackless space! The same penetrative faculties, with equal facility, can quickly and surely discern the morbid symptoms of body and mind, become familiar with the indications of disease, and classify them scientifically among the phenomena of nature. The symptoms of disease which follow certain conditions as regularly as do the signs of development, and mind itself is no exception to this uniformity of nature. Thoughts result from conditions, and manifest them as evidently as the falling of rain illustrates the effect of gravity. The perceptive and highest emotive faculties of man depend upon this simple, but marvelously endowed nervous substance, which blends the higher spiritual with the lower physical functions. The functions of the body are performed by separate organs, distinguished by peculiar characteristics. To elucidate the distinctions between dissimilar, mental faculties, we have assigned their functions, with characteristic names, to different regions of the head. As they unquestionably influence the bodily organs, we are sustained by physical analogy, in our classification. Our knowledge of the structure and functions of the nervous system is yet elementary, and we are patiently waiting for scientists to develop its facts, and verify them by experimental investigations and such researches as time alone can bring to perfection. While real progress moves with slow and measured foot-steps, the inspirations of consciousness and the inferences of logic prepare the popular mind for cerebral analysis. No true system can contradict the facts of our inner experience; it can only furnish a more complete explanation of their relation to the bodily organs. It should be expected that such careful and pains-taking experiments, as are necessary to establish a science, will be preceded by intuitive judgments and accredited observations, which may be, for a time, the substitutes of those more abstruse in detail.

We have, in accordance with popular usage, treated the organs of thought as having anatomical relations. The views which we have presented in this chapter may seem speculative, but the facts suggesting the theory demand attention, and we have attempted to gather a few of the scattered fragments and arrange them in some order, rather than leave them to uncertainty and greater mystery. It is by method and classification that we are enabled to apply our knowledge to practical purposes. Possibly, to some, especially the non-professional, an allusion to the fact that cerebral physiology contributes to successful results in the practice of medicine, may seem to be an exaggerated pretension. None, however, who are conversant with the facts connected with the author's experience, will so regard this practical reference, for the statement might be greatly amplified without exceeding the bounds of truth. Physicians generally undervalue the nervous functions, and overlook the importance of the brain as an indicator of the conditions of the physical system, because they are not sufficiently familiar with its influence over the bodily functions. Pathological conditions are faithfully represented by the thoughts, and words, when used to describe symptoms, become the symbols of feelings which arise from disease. How few physicians there are who can interpret the thoughts, and glean, from the expressions and sentences of a letter, a correct idea of the morbid conditions which the writer wishes to portray! Each malady, as well as every temperament, has its characteristics, and both require careful and critical analysis before subjecting the patient to the influence of remedial agents.

In a treatise by Dr. J.R. Buchanan, entitled "Outlines of Lectures on the Neurological System of Anthropology," are presented original ideas pre-eminently useful to the physician. His researches, and those of later writers, together with our own investigations, have greatly increased our professional knowledge. It is by such studies and investigations that we have been prepared to interpret, with greater facility, the indications of disease, and diagnose accurately from symptoms, which have acquired a deeper significance by the light of cerebral physiology. We are enabled to adapt remedies to constitutions and their varying conditions, with a fidelity and scientific precision which has rendered our success in treatment widely known and generally acknowledged. We annually treat thousands of invalids whom we have never beheld, and relieve them of their ailments. This has been accomplished chiefly through correspondence. When patients have failed to delineate their symptoms currently, or have given an obscure account of their ailments, we have been materially assisted in ascertaining the character of the disease by photographs of the subjects. The cerebral conformation indicates the predisposition of the patient, and enables us to estimate the strength of his recuperative energies. Thus we have a valuable guide in the selection of remedies particularly suited to different constitutions. In the treatment of chronic diseases, the success attending our efforts has been widely appreciated, not only in this, but in other countries where civilization, refinement, luxurious habits, and effeminating customs, prevail. This fact is mentioned, not only as an illustration of the personal benefits actually derived from a thorough knowledge of the nervous system, but to show how generally and extensively these advantages have been shared by others.

A careful study of cerebral physiology leads us deeper into the mysteries of the human constitution, and to the philosophical contemplation of the relations of mind and body. Self-culture implies not only a knowledge of the powers of the mind, but also how to direct and use them for its own improvement, and he who has the key to self-knowledge, can unlock the mysteries of human nature and be eminently serviceable to the worlds For centuries the mind has been spreading out its treasury of revelations, to be turned to practical account, in ascertaining the constitution, and determining better methods of treating disease. Since comparative anatomists and physiologists have revealed the structure of animals and the functions of their organs, from the lowest protozoan to the highest vertebrate, the physician may avail himself of this knowledge, and thus gain a deeper insight into the structure and physiology of man. An intimate acquaintance with the physical, is a necessary preparation for the study of the psychical life, for it leads to the understanding of their mutual relations and reactions, both in health and disease.

