REMARKS ON THE DISCUSSION ABOUT DRENCHES. 327 
lington’s, near Elkington ; and the owner has been to-day with me, 
and informed me, that, from the shepherd’s account, they appeared 
to be all doing well. 
The present is a most excellent lambing season in our neigh- 
bourhood, both as it regards the safety of the ewes and the number 
of lambs. 
REMARKS ON THE DISCUSSION ABOUT DRENCHES. 
By W. C. SPOONER, Esq., V.S., Southampton. 
ALTHOUGH it is by no means a pleasing office to interfere be- 
tween two combatants in their literary affrays, yet, perhaps, a few 
remarks on this subject may not be thrown away, and particularly 
so if taken by the opposing parties in the same spirit with which 
they are offered. Now I take it, that, if any individual offers 
his opinions to his professional brethren on any branch of practice 
or science, such opinions, more particularly if they contain any 
novel views, ought to be received at least with respect; we certainly 
should concede to the writer, even if we consider him wrong, the 
desire to benefit those he addresses. 
If these observations are just, it most imperatively behoves any 
individual who may choose to enter the lists in opposition to the 
first writer to use every courtesy towards his opponent, and by 
all means to avoid mistating his remarks. His object ought not to 
be to show up his opponent to ridicule or scorn, but to endeavour 
to convince him that he is in error ; and a knowledge of human 
nature will teach him that this can be best accomplished by mild 
and gentlemanly arguments. 
“ Men should be taught as though you taught them not, 
And things unknown propos’d as things forgot.” 
These considerations should particularly be borne in mind, be- 
cause on the temper of the first reply depends the character of 
the discussion that may succeed. He who gives the first blow, has 
no right to complain if he receives still harder ones in return. 
Now, for my own part, I read Professor Stewart’s first letter to a 
Student, headed, “Beware of Drenches,” with considerable plea- 
sure. I did so, because I agreed with him in much, though not all, 
of what he said on the subject; and I felt disposed to concede to him 
the merit of being the first to put students and others on their 
guard as to the danger attending, and the necessary caution to be 
observed in, the administration of draughts. On this subject I 
think authors and lecturers have been culpably negligent. All, I 
think, must acknowledge that Mr. Stewart’s object must have 
