The “Jumpers." 
249 
1879.] 
Very recently, also, my attention has been directed to 
some allied phenomena connected with a religious revival 
now in progress in a certain town in Vermont. The victims 
of this excitement roll on the floor or ground in most absurd 
and undignified attitudes ; whence they are called “ Holy 
Rollers.” Unlike the Jumpers, however, these Rollers are 
not in a permanent liability to their disorder; when the ex- 
citement is over they will spontaneously recover. Just at 
present, in the height of the public enthusiasm, they are, 
on this subject, pure automatons. In the same line are the 
cases of starving girls, hysteria, and hysterical trance, like 
that of Moilie Fancher, of Brooklyn, which is now exciting 
so much enthusiasm. I have studied a number of similar 
and allied cases, and I never share the popular prejudice 
against them. They are without volition, practically irre- 
sponsible, and to be blamed — if blamed at all — for the 
beginnings , not the endings of their disease. Like inebriates, 
they are to be treated by taking them from their home and 
friends, and giving them a radically new environment. — G. 
M. Beard, M.D., of New York. 