Consciousness, or the knowledge of sensations and mental operations, has been variously defined. It is employed as a collective term to express all the psychical states, and is the power by which the soul knows its own existence. It is the immediate knowledge of any object whatever, and seems to comprise, in its broadest signification, both matter and mind, for all objects are inseparable from the cognizance of them. Hence, the significance of the terms, subjective-consciousness and objective-consciousness. People are better satisfied with their knowledge of matter than with their conceptions of the nature of mind.

THE NATURE OF MIND.

Since this subject is being discussed by our most distinguished scientists, we will conclude this chapter with an extract from a lecture delivered by Prof. Burt G. Wilder, at the American Institute:

"There now remains to be disposed of, in some way, the question as to the nature and reality of mind, which was rather evaded at the commencement of the lecture. The reason was, that I am forced to differ widely from the two great physiologists whom I have so often quoted this evening. Most people, following in part early instruction, in part revelation, in part spiritual manifestations, and in part trusting to their own consciousness, hold that the human mind is a spiritual substance which is associated with the body during the life of the latter in this world, and which remains in existence after the death of the body, and forms the spiritual clothing or embodiment of the immortal soul; and that the individual, therefore, lives after death as a spirit in the human form; that of this spiritual man, the soul is the essential being, of which may be predicted a good or evil nature, while the mind, which clothes it as a body, consists of the spiritual substances, affections, and thoughts, which were cherished and formed during the natural life.

Together with the above convictions respecting themselves, most people, when thinking independently of theological sublimations, feel willing to admit that animals have, in common with man, fewer or more natural affections and thoughts which make up their minds, but that the inner and immortal soul, which would retain them as part of an individual after death of the body, is not possessed by the beasts that perish. In short, the vast majority of mankind, when thinking quietly, and especially in seasons of bereavement, feel well assured of the real and substantial existence of the human mind, independently of its temporary association with the perishable body.

But in antagonism to this simple and comforting faith, stand theological incomprehensibilities on the one hand, and scientific skepticism on the other. The former would have us believe that the soul is a mere vapor, a cloud of something ethereal, of which can be expected nothing more useful than 'loafing around the Throne,' while the latter asks us to recognize the existence of nothing which the eyes cannot see and fingers touch; to cease imagining that there is a soul, and to regard the mind as merely the product of the brain; secreted thereby as the liver secretes bile. Let us hear what the two leading nervous physiologists, of this country, have to say upon this point:

'The brain is not, strictly speaking, the organ of the mind, for this statement would imply that the mind exists as a force, independent of the brain; but the mind is produced by the brain substance; and intellectual force, if we may term the intellect a force, can be produced only by the transmutation of a certain amount of matter; there can be no intelligence without brain substance.'—FLINT.

'The mind may be regarded as a force, the result of nervous action, and characterized by the ability to perceive sensations, to be conscious, to understand, to experience emotions, and to will in accordance therewith. Of these qualities, consciousness resides exclusively in the brain, but the others, as is clearly shown by observation and experiment, cannot be restricted to that organ, but are developed with more or less intensity, in other parts of the nervous system.'—HAMMOND.

Thus do the two extremes of theology and science meet upon a common ground of dreamy emptiness, and we who confess our comparative ignorance are comforted by the thought that some other things have been 'hid from the wise and prudent and revealed unto babes.' Yet, while feeling thus, it must be admitted that the existence of spirit and of a Creator do not yet seem capable of logical demonstration. The denial of their existence is not incompatible with a profound acquaintance with material forms and their operations; and, on the other hand, the belief in their existence and substantial nature, and in their powers as first causes, have never interfered with the recognition of the so-called material forces, and of the organisms through which they are manifested. At present, at least, these are purely matters of faith; but although the Spiritualist (using the term in its broadest sense as indicating a belief in spirits), may feel that his faith discloses a beauty and perfection in the union, otherwise imperceptible by him, there is no reason why this difference in faith should make him despise or quarrel with his materialist co-worker, for the latter may do as good service to science, may be as true a man, and live as holy a life, although from other motives.

The differences between religious sects are mainly of faith, not of works, and the wise of all denominations are gradually coming to the conviction that they will all do God more service by toleration and co-operation than by animosity and disunion. And so I hold that, until the spiritualist feels himself able to demonstrate to the unbeliever the existence of spirit and of God, as convincingly as a mathematical proposition, there should be no hard words or feelings upon these points. For the present they are immaterial in every sense of the word; and so long as he bows to the facts and the laws of Nature, and deals with his fellow men as he would be done by, so long will I work with him, side by side, knowing, even though I cannot tell him so, that whether or not he joins me in this world, we shall meet in the other world to come, where his eyes will be opened, and where his lips will at least acquit me of bigotry and intolerance."