INTRODUCTION. Jx 



which the least breeze would scatter to the winds, 

 ■and a few minute drops, are all the direful weapons. 

 The drops are not always the pure extract of the 

 'medicinal plants, but are sometimes diluted to a 

 decillionth of their strength ; and even the smell- 

 sing at some of these substances is said to be occa- 

 sionally sufficient to work miracles. 



All our medical knowledge is tlie result of experi- 

 ence ; and the reason why we have made so little 

 progress in medicine is, that its professors have not 

 divested themselves of that narrow-minded adherence 

 to ancient maxims, which rejects all experimental 

 results that are not recognised in their dogmas. 



I look upon the immeasurable realms of medicine 

 as a republic, founded for the welfare and prosperity 

 of mankind. There should be neither exclusive 

 authority, nor respect of persons. The members of 

 this commonwealth, in wandering with measured 

 tread about its sometimes gloomy precincts, will, by 

 careful research find some untrodden paths, which lead 

 to undiscovered treasures. It is thus that I have spent 

 the greater part of my life, and I am desirous of point- 

 ing out to others the road which I found most 

 agreeable and safe. It is unlike that followed by 

 many of our contemporaries, who, infatuated by their 

 own system, drag their patients over gulfs and 

 precipices. Mine is a smooth and middle course ; 

 following so much only of every other as I 

 have, by the observation of many years, proved use- 

 ful. Moreover, this new path is easier, less perilous, 

 more agreeable, and less expensive. 



During the latter years of my residence at Lahore, 

 xr\y practice was corwned with the greatest success ; 

 and after having scrutinized my theory^ I became 



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