+ 
1 
| 
~ while the rationale of that effect is so hypothetical. 
It is enough to distract the tyro, to attempt to 
propound the contradictory opinions on this point: 
and it is more than enough to divert his attention 
from the main feature of the class—the therapeutic 
application of these remedies. I shall endeavour 
by familiar illustration to fix your attention on 
this point, when treating of the various medica- 
ments which belong to the head of these remarks. , 
For the present I have only to observe that tonics — 
are forbidden in all states of the system involving 
undue arterial action—and the instances are so 
few. in which a deviation from this rule may be 
proper, that they may profitably be passed bye, 
until your experience at the bed side, shall give 
you those lights to direct a safe aberration, which 
mere abstract reasoning or discourse can never af- 
ford. 
‘This may be a proper place to recapitulate the 
sectional division of positive tonics, which I have 
already proposed page 39 of these outlines, viz. 
2. Bitter tonics. — 
3. Astringent tonics. 
* 4. Aromatic tonics yielding essential oil. 
5, Warm tonics, or those possessing aroma, but 
yielding no essential oil ; or if any, not com- 
municating the whole of its effects to the sys- 
tem. as when exhibited in the native state of 
existence in the substance itself. ae 
Ishall fill up these outlines, by a full exposition: 
of all the- substances pertaining properly, in my 
estimation, to each of those sections—and I shall 
do this the more carefully, because I believe and 
shall endeavour to shew, that important practical 
inferences are deducible from this dispasition— 
The extent of the class ; the variety in the promi- 
R 2 
fay 
