MUL TI PLICA TION OF DISEA SE GERMS. T 8 7 



if I should obtain but a single specimen of small in- 

 testine in which I could not demonstrate diseased and 

 altered villi. So far I have found them, without ex- 

 ception, in every case I have examined, and hence I 

 have been led to form the above opinion, which 

 becomes stronger as I work on.* 



Multiplication of the Disease Germs in the Infected 

 Organism. From the observations already advanced 

 concerning the size of the smallest living particles 

 capable of growing and multiplying, it will be inferred 

 that the actual quantity of contagious bioplasm suffi- 

 cient to produce a contagious disease is wonderfully 

 small, and that within the organism this minute par- 

 ticle multiplies a million-fold. 



The contagious disease p;erms, like particles of 

 germinal matter in inflammation, multiply enor- 

 mously, not only in the blood vessels (Plates XXIV 

 and XXV), but after having passed through the 

 capillary walls, and gained the interstices of the 

 tissues, Plate XXVI, they grow there, and not only 



* I regret to have to notice here that a distinguished pathologist has 

 stated that he has failed to confirm my observations upon the villi. It 

 would have been but fair had he taken the trouble to look at my speci- 

 mens before condemning my statements. It is probable he did not 

 employ a method of examination which would afford a chance of success 

 certain that he did not proceed as recommended. Such hasty and 

 confident assertions are calculated to excite distrust in the minds of 

 many, but this cannot be helped. The observer simply records the facts, 

 and if others, who have not taken the trouble to ascertain whether they 

 are true or not, think proper to contradict him positively, he cannot 

 prevent the practice. Speaking solely from what he has actually ob- 

 served, and delineating carefully what he has seen, he may safely leave 

 to those who contradict his observations the satisfaction of registering 

 their contradiction. 



