THE ISTHMUS OF PANAMA. 95 



must be considered as exceptions, and their number 

 is very small. The effect of stimulants is to derange 

 the functions of the liver, which is also the effect of 

 the climate ; and under the influence of both, there 

 are few constitutions that can long resist diseases. 

 I have no expectation of convincing the public of 

 this fact, for many are too blindly conceited in their 

 own opinions to regard the advice of any one, and 

 such usually work out their experience at a fearful 

 cost. Under the influence of the first debilitating 

 effects of the climate, nothing is more natural than 

 the suggestion to " take a little brandy to prop up 

 the energies of the system ;" and there are always 

 enough to give this advice, and participate in the 

 administration ; and for a time the effect may seem 

 salutary ; but soon the sallow complexion, the irri- 

 table temper, and frequent accession of fever, will 

 indicate too plainly the work that is going on. 



In a country like this, perhaps more than any 

 other, where there are but few facts established in 

 the popular mind with regard to health, every one 

 voluntarily turns medical adviser ; and I believe, as 

 a general thing, the most ignorant are the most for- 

 ward in their pretences and opinions ; and nothing 

 can exceed the ridiculous absurdity often exhibited 

 by such parties upon this grave subject, with no bet- 

 ter authority for the support of their views, than 

 that they " believe so," and that is sufficient. 



It is exceedingly difficult to convince people that 

 stimulants are not conducive to health in a climate 

 where the tendency is to debility ; but such persons 



