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XXIII. On the ultimate composition of simple alimentary substances; 
with some preliminary remarks on the analysis of organized 
bodies in general. By William Prout, M.D. F. R. S. 
Read June 14, 1827. 
The present being the first of several communications on 
the same subject which I hope to have the honour of laying 
before the Royal Society, a few observations on the origin 
and object of the whole series may not be deemed irre- 
levant. 
Many years ago I published an anonymous Paper, con- 
taining some views, at that time new, connected with the 
doctrines of chemical proportions.* Though this Paper, for 
reasons which need not be here stated, was drawn up and 
published in a very hasty and imperfect manner, it attracted 
some notice ; and the views therein advanced gradually 
gained ground, and at present appear to be generally ad- 
mitted in this country. -f When this Paper was published, 
it was my intention to have pursued the subject further, but 
I soon found my progress obstructed by insuperable diffi- 
culties. The first and chief of these was the want of accurate 
data ; and the infinity of objects comprehended by chemistry 
prevented the hope of acquiring, by individual exertion, 
* Annals of Philosophy, vi. 321, and vii. in. (O. S.) The object of the second 
Paper was simply to correct some oversights in the first. 
f Dr. Thomson’s Chemistry, and his Attempt to establish the first principles of 
chemistry by experiment. Also, Dr. Henry and Mr. Brande’s Elements of 
Chemistry, &c. 
