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opinion shows the feeling of the great mass of the people upon this 

 subject. All kinds and classes, with wonderful unanimity, join in 

 testifying as to adulteration. This being the case, we are led to con- 

 clude that adulteration is general. The letters presented show the 

 character of these sophistications to be principally of a harmless (to 

 health but not to the pocket) character. In many instances, however, 

 poisons and injurious adulterants are used. The classification by 

 States seems to be the best and easiest method of arrangement, and has, 

 therefore, been selected. It will be seen that letters, extracts, reports, 

 etc., have been received from many States showing that no part of the 

 country is free from this nefarious practice. It will be observed that 

 nearly all the State officials and representative tradesmen who touch 

 on the subject unite in urging the passage of a national food and drug 

 law for the protection of legitimate industry and our interstate and 

 foreign commerce, as well as the public health. 

 3183 No. 41 2 



