718 
The Germ Theory and its 
[December, 
cremation as “ heathenish.” Some writers and speakers — 
not, perhaps, the most enlightened men of the day — have 
even gone so far as to declare that those whose bodies are 
thus disposed of forfeit their prospeCt of a resurrection ! A 
modern scientific traveller, whose works were pot long ago 
reviewed in the “ Journal of Science,” takes occasion to say 
that cremation might be we 11 enough for heathen nations, 
but that we have higher notions of the dignity of the human 
body. I for one must take leave to say that I see no re- 
markable dignity in putrefaction. It is, further, well known 
that the Greeks and Romans were far more attentive to the 
strength, the beauty, and especially the cleanliness of the 
human body, than are nineteen out of twenty of the inha- 
bitants of modern Europe. 
It is known that cremation is gaining ground in Italy and 
in Germany. In two recent cases it has been carried out in 
England without any attempt at official interference. But 
I am told that the practice is of doubtful legality. It has 
further been pointed out that the fanatics in whom England 
is so rich may quite conceivably demand its formal prohibi- 
tion by statute. Such a demand, if made on behalf of a 
numerous organisation, would scarcely be resisted by either 
of the great political parties. It is therefore highly important 
that the friends of the only rational and practical method of 
disposal of the dead should be prepared, and take the neces- 
sary steps to obtain legislative sanction for cremation at the 
option of a deceased person or of his friends. 
V. THE GERM THEORY AND ITS LATEST 
CONQUEST.* 
Cj$T cannot fail to have struck most thoughtful persons that 
Jjk a combined and systematic atack is being made upon 
^ the medical profession, and through it upon medical 
science itself. Poets, novelists, ethicists, ochlogogues 
have formed a most incongruous alliance with the Anti- 
* The Germ Theory of Phthisis Verified. By W. Thomson, F.R.C.S, 
Melbourne : Sands and McDougall. 
