CHINESE MATERIA MEDICA. 



His first paper (as distinguished from a journal article) 

 was on the resin of the NORWAY SPRUCE FIR (Abies 

 excelsci), and was read at an evening meeting, March 1, 

 1850, Mr. Peter Squire, President, in the chair, 



His contributions to the history of CHINESE MATERIA Chinese 



/r iiii 11 - i Materia 



MEDICA were probably his most elaborate venture in the Medica. 

 path of continuous research ; one series extended over 

 three years, and was prized highly by competent 

 authorities. Their scope placed them beyond the range 

 of ordinary readers, and it is doubtful whether the best 

 channel had been selected for their publication. A new 

 edition of these Notes on Chinese Materia Medica, with 

 additional notes, references, and map, is now given. 

 The original pamphlet was translated by his friend and 

 correspondent, Dr. Theodor W. C. Martius, into German 

 in 1863, under the title of Beitrdge zur Materia Medica 

 Chinas. The work contained the illustrative engravings, 

 but not the Chinese characters. 1 It was the practice of 

 the chief writers for the Pharmaceutical journal to correct 

 and arrange their own proofs. The printing-office was at Bh-ties the 

 the top of Beaufort Buildings, lately destroyed by fire. 

 There, it is related by a contributor engaged on bis own 

 manuscript, that the conscientious printer Birtles was 

 overheard loudly bewailing his fate. When asked the 

 reason why, he replied that Mr. Hanbury had sent in 

 some more Chinese, but a block not being properly 

 marked, he was not sure of the right way of printing. 

 " Chance it," was suggested. " No/' said the old man ; 

 " that might do with other people, but Mr. Hanbury is 

 very particular." 



Brief indeed must be the running comment on his 

 other contributions. 



1 Sppyer, 1863. Brack von Georg Kranzbiihler. 



