ANNALS 
PHILOSOPHY. 
APRIL, 1816. 
Articte I. 
Biographical Account of the late John Robison, LL. D. F. R.S.E. 
and Professor of Natural Philosophy in the University of Edin- 
burgh. By John Playfair, F.R.S, L. & E. &c. 
(Concluded from p. 183.) 
In December, 1785, Mr. Robison was attacked by a severe dise 
order, which, with but few intervals of relaxation, continued to 
afflict him to the end of his life, and which, though borne with 
much resignation, and resisted with singular fortitude, could not 
but at length impair both the vigour and the continuity of his exer- 
tions. The disorder seemed to be situated between the urethra and 
the perineum. At times it was accompanied with the severest pain, 
and with violent spasms, which were easily excited. The disease, 
however, was only known by the pain produced; and never, by any 
visible or palpable symptom, gave information of its nature, as no 
change in the parts which were the seat of it could ever be observed. 
A complaint of this nature it is evident must have less chance of 
being removed than any other, and it accordingly baffled the art of 
the most skilful medical men both in Edinburgh and London. 
Notwithstanding this state of suffering, his general health was 
not for a long time materially injured, nor the powers of his mind 
relaxed, so that.he continued to prosecute study with vigour and 
steadiness, A malady which was both severe and chronical admitted 
of no palliative so good as the comfort of domestic society, which 
Mr. Robison happily enjoyed, having married soon after he settled 
in Edinburgh. ‘The care and attention of Mrs. Robison, and the 
affectionate regards of his children, as they grew up, were. blessings 
R 
Vor. VU, N° IV. 
